Delaware Academy Students Launch “Care Closet” Project

DELHI — A group of eight Delaware Academy juniors are initiating a project to benefit their fellow students, and are looking to the community to help support it. 

The project is the “D.A. Care Closet,” a new initiative that aims to help students who may lack basic essentials like hygiene items and clothing with the items they need to feel confident and supported. The Care Closet will be stocked with new items purchased for the closet, and the group is seeking monetary donations from the community to help purchase them. You can learn more about contributing on the district’s website ( https://tinyurl.com/DACareCloset ).

The juniors and their advisor, High School Counselor Amanda Kane, have been participating in Catskill Area School Study Council conferences throughout the year, and part of their participation is the completion of a project to benefit their community. The D.A. Care Closet is their project, and they are excited about the potential of the project to make a meaningful difference in the lives of some of their fellow students. 

 

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Raccoon Tests Positive for Rabies in Masonville

MASONVILLE — A raccoon tested positive for rabies in the town of Masonville. This is the first laboratory  confirmed positive case of rabies in Delaware County in 2025.  

A rabid raccoon exposed two dogs in the town of Masonville. The raccoon was sent for  testing to the New York State Department of Health Wadsworth Laboratory. There were no  human exposures. One dog was UTD on its rabies vaccinations and received a booster.  Vaccination records of the second dog indicated the animal was not up to date its rabies  vaccinations. The second dog received a booster and will begin a 6-month quarantine  following the New York State Department of Health guidelines.  

Once infected, rabies is a virus that has 100% fatality rate when left untreated, in mammals  including humans. Public Health recommends the following precautions to protect yourself  and your family from possible exposure to rabies: 

• Report any sick or strange acting wildlife 

• Vaccinate pets and livestock. New York State law requires that all dogs, cats and  ferrets be vaccinated against rabies by 4 months of age. Vaccinating your domestic animal  not only provides protection for the animal, but vaccinated pets act as a barrier to keep the  rabies virus from spreading between wild animals and people. 

• Vaccination is also recommended for livestock with frequent human contact. • Do not feed wildlife or stray animals and discourage them from seeking food near  your home. 

• Do not feed strays. According to Public Health Law an owner is defined as any  person keeping, harboring, or having charge or control of or permitting any dog, cat or  domesticated ferret to remain on or be lodged or fed within such person’s house yard or  premises.

• Do not approach an unknown animal, either wild or domestic, especially if it is acting  in a strange or unusual manner. 

• Report all animal bites and any contact with bats to the Health Department in your  county. Human rabies can be prevented after exposure by administering a series of shots.  • Keep garbage cans tightly covered and avoid storing any food outside. • Children should be instructed to tell an adult immediately if they were bitten or  scratched by any animal. 

• If a pet not up to date on its rabies vaccinations comes in contact with rabid or  suspected rabid animal the pet must be quarantined for six months. 

• Vaccinated pets that come in contact with rabid or suspected rabies animal must be  given a booster rabies vaccination within five days of the contact. 

An exposure to rabies can be fatal for a human or a pet. Be sure your dogs, cats and ferrets  are up to date on their rabies vaccinations. Vaccinated pets serve as a buffer between rabid  wildlife and man. Protect them, and you may reduce your risk of exposure to rabies.  Public Health recommends that pet owners take advantage of any of the free remaining  rabies clinics for dogs, cats and ferrets in Delaware County. Pre-registration is suggested for  all clinics. You can pre-register at http://health.ny.gov/go2clinic 

• Sidney-May 5, 2025, 5:30PM-7:30PM, Sidney Fire Hall: 74 River St. Sidney, NY 13838  • Hancock- May 12, 2025, 5:30-7:30PM Hancock Town Hall, 661 West Main St. Hancock,  NY 13783  

• Franklin- June 2, 2025, 5:30PM-7:30PM Franklin Fire Hall, 351 Main St., Franklin, NY  13775  

• Margaretville- June 12, 2025, 4PM-6PM *New Location* Middletown Highway Garage,  111 Fair Street, Margaretville, NY 12455  

• Roxbury- June 26, 2025, 4PM-6PM Roxbury Highway Garage, 52508 State Highway 30,  Roxbury, NY 12474  

• Walton-July 14, 2025, 5 PM- 7 PM *New Location* First Baptist Church, 55 Townsend St,  Walton, NY 13856  

