Ed and Elise HoIt had graciously extended an invitation to their home, to join them for those famous cinnamon rolls, some tire kicking, sky gawking, another memory making day. Added to that were the 3 one-lung engines belching to their own rhythm and adding to the ambiance of the day.

The Gerties were well represented and a quick thinking Don Bader had arrived early and (thank you Don and Anita!) made sure that there was a roped off area where we could all gather. (There were 24 Model A’s present, all but 1 or 2 were Gertie members.)

For the most part the weather held and we only had to break out the umbrellas for a short time before the sun peaked though and we could put them away shedding our outer layer and enjoy the rays of warmth.

A co-worker of Don’s arrived from his home in Covington in his gyrocopter, which drew quite a crowd. Ed HoIt was heard to say that he was pretty much fearless in most areas but that particular mode of transportation scared him to death. That wasn’t the case with Don who, after assuring Anita that his life insurance was current, hopped in, buckled up and took off…..(with those of us on the ground holding our breath….).

Mark & Jenette (McLaughlin) Robert’s came by to visit with Mark’s friend Frank whose bright yellow 1941 Stearman bi-plane was quite the attention getter. Much to her father’s envy, daughter Jenette hopped into the front cockpit, donned the helmet, buckled up and away she went on her tree topping adventure. She said it was truly an amazing experience!! ( unlike her mother who likes her feet planted firmly on the ground!). Leah Goodwin also got a ride after patiently waiting a long time. The wait was definitely worth it.

The pilots and planes provided us with an array of skilled maneuvers in fly bys, barrel rolls, various formations as well as touchdowns and take offs.

We never did get to see Mt. Rainier but will have another chance maybe next year!

Thank you to Ed and Elise, and Glen and Gloria Cawley, for including us in such a wonderful experience.

Christy McLaughlin