HIGHLIGHTS:
 

1. Well, it was a rather unusual day for mid-November. We had more visitors than even a few warm summer days thanks to both Lemoore NAS and Steve Schery. The NAS folks included Ashley Bower and Audrey Peterman, both FA-18 pilots stationed at Lemoore NAS. Audrey is already a licensed glider pilot and Ashley was experiencing his first glider flight. We have been fortunate to have had visits from quite a number of Navy personnel, including those who have joined our club. So perhaps Ashley and Audrey will join and become part of our fun times here at Avenal.

2. Steve Schery had a nice contingent come out for their glider flights. Those in attendance were Barb Milet, Jim Porzak, Simon Porzak, Wolfgang Weber, and Al Amsbaugh. Steve flew all the flights in the Blanik while we flew the Blue Whale. So it worked out well and Loyal had enough tows to make it worthwhile.

3. After towing all the gliders to the launch area, Jack Wiegand finally got to fly in late afternoon. We went aloft to refresh his procedures and make sure no bad habits had crept into his skill set. He did well, and although only a little lift was available he still managed to enjoy the air time.

4. Jerry Smeltzer flew the 1-26 and came back reporting no lift available. That was essentially true except for some weak lift over and around the newly planted fields northwest of the gliderport.

5. Joe Anastasio was around all day helping out, changing canopies, and repairing tail wheels. Thanks for that Joe because you keep the fleet available for training and demo flights.

6. Richard Walker was at the gliderport again today and once more took to the air in his lovely sailplane the 1-35. He also reported no lift but had a great time flying his glider. He is much more comfortable with each flight and will soon become the resident expert on Schweizer 1-35's.

7. This is the time of the year when training is best. Smooth air, clear skies, very little traffic, and beautiful sunsets. So for those of you who have been putting off your training, now is the time to begin again. Call, email, or just come out for some nice training times.