• Delhi- August 20, 2025, 5 PM-7 PM Delhi Fire Hall, 140 Delview Terrace Extn. Delhi, NY  13753 Stamford-September 10, 2025, 5 PM- 7 PM Stamford Fire Hall, 111 Main St.  • Stamford, NY 12167 Deposit- October 7, 2025, 5:30PM-7:30PM DPW garage 1 Village St  (200 Front St), Deposit, NY 13754 

To report a suspected rabid animal call Delaware County Public Health Services at 607-832- 5200. For more information call 607-832-5200 or visit our website at  

www.delawarecountypublichealth.com 

 

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NYC Man Arrested for Alleged Trespass

Franklin, NY– Sheriff Craig S. DuMond announced a Staten Island, NY man is facing the charge of trespass. 

On Wednesday, January 8th, 2025, Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies responded to a trespass complaint in the Town of Franklin. Upon  completing an investigation, Sheriff's Deputies alleged that 53-year-old Joseph Mangi of Staten Island, New York had entered and remained unlawfully on private property.  As a result Deputies requested a criminal summons from the Franklin Town Court. 

On April 8th, 2025, Deputies located and arrested Mangi on the Criminal Summons, charging him with one count of trespass, a violation of the New York State Penal Law. 

 Mangi is scheduled to return to the Franklin Town Court at a later date to answer the charge. 

 

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Oberacker Joins New Visions Program

GRAND GORGE — On Friday, March 28 Senator Peter Oberacker joined the New Visions Health Care Professions Bassett program in person and the Fox program via Zoom to discuss his career in local and state government. The conversation connected to civics and government classes, in which Senator Oberacker elaborated on his role and committees at the NY state legislature, as well as healthcare, substance abuse, and minimum wage. The New Visions classes appreciate the time Senator Oberacker took out of his day to highlight the role of a public servant and emphasize how young adults can become active citizens.

 

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Suspended License Arrest in Delhi

DELHI — Sheriff Craig DuMond announced the arrest of a Delhi man for driving with a suspended license. 

On April 2, 2025, Sheriff’s Deputies, while on patrol in the Town of Delhi, observed a vehicle being operated by a male, known to have a suspended license. The vehicle was also observed crossing into the opposing lane of travel. Upon conducting a traffic stop, Deputies confirmed the identity of 50 yr old Donald Vantassel from Delhi. Following an inquiry with the NYS DMV, Deputies confirmed that Vantassel’s privileges to operate a motor vehicle in NYS had been suspended more than ten times. 

Deputies arrested Vantassel and charged him with aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle in the 3rd degree an unclassified misdemeanor. Vantassel was further issued traffic summonses for unlicensed operator and failure to keep right. 

Vantassel was released on traffic summonses and was directed to appear at the Town of Delhi court at a later date to answer the charges. 

 

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Arrest in Fatal Accident Case

DAVENPORT — Sheriff Craig S. DuMond announced the arrest of a Maryland man following a fatal motor vehicle accident in the Town of Davenport.
On Sunday, September 29th, 2024, Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to State Highway 23 in the Town of Davenport for a report of a one car motor vehicle accident reported as a car into a house. The information provided at the time of the call was that the driver of the vehicle was out of the vehicle and walking around inside the residence. The caller also reported that people inside the house at the time suffered injuries resulting from the collision.
Upon arrival at the scene, Deputies were informed by Emergency Medical Technicians that two occupants of the house had sustained major injuries; including one victim having a fractured femur and head trauma, and the other victim being in critical condition with major head trauma.
The operator of the vehicle, identified as 18-year-old Jayden E. Aviles, of Maryland, New York was interviewed at the accident scene. During the interview, Deputies say that Aviles exhibited signs and symptoms of impairment. Standardized Field Sobriety Tests were administered to Aviles and, at the conclusion of testing, Aviles was arrested based upon the results of the field sobriety tests. Aviles was then transported to the Delaware County Sheriffs Office for a Drug Influence Evaluation.
At the completion of the Drug Influence Evaluation, members of the Delaware County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigation Division determined that Jayden E. Aviles was impaired by Cannabis. Later that same evening, Deputies were informed that one of the victims died as a result of the injuries sustained during the collision.
On March 20th, 2025, the facts and circumstances of this Investigation were presented to the Delaware County Grand Jury. At the completion of the proceeding, the Delaware County Grand Jury handed down an indictment charging Aviles with Driving while Ability Impaired by Drugs, Vehicular Manslaughter 2nd degree, Vehicular Assault in the 1st degree, Vehicular Assault 2nd degree and Moving from a Lane Unsafely.
On April 1st, 2025, members of the Delaware County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigation Division arrested Aviles on the above charges. Aviles was arraigned in front of Honorable Judge Hubbard at the Delaware County Court. Following the arraignment, Aviles was released on pre-trial release conditions directing him to surrender his passport, NYS Drivers License, not to leave the Delaware, Otsego, and Chenango County area, and to maintain communication with the Delaware County Probation Department. Aviles is scheduled to re-appear at the Delaware County Court at a later date for further Court Action.

