Ah!! Relief at last. Wasn’t that a sigh from a commercial long ago? It’s true that the weather has been better, and all the signs are there. Recently, I was out at the hangar puttering about, and it’s always exciting watching aircraft take off and land… not to mention the wonderful sound of propellers turning. I had attended another club’s meeting just to see how they do things and found some differences, but it was the similarities that got my attention. I was pondering whether or not we pilots are a dying breed, as some of the signs were readily apparent: yes, the salt ‘n pepper hair, some familiar faces, and static numbers in attendance. Although these indicators might seem a little negative, I also think that they needn’t be. I look to recent situations that I’ve encountered, and I think, they are positive. For example, we have had some new people recently attend our club meetings with the intent of becoming members. I have also met and greeted newcomers at our airfield who have found us through our website.

I must say that I’m encouraged and excited, especially when I see the look on these people’s faces; they are just like kids again with ear-to-ear grins. I’d like to remind all of us and thank all of you who are good ambassadors as to how important a job you have and how well you are doing it when it comes to recreational aviation. At the next meeting, we will have available “club business” cards for our members to take and carry with them. It is my hope that we will use these not only as a calling card, but also as a way to say hello and show who we are.

Also, at the next meeting, we will be giving an update on Project Ivan, and I will also be presenting another educational topic. I look forward to seeing you all, and in the meantime, stay safe, have fun, and take along a friend.