Arizona Pontiac Power group forming for events & things to do. 1st event this month

[Steve Barcak]

The online Arizona Pontiac Power group is forming as an internet Pontiac club here in Arizona. It is free and we look forward to getting together for fun and events.

here is a direct link. All invited



http://www.meetup.com/Arizona-Pontiac-power-group/

[Mister Pontiac]

I'm all signed up, Steve. Thanks for creating the group for us Arizona Pontiac guys! Should be fun to be able to rendevous for events, etc... Looking forward to it! :)

[mechanickeith]

Joined the first day!! This will be a great way for Pontiac fans in Arizona & further to keep in touch. There are allready several outings planned & more to come. There are 17 members in just a few days!!

[Nikwho]

I joined as well. Looks like it will be a good resource for local Pontiac events. Thanks!

[mechanickeith]

I joined as well. Looks like it will be a good resource for local Pontiac events. Thanks!

Hey guy!! make sure you keep the group aware of any stuff going on up north!! I would have no problem coming up for a show or breakfast!! Am sure others would be interested also. Site is doing pretty good,,, 22 members in a little over a week!

[leapinlucy]

You guys are all invited to the 2012 GTOAA Nationals at Loveland, Co. JULY 3-8. Show is open to ALL PONTIACS and WE ARE RACING AT BANDIMERE!!

[Mister Pontiac]

You guys are all invited to the 2012 GTOAA Nationals at Loveland, Co. JULY 3-8. Show is open to ALL PONTIACS and WE ARE RACING AT BANDIMERE!!

Thanks! Hope to be there this year... :D

[Nikwho]

Hey guy!! make sure you keep the group aware of any stuff going on up north!! I would have no problem coming up for a show or breakfast!! Am sure others would be interested also. Site is doing pretty good,,, 22 members in a little over a week!

I already posted one event. Our 10th annual Charity car show is in June. On the 8th and 9th. Still a little way out. I am IC for the show. We just added a B/O/P 1st and 2nd place trophy. I would LOVE for a bunch of Pontiacs to make a showing this coming year! We have a pretty good little show with around 90 cars.
Nik C.

[Steve Barcak]

Gosh, we had a blast today on our first hike exploring parts of adandoned hiways, finding wrecked cars from the 30s, 40s, and 50s, going up a stream and more! Then we had a cruise night meet. Good times indeed.

Previously, I had found 2 cars in the area but, had not explored them. We not only explored these 2 but, found 3 others!
Here I am holding part of an early 50s Buick fender. We found most of the car wrapped around a tree in a wash.
http://i927.photobucket.com/albums/ad119/applekrate/600_79867532.jpg

Here is a 53 or 54 chebby

http://i927.photobucket.com/albums/ad119/applekrate/tmpphpbRHdKk.jpg

Here we are at the abandoned Claypool tunnel This hiway tunnel was used from 1922-1951

http://i927.photobucket.com/albums/ad119/applekrate/tmpphpjJ8Zql.jpg

[mechanickeith]

Great pictures Steve!! Sorry I couldnt make it. Waiting for the next one!!

[Mister Pontiac]

Indeed it was a Great Day! I only wish more people could have joined us. We're planning another one of these adventures in early January, so any of you AZ Pontiac guys, please come along! Everyone is welcome, and it's such a beautiful area, it's a shame not to be there! :D

[Gator67]

This trip was amazing! We couldn't have asked for a better day. It was great fun blasting around in Todd's wagon from location to location and exploring new terrain on foot. There's lots more pictures of the trip on the APPG website (the link's listed in Steve's signature) and also descriptions of other events that are planned. It's a great group, and I encourage others to join. Thanks for setting it up Steve!

[Steve Barcak]

This trip was amazing! We couldn't have asked for a better day. It was great fun blasting around in Todd's wagon from location to location and exploring new terrain on foot. There's lots more pictures of the trip on the APPG website (the link's listed in Steve's signature) and also descriptions of other events that are planned. It's a great group, and I encourage others to join. Thanks for setting it up Steve!

Thanks for the nice words Jeff!
Here are a few pics I found in my files. My best guess is sometime around WWII. These pics show both ends of the abandoned tunnel.

http://i927.photobucket.com/albums/ad119/applekrate/1-3.jpg

http://i927.photobucket.com/albums/ad119/applekrate/2-3.jpg


This car we are still trying to figure out what it is. something around 1940, it is a 2 door with a split back window.

http://i927.photobucket.com/albums/ad119/applekrate/tmpphpUZ9yKb.jpg

Todd thinks it could be a '37 Ford, he may be right.

Any luck with trim tag ID?

We still have a '64 chev, '58 Pontiac convertible, '51 Merc and others to explore. Lots of old wrecks sitting for decades if you know where to look..

[mechanickeith]

This group has only been up & running for 3 weeks & allready has 30 members!!! LOTS of stuff scheduled in Az in the coming months. Car shows, cruise in's, drag racing & much more. This is a great way to keep in touch!!

[mzbk2l]

Hi Steve. I don't visit this forum much (as I haven't been in town for any events) so I almost missed this announcement - luckily someone mentioned it in the lobby, so I checked it out and joined today. Thanks!

[mechanickeith]

Welcome Mike!!! LOTS of stuff scheduled in the coming months. Make sure you let us know when your back in town!!

[Steve Barcak]

We now have 40 members in less than 40 days!

There are 4-5 events planned for the next few days-

1. This Saturday 1-7 we are meeting at a new auto swap meet at the fairgrounds.

2. then, later in the day, we are meeting in Scottdale at the Pavillions for the car show.

3 Sunday, there is also a swap meet at GCC. 59th ave/Olive

Next week

4. Tuesday 1-10-12 is our 2nd automotive archeology hike adventure. Besides looking and exploring old, abandoned cars, we will be hiking sections of old hiway from the 30s and 40s. Who knows what we will find this time?