 

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Andes Man Arrested on Firearm Charge

ANDES — Sheriff Craig S. DuMond announced the arrest of an Andes resident for Criminal Possession of a Firearm.
On March 28th, 2025, members of the Delaware County Sheriffs Office Criminal Investigation Division received a report of a threat made to an Insurance Company. Information provided in the complaint alleged that Robert A. Meredith, 75, of Andesmade multiple death threats to employees of the insurance company.  
Investigators later interviewed Meredith at his residence about the allegations. During the course of their investigation, Investigators found that Meredith was in possession of a firearm, specifically described as a semi-automatic pistol. Investigators also allege that Meredith did not possess a New York State Pistol Permit.
At the conclusion of their investigation, Meredith was arrested and charged with one count of Criminal Possession of a Firearm, a class E Felony.
Following arrest processing, Meredith was released on an appearance ticket returnable to Andes Town Court at a later date.
 

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The College Golf Course at Delhi Opens for the 2025 Season, Celebrating 60 Years of Excellence

DELHI  – The College Golf Course at Delhi announces the official opening for the 2025 season. The course, driving range, and pro shop, located at 85 Scotch Mountain Rd. in Delhi, are open as of Wednesday, April 10. This season marks a historic milestone as the course celebrates its 60th anniversary. 

The course opened as the College Golf Club on July 1, 1965, with a nine-hole track. In 1996, another nine holes were added (today’s back nine), including state-of the-art grasses and irrigation. The expansion allowed the course to accommodate more golfers, host large tournaments and fundraisers, and compete with other 18-hole venues locally and beyond. Today, the College Golf Course at Delhi boasts sweeping views of the Little Delaware River valley, meticulously maintained fairways and greens, a driving range, a practice green and chipping area, and a full-service pro shop.

The College Golf Course at Delhi has been a cornerstone of the local golfing community since its opening. Over the decades, the course has nurtured an educational and friendly atmosphere where players of all levels feel welcome. The course is proud to be a part of SUNY Delhi and act as a living lab where students in the Golf Course Management, Business & Professional Golf Management, and Golf/Sports Turf Management programs have hands-on learning opportunities. The course also offers skill development and coaching to the public. Individual and group lessons taught by PGA Professionals are available, and more than 80 local kids participate in their popular Junior Golf program each summer.  The Delaware County Men’s and Women’s Amateur tournaments are held annually at the Delhi course, and the Men’s event will also celebrate 60 years during the 2025 competition this July.

The College Golf Course at Delhi is also home to Bluestone Pub and Restaurant. Bluestone is open seasonally and offers a beautiful banquet space that can be reserved for special events. This summer, Bluestone is partnering with Hudson Valley-based award-winning chef Brian Alberg to revamp their menu with a focus on regional cuisine.

"We are incredibly proud to be celebrating 60 years of golf in Delhi," said General Manager David Arehart, PGA. "The College Golf Course has long been a place where golfers, both local and visiting, can enjoy the beauty of the Catskills and play an approachable yet challenging and exciting design. Our location, course layout, and partnerships with SUNY Delhi’s academic programs and Bluestone make us one of the most picturesque and dynamic courses in the area. We look forward to welcoming players for another fantastic season of golf and special events."

Golfers can look forward to a variety of leagues, special offers, and tournaments throughout the season. Memberships are also available, offering exclusive benefits, discounts, and access to one of the region’s most celebrated courses.

For more information and to book a tee time, visit golfcourse.delhi.edu or call 607-746-4653. Photos courtesy College Golf Course.

 

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Town Land Survey Postponed - Short Term Rental Regulations Expected

By Mary A. Crisafulli

BOVINA - The Bovina Town Board postponed hiring a surveyor at the regular meeting on April 8. The discussion is expected to resume in May after acquiring at least one additional quote. 

