My Left Nut

Portland Half-Con

2009-05-02T17:38:00.003-07:00

Well...the Portland Half-Con is now forever enshrined in history. Klaatu was first to arrive at 12:05. As he hadn't seen the updates recently, he had no idea what name the reservation was under and [hilarity ensues] finally figured it all out and realized nobody was there yet.

Also, found out that 21Quest was going to be a no-show. He said his head blew up on the way in. Obviously, he was preparing a new and great idea that turned out to be too much for his brain(?)

Klaatu left for 20 minutes to kick up his carboxyhemoglobin levels. When he returned, Gisho was waiting.

Klaatu and Gisho waited together...and waited...and waited. Finally, 2 familiar faces showed at the door and the Canadian contingent had arrived. We sat around playing Edward Forty Hands until we were all falling down drunk. Toward the end of the Half-Con, 2Fries tried to pay with that funny money that they have up north and the waitress refused to accept it. The ensuing brawl brought sirens racing into the city. 2Fries noticed that the sirens south of the border sound a bit different than the Canadian sirens. While this was all going on, the sky opened up and hail and rain descended upon the restaurant.

The waitress came by about 14:00 hrs and asked if there was someone named "Shinook". We all shrugged and said, "Sorry, no." Later, she came by and spelled the name, "C-A-N-U-C-K" and said Chris had called from London. Day-uhm! Sorry Po...

Klaatu called 21Quest on the way home and Quest said he was only an hour away at mile marker 148. (I sure wish I had a car that could go 148 M.P.H.!) Quest was disappointed that the Canadians had to beat a hasty retreat and he wouldn't be able to meet them, but 2Fries has that ticket, eh?

Click on the pictures to view them full-size...

Gisho

From L to R: 2fries, Canuck, Gisho

L to R: Klaatu, Canuck, Gisho

L to R: 2fries, Canuck, Gisho

(Picture was taken after we escaped police custody)

Briton Pleads Not Guilty After Drunken Bomb Threat

2008-09-11T14:35:00.001-07:00

DUBAI (AFP) — A Briton who sparked a bomb alert on an Emirates flight from Manchester to Dubai in July while he was drunk told a court in the Gulf emirate that he was joking, newspapers reported on Thursday.

"It was a joke," Mark Winter, 37, told the court on Wednesday, as he pleaded not guilty to attacking a civilian airliner, the papers said.

Winter, who triggered panic by claiming he had a bomb that would explode in seven minutes, admitted he had been drinking, the papers said.

Emirates airline said on July 9 that a drunken Briton sparked the bomb alert as its flight from England landed in Dubai.

An official for the Dubai carrier said the passenger had an argument with one of the crew and then claimed a bomb was on the aircraft, which was later searched and no explosives found.

A prosecution spokesman said last month that Winter would be tried on charges of assaulting the aircraft and passengers as well as drunkenness.

"I was drunk. I was unaware of what I was doing ... I did not assault the flight attendant. I did not assault the passengers but I was trying to defend myself," the English-language daily Khaleej Times quoted Winter as telling the court.

The court will issue its verdict on September 17, the newspaper added.

Another Drunk Passenger Incident - August 14, 2008

2008-08-15T15:17:00.003-07:00

From SkyNews:

A flight between Ireland and Crete have been diverted and five people removed by police after a fight broke out on board.

One eyewitness who was on the plane when it was forced to make an unscheduled landing in Venice last night said a man began smashing overhead compartments.

One of the 167 passengers on the Futura Gael flight 2815 from Dublin to Heraklion, Aoife O'Reilly, from Dublin, said those responsible had been drinking.

"We were up in the air and two guys - who were surprisingly a lot older than us - started fights," she said.

"Then we had to be redirected to Venice for a couple of hours. The police came on and had to get them off.

"They had a couple of drinks on them, they were extremely aggressive. One of the guys half-way through the flight stood up and started smashing the overhead compartments."

Italian border police based at Marco Polo airport in Venice said the men were all Irish and aged between 25 and 30.

They were not arrested but put on a plane back to Ireland, the authorities said.

Dublin-based Futura Gael, which runs charter flights to holiday destinations, apologised to passengers who were delayed by several hours.
"The incident occurred in Italian airspace at approximately 10pm Irish time, where a number of passengers were involved in an incident on board," said a spokesman.