5. 1-11 Wednesday is another snowboarding/ski trip to Sunrise ski area. Conditions are excellent with all 3 mountains open.!

6. Saturday 1-14 it is back to the Pavillions in Scottsdale.

Whew! lots to do in Arizona in January

[Mister Pontiac]

The Auto Archeology Hike Adventure yesterday was a bit hit! Four of us made the 300+ mile roundtrip from Phoenix up thru the Salt River Canyon, and back again in our vintage Pontiacs (66 GTO and 74 Bonneville). We had perfect weather, great hiking along the old AZ Hwy 60, and discovered roughly half a dozen wrecked/abandoned/stripped vehicles during our adventure. One of the cars was a 58 Chieftan Convertible (sad).

But what an awesome day! Good times with good friends. Doesn't get much better! Hopefully more people can join us on some of our upcoming adventures...

Enjoy the pics! :)

[mechanickeith]

Great pictures Todd!!! Had an outstanding time!!! Hope everyone came through it ok. Am a bit stiff today from all the walking.

[leapinlucy]

Would you guys consider coming to the GTO club of Americ's national event July 3 thru 7 at Loveland, Colo? All Pontiacs are welcome!!! For info go to GTOAA 2012 Convention. All years all midels welcomed. A 1966 Ram Air I WILL BE IN CONCOURS!

[Steve Barcak]

We now have 55 members and have done a few dozen activities in 2 short months!
Our next adventure hike is scheduled for this Wednesday!
Lots of things going on on the site, worth a look.

[mechanickeith]

Had our 3rd hike down into the Salt River canyon today. Was a fantastic day with lots of neat old wrecks & mines explored. Check out the pictures posted on the site!!! LOTS more to come!!! We ran out of energy & daylight today. Cant wait to return!!!

[Steve Barcak]

Yes Keith, it was an incredible day of adventure and exercise.
Here are some pics. as Keith said, many more on our club site and more coming too!

http://i927.photobucket.com/albums/ad119/applekrate/abandoned%20cars/600_92246152.jpg

http://i927.photobucket.com/albums/ad119/applekrate/abandoned%20cars/600_92245802.jpg

[mechanickeith]

It was a great day!! Todd identified the car we found as a 47 Mercury!!!

http://i857.photobucket.com/albums/ab136/mechanickeith/Salt%20river%20canyon%20hike%202-8-2012/600_92258722.jpg

Still trying to figure out what year this truck is.

http://i857.photobucket.com/albums/ab136/mechanickeith/Salt%20river%20canyon%20hike%202-8-2012/600_92247922.jpg

This will give everyone an idea of the roads we travel in our Pontiac's!!!!! Here is a Picture of Steve with his 66 GTO!! The right side of the road is about a 100 foot drop off!!

http://i857.photobucket.com/albums/ab136/mechanickeith/Salt%20river%20canyon%20hike%202-8-2012/600_92247492.jpg

Some more pictures from the day!! Thats me by the railing!

http://i857.photobucket.com/albums/ab136/mechanickeith/Salt%20river%20canyon%20hike%202-8-2012/600_92244762.jpg

Here is the rag tag group in front of a mine shaft we found.

http://i857.photobucket.com/albums/ab136/mechanickeith/Salt%20river%20canyon%20hike%202-8-2012/600_92241392.jpg

Here is a pic down in the bottom of the Salt River canyon!

http://i857.photobucket.com/albums/ab136/mechanickeith/Salt%20river%20canyon%20hike%202-8-2012/3rdSaltriverhike2-8-2012012.jpg

[Mister Pontiac]

Indeed yesterday was Fantastic! I didn't think we could improve on the first couple adventures, but they just seem to keep getting better! So many undiscovered treasures out there to enjoy...

Looking forward to the next one for sure!! :D

[Steve Barcak]

I love this one

http://i927.photobucket.com/albums/ad119/applekrate/abandoned%20cars/600_92247972.jpg

[mechanickeith]

Not the first time Steve,,,, May not be the last!

[mechanickeith]

Our next Auto archeological hike is scheduled for monday the 27th of Febuary!! If you are in the area & wish to join us, you are more than welcome. We will be returning to the old highway 60 by Globe Az & Salt river canyon area. Have done lots of recon on Google Earth & have found several interesting areas we want to explore!!

[mechanickeith]

WOW!!! Another fantastic outing!!! We went back to the Seneca area to do some more exploring. Found several mine works with tailings strewn all the way down into the canyons. Did a lot of trail hiking & found one mine area with passages that went so far back into the mountains that the flashlights could not reach the end. One mine work had the remains of an old engine down in it. 6 cylinder with 4 bolts holding each rod cap on!!!! Will get pictures posted up in the morning when I can walk & see. very long day. Left my house at 6 am & just got back at 1 pm!!! There was 6 in the group today!! Just WOW!

[Mister Pontiac]

Keith, you're absolutely right... today was another homerun! [:D]

[Steve Barcak]

The Arizona Pontiac Power Group is doing well with 69 members now. In less than 4 months of forming, we have had a few dozen events already. Just a few weeks back, we spent the day in the southern portion of Arizona, primarily the Tucson area. We visited the Pima Air Museum and the air bone yard tour too. The most interesting part of this trip involved exploring a large pit of abandoned old cars. We estimated 50-75 cars from the late 40s through the mid 60's. Among them we found 4 Pontiacs including this rare '60 Ventura 4 dr

http://i927.photobucket.com/albums/ad119/applekrate/abandoned%20cars/600_99463552.jpg

Here is another of them, another rare one, a '60 Star Chief 2 dr sedan. We also found a 63 Lemans coupe and a '59 model.

http://i927.photobucket.com/albums/ad119/applekrate/abandoned%20cars/600_99453492.jpg

Tonight, we will be at the drags doing a performance clinic helping members who do not run their cars often and to help them get aquainted with the bracket procedure. Others who race often will be practicing as well.
Tomorrow and Sunday, we will have a space at the Glendale Community College auto swap meet, it is one of the biggest in Arizona.
Next week, we are planning another trip to go snowboarding and skiing in the pretty White Montains. Conditions are excellent and I went myself yesterday and was able to ride the entire afternoon wearing only shorts and a t shirt. Lots of fun.
Then, Saturday, March 24 is the 4th annual Maricopa Motorsports Show. www.fbcmaricopa.org
After that , we all get ready for the 14th annual Pontiac Heaven and 10th annual Nostalgic Show & GO! both are at Speedworld Dragstrip.

