I have been going to airshows for almost 20 years. I've learned a lot about the airshow industry (for a while, I even wanted to get into the airshow industry as a pilot). I have had dreams of Oshkosh, performing in front of a hundred thousand people, me, and my airplane, merging into one being, making the sky my canvas, the airplane my paintbrush.
This airshow is going to be a special one. And although it is a good distance away from me, I am contemplating going. The drive to and from Jacksonville, Florida, can be done within a day, as long as driving is done at night. And although the tickets are $10, it's still not bad. It's something that I am seriously considering going to.
Why am I so bent on attending this airshow?
Alan Henley, the lead pilot for the Aeroshell Flight Team (which I have had the joy to see three times since moving here to Florida), was in a tragic accident at home not too long ago. The accident left him paralyzed from the chest down. It gutted his flying career. But it has not gutted his love for aviation. And the love the industry has for him is also unwavering. The airshow industry took it hard when the accident occurred. He, and his team, was one of the movers and shakers of the industry. One thing is for certain. The industry was willing and able to help a fallen brother. And that is what this airshow is about.
This airshow is unlike any other one in the sense that the time alone is much longer than the typical airshow. Most airshows don't start until noon, maybe afterward, and end at around 4 PM. This one will start at 10 AM and end at 5 PM. A full SEVEN HOURS of airshow performances. And while on performances, 35 performers are currently slated to fly the show. All the big names of the industry will be there.
If anything, this airshow, in the aspect of civilian performances, may surpass Oshkosh (but of course, I wouldn't know, because I have yet to go to my first AirVenture). This has never been done before. Thirty-five civilian performers, a full seven hours of air time, and the primary purpose is charity. It's not about military recruitment, or patriotism, but about helping out a fallen aviator and his family. This may be the airshow in its purest sense of the word.
I'll try to head out to it.
Here is the video from Aero-TV, and the airshow's website.
Blue Skies and Tailwinds, Alan. And a speedy recovery!
15 March 2009
The Space Shuttle
Say what you want about NASA's noble steed. Whatever anyone says about it, one thing is certain: it has the undeniable power to amaze.
I learned that today, when I saw the Shuttle fly. I saw her, Discovery, fly for the first time in my life, with my own two eyes. Although there was 120 nautical miles between me and Titusville, I was able to see it clearly. What a beautiful sight! The colors were simply amazing. The dusk sky was a perfect canvas to see the Shuttle fly. The weather was perfect.
Our vantage point was my place of employment: Palm Beach International Airport. I drove to the parking structure, up to the seventh floor, and saw a group of people who also drove in, as well as some airline, airport, and TSA employees, enjoying the launch. I had my XM Radio receiver tuned to CNN audio, and heard the countdown. Amazing sight.
And that's from 120 nautical miles away from the Shuttle Landing Facility (TTS, previously X68)!
I still have to see it up close and personal, hearing the "blap-blap-blap" thunder of the solid rocket boosters. I want to feel the hairs on my back stand on end, in sheer, shivering recognition of the Undeniable Power of Aviation. The Wonders of Aviation bore witness today to a select few who had the privilege of seeing it at the Cape, an those within visual range who so much as even had the concern to bother and look.
The Wonders of Aviation need to be recognized. And today, she bore witness. I, along with my two sisters, saw the Wonder of Flight. Seeing the dreams of many people generations ago, who could only see the result, and fought their way to make that desired result an absolute reality. My hat is off to all of them: to those with wings spreading through learning, those that are aloft plying their trade with pride, and those with folded wings who fly no more through death. Their contributions are priceless, and should be remembered.
Sail high, Discovery! And a safe return home!
I learned that today, when I saw the Shuttle fly. I saw her, Discovery, fly for the first time in my life, with my own two eyes. Although there was 120 nautical miles between me and Titusville, I was able to see it clearly. What a beautiful sight! The colors were simply amazing. The dusk sky was a perfect canvas to see the Shuttle fly. The weather was perfect.
