Mystery Solved!
The Mystery Fly-in came off without a hitch as about 26 DAFers in 9 planes made the trip to Perris for lunch. After answering the critical questions on the quiz correctly in order to find out the destination, they dodged parachute jumpers and jump planes to get to the Bomb Shelter Cafe for an excellent lunch. There was one go-around in deference to a jump plane asserting local right-of-way, but otherwise we were welcomed in, and had a great view the the jumpers landing right across the runway. The weather cooperated by breaking up just in time for our departure. All in all, another fine trip.
Thanks to the Mystery Committee for creating the quiz and setting up the trip. Volunteers are always welcome to help organize fly-ins, and ideas for future fly-ins are always welcome. Don't hesitate to contact any member of the board.
2015 Fly-in Preview
The DAF Board has started planning the 2015 fly-ins, and it's going to be another great year. Here's a preview to start your planning. Dates and more information will follow as they are finalized.
January 10th: Dinner and a Movie! If you haven't seen the movie about Louie Zamperini's life, "Unbroken", join us for a movie and dinner. Restaurant and theater locations to follow.
February 21: Lunch fly-in to the historic Mission Inn in Riverside. Link to the Inn's website here.
March 21: Santa Ynez lunch trip with catered BBQ.
May 16: Big Bear for a lunch fly-in. Details to come.
June 5-7: Taos, New Mexico. A picturesque town of historic buildings, museums, art galleries, and the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge. A weekend trip, and probably worth an extra day or two as well! Sign up now.
July 11: The annual Flaming Brisket Fly-in to Agua Dulce. Bring your appetite and a side. Mitch will be bringing plenty of slow smoked beef brisket.
August 15: The DAF Annual Hangar Party, so no fly-in. Plenty of fun though, so don't miss it.
October 16-18: Columbia, CA for a weekend fly-in. Once again, camping on the field, with a hotel for those who'd rather have modern amenities.
November 7: The Mystery Fly-in returns. Still trying to figure it out!
December: No fly-in, the Christmas Party will be the place to be.
Our Piece of the Sky
Sedona Sunshine
The Sedona fly-in the weekend of 10-12 October was a big success. About 32 people attended, with 9 airplanes including a chartered jet! Several people drove to take in the Southwest sights along the way. Activities included Jeep Rides, vortex chasing and experiencing, visiting Jerome and Prescott, seeing nearby ancient Native American sites, some hiking, and just relaxing and enjoying the magnificent canyon views. Happy hours were popular events. Saturday dinner was at the Mesa Grill at the airport and near the hotel. The flying weather was great both ways.
Thanks go to Dave Weir for arranging another fantastic fly-in.
Hope-ful Devil
The dinner meeting's presentation was by Mike McCaskill, who created "The Hope-ful Devil." Mike talked about his discovery of twelve minutes of raw footage of his father and crew's rescue after ditching their B-29. He then tracked down additional footage from all kinds of sources to create the 45 minute documentary he showed the DAFers. Many present commended it as the best DAF program in years. Contratulations to Mike on his tremendous work, and thanks to Larry Chapman for setting up the program.
SLO Flight
September's Fly-in was a lunch run to San Luis Obispo. 30 DAFers made the trip in ten planes and one car.
We were welcomed by the manager, Doug, at "The Spirit of Lt. Louis" restaurant, right on the field. The group took over the patio for great food and lively conversation. Once finished, diners took off in all directions for further fun. Thanks to all who attended. Thanks as well to Lori Delane, who arranged the trip.