[mechanickeith]

Looks like our next outing will be on wed the 4th of April. We will be heading back to the salt river canyon area to continue our exploration of a bunch of trails & mine works from the early 1900's!!!! If anyone is going to be in the Phoenix area & wants to tag along, drop us a line!!!

[leapinlucy]

Hope you guys can get up to Loveland, Colorado the fourth of July for the GTO Nationals!

[Steve Barcak]

This Saturday, May 5 we will be at SIR Tucson for the 50th anniv drag Reunion. Car show, match races and more. Was hoping to be there with the Tempest Funny car but, will be making the drive in the '66 GTO. Stop by and say 'hello'.

[Steve Barcak]

Headed to Tucson in the am. First nitro session is at noon and do not want to miss that!

[Steve Barcak]

We will be heading back to the old abandoned hwy 60 area east of Superior early Sunday morning.

If anyone would like to join us, contact me.

Meeting up at the IHOP on Baseline rd west of Val Vista leaving there 6am. Come earlier if you want to eat.
We'llbe done by about 11.

Here is the tunnel in use in the 1930s

http://i927.photobucket.com/albums/ad119/applekrate/1-3.jpg

and today..

http://i927.photobucket.com/albums/ad119/applekrate/tmpphpjJ8Zql.jpg

[mechanickeith]

Bringing this one back to the top!! The Arizona Pontiac Power group now has 100 members in less than a year. We had another outing last saturday & went back to the salt river canyon area. We explored a very deep mine that was way down in the canyon. Very hard hike in & out. Here are some pictures.

Heading into the canyon

http://i857.photobucket.com/albums/ab136/mechanickeith/8th%20Auto%20hike/8thautoarcheologicalhike028.jpg

On the trail

http://i857.photobucket.com/albums/ab136/mechanickeith/8th%20Auto%20hike/8thautoarcheologicalhike031.jpg

Steve Barcak doing some rock climbing.

http://i857.photobucket.com/albums/ab136/mechanickeith/8th%20Auto%20hike/8thautoarcheologicalhike006.jpg

At the mine entrance,,Steve Barcak, Mark Leisher,Henderly Ramsey & myself

http://i857.photobucket.com/albums/ab136/mechanickeith/8th%20Auto%20hike/8thautoarcheologicalhike027.jpg

Just inside of the mine entrance.

http://i857.photobucket.com/albums/ab136/mechanickeith/8th%20Auto%20hike/8thautoarcheologicalhike020.jpg

The veins of ore that was being mined,,Asbestos!!

http://i857.photobucket.com/albums/ab136/mechanickeith/8th%20Auto%20hike/8thautoarcheologicalhike024.jpg

After the mine was dug back in, they started to back fill. All that you see is tailings dug out from further in.

http://i857.photobucket.com/albums/ab136/mechanickeith/8th%20Auto%20hike/8thautoarcheologicalhike017.jpg

Steve & Henderly

http://i857.photobucket.com/albums/ab136/mechanickeith/8th%20Auto%20hike/8thautoarcheologicalhike018.jpg

Mark & Keith

http://i857.photobucket.com/albums/ab136/mechanickeith/8th%20Auto%20hike/8thautoarcheologicalhike019.jpg

VERY cold in there!! You can see my breath in the picture.

http://i857.photobucket.com/albums/ab136/mechanickeith/8th%20Auto%20hike/8thautoarcheologicalhike013.jpg

On the trail coming back out.

http://i857.photobucket.com/albums/ab136/mechanickeith/8th%20Auto%20hike/8thautoarcheologicalhike030.jpg

Steve's 66 GTO at a nearby ghost town.

http://i857.photobucket.com/albums/ab136/mechanickeith/8th%20Auto%20hike/8thautoarcheologicalhike002.jpg

http://i857.photobucket.com/albums/ab136/mechanickeith/8th%20Auto%20hike/8thautoarcheologicalhike004.jpg

Last picture before heading home!!! What a day!!!!

http://i857.photobucket.com/albums/ab136/mechanickeith/8th%20Auto%20hike/8thautoarcheologicalhike034.jpg

[Steve Barcak]

Great pics Keith! Yup, it was a fun and adventurous day.
As Keith mentioned, the Arizona Pontiac Power Group now has 100 members and, with more than 60 meet ups in 10 months, we are the largest and most active Pontiac club/group in the state.
Our next meet up is the Central Cruise this Saturday. If you are in the area stop by and say "hello".

The Pontiac Buick Olds FALL FEST will be held Saturday, November 3 at Speedworld more info www.pbofallfest.org


Anything powered by an Olds, Poncho or Buick most welcome to race or show.

Also, any Olds, Poncho or Buick body can be powered by anything too.

There will also be a diesel truck drag bracket and more

Noted author and historian Mr Jim Wangers will be my special guest from California.

Last year we say a nice increase in Olds participation and that was most welcomed. Hope to see even more Oldsmobiles and Olds power here in a few weeks.

If you are coming from out of town and want to stay overnight, there is a special Fall Fest rate at the Hampton Inn not far from the track.
Call 623-587-9122 and mention "Fall Fest" for special rate

[Steve Barcak]

Later today, the Arizona Pontiac Power Group will in at the Central Ave Cruise. We have over a dozen cars on display. Stop by and say hello. After that, we ayy go the the state fair to watch the figure 8 races.