Our vantage point was my place of employment: Palm Beach International Airport. I drove to the parking structure, up to the seventh floor, and saw a group of people who also drove in, as well as some airline, airport, and TSA employees, enjoying the launch. I had my XM Radio receiver tuned to CNN audio, and heard the countdown. Amazing sight.
And that's from 120 nautical miles away from the Shuttle Landing Facility (TTS, previously X68)!
I still have to see it up close and personal, hearing the "blap-blap-blap" thunder of the solid rocket boosters. I want to feel the hairs on my back stand on end, in sheer, shivering recognition of the Undeniable Power of Aviation. The Wonders of Aviation bore witness today to a select few who had the privilege of seeing it at the Cape, an those within visual range who so much as even had the concern to bother and look.
The Wonders of Aviation need to be recognized. And today, she bore witness. I, along with my two sisters, saw the Wonder of Flight. Seeing the dreams of many people generations ago, who could only see the result, and fought their way to make that desired result an absolute reality. My hat is off to all of them: to those with wings spreading through learning, those that are aloft plying their trade with pride, and those with folded wings who fly no more through death. Their contributions are priceless, and should be remembered.
Sail high, Discovery! And a safe return home!
26 February 2009
"Large Aircraft Security Program", TSA's latest folly...
Before I begin, let me give you the link to leave your public comment on this travesty that the TSA wants to start.
AOPA, NBAA, and EAA are all letting the TSA know, as well as inciting their members to leave their public comments regarding this load of bull.
Do what you can NOW!
AOPA, NBAA, and EAA are all letting the TSA know, as well as inciting their members to leave their public comments regarding this load of bull.
Do what you can NOW!
21 February 2009
A small town in New Mexico, though frozen, sits vibrant...
In November of 2007, I helped my dad drive to Los Angeles. At the time, we were under the impression that we were going to return to the Promised Land. But the Exodus would not come to be.
At the time, I was big on classic rock. I tuned the radio to a few classic rock stations across the trip from Florida to Los Angeles (except when we were in Louisiana...zydeco prevailed there. We enjoyed it).
Before I continue, let me remind you that I firmly believe that aviation is the most important part of the history of man. Its pioneers, some still living today, blazed trails for us to follow, and their remnants still exist today.
Back to the story, after stopping in Las Cruces, New Mexico from a 36-hour continuous jaunt from the house in Florida, we found a local Chinese place not too far from New Mexico State University Las Cruces. The food was great. And, since I was single (and still am, though I am wishing it would change), I was, naturally, looking at the local girls. I was pleasantly surprised. But later on that. Even so, I am
The following morning, after sleeping so deeply I didn't even move from my original position in bed, I caught the sunrise over the mountains east of the city. I did not want to go anywhere else.
We got back in the truck, and we continued to Lordsburg, New Mexico. A very small town...a hamlet, I guess. Not even 3000 people lived in the town limits. The houses were small, and the environment was very warm (that morning was freezing cold, and windy...but not a cloud in the sky). We stopped in, starving, and stopped at a restaurant called "Kranberry's Family Restaurant" (their breakfast menu is awesome, and if you do drive on the 10 freeway, east or west through New Mexico, stop there). It seemed like every local girl in the town worked at the restaurant. All were very beautiful. But I kept those thoughts (clean, mind you) to myself. My dad stepped away, and I sat alone at our booth. The gentleman who was sitting in the booth behind my dad spotted my flight jacket, with my leather nametag with gold wings emblazoned with my name on it. He asked if I was a pilot. I replied that I was a student pilot, training to fly for the airlines. He asked warmly what I was doing in his little town, and if I flew in. I said that we stopped in for breakfast, and were to continue driving to Los Angeles the same day, returning home. He wished me the best of luck.