"The captain then made the decision, for the safety of all on board, to divert to Venice, where the aircraft was met by members of the Italian police.
"Five people were removed from the aircraft by Italian police and the remaining passengers continued their flight approximately two hours later and have arrived safely in Heraklion."

The airline said it had launched its own internal investigation.

This Country Is Run By Idiots

2008-08-02T00:39:00.002-07:00

Here is the response to my request to ban all alcohol from U.S. flights:

Dear Mr. Hxxxxxx:

Thank you for contacting me regarding voter registration for our nation’s veterans. I appreciate hearing from you on this important issue, and I share your concerns.

Our nation’s veterans have selflessly answered the call to serve, and many have paid a heavy price for their service and now require care at VA facilities. Their ability to register to vote should never be hampered by their need for medical treatment.

With this in mind, I have cosponsored the Veteran Voting Support Act. This legislation allows states to require the VA to make voter registration services available at their facilities and to assist veterans in receiving and using absentee ballots. The legislation would also allow non-partisan groups and election officials to visit VA campuses and conduct voter registration drives.

Additionally, I have written to the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, James Peake, and asked him to reconsider the ban on voter registration drives at VA facilities. VA medical centers should serve as a place of civic engagement for some of our most patriotic Americans, not a place where they feel displaced or forgotten. America's democracy rests on the ability of all voters – veterans, soldiers, and civilians alike – to make their voice heard on Election Day.

As you may know, on April 25, the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) issued policy Directive 2008-023, which required all Veterans Affairs facilities to develop a comprehensive plan to assist veterans with voter registration. Less than two weeks later, the VHA replaced this policy with a new directive. While still aimed at assisting veterans with voting and registration, this new policy makes one major change from the original – a prohibition on third-party voter registration drives at VA facilities.

I agree that a blanket prohibition on all registration drives prevents a potentially valuable resource from reaching these veterans. The very least our country can do is provide them with every convenience and resource available to cast their ballots on Election Day. Please rest assured that as I continue to work on behalf of our veterans, I will keep your views in mind.

Again, thank you for keeping me apprised of the issues that are important to you. If I may be of further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Sincerely,

Ron Wyden
United States Senator

Brick Wall?

2008-07-30T08:03:00.002-07:00

Yesterday, I contacted the ALPA (Air Line Pilots Association) and was promised a call back from Brendan Kenny in their Government Affairs division. My idea must have gone over like flatus in a phone booth. Nothing. No call. No e-mail. Nada.

I would have hoped for backing from the ALPA since it is their pilots who must deal with the drunk passenger and make the decision to divert, if needed. As a private pilot, I want to fly the airplane and not have to deal with emergencies inside the plane. Even a sick passenger can really be distracting. With the lives of hundreds of passengers on board, the stress of a drunk and potentially dangerous passenger would be too much to handle. My hats off to the professional pilots.

I'm still holding out hope for a call or an e-mail today.

An Uphill Battle - To Be Sure

2008-07-29T10:36:00.004-07:00

I spoke with "Grant" at Senator Gordon Smith's Washington, D.C. office,

Washington, DC Office
404 Russell Building
Washington, DC 20510
Phone: 202.224.3753
Fax: 202.228.3997

and I got the usual Washington bull@#%!.
"Yes, I see where it would be a safety issue"
"yes, I imagine that the certification results for aircraft evacuation would probably be different with impaired passengers"
"BUT..."

Here's what it boils down to:
1) There has to be large grassroots support
2) There has to be local government support (State level - National Governor's Association)
3) There needs to be support from organizations (ALPA, AOPA, EAA, OPA...)

So, here is where we stand. The government cares about our flying safety only if we can drum up the support from some big guns. Anyone willing to go to the mat on this? Maybe you have a contact or an inroad to a politician. Maybe you can get friends or relatives to write to Senator Smith, as he sits on the United States Senate Committee on Commerce, Science & Transportation.

I'll fight alone if need be, but if we all stand up and take on this challenge, we can make a difference.

E-Mail Response From Kate At flyersrights.com

2008-07-29T09:20:00.003-07:00

David,

Here is the problem with promoting that. New Mexico already passed a law that says no alcohol when in or over their state. What this did to our passengers bill of rights was devastating and here's why.

Although I think you are probably right, especially because air rage increases where alcohol is involved, the airlines argument about State Laws to regulate passengers Safety and Health is that they don't want a "Patchwork Quilt" of State legislation.

