racing promotion monthly · p22 faxable credential application, vegas, indy, daytona p24 the...

RPM@VegasIn The Books,

Positive Feedback

Page 6RPM@Indy:

Updated Scheduleof Sessions

Page 6RPM@Indy

Lysakowski AddedAs Presenter

Page 21Dallara TourSpecial ITAR

Clearance Required

Page 25ARPY BallotNominate Now!

Page 22Workshop

CredentialsFAXable App

Racing Promotion MonthlyThe Idea Newsletter For Auto Racing PromotersProducer Of The Annual RPM Promoters Workshops

Indy, Daytona, Hotels P14, Credential App P22, Regional ARPY Ballot P25

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P5 Promoters Positive About RPM@VegasP6 Welcome New ReadersP6 Updated RPM@Indy Session ScheduleP8 Through The Lens: RPM@Vegas In PicturesP9 Las Vegas, Travel & Entertainment AdvantageP9 Workshops Session Preview, Building Big EventsP10 Mike Lysakowski Added To RPM@Indy RosterP10 Workshops Session Preview: Adapting To The New FacebookP11 Vegas: Said To Be One Of The “Best Ever.”P11 Workshops Session Preview: Annual Case Law SummaryP11 Workshops Session Preview: Digital Timing & ScoringP11 Workshops Preview, Partnering With Sponsors For ProfitP12 Legalert: Drug and Alcohol PolicyP12 Thomas’ Event Building Ideas Impress P12 INEX Updates, Session Added @Vegas, @DaytonaP13 Profile, Tom Helfrich, Regional Promoter of the YearP14 Workshops, Dates, Places, SchedulesP15 Profile, Howard Tiedt, Auto Racing Promoter of the YearP16 Exhibitors: Directory Of Services For PromotersP21 RPM@Indy Update, Dallara DetailsP22 FAXable Credential Application, Vegas, Indy, DaytonaP24 The History of the ARPY Award, Honor Roll of ARPYs, P25 FAX Ballot, Regional Auto Racing Promoter of the Year

Racing Promotion Monthly The Idea Newsletter For Auto Racing Promoters

Presenter of the

Auto Racing Promoter of the Year

Awards Sponsored By

Charlotte Motor Speedway...

Producer of the Annual

RPM Promoters Workshops

Issue 45.11Volume 45, Number 11

On The Cover...

A full pit area of Racesaver sprint cars,

Eagle (NE) Raceway, June 2014.

(RPM Photo)

The voice of short track owners and promoters, fostering cooperation, communication and the exchange of expertise.

This Month In RPM

EDITOR: Stewart Doty FOUNDER: Stew ReamerPHONE 715-536-1067 FAX 715-536-3616 MAIL: PO Box 406, Merrill, WI 54452E-MAIL ADDRESS: [email protected]

Copyright 2015, Racing Promotion Monthly.

EDITORIAL DISCLAIMER: The RPM E-Letter, Racing Promotion Monthly, InsideGroove, and Websites are digests of ideas provided to the operators of auto racing facilities. Published material is informational in nature and is adapted from many sources. The editor, publisher, parent corporation, the publication's sponsors and all their heirs and assigns, assume no responsibility for the practicality of the ideas and information appearing herein. Persons using or adapting ideas or procedures from the E-Letter and RPM do so of their own freewill, and assume all risk for incidents which may occur because of, or despite, the adaptation or use of such ideas and procedures. Editorial content and views

expressed are those of the editors, and do not necessarily reflect opinions of the newsletter's sponsors.

PRIVACY POLICY: RPM does not sell subscriber information. When promoters and other readers provide RPM with their mailing address, telephone numbers, cell phone numbers, or e-mail addresses, for any reason, they are used only by RPM for communicating with subscribers. Data are not sold or distributed to third parties. RPM does, however, provide exhibitors with a list of mailing addresses and phone numbers for tracks registered for the Workshops, a service offered as part of commercial registration for more than 20 years.

Contact:

[email protected]

P: 715.536.1067

F: 715-536-3616

Promoters Positive About RPM@Vegas;Vegas Standout Lysakowski Added At Indy

The Promoters’ Front PageMore Ideas, More Cars, More Fans

Viva Las Vegas: It wouldn’t be Las Vegas without the King. Elvis tribute artist and IMCA Modified racer Joey Franklin opened the

Workshop with renditions of the The King’s most well-known songs.

(Lysakowski Photo)

5

Viva Las Vegas!

Overnight ratings are in, and they are up! RPM@Vegas proved a popular change. We didn’t know what to expect when we made the decision to relocate the western workshops to Las Vegas, Nevada, across the I-15 freeway from the site of RPM’s two earlier Las Vegas gatherings in 1977 and 1978 at the Circus Circus. Our midsummer decision to change venues after 30 years at the Eldorado in Reno to the just-off-the-strip Palace Station took almost everyone by surprise. Change is difficult, and everyone was so accustomed to going to the Eldorado. They had their favorite rooms, restaurants, games, gathering places, and they knew the airport well. The dates were indelibly written in their off-season schedule. The Eldorado treated us as though we were part of the Carano family, and your editor, and promoters appreciated that.

Business Conditions, Schedules Affect

RPM

While it might not be apparent, it’s never easy to produce a Workshop in new facility and as this is written we are three weeks from working with another at a new site--the Indianapolis Motor

Speedway. Initial reaction to our Las Vegas announcement last July was either strongly positive or strongly negative, at least among the longtime attendees, it remained that way. But, among those who attended the first time, it was all positive. Las Vegas does have its attraction for people! A few promoters and longtime attendees were conspicuous in their absence, and we suspect from our phone conversations that in a few cases their absence was more than a “schedule conflict.” In the defense of several western groups and tracks who did not attend, they were (and are still racing as this is written) and we reluctantly calculated that into our decision, as uncomfortable as it made us to do so. (Our apologies to the BCRA and the NorCal dirt sprint tracks.) We did not expect last-minute racing schedule changes to accommodate our change, especially when races are long-established dates. We get that part. We missed them and hope they’ll join us elsewhere. We also know of one or two promoters who did not join us because, as has been the case now for a half decade, business was not good enough in 2015 to

(See RPM@Vegas, P6)

Welcome Readers

Welcome to the Racing Promotion Monthly promoters’ community. As an RPM reader, you benefit from more than 40 seasons of experience, expertise, and ideas, proven by successful short track people. This newsletter and the RPM Promoters Workshops produced by Racing Promotion Monthly are the point of contact for any promoter looking for ideas, advice, feedback, or a gateway to tap into the resources and collected experience of more than 1,000 promoters, from 107 Workshops, and a 45-year knowledge base of over 500 issues of this newsletter. If you are a newcomer just getting your feet wet in the complex business of track operation and race event promotion, looking for others you can bounce ideas off, trying to sift fact from myth, we are available to talk with you seven days a week and will facilitate or answer every inquiry. Plan to attend one of the three RPM Promoters Workshops next winter. The Workshops and this newsletter are time well-spent that will boost your attendance and strengthen your bottom line. Enjoy this newsletter and the others that follow. Follow RPM on Twitter, Facebook, or LinkedIn. Subscribe to the RPM Newsletter RSS feed, and you’ll not miss a single update. Thank you for reading and best of luck with your endeavors!

Herman On Stage: Promoters can relate to TV commentator, short track barnstormer, track owner,

Kenny Wallace,who set a positive and upbeat tone for the meeting sharing his thoughts on the sport

and track ownership. (Lysakowski Photo)

6

(RPM@Vegas, From P5)

enable them to spend on the trip. They surely are not alone. We get that part as well, and know they’ll be back after they weather the storm.

“Race Night” Change, A Risk, But Up

22%

Working with promoters and observing the industry for two decades has taught us a few things. Among them this: that our change of place and date is no different from a track changing its race night, and our many years at this keyboard have revealed that race-night changes often do not turn out well. Most lead to the loss of the base crowd. We were fortunate at RPM@Vegas, and this was a great relief. Back in our offices now with attendance counted overall, the Workshop was up 22% from 2014. It’s hard to argue with

that number which becomes even more telling when one understands that the overall up was counted without a dozen or more formerly Reno-regular tracks who could not, or did not, attend.

Proves It Was Time For A Change

Our increase would seem to indicate it was clearly time for a change, and the gathering gives us something to build on--a practical work around for the attendance-depressing business climate in California and other parts of the West where for the last several years, and in 2015 as well, many tracks remained without certain plans of operation and signed leases, and thus no one to credential themselves for a late-season Workshop. It’s a problem throughout the country affecting Workshop attendance at

(See Vegas, P9)

Revised RPM@Indy ScheduleDecember 9, 2015

7:30-9:30 a.m. Workshops Guest Services Desk Open

9:00 a.m. Workshop Convenes, Keynote remarks, welcomes, followed by...

An Open Forum Discussion, 2015 Season Recap: Promoters, participants, panelists, and Workshops moderators capsulize 2015, discussing tech, car classes, car counts, promotions, ticket sales, summing up the season. Want to compare results? Here’s your chance.