The council is seeking a survey of town property that houses the highway department salt shed and transfer station on New Road. The survey will provide the necessary information to determine logging potential. Logging the roughly 62-acre parcel was suggested in November following the rejection of a grant application to update the existing playground through the O'Connor Foundation. While the council is re-applying for the grant, they hope to get a better understanding of town assets by researching logging potential. 

The council received two quotes for a land survey - $6,400 and $8,000. Councilmember Domonic Gullow asked the discussion be tabled to gain at least one more quote. "I do feel at some point it should be surveyed so we know where the lines are...," he said, adding, it would be good to have an idea of what the lumber is worth. After some research, Gullow found that on average lumber is worth $1,000 an acre. Gullow reached out to Delaware County Soil and Water to walk the property to determine its worth.

It is not an emergency to have the property surveyed, said Councilmember Marni Greenberg. 

Later in the meeting during public comment, two residents spoke in concern regarding potential logging. The residents worry about the destruction of natural habitats, diminishing public walking and hiking paths, and erosion. 

Councilmembers assured the public they are working to gather all the information necessary to make an informed decision that benefits taxpayers as a whole. 

In another discussion, a member of the public asked the council to deliver clear expectations for the influx of short-term rental properties in the area. The individual claims the majority of the rentals are operated by individuals who are not full-time residents. 

Greenberg explained that short-term rental regulations have been discussed at length by the Comprehensive Plan Committee tasked with updating the town's plan. A final draft is currently in review by committee members and includes regulations for such rentals, she said. The council is expected to review the finalized plan in the coming months for possible adoption. 

In other business

The council is seeking mowing services for the five town-owned cemeteries. Mowing is required once a month. 

The broken pillar at the town park was mended. The fence is still in need of repair. 

The transfer station has turned away several individuals attempting to exceed the 55-gallon limit for C&D (construction debris) disposal. 

The Bovina 5K is scheduled for Saturday, July 26 at 9 a.m. with the town picnic to follow. All proceeds are to be donated to the Playground revitalization initiative. 

The council paid bills including general $39,861, water $2,325.18, septic $3,988.59, and highway $9,217.52. The general bill was high due to the annual insurance payment, reported Supervisor Tina Molè. No lighting bill was received this month - council members are seeking answers. 

The next regular town board meeting is scheduled Tuesday, May 13 at 6 p.m.

 

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USPS Pictorial Postmark to Commemorate Freshwater Fishing Lures

GRAND GORGE – On Tuesday April 8 the United States Postal Service commemorated Freshwater Fishing Lures with a special pictorial postmark at the Grand Gorge Post Office.

Attendees were able to have the opportunity to purchase stamps - including the Freshwater Fishing Lures stamp - and receive a free pictorial cancellation with their purchase.

Postmaster Amanda Kovacs-Benjamin said, “We will apply the commemorative postmark on any envelope that has proper postage, making it a souvenir of freshwater fishing and our community.” The postmark was also designed by Kovacs-Benjamin.

 The pictorial postmark will be available at the Grand Gorge Post Office or by mail order request through May 8.  Customers who are unable to get to the Grand Gorge Post Office but wish to obtain a postmark may submit a mail order request as follows:  Affix stamps to an envelope or postcard, address the envelopes or postcards to the proper recipient, insert a card of postcard thickness in envelopes for sturdiness, then tuck in the flap or seal. Place the prepared envelopes or postcards into a larger envelope, affix proper postage and address them to:

The Freshwater Fishing Lure Station

Postmaster

P.O. Box 9998

Grand Gorge, NY 12434

All mail requests must arrive by May 8. 

 

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All Aboard for Orpheus Theatre’s Production of Anything Goes!

Oneonta, NY – The high seas are set for laughter, romance, and show-stopping musical numbers as Orpheus Theatre presents Anything Goes at the Bettiol Theatre Mainstage at Foothills Performing Arts Center this May. This beloved Broadway classic, featuring the iconic music of Cole Porter, promises an evening of toe-tapping entertainment and comedic mischief aboard the S.S. American.

Audiences will follow the adventures of Billy Crocker, a charming young stowaway determined to win the heart of Hope Harcourt, who is unfortunately engaged to the stuffy Lord Evelyn Oakleigh. Meanwhile, the dazzling and quick-witted nightclub singer Reno Sweeney brings her signature style to the voyage, aided by the bumbling gangster Moonface Martin. With mistaken identities, outrageous disguises, and a cast of eccentric characters, Anything Goes is a delightful ride packed with humor and unforgettable melodies.

