Tue, 21 Nov 2006 13:28:45 -0700 http://www.goattraks.com/ Pontiac Powered Site!! en-us http://www.goattraks.com/images/logo.gif http://www.goattraks.com/ publicbrent@brentg.net http://www.goattraks.com/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=20 As I am sure many have noticed the site has gone, more or less, without an update for some time now. Well, truth be told I have been working on a move and upgrade. I was told by our provider that they were closing down just after the first of the year due to problems at the hosting site. The search was on for a new home!! I ended up going with godaddy.com. Once the new provider was selected I began the task of moving all of our content (articles, pictures, etc) as well as the software the actually powered the site. After the move was completed I started to look at upgrading things as it had been some time since that had been done. There are a few visual changes when looking at the "new" site but things are, more or less, the same. Rest assured that even though the paint looks almost the same all the stuff under the hood is shiny and new. In the future I would like to revisit the site design and color scheme as well as add some more content. That, however, will have to wait till after the holidays. Stay tuned. By the way. As I had to take some time to update the site what is here today is based on an older (about 4 weeks old) snapshot of the previous site. If you changed a password in that time it will not be here. Logon with the old password and re-change it. As such posts in the forums in that time would not have made the transition. Sorry about all that folks!! Tue, 21 Nov 2006 13:28:45 -0700 http://www.goattraks.com/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=19 The most current, as of 6/29/06, Schedule of Events is now available!!! See it here!! See you in Louisville!! Brent Thu, 29 Jun 2006 22:51:41 -0700 http://www.goattraks.com/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=18 JUST A FEW SPACES LEFT! ENTRY FORM DUE DATE EXTENDED! For all you Pontiac owners who are attending the GTOAA Nats in Louisville, KY. now is your chance to participate in an HPP Pavement Pounders Shootout. The shootout is open to all Pontiac models and will be held on Thursday July 13, 2006 to coincide with the Jim Wangers' Invitational race sponsored by High Performance Pontiac magazine. To enter, please complete the shootout entry form found on the “Shootout” section at highperformancepontiac.com and forward it to Mike Radke at conventions@GTOAAA.org along with a couple of low resolution digital photos of your Pontiac. If you are chosen, you will be notified prior to the event. All entries must be received by June 30th, 2006. Wanna see your Pontiac on the pages of HPP? Here is your opportunity! Wed, 28 Jun 2006 08:52:15 -0700 http://www.goattraks.com/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=17 For all you Pontiac owners who are attending the GTOAA Nats in Louisville KY, now is your chance to participate in an HPP Pavement Pounders Shootout. The shootout will be held on Thursday July 13, 2006 to coincide with the Jim Wangers’ Invitational race sponsored by High Performance Pontiac magazine. To enter, please complete the shootout entry form contained in the “Shootout” section of the highperformancepontiac.com web site and forward it to Mike Radke at convention@GTOAAA.org along with a couple of low res. digital photos of your Pontiac. If you are chosen, you will be notified prior to the event. All entries must be received by June 9, 2006. Wanna' see your Pontiac on the pages of HPP? Here is your opportunity! The racing will be held at Ohio Valley Dragway Thursday July 13th.  Specific times to be posted soon!! Thu, 01 Jun 2006 21:55:20 -0700 http://www.goattraks.com/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=16 Planning for the '06 GTOAA Nationals is moving along smoothly.  The Louisville chapter would like to pass along thanks to the Indy GTO Association for offering their assistance at this year's nationals.  Some members of the Indy chapter made the trek to Louisville for our April meeting so as to come up to speed on the event.  Again, our thanks goes out to them.  Speaking of the Indy GTO Association I would suggest that you check out their "Day at the Track" car show to be held August 12 at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.  Come out, enjoy the company, and, as a part of the event, lap the track!!  Any Pontiac '78 and earlier. All GTO's, Firebirds and Fieros are welcome.  Click Here For Information!!! Please check out the Nats Info page as updates have been made!!  Specifically all committee heads have been listed so that you can contact the correct chapter member should you have questions concerning some aspect of the event. The Event Schedule has also been updated.  We suggest you check it out.  Don't forget to check back as we will be filling in other events as plans are finalized. We would also like to take this opportunity to welcome some of our sponsors. Pontiac-GMC Division of GM - Pepsi Cola - Performance Years - Ames Performance Engineering - Arrowhead Performance Brent Tue, 04 Apr 2006 22:16:44 -0700 http://www.goattraks.com/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=15 I have late February updates I wanted to get out concerning the GTOAA Nationals.   First off I recently learned that I did not post the complete set of registration forms.  The second page went missing some place is the shuffle.  No problem, its up now and can be found HERE.  