11:00 a.m. The View From The Chigger Patch: Joyce

Standridge, journalist, driver’s wife, car owner, pit crew member, track employee, and racing fan talks with promoters about the issues faced by low-buck racing families and the meaning they have for the sport.

12:00 p.m. complimentary lunch on premises

1:00 p.m. Partnering With Sponsors, Mark Gundrum,

ARCA, The ARCA VP Business Development, and Corporate Partnerships, returns to share with promoters practical sponsorship partnering strategies.

1:45 p.m. 39th Auto Racing Promoter of the Year, Gary

Howe: Gary Howe’s path to ARPY is a testament to the culture of the Workshops. He thought he knew it all, and did things his way, but now credits the promoter community and the Workshops for enabling him to become the success he is now.

2:30 p.m. Communicating To The Thick Slice: Mike

Lysakowski, vividly illustrates common marketing gaffes in his presentation “Marketing To The Thick Slice,” explaining how promoters communicate the wrong advertising and publicity messages to the wrong audiences.

3:15 p.m. The Crate Nation, Bill Martens, Chevrolet

Performance: reviews 12 years of sealed-engine experience asking, “Is It Time To Rewind,” summarizing the lessons learned and the present path to success with sealed spec engines. Martens will update promoters on Chevrolet Performance’s program for 602, 604, and CT525 engines.

4:00p.m. New Facebook Strategies: Kristin

Swartzlander, DirtyMouth Communications, sums up changes to the Facebook platform and their effect on promoters. Swartzlander who has worked with pro sports, as well as tracks, and teams, will explain how

promoters can increase engagement despite the changes and build an audience they own.

4:45 p.m. Promoters Prime Panel, More Cars, More Fans,

In 2016! Promoters, participants, panelists, and Workshops moderators compare and share thinking and plans for the 2016 season. After analyzing 2015, what will stay the same and what will change--they’ll talk class trends, tech issues, schedules and race night changes, promotions abandoned, new or renewed, and more. This session can help you decide your course of action.

5:30 p.m. Workshop Adjourns

6:30 p.m. RPM After Hours, tour the “The Dallara IndyCar Factory,” the U.S. headquarters and manufacturing base of Dallara Automobili S.p.A., the designer and builder of the cars competing Verizon IndyCar Series, and the Indy Lights Series, followed by a social hour at Lino’s Coffee in the Dallara facility.

56-H Loomis StreetManchester, CT 06042Phone: (860) 646-9646Email: [email protected]

Baltimore2931 Industrial Park Drive Finksburg, MD 21048Phone: (410) 833-2061Email: [email protected]

Pittsburgh110 South Pike Road, #207Sarver, PA 16055Phone: (724) 360-8000Email: [email protected]

1933 Staunton TurnpikeParkersburg, WV 26104Phone: (304) 428-5000Email: [email protected]

Springfield3886 E. State Route 54Springfield, IL 62707Phone: (217) 522-1955Email: [email protected]

Indianapolis4155 N. 1000 E., Ste A, Wally Parks Dr.Brownsburg, IN 46112Phone: (317) 858-1234Email: [email protected]

Plymouth1801 Jim Neu Drive Plymouth, IN 46563Phone: (574) 936-8344Email: [email protected]

21601 John Deere LaneRogers, MN 55374Phone: (763) 428-8780Email: [email protected] www.hoosiertirenorth.com

AsphaltP.O. Box 537Welcome, NC 27374Phone: (336) 731-6100Email: [email protected]

Dirt OvalP.O. Box 1437Clinton, TN 37717Phone: (865) 457-9888Email: [email protected]

Road & DragP.O. Box 6080Maryville, TN 37802Phone: (865) 984-3232Email: road&[email protected]

3801 W. Pawnee, Suite 200 Wichita, KS 67213Phone: (316) 945-4000Email: [email protected]

Nebraska12252 N 153rd CircleBennington, NE 68007Phone: (402) 281-9700 [email protected]

103 Gross Road, Bldg. AMesquite, TX 75149Phone: (972) 289-RACE (7223)Email: [email protected]

2608 E. CaliforniaFresno, CA 93721Phone: (559) 485-4512Email: [email protected]

117-119 Cushman RoadSt. Catherines, Ontario, Canada L2M 6S9Phone: (905) 685-3184Email: [email protected]

1733 Maryland AvenueNiagara Falls, NY 14305Phone: (716) 285-7502Email: usasales@bicknellracingproducts.comwww.bicknellracingproducts.com

5601-45 ST Leduc, Alberta, Canada T9E 7B1Phone: (780) 986-7223Email: [email protected]

“TIRES DESIGNED FOR CHAMPIONS” ®

65465 SR 931, Lakeville, IN 46536 (574) 784-3152 www.hoosiertire.com

(Upper Left) Marketing expert Mike Lysakowski was deemed by many to be the stand-out presenter at Las Vegas as he simultaneously wowed and frightened promoters vividly illustrating their advertising errors. (Upper Center) Roger Hadan, Jim Naylor, and Scott Schweitzer reviewed their 2015 seasons and contrasted them with 2014. (Upper Right) Elvis, AKA Joey Franklin, croons to Johna Beach, Kenai Fairgrounds Speedway, Alaska. (Lower Left) TV commentator and racer Kenny Wallace shared his enthusiasm for short track racing with promoters. (Lower Center) Journalist Joyce Standridge offered thoughtful guidance reminding promoters that their bread and butter drivers and teams park out back in the “the chigger patch” and are worth looking after. (Lower Right) The exhibit area was busy throughout the Workshop as 25 companies showcased products and services for promoters. (Photography by Nadine Strauss and MIke Lysakowski.)

Through The Lens: RPM@Vegas 2015

9

(Vegas, From P6)

all our locations, but has been acute in the West because for so long the Western meeting enjoyed the “base-crowd” support of dozens of long-established, but now retired, promoters, and their staff officials. If leases were signed and plans were certain, we could at least market a Workshop to someone with interest, but we can’t market to unknown new promoters. It’s an unfortunate reality of the time of year that deals now get done with fairboards and of the times we are in.

Geo, Travel, Entertainment Advantage

We haven’t had time yet to analyze our geographic attendance, but strongly suspect that our year-over-year growth from Reno last year is the result of promoters from outside the West sampling a Workshop in Las Vegas. This potential was the primary reason we felt we could gamble on the change. Everyone found it easier and cheaper to get to Las Vegas than to Reno. Flights are plentiful, especially red eyes with good connections that enabled expeditious trips minimizing time away and trip expense. Many flew nonstop from a surprising array of origins, but even those who did not find fewer intermediate stops and more attractive travel times. We heard reports of folks taking in the strip and Las Vegas shows, before, during, and after the Workshop--which is all good. We arrived in the Sin City expecting a 50/50 response to our site and date change, but surprisingly found few who complained (at least to us), and several promoters who confessed they we were uncertain they would like the change but now with firsthand experience now endorse it.

What Next You Ask?

We’ll continue to analyze what we’ve heard,

we’ll review the surveys completed at the Workshop, we’ll talk with promoters and sponsors throughout the Winter, and we’ll make plans for next year. When and where we’ll do next year’s Western meeting is not presently certain. Despite all its advantages, Vegas is a tough place to do business--high in cost and limited in available dates. Many promoters at Vegas, and in other conversations, asked whether we could be in Las Vegas in December on our traditional date the first week of the month, and that unfortunately is impossible. The insular racing world seems largely unaware of something called “Rodeo.” Las Vegas--at least the hotels and casinos with easy access to McCarran Airport and the Strip, an absolute requirement for RPM--is at capacity while it hosts the National Finals Rodeo from Thanksgiving through Christmas, and will not talk with RPM about accommodations at a cost promoters can afford, never mind RPM. But, mid-November dates remain available, not unsurprisingly at Palace Station who would welcome promoters back next fall, and we believe at other properties as well. We’ll sift through proposals and talk with potential venues and see what opportunities can be found. We’ll strive to announce next fall’s date and place at the RPM@Daytona Workshop or shortly thereafter.

“The Best Workshop I Can Remember!”

So said a longtime observer of what we do. We concur, and all credit goes to our presenters. (Seriously--no hyperbole! We recognize a few readers are a bit jaded about (See Vegas, P10)

Travel, Entertainment Advantage

A Great Privilege: As the 100th Running of the Indianapolis 500 draws nearer, it will be our privilege to gather promoters December 9, at Indianapolis Motor Speedway, the guests of Doug Boles, track president. It’s not too late to join us. (Speedway Photo)

The View From The Chigger Patch

Joyce Standridge joins us at all three Workshops. Joyce is an auto racing journalist, driver’s wife, car owner, pit crew member, track employee, and primarily racing fan. She is an accomplished author, collaborating with Ken Shrader and Kenny Wallace on autobiographies. Joyce is a national award winning writer for Speedway Illustrated. In her “The View From the Chigger Patch,” she’ll talk with promoters about the issues faced by low-buck racing families and the meaning they have for the sport as a whole.

