LONGTIME UTICA-ROME SPEEDWAY COMPETITOR DICK CLARK PASSES AWAY VERNON, NY- Richard J. Clark, of Munnsville NY, a longtime Utica-Rome Speedway regular during the speedway’s asphalt years, passed away on February 28, 2008 after a long illness. More commonly known as Dick Clark to local fans, had one asphalt win on August 23, 1974 during Utica-Rome Speedway’s “Golden Era” when competition was at its all time best at the speedway. Running against the likes of Richie Evans, Sonny Seamon, Geoff Bodine, Jerry Cook, and Lou Lazzaro, Clark held his own. Clark was a regular at many of New York State’s ovals, including Utica-Rome, Fulton, and Shangri-La. Clark’s career accomplishments include the NASCAR New York State Sportsman Champion in 1967, a member of the championship team from the All-Star Racing League in 1968, and induction into the Fonda Speedway and New York State Stock Car Association Hall of Fame. The Utica-Rome Speedway staff and management would like to extend their condolences to the family and friends of Dick Clark. Funeral Services were held on March 3 at the Campbell-Dean Funeral Home, Inc. in Oneida NY. Contributions in his memory can be made to the Munnsville Fire Department, PO Box 300, Munnsville, NY 13409, or to the Multiple Sclerosis Society, 3532 James Street, Syracuse, NY 13206.