For me, the 2026 GIRLS IN AVIATION DAY at Millard was genuinely inspiring. Lots of curious, happy kids from under 6 to over 16 were there and showed real interest. Jeff let them sit in his SGS 1-26 and make gliding sounds => “sssssssss”). They also got to do some tow rope releases. Several Dads also seemed interested. We promised a a dozen or so free rides if they come out in 2028 when we finally have a tow plane.
An anonymous club member (it was Jeff) also showed them his airspeed indicator, asked them what they thought it meant when the needle got into the read zone. I didn’t hear any correct answers, but I did hear Jeff tell them that was way too fast and could tear the wings off.
I can imagine dinner tonight in that household:
“Hey Mom, that man with a glider said when they go too fast the wings tear off.”
One girl, not more than five, asked me if we had any jets. I said that some gliders have jet motors on them.
“I know that,” she said. “I mean do you have any real jets”
“Sadly, we do not,” I said.
“Can you fly a jet?”
“No, but maybe some day you can.” I said
“My Dad flies a jet.” she said.
Thanks to Jeff for sharing his very special aircraft with so many special kids. And thanks to Dave Leslie and Trevor Finn for coming out so early on a Saturday best spent in bed waiting for the sun to return.
Ceilings were low so the EAA Chapter 80 Young Eagles were not able to fly. Ryan Kelly had planned to help, but was able instead to get some training toward his IFR rating in real instrument conditions. Or at least I hope he was.
Today reminded me how much I miss our regular operations and the camaraderie that they inspire.
Bud Shaw