RPM@Vegas, RPM@IndyRPM@Daytona

Session Preview

RPM@Vegas, RPM@Daytona

Building Your Own Marquee Events

Alabama track owner/promoter Billy Thomas joins us to share lessons he’s learned building big events at East Alabama Motor Speedway, the 37-year-old Alabama State Championships, the 41-year-old National 100, the Bama Bash and the Jimmy Thomas Memorial. Thomas is a believer in profitable, risk-averse, self-promoted special events and one of the best at increasing event-related revenue streams of all kinds. This promises to be some of the best practical advice ever heard at the Workshops.

Adapting To The New Facebook

Kristin Swartzlander, DirtyMouth Communications, sums up changes taking place on the Facebook platform and their effect on promoters. Swartzlander who has worked with pro sports, as well as tracks and teams, will explain how Facebook is changing and how the bottom has fallen out on the 'old way' of using it. She’ll explain how promoters can increase engagement despite the changes, and build an audience they own, so that the ever-evolving Facebook cannot continue to block you from the audience you have built.

RPM@Vegas, RPM@Indy, RPM@Daytona

Session Preview

10

(Vegas, From P9)

such claims, but you can ask folks who were there.) We were fortunate this winter to gather an outstanding group of promoters and presenters who offered attendees thebest--most candid and factual--advice we have heard in our meeting room in a long time. Every one of them resisted the temptation to exaggerate, and self-aggrandize. Hopefully, gone are the days of podium occupants exaggerating ticket sales by double. They were candid about the present state of the industry, the challenges it faces, and were so without being negative or defeatist. We heard more strong advice and actionable ideas for resurrecting or improving operations at this Workshop than at any of the previous 49 we’ve produced.

Standout Lysakowski Added At Indy

He was unsure at Vegas how he’d be received when he told promoters in no uncertain terms where they err and how they’re wasting their marketing investment selling the wrong “product” to the wrong market, but the audience wore their big-boy pants and took his brutal honesty well, giving him the highest marks of the meeting. Mike Lysakowski vividly showed promoters why images of people holding $10,000 checks, aerials of packed speedways, and photos of winners in unzipped, dirty driver’s suits, sell no new tickets, and can be a turn off to prospective new fans looking for family entertainment. His presentation alone, taken to heart, paid for the trip for everyone in the room, if they’ll admit to it, and the audience was surprisingly contrite. We’ve added Lysakowski to our RPM@Indy lineup, and it’s been our plan that he’ll join us at RPM@Daytona during Speedweek as well. There is no more timely presentation among those in our lineup this year as promoters

battle for the hearts and minds of new fans in cluttered marketplace.

Stands In For Risk Management Session

We subbed Mike for our customary risk management session at Indy after our stalwart Workshops attorney Don Anspaugh found himself committed to an unchangeable trial date. We apologize in advance to those who looked forward to hearing Anspaugh, and we’ll welcome his return next year at Indy--even Speedweek should he care to join us.

Elvis In The House

Vegas without Elvis would be like pancakes without strawberries. Elvis tribute artist and IMCA racer Joey Franklin helped us welcome promoters and kicked off the meeting singing the King’s well-known hit songs. Afterward, Franklin revealed himself as serious short track enthusiast, and impressed promoters with vivid memories of his childhood at Flat Rock (MI) and Paducah (KY) Speedways, of Flat Rock champion Joy Fair, and the Mississippi Flyer Jerry Inman and his Jig-A-Lo chassis, much to the surprise, and pride of promoter/presenter Billy Thomas who as a young man welded up Inman’s chassis in his father’s shop at Phenix City Alabama.

Herman On Stage

Good fortune smiled on the Workshops when we discovered that Kenny Wallace would compete in the Duel in the Desert in Longdale (OK) Speedway track owner Jesse Hoskin’s modified. Wallace keeps a busy schedule and was it not for the confluence of circumstances we might not have been fortunate enough to have him join us and share his love of short track racing his passion for the sport generally. He shared a few war stories, talked of his

(See Vegas, P11)

Lysakowski Added At Indy

Practical Advice, Profitable Ideas: Promoters called out second-generation promoter Billy

Thomas, East Alabama Motor Speedway, as a highlight of RPM@Vegas after he shared details

and numbers helping them plan how they can limit risk and increase profit by organically

building their own big events. He’ll share again at RPM@Daytona.

(Lysakowski Photo)

Communicating To The Thick Slice

Communicator Mike Lysakowski will share samples he’s accumulated as he coaches promoters to sell racing to what he calls the “thick slice,” of the pie chart--potential ticket buyers not now regular fans. He’ll explain "What NOT to do" in print ads, schedule brochures, websites, and Facebook pages, and talk with promoters about the importance of understanding the viewpoint of the target audience showing where promoters often target the wrong audience with the wrong message.


11

(Vegas, From P10)

concerns for the sport and offered cautionary advice about the current circumstances racing faces. “As NASCAR goes, so goes, the sport,”Wallace told promoters, adding it’s time that we all focus on what’s good with auto racing, not what’s wrong with NASCAR, the Chase format, or other issues troubling segments of motorsport. Ken Shrader who also raced the Duel made a cameo appearance the first morning, proving again, you can never know who might wander into a Workshop.

Returning To The Meat Of The Workshop

Also given high marks by those in attendance were other presenters. It was wonderful to become reacquainted with journalist Joyce Standridge and longtime sprint car, late model, and modified driver, husband Rick. We hadn’t seen them to far too long, and it was a privilege to present her to our audience. Joyce was intimidated by the prospect of following Elvis and Wallace (who introduced Standridge as his therapist), but her quietly thoughtful advice to promoters was popular urging them to pay greater attention to the needs of racers who park in “The Chigger Patch”--the racers who do not rent slabs and end up out back in the infrequently mown corner of the pits. One of her slides asked, “Why must we always rise to the travelers? They are guests at our track, why shouldn’t they come down to our level?”

Gary Howe Sums It All Up

ARPYs Gary and Donna Howe shared how they are dealing with a 30% drop in attendance at Kalamazoo Speedway, an experience they share with other promoters who would be honest about their current circumstances. Blow hards in the pits, blow hards on the web, even blow hards in the Workshops audience, might find fault with the Howe’s expose‘ but they courageously shared with promoters what the times have done to their

operation and what they will do in the attempt to recover. It was a class presentation from deserving Promoters of the Year, genuinely concerned for their operation and colleagues operations throughout the sport, and they offered an hour full of ideas any track could use.

New Faces From Old Places

Among first time attendees were Jim and John Tomson, new owners of Lernerville (PA) Speedway, Chad Wagner, from one of our favorite tracks, Tri-City (PA) Speedway, Mari and Ron Melcher new owners of U.S. 30 (NE) Speedway and new promoters at Albion (NE) Speedway (yes, they jumped in with both feet at two tracks, but they are not complete newbies as Mari is the daughter of Sam Ganskow, U.S. 30’s former owner), Jerry & Marge Pospisil, of the new Off Road (NE) Speedway, and the Nelson family and Erin Streicher from Spokane County Raceway. We hope many more new promoters do as these folks did, making most of the opportunity to equip themselves with the tools and information to make their first or second season the success it can be.

Long Timers & ARPYs Too

We enjoyed talking with Ron Bennett, for 57 years the owner of Holland (NY) Speedway, a man who has missed few Workshops since the beginning and valuable advisor to RPM and the industry. A platoon of ARPYs was in house, including Jody Deery, the remarkable 91-year-young co-founder of the Workshops, back out West after a year’s absence, her son Chuck Deery, C-Ray Hall, Joe Doellefeld, Roger Hadan, Cary Agajanian, Nadine & Bob Strauss, and the Howes. It’s always great to chat with Missouri veteran Randy Mooneyham, with Chilibowl and ASCS headman Emmett Hahn and his bride Wokeeta, and to meet the future generations of the Hahn family.

(See Vegas, P12)

Said To Be, “One Of Best Ever.”

39th Auto Racing Promoter of the Year

RPM readers selected Gary Howe, Kalamazoo Speedway, as 39th ARPY. His path to ARPY is a testament to the culture of the Workshops. Howe admits that when he attended his first Workshop, he thought he knew it all, and the speakers at our podiums were all wet. He returned home, did things his way, made the mistakes new promoters make, and created years of hardship for himself, but now credits the promoters and the Workshops for enabling him to become the success he is now. Howe will share pearls of wisdom gathered along the way.



Session Preview

Session Preview

Latest From Our Legal Eagles

Cary Agajanian, Paul Tetreault, and Don Ornelas of the law firm Agajanian, McFall, Weiss, Tetreault, & Crist, will summarize significant case law and regulation events from the year and answer promoters’ questions on matters of law, regulations, ordinances, corporate structure, and more. An hour or more of pro-bono legal advice essential to all promoters.

Partner With Sponsors For Profit

Mark Gundrum, VP Business Development, and Corporate Partnerships, ARCA Racing Series, returns to share with promoters practical partnering strategies proven in business relationships between ARCA and its sponsors. Gundrum began his career working at short tracks and later worked for Rex Robbins at ASA. He accumulated a wealth of practical experience and street smarts. Bring a pen and notebook, a tape recorder, or your tablet, or smartphone for this one. You’ll never remember everything he’ll cover if you don’t.

