Pedal Down Promotions news Archives - Pedal Down Promotions

Author lineup set for first annual Lakeshore Book Show and Author Signing at Sabbatical Brewing Co.

By Jeff Pederson – Pedal Down Promotions

(PEDAL DOWN PROMOTIONS) November 17, 2022 – Twenty-one area authors spanning a broad range of genres, topics and subject matter are confirmed to appear at the first annual Lakeshore Book Show and Author Signing event at Sabbatical Brewing Co. in Manitowoc, Wis. on Saturday, Dec. 3.

Set to run from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. during the holiday shopping season, the show will feature several noted Wisconsin and Upper Michigan-based authors, who will have their books available for purchase and signing throughout the free-admission event.

Joe Verdegan will have copies of his Amazon best-selling true crime book “The Reformatory – Tales from Green Bay’s Maximum Security Prison” available at the Lakeshore Book Show and Author Signing Presented by Pedal Down Promotions at Sabbatical Brewing Co. in Manitowoc, Wis. on Saturday, Dec. 3.

Among the noted authors set to attend is Pedal Down Promotions author Joe Verdegan of Dunbar, Wis., who penned the Amazon No. 1 true crime best seller “The Reformatory – Tales from Green Bay’s Maximum Security Prison” in 2020. In addition, Verdegan has released six additional books covering the Wisconsin and Upper Michigan motorsports scene, including “Life in the Past Lane: A History of Stock Car Racing in Northeast Wisconsin from 1950-1980,” “Life in the Past Lane: The Next Generation,” “Wisconsin International Raceway: Where The Big Ones Run,” “The Bird and The Bear: The Racing Tales of J.J. Smith and Roger Regeth,” “Racing in the 906” and “5-10-32 McBride, Parker & Anvelink.”

Wisconsin Veterans Village Executive Director and veteran Green Bay television news reporter John Maino of Manitowoc, Wis. will also be featured at the show with his 2021 book release “Fifty Strong: Four Decades of U.S. Veterans and Families Share Their Combat and Post-War Experiences.”

The following are also scheduled to be on hand with copies of their books for sale during the event.

• Former Fox Valley Lutheran High School Football Coach and Athletic Director Gene Strusz of Appleton, Wis. (athletic leadership and Chistian school prayer author of “Essays on Coaching Athletes: Advice for Athletic Administrators and Coaches of All Sports” and “Morning Prayers for the Christian School”)

• Angel Mueller of Mishicot, Wis. (inspirational Christian poetry author of “Wheels Up – Grief to Peace”)

• Robert L. Rogler of Kiel, Wis. (medieval fantasy author of “Heart of Light Book One – Madea’s Fate,” “Rendered Soul,” and “Witch’s Valley Book Two – Madea’s Fate)

• Lee Trotta of Sheboygan, Wis. (children’s book author of “Florida Cheese,” “Wisconsin Cheese” and “California Cheese”)

• Rodney Schroeter of Random Lake, Wis. (comic book writer, designer and editor of “Human Interest Stuff,” “A Wisconsin Harvest, Vol. II” and The Plymouth Review Current)

• Mary T. Wagner of Sheboygan, Wis. (humor, inspirational essayist and children’s book author of “When the Shoe Fits: Essays of Love, Life and Second Chances,” “Finnigan the Circus Cat,” “Finnigan the Lost Circus Wagon” and “Finnegan the Lionhearted”)

• Lisa Vihos of Sheboygan, Wis. (historical fiction and poetry author of “The Lone Snake: The Story Sofonisba Anguissola,” “Fan Mail From Some Flounder,” “From Everywhere a Little: A Migration Anthology,” “Van Gogh Dreams”)

• Valerie J. Clarizio of Sturgeon Bay, Wis. (author of 13 steamy romantic suspense, time travel and contemporary romance books, including the Chandler County Series, Nick Spinelli Romance Mystery Series, The Preserver and Protector Series, Standalone Romantic Suspense Books) and The Crime and Passion Stalk City Hall Series)

• Sheboygan County Historical Research Center Executive Director Steven K. Rogstad (American history author of “Lincoln Among the Badgers”)

• S.C. Mitchell of Sheboygan, Wis. (science fiction fantasy and romance author of several book series, including “Xi Force,” “Destiny,” “Destiny’s Legacy,” “Heavenly Wars,” “Demon Gate Chronicles” and “Amulet of the Fallen God”)

• Lisa Lehmann of Sheboygan, Wis. (author and photographer of “Lake Michigan: The Wisconsin Shore”)

• R.L. Edinger of Two Rivers, Wis. (mystery and steampunk mystery author of “Journey Into The Knight,” “Lost City of Steam,” “The Cracksman Door,” “Shadows of Nikola Tesla” and “City of Lunara Rise from the Ashes”)

• Melanie James of Two Rivers, Wis. (romance, paranormal romance comedy, paranormal romance and contemporary romance author of over 50 books, including the New York Times best seller “Conjuring Darkness”)

• Bill Gosse of Green Bay, Wis. (athletic sportsmanship author of five-part SCORE book series, including the newly released first installment “SCORE: A Guide to Supporting and Instilling Exceptional Sportsmanship”)

• P.J. Fiala of Green Bay, Wis. (steamy romantic suspense author of 34 books, including the Second Chances, Rolling Thunder, Bluegrass Security, Big 3 Security, GHOST and RAPTOR book series)

• Bronson T. Smith of Green Bay, Wis. (science fiction and dystopian war fiction author of “The Neutron Escalation” and “World War Omega”)

• S.L. Wilton of Birnamwood, Wis. (Arthurian fantasy novelist author of “Queen of Crows’

• Barbara Raffin of Iron Mountain, Mich. (contemporary, historical, paranormal/gothic romance author of “The Mating Game,” “The Visitor,” “Saving Andi,” St. John Sibling Series – “Taming Tess,” “Finding Home,” “Craving a Hero,” “Seeking Bliss,” “Forever Knight”)

• L. Maristatter of Sheboygan, Wis. (theocratic dystopian fiction author of “Tiny Tin House”)

Former Green Bay, Wis. television news reporter John Maino will have copies of his book “Fifty Strong – Four Decades of U.S. Veterans and Families Share Their Combat and Post War Experiences” at the Lakeshore Book Show and Author Signing Presented by Pedal Down Promotions at Sabbatical Brewing Co. in Manitowoc, Wis. on Saturday, Dec. 3.