There is no way we will get the federal Government to pass this type of law. Too many drinkers in Congress would disagree. So we have the States who can legislate this, however the airlines figured out a way to make it a problem for us with our first piece of legislation.

I wish I could be more effective, but we need to get our first piece of legislation passed so it can be amended later with laws like yours suggest would be good.

Have you called your Congressman and Senators? Fax them letters? That's the best first step.

Kate

Opinion in rebuttal: When smoking was banned, there were naysayers and it began as a patchwork. From 1986 and the no-smoke.org website:

1987

February - The U.S. Department of Transportation rejects the recommendation of the NAS to make domestic commercial flights smokefree. Secretary Elizabeth Dole states that no new regulations are necessary because the market will accommodate demand.

July - By a vote of 198 to 193, the U.S. House of Representatives passes the Durbin Amendment to the Federal Aviation Act of 1958, making domestic flights of two hours or less smokefree. ANR's swift national grassroots campaign plays a critical role in securing the passage.

September 27th - California Governor George Deukmejian signs S.B. 1067 into law, making all in-state flights, trains, buses and other forms of public transportation 100% smokefree. State Senator Nicolas Petris (D-Oakland) authored the measure after reading about the adverse health effects of passive smoking exposure in the 1986 U.S. Surgeon General's Report.

Southwest Airlines buys out Muse Air and revokes 100% smokefree policy. Smoking is permitted on Southwest Airline flights, exposing airline employees and passengers to secondhand smoke again.

I Need Your Help (Updated 16:39 Zulu time)

2008-07-29T07:05:00.005-07:00

In 1986, a grassroots effort to ban smoking on flights was initiated and the politicians listened. Barely 2 years later, smoking on flights was a thing of the past. This was done to protect the health and safety of the other passengers aboard the aircraft. Was it rough? Yes, I am a smoker and it was tough, but it didn't stop me...or the other millions of fliers from boarding aircraft and taking to the skies.

In the last week, there have been two incidents where a drunk passenger has attempted to open an aircraft door, at altitude. As flying passengers we cannot tolerate this! Now is the time for us to protect ourselves against a threat to our safety, the intoxicated passenger. First, some background:

For an aircraft design to be certified, it must be demonstrated that all passengers and crew can be evacuated in less than 90 seconds. Here is a video clip of the certification for the Airbus A380.

As you can see, it happens quickly, efficiently and safely. All of the passengers were sober, alert and ready to get out of that airplane. I would like to see the same certification done with passengers who have been drinking for, say...4 hours (a typical cross-country flight).

Now, ask yourself, "What if there were 1...or 2...or 10 people who had a drink (or 2...or 3...or...) before the emergency?" Would they be reacting quickly? Efficiently? Safely? What if you and your children were behind this individual? Or, maybe your Mom and Dad are flying out to meet their new grandchild? You or they may only have seconds to live. The intoxicated passenger stumbles, they get confused, they block your way. You and your children are now all dead...your Mother and Father are dead. Everyone behind that intoxicated passenger is dead.

Most aviation safety experts say that the difference between life or death is sometimes measured in mere seconds. Do you want those seconds wasted because someone wants to drink? Drinking is a LUXURY. There is no requirement for drinking on flights or in airports.

So, what can we, as citizens and passengers do? Well, I'm glad you asked. Get your pen and paper ready. Got them? OK, take down this information:

Aviation Operations, Safety, and Security Subcommittee
Majority: 202-224-9000
Minority: 202-224-5184

Call one of these numbers and demand that alcohol be banned from flights and from airports. A list of the members of the United States Senate Committee on Commerce, Science & Transportation can be found here. Call or write!

If smoking can be banned from flights by average citizens rallying against it, then why can't we rally against something that threatens our safety every time we fly? Make your voice heard and make a difference.

Update: I got a call from Rich Swayze (202-224-9000) and he says that we need to contact our local legislators and demand that they move to have alcohol banned from flights. The FAA wants it banned, but until they get requests from outside, they really can't do much. He still wants a grass roots effort and he wants to be a part of it.

He suggested a possibility that the Coalition for a Passenger Bill of Rights group may also be able to help to get this going. Rich is e-mailing me the information and I'll post it, here, as soon as it is received. We really can do this!

I just checked my e-mail, and here is what Rich sent:

David,

Below is the contact information for the Coalition for an Airline Passenger Bill of Rights I spoke to you about over the phone. Kate has been a very effective spokesperson for passengers, and may be able to help you.