RPM@Indy, RPM@Daytona

Digital Timing & Scoring Pitfalls

Liz Fredrickson, Chief Scorer, NASCAR K&N Pro Series East, anchors our electronic timing & scoring session. Now commonplace, the high-tech systems, like all technology, come with advantages but are not without challenges and Fredrickson has dealt with all of them--as they say, in real time, during events. She and colleagues will share a few war stories but also wisdom and experience that will help you make your towers run more smoothly.


LegalertInsurance Policy Question

DISCLAIMER: While these legal questions have been researched, we do not represent this as legal advice. Laws vary. Readers should consult with local counsel in all matters. RPM assumes no responsibility for actions taken because of, or despite, answers appearing herein.

YOU CAN HELP! If you’re are involved in a legal challenge of any kind, or if you know of, or hear of, any challenges involving racing operations, or challenges to other sports or attractions that could threaten motorsports, call or write RPM editorial offices.

Q: Insurance terms confuse me. How do

Participant Legal Liability and General

Liability differ?

A: Your racing “policy” is really a combination of liability "coverages" combined into one insurance package. Besides, Participant Legal Liability and General Liability, racing insurance might also include coverage for Official Vehicles, Errors & Omissions coverage, participant accident insurance, and Liquor Liability. The easiest way to explain the difference between "General Liability (GL)" and "Participant Legal Liability (PLL)" is where coverage is provided--whether it’s in "restricted areas" or non-restricted areas at race tracks. Also understand that liability insurance provides bodily injury and property damage coverage for claims that arise out of the negligence of the track operations. The PLL coverage portion covers a track for Bodily Injury claims brought by participants in the restricted area. The GL portion gives coverage for Bodily Injury and Property Damage claims in non-restricted areas. Generally, these are called Spectator Liability claims, but can also occur on non-racing days involving visitors and invited guests to the track.

12

(Vegas, From P12)

Chevrolet Brass Stopped By

With great pleasure we introduced Chevrolet performance execs Steve Walczak and Curt Collins. They were in town for the Duel and visited us. We hope we impressed upon them how important 602,604, and CT525 sealed spec engines have become to our segment of motorsports. Californian Jeff James, Chevrolet Performance’s man in the west and Hawaii, subbed for Bill Martens who stayed back East for a family emergency. Walczak and Collins were complimentary of what we do, and it reassures us to know that the upper echelon at Chevrolet Performance is taking note of the unit sales that short track racing generates.

Thomas Opens Eyes

Alabamian Billy Thomas opened some eyes with his revealing presentation on the money to be made with homemade special events. Known to Workshops attendees primarily as a dirt-prep guy, he showed his business side in graphic detail and everyone was taking notes as quickly as they could write. He encouraged promoters to look beyond booked-in series and to build their own multi-day early and post-season races encompassing local classes, classes of all levels, and showed them how to promote and increase incremental income offering fans and racers everything from parking to branded food products. Thomas will join us at RPM@Daytona for an encore.

Car Counts, Facebook, Timing & Scoring

We do our best to hit the highlights in these reports but always encounter the limits of our space in the newsletter. There were compliments aplenty for Gregg McKarns “Concrete Car Count Ideas” session, a summary from 41 tracks nationwide of ideas for increasing and retaining car counts and increasing entrant satisfaction.

McKarns will again join our slate of presenters come RPM@Daytona. Kristin Swartzlander, DirtyMouth Communications, demystified the changes to the Facebook platform showing promoters how their use of Facebook must continue to evolve with the ever-changing social platform. She simplified a confusing topic making it accessible to promoters who possess neither the time, nor the hands-on experience with the medium, equipping them to set actionable social media goals and enabling them to better understand the input from employees and family members who assist with social media.

Some Numerology & Gratitude

When introducing Jim Stannard from IMCA who welcomed promoters to Las Vegas and Duel Weekend, we described a fortuitous numerological coincidence. IMCA will soon finish its 100th year of sanctioning racing, a first, and distinction unmatched in motorsports for the Iowa-based organization which describes itself as the largest and oldest sanctioning body in American motorsports. NASCAR might have Madison Avenue, but by membership and event numbers offered by Stannard, there is little doubt about the claim of IMCA’s size, and the longevity is irrefutable. Our sport is in the debt of Keith Knaack for keeping IMCA alive 25 years ago when it was moribund and to Kathy and Brett Root for building IMCA into what it is today. Coincidentally we will convene three weeks from this writing at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway as they promote the 100th Running of the Indianapolis 500 Mile Race. This is another remarkable milestone as no other race has been conducted 100 times in the history of motorsport, never mind at the same venue. We consider ourselves privileged to be associated with two such organizations and to have their support for the 43rd Annual RPM Promoters Workshops Series.

(Continued, P21)

Thomas’ Event Ideas Impress

UpdatesNeighbor Problems: At the behest of neighbors, local authorities are troubling Lime Rock (CT) Park, one of the nation’s historic road race tracks, attempting to exercise greater control, if not take control of operations, at the 1.5-mile road course. The track already is unable to race on Sunday by virtue of previous regulatory agreements dating back to 1957. Reportedly, it is all yet another case of residential encroachment by folks who knew when they moved nearby that the track had been there since 1957... And, At Bedford (PA)

Speedway: Joe Padula and the fairboard from which he leases, are faced with an expensive defense against a Federal lawsuit filed by one neighbor who objects to dust from the fairgrounds track leaving the premises. The fairgrounds, along Route 30 in the central PA city, has been there since 1936 and home to the Great Bedford Fair... And, At Tri-City (MI) Speedway: Steve Puvalowski continues to make the most of the late season, making improvements to walkways, walls, buildings at his 3/8-mile dirt track within to the paved track. But most interesting to us was his Facebook post that mentioned constructing new caps over mine shafts that underlie the speedway, the first improvement of its kind we had heard of at a speedway.

13

IntroducingRegional Auto Racing Promoters of The Year

Tom HelfrichTri-State (IN) Speedway

Readers nominated second-generation promoter Tom Helfrich as their Regional Auto Racing Promoter of the Year twice in succession in 1997, 1998. Why the outspoken but deserving promoter with three decades experience at the 1/4-mile, high-banked dirt oval near Evansville, IN, hasn’t been nominated since is puzzling. Tri-State is one of the region’s enduring operations known for good track prep and excellent racing, but also among promoters for Helfrich’s commonsense approach to track operation.

www.kandkinsurance.com

David Laber 816-295-1855Donna Dinius260-459-5551David Laber 816-295-1855Bianca Bird260-459-5738

Steve Sinclair260-459-5714Kathy Rhoades260-459-5168Steve Sinclair260-459-5714Toni Fries260-459-5126

Kevin Cismowski260-459-5679Kerri Hamilton260-459-5773Kevin Cismowski260-459-5679Lori Tschantz260-459-5739

Two Popular Workshops Forums

2015 Season Recap, An Open Forum

Discussion: Promoters and Workshops moderators capsulize 2015 and share their analysis of the 2015 season, discussing tech, car class dynamics, car counts, successful and unsuccessful promotions, ticket sales peaks and valleys, and more, attempting to sum up an overall picture of the 2015 season. How was your season? Looking for benchmarks? Was it just your track, or are there others like yours? Want to compare results? Here’s your chance.

Do You Want More Cars, More Fans, In

2016? Promoters and Workshops moderators compare and share thinking and plans for the 2016 season. After analyzing 2015, what will stay the same and what will change? What worked in 2015? What will be kept in 2016? They’ll talk class trends, tech issues, whether schedules and race nights will change, promotions they’ll implement, or abandon, new or renewed ticket promotions, and more. Especially at Vegas which gives you 12 extra weeks to prepare for the new session this session can help you make the choices you contemplate.


Session Preview

14

43rd Annual RPM Promoters Workshops Series

RPM@Daytona

February 14-16, 2016

RPM@Indy

December 9, 2015

RPM@VegasNovember 11-13, 2015

RPM@Vegas Official Hotel: PALACE STATION HOTEL & CASINO, 2411 West Sahara Ave., Las Vegas, NV. Standard Tower Rooms, $34.99 Monday-Thursday, $84.99 Friday, Saturday; and standard Courtyard Rooms $24.99 Monday-Thursday, $54.99 Friday, Saturday, triple or quad occupancy rates are higher. Rates are subject to a $9.99 service fee per night and local room tax at prevailing rate. Reservation cutoff is 10/17/2015, or upon block sellout. Reservations: (800) 634-3101, and ask for offer code “PCIRPM” to receive the RPM Promoters Workshops room rate.

RPM@Indy Official Hotels: MICROTEL INN & SUITES, Indianapolis Airport, 5815 Rockville Rd., Indianapolis, IN 46224. Hotel direct reservations: 317-247-9703. Special Workshops Group Rate: $59.95/night, plus tax, Reference “RPM Promoters Workshop” when calling.