“The response among authors interested in participating in our first book show and author signing has been tremendous,” Lakeshore Book Show and Author Signing Organizer Jeff Pederson of Pedal Down Promotions said. “The show provides a great opportunity to meet and interact with many area authors, several of whom have written New York Times, USA Today and Amazon best sellers in a wide range of genres. It is also a great chance to purchase books for the reader on your holiday gift list no matter what their favorite genre might be.”

In addition, Pedal Down Promotions will have a table at the show featuring limited quantities of books from Pedal Down Promotions authors John Wirth (“Days Gone By – Growing Up in Small Town Wisconsin”), Dennis Darovich and ob Diener (“Sixty Years of 141 Speedway”), Dennis Darovich and George Baumann (“70 Years of Plymouth Dirt Track Racing”), Dennis Darovich, George Baumann and Verla Peichl (“Racing Recollections”), Lynn Schmalz (“What is School?” and “What is Church?”) and Karen Lueders (“To God Be The Glory”).

The Sabbatical Brewing Co. taproom will be open with drinks available for purchase throughout the event.

Steamy romantic suspense author P.J. Fiala will have several of her romance book available at the Lakeshore Book Show and Author Signing Presented by Pedal Down Promotions at Sabbatical Brewing Co. in Manitowoc, Wis. on Saturday, Dec. 3.

Additional and up-to-date information on the first annual Lakeshore Book Show and Author Signing can be found on the Pedal Down Promotions Facebook, Twitter and Instagram social media pages.

For more information on the first annual Lakeshore Book Show and Author Signing contact Jeff Pederson by phone at 920-323-7970 or email at pedaldownpromotions@gmail.com.

For more information on Pedal Down Promotions, visit www.pedaldownpromo.com.

Pedal Down Promotions is a full-service public relations and media services company devoted to helping its clients effectively communicate with targeted audiences through press releases, newsletters, profile and feature articles, website and social media content development, printed media, editing and layout, graphic design and book publishing services.

For more information on Pedal Down Promotions, email pedaldownpromotions@gmail.com, visit www.pedaldownpromo.com or call 920-323-7970.

November 17, 2022 / by Jeff Pederson

Pedal Down Promotions to hold Lakeshore Book Show and Author Signing at Sabbatical Brewing Co.

The first annual Lakeshore Book Show and Author Signing presented by Pedal Down Promotions is set to take place Saturday, Dec. 3 at Sabbatical Brewing Co. in Manitowoc, Wis. from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

By Jeff Pederson – Pedal Down Promotions

(PEDAL DOWN PROMOTIONS) September 19, 2022 – After publishing 17 books over the course of the past six years, Pedal Down Promotions is preparing to stage the first annual Lakeshore Book Show and Author Signing event at Sabbatical Brewing Co. in Manitowoc, Wis. on Saturday, Dec. 3.

Set to run from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. during the holiday shopping season, the show is set to feature several noted area authors, including Joe Verdegan of Dunbar, Wis., who penned the Amazon No. 1 true crime best seller “The Reformatory – Tales from Green Bay’s Maximum Security Prison” in 2020, and has released six additional books covering the Wisconsin and Upper Michigan auto racing scene.

Other authors scheduled to be on hand with copies of their books for sale are former Fox Valley Lutheran High School Football Coach and Athletic Director Gene Strusz of Appleton, Wis. (“Essays on Coaching Athletes: Advice for Athletic Administrators and Coaches of All Sports” and “Morning Prayers for the Christian School”), Angel Mueller of Mishicot, Wis. (“Wheels Up – Grief to Peace”), Bob Rogler of Kiel, Wis. (“Heart of Light Book One – Madea’s Fate,” “Rendered Soul,” and “Witch’s Valley Book Two – Madea’s Fate) and Lee Trotta of Sheboygan, Wis. (“Florida Cheese,” “Wisconsin Cheese” and “California Cheese”).

Books available for purchase will cover a wide range of genres including true crime, auto racing, youth sports/coaching, Christian/inspirational poetry, medieval fantasy, children’s stories and more.

The Sabbatical Brewing Co. taproom will be open with drinks available for purchase throughout the event.

Previously purchased books can be brought to the show for participating authors to sign.

Authors interested in reserving table space at the first annual Lakeshore Book Show and Author Signing event can contact Jeff Pederson by phone at 920-323-7970 or email at pedaldownpromotions@gmail.com.

Additional and up-to-date information on the first annual Lakeshore Book Show and Author Signing can be found on the Pedal Down Promotions Facebook, Twitter and Instagram social media pages.

For more information on Pedal Down Promotions, visit www.pedaldownpromo.com.

For more information on Pedal Down Promotions, email pedaldownpromotions@gmail.com, visit www.pedaldownpromo.com or call 920-323-7970.

