Mike Stinson, First visit to Barrett Jackson, Scottsdale

     My first experience at traveling out west to Arizona. I had been to Arizona once before but my stay was limited. In 2002 , I had the opportunity to fly my plane that I sold (Maule M7-235C) to a gentlemen at the Deer Valley airport. My stay was limited at the Airport , because all I did was to fly home and look for another plane. Which I later purchased a Twin Baron. But this time, I got to enjoy the sights with my compadre, Ken ROOKE, Mr. Wikipedia on classic, muscle, European sport, hot rods, you name it, he walks, breathes,  sleeps (only after his elixir) Fine AUTOMOBILES. Arizona, what can I say, can I move there. Such an incredible atmosphere. 

   

Ken arrived at the airport after his journey driving in from Cali. We wasted no time, checked in at the hotel and went straight to the Russo and Steele Auction. That was Thursday evening. I was impressed with the non authentic cars going for 25-45k, they looked the part and I am sure made they sellers happy. The car that stole the show briefly was a 1960 Convt. Caddy. It brought 50k. and was gorgeous. I was shocked. The buyer was in his late 20s but
loved that car. After the auction we ventured over in the sellers pit area under the tent to get a better look at the cars. Some cars were very nice, some drivers, some investment, but I knew I was in for a treat, because tomorrow was Barrett-Jackson.. 

     Friday we were off to the races, just before noon. Incredible day and had the wonderful opportunity to meet Kens brother, Dan Rooke. What a wonderful time with each aficionado of two men who know, love and understand cars. We spent the day at Barrett-Jackson , and the money went thru the roof.. The cars that seemed to do the best were the RESTOMODS. These were mid 60s,

corvettes, camaros, novas, chevelles, cudas, challengers, you name it.. these cars done right were in the 125k to 250k. Spent 3 days, looking at every car imaginable. From Volkswagon 21 window bus (thing sold for 125k) to Bugatti,, sweet, 4 million... and everything in between. Saturday was even better, drove our Stage 1 67 Camaro with a Tremec 6sp. , thing was nasty , but nothing was more eye appealing than JESSE ROOKE and his patina early 70s step side P/U truck... this thing rocks the pavement with a twin turbo charged, dialed down 800hp, could produce 1000HP,, it is beyond Nasty and will totally wipe your socks off. I had 400 HP and couldn't even keep up to his exhaust fumes.. the suspension was tight and makes the difference in getting the HP to the pavement... I was in total awe.

Arizona here I come..