[mechanickeith]

I am on my way!!

[Steve Barcak]

We had a great time at the Central Cruise with about 20 members showing up and a dozen or so Pontiacs.

http://i927.photobucket.com/albums/ad119/applekrate/Arizona%20Pontiac%20Power/600_168788602.jpg

http://i927.photobucket.com/albums/ad119/applekrate/Arizona%20Pontiac%20Power/600_168788412.jpg

http://i927.photobucket.com/albums/ad119/applekrate/Arizona%20Pontiac%20Power/600_168789212.jpg

http://i927.photobucket.com/albums/ad119/applekrate/Arizona%20Pontiac%20Power/600_168788152.jpg

[Steve Barcak]

The Arizona Pontiac Power Group has 3 upcoming meet ups in the next few days-

1. attending the Pontiac Buick Olds FALL FEST at Speedworld, over 20 members are signed up to attend.
2. Sunday morning is an auto swap meet at Glendale community college.
3. Monday, we are taking an exploratory road trip to parts north and west of the Phx area including- Wickenburg, Yarnell, Mingus mountain, Prescott, Cottonwood, Sedona, etc.

You are welcome to join us.

[Formulajones]

This sounds like alot of fun. I don't check in here much and just caught this thread, very cool that pontiac guys get together to do more than just shows. I'll have to sign up and join the group.

We also love to explore the surrounding mountains. Sunday I will be back at Speedworld for an F-body club track day.

Your Monday outing sounds like fun. I live in Prescott Valley so you'll be close by. You have alot of small towns listed to visit in one day. Sounds like you'll be busy.

[virgil381]

Great thread!

Thanks for the pics and updates. post pics of the swamp meet, drags, and cruise please.
me and a couple buddies are thinking of coming to some of your shows.
Traveling from Colorado.

[Steve Barcak]

Great thread!

Thanks for the pics and updates. post pics of the swamp meet, drags, and cruise please.
me and a couple buddies are thinking of coming to some of your shows.
Traveling from Colorado.

Sure! We'll get some pics up there and we always enjoy meeting fellow Pontiac fans from around the country and the world for that matter

[Steve Barcak]

I am offering to the Arizona Pontiac Power Group classes in Pontiac engine building, 400thm and 700 trans building, welding and bodywork/paint prep over the winter and into the spring.
We now have 106 members and lots of things going on.
This weekend is the Good Guys show and swap and cruise night at the Scottsdale Pavillions.

Promoting Pontiac power in every way I can!

[mechanickeith]

108 members & counting!!!

[Cerberus]

Damn! I gotta get a job in Arizona..................anyone hiring?

[mechanickeith]

Depends on what you are looking for. Phx craigs list is pretty active. http://phoenix.craigslist.org/jjj/

[Cerberus]

Thanks, Keith!
My wife and I are in the pharmaceutical manufacturing field. We love Az, got married in Sedona a couple yearrs ago. Have been searching for jobs down there for ~ 10 years. I have property in the bootheel of NM.

[mechanickeith]

Lots of stuff opening up here. Lots of companys have been moving here from Cali. Keep looking!!

[Formulajones]

Thanks, Keith!
My wife and I are in the pharmaceutical manufacturing field. We love Az, got married in Sedona a couple yearrs ago. Have been searching for jobs down there for ~ 10 years. I have property in the bootheel of NM.

Sedona is beautiful, about 45 minutes from where I live.

Jobs are hit and miss here. Depends on the salary range you want/need. I can tell you we played the job interview game here for the last 5 years and finally hit something good up here in Prescott. Yeah it's that slow.

Most of your good paying jobs will be in the Phoenix and Tuscon areas. Phoenix is the 5th largest city in the country, so there are alot of suburbs. Most of your good jobs will be in the East and North East valley like Mesa, Tempe, Scottsdale etc...with some over towards the West side in the Glendale area etc...

My wife worked and drove to Scottsdale everday from Prescott (200 mile round trip daily) because that's where the decent paying jobs were, and even that wasn't easy to get with the market being flooded with the unemployed. She has finally landed a good paying job here in Prescott for an Aerospace company after 5 years of searching. Just not alot up this way. I can tell you it has appeared much easier if you already have a job, that seems to be the pattern with companies unfortunately as they don't seem to consider unemployed if it's been any length of time.

The trend seems to be that about this time every year the hiring slows way down with the holidays coming and all that. With this being an election year (and just now happened) it will be even slower. 4 years ago when Obama was first elected, the hiring practically stopped for a few months until companies got a feel for what was going to happen. It's been a very slow pickup since then. Now with this election over, and holidays coming, plus tax season, I suspect it will be like it's always been and hiring won't pick back up until next spring possibly. I suspect that alot of the country is this way however and not just Arizona.

With all that said, your salary range and willingness to drive (or not) will probably dictate where you live/buy a house.

Hope that helps. Best of luck.

[Formulajones]

Forgot to mention, it also depends alot on whether you want a permanent position or a contract/temporary position.

Most of what's out there (I'd say as much as 75%) is contract work. Companies now are using temp agencies and hiring for temporary short term positions. Some have the chance to go permanent but most of them we came accross had no chance of perm hire and were only for 3 months, 6 months, or maybe a year with a possible contract extension after that.

That's what my wife had been working for the last 5 years on and off. We are talking about a person that has more than 25 years experience in her field with a Bachelor degree on top of that. She had one perm position mixed in there but it didn't pay enough so she went back to contract work for more money. You'll hear "overqualified" quite a bit from your lower paying jobs, which really means "we don't want to pay much money" :rolleyes:
Seems companies don't want strings attached anymore either, they don't want to pay benefits, medical etc..so contracts through temp agencies are the majority of positions out there.
When she recently found a good paying permanent position without the silly contract junk, it was almost like Christmas came early. She is now finally into something good that looks promising. They are paying well and are happy to have her,,,that's a rare company anymore, so it seems.