September 19, 2022 / by Jeff Pederson

2019 ‘The Bird & The Bear” book tour scheduled

Nine dates slated at seven venues across Wisconsin to promote new Pedal Down Promotions book publication

(GREEN BAY, WISCONSIN) December 19 – Motorsports author Joe Verdegan of Green Bay has released his 2019 tour schedule for his fourth book “The Bird & The Bear,” published by Pedal Down Promotions of Manitowoc, Wis.

The book chronicles a pair of Northeastern Wisconsin racing legends – Kimberly’s Roger “The Bear” Regeth and Appleton’s J.J. “The Tweety Bird” Smith. In their racing careers spanning several decades starting in the 1960’s, the pair racked up several hundred feature wins and multiple track championships along the way on both dirt and asphalt ovals across Northeastern Wisconsin.

The tour includes a pair of radio show appearances, two motorsports related shows and stops at three Northeastern Wisconsin race tracks that Regeth and Smith experienced a great deal of success in their colorful careers.

The ’19 Tour kicks off Monday night, Jan. 21, 2019 at the Big Apple Pub & Grill in Manitowoc on “Sports Talk” on 1240 WOMT AM with hosts Greg Anderson and Brian Norton. Stop two will be at the fourth annual Luxemburg Racing Show Saturday, Feb. 9 at the Kewaunee County Fairgrounds in Luxemburg.

Stop number three will be at the 5th annual NEW MOTORAMA at Shopko Hall in Green Bay Friday thru Sunday March 29-31. The tour then heads south to West Allis Tuesday, April 2 at the famed Milwaukee Mile at Paulie’s Pub for the 35th season of host Jim Tretow’s “Racing Roundup” show.

Shawano Speedway, the famed half-mile where both Regeth and Smith are members of the track’s Hall of Fame, will host a signing at their season opening race Saturday, April 13. Outagamie Speedway in Seymour powered by Eastern Wisconsin Stock Car, another track where “The Bird” and “The Bear” boast several track titles, will host a signing at their season lid lifter Friday night, May 10 at the Outagamie County Fairgrounds.

The final leg of the ’19 Tour will be at Wisconsin International Raceway in Kaukauna for the second annual “Pre-Season Pit Party” Thursday night, May 16.

“What these signings have evolved into is a true racer’s reunion for both former drivers and fans alike,” Verdegan said. “Those two legendary drivers will be attending some of these signings next year.”

Verdegan’s other books include “Life In The Past Lane – a history of stock car racing in Northeast Wisconsin from 1950-1980” (released 2015), “Wisconsin International Raceway – Where The Big Ones Run” (released 2016) and “Life In The Past Lane – The Next Generation” (released 2017).

All four of Verdegan’s books can be obtained through the following venues:

Amazon.com
Coastal181.com
barnesandnoble.com Barnes and Noble (print on demand)
Muenster Shell (Green Bay)
Bosse’s News (Green Bay)
Book Stop (Green Bay)
Bay Speed Center (De Pere)
Hobby Town (Ashwaubenon)
Hank N Karen’s Pub (Appleton)
Right Foot Performance (Appleton)

December 19, 2018 / by Jeff Pederson

2018 ‘The Bird & The Bear’ Holiday Book Tour Announced

Six Wisconsin book tour dates on tap for December 2018 as Pedal Down Promotions second book publication launches

The front cover for Northeastern Wisconsin Motorsports Author Joe Verdegan’s fourth book “The Bird & The Bear,” chronicling the racing adventures of J.J. “Tweety Bird” Smith and Roger “The Bear” Regeth, has been released. The book will be launched on Saturday, Dec. 8. with a special event at Les Stumpf Ford in Appleton, Wis. – Woody’s Signs book cover design.

(Green Bay, WI) – Motorsports Author Joe Verdegan of Green Bay has announced a six-date holiday book tour to promote his new book “The Bird & The Bear” for the month of December 2018.

The book features the tales of Northeast Wisconsin racing legends J.J. “Tweety Bird” Smith and Roger “The Bear” Regeth. It will be launched Saturday, Dec. 8 at Les Stumpf Ford in Appleton from noon to 3 p.m. Les Stumpf Ford is a longtime sponsor of “The Bear” and was Regeth’s employer for 17 years.

Following the book launch, Kaukauna’s “The X Bar” will host a signing Thursday, Dec. 13 from 6-8 p.m. The X Bar is owned by late model and Figure 8 racer Craig Krueger. Two days later, Hank & Karen’s Pub in Appleton will host a signing on Saturday, Dec. 15 from 1-4 p.m. Local racing enthusiast Hank Grishaber owns the bar with his wife Karen.

The tour will make its only Milwaukee area stop Sunday, Dec. 16 at the Milwaukee Miniature Motors Racing Memorabilia show at the Waukesha County Exposition Center in Waukesha from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The tour swings over to Seymour on Wednesday night, Dec. 19 at the Hustle Inn. from 6-8 p.m. The Hustle Inn is owned by Leslie Fulton. Her uncle was former Seymour Speedway promoter Paul Kaczrowski and George Kaczrowski owned the Hustle Inn for many years and sold the bar to Fulton 14 years ago.

The final stop on the book tour will be Saturday, Dec. 22 at Bosse’s News Depot on Green Bay’s east side from 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

“We’ve trimmed our holiday book tour down to six dates as I think that’s plenty,” Verdegan said. “Both J.J. and Roger will be at the book launch at Les Stumpf Ford on December 8th. Roger has committed to all of them and there’s a good chance J.J. will make some of the other signings, too. Those guys are both great story tellers and we very much look forward to the tour in December. The books have always made great Christmas gifts for race fans and this one will be no exception.”