His inquiry stayed in my mind ever since. I researched Lordsburg, and found that it is the county seat for Hidalgo County. The airport there (across the street from Kranberry's off the 10 freeway) is the first one in the state. And, Charles Lindbergh landed there in his Ryan NYP when ferrying it to New York. Yes, every little airport, even in the most ungainly of locations or conditions, has their claim to fame. Santa Monica has the heritage of Douglas Aircraft, and the first round-the-world flight taking place there. Lantana's Palm Beach County Park Airport came into fruition during World War II, then flourished and grew under the vision of one man, Owen Gassaway, Jr (the airport is now named after him).
Aviation is truly something special. And it is special because of the people who make it up. A microcosm of people who do everything from fly, to maintain, to direct, to entertain, and to simply enjoy, all in aviation are special individuals who deserve our thanks and respect.
At the time, I was big on classic rock. I tuned the radio to a few classic rock stations across the trip from Florida to Los Angeles (except when we were in Louisiana...zydeco prevailed there. We enjoyed it).
Before I continue, let me remind you that I firmly believe that aviation is the most important part of the history of man. Its pioneers, some still living today, blazed trails for us to follow, and their remnants still exist today.
Back to the story, after stopping in Las Cruces, New Mexico from a 36-hour continuous jaunt from the house in Florida, we found a local Chinese place not too far from New Mexico State University Las Cruces. The food was great. And, since I was single (and still am, though I am wishing it would change), I was, naturally, looking at the local girls. I was pleasantly surprised. But later on that. Even so, I am
The following morning, after sleeping so deeply I didn't even move from my original position in bed, I caught the sunrise over the mountains east of the city. I did not want to go anywhere else.
We got back in the truck, and we continued to Lordsburg, New Mexico. A very small town...a hamlet, I guess. Not even 3000 people lived in the town limits. The houses were small, and the environment was very warm (that morning was freezing cold, and windy...but not a cloud in the sky). We stopped in, starving, and stopped at a restaurant called "Kranberry's Family Restaurant" (their breakfast menu is awesome, and if you do drive on the 10 freeway, east or west through New Mexico, stop there). It seemed like every local girl in the town worked at the restaurant. All were very beautiful. But I kept those thoughts (clean, mind you) to myself. My dad stepped away, and I sat alone at our booth. The gentleman who was sitting in the booth behind my dad spotted my flight jacket, with my leather nametag with gold wings emblazoned with my name on it. He asked if I was a pilot. I replied that I was a student pilot, training to fly for the airlines. He asked warmly what I was doing in his little town, and if I flew in. I said that we stopped in for breakfast, and were to continue driving to Los Angeles the same day, returning home. He wished me the best of luck.
His inquiry stayed in my mind ever since. I researched Lordsburg, and found that it is the county seat for Hidalgo County. The airport there (across the street from Kranberry's off the 10 freeway) is the first one in the state. And, Charles Lindbergh landed there in his Ryan NYP when ferrying it to New York. Yes, every little airport, even in the most ungainly of locations or conditions, has their claim to fame. Santa Monica has the heritage of Douglas Aircraft, and the first round-the-world flight taking place there. Lantana's Palm Beach County Park Airport came into fruition during World War II, then flourished and grew under the vision of one man, Owen Gassaway, Jr (the airport is now named after him).
Aviation is truly something special. And it is special because of the people who make it up. A microcosm of people who do everything from fly, to maintain, to direct, to entertain, and to simply enjoy, all in aviation are special individuals who deserve our thanks and respect.
16 February 2009
Algo en que pensar...Love, Desire, and Caring
Hay alguien que sé quién me hace pensár mucho. Esta muchacha tiene, más o menos, un año más que mí. Sus ojos oscuros, su pelo café que fluye en el viento, piel suave, hacen que me vuélvo loco siempre que la vea. Mis latidos del corazón aceleran, aún más rápidamente. Comienzo a sudar. Y las palabras se me ván. La he conocido por casi cinco años, y debido a miedo, simplemente no puedo decirle cómo me siento. Cómo deseo su amor más que el vuelo sí mismo. Sí, dejare mi carrera de piloto profesional para estar con ella.