SLEEP INN & SUITES, Downtown Indianapolis 1244 West 16th St., Indianapolis, IN 46202 Hotel direct reservations: 317-653-1854, Web: www.sleepinnindy.com/hotel/in312 Special Group Rate: $89.95/night. Reference “RPM Promoters Workshop” when calling.

RPM@Daytona Official Hotel: HILTON DAYTONA BEACH OCEAN WALK VILLAGE Official Workshops hotel and meeting site: 100 N. Atlantic Ave., Daytona Beach, FL, Hilton Hotels reservations: 866-536-8477, Hotel direct reservations: 386-254-8200 (9a-5p weekdays). Special Group Rate: $139/night, Saturday-Tuesday, Reference “RPM Promoters Workshops” when calling. www.daytonahilton.com

Event Schedule

Pre-Registration, Exhibit Set-Up, Welcome Reception,

November 11, 2015, 4:30-9:30 p.m.

Sessions: November 12, 2015, 8:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.

Sessions: November 13, 2015, 8:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.

Event Schedule


February 14, 2016, 4:30-9:30 p.m.

Sessions: February 15, 2016, 8:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.

Sessions: February 16, 2016, 8:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.

Event Schedule


December 9, 2015, 7:30-9:30 a.m.

Sessions: December 9, 2015, 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.

15

www.kandkinsurance.com

Racing Promotion Monthly readers selected the suburban Chicago promoter as the 7th Auto Racing Promoter of the Year in 1982. Second-generation promoter Tiedt operated Santa Fe (IL) Speedway at the site of Santa Fe Park, a horse track built by his father Frederick Tiedt in 1892, and was widely respected among peers for his solid operation that hosted weekly racing for late models and supporting classes and special events for series such as the World of Outlaws. Tiedt is deceased, and his family sold the property for development in 1999.

Howard TiedtARPY 1982

Third Workshop, The 100th Running

When we convene at Indianapolis Motor Speedway for our third RPM@Indy Workshop, the historic running of the 100th Indianapolis 500--the longest continuously presented race meet in motorsports will be six months away Doug Boles, president of the Speedway, the Hulman George family, and the staff of Indianapolis Motor Speedway want to make you welcome, and help you to get to know their tradition. They’ve invited us to help them celebrate the 100th running of “The Greatest Spectacle In Racing.” As you are seated at the Workshop, you’ll look out at the front straight away below, and on the yard of bricks. You’ll feel the tradition. You’ll be surrounded by the history. And if RPM does its job well, you’ll share and compare with colleagues, and depart at day’s end with valuable practical ideas that will increase your car counts and sell more tickets in 2016. What could be better!

Session Preview

16

ADMISSION CONTROL, TICKETS

DIAMOND TICKETING SYSTEMSwww.diamondticketing.com845 E. 4800 South, Murray, UT, 84107, 866-323-5411, ext 107Diamond Ticketing Systems provides customized snd cost-effective ticketing solutions focused on helping motorsports organizations build revenue and increase marketing exposure.

TICKETFORCEwww.ticketforce.com4858 E. Baseline Rd, Ste 103, Mesa, AZ 85206 877-726-3581TicketForce utilizes a powerful web-based ticketing system to provide the racing industry a fully customizable solution to ticketing online, mobile, and Facebook ticketing.

WELDON, WILLIAMS & LICKwww.wwlinc.com [email protected] North A St., Fort Smith, AR 72901, 800-242-4995WW&L, Inc. specializes in roll tickets and fast turnaround event tickets. We also sell the automated KIS Ticket System.

APPAREL, SOUVENIRS, NOVELTIES

ADVERTISING EDGEwww.advertisingedge.com9840 Prospect Ave., Santee, CA 92071, 800-258-9774In-house manufacturer of and for embroidery, screen printing, direct to garment printing, full-color sublimation, promo products.

RACE TRACK WHOLESALEwww.racetrackwholesale.com817 Delaware, Independence, MO 64050, 816-718-2231 FAX 866-365-2231Wholesale distributor of racing souvenirs, t-shirts, and promotional products serving the grassroots racing industry since 2008.

ADVERTISING DESIGN

SIMES GRAPHIC DESIGNSwww.simesgraphicdesigns.com414 Main St., Mandan, ND 58554, 888-457-4637 Simes Graphic is full service art studio that services short track racing. They design and print all types of brochures, posters, promotional materials.

AUDIO, VIDEO PRODUCTION

MOFFETT PRODUCTIONSwww.moffett.com, 16140 Kuykendahl St., #126, Houston, TX 77068, 800-HOTT ADSProfessional audio production. Radio spots, TV ads, Tracks Trax race track audio CDs. Great creative, fast service, reasonable prices.

AWARDS & TROPHIES

SIMES GRAPHIC DESIGNSwww.simesgraphicdesigns.com414 Main St., Mandan, ND 58554,, 888-457-4637 Simes Graphic is full service art studio that services short track racing. They manufacture high-end custom cast aluminum trophies.

BANNERS & SIGNAGE

TOTAL TRACK SOLUTIONSwww.totaltracksolutions.com7613 Hamilton Avenue, Mt. Healthy, OH 45231 513-521-7446Wholesale pricing. Banners, billboards, mesh, flags, car wraps, decals, installation, signage consultation,marketing plans, a division of GCI Digital Imaging.

BLEACHERS AND SEATING

BLEACHER BUILDERS INCORPORATEDwww.bleacherbuilders.com2710 South Blaine Street, Muncie, IN 47302, 765-716-5767Specializing in grandstands and suites for speedways, engineering, design/build, used bleachers, suites, press boxes, buying used seating from major speedways.

COMPUTER TIMING & SCORING, SCOREBOARDS

DAKTRONICSwww.daktronics.com [email protected] Daktronics Drive, Brookings, SD 57006, 800-325-8766Daktronics is recognized worldwide as the leading designer and manufacturer of electronic scoreboards, message centers, and large LED video displays.

MYLAPS TIMING & SCORING www.mylaps.com 2030 Powers Ferry Rd SE, Ste. 110, Atlanta, GA 30339, 678-816-4000 MyLaps offers the best in class sports timing systems to measure, publish, and analyze race and participant results for all sports and specifically auto racing.

Directory Of ServicesFor Promoters

Supporting Sponsor of the RPM Promoters Workshops

5245 NC 49 South, Harrisburg, NC 28075 704-455-3906 www.uslegendcars.com

Spec racing with INEX. Legends Cars, Bandoleros, Thunder Roadsters and the new U.S. Legends Modified. Entry classes that attract new

participants. Strict rules enforcement alleviates rules problems. Complete car manufacturing, promotion and rules enforcement.


Circle track crate engines. Engine, chassis and other racing/high performance accessories

available at your local GM dealer.For more information, contact Bill Martens: [email protected]

6200 Grand Pointe Drive, Grand Blanc, MI 48349 800-GM USE US (468-7387)

www.chevroletperformance.com/circletrack/


One-Way RadiosRace Management System

Raceceiver is the world’s smallest radio receiver, used for one-way communications to drivers. Raceceiver Race Management System by

Westhold, transponder scoring for short tracks.

www.raceceiver.com872 Main Street SW Ste D2., Gainesville, GA 30501 866-301-7223

FIRETHORN MARKETING

Custom website design, and developer of custom e-mail marketing campaigns. E-commerce specialists.

www.firethornmarketing.com11550 Indian Hill Way., Zionsville, IN 46077, 304-481-9807


RACECEIVER RACE MANAGEMENTwww.raceceiver.com,872 Main St. SW, Unit D2, Gainesville, GA 30501, 866-301-7223Raceceiver race communications. Raceceiver race management timing and scoring system.

WESTHOLD CORPORATIONwww.westhold.com [email protected] Charcot Avenue, Avenue, San Jose, CA 95131, 408-533-0050Westhold is a leading seller and manufacturer of race timing and scoring systems, scoreboards, message centers, video displays, and software.CRATE ENGINES/PERFORMANCE PARTS

CHEVROLET PERFORMANCEwww.chevrolet.com/performance/crate-engines.html6200 Grand Pointe Dr., Grand Blanc, MI 48349, 810-606-3655 Circle track crate engines. Engine, chassis, and other racing/high-performance accessories available at your local GM dealer. For information, contact Bill Martens.

FORD RACINGwww.fordracingparts.com24796 Davenport Ave., Novi, MI 48374, 800-367-3788Sealed racing engines and engine components

FUEL, LUBE, ADDITIVES

LUCAS OIL PRODUCTSwww.lucasoil.com302 N. Sheridan St., Corona, CA 92880, 800-342-2512Nationally known manufacturer and marketer of lubricants and additives for fleets and automobiles, owner or sponsor of Lucas

Oil I-10 and Lucas Oil (MO) Speedways, drag racing, drag boat racing, pulling, motocross, off-road racing, ASCS Sprint Car Series, Lucas Oil MLRA Series, the Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series, and MAV TV American Real.

SUNOCO RACING FUELSwww.racegas.comPO Box 1226, Linwood, PA 19061, 800-722-3427The largest refiner of racing gasoline. National distribution of quality brands. SUNOCO, Turbo Blue, and Trick.

GAMING DESTINATIONS

ELDORADO HOTEL/CASINOwww.eldoradoreno.com345 North Virginia Street, Reno, NV 8950, 800-648-5966Superb dining in five themed restaurants, 800 gorgeous rooms, and suites, 81,000 sq. ft. of fun and gaming, world class entertainment. Sponsor of Workshops.

INSURANCE, RISK MANAGEMENT

ALLIED SPECIALTY INSURANCEwww.alliedspecialty.com [email protected] Gulf Blvd., Treasure Island, FL 33706, 800-237-3355Allied Specialty Insurance is a leader in the Motorsports industry since 1983. Call us for a speedy quote!

JONES BIRDSONG MOTORSPORT INSURANCE www.jonesbirdsong.com8935 South Pecos Road, Unit 22B, Henderson, NV 89074, 866-998-3804Jones Birdsong Motorsports offers the widest range of products designed to protect motorsports associations, facilities, teams, and special events.

K&K INSURANCE GROUPwww.kandkinsurance.com1712 Magnavox Way, Ft. Wayne, IN 46804, 800-348-1839www.kandkcanada.comK&K Insurance Group Canada,#101-5800 Explorer Drive, Mississauga, ON, L4W 5K9, 800-753-2632The industry’s largest provider of racing insurance. More than 40 years of underwriting and risk management experience. Motorsport’s most experienced in-house claims staff. International service capability. Proud sponsors of RPM and the RPM Promoters Workshops.

NAUGHTON INSURANCE, INC.www.naughtoninsurance.com [email protected] Wampanoag Trail, East Providence, RI 02915, 401-433-4000Motorsports insurance programs for race tracks, teams, sanctioning groups, and drivers since 1947. Programs available in all 50 states.

SPORTS INSURANCE SPECIALISTSwww.sportsinsurancespecialists.com4115 Clubview Drive, Fort Wayne, IN 46804, 855-969-0305 Sports Insurance Specialists offers a complete motorsports portfolio of participant and spectator insurance. A proven industry leader. “Let’s kick some risk.”


18

LIGHTING SYSTEMS

MUSCO LIGHTING, INC.www.musco.com100 First Avenue W., Oskaloosa, IA 52577, 800-825-6020Manufacturer of race track lighting systems for short tracks, dragstrips and superspeedways. Featuring the Light Structure Green System and S.C. 2 Retrofit systems.

MARKETING & MEDIA CONSULTATION

DIRTYMOUTH COMMUNICATIONSwww.dirtymouthcommunications.com170 Morehead Road, Sarver, PA 16055 724-448-5120Helping tracks, sanctioning bodies and entrepreneurs build profitable racing programs by integrating marketing, social media, public relations and sponsorship activation.RACING TIRES

HOOSIER RACING TIREwww.hoosiertire.com65465 US 31 South, Lakeville, IN 46536, 574-784-3152Complete line of custom-manufactured spec racing tires for oval tracks, drag racing and road racing. The only company exclusively manufacturing racing tires. Proud sponsor of RPM and the RPM Promoters Workshops.

RACE TIRES AMERICAwww.americanraceronline.com1545 Washington St., Indiana, PA 15701, 800-662-2168Making competitive, cost-effective race tires, so that you can focus on increased car counts and exciting shows.

TOWEL CITY RETREADINGwww.towelcityracingtires.com1601 N. Ridge Ave., Kannapolis, NC 28083, 704-933-2143Forty-six years experience manufacturing economical long-wearing retreaded racing tires, 7 to 13‚ widths, dirt or asphalt. Track tire plans available.

RADIOS, COMMUNICATIONS

AMERICAN ELECTRONICS, INC.www.americanelectronicsinc.comPO Box 301, Greenwood, IN 46142, 800-872-1373Two-way radios, noise-canceling headsets, and accessories designed for speedways, and dragstrips. Exclusive home of the FREEDOM radio and the BOSS II and EARS headsets.

RACECEIVER RACE COMMUNICATIONSwww.raceceiver.com872 Main St. SW, Unit D2, Gainesville, GA 30501, 866-301-7223Raceceiver one-way radios and race communications.

SANCTIONING GROUPS

IMCA-INTERNATIONAL MOTOR CONTEST ASSOCIATIONwww.imca.com1800 West D Street, Vinton, IA 52349, 319-472-2201The nation’s oldest, largest, and leading sanctioning body. We focus on affordable divisions to assist the profitability of our sanctioned facilities and events.

INEXwww.uslegendcars.com5245 NC 49 South, Harrisburg, NC 28075, 704-455-3906Spec racing with INEX. Legends Cars, Bandoleros, Thunder Roadsters, Modifieds. Entry classes that attract new participants.

Strict rules enforcement alleviates rules problems. Complete car manufacturing, promotion and rules enforcement.

NASCARwww.nascar.comOne Daytona Blvd., Daytona Beach, FL 32114, 386-310-6272The NASCAR Home Tracks Program offers sanctioning opportunities for weekly racing and touring series events across North America and Europe.

WISSOTA PROMOTERS ASSOC.www.wissota.orgPO Box 297, Dassel, MN 55325, 320-275-9922A member-driven sanction in the Upper Midwest featuring six divisions of race cars: Late Models, Modifieds, Super Stocks, Midwest Modifieds, Street Stocks and Mod Fours. As a member of WISSOTA, you vote on policies and rules and help guide YOUR organization. Click on Promoter Center at wissota.org.

SPONSORSHIP

SPEEDWAY BENEFITSwww.speedwaybenefits.comSpeedway Benefits unites the best ideas from the most knowledgable in the industry, to help promoters innovate, improve, and maximize profits.

WEB DESIGN & HOSTING

FIRETHORN MARKETINGwww.firethornmarketing.com11550 Indian Hill Way., Zionsville, IN 46077, 304-481-9807Developer of custom e-mail marketing campaigns and custom website design. E-commerce specialists.


20

TRY SOMETHING NEW... E-FLYERS

MARKET YOUR BIG RACE WITH POSTER OR FLYERS!

WHY NOT THINK OUTSIDE THE BOX...

PROMOTE YOUR NEXT BIG EVENT WITH A E-FLYER OR PRINTED POSTER/FLYER!

F R O M S I M E S G R A P H I C D E S I G N S

WHAT’S AN E-FLYER? An e-flyer is the same great artwork we use in all our printed materials, but in a digital form that is used

in e-mails. A super way to promote upcoming events and to keep everyone up to date on what is important at your track. We even give you a pdf that is usable in printing flyers for handout at the

track, all for one reasonable price. Special price for readers of the RPM newsletter $75.00 per flyer... That includes a print ready pdf

file and a jpg made for your website.

NEED A TRACK & EVENT POSTERS & FLYERS? A colorful poster or flyer is still one of the best ways to attract attention to your next big event. A powerful poster is great for store windows,

restaurants, and other visible locations. We’ll custom-design the perfect one. IN A HURRY? Full-color posters or flyers in quantities

as low as 50 to 250 that ship the same day of approval.TO ORDER OR LEARN MORE INFORMATION E-MAIL OR CALL

[email protected] or 888-457-4637

.com


IMCA-INTERNATIONAL MOTOR CONTEST ASSOCIATION

The nation’s oldest, largest, and leading sanctioning body. We focus on affordable divisions to assist the profitability of our sanctioned facilities and events.

1800 West D Street, Vinton, IA 52349, 319-472-2201

www.imca.com

Supporting Sponsor of the RPM Promoters Workshops Indy Update, Dallara Details(From P12)

RPM@Indy Update, Dallara Details

We’ve been asked how to locate the media center at Indianapolis Motor Speedway. You will enter the Speedway grounds through the 16th Street gate as though you were going to the Hall of Fame Museum. Upon emerging from the tunnel, you will see near the guard house directional signs leading you to the media center on the fourth floor of the Tower Terrace building. It’s that simple. Follow the signs, take the elevator. Join colleagues.

Help Us Help Dallara, Please

We encountered a small inconvenience with our Dallara tour and ask for your assistance in mitigating it. The registration application on the next page is revised from earlier application forms distributed by RPM. If you have already reserved your credentials for the RPM@Indy Workshop and plan to join us at Dallara for our exclusive tour December 9, but have not provided RPM with your full legal name, including middle name, and your country of citizenship, we ask you to please complete and FAX another application. (It can be found on page 22.) Early RPM@Indy applicants sent their request before we became aware of Dallara’s requirements for clearance to take the tour. Because Dallara is an ITAR (International Traffic In Arms Regulations)-certified international manufacturer, they must process the identity and citizenship of all visitors. The U.S. Government requires all such manufacturers to be ITAR compliant. Help us prevent inconvenience by providing your full legal first, middle, and last name, as well as your country of citizenship, so

we can clear our group with minimal inconvenience to Dallara before the Workshop. We look forward to seeing you at RPM@Indy.

Found On The Web

We like the published commitment of Steve Puvalowski and his staff at Tri-City Race Track shown on their website.

We Believe: “Our mission is for local short track racing to thrive so future generations can experience our passion for the sport.”

Integrity of the Sport: We will help keep the industry alive; honor the rules of the sport; create good working relations with others with similar core values.

Sustainable: We will keep racing affordable for both racers and fans while making improvements and renovations with cash on hand to ensure our business is stable through all economic times.

Equality: We will treat everyone as equals and with respect. Pricing, rules, payouts, expectations will be provided in advance and will be honored.

Family-Friendly: We will provide entertainment and a facility that is safe, clean and appropriate for all ages to enjoy.

Experience: We will provide a quick precise show that keeps the fans and racers engaged.

Community: We will build deep rooted relationships; make a positive difference and give back within our means.

WHO IS ELIGIBLE TO ATTEND: Admission to the RPM Promoters Workshops is limited to authorized members of the motorsports industry. This registration is offered only to weekly-schedule oval track and dragstrip promoters (and owners, lessees, managers, etc.) and their designated staff members, officers of racing associations and touring series and their designated staff members, promoters of specialty motorsports events and their designated staff members and the motorsports press. Decisions regarding eligibility to register and attend are solely within the discretion of Workshops management. Workshops management reserves the exclusive right to offer registration to other individuals. Workshops management, in all instances, reserves the right to decline registration and admission at these private meetings. Receipt or possession of this application does not imply or constitute a right of admission or a right to participate in the Workshops. The registration fees here are offered to race facility owners, lessees, promoters, managers, association officers and their staff. Participation by commercial

firms shall be through commercial registration only, as detailed in the solicitation of such firms.

REFUNDS AND DEADLINES: Registrations after deadline dates are void. Fee refunds are made upon written request, following the Speedweek Workshop. Fees may also be credited toward registration at subsequent Workshops. If a registrant attends any meeting session, he or she is ineligible for refund. All refunds are subject to 10% handling charge. Substitutions accepted only prior to registration deadlines. Substitutions are not accepted at the door. All at-the-door registrations, new or substitute, will be charged at-the-door registration fees.

REGISTER IN ADVANCE, PLEASE: Fees shown on this application are for PRE-REGISTRATION ONLY. Pre-registering saves you money (at-the-door registrants will be admitted at the flat rate of $295.00 per person).

____________________________________________________

Name On Card

____________________________________________________

Card Number

____________________________________________________

Expiration Date Security Code

SIGNATURE: I hereby agree to terms & condition at the right, registration fees, and charges to my credit card.

______________________________________________________________Signature Date

Terms/Conditions & Refund Policy

Applications by mail, FAX, e-mail, after deadlines are void. Late entries welcome at Workshop. No late entry up charge.

Workshop Dates & Times

RPM@Vegas, Nov. 11-13, 2015 Pre-Registration, Wed. Evening, 11/11/15, Sessions, Nov 12-13, 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.RPM@Indy, Open at 7:30 a.m., Sessions, 9-5:30 p.m. Weds., Dec. 9, 2015RPM@Daytona, Feb. 14-16, 2016 Pre-Registration, Sun. Evening, 02/14/16Sessions, Feb. 15-16, 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.

More Information

Call/Email Stewart Doty, 715.536.1067, [email protected] _____________

Charged _____________

Check Amt. _____________

Confirmed ______________

ForOfficialUse Only

_________________________________________________________________Track/Series/Club/Firm

_________________________________________________________________Contact Name

_________________________________________________________________Mailing Address

_________________________________________________________________City, State, Zip

_________________________________________________________________Telephone FAX

_________________________________________________________________E-Mail Address

Only applications with e-mail receive confirmation.

________________________________________________________________Owner/Promoter/First Registrant $295.00

________________________________________________________________2nd Registrant Advanced Discount $270.00

________________________________________________________________3rd Registrant Advanced Discount $270.00

________________________________________________________________4th Registrant Advanced Discount $270.00

________________________________________________________________5th Registrant Advanced Discount $270.00

Total Fees (US Dollars Only Please)..........................

RPM@Vegas RPM@DaytonaFax/Postal/E-Mail Advanced Application Deadline for RPM@Vegas, October 26, 2015. For RPM@Daytona, February 6, 2016

Track or Organization

Credentials Requested For...

Please Print Legibly All Information

Credential Discount Void After Deadline. All Late Entries, $295.00

Credential Application 43rd RPM Promoters WorkshopsRPM@Vegas, Nov. 11-13, 2015; RPM@Daytona, Feb. 14-16, 2016

Credential Application, RPM@Indy 2015RPM@Indy, Dec. 9, 2015

RPM@IndyFax/Postal/E-Mail Advanced Application, Deadline, November 27, 2015

Credentials Requested For...

______________________________________________________________Owner/Promoter/First Registrant Citizen of Country $195.00

______________________________________________________________2nd Registrant Citizen of Country $195.00

______________________________________________________________3rd Registrant Citizen of Country $195.00

______________________________________________________________4th Registrant Citizen of Country $195.00

______________________________________________________________5th Registrant Citizen of Country $195.00

Total Fees (US Dollars Only Please).......................

Reserve Your “Player’s Card” Now! Claim it When You Arrive.

_____________________________________________________

Full Name As Shown On ID (Print Legibly, Please)

_____________________________________________________Complete Address as Shown on ID

_____________________________________________________

Date of Birth ___________________________________________

FAX app to 715.536.3616Mail to: RPM Workshops, PO Box 406, Merrill, WI 54452Email to: [email protected]

Send This Application To...

Reserve Your Palace Station

“Boarding Pass”

Enquire upon arrival at hotel registration (the hotel Front

Desk) to claim your Boarding Pass.

Special Requirement To Attend Dallara Tour!Dallara is ITAR Compliant and RPM must furnish the complete legal name (first, middle, last name) and nation of citizenship of all visitors. Please provide them below.

Mark Your Calendar, December 9, 2015The RPM Promoters Workshops

Return To Indianapolis Motor Speedway

What Is The ARPY Award?

The Auto Racing Promoter of the Year is short track racing’s most prestigious award. It is awarded each year after voting by promoters. The award was originated in 1976 by the editors of Racing Promotion Monthly. Voting is conducted in two phases: the present preliminary ballot on the next page that nominates candidates in six regions. The six candidates become Regional Promoters of the Year and then appear on a second ballot published in Issue 45.12 at year’s end.

Honor Roll of Promoters of the Year

Previous recipients of the Auto Racing Promoter of the Year Award, the “ARPY Award,” are: Hugh Deery, 1976 and 1984 posthumously; J.C. Agajanian, 1977; D. Anthony Venditti, 1978; Jack Gunn, 1979; George Eisenhart, 1980; Dick O'Brien, 1981; Howard Tiedt, 1982; Don Martin, 1983; Glenn Donnelly, 1985; Cary Agajanian, 1986; Bud Lunsford, 1987; Bob Daniels, 1988; Howard Commander, 1989; Ray Wilkings, 1990; Paul Kuhl, 1991; Robert Lawton; 1992; Earl Baltes, 1993; Jody Deery, 1994; Andy Vertrees, 1995; Charles Powell, 1996; C-Ray Hall, 1997; Larry Kemp, 1998; Charles Cathell, 1999; Charles Deery, 2000; Ralph Capitani, 2001; Lanny

Edwards, 2002; Bob Nadine Strauss, 2003; Tom Curley, 2004, Steve York, 2005; John Padjen, 2006; Lynn Phillips, 2007, Joe Walt Doellefeld, 2008, the Nuckles Family, 2009, the Queensland family, 2010, Robert Sargent, 2011, Ron Drager Scott Schultz, 2012, Roger Hadan, 2013, Gary Donna Howe, 2014.

Honor Roll, Regional Auto Racing Promoters of the Year

Bob Barkhimer, Ned Jarrett, Harvey Tattersall, John Marcum, Ed Bloom, Bob Slack, Dick Tobias, Roger Holdeman, Ken Clapp, Marshall Wilkings, Keith Hall, Stan Durrett, Darwin Hentz, Jim Corcoran, LeeRoy Nelson, Jim Raper, Doug Fort, Dan Jones, John Stiles, George Butland, Gary Cressey, Sharon Craig Kelley, Marty Jones, Dave Manes, Bill Leesch, Roger Van Daalwyk, Frank Plessinger, Bill Lipkey, Mason Day, the Meals Family, the Beacham Family, Benny Yount, Rick Farren, Mick Beadle, the Rubin Brothers, John Bandimere, Lee Baumgarten, the Cook Brothers, Marion Collins, Tom Helfrich, Russell Hackett, Bob Fredrickson, Mike Lamm, the Chrysler Family, Mark Chewning, Alan Kreitzer, Dale Johnnie Pinelis, the Stone Family with Ted Austad, Bob Allen, Craig Cormack, Mooney Starr, Joe Clay, John Hellendrung, Ray Marler Ken Schrader, Les McBurney, Harvey Fink, Don Hoenig, Andy Cusack, Terry Eames, C.J. Richards, Alex Freisen, Ben Dodge, Mark Arute, Red MacDonald, Bill Ryan, Andrew Harpell, Sylvia Shirley Porter, Gary Donna Howe, James Griffin, Adam Nelson, Roger

Hadan, Steve Beitler, Wayne Anderson/Linus Don Mack/Darren Evavold, Bruce Rogers, Todd Fisher, Fritz Roehrig, Al Varnadore Todd Hutto, Jim Doran, Paul Zimmerman, the Bassuener Family, Orville Chenoweth, Toby Kruse, Rodney Wing, Redd Griffin, Dan Robinson, Kurt Beeksma and the Ashland Bayfield County Racing Association, Harold Crook, Joe Phyliss Loven, Rich Farmer, Doug Traci Hobbs, Ron Scott Wimmer, Tim Pat Bryant, and Dan Robinson.