Verdegan’s other books will be on sale at the signings. They include his 2015 release “Life In The Past Lane – a history of stock car racing in Northeast Wisconsin from 1950 – 1980.” “Wisconsin International Raceway – Where The Big Ones Run”, a 2016 release will also be available, along with “Life In The Past Lane – The Next Generation,” which was launched in 2017.

Race fans who cannot attend any of the signings can pre order books. You can purchase books through PayPal at jverdegan2 or you can send check or money order for $20.00 plus $8.00 shipping and handling to Joe Verdegan, 203 N. Ashland Avenue, Green Bay, Wisconsin 54303. Any book purchases made prior to the Dec. 8 book launch will guaranteed shipping during the week of Dec. 10 in plenty of time for the holidays.

“The Bird & The Bear” will be published by Pedal Down Promotions of Manitowoc, Wis. To contact Pedal Down Promotions, call 920-323-7970, email pedaldownpromotions@gmail.com or visit www.pedaldownpromotions.com.

You can reach Verdegan at jverdegan2@gmail.com or message him through his Facebook account. To keep track of other developments with “The Bird & The Bear” please check out the Northeast Wisconsin Racing History page on Facebook.

“The Bird & The Bear” 2018 Holiday Book Tour Schedule

Saturday, December 8 - Les Stumpf Ford Appleton, WI, 12-3 p.m. 

Thursday, December 13 - The “X” Bar Kaukauna, WI, 6-8 p.m.

Saturday, December 15 - Hank & Karen’s Pub Appleton, WI, 1-4 p.m.

Sunday, December 16 - Racing Memorabilia Waukesha, WI, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Wednesday, December 19 - The Hustle Inn. Seymour, WI, 6-8 p.m. 

Saturday, December 22 - Bosse’s News Depot Green Bay, WI, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

November 15, 2018 / by Jeff Pederson

‘The Bird & The Bear” book cover released

(GREEN BAY, WI) Oct. 8, 2018 – The much-anticipated front cover of motorsports author Joe Verdegan’s fourth book “The Bird & The Bear” has been released.

The cover of the book, which features Northeast Wisconsin racing legends J.J. “Tweety Bird” Smith and “The Bear” Roger Regeth, was completed by Bryan “Woody” Wodack of Woody’s Signs in Sturgeon Bay, Wis.

The book will be launched in less than two months on Saturday, Dec. 8 from noon to 3 p.m. at Les Stumpf Ford in Appleton.

“I’ve had Woody put together signs and banners for my book signings these past three years and his work is second to none,” said Verdegan of Green Bay, Wisconsin. “It was important for me to go with local talent in designing the cover for this fourth book and Woody is one of the best in the region when it comes to this sort of thing.”

The photos on the cover were both taken by De Pere native and former Midwest Racing News columnist Pete Vercauteren at Shawano Speedway in the 1970s.

The top photo includes Smith with his famous Gene Wheeler-owned “Tweety Bird” racer from 1976. The bottom picture is of Regeth on Shawano’s pit lane from 1977 in his famous “Les Stumpf Ford-sponsored-Chevy” owned by Jerry Sheriff and prepared by Mike Randerson.

“In the ‘70s, Shawano Speedway didn’t have guardrail along the backstretch so some younger fans may not pick that up when they glance at the cover,” Verdegan said. “The ‘70s provided some excellent racing on the half-mile and on dirt tracks in the greater Green Bay area. In this book we’ll cover that entire era, along with the sportsman and coupe days for both Roger and J.J., their days racing in USAC and their racing careers after the ‘70s with Roger in the grand national and Mid-American Sportsman divisions and J.J. battling on Thursday nights in the late models at Wisconsin International Raceway in Kaukauna.”

A complete Holiday Book Tour will be released in the very near future.

Woody’s Signs is a full-service vinyl lettering and embroidery shop. To learn more about Woody’s Signs and the services they offer check their website at woodyssigns.com or call 920 743 7052. You can also email Wodack at woody@woodysigns.com.

“The Bird & The Bear” is being published by Pedal Down Promotions of Manitowoc, Wis. You can learn more about their services at pedaldownpromotions.com or email Jeff Pederson at pedaldownpromotions@gmail.com.

To follow progress on the completion of “The Bird & The Bear” please check the “Northeast Wisconsin Racing History” page on Facebook. You can email Verdegan at jverdegan2@gmail.com.

November 15, 2018 / by Jeff Pederson

Verdegan’s ‘The Bird & The Bear’ book to be launched Dec. 8 at Les Stumpf Ford in Appleton

Jeff Pederson (left) of Pedal Down Promotions and Northeast Wisconsin Motorsports Author Joe Verdegan (right) have joined forces for Verdegan’s fourth book titled “The Bird & The Bear,” which is set to be launched with a special event held on Saturday, Dec. 8, at Les Stumpf Ford in Appleton from noon to 3 p.m. The book will be published by Pedal Down Promotions. – Pedal Down Promotions phot

Pedal Down Promotions publication features Northeast Wisconsin racing legends Roger Regeth and J.J. Smith

(Appleton, Wis.) – Motorsports author Joe Verdegan of Green Bay has announced the release of his fourth book “The Bird & The Bear” will be launched Saturday, Dec. 8 from noon to 3 p.m. at Les Stumpf Ford in Appleton, Wis.

The book chronicles a pair of Northeastern Wisconsin racing legends – Kimberly’s Roger “The Bear” Regeth and Appleton’s J.J. “The Tweety Bird” Smith. In their racing careers spanning several decades starting in the 1960s, the pair racked up several hundred feature wins and multiple track championships along the way on both dirt and asphalt ovals.

