Drivers and other interested parties met at the America
Legion hall in Riverhead last night, marking the second time the
group has met collectively. Once again, many came out in hopes
of discussing and presenting ideas aimed at improving the
division as a whole. A total of 19 different teams were
represented at the gathering. Riverhead Raceway Co-Chief
Stewards Mike Cappiello and Jim Maggio, as well as Head
Technical Inspector Walter Boncyzk and new official Paul
Dodorico, were on hand to address some of the issues raised by
the group at the last meeting, as well as to answer any new
questions that have arisen.
The meeting began with a brief welcome from Roger Oxee, who
then turned the floor over to the officials. Paul Dodorico was
introduced as a new member of the officiating staff. Officials
then addressed some of the points brought to them by the group
that met previously. Among the announcements made were that
there would be no tire management rule implemented, and teams
would continue to be allowed to purchase tires as they have in
previous years. Officials also brought up the fact that there
are expected to be some changes in the pit area during the
coming season, as they are going to attempt to group divisions
together in terms of pitting. It is expected that this will be
further discussed with each of the divisions at the competitors'
informational meetings on January 27th. After some discussion,
it was also determined that there would be no spec head option,
an idea that had been discussed at the first meeting. Several
other ideas and issues were discussed, and all in attendance
were allowed to voice opinions and raise key points.
All in all, the turnout was good, and it is hoped that the
overwhelming turnout and interest seen at both meetings will
equate to improved competition among all once the 2008 racing
season begins.
Update (January 13th, 11:26 a.m.): I have
spoken to Co-Chief Steward Mike Cappiello, and he has informed
me that there will be no major changes to pit parking policies
in 2008. He and Jim Maggio have discussed the issue, and have
decided that the policy will remain essentially "as is" for the
coming season. It is stressed, however, that whatever procedural
changes, etc., that are going to be implemented for 2008 will be
discussed at the competitors' informational meetings on January
27th; all teams are encouraged to attend or send a
representative. The schedule for the day can be found
here:
http://www.longislandjam.com/news/2008/newsmain/news010408b.htm.
Source: Tracy
Chirico/LongIslandJam.com
Posted:
January 12, 2008