It really sucked every 3-6 months knowing your contract was coming to an end and wondering if they had enough work to extend it or if you were going to be looking for a job again.

Don't mean to sound like it's gloom and doom out there, but it's definately not what the TV portrays to the public. Job hunting is definately a tough market and I don't see it getting better for a few more years at least.

[Steve Barcak]

A few weeks back, 4 of us piled into 2 of our Pontiacs for an exploratory road trip northwest of the Phoenix area. We drove through Wickenburg, Yarnell, Skull Valley, Prescott, Jerome and as far as Cottonwood until it got dark when we headed back.
Here we are at a place where I have taught kids Bible camp at for a few summers just outside of Prescott.
Mark, Todd, me and Keith

http://i927.photobucket.com/albums/ad119/applekrate/Arizona%20Pontiac%20Power/cvarwwwclientsclient1web2tmpphpXsuOQm.jpg

Parts of this trip I had not been on since the mid 80s when I drove through there in my '71 GTO 455HO.
Here are some pics in Jerome.

http://i927.photobucket.com/albums/ad119/applekrate/Arizona%20Pontiac%20Power/cvarwwwclientsclient1web2tmpphp4mKX0f.jpg

http://i927.photobucket.com/albums/ad119/applekrate/Arizona%20Pontiac%20Power/cvarwwwclientsclient1web2tmpphpHz1x1C.jpg

We did not find much compared to the areas between Superior/Globe on on to Show Low but, we still had a nice drive. Coming up soon will be our continuation of this trip. We will start in the Cottonwood area and drive on up through Sedona and on to Flagstaff.


This weekend is Good Guys and another cruise night in Scottsdale Pavillions. The Arizona Pontiac Power group keeps busy and offers a wide variety of activities.

[Formulajones]

You haven't been to Jerome since the 80's? Wow. Sounds like you had a good time.

I'll be coming down to the Pavilions this Saturday evening as well, but I'm leaving the Pontiacs at home and driving a chevrolet :D Actually coming down for some dyno time in Mesa and then I'll hit the Pavilions on the way back through.

[Mister Pontiac]

Good friends and Pontiacs on 'da road! Doesn't get much better... :)

[Steve Barcak]

You haven't been to Jerome since the 80's? Wow. Sounds like you had a good time.

I'll be coming down to the Pavilions this Saturday evening as well, but I'm leaving the Pontiacs at home and driving a chevrolet :D Actually coming down for some dyno time in Mesa and then I'll hit the Pavilions on the way back through.

I think I have been to Jerome snce the 80s, just not from that direction ( Mingus mountain ).

This Sat the Arizona Pontiac Power Group has 3 more meet ups planned.
1. The auto swap meet at the state fair grounds
2. our next exploratory road trip
3. cruise night

[Mister Pontiac]

Tomorrow (Sat 24th), the AZ Pontiac Power Group has more meetups happening! Early start with the automotive swap meet @ the Fairgrounds in Phoenix, then a day cruise out west. We're likely headed to the AZ/CA border area via old state Hwy 60 and other assorted and sundry back roads, stopping as we please, as we go, to see whatever catches our fancy! Then tomorrow evening, we're planning to be back in central Phoenix for a local Cruise-In.

Lot's going on, and lots to enjoy with fellow Ponti-addicts here in AZ!

:)

[Mister Pontiac]

Here are a few pics from one of the outings a couple months back (meant to post these earlier). Three of us spent a weekend in the high country of AZ running thru the twisties (sometimes at a rather high rate of speed!) and enjoyed the scenery and adventure as we went. Oh, and of course we camped on the shores of Lyman Lake along the way. This was an 800 mile weekend...

Great times with the AZ Pontiac Power Group! As most of you can relate, Pontiacs are simply integral to our way of life out west...

:D

[GT182]

You guys ought to be thrown in jail for that...... :mad: Cause we can't be out there with yas havin all that fun too. Yeah, it's called OHF envy.... Outback Havin Fun envy. LOL

[Steve Barcak]

We had another really great day today with the Az Pontiac Power group! Early in the am was another auto swap meet. I picked up a pair of billet 35 spline axles for 61-2's and a set of 4 early style American 5 spokes for my 64 GTO. Then, we hopped in Todd's 67 and hit the road and cover several hundred miles in western Az along the Colorado river including London Bridge, Parker dam and over into California for a bit, then a great buffet dinner at a casino in Parker. greatweather and sights along the way, great friends, the best of times :)

[Mister Pontiac]

We had another really great day today with the Az Pontiac Power group! Early in the am was another auto swap meet. I picked up a pair of billet 35 spline axles for 61-2's and a set of 4 early style American 5 spokes for my 64 GTO. Then, we hopped in Todd's 67 and hit the road and cover several hundred miles in western Az along the Colorado river including London Bridge, Parker dam and over into California for a bit, then a great buffet dinner at a casino in Parker. greatweather and sights along the way, great friends, the best of times :)

Indeed! Well stated, Steve. Well stated...

Here's some photographic evidence of today's adventure. Over 400 miles today with REAL Pontiac Power. Couldn't have been any better! With my friends... Steve Barcak and Mechanic Keith.

:D

[Steve Barcak]

Today is the 1st anniversary of the Arizona Pontiac Power Group-

Dedicated to increasing interest, knowledge and camaraderie of the legendary Pontiac
V8.
Over 110 members-
Over 75 activities in the last year ( most active )

Looking forward to our second year! It has been a real pleasure doing things with other members.

[luvmygto]

Steve, just joined. If you guys do the Parker-Yuma-Cali run again I would like to meet up with you folks. The pics are great!

