HIGHLIGHTS:
 

1. Our newest solo pilot, Mak Balucas, knew he would do it some day soon and he fulfilled on his promise to me. He studied hard, flew well, accepted being pushed hard to excel, and finally, today, he became a pilot. We all send our CONGRATULATIONS, MAK, for a task well done. For the moment, revel in your accomplishment, and remember today for your lifetime. It was especially nice for Mak because his Dad (Marc), Mom (Marcee), and Grandmother (Linda) were on hand to wish him well.

The first two review flights were not superb because it was obvious Mak was a bit nervous. So accepting that fact, I knew he'd do well once on his own. It was no difficulty to let him solo since he had done so well last week on his only three flights to pattern altitude. No question this time as each flight was smooth and precise as the others. And he managed his energy to arrive all the way back to the launch area. Good show, Mak.

2. CCSC had another Board of Directors meeting today and covered some issues that had arisen since the last meeting. All the members of the board were present and discussion was lively.

3. Peter Sahlberg flew one practice checkride flight with the expected maneuvers and did well. He's ready for the flight portion of the checkride and probably pretty close to being ready for the oral as well.

4. Bart Klusek also is nearing his checkride and flew one practice flight with me. Alex will sign him off for his license and we all wish him the best on his checkride. Bart, by the way, usually arrives late Friday evening and early Saturday morning is up and preparing gliders, cleaning things up, and generally extremely helpful around the clubhouse, something most members wouldn't notice unless they saw how things were before Bart arrived. Thanks, Bart for all your help.

5. Andrea Mersino helped out everywhere including helping Mak with his solo launches and giving him moral support. Andrea is also getting close to her checkride, so perhaps by Christmas we'll be celebrating three of our members as Licensed Pilots.

6. Richard Walker and Peter Sahlberg were assembling Richard's Schweizer 1-35. They didn't get to fly it but Peter learned about the assembly in the process. It may be that Peter and Richard will become partners in that glider, a move that would be good for both of them.

7. Because of the meager lift, most of those on hand for the Board Meeting didn't fly. Still it was a nice day, cool, and mostly smooth air that made for a perfect time to solo.