District VII
Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Wisconsin
Hello District VII members. As I write this, the flying season is ending and at the time you are reading this, many of you might have even had your first snow. I hope you had a wonderful flying season and have shared the passion.
When I close off my column, I always ask you to share the passion. I want to present some stories of those who have done just that.
First, let me share what Clyde Denzer, a member of the Fond du Lac Aeromodelers, sent:
“It is not very often that we get to promote youth in our hobby. The Fond du Lac Aeromodelers happens to have two that we would like to share. “Noah is a young member of our club and an exceptional person. His first interaction with the club was impressive, and he continues to impress the membership. He is an excellent pilot and carries himself like an adult. During our recent warbird event, he was dropped off by his mother and worked as a volunteer for the entire day. “Our second exceptional happening is a grandfather’s dream. Grandpa Doug Yaroch and his three grandsons are shown in the photo flying at the same time.”
It is great to see the youth participating and thank you for sharing, Clyde.
Many of you know that if it goes in the air, I will fly it! I enjoy flying everything from turbines to large-scale aircraft, and even helicopters. Do you know what I enjoy flying the most? A Radian glider! Do you know why? Because I enjoy flying and buddy-boxing with youth.
Last month, I showed a picture of a dear friend’s family having the opportunity to try their hands at the sticks. One of the grandkids wanted another go at it, and as soon as I could get the batteries charged, we were up in the air again! Just listening to the ooohs and ahhs and uh-ohs while Hailee was flying was fun and brought laughs to us all.
The final “sharing the passion” that I want to offer this month is not with a youth, but rather with an adult! Let me provide some background so that you, the reader, will understand how special this is.
Some time ago, a close friend, George Dzahristos, had a severe stroke, leaving the possibility of life hanging by a thread. Through the prayers of many and his inner strength, he fought to survive.
Fast-forward to recently, the Pontiac Miniature Aircraft Club was blessed with a visit by George. George had been the president of the club at the time of his stroke. It was so good to see him and an emotional time for all. George promised to come to the club’s fall picnic and, sure enough, he did!
In the spirit of the hobby, the members shared the passion of flying with George. He had not flown since having the stroke, but members knew that he wanted to fly, so they got him in the air! He flew brilliantly, bringing joy and tears of happiness to all, George included! My friend, it is so glad to see you back.
I close for the month with this. The celebration of Thanksgiving will soon be here. We all have much to be thankful for—our friends and our family. Take a moment to reflect and give thanks for the many blessings we have.