[Steve Barcak]

Steve, just joined. If you guys do the Parker-Yuma-Cali run again I would like to meet up with you folks. The pics are great!


glad you like the pics and welcome to our group!
Today, some of us are in Phoenix having our anniversary pot luck party and Glenn and I are attending the Mooneyes Christmas party at Iwindale, Ca. Lots of things going on here.

Our next automotive archeological hike adventure will be this Tuesday. Going back to the Salt River Canyon area looking for more old cars, trucks, mines and whatever. We have never been disappointed going there as we never know what we will find.

[Steve Barcak]

Here are some pics from the Mooneyes Christmas party at Irwindale-

John Ewald in his AA/Fuel Dragster did a push start and cackled it for the fans along with a few others

http://i927.photobucket.com/albums/ad119/applekrate/6-2.jpg

Here is a '40? chev with a tunnel rammed Poncho for power

http://i927.photobucket.com/albums/ad119/applekrate/7-3.jpg

Glenn Gibbons chooses off against Todd Harding

http://i927.photobucket.com/albums/ad119/applekrate/4-2.jpg

An extra sharp and stock looking '67 Firebird conv is a real sleeper. It can run 11's! There will be a feature on my site soon on this car.

http://i927.photobucket.com/albums/ad119/applekrate/3-3.jpg

Marky Izrdis "Purple People Eater" with blown, injected '56 316 Poncho Power! There also will be a feature on my site for this car soon.

http://i927.photobucket.com/albums/ad119/applekrate/DSCF0102.jpg

[Vet65te]

It's going to be a while before we are able to relocate to Prescott but when that finally happens (a year or so), hope to meet you guys are one of your events.
Mike T.

[Steve Barcak]

It's going to be a while before we are able to relocate to Prescott but when that finally happens (a year or so), hope to meet you guys are one of your events.
Mike T.

We look forward to meeting you as well Mike. You will make a lot of Pontiac friends here in Arizona.

[Steve Barcak]

Happy New Year from the Arizona Pontiac Power Group!
We are kicking off the new year with our next auto archeological exploration hike/adventure tomorrow when we return to the Salt River Canyon area north of Globe.

Who knows what we will find this time???
Then-
Fri night we will be attending a Cruise in at Chandler.
Saturday morning we are off to the Az state fair grounds for the auto swap meet and show.
Then, heading to Firebird Drags strip for a nostalgia event. Good friend Glenn Gibbons will be there with his altered wheelbase injected 421 '64 Lemans
Sunday- it is the auto swap meet at Glendale college.

Always plenty scheduled and happening with Arizona Pontiac Power. Now the largest and most active Pontiac club/group in Arizona! and it is all FREE! No dues, no voting, no normal monthy meetings, just fun , adventurous and cool meet ups.

Join us! sign up now and be part of it. http://www.meetup.com/Arizona-Pontiac-power-group/

Brought to you by fans of Pontiac Power by.

Yours truely, Steve Barcak
AllPontiac.com
Kauffman Racing
WW Williams
Network Service Centers
Glenns Pontiac Garage
Too Hotties Mens Hair cuts
Pontiac Heaven
Quick Guns

We thank them for their support

[Steve Barcak]

http://i927.photobucket.com/albums/ad119/applekrate/hex1-1.jpg

Wow! what a week we have had already!
Wednesday we headed to the Salt River Canyon for our 11th auto archeological exploration hike adventure. Had a great time discovering some more old mines, equipment and some old trails. We found even more and started to close on it but, the darkness was coming and we decided to call it a day. We'll be back in less than 2 weeks.
Saturday was the big auto swap meet at the State fair grounds. Todd and Mark ( at least ) got some great deals.
Then, we headed to Firebird raceway for some nostalgia. Saw Glenn and Clint there and hung out.
Now in the morning is yet another auto swap meet, this time at Glendale college.

[Formulajones]

Sounds like a blast. We love to tinker in the mountains, ghost town hunting, mines, metal detect etc...but prefer to do it in something off road capable (4x4 blazer or sandrail) Is that forbidden with the pontiac group? :D

I'll be at the Pavilions next Saturday for the BJ kickoff cruise, probably in a pontiac. Hopefully the weather holds out. The extended forecast didn't look promising.

[Steve Barcak]

Sounds like a blast. We love to tinker in the mountains, ghost town hunting, mines, metal detect etc...but prefer to do it in something off road capable (4x4 blazer or sandrail) Is that forbidden with the pontiac group? :D

I'll be at the Pavilions next Saturday for the BJ kickoff cruise, probably in a pontiac. Hopefully the weather holds out. The extended forecast didn't look promising.


For the most part, the areas we are exploring have to be made on foot. Some of them could be done on mountain bikes or trail bikes but, as of this time. I am the only one with a trail bike. So, we drive as far as we can and hike the rest of the way. The type of vehicle you describe would not work well. Plus we do not wish to tear things up but, to leave the area the way it was for others to explore in the coming decades.
However, Arizona has a lot of places for the type of vehicles you describe. They are very popular here.

We have a scheduled meet up at the Scotts Pavillions on Sat the 19th.

We hope to be able to meet you.

[Formulajones]

For the most part, the areas we are exploring have to be made on foot. Some of them could be done on mountain bikes or trail bikes but, as of this time. I am the only one with a trail bike. So, we drive as far as we can and hike the rest of the way. The type of vehicle you describe would not work well. Plus we do not wish to tear things up but, to leave the area the way it was for others to explore in the coming decades.
However, Arizona has a lot of places for the type of vehicles you describe. They are very popular here.

We have a scheduled meet up at the Scotts Pavillions on Sat the 19th.

We hope to be able to meet you.

I should have asked that question differently. What I meant to get accross was whether or not you are traveling on dirt roads. Once that enters the picture, my classic cars are out of the picture :D
When it comes to off roading (anything dirt, graded, rocky, rough, or old wagon paths in general) it's strictly the 4x4 or a sandrail for us.