Helming this production are co-directors and music directors Kerri Hogle and Tim Iversen, with choreography led by tap specialist Tiffany Gardner. Together, they have assembled a talented cast from across the region to bring this timeless musical to life on stage.

Performances will take place at the Bettiol Theatre Mainstage at Foothills Performing Arts Center in Oneonta, with showtimes on Friday, May 2, and Saturday, May 3, at 7:30 p.m., and a matinee on Sunday, May 4, at 3:00 p.m.

Tickets are available now at www.OrpheusTheatre.org, with reserved seating priced at $20 for adults, $15 for seniors (65+), and $10 for students (17 and under). Any remaining tickets will be sold at the door one hour before showtime at a slightly increased price. Theatre-goers are encouraged to arrive early, as ticket sales end five minutes before the curtain rises.

For more information or ticket inquiries, contact Orpheus Theatre at orpheus@orpheustheatre.org or leave a voicemail at 607-432-1800.

Anything Goes is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of Tams-Witmark LLC. More details can be found at www.concordtheatricals.com.

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The Fidelity Medallion

By Vic DiSanto

An interesting bit of trivia is that the oldest military decoration in American history belonged to a Schoharie County resident, David Williams, who moved here from Westchester County in 1805.

The Fidelity Medallion is also known as the André Capture Medallion and Congress ordered it to be procured for three privates in the New York State Militia – Isaac Van Wart, John Paulding, and Williams on November 3, 1780.  Two years after the capture of Major John André, George Washington presented the Fidelity Medallion to the trio in a ceremony at Verplanck’s Point in September 1782. Afterwards, Washington hosted the three militiamen at a celebratory dinner.

The Fidelity Medallion is considered the oldest military decoration in United States history. Although Congress had authorized four gold medals and two silver medals prior to the Fidelity Medallion, the Fidelity Medallion was the first to be made and presented, making it the oldest. 

Paulding’s and Williams’ medals were donated to the New York Historical Society by their respective families and displayed until they were stolen from a locked exhibit showcase in 1976. In 2023, Van Wart’s descendants donated his Fidelity Medallion to the New York State Museum.

Notwithstanding the significance of André’s capture, the names of the captors would have gone unrecorded by history if not for Washington. Paulding, Van Wart and Williams, along with five of their companions, delivered André to Lieutenant Colonel John Jameson on September 23, 1780, at a Continental post in North Castle and then went on their way.  In his initial letter to Washington, Jameson did not mention their names, writing that “Inclosed you’ll receive a parcel of Papers taken from a certain John Anderson who has a pass signed by General Arnold as may be seen The papers were found under the feet of his Stockings he offered the Men that took him one hundred Guineas and as many goods as they wou’d please to ask.” The following day André addressed a letter to Washington in which he revealed his name and rank.

It was Washington who did not let the story of the unnamed militiamen go untold. Washington ordered the three captors of André across the Hudson to Tappan.  A problem arose at first because Jameson could only find Paulding, writing to Washington on September 27, “This will be delivered [to] you by John Paulding one of the Young Men that took Major André and who nobly refused any sum of Money that he should demanded, The other two Young Men that were in Company with him are not yet found as soon as they arrive they shall be sent on.”

Jameson successfully tracked down Williams and Van Wart and they joined Paulding at Tappan a few days later.  The celebrity status of the rustic militiamen began to develop as they made the rounds.  A Continental soldier wrote in his diary on September 30 “The three heroes who took Mr. Andrie yesterday came to the Army and were conversed with by many.”

Lieutenant Colonel Alexander Hamilton would help the trio’s fame grow in a letter to Lieutenant Colonel John Laurens by contrasting Arnold’s ethics with those of the captors:  

He [André] tempted them with the offer of his watch, his horse and any sum of money they should name. They rejected his offers with indignation; and the gold, that could seduce a man high in the esteem and confidence of his country, who had the remembrance of past exploits; the motives of present reputation and future glory to ⟨cloak⟩ his integrity, had no charm for three simple peasants, leaning only on their virtue and an honest sense of their duty.  While Arnold is handed down with execration to future times, posterity will repeat with reverence the names of Van Wert, Paulding and Williams!

The rising stars met with Washington. Satisfied that all was in order, Washington introduced the captors to Congress on October 7:

I have now the pleasure to communica⟨te⟩ the names of the Three persons who captured Major André and who refused to release him notwithstanding the most earnest importunities and assurances of a liberal reward on his part. Their conduct merits our warmest esteem and I beg leave to add, that, I think, the public will do well to make them a handsome gratuity. They have prevented in all probability our suffering one of the severest strokes that could have been meditated against us. Their names are John Paulding—David Williams and Isaac Van Wart.

