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The 2-33 refurbishing project is nearing completion. Lots of work has been done, principally by John Mildon. The 2- 33 fuselage was painted in June. John reinstalled numerous components including the vertical stabilizer, rudder, main wheel and new skid bar support at Morgan during Saturday trips and was assisted by David Lane on one occasion. The ship was then taken back to Salt Lake to John's workshop on July 17. Several more marathon sessions resulted in about 98% of the reassembly being completed. The 2-33 was then trailered back to Morgan on Saturday, July 31, with the help of John, Matt Zimmer and Karl Wernick. The final components were to be installed August 3, and then a weight and balance to be completed by Wayne Wilkerson. At the time of this writing, the plan is the 2-33 should be ready for return to service on August 6, and then air towed to Heber. A summary report on improvements and costs will be issued later this year. I must say, though, that the 2-33 has undergone a dramatic improvement. I think that most everyone is aware that the 1-34 has been flying for awhile. I have had the pleasure of a couple of flights, and would like to thank Doug Spencer for the terrific interior refit. Very quiet Doug! And the new electric vario has been a definite plus. Thanks go to Walt Konecny for building a new instrument panel and installing the new instruments. Something that was supposed to go into last months’ column, which never materialized were a couple of comments regarding flying skills. After the sad news about JFK Jr., these comments are more relevant than ever. First, FAA currency and flight proficiency are not one and the same. A flight here and there, especially after a long winter off is not any way to maintain proficiency. From my own personal experience, I know it takes several flights (read as several more than three) to begin thinking “in front of the airplane”. In addition, soaring etiquette regarding thermalling with others needs to be strictly adhered to. Specifically, enter an occupied thermal in the same direction as sailplanes already present in the thermal are flying. Track other sailplanes in the thermal, and avoid flying in their blind spots for extended periods of time. We have set a Fall BBQ date for Saturday, September 18, 1999. As usual, the club will provide the hamburgers, hot dogs and drinks. You are requested to bring a side dish of your choosing. More details will be provided in next month’s newsletter. If you have any questions, please contact Matt Zimmer. I would like to tip my hat to Jim Krog who, on his day as duty officer, waxed the Grob completely on his own initiative. Outstanding effort Mr. Krog! One minor caveat, the club ships are often sitting on the apron on weekends, the Grob included. Members should be up flying more! (See paragraph 3.) One last item to mention is a reminder that once again, a questionnaire will be sent out in October regarding 1999 soaring activities. Questions on last years’ form included number of flights and number of hours for the year. New items for this year will possibly include farthest away outlanding, best save, and just about anything someone wants to add to the form. Results will be tabulated for the annual membership meeting. Prizes (caveat emptor) will be given for select categories, which will be totally deter- mined at the discretion of the club president. See you all up at Heber! - Parke Byron This year board members are: Parke Byron, President 582-7802 Duty Officer Schedule
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