If this is indeed the case, I was wondering if such vehicles are allowed to traverse with the Pontiac group. I ask because some groups (how do I put this nicely) are a bit accentric when it comes to these types of things.

We also park and hike, as sometimes that's the only way to access some of the mines and old towns, alot of the seldom traveled roads are degraded (not maintained). Some of the roads are also just not passable unless you have a high clearance vehicle anyway, stuff the cars were never meant for. If you want to see alot of the history, only a high clearance vehicle will get you off the beaten path in some places.

I never meant to imply we tear things up, actually we are exactly the opposite, we just prefer to use a dedicated vehicle ;) Actually if you saw these old towns in the 70's and early 80's, and then see them now (if anything left at all) it's sickening to see how people have treated it over the years. Destroyed grave sites, walls knocked down and shot full of holes, garbage everywhere etc...Truely sad. We just love to get out, find old wagon trails, sometimes using old geological maps, and see where they take us. Usually all day spent up in the Bradshaws just driving around and taking in the history.

Anyway, I'll be at the Pavilions, we've met before at the Pontiac Heaven event.

[Steve Barcak]

http://i927.photobucket.com/albums/ad119/applekrate/hex1-1.jpg

Here is a pic that Todd took of Mark and I. We are not always on this rugged of terrain, but, are at times. It is normally milder hiking but, we can be quite adventurous. Not sure how many people, if ever, have been where we were here. The whole experience is quite thrilling and fun. The air, the views, the comraderie, etc. Just absolute great times!

http://i927.photobucket.com/albums/ad119/applekrate/Arizona%20Pontiac%20Power/MarkandI.jpg

[Steve Barcak]

http://i927.photobucket.com/albums/ad119/applekrate/hex1-1.jpg

I can understand if all your Pontiacs are cherry and one wishes not to get them dirty but, I like to drive them. In the winter, it is time for snow tires and to head for the snow for some fun!

http://i927.photobucket.com/albums/ad119/applekrate/Accesspage13-10013.jpg
I am itching real bad now to hit the slopes with my snowboard, gotta do it soon.

Here we are last year on what would be called a quad trail in my '66 GTO.

http://i927.photobucket.com/albums/ad119/applekrate/abandoned%20cars/600_107675202.jpg

This is one of the roads we travel. I have no issues taking this with my GTO. We could not make it last week in the Bonneville because of fairly fresh snow, mudd and a one legger rear. Next trip, we take my GTO in there.

http://i927.photobucket.com/albums/ad119/applekrate/abandoned%20cars/600_92247492.jpg

[Steve Barcak]

http://i927.photobucket.com/albums/ad119/applekrate/hex1-1.jpg

Of course, you are most welcome with whatever you drive. I hope it is at least American but, you can drive whatever you wish. On some of our drives, we do want Pontiac power but, it is not practical to require that for trips like this. However, we take Pontiac power anyway almost all the time, even here.

I should have asked that question differently. What I meant to get accross was whether or not you are traveling on dirt roads. Once that enters the picture, my classic cars are out of the picture :D
When it comes to off roading (anything dirt, graded, rocky, rough, or old wagon paths in general) it's strictly the 4x4 or a sandrail for us.

If this is indeed the case, I was wondering if such vehicles are allowed to traverse with the Pontiac group. I ask because some groups (how do I put this nicely) are a bit accentric when it comes to these types of things.

We also park and hike, as sometimes that's the only way to access some of the mines and old towns, alot of the seldom traveled roads are degraded (not maintained). Some of the roads are also just not passable unless you have a high clearance vehicle anyway, stuff the cars were never meant for. If you want to see alot of the history, only a high clearance vehicle will get you off the beaten path in some places.

I never meant to imply we tear things up, actually we are exactly the opposite, we just prefer to use a dedicated vehicle ;) Actually if you saw these old towns in the 70's and early 80's, and then see them now (if anything left at all) it's sickening to see how people have treated it over the years. Destroyed grave sites, walls knocked down and shot full of holes, garbage everywhere etc...Truely sad. We just love to get out, find old wagon trails, sometimes using old geological maps, and see where they take us. Usually all day spent up in the Bradshaws just driving around and taking in the history.

Anyway, I'll be at the Pavilions, we've met before at the Pontiac Heaven event.

It sounds like we would get along real well. :)

[Formulajones]

I get along with about any car guy, I'm a bonified car nut, my wife will tell ya :D

I love the pontiacs but also own some other brands so I'm a little diverse. Basically I just enjoy most any car from the 50's/60's/early 70's. Been around pontiacs my whole life though, my father bought a 69 goat new and still owns it today so it rubbed off on me.

Beautiful scenery, I can't get enough of that stuff around here, love this state. My hats off to you for taking the cars back there. My stuff is either original unrestored (original paint) survivors that still show very nice, or restored cars that show well at local shows, so naturally they are stictly paved road vehicles to preserve them as much as I can. I still drive them frequently, and make the trip to Phoenix in them on a regular basis, definately not afraid to put miles on them, and even occasional trips to the track.

I'll probably drive my Formula down to the Pavillions Saturday.

[Steve Barcak]

The Arizona Pontiac Power Group is heading back to the Salt River Canyon area this Saturday for our 12th auto archeological hike/adventure....
Who knows what we may find?

[Steve Barcak]

The Arizona Pontiac Power Group is heading back to the Salt River Canyon area this Saturday for our 12th auto archeological hike/adventure....
Who knows what we may find?

We had another really great adventure deep into some remote areas in Arizona. Visiting mines and places that no one has probably been to in decades. Neat stuff.
Here is a link to where some pics are if interested-

http://www.meetup.com/ac-christians-176/photos/13209592/

[Steve Barcak]

Here are some more pics of our last exploratory hike/adventure. This first pic shows 5 of the 8 of us who attended. This crane type structure is on the side of a cliff and must have been used to lift ore from the cliff openings below. There is also a few buildings in the immediate area so, this was some sort of main area. That's Mechanic Keith on the right.

http://i927.photobucket.com/albums/ad119/applekrate/highres_205809522_zpsd9b965de.jpg

This mine was on the side of a steep cliff face. It appears a ledge was cut out to access this area where there are 2 mines. This are is pretty remote and I guess no one has been here in many decades. The views are incredible but, you need to be very careful as it drops right off. Some of our group opted not to go here but, most of us did and we are glad we did. Since we were there, we took a break and had a soda and some food. It would be a neat place to camp out or to see a storm but, is a bit scary to get to. Also, the ceiling appeared to be in poor condition structually.

http://i927.photobucket.com/albums/ad119/applekrate/highres_205813652_zps51dc1c24.jpg

This pic is of me and one of my dogs deep inside a mine. This part of the adventure was later in the day and most of the group were too pooped to keep going. Todd and myself decided to continue to explore this mine that I found last time. Todd had found the foundations and other clues higher up the side of the mountain last year and I was expecting something big. We were not disapointed. We were not able to find out how deep this mine was. It just kept going and going into the mountain! It seems to be in excellent condition structurally compared to some of the other mines but, still creepy going in that deep. On our next trip, we plan to investigate this mine completely. It is my guess that this is the oldest mine wew have yet to explore.




http://i927.photobucket.com/albums/ad119/applekrate/highres_205814332_zpsf3e4914a.jpg

Todd and I found this late in the day at this large mine we were exploring for the first time. At first we thought of it as graffitti. Then, we realized a few things. 1st. we doubted anyone had been here in many decades. 2nd, it is written in scrip. That has not been common for many decades either. We cannot be sure, but, guessing this was the location of an on the job death and was put up as a warning and/or tribute to other miners. There is a skull and crossbones at the lower left and the mans name and is dated 1936. We will return to this mine soon and investigate further.

http://i927.photobucket.com/albums/ad119/applekrate/highres_205814462_zps0b7a4626.jpg

All in all, this was a very fullfilling adventure hike/exploration. We covered a few area we had failed to get to in the past and it answered some of our questions. We are really getting to know the area.


__________________

[Mister Pontiac]

Yeah, what a great adventure this hike was! I really enjoy exploring in Arizona, and of course going on these adventures in our Pontiacs and sharing them with good friends makes it fantastic!

:)

[Steve Barcak]

Tomorrow, March 2, the Arizona Pontiac Power Group/Club reaches a milestone as we will have our 100th planned event. Our cllub is now 15 months old and has 120 members and we have already had 98 events! Talk about active! We also have tons of photos and some great discussion threads too.
Thanks to all our members who have participated!
Looking forward to tomorrows adventure hike and the next 100 events as well.

[Gator67]

Thank you Steve, and co-organizers Keith and Todd. I haven't been able to hang out with the group as much as I'd like to because of work, family commitments, and various projects, but it's been fun, and a great way to connect with Pontiac people in the valley. I appreciate the effort you put into it.

[Jack Gifford]

This is a very entertaining thread. Keep on postin', Steve, Keith, and others.

[Steve Barcak]

This is a very entertaining thread. Keep on postin', Steve, Keith, and others.

Will do Jack.

One week from Saturday, April 13, the Arizona Pontiac Power Group will have spaces reserved for the annual spring Central cruise.
We now have 124 members!

[mechanickeith]

125 membars!!!

[Steve Barcak]

125 membars!!!


It looks like we are both wrong Keith. We have 126 members now! :)

[Steve Barcak]

hmmm, now we have 127 members. Anyway, today some of us attended one of the auto swap meets and I picked up a timing cover and an intake along with a few vintage airplane kits. It was worth the trip out there.
Now, we are getting ready for the big Central cruise this Saturday! The Arizona Pontiac Power Group has a row reserved and will well reppresent Pontiac horsepower at the event ( that is our mission among other things ). We will also be promoting the Pontiac Heaven and Nostalgic Show & GO! events too.
It is going to be a fun day on Central ave.

[OZZIEVILLE 67 2 door]

I wish I was there enjoying the fun..
joined the Arizona club today ,like the albums :ausflag:

[Steve Barcak]

I wish I was there enjoying the fun..
joined the Arizona club today ,like the albums :ausflag:

Welcome to our group! If we had a distance award, you would be the winner for sure.

[Steve Barcak]

Coming up on October 12, the Arizona Pontiac Power Group will be out in force showcasing Pontiac Power at the fall Central Cruise. This is one of the largest cruise in shows in Arizona and I will make sure that Pontiac power is well represented!

More info coming..

[Steve Barcak]

Last Saturday, we made the road trip to the Verde Valley area of Cottonwood,Clarkdale and rode on the Verde Canyon Railroad. It was a lot of fun and great weather made it all the better.

http://i927.photobucket.com/albums/ad119/applekrate/on%20the%20road/Verde-Canyon-Railroad1_zpsd297b955.jpg (http://s927.photobucket.com/user/applekrate/media/on%20the%20road/Verde-Canyon-Railroad1_zpsd297b955.jpg.html)

[Formulajones]

Some of that runs behind my house (where it turns around near Perkinsville)

We ride in the sandrail back there fairly often, beautiful scenery all around that area.

Glad you enjoyed it.

[Steve Barcak]

This weekend, many of us attended the Good Guys event in Scottsdale. I went on Friday.
This coming week, we will have a club space at the Todd Harding Swap meet at the state fair grounds.

[Formulajones]

We also went down Friday and spent the day. We planned to hit the swap meet next Saturday as well but a prior appointment at Ben Avery will be taking up my time. I may however head to a local cruise later in the evening while I'm in Phoenix.

[GRAND PRIX STEVE]

This thread is killing me since I winter in Fountain Hills, AZ. while my G.P. sits idle back in Ohio! One of these years.....