Both competed in the old USAC stock car circuit as well in the 1960s. Regeth played the “villain” role to a “T”, while Smith was a popular driver wherever he competed. Both drivers elicited a chorus of “cheers and jeers” whenever they showed up to do battle.

Regeth was employed at Les Stumpf Ford for 17 years and was a manager/buyer for one of Wisconsin’s largest car dealers. He was famous for wheeling his Les Stumpf Ford sponsored pink and blue No. 96 Chevrolet Camaro at area tracks, which was a conversation piece in itself. Regeth and Smith won multiple track titles on area ovals in the dirt tracks in the 1970s.

Regeth’s career stopped after the 1978 season, but “The Bear” came out of retirement to compete in Grand National Sportsman and Mid American Stock Car Series action in the early 1990s.

When the 1980s rolled around, Smith began to focus most of his attention on the weekly asphalt racing at Wisconsin International Raceway in Kaukauna. Smith captured WIR’s late model title driving for Anthony Brothers Racing in 1990.

“I’m beyond thrilled that company president Corey Stumpf and his staff have agreed to host our book launch at Les Stumpf Ford,” Verdegan said. “Les Stumpf Ford has been a prominent business in the Fox Valley for several decades, dating back 97 years. They’ve also been huge backers of local stock car racing, most notably supplying the pace car at Wisconsin International Raceway in Kaukauna for many years. We’re hoping for a great turnout at Les Stumpf Ford on December 8th!”

Both Regeth and Smith will join Verdegan at the book launch on Dec. 8.

Verdegan has previously penned three other books covering motorsports history. In 2015, Verdegan released “Life In The Past Lane – A history of stock car racing in Northeast Wisconsin from 1950-1980.” “Wisconsin International Raceway – Where The Big Ones Run” was published in 2016, while Verdegan’s third book, “Life In The Past Lane – The Next Generation” was launched in 2017.

Verdegan’s first three books were published through M and B Global Solutions of Green Bay, Wisconsin. “The Bird & The Bear” is being published by Pedal Down Promotions of Manitowoc, Wis.

Les Stumpf Ford is located at 3030 W. College Ave. in Appleton, just 30 minutes south of Green Bay. You can learn more about Les Stumpf Ford by visiting the website Stumpfford.com.

A complete 2018 “Holiday Book Tour” with Verdegan, Regeth and Smith is expected to be released in the near future.

November 15, 2018 / by Jeff Pederson

Jeff Pederson of Pedal Down Promotions on The Biz Connection Radio Show Sept. 1-2, 2018

November 15, 2018 / by Jeff Pederson

Verdegan, Pedal Down Promotions reach two-book publishing deal

Motorsports author Joe Verdegan (right) has reached an agreement with Jeff Pederson (left) of Pedal Down Promotions to publish his next two books set to be released in 2018 and 2020. Pedal Down Promotions will publish Verdegan’s fourth book titled “The Bird & The Bear” about Northeast Wisconsin racing legends J.J. “Tweety Bird” Smith of Appleton and Roger “The Bear” Regeth of Kimberly in late 2018. Verdegan’s fourth book “Racing In The 906” documenting the racing scene in Upper Michigan over the past five decades is set to be published in 2020. – Pedal Down Promotions photo

Motorsports author set to release two new books in 2018, 2020

(Green Bay, Wisconsin) – Motorsports journalist and author Joe Verdegan has reached an agreement with Pedal Down Promotions of Manitowoc, Wisconsin to publish his two newest books, set for release in December 2018 and 2020, respectively.

The title of the 2018 release is one every Wisconsin race fan will want to add to their book collection. “The Bird & The Bear” will feature the life and times and two of Northeast Wisconsin’s most colorful and successful stock car drivers of the 1970s – Roger “The Bear” Regeth of Kimberly and J.J. “The Tweety Bird” Smith of Appleton.

The 2020 release will be “Racing In The 906” and will cover extensive racing history in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula dating back five decades.

Verdegan, from Green Bay, has authored three books in the past three years. “Life In The Past Lane – a history of stock car racing in Northeast Wisconsin from 1950-1980” was released in 2015. His second book “Wisconsin International Raceway – Where The Big Ones Run” was launched in 2016 while his third book “Life In The Past Lane – The Next Generation” was released in 2017.

“When I began putting together the first book and I put together the chapters on J.J. and ‘The Bear’ I realized there was so much history between those two guys a book covering their racing careers would be not only great reading for the fans but also a great seller,” Verdegan said. “It was a no-brainer really. The stories those two have along with the tales from their respective car owners are must-read stuff!”

Pedal Down Promotions is owned and operated by Jeff Pederson of Manitowoc, Wisconsin. Pederson has 24 years of experience in community journalism as an editor, writer, page layout specialist and photographer. He is currently employed as the editor of The Sheboygan Falls News.

Pederson, a Sheboygan Falls native who currently lives in Manitowoc, serves as a race reporter for Plymouth Dirt Track Racing, PR and media relations representative for Paul Pokorski Motorsports, racing columnist for the WHBL 1330 Radio website in Sheboygan and staff writer for Full Throttle Magazine. Pedal Down Promotions has previously published “Days Gone By – Growing Up In Small Town Wisconsin” by John Wirth, which was released in August 2016.

For updates on the progress of the newest book “The Bird & The Bear” please check out Northeast Wisconsin Racing History’s Facebook page. A release date for “The Bird & The Bear” will be announced in the very near future.

You can reach Verdegan at jverdegan2@gmail.com.