Make sure you print, fill out, and mail in both pages. Next I have posted the form to use if you would like to reserve advertisement space in the 2006 GTOAA Nationals Event Program.  That form can be found HERE. I also urge you to check out the archive of Legend Articles that can be found HERE for online copies of the very same articles printed monthly in the Legend.  I will have articles online long before they hit print so check them out. As always I suggest to check the Nats Info Page often as that is your one stop shopping soruce of 2006 GTOAA Nationals information.. Brent Mon, 27 Feb 2006 21:04:43 -0700 http://www.goattraks.com/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=14 Lots of good things to pass along for February concerning the '06 GTOAA Nationals!  First off I want to urge everyone to check back as often as possible for the latest information concerning the Nats.  The hottest news of the moment will be posted right here on the home page.  All of that information will also appear on the Nats Info Page so that there will be a long term single point of reference.  There will be updates in the Legend, of course.  However, given that the Legend is only distributed monthly and the fact that articles need to be submitted several weeks before publication it makes sense that Nats information could be rather dated.  Bottom line....check back as often as you can for the latest news, updates on events, and general information that will make your trip to Louisville a great one. Now for the updates.  The Nats Info Page has been updated to include contact information for the various areas of responsibility concerning the Nats.  If you have questions concerning a specific aspect of the Nationals please contact the person responsible for that area.  This will help us answer questions and pass along information as quickly as possible.  On the  Nats Info Page you will also find links to Registration Form and Event Schedule.  Both of these are viewable online and are downloadable.  Please check back often to review changes as events may be added.  Now would be a good time to mention the we are currently working scheduling several tours to unique to Louisville attractions.  If we are able to add these tours we will update the Event Schedule accordingly as well as adding additional information to the Registration Form should you wish to pre-register. I also have some hotel news to pass along.  We are quickly filling rooms at the host hotel Executive West.  No problem!!  We have a block of rooms ready to go in Executive West's sister hotel Executive Inn.  Executive Inn is located across the street from Executive West so there is no need to be concerned with transportation between the two sites as they are easily within walking distance.  There is no change is how you would reserve a room.  Simply check the Nats Info Page for reservation information.  If need be you will automatically be offered an Executive Inn room at the same rates. Want to see what the Nats venue looks like?  From the air?  Not a problem!!  Check out the Nats Info Page for the link to a satellite view of the venue.  The map is "drag-able" with the left mouse button so that you can explore the Louisville. And finally some more or less useless non-car related info I like to include from time to time for fun..plus, well, I will admit this time it is a little self serving!!!  Have you played Atari today!?!?  Atari?  You mean that old video game system from the late 70's and early 80's?  Yup that's the one the 2600.  The very system most 30-somethings (and plus) remember playing.  Ever wonder what happened to them?  I mean they were everywhere, they owned the market, how could they just disappear?  Here is a little insight into a familiar friend.  Believe it or not the 2600 and its sister game consoles live on in the hearts of many.  Many folks like I collect and maintain these old systems much like Pontiac hobbyists collect and maintain old Ponchos.  Who would have thunk it!!  Collecting old games is similar to what many, including myself,  feel about old cars in that we get to stay connected with our past while, in many cases, we get to experience something we could not attain in younger years.  I will also admit old games are MUCH cheeper, easier to store, and easier to maintain than old cars but I would still trade them all in a minute for my Pontiacs.  If any one out there has similar interest or an old game system (Atari or otherwise) in an attic or garage they would like to get rid of I would love to hear from you.  Drop me a line!!! Brent Wed, 15 Feb 2006 16:12:36 -0700 http://www.goattraks.com/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=13 I know, I know, it has been a while since the last update.  Sorry about that! First off I wanted to provide some updates concerning the 2006 GTO Nationals.  It has come to our attention that there was a minor "glitch" in the unified reservation system used by the host hotel and some of its sister facilities.  We had reports of folks getting wildly different answers to the same, simple, questions.  We also had reports of incorrect rate quotes and room availability issues.  As far as we know that has been corrected.  The correct room rate is $85 a night.  If we will the hotel then the overflow is to go into the Executive Inn which is located directly across the street.  If anyone experiences any issues please contact Bernard Watts or Pam Greenwell.  Their contact info can be found on the Nats info page.  