HIGHLIGHTS:
 

1. Jerry Badal started the quest for his license a number of years ago down in California City with Cindy Brickner's group. Later on, he found out about the CCSC in Avenal and moved his training site here. We're glad he did because, like the rest of our members, we're really glad to have him as a valued member. So now, after all these years, Jerry earned his license. It wasn't that he didn't know enough to pass it. It was the time available outside of job and family priorities. In fact, Jerry passed the written exam with a great score of 98. So, from all of us to you, Jerry, we offer our heartfelt CONGRATULATIONS!!

2. Andrea Mersino came out with her Dad to renew her solo privileges and did so with no difficulty. Now she's legal again for another 90 days. I hope she continues her quest for her license because she is an excellent pilot who deserves to achieve that goal.

3. Pat Perry is another dedicated pilot-in-training who really is working hard to get that license. Pat's progress is excellent and I expect him to be soloing soon. We'll look for that achievement.

4. As you can see from two of the photos, the thermals were everywhere and strong, as well as quite perfectly formed. That made for some great soaring all day long.

5. Doug Staudmeister came out again to continue flying the 2-33 solo with plans to move to the 1-26 when enough flights have been accomplished in the 2-33. He's close to that goal and I would expect him to solo the 1-26 in the next one or two weekends.

6. Jerry Badal surprised us all by coming out again today so soon after getting his license yesterday. But he couldn't stay away from our wonderful soaring site and I think he just wanted to revel in the feeling of having achieved a level of flight most people just dream about.

7. Julie Butler and Morgan Hall arrived today for their second set of training flights. Both are doing very well, with Morgan a bit ahead of Julie because he has been flying hang gliders for many years. And from our Club experience we know that those pilots really make excellent soaring pilots. Morgan is already taking the entire tow with very little difficulty so I expect to see him solo quite soon.

8. Jerry Smeltzer was out again this weekend. Seems he is becoming a more regular attendee since his retirement from Sears. He is most helpful around the club and we're happy to know that he's now retired and can devote most of his free time to club activities, isn't that right, Jerry????