November 15, 2018 / by Jeff Pederson

Pedal Down Promotions to be featured at Luxemburg Racing Show

Pedal Down Promotions among sponsorship seminar presenters

(PEDAL DOWN PROMOTIONS) January 15, 2018 – As the clock ticks steadily closer to the start of the 2018 racing season, Pedal DownPromotions is primed to shift its efforts into high gear with a major presence at the third annual Luxemburg Racing Show Saturday, Jan. 27 at the Exposition Building located at the Kewaunee County Fairgrounds in Luxemburg.

Pedal Down Promotions will join a host of racing teams, tracks and equipment suppliers on hand during the vendor show, which is set to run from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The Pedal Down Promotions table will feature a selection of promotional materials for racing teams, including sponsor signs, photo cards and framed feature articles, as well as details about PDP’s press release and public relations packages aimed at assisting racing teams and tracks in connecting with targeted audiences throughout the upcoming 2018 racing season.

In addition, Pedal Down Promotions owner Jeff Pederson will be a featured presenter at a sponsorship seminar set to begin at noon in the classroom located within the Expo building. The seminar is free of charge with an admission ticket.

Pederson, who handles the public relations and race reporting duties for Plymouth Dirt Track Racing in Plymouth, heads up the public relations and marketing effort for Midwest Sprint Car Association 360 sprint car driver Paul Pokorski of West Bend, serves as a contributing writer for Full Throttle Magazine and is the racing correspondent for the WHBL 1330 radio website in Sheboygan, will offer tips and strategies for racing teams seeking ways to attract sponsors and expand their fan base.

He will also impart advice on how race teams can reach new fans through various promotional strategies related to digital marketing, printed materials and involvement in community events. In addition, Pederson’s presentation will feature an overview of social media dos and don’ts, which internet-savvy race teams will not want to miss.

Pederson will be joined by local racing author and Wisconsin International Raceway Public Relations Director Joe Verdegan, who will offer his own insights on marketing the sport of racing to potential sponsors.

Pederson is also making a special raffle prize package available to sponsorship seminar attendees, which includes a Pedal Down Promotions t-shirt, hat and $50 gift certificate toward any PDP product or service.

“This will be the first time that I have attended the Luxemburg Racing Show, and I am really looking forward to it,” Pederson said. “I’ve heard great things about the show and I think the sponsorship seminar will be a lot of fun and provide some good tips for racers to use when they are seeking sponsors and looking to promote their racing efforts and grow their fan base during the upcoming season.”

The show, which drew nearly 500 people in 2017, allows racers to buy/sell or trade new or used race parts, equipment and supplies. The heated expo building, located on the east end of the fairgrounds, provides ample space for tables, booths and exhibits.

Parking is free with food and beverages prepared and sold by the FFA Algoma Alumni. Adult admission is $3 (including vendors). Kids 12 and under are admitted free.

All up-to-date information regarding the show, including new vendors who sign up, will be released through the “Luxemburg Racing Show” Facebook page.

For more information on Pedal Down Promotions, email pedaldownpromotions@gmail.com, visit www.pedaldownpromotions.com or call 920-323-7970.

January 15, 2018 / by Jeff Pederson

Luxemburg Racing Show, featuring Pedal Down Promotions, fast approaching

(Luxemburg, WI) December 28 – Close to two dozen vendors have already signed up to take part in the third annual Luxemburg Racing Show Saturday, January 27 at the Exposition Building located at the Kewaunee County Fairgrounds in Luxemburg.

In addition more than two dozen tables have been rented out to drivers and car owners looking to sell and swap new and used racing parts.

“Spots continue to fill up fast, so if anyone in the racing community is still interested in signing up they should probably do so while we’ve still got a few spots remaining,” urged show organizer Derek Moede.

Vendors already on board include Van Drisse Racing Parts, Vlies Custom Bodies, Luxemburg Speedway, Racers Ed, 141 Speedway, Upper Peninsula International Raceway (UPIR), Plymouth Dirt Track, Mack Miller Amsoil dealer, Badger Race Wraps, Ultimate Chassis, Scentcy by Kristine Reckelberg, Performance Motorsports, Maverick Motorsports, Cowbell Street Stock Tour, Outagamie Speedway, IMCA, Premier Fabricating, The Hill Raceway, VP Race Fuels, Del Mueller Diecast Dirt Cars, Discount Shop Towels and BIG-G Carbs.

A Big- G Carbs representative will be have a flow bench for anyone that wants to bring their carburetor to check cfm flows. Big-G Carbs will also have different air filters and several 4412 Holley 2 barrel carburetors for sale as well.

Jeff Pederson of Pedal Down Promotions and local motorsports author and Wisconsin International Raceway public relations director Joe Verdegan will head up a driver sponsorship seminar.

Pedal Down Promotions handles the public relations for Plymouth Dirt Track Racing in Plymouth, Wisconsin and also heads up the P.R. and marketing effort for MSA 360 sprint car driver Paul Pokorski of West Bend.

The pair will offer drivers materials and a presentation of some “do’s and don’ts” when it comes to securing marketing partners for their race teams. The sponsorship seminar will commence at noon in the classroom located within the Expo building and is free of charge with your admission ticket.

Now in its third year, the show allows racers to buy/sell or trade new or used race parts, equipment and supplies. The heated expo building, located on the east end of the fairgrounds, provides ample space for tables, booths and exhibits.

In 2017, nearly 500 people made their way through the doors. The show hours run from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Parking is free with food and beverages prepared and sold by the FFA Algoma Alumni.

Adult admission is $3 (including vendors). Kids 12 and under are admitted free. Vendor tables are $20 and can be obtained by calling Derek Moede at (920) 639 4455. You can become a member of the group “Luxemburg Racing Show” through Facebook as well.

All up-to-date information regarding the show, including new vendors who sign up, will be released through this Facebook page.