Beyond that I suggest that you check back often for the latest information.  Soon we will posting a rather lengthy restaurant guide to the area that will assist you in planning your stay in Louisville. Those coming with trailers should pay special attention.  We are feverously working on lining out the trailer storage and loading/unloading area aspect of the event.  I know I hate arriving at a show not having a clue what facilities are available to deal with my trailer and gear.  As soon as details are finalized we will post the information to help in alleviating the surprise of arriving cold. Brent Sun, 15 Jan 2006 21:33:47 -0700 http://www.goattraks.com/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=12 I know folks have been waiting for hotel info concerning the 2006 GTOAA Nationals.  Well, its here!!  Click here to go to the Information page.  Please remember to check back often as we will update this page as things develop concerning the Nationals.  To access the GTOAA Nats information page (the same page as linked above) at any time just click the information page link in the 2006 GTOAA Nats box found in the upper left hand corner of this site. I am sure there will be quite a few folks trailering to the Nationals.  There are several in the club with open trailers, and a few with enclosed.  I for one know, as I am sure many of you know, the "fun" involved in loading the car, strapping it down, balancing the trailer, deciding what to take, and finally securing all of your accessories.  A lot of work and stress before you even pull it the first foot!!  Well, when the time comes around to pack up for the trip to Louisville try to keep this exercise in assisted vehicle relocation in mind.  We don't hold a candle to these guys. Brent Mon, 12 Sep 2005 13:47:22 -0700 http://www.goattraks.com/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=11 Well folks, the US is back in the saddle again!! With the launch of Discovery we are back in space.  Not necessarily car related news but good news none the less.  For those looking for some auto related tid-bits mark August 4th on your calendar, fans of NASCAR driver Jeff Gordon can celebrate his birthday.  There is a 2 for 1 the 8th of August which covers both my space theme and the auto industry.  The 8th marks the anniversary of the death of James B. Irwin, pilot of the Lunar Roving Vehicle used to explore the surface of the moon during the Apollo 15 mission in 1971.  August is also a special month for Firebird fans as the last episode of Knight Rider aired in August 1986.  LONG LIVE KITT!!   Back at home I encourage folks to keep an eye on our Calendar of Events.  There is a lot going on this summer, don't miss out.  I would like to bring some special attention to a new show being held at Beechland Baptist Church.  The show is August 20th, details can be found here.  All proceeds go to help pay for improvements at the church.  Save for our cruises this month I believe it will be the Fiero's 2nd outing! Brent Tue, 26 Jul 2005 23:38:09 -0700 http://www.goattraks.com/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=10 July is upon us!  Right now it is a few days past the 4th.  I still have all of my fingers, hope the same for you.  Our crew has returned from the GTO Nationals so I am sure we will have a lot to discuss at this month's meeting (Sunday July 10th).  Come out and visit (member or not, come and say Hi!).  I am sure, based on conversations and posts made in the Discussion Forums, that there will also be plenty of conversation concerning club participation in many of the large shows coming up in the next few months. Now for some interesting reading.  Think it is hard getting tools together to work on a car?  Check this out. Brent Sat, 09 Jul 2005 11:01:47 -0700 http://www.goattraks.com/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=9 Just a few quick words to kick off the month of June.  Don't forget our car cruises this month.  The first is Friday the 10th, the second is Friday the 17th.  Information and a link to a map can be found HERE. A couple of important events to think about this month.  Not necessarily car related but important none the less.  First off June is the anniversary month of the first American space walk. The walk was made by Ed White on June 3rd 1965.  Unfortunately the Russians beat us at having the first human space walk, but hay, who made it to the Moon?  Read all about it  HERE. Secondly, June 9th is the recognized birthday for one of America's favorite characters, Donald Duck.  Lets all wish Donald a Happy Birthday! Brent Wed, 08 Jun 2005 11:20:55 -0700 http://www.goattraks.com/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=8 Bill Receveur has reported back in concerning the success of the Mission Driven car show held last weekend (5/28).  Approximately $6,700 was raised!!  Thanks for all that were able to attend and donate.  The show supports a great cause.  The show staff has had a little time to get together and have aired some suggestions for 2006.  Those include more classes, some more trash cans (Which I see as a good thing, a need for more trash means more people and more cars!!), and perhaps a swap meet.  Please shoot Bill an e-mail if you attended and have some suggestions. Club member Pan Greenwell reported that we won the Club Participation award with 14 registered cars.  Beyond that there were several members that came out to show their support.  The Godbey's had a great showing, unfortunately not in a Pontiac!?!?!  They brought a long their beautiful black, dare I say the word on this site, Chevy truck. Now for some site news.  