Mesquite Beetle
​Welcome to my journey

I'm Gary "Beetle" Bailey and I'd like to share a little of my world and craft of Wood Turning.  Nestled in the foothills of the Santa Rita Mountains in Southern Arizona, I've developed a passion for turning and working with Mesquite Wood.  I hope you enjoy your visit half as much as I enjoy working with this beautiful and challenging wood. ​

Family and Life Style

I've been married to the most wonderful woman in the world for 26 years, Miss Pam.  Between us, we have 3 great kids, Heather, Ryan, and Erin. We've been in our dream home for 10 years which is located in the foothills of the Santa Rita Mountains in Southern Arizona.  We're on 5 1/2 acres at 4000 ft MSL and enjoy city views of the Tucson Valley, Southern AZ mountains, and wildlife that includes Mountain Lions, Deer, Bobcats, Coyotes, Foxes, and dozens of bird life. 
Flying and Ham Radio
With help from Miss Pam, our Son, and a great flying buddy, we completed the the construction of our RV7A over 17 years ago.  Aerobatic and with a cruise speed of 200 MPH, we've literally been all over the lower 48 states.  I'm also a Ham Radio Operator with a station call of ( K7GSB ).  I'm also  a member of the Green Valley Amateur Radio Club ( GVARC.US ) 
A little fun flying in Southern Arizona
Sit back, buckle up and enjoy a video from Tucson International Airport while cruising the Southern Arizona Desert.

My Early Beginnings

I'm also retired from the USAF, flew F-4s (the reason I go by "Beetle"). My USAF background includes Tactical Reconnaissance in the RF4C, Operational Flight Test, Automated Mission Planning Development, and C2 Battle Management. I am now fully retired and can focus on my many hobbies.

Wood Turning Mentor and Inspiration

I'd longed to start wood turning but it was a close friend from my Air Force RF-4C Recce days that set my passion in gear 6 years ago.  Ric Erkes, an RF-4C, F15 and Jet Blue pilot has been wood turning for over 30 years. I enjoy his work ( itsricsturn.com ) and appreciate him taking me "under his wing".  I can't thank him enough for his time, talent, and inspiration.
Astrophotography and Southern Arizona Sunsets
Whether it's sunrise, sunset or just enjoying the night air while star gazing, Living in Southern Arizona is truly a beautiful way of life.  
A Few Pics of Our Expanding Family of Smokey and Bandit
Bandit is now 3 years old and little "Smokey" just turned 2".