You can reach Pedal Down Promotions at pedaldownpromotions@gmail.com or 920 323 7970 The website is www.pedaldownpromotions.com.

December 28, 2017 / by Jeff Pederson

Pedal Down Promotions to be featured at Luxemburg Racing Show

PDP’s Jeff Pederson to present at sponsorship seminar

(Green Bay, WI) October 11– A sponsorship seminar aimed to help driver’s secure marketing partners for their racing operations has been added to the Luxemburg Racing show Saturday, January 27 at the Kewaunee County Fairgrounds Expo building in Luxemburg, Wisconsin.

Show organizer Derek Moede has announced that Jeff Pederson of Pedal Down Promotions and local motorsports author and Wisconsin International Raceway public relations director Joe Verdegan will head up the seminar, which will be free of charge with their paid admission to the show.

The pair will offer drivers materials and a presentation of some “do’s and don’ts” when it comes to securing marketing partners for their race teams.

“My presentation will touch on strategies to help race teams connect with fans and sponsors through timely, compelling communication (written pieces, photos, videos, graphics),” said Pederson. “While racing is a hobby for local racers, I believe teams should operate under the same model as any small business through a professional approach and a multi-dimensional plan for success. I will discuss how many of the same promotional principles I have introduced to the small businesses I work with through Pedal Down Promotions can bring prosperity to racing teams at all levels of the sport.”

The sponsorship seminar will commence at noon in the classroom located within the Expo building.

Moede will host the Luxemburg Racing show for the third year. The show will take place Saturday, January 27^th from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Expo building located at the Kewaunee County Fairgrounds in Luxemburg. In 2017, close to 500 people made their way through the doors of the show in its first year.

Parking is free with food and beverages prepared and sold by the FFA Algoma Alumni.

Adult admission is $3.00 (including vendors). Kids 12 and under are admitted free. Vendor tables are $20 and can be obtained by calling Derek Moede at (920) 639 4455.

With the absence of the Expo show in Manitowoc, this show is expected to fill up fast. You can become a member of the group “Luxemburg Racing Show” through Facebook as well. All up-to-date information regarding the show, including new vendors who sign up, will be released through this Facebook page.

You can reach Pedal Down Promotions at pedaldownpromotions@gmail.com, 920-323-7970 or www.pedaldownpromotions.com.

October 11, 2017 / by Jeff Pederson

John Wirth, author of “Days Gone By – Growing Up in Small Town Wisconsin” talks about Pedal Down Promotions

John Wirth and Jeff Pederson

In February of 2007, I started writing articles for The Sheboygan Falls News. It didn’t take long before Jeff Pederson, the editor of The Sheboygan Falls News, asked me to continue writing for the paper. I enjoyed writing them and before long it was 2016, and I had 39 stories written. I knew I wanted to have the stories published, if nothing more than as a bucket list project. I just didn’t know how to go about getting this project done. After searching the internet for anyone that could help me, it became apparent that this was going to be a long and costly undertaking.

When Jeff told me that he was branching out into a new business endeavor, Pedal Down Promotions, I knew I had hope. Working with Jeff proved to be the person I needed to successfully get my book publishing under way. Without ever actually speaking to one another, we got everything done via emails. I provided all of the stories and photos that went along with each story. We decided on the title was going to be “Days Gone By,” the same as the newspapers column. With the title finalized, Jeff took care of the rest. He designed the covers both front and back. He set up all of the main pages, wrote the foreward and proofread the contents to perfection. Jeff also found a printer that would print what we needed at a very reasonable price.

When I received the first proof copy, I was amazed at the quality of the book. The front and back covers looked perfect, as well as the layout of the contents. Jeff truly knocked it out of the park and I was thrilled to have the book of my dreams in my hands. With both of our approvals, we went forward to final print. Jeff set up contacts for placing the book. He did the advertizing both in print and contacting businesses. The biggest surprise came when Jeff emailed me to check out my book on Amazon. He got everything set up for me on Amazon.com, which has proven to be very rewarding. My wife and I flew up to Wisconsin to thank Jeff and to do a promotion article for the press. With Jeff’s connections and his expertise, my dream of having a book published has come true.

February 19, 2017 / by Jeff Pederson

Jeff Pederson of Pedal Down Promotions on The Biz Connection Radio Show Jan. 21, 2017

January 22, 2017 / by Jeff Pederson

Pedal Down Promotions releases new book by John Wirth

New book recalls ‘Days Gone By’ in Sheboygan Falls, Wisconsin

(PEDAL DOWN PROMOTIONS) – Long before smart phones, video games and the internet arrived to serve the nation’s youth with idle gratification, young people relied on a vivid imagination and a keen spirit of adventure to create experiences ripe with exhilarating adventure and a lifetime of memories.

Such is the case for author John Wirth, who draws on those special youthful memories in his new book recently released by Pedal Down Promotions.

“Days Gone By The Falls – Growing up in small town Wisconsin” is John Wirth’s poignant, colorful account of growing up in Sheboygan Falls, Wis. in the 1950s and 1960s.

The book features a collection of 39 newspaper columns, which have appeared on a regular basis in The Sheboygan Falls News weekly newspaper since 2007. The book takes readers back to a time when imagination, creativity and the pursuit of good, clean fun ruled the lives of youngsters long before the clutches of modern technology swooped in to stifle such endeavors.

Wirth, who now resides in Largo, Fla., paints a whimsical portrait of an era in time when people worked hard without question and played hard without considering the possible dangers of youthful exuberance. Readers will meet several unique characters who inhabited many memorable locales in the quant, picturesque, Midwestern city of Sheboygan Falls.