Quiero enseñarle el mundo. Quiero compartir el mundo con ella con mis alas de oro. Quiero tomarla en el cielo, y ver mi reflejo, y el mundo entero detrás de mí, en sus ojos. Quiero ver lo que ella ve. Quiero ser su mundo.
Sí, ella es alguien muy especial. Con todo temo del rechazamiento. Creo que es que el mismo miedo que me guarda de hacer el salto con el vuelo me está guardando de decirle lo que siento. Una amiga cercana me dijo que necesito saltar al vuelo, y dejar de mi estancamiento. Si amo el volar tanto, necesito olvidar todo, y simplemente volar.
Debo olvidar el pasado. Necesito olvidar el pasado. Debo olvidar el hecho que habría podido avanzar con mi carrera del vuelo si nunca salimos de California. Me estaría preparando para mi licencia del ATP ahora. Debo ser. Cumplaré los 23 años en unos meses. Aunque no tengo todo lo que necesito, necesito empezar. Necesito volar. He rectificado mis finanzas. No hay razón para parar. Necesito empezar una vez por todas. Comenzar otra vez. Comenzar de nuevo.
Y comenzaré. Necesito a una amiga para llevar al cielo. Y quisiera que ella fuera mi copilota. La veo, y empiezan mis deseos de protegerla, amarla, acariciarla, respetarla, hacer que yo sere la unica persona quien ella puede depender.
That is all I want.
And I desire to spend the rest of eternity with her.
I had felt something similar before. But it didn't feel tangible. I was younger, and stupid. Now, I'm not as young, and not so stupid. One would think that the feeling wouldn't be as strong now that I'm older, and hormones stabilized. But it feels stronger. Stronger now.
I'll tell her something soon.
I have known her for some time now. But I have not seen her until just a couple of days ago. I had these feelings for a while now, but they didn't fire up to a blazing desire until recently. Prior to that point, the last time I saw her was a good 4 months (and we simply meet, not that often, but when we do, we just do).
Quiero enseñarle el mundo. Quiero compartir el mundo con ella con mis alas de oro. Quiero tomarla en el cielo, y ver mi reflejo, y el mundo entero detrás de mí, en sus ojos. Quiero ver lo que ella ve. Quiero ser su mundo.
Sí, ella es alguien muy especial. Con todo temo del rechazamiento. Creo que es que el mismo miedo que me guarda de hacer el salto con el vuelo me está guardando de decirle lo que siento. Una amiga cercana me dijo que necesito saltar al vuelo, y dejar de mi estancamiento. Si amo el volar tanto, necesito olvidar todo, y simplemente volar.
Debo olvidar el pasado. Necesito olvidar el pasado. Debo olvidar el hecho que habría podido avanzar con mi carrera del vuelo si nunca salimos de California. Me estaría preparando para mi licencia del ATP ahora. Debo ser. Cumplaré los 23 años en unos meses. Aunque no tengo todo lo que necesito, necesito empezar. Necesito volar. He rectificado mis finanzas. No hay razón para parar. Necesito empezar una vez por todas. Comenzar otra vez. Comenzar de nuevo.
Y comenzaré. Necesito a una amiga para llevar al cielo. Y quisiera que ella fuera mi copilota. La veo, y empiezan mis deseos de protegerla, amarla, acariciarla, respetarla, hacer que yo sere la unica persona quien ella puede depender.
That is all I want.
And I desire to spend the rest of eternity with her.
I had felt something similar before. But it didn't feel tangible. I was younger, and stupid. Now, I'm not as young, and not so stupid. One would think that the feeling wouldn't be as strong now that I'm older, and hormones stabilized. But it feels stronger. Stronger now.
I'll tell her something soon.
I have known her for some time now. But I have not seen her until just a couple of days ago. I had these feelings for a while now, but they didn't fire up to a blazing desire until recently. Prior to that point, the last time I saw her was a good 4 months (and we simply meet, not that often, but when we do, we just do).
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