The Committee takes safety very seriously and shares your concerns about passengers that consume too much alcohol.

Please feel free to contact us in the future as you try to garner more support for this issue.

Rich Swayze
Professional Staff Member
Senate Aviation Subcommittee
202.224.9000
________________________________

Kate Hanni
Director & Spokesman
Coalition for an Airline Passengers' Bill of Rights
(707) 337-0328
kate@flyersrights.com

Doug Reeves, OSH '08 In Pictures - Updated

2008-07-28T13:55:00.003-07:00

Doug Reeves has posted some great pictures. Be sure to hit [F11] and then hit play. Great shots, Doug.

Additional pictures here.

Virgin Galactic Unveils White Knight 2 - "Eve"

2008-07-28T13:53:00.001-07:00

Vans Aircraft Posts New RV-12 Prices

2008-07-28T13:43:00.002-07:00

Long-awaited...

The next kit component available for the RV-12 is the fuselage kit. At $4600 it is just slightly more than the RV-6 kit. There is no word as to ship times for the kit.

The RV-12 is shaping up to be an overall great priced aircraft. Unlike other kit manufacturers, Vans doesn't give you the "basic kit" and then nickel and dime you to death on "options". Once they get a steady supply of kits available, I predict that the RV-12 will outsell all other kits, by far.

2nd Annual Ex-VoiceStream Employees Reunion

2008-07-28T13:37:00.004-07:00

Sorry for the delayed posting, but I somewhat overdid the weekend and my "rabbit neighbors" kept me awake. (Details to follow)

2008-07-28T13:31:00.002-07:00

Photos from the 2008 Stayton Summerfest

2008-07-26T23:04:00.001-07:00

Early morning and the vendors are beginning to set up their booths along 3rd in Stayton.

2008-07-26T22:56:00.002-07:00

Stayton Volunteer Fireman's Breakfast

Bumblebee on Lavender on E Marion

Banner on 3rd

2008-07-26T22:49:00.002-07:00

More Classic Cars

2008-07-26T22:44:00.000-07:00

More Hotrods

2008-07-26T22:35:00.003-07:00

David Davis kickin' on his harmonica

Vendor booths along 3rd

Paper Bark Maple on E Marion

Classic Car

Drunk British Woman Tries To Open Door Of Plane

2008-07-26T09:28:00.003-07:00

This @#%! has got to stop. I have ranted about banning alcohol from flights and I won't stop until my safety is assured. With at least 2 of the 3 attempted door openings in the last week, the passenger was visibly drunk.

A plane flying from the Greek island of Kos to Manchester had to make an emergency landing after a 26 and 27 year-old female, obviously intoxicated, caused a commotion on the flight, tried to hit a flight attendant with a vodka bottle and then attempted to open the emergency exit while the plane was flying at over 30,000 feet. The passenger had to be restrained by security staff. Her explanation for trying to open the door was that she "not feeling well and wanted to open to door to get some fresh air."

When does this stop? When do we finally ban alcohol from flights? When do we get angry enough about people putting us in real peril and demand a change?

Oh..So what punishment did these 2 women get? Well, since they had no money to pay a fine, they were put on a later flight home. Oh, but they may have to pay for the cost of the flight diversion. Big whoop! Send them to jail for a long time for attempted murder of every passenger and crew on that plane.

Video of Quantas 747 Forced to Make an Emergency Landing in Manila

2008-07-25T23:26:00.007-07:00

One of the passengers aboard the Quantas 747 that had part of the fuselage blow out at altitude shot this video. She stated that throughout the ordeal that the passengers stayed fairly calm.

The 747-438 Longreach had been found to have "serious corrosion issues" back in March.

The damage and cause of the explosive decompression are being investigated. The investigative team needs to rule out ground damage or explosive as potential causes of the 5-6 foot hole on the right side of the aircraft.

Memories of the 70's

2008-07-25T00:00:00.003-07:00

I have many fond memories of the 60's and 70's. Many memories shook me to my core: Nixon and Kennedy debating in Union Square, San Francisco, comes to mind. Meeting the Black Panthers in Oakland was an eye-opener. Getting a chance to meet César Chávez was a monumental moment. But, what I remembered today happened 32 years ago this month.

It was the Democratic Convention and a tall, black woman strode to the podