The Mountain Eagle

11/3/25

Traditionally Speaking…by Pat Larsen - The Invisible Currency

Written By The Mountain Eagle on 11/3/25 | 11/3/25

There’s an “exchange” that runs between all of us.

It takes on a form that is either spoken or implied between us that occurs quite naturally, often without being noticed. Unlike money, it doesn’t deplete when spent but actually grows outwardly the more it then circulates.

It’s the multifaceted aspect of “the exchange” that can make or break friendships, family connections and even that expression that we have to a family pet. Or it can simply be the glue that continuously connects us through our quieter less obvious efforts to encourage each other that nourishes and binds us. Our relationships can then develop or can help us to grow richer still, as more of this intention circulates within the connections we perpetuate.

Between friends, this might be our way of encouraging each other with sincere honesty and through deep mindful listening whether that is occasional contact or on a day to day basis.

The exchanges between families often call for a bit more patience, simply because there is an expectation already embedded in each of us that goes beyond occasional because of the deep roots we share.

Then, simply put, it’s those expressions of love without words, that enhance the exchanges we might have that deepens bonds throughout our years together.

Our pets share the secret code also that they use to connect to us and then “we” to them. This is expressed through their eyes or perhaps with a wag of their tails that shows their appreciation.

In our household, that exchange is often manifested through a game of fetch with a favorite toy. We all are left with a true feeling of the literal connections that our brains and our bodies so appreciate.

Yes. It's a bond that is chemical as well and in a literal sense that is released in hormonal ways.

Each transaction between individuals reminds us in not so subtle ways that we are indeed important and do matter to each other.

We might not realize how significant this concept is because it doesn’t always announce itself. I could be through a conversation that shows acknowledgement or perhaps in the ongoing defining of small aspects of our relationships that adds up even if in silent less obvious ways.

Every time we interact-whether through words or through presence…something is exchanged. It might be laughter for reassurance or a sympathetic glance of camaraderie.

That’s the beauty of “the exchange.”

Think of the electrical lines that connect us without fail.

Remember that in every relationship, new or old, we have a keen sense of each other's moods, the words contained within the silences, and the potential warmth contained in a gesture.

“Whether it’s spoken or not, deliberate or instinctive, every exchange reminds us that we matter to someone-and that, in turn, gives us something priceless to pass on.

Think about your relationships in this way and acknowledge the frequency of the exchanges that you have to fully comprehend how very gifted you are…it literally will enhance the way you live your life.

Pat Larsen is a syndicated columnist who lives, works, plays and prays with her husband of 52 years and their pup, Lily.

She loves hearing from her readership, feel free to email her at pelarsen5@aol.com or by phone 518-275-8686 if you have a story to share.

Remember to Subscribe!

LEGISLATURE STUFF - It’s Not About the Money - Oh Yes It Is

By Michael Ryan

CATSKILL - Several suggestions were made on what to do with reserve dollars when a public hearing was held on the proposed 2026 Greene County budget, this past Monday night.

County lawmakers hosted the hearing at Catskill High School, drawing an uncharacteristically large crowd on a spending plan that, for the seventh straight year, contains no tax levy increase.

Six of the county’s fourteen towns, under the current proposal, will pay more than they did in 2025, according to figures offered by county administrator Shaun Groden.

But those rises are due to the complex property Equalization Rates, though the total levy will stay unchanged at $27,404,370, budget numbers show.

Larger than predicted sales tax revenues will be used to help offset roughly $5.8 million more in overall spending from a year ago, along with other sources, officials say.

Appropriations rose from $136,082,679 to $141,858,252, needing an equal amount in income, especially sales tax, to keep the tax levy stationary.

Groden, while able to follow through on his predication made, last year, that the levy would stay fixed, could make no such future promise.

Fortunately, sales tax receipts have steadily grown in the county over the same 7-year period and, “sales tax revenue is absolutely critical to the budget,” Groden said. “But it is something we cannot control.”

Groden pointed to potential slashes in both federal and State funding for public assistance programs, and the ongoing government shutdown in Washington D.C. as further reason to take a cautionary, wait-and-see approach to 2027 fiscal prognostications.

In the present, several public hearing attendees focused their attention on the Meals on Wheels program and controversy that has swirled around possible cuts in the number and type of home deliveries.

It has been proposed by the Department of Aging to limit home deliveries of hot meals to once a week, rather than the current five times per week, as a significant cost-cutting measure.

While four more days of frozen meals would be delivered during that single visit, many concerns were voiced regarding the resulting loss off daily interaction between volunteer meal deliverers and the homebound.

While the facts and figures have become somewhat skewed amidst rumors of abandoning the program and misinformation, town of Windham resident Jonathan Gross was one of many speakers urging lawmakers to “put a human face” on the issue.

Helen Kerr, from the town of Lexington, shared a story of how her parents were drivers for the program and how she continued their volunteerism.

“People getting the meals have given so much to their communities,” Kerr said. “They like to see the volunteers every day They depend on us.

“We may be the only people they see on any given day. It really wouldn’t cost that much more to keep going the five days,” Kerr said.

Lawmakers did not provide precise dollar amounts but a series of legislative committee meetings on that subject are scheduled to commence, next week.

The future of Meal on Wheels is expected to be an integral part of those committee talks, potentially resulting in budget modifications prior to anticipated passage in mid-November.

Joseph Izzo, a former county legislator and frequent speaker at the annual budget hearings, took lawmakers to task for how they handle reserve dollars, saying, “let’s speak the truth.”

“I come here every year trying to get tax rates lowered for our towns. You have enough money to adjust your budget to lower property taxes,” in virtually every town, Izzo said.

“Based on what you are saying, and my analysis of the county and State financial reports, it tells me you don’t know [bleep],” Izzo said.

“I realize that issues come up every year but stop fooling around with what you anticipate and what you don’t anticipate. God will be here before you lower the tax rate,” Izzo said.

Lawmakers, over the past seven years, have discussed a tax break, but emphasize they have instead established several reserve accounts, knowing the expenses would inevitably be coming.

They point to the deep divide that surfaced during talks on the construction of a new county jail nearly a decade ago, having no dollars dedicated beforehand toward the State mandated, multi-million dollar project.

Since then, there have been changes made to replacement schedules for equipment, vehicles, materials, etc. in the county highway department, resulting in greater efficiencies and savings in repairs, officials say.

Lawmakers have also been involved in ongoing conversations with town leaders about the formation of a countywide ambulance system, a plan estimated to cost between $12-15 million.

A full countywide system appears to be inevitable although a timetable has been elusive and may be years down the road.

Meanwhile, lawmakers, are also considering subsidizing individual towns to help offset ever-rising costs, shifting a total of $2 million toward that end, dispensing the dollars based on each municipality’s tax levy.

In exchange, municipalities would be asked to sign an agreement, moving toward consolidation in terms of purchasing of equipment and supplies as well as billing, etc, shaping the groundwork for a unified system.

Those details are likewise expected to be debated in the upcoming committee sessions that begin on November 5.

Remember to Subscribe!

The Prattsville Scoop by Abby and Gabby

PRATTSVILLE – Our most sincere thankfulness and gratitude to our Veterans. Do remember them every day and especially on Veterans Day, November 11. “Thank you for your service” accompanied by a handshake, hug and a kiss will do wonders for their day. To all our veterans “Thank you for your service”. The Gilboa Conesville CS will be hosting their annual Veterans Day Program on Monday, November 10, beginning at 9 AM. The students and staffs do a very meaningful program for our veterans and encourage all to attend. It seems the younger the children, the more willing they are to show their exuberance for this meaningful program. Thank you to all for showing your love and appreciation for our veterans. Appreciation and gratitude to our law enforcement members, firemen, EMTs and all those who are there for us in times of emergency and other needs. Remember to set your clocks back an hour Saturday PM.

Our local veterans will be the beneficiaries of the proceeds from the Annual Veterans Day Bake Sale, sponsored by the American Legion Auxiliary Virgil E. Deyo Unit 1327, Saturday, November 8, 9 AM, at Jim’s Great American. You are asked to Bake, Buy or Donate, whatever your wishes and skills are. We have a professional pastry chef who has recently volunteered to make pies for this event. Pies are always the first to sell out so be there early. But if you are too late, there are other delicious items to tempt you and sate your sweet tooth – or will that be sweet teeth. See you there.

Welcome home to Peggy and Jim Young. They are recently returned from Scotland. Thought Peggy looked like she might have a sun tan. From being in Scotland? Did they make a detour to some sunny climes? Regardless, good for them and we wish them many more fun trips. Nothing like getting to know your fellow world citizens from other areas of our planet.

Janet Brainerd and daughter Kathy Schmeidel were guests at a wonderful family/friend 90th birthday party for Joan Myers on Saturday, October 25, at the home of her son Wayne of Prattsville/Red Falls. Joan’s children Wayne, Chip and Dee-Dee were there. Daughter Beverly, who lives in Texas, was the only one not able to attend. The party was a surprise for Joan and she said it was always her goal to reach 90 years of age. Her actual birthday in October 31. Many friends, family members, and one time co-workers made this a memorable day for Joan. Happy Birthday Joan. She resides in Stamford with her son Chip and family. Best to all the Myers family.

Forgot to send out welcome home wishes to Lisa and Steven Birnbaum. They had been visiting granddaughter Elie in New Zealand for a few weeks. Steven returned a few days before Lisa and she brought home an early seasonal cold. But Elie is worth it. As with all new first time grandparents, Steve and Lisa swear Elie is the smartest, brightest, and cutest little girl ever. Enjoy your family.

It was a week of family visitors. Monday niece Pat Minew stopped in for some organizing of Christmas bag construction for the veterans at Stratton VAMC and some family chit chat. Wednesday nephew Benny Benjamin called to say he wanted to stop by to sort through some family pictures going back to th 1930s – 40s, including his parents Ray and Rose Delmar Benjamin. He had some time while his wife Sandy was at the Patchworkers weekly sewing get together. Many childhood memories were enjoyed all over again. Ray was serving in the U.S. Army in World War II when Benny was born, seeing his son for the first time when Benny was two years old. Many of the pictures included Ray in uniform with his adoring younger sisters-in-law and his admiring brothers-in-law. One time in his later years Ray went to the VA for some hearing problems only to discover that he had shrapnel in his leg from combat during WW II in the Pacific. Not sure if they removed the shrapnel or fixed his hearing. Over the weekend Jeremy Marsh, one of the good guys, along Bobby Gurley, stopped by to do some household chores for those of a certain age. All of those mentioned above are included in the “good guys” category.

Get well wishes go out to Pat Bifolco. She just seems to go from one health issue to another. Also get well wishes are sent to mother/daughter – Linda Jaeger and Rosanne Cross. Both have had some days in the hospital are now home recovering from their individual health problems. Continued feel better wishes go out to Claudia Bracaliello, Mary Cline and Randy Brainerd. We send them all prayers for good health.

General Question: Who or what entity is in charge of the local Toys for Tots collection bins? Have been asked for this information so whoever is in charge of said charity, might have some support for your cause, and a good cause it is.

It was a most enjoyable day at Young’s Ace Hardware on Saturday, the 25th. The staff (Debbie W., Nick, Rob and Cameron and owner Peg and others) were there with their assistance and support for the booth for the sale of Raffle Tickets for the Flag Blanket, the Patriotic six piece purse ensemble and patriotic Teddy Bear sponsored by the Prattsville American Legion Auxiliary for the 2025 VA Christmas Celebration in December. Marianne Krauss was the donor of the Flag Blanket and Kathy Sherman made and donated the purse ensemble and teddy bear. We do have some very generous and appreciative friends and supporters of our veterans with many making very generous donations. Thank you. The drawing for these three prizes will be on Tuesday, December 9, and the winners will be notified. As always at these events, you get to touch base with many you have not seen in a while and to catch up on their news. Thanks to all, both local friends and relatives and the many visitors to our area, some passing through and others being part time homeowners. You are all great.

Guess I can sneak this in “GO BILLS”. Been awhile since I could say that. Right, Dottie?

Happy Birthday to Becky Town, at one time the Pastor of the Reform Church, on November 1. Becky and husband Gregg, also Pastor, and their family are frequent visitors to Prattsville, enjoying many holidays with the Jaegers in Huntersfield. On November 3 it is Happy Birthday to Pam Carr and granddaughter Michelle Carr. On November 7 it is Happy Birthday to Cheyenne Robinson, also a granddaughter of Pam Carr. Pam does nice work.

We can always share your news with our readers. Please send your news you want to share to gurleyrv@gmail.com or call 518-299-3219.

Remember to Subscribe!

Windham Election

ANN-MARIE RABIN

DEBRA DAILY

IAN PETERS

MARILYN CARRERAS

WAYNE VAN VALIN

By Michael Ryan

WINDHAM - Windham has been a Republican Party stronghold since memory serves and longer, though that could change in 2026 as the Democratic Party shows signs of invigoration.

There are three candidates, including one Democrat, for two available town council seats and two hopefuls for one town justice position including a Democratic Party challenger.

DEBRA DAILY

The campaign signs for town council candidate Debra Daily are a particular color for a reason. “My name is on the Democratic line this November, but I am running as an independent with no party affiliation,” Daily says.

“I believe Windham deserves leaders who represent everyone, not just one Party. That’s why my campaign signs are purple - a blend of [Republican] red and [Democrat] blue - a symbol of unity and common ground.”

Daily grew up in Cairo (Cairo-Durham Class of 1978), attending Columbia-Greene Community College for nursing, becoming a surgical technician and currently working as a caregiver for the elderly.

Raising two sons and resettling in the hamlet of Hensonville, Rabin says, “I’m excited to be running for town council. I want to give back to this community that has given so much to me and my family.

“I talk to many people in town. They say they want [government] change in Windham. I know I am a newbie,” Daily says, seeking her first elected post.

“There will be a learning curve. I don’t think I’ll go in and make big changes right away. We all want to be safe in our homes and provide things for our children to do. I believe I can bring both sides together,” Daily says.

WAYNE VAN VALIN

Wayne Van Valin is an incumbent town councilman, running on the Republican Party line, starting his 30th year in office if re-elected.

“I love this town. I love the people, our way of life and our traditions,” says Van Vallin, explaining why he wants to continue in public service.

He is a native son and 1979 graduate of Windham-Ashland-Jewett school, successfully operating Van Valin Construction and Remodeling over the past four decades.

Van Valin and his wife Maribel have three children and one grandchild. “We are hoping for a couple of more before long,” he says.

“I believe the reason I’ve been able to stay in office this long is that people are comfortable talking to me over a cup of coffee in the morning,” Van Valin says, crossing paths in a local diner.

An informal conversation in the street is fine too. “People feel free talking to me about things they fear, and I truly want to listen,” says Van Valin, who currently serves as deputy supervisor.

IAN PETERS

Ian Peters is an incumbent town councilman, running on the Republican Party ticket, seeking a third, 4-year term (having initially been elected to fulfill a 1-year unexpired term).

He is a 2007 graduate of Windham-Ashland-Jewett school, also attending private liberal arts college Simons Rock and Columbia University, earning three college degrees in two years, focusing on computer sciences.

Peters and his wife Natasha have two daughters, both attending WAJ, representing the 7th generation of family members in the community.

“I originally ran for office to bring a new generation of people to the town council,” Peters says, “and someone who would be technologically competent, helping bring the town forward,” in the Digital Age.

“I think I understand the town well,” Peters says. “If re-elected, I want to work to get [proposed local zoning rules] over the finish line.

“And I look forward to continue working with the Windham Foundation on many projects,” Peters says. “They are a good partner,” assisting with the creation of little league baseball fields and other recreational opportunities.

ANN-MARIE RABIN

Ann-Marie Rabin is running for town justice on the Democratic Party line, saying, "Windham's strength lies in its community. I am committed to preserving its spirit and integrity.”

Rabin was raised in the Bronx, earning her degree from CUNY Law School in the late 1980’s, learning the ropes working with Bronx Legal Aid.

One of six children, her father died when she was fourteen. “It was difficult for my mother and my family but because of that, I know what it’s like for people to deal with various issues,” Rabin says.

“I know criminal law inside and out. I can apply that knowledge and my own background to be humble as a judge. I will know how to sit and really listen, to discern what is true and not true, fair and not fair,” Rabin says.

After moving fulltime to the mountains, Rabin served with the Greene County district attorney’s and public defender’s offices.

She served as Tannersville village attorney, becoming immersed in legal issues surrounding the Department of Environmental Protection and the creation of a community bike path, helping move the project forward.

“I love the law and especially Constitutional law. I believe my education and life experiences make me more than qualified for this job,” Rabin says.

Rabin, saying, “I am a proud member of the Windham community for more than twenty-five years, emphasizes that, if elected, “I will bring knowledge and compassion for people to the office.”

MARILYN CARRERAS

Marilyn Carreras is running for town justice on the Republican Party line, having been appointed to the bench on January 1, 2025, to fulfill an unexpired 4-year term upon the retirement of Carol Stevens.

“I love this job,” says Carreras. “It allows me to use my legal experience in making clear, fair and balanced decisions that deeply impact people.”

Carreras is originally from New York City, securing a law degree in 1982 from Fordham University, serving an internship with the U.S. Attorney’s office before joining a law firm in lower Manhattan.

Over her career, she has specialized in general practice and trials, divorce and custody law, real estate law, mortgage, probate and wills, estates administration and traffic, preparing her for the bench.

Carreras worked both as a public defender and prosecutor before moving to Windham fulltime in1987, starting her own practice and creating a local law guardian program, advocating for children.

“I have always felt a sense of service to the community,” Carrera says. “I have found that knowing the law is very important in this position.

“New laws are always coming down from Albany, so I spend fifteen hours a week, researching and learning, which I love to do,” Carreras says.

“This allows me to provide an understanding to folks about why court decisions are made which, to me, is very important,” Carreras says.

Remember to Subscribe!

Reflecting on Peter Liman’s Legacy

By Matthew Avitabile

WINDHAM — The Mountaintop lost one of its most creative artists and determined volunteers after he passed away Oct. 7. The Navy veteran, corporate executive, and inventor ran the popular Big Hollow Art Studio in Maplecrest and was involved with many local causes for years.

After his death, friends remembered Liman’s legacy as a significant driver of the arts and community events in Windham. We spoke to Paul and Sheila Trautman of the Windham Arts Alliance about their fond memories of Liman.

He wrote a book called The Monet of the Mountaintop available at Briars & Brambles Bookstore in Windham.

Peter Liman was a major figure in the formation of the Windham Arts Alliance and was involved since around 2003. He came up with the “brilliant idea” of the sandcastle contest in CD Lane Park in Maplecrest. He got the cooperation of the Town of Windham to use CD Lane Park and to donate the sand and the Windham Foundation to donate money to make the sand castle competition possible. Liman got videos of how sandcastles were done in Florida to bring ideas into the school district and organize volunteers. The effort was closely tied between WAA and WAJ Central School.

Liman grew a smaller studio tour into Arts Fest that grew into larger parts of the Mountaintop. Trautman credits him as having “really pushed it” to grow. Over time, it became a major tent event in town.

“He was really good at getting people to help,” he said.

Paul Trautman said that his fondest memory of Peter was of him helping kids build sandcastles at CD Lane.

Liman made sure to organize people to enjoy different studios, including his own studio, supported by his wife Reggie Feinstein.

“They acted like a team,” said Paul Trautman. Liman organized prizes for the contest and Feinstein would award them. Years ago, the WAA received a grant for the project.

Sheila Trautman remembers Liman shoveling sand for the event and organizing others to help.

Paul Trautman said that Liman was instrumental in getting together sand for the project.

He added that Liman “did all of this while he was very sick” but “never complained.”

Twenty years ago Liman was diagnosed as having six months to live and yet continued his commitment to the community.

The group teamed up with the Bataviakill Festival and at Country Suites Bed & Breakfast the team organized to raise money for arts activities for kids.

For years of service to the community, Liman will be missed but through his efforts and those of many others, his legacy will live on.

Liman (in blue) with our own Michael Ryan (in gray)

Photo by Peter Liman with his painting Sunflowers, as seen in Harvard Magazine.

Remember to Subscribe!

All About Racing

Jim Becker assists one of the many kids who were anxious to sit in his racecar on Saturday at Big Truck Day at Guilderland HS. Biittig photo

By Ed & Betty Biittig

This year, our 64th Eastern States weekend took a new turn. We decided to watch from home using FloRacing on Thursday and DirtTrackDigestTV for the remainder of the weekend. We enjoyed relaxing in our recliners at a comfortable seventy degrees. However, we missed the company of others, which has become such an important part of the experience.

On Thursday night, Brett Deyo’s traveling STSS road show hosted its final event, featuring 61 Modifieds. It was a big evening for Matt Sheppard, who not only secured another STSS North Region championship but also won the 50-lap feature, earning $5,000 plus $15,000 for the point title.

The event also included qualifying for the 64 Sportsman participating in Friday’s Eastern States 50. A.J. Albreada recorded the third fastest time in qualifying time trials, a remarkable achievement considering it was his rookie year and first appearance at the historic fairgrounds. Connor Prokop from Middleburgh won one of the Last Chance qualifying events and finished out of the top ten in the feature. The top three in Sportsman in Friday’s 50-lap event was winner Jared Labagh, second Tyler Peet and third A. J. Albreada.

The highlight at Eastern States on Saturday was the 100-lap 358 Modified main event. With Mat Williamson and Matt Sheppard starting up front, it seemed likely one of them would win. The race itself was unforgettable. Williamson led until lap 60, when a flat tire sent him to the back with forty laps remaining. After that, Sheppard took over the lead and held it until the closing laps, when Anthony Perrego moved ahead. On the last lap, Williamson had battled his way up to second place and thrilled the crowd by nearly overtaking the leader—falling short by just the length of a car hood at the finish line.

Sunday’s events began with an autograph session, well received by fans and well attended by drivers. The Street Stock class was up next and that is always an interesting racing event. At the end of the 25-lap feature Jayden Sleight stood in victory lane as the winner with Tom Cilurso and Jim Maher completing the podium.

Next on the agenda for Eastern States 64 and the culmination of the weekend activities was the 200-lap Will Cagle Memorial Eastern States 200. Alex Yankowski of Covington Township, PA claimed victory, with Tyler Dippel from Wallkill taking second place and Peter Britten of Brisbane, Queensland, Australia coming in third. Yankowski expressed his gratitude to the entire Halmar/Friesen team for giving him the opportunity to compete in this prestigious event, stepping in for Stewart Friesen who was injured at a Canadian track earlier this summer.

Saturday morning brought us to Guilderland High School for Big Truck Day, an annual fundraiser supporting the Senior class. Jim Becker always announces his attendance with his No. 9 race car, and we’ve followed his racing career for 32 years. As usual, the kids were delighted to climb into the race car, and when they finished, Jim provided each child with a photo of his car. Jim expressed how much this event meant to him. The three-hour experience was thoroughly enjoyed by many, with parents pleased to see their children’s smiling faces.

We will be taking a break from our weekly column for the off season and will only submit a column as information dictates. We wish everyone a wonderful and joyous holiday season. And remember, please send all news and/or comments to biittig@yahoo.com.

Remember to Subscribe!

Auto Racing News

By Tom Coughlin

If you are headed out Sunday to the Lebanon Valley Speedway for their annual Super Swap Meet, the Lebanon Valley Kart Track is holding a Pancake Breakfast in the Speedway Club House. The breakfast will benefit the Lebanon Valley Kart Track and speedway point fund. Breakfast will be served from 7 a.m. until 10 a.m., and the Swap Meet is open from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m., rain or shine.

Dodge City Speedway will celebrate its 2025 season at Checkers Out Speedway, located at 2299 Route 30A in Johnstown, on Friday, Nov. 7. Appetizers will be served at 6 p.m. and dinner at 6:30 p.m. Dinner tickets are $40 for ages 14 and up. Please R.S.V.P. to Paul Montenaro by Nov. 3, either through the Dodge City Speedway Facebook page messenger or by telephone. Juice Box Kart participants have been invited by Checkers Out Speedway to bring their Karts to race on the indoor track by 5 p.m. Please remember your helmet if you want to race after the banquet.

On Saturday, Nov. 8, Elmo's Speed & Supply will host its 10th annual Swap Meet on the grounds of Albany-Saratoga Speedway, 2671 Route 9 in Malta, from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m.

Also on Saturday, Nov. 8, Outdoor Motorsports and Trailer Sales, located at 3953 NY-30 in Amsterdam, will host a fall open house, vintage snowmobile show, and charity food drive from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. Awards will be presented to Best in Show for various categories of sleds. On-site will be food trucks, vendors, raffles, special guests, manufacturer representatives, and promotional deals. Bring in a canned food item and receive a discount on a purchase.

On Friday and Saturday, Nov. 21-22, the Northeast Racing Products Auction, Trade Show, and Swap Meet will take place in the Exposition building at the New York State Fairgrounds in Syracuse.

In preparation for the 2026 season, Sportsman driver Kirsten Swartz of St. Johnsville has recently picked up a new Bicknell chassis. Dirt modified and NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series driver Stewart Friesen continues to make daily progress in his efforts to heal and rebuild himself from injuries suffered in the horrific modified crash in Canada in late July.

The Capital District Racing Association has listed its high point earners for 2025. Tim Hartman Jr. claimed the title by sitting on top of the C.D.R.A. Sportsman Modified point standings. Taylor Wason and Nick Brundige completed the top three.

Results From Last Week's Eastern States Weekend

Last Thursday night, Orange County Fair Speedway hosted the Short Track Super Series modified division in the Hard Clay Finale. Mat Williamson was the Hot Lap Hero with a 20.904-second fast time. The six heat race winners for the 61 STSS modifieds that signed in were Matt Sheppard, Chris Raabe, Mat Williamson, Brian Calabrese, Danny Bouc, and 2025 O.C.F.S. modified track champion Jack Lehner. In the 50-lap feature, Matt Sheppard scored the win over Mat Williamson and Anthony Perrego. Matt Sheppard was also crowned the STSS North Region champion.

On Friday night, the Eastern States 50 for the sportsman division saw Jared LaBagh score the win, with Tyler Peet and A.J. Albreada filling the podium. Mat Williamson earned the pole position for the 358-modified Eastern States 100, with Matt Sheppard, Noah Walker, Brian Calabrese, Matt Stangle, and Jessica Friesen locking in the top six starting positions.

Also on Friday, Kaden Honeycutt was at Martinsville Speedway in Virginia competing in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series. Driving the Halmar-Friesen Racing number 52, Honeycutt started fifth, finished stage one in seventh, stage two in eighth, and stage three in second.

Saturday's running of the Eastern States 100 for the 358-modified division took place on a fast and smooth track. In a thrilling finish, Anthony Perrego beat Mat Williamson to the line by only 0.056 seconds. Jessica Friesen, Felix Roy, and Brian Calabrese rounded out the top five. Jack Lehner, in the Nelson Motorsports No. 85, finished ninth.

Jessica Friesen of Sprakers had an outstanding run. After time-trialing sixth, she ran in the top five for the first half of the race and moved into second place behind Perrego when Matt Sheppard pitted around lap 95. Williamson, who had pitted earlier, charged through the field and passed Friesen in the closing laps. A top-three finish in the ESW 100 is a major accomplishment for Friesen, who runs a limited schedule.

On Sunday, Alex "Kid Rocket" Yankowski, the 21-year-old 2024 & 2025 Fonda modified champion, started on the outside of the front row and went on to claim his first victory in the iconic Eastern States-Will Cagle 200, collecting the $24,000 check. Tyler Dippel and Peter Britten filled the podium. Our other area drivers had strong showings: Jack Lehner finished fourth, Marc Johnson sixth, Max McLaughlin seventh, and Anthony Perrego eighth.

Overall, our area drivers had a very good showing at the 64th Eastern States Weekend, a weekend that they can all be proud of.

Remember to Subscribe!

Advertising and Subscription Information

Traditionally Speaking…by Pat Larsen - The Invisible Currency

Written By The Mountain Eagle on 11/3/25 | 11/3/25