I have been adding more pictures to the Gallery.  Three new cars have been added (A Bonneville, a GP, and a new Fiero) plus updates have been made in the gallery of 2005 Carl Casper's Custom Auto Show pictures.  In the near future look for some technical articles to appear.  I have 3 detailed articles from the old (old, old) site that I am converting over to the new format.  Right now I am about half way through the conversion. Brent Tue, 31 May 2005 10:14:02 -0700 http://www.goattraks.com/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=7 We are fast coming up on the 3rd annual "Mission Driven" car show at St. Francis in the Fields Episcopal Church.  The date is Saturday May 28th with a rain date of Monday may 30th.  This show is organized by club member Bill Receveur to benefit mission work carried out by St. Francis in the Fields.  The show is free however we do ask that you make a donation to the mission team.  This is always a great show!!  The flyer with the complete run down can be found here. Brent Thu, 19 May 2005 10:17:06 -0700 http://www.goattraks.com/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=6 Well folks the picture gallery is pretty much completed.  I have a couple of things to go.  First is a few more shots of Carl Casper's 05 from a fellow member I have sitting in my in-box, second is the rest of the gallery of my TA.  We even have our first Fiero over in the Member's Garage.  As of today the counts are: 3 top-level albums (52 total), 360 images.  In other words, a lot of work!! Brent Thu, 31 Mar 2005 21:24:56 -0700 http://www.goattraks.com/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=5 I have posted my Carl Casper’s pictures over in the Picture Galley. Stop in and take a look. On that note I am working on recovering the rest of the original, pre crash, photo gallery. I am going through the directories one by one and checking all of the images. Many of them are OK, but quite a few are missing pictures, have corrupted pictures, or are totally trashed. In those cases I am going back to my originals and re-making the pictures. Brent Thu, 17 Mar 2005 09:22:06 -0700 http://www.goattraks.com/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=4 I know, I know, no update for quite some time.  Hay, I do what I can!!  On that note, if there is anyone out there willing to lend a hand I am open to volunteers.  I have already had someone step up and ask to have access to update the calendar which I was more than happy to set up.  Just that is quite a load off especially when you consider shows rolling full swing during the summer. Anyway, the reason for this update, Carl Casper's Custom Auto Show.  As I am sure folks are aware we are in.  Go Here to access the show's web page.  They list show times and cost.  The club display will be located in the West Wing.  The display is modeled to appear as a garage complete with typical garage amenities and, well, clutter.  We also have an extensive "garage" soundtrack for the complete experience.  I think we will be hard to miss.  See you there. Brent Wed, 23 Feb 2005 09:42:19 -0700 http://www.goattraks.com/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=3 Well, we’re in!! Members began to get acceptance letters last week so we are a go. Work on the club display has ramped up accordingly. Please drop us a line if you would like to help. We are meeting Sunday nights around 6:00PM and working for a few hours. Basically we are putting together the major components to get them out of the way so that we only have to deal with some assembly then the finishing touches at the show. Also, if you have any car/Pontiac/GTO/Firebird music you would like to donate please contact me. I am putting together some music for the show and am looking for tracks. No, I will not keep your CD!! On that note, I am also in need of some speakers. If anyone has an old stereo lying around they have been meaning to get rid of that would be a perfect candidate for a speaker donation. I have the receiver covered, we just need some "old garage" speakers we can make part of the display (IE potentially decorate). Thanks, Brent Tue, 25 Jan 2005 10:45:48 -0700 http://www.goattraks.com/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=2 A reminder from a exalted leader!! Our Jan. Club meeting will be this Sunday, the 2nd at Ryan’s on Preston Hwy at usual time. Hope all can make it. Paul called and said he and Chuck were having technical problems with the Newsletter so there probably will not be one before the meeting this Sunday so I wanted to remind everyone since it is so close to the Holiday. Hope to see you there, Brent Thu, 30 Dec 2004 10:38:07 -0700 http://www.goattraks.com/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=1 I took some do’ in but things are on their way back. The crash was, in a word, horrendous. Much was lost and will have to be recreated by hand. The basic site function is back. Forums, calendar, software to present basic information, picture gallery, etc. The framework is there but most everything will have to be recreated for what raw data we were able to save. Bear with me. In other words, sit tight, spend time in the forums staying in touch with you fellow online car enthusiasts and let me work on things as I can. Keep “can we have..” or “what happened to..” questions to a minimum if not non existent. And yes, you have to re-register your ID. Sorry, the user database was trashed. Thanks, Brent Wed, 08 Dec 2004 14:56:52 -0700