HIGHLIGHTS:
 

1. Not a spectacular day for soaring but a good one for training. Both Jeff Lowe and Peter Sahlberg were there to improve their skills and the steady strong wind almost down the runway proved to be good for judging how far not to go on downwind.

2. Norm Lambert, a neighbor of Mario Crosina's decided his long-time ambition to become a licensed pilot had been put off too many times. So he contacted Mario, and both came to Avenal today to get Norm started on his training. First up, though, was a demo flight by Mario and both had a nice long flight showing Norm how much fun it is to fly a glider. WELCOME TO THE CLUB, NORM !!!!

3. Jeff Lowe continued his training and had the chance to see what a strong wind does to glider operations. He did well, didn't go too far downwind, aimed for the middle of the runway and landed safely each time. Nice going, Jeff. You're getting close to solo. Now you need an FAA Student license, and a T-shirt you can be proud to see hanging on the wall of the clubhouse.

4. Peter Sahlberg needed a renewal of his solo privileges and got it today. It was also a good time to practice strong wind landings and he did well. We have a number of pilots in the club nearing their check rides. Peter is one of them, Jerry Badal, Richard Walker, and Jack Wiegand. Sure would like to see all of them get licensed before August. It can be done, so let's all work hard, pass the tests and be proud getting that nice lifetime Pilot's License.

5. The high performance guys were out flying today. Mario Crosina, Steve Schery, and Paul Hanson all launched and were gone for a good while. It was a nice day for soaring, especially in a high performance ship, getting up into the mountains, and working either the shear line or the thermals out of the canyons.

6. Joe Anastasio flew the Blanik today. Didn't remain aloft for too long but had a nice flight. That, after he works on the equipment on behalf of the club. There aren't too many folks who work harder on behalf of the club than Joe. Thanks, Joe

7. Peter Mersino did a "Mud Run" and Lemoore, had time to get to Avenal, then after flight operations ceased Peter and family, and I headed for Harris Ranch for a bite to eat, then they went swimming in the resort pool. Nice way to end the day.