While the book touches on the people, places and things located in Sheboygan Falls, Wirth says the themes of that by-gone era can resonant with one and all, regardless of their place of origin.

“These stories are not a reflection of one small town, in one state,” Wirth said. “I have found that what I experienced could have happened in ‘Anytown USA.’ Since the release of the book, I received an email from a friend who lives in Byron Bay, Australia. He said that reading my stories brought back memories of those days even in Australia.

“Writing these stories was an opportunity to share some of the memories with others, and putting them in book form was the best way I could think of,” he said. “Having Jeff Pederson, from Pedal Down Promotions put this all together for me made my dream come true.”

The book is currently available for $10 at the Sheboygan County Historical Research Center (518 Water St. in Sheboygan Falls, online at schrc.org), Sheboygan Falls Chamber-Main Street (504 Broadway St. in Sheboygan Falls) and the Sheboygan Falls News-Plymouth Review office (113 Mill St. in Plymouth).

It is also available by mail order through Pedal Down Promotions, 517 South St. 27^th in Manitowoc by emailing pedaldownpromotions@gmail.com or calling 920-323-7970.

In addition, the book can be ordered online via Amazon.com.

For more information on “Days Gone By – Growing Up in Small Town Wisconsin,” contact Jeff Pederson at Pedal Down Promotions via email at pedaldownpromotions@gmail.com by phone at 920-323-7970 or online at www.pedaldownpromotions.com.

About the Author

John Wirth grew up in Sheboygan Falls, and after graduating from Sheboygan Falls High School, he served two years aboard a U.S. Navy destroyer. In 1967 he married his high school sweetheart, Marilyn Verhage. They lived in Sheboygan Falls for three years. In 1970, John and Marilyn left the cold Wisconsin winters and moved to their new home in Largo, Florida They have two sons Robert and Donald and two grandchildren. John worked in the telecommunications business for 40 years, working for three large corporations before retiring. Marilyn followed him in retirement from a long teaching career two years later. John enjoys his passions of photography, travel and writing.

“Days Gone By – Growing Up in Small Town Wisconsin” is John’s first book. He welcomes any comments or just a friendly hello at his email address john@solarbright.com.

November 15, 2016 / by Jeff Pederson

Pedal Down Promotions flyer for Arvigo Techniques of Maya Abdominal Therapy Self-Care Training Class

July 21, 2016 / by Jeff Pederson

Pedal Down Promotions gets on track to form connections to success

In today’s fast-paced, high-tech, information-driven society, forging an effective connection with a finely-tuned target audience can carve out the key to success in business creation, event planning, fundraising, product promotion, marketing, public relations and media campaigns.

Founded by experienced newspaper journalist Jeff Pederson, Pedal Down Promotions-Your Fast Track Connection is geared up to provide all of the promotional content and materials businesses, non-profit organizations, schools, government entities and creative individuals need to spread the good word about their plans, accomplishments, endeavors, hopes and dreams – past, present and future.

Pedal Down Promotions – Your Fast Track Connection provides a wide range of promotional services, including detailed profiles of your business, school or non-profit organization; news releases; newsletters; photography; video presentations and social media content, development and updates.

Pederson, who has 21 years of experience serving the communication needs of the community as a newspaper journalist and editor, has the capability to utilize a broad range of media to present the message of Pedal Down Promotions clientele.

News releases, newsletters, photos and videos can be featured on clients’ website, Facebook, Twitter and YouTube social media platforms, as well as Pedal Down Promotions website, social media and YouTube outlets.

Additional connections can be facilitated for inclusion of all promotional elements in newspapers, magazines, websites and other media outlets.

Pederson began his journalism career as a public relations writer for the Eastern Wisconsin Stock Car races in Plymouth in 1994. After sending out news releases on the results of each week’s races in 1994, Pederson introduced a weekly local auto racing column in The Sheboygan Press in May 1995, which was the first of its kind in the long history of the daily publication.

Over the past 21 years, Pederson has gained a wide-range of communication, writing and public relations experience as a sports correspondent at the Sheboygan Press, sports writer and editor at the Chilton Times-Journal and as the editor of The Sheboygan Falls News.

“I have enjoyed writing articles about a wide variety of people, places and things and the response to these articles have been overwhelmingly positive,” Pederson said. “One of the most successful and rewarding aspects of my newspaper reporting career has been the articles I have written for local businesses, as well as community-based civic organizations, schools and government entities.

“In particular, the business profiles I have written has been met with overwhelmingly positive responses and have worked to connect businesses with new customers who may have not known the business even existed,” he said. “The key to these articles has been presenting the business in a personal way. Describing the background of the business owner and possibly even the managers and employees works to give the business a personality and human factor that works to form a connection with potential customers.”

A down-to-earth, personalized approach serves as the foundational centerpiece in all of Pedal Down Promotions’ objectives in assisting clients.

“After writing hundreds of articles promoting business openings, relocation and expansion, I have realized that many businesses are in need of a more personal touch in promoting themselves and the products and services that they offer,” Pederson said. “In today’s modern internet and social media driven world, businesses can promote themselves through their own platforms including websites, as well as various social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, etc.

“I believe many businesses would benefit from a service which provides them with a comprehensive profile of their products and services while also presenting their background, goals and ambitions in a personal way with a distinct human touch,” he said.

For more information on how to get your business, organization, event, team or idea into the fast lane to success, contact Jeff Pederson at 920-323-7970, email pedaldownpromotions@gmail.com, website www.pedaldownpromotions.com or the Pedal Down Promotions Facebook page.

December 8, 2015 / by Jeff Pederson

Category: Pedal Down Promotions news