Al, I just wonder if there would be any benefit in contacting the drag strips in that area to see if they keep any "archive" photos or information. They of course may not be willing to help if it turns into a time consuming situation. The most prominant dragstrip in that region during that era would have been Cayuga Dragway, Cayuga, Ontario. It is now known as Toronto Motorsports Park and is just across the border from Buffalo. Furthermore, Cayuga Dragway is celebrating their 50th anniversary this year and are having all kinds of historical events and nostalgia things going on. It just might be the "year" to contact them about this if you know what I mean. Here's their website.
http://www.torontomotorsportspark.com/dragway/home.htm
The other dragstrips in the area that I am aware of are Lancaster and Niagara.
Good luck buddy.