Congress responded to Washington’s recommendation in less than a month by ordering that the Fidelity medallion be struck to memorialize the capture and granting each captor a generous military pension. Thomas Jefferson predicted that the names of the captors would be “recorded with glory in history.”

An elated Major General The Marquis de Lafayette wrote to Benjamin Franklin in France: “I cannot resist the opportunity of Copying to you the following Resolve of Congress relative to the three Virtuous young Men, Paulding, Williams, and Van Wert, each of whom have also been presented with a Farm from the State of New York.”  

 

 

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Auto Racing News

The crate 602 sportsman division car of Kirsten Swartz from St. Johnsville at last weekends Utica-Rome Speedway car show at Sangertown Square Mall. Photo credit to Marty Karabin.

By Tom Coughlin

If you crave the roar of a big block modified engine starting up or the distinct scent of racing fuel, then Albany-Saratoga Speedway might have been your destination tonight, as they held an early bird inspection from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM.

Looking ahead, several tracks are preparing for the season with practice sessions. On Saturday, Lebanon Valley Speedway will hold an open practice from 3:00 PM until approximately 8:00 PM. If weather cancels the activities, Sunday will serve as a rain date, and if necessary, Tuesday will also be available, presumably during the same time slot. Next Friday, Albany-Saratoga Speedway will host its open practice from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM, with free grandstand admission and $25 pit admission; the rain date is Tuesday, April 15th. Utica-Rome Speedway is also holding an open practice next Friday evening ahead of their opener on Sunday, April 13th. Furthermore, Fonda Speedway will host its open practice next Saturday, with gates opening at 1:00 PM and track time scheduled from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM.

In another sign of the approaching racing season, Fonda Speedway, the "Track of Champions," is searching for individuals or groups to sing the National Anthem on race nights. Anyone interested in this honor should contact Melissa (Mimi) Lazzaro via Direct Message on her Facebook page or by email at mimimonk4@gmail.com.

The recent Utica-Rome Speedway car show at Sangertown Square Mall proved successful. Cars from every division, including winged sprint cars and slingshots, were displayed. Fans filled the venue, meeting drivers, shopping, and dining. Additionally, promoter Jason Broedel confirmed that fans visiting Utica-Rome Speedway will notice facility improvements, including replaced spectator bleacher boards and addressed sound system issues.

The inaugural class of inductees for the Vermont Motorsports Hall of Fame has been announced, recognizing individuals for numerous achievements. The honorees include Driver John Buffum, Promoter Tom “T-Bone” Curley, Driver Harmon “Beaver” Dragon, Driver Bobby Dragon, Promoter C.V. “Chuck” Elms II, Driver Shirley Muldowney, Promoter Charles C.J. Richards, Announcer Ken Squier, and Driver Gardner Stone.

Regarding Shirley Muldowney's connection to the Green Mountain State, while many associate the drag racing legend with Schenectady, New York, and Fonda Speedway, she was born in Burlington, Vermont.

Turning to recent race results, Stewart Friesen of Sprakers competed last Friday at Martinsville Speedway in Virginia. Starting 12th in the Boys & Girls Club of the Blue Ridge 200, Friesen ran competitively throughout the 200 laps on the 0.526-mile oval, finishing 9th. He remains 5th in the point standings after five events.

At Georgetown Speedway in Delaware, Ryan Godown won the 25-lap modified feature, followed by Alex Yankowski. Rick Eckert took the victory in the 26-lap Super Late Model feature, with A.J. Miller of Fultonville finishing tenth. In the crate 602 sportsman division, Bryce Bashore won the feature, while Dylan Madsen placed fifth.

On Saturday night, the Super DIRTcar Series big block modifieds raced at New Egypt Speedway in New Jersey for the 75-lap Power in the Pines event. Stewart Friesen secured the win, followed by Alex Yankowski and 16-year-old Logan Watt. Other finishers included Anthony Perrego (6th), Peter Britten (17th), Justin Stone (18th), Jack Lehner (20th), David Schilling (24th), and C.G. Morey (26th). In the companion 25-lap crate 602 sportsman feature, Ryan Heim won, with local driver Dylan Madsen finishing sixth. This victory marked Friesen's first Super DIRTcar Series win at New Egypt, though he had won there previously in other events.

 

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