Celebrating 40 years of Promotional Excellence

Who Will You Nominate For Promoter of the Year?

The Best of The Best: Pictured here on the occasion of the 30th ARPY Award: (Back) Bob Daniels, C-Ray Hall, Glenn Donnelly, Cary Agajanian, Tom Curley, Howard Commander, Robert Lawton, (Center) Chuck Deery, Ralph Capitani, Andy Vertrees, Steve York, Charles Cathell, Paul Kuhl, Larry Kemp, (Bottom) Jody Deery, Earl Baltes, Berniece Baltes, Beverly Edwards, Lanny Edwards, Zonda Powell, Charles Powell. (Lukens Photo)

Nominate 40th Auto Racing Promoter of the YearVote By FAX-Back or E-mail

STEP ONE: Determine and indicate your region REGION 1--EASTERN REGION: Massachusetts, Connecticut, Maine, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Vermont, New York, Delaware, Pennsylvania, Maryland, New Jersey. REGION 2--SOUTHEASTERN REGION: Virginia, Alabama, Tennessee, North Carolina, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina. REGION 3--CENTRAL REGION: West Virginia, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Michigan, Illinois. REGION 4--NORTHERN REGION: Wyoming, Montana, South Dakota, Minnesota, North Dakota, Wisconsin. REGION 5--GREAT PLAINS REGION: Iowa, Missouri, Nebraska, Kansas, Colorado. REGION 6--GREAT PLAINS AND WEST REGION: Oklahoma, Louisiana, Texas, Arkansas, Mississippi, Hawaii, Alaska, Arizona, New Mexico, Idaho, Oregon, Washington, Nevada, Utah, California.

My Region is: ___________________________________ (enter number and name, please)

STEP FIVE: Nominate annual award for outstanding annual short track event...List one special event as your nominee for Outstanding Annual Short Track Event. Eligible are special events of one day or more, presented each year at weekly schedule oval tracks of 5/8 mile or less, or at dragstrips. Events must have been presented for three consecutive years or longer. Typical eligible events would be: Chili Bowl, National Short Track Championship, Gold Cup, Snowball Derby, etc. NOMINATED EVENTS MAY BE FROM ANY REGION.

__________________________________________________________________________________Event name, race track, state, please...

STEP THREE: Nominate candidates... (Please type first name, last name, track name, and state)

Enter the names of up to four individuals, FROM YOUR REGION ONLY, whom you believe are qualified as nominees for Auto Racing Promoter of the Year. If nominees are not from correct region, ballot is void. AUTO RACING PROMOTER OFTHE YEAR NOMINEES--nominate up to four from within your region, (see guide to states below)

__________________________________________________ __________________________________________________Name, race track, state please... Name, race track, state please...

__________________________________________________ __________________________________________________Name, race track, state please... Name, race track, state please...

STEP TWO: Read nominee qualifications and balloting guidelines.NOMINEE QUALIFICATIONS: Nominees shall be promoters (individuals who present and manage auto racing) at North American oval tracks of 5/8 miles or less, and dragstrips, presenting at least six events each calendar year. Consider these criteria as you nominate. SUCCESS LONGEVITY: The nominee's operation should be a successful, profitable track or strip, in continuing operation. IMAGE:The nominee's operation should be well- known in the industry, through continuing favorable publicity and advertising for the facility and its events. NOMINEE’S REPUTATION: The nominee's character and reputation within the industry, as well as in other businesses or endeavors, should be beyond reproach... BETTERMENT OF THE INDUSTRY: Nominee's interest in and involvement with the problems facing the industry, his/her participation in industry meetings, and his/her willingness to share ideas and help others, should all be considered in your selection. BALLOT GUIDELINES: Cast only one ballot, please. We do this on the honor system. Multiple or duplicate ballots from any e-mail or FAX number are not counted.

STEP FOUR: Wild card nomination (optional)...Enter the name of one promoter, FROM ANY REGION, whom you believe is qualified as a nominee for Auto Racing Promoter of the Year. You must nominate at least one promoter from within your own region to qualify for the privilege of nominating a wild card candidate. (Please type first name, last name, track name, state, region)

____________________________________________________________________ Region ________Name, race track, state, please...

Honor Roll,Auto Racing Promoters of the Year

Bob Sargent, Macon (IL) Speedway, received the award last year. Previous winners are: Hugh Deery, 1976/1984; J.C. Agajanian, 1977; D. Anthony Venditti, 1978; Jack Gunn, 1979; George Eisenhart, 1980; Dick O'Brien, 1981; Howard Tiedt, 1982; Don Martin, 1983; Glenn Donnelly, 1985; Cary Agajanian, 1986; Bud Lunsford, 1987; Bob Daniels, 1988; Howard Commander, 1989; Ray Wilkings, 1990; Paul Kuhl, 1991; Robert Lawton; 1992; Earl Baltes, 1993; Jody Deery, 1994; Andy Vertrees, 1995; Charles Powell, 1996; C-Ray Hall, 1997; Larry Kemp, 1998; Charles Cathell, 1999; Charles Deery, 2000; Ralph Capitani, 2001; Lanny Edwards, 2002; Nadine Bob Strauss, 2003; Tom Curley, 2004, Steve York, 2005; John Padjen, 2006; Lynn Phillips Alfred Gurley, 2007; Joe Walt Doellefeld, 2008; and the Nuckles family, Columbus (OH) Motor Speedway, 2009, The Queensland Family, 2010; Bob Sargent, 2011; Ron Drager and Scott Schultz, 2012; Roger Michelle Hadan, 2013; Gary Donna Howe.

Past Regional Auto Racing Promoters of the Year:

Bob Barkhimer, Ned Jarrett, Harvey Tattersall, John Marcum, Ed Bloom, Bob Slack, Dick Tobias, Roger Holdeman, Ken Clapp, Marshall Wilkings, Keith Hall, Stan Durrett, Darwin Hentz, Jim Corcoran, Leroy Nelson, Jim Raper, Doug Fort, Dan Jones, John Stiles, George Butland, Gary Cressey, Sharon Craig Kelley, Marty Jones, Dave Manes, Bill Leesch, Roger Van Daalwyk, Frank Plessinger, Bill Lipkey, Mason Day, the Meals Family, the Beacham Family, Benny Yount, Rick Farren, Mick Beadle, the Rubin Brothers, John Bandimere, Lee Baumgarten, the Cook Brothers, Marion Collins, Tom Helfrich, Russell Hackett, Bob Fredrickson, Mike Lamm, the Chrysler Family, Mark Chewning, Alan Kreitzer, Dale Johnnie Pinelis, the Stone Family Ted Austad, Bob Allen, Craig Cormack, Mooney Starr, Joe Clay, John Hellendrung, Ray Marler Ken Schrader, Les McBurney, Harvey Fink, Don Hoenig, Andy Cusack, Terry Eames, C.J. Richards, Alex Freisen, Ben Dodge, Mark Arute, Red MacDonald, Bill Ryan, Andrew Harpell, Sylvia Shirley Porter, Gary Donna Howe, James Griffin, Adam Nelson, Roger Hadan, Steve Beitler, Wayne Anderson/Linus Don Mack/Darren Evavold, Bruce Rogers, Todd Fisher, Fritz Roehrig, Al Varnadore/Todd Hutto, Jim Doran, Paul Zimmerman, the Bassuener Family, Orville Chenoweth, Toby Kruse, Rodney Wing, Redd Griffin, Roger Hadan, Dan Robinson, Kurt Beeksma and the Ashland Bayfield County Racing Association, Harold Crook, Joe Phyliss Loven, Rich Farmer, Doug Traci Hobbs, Ron Scott Wimmer, Tim Pat Bryant, Dan Robinson.

Supported by Charlotte Motor Speedway, Recognizing Excellence In Promotion!Deadline December 18, 2015.Racing Promotion Monthly and Charlotte Motor Speedway team up again to recognize excellence in race promotion through the Auto Racing Promoter of the Year Award. We appreciate the commitment of MARCUS SMITH and the employees of Charlotte Motor Speedway as they assist us in calling attention to the work of the men and women who lead the short track industry.

Send ballot by FAX to715.536.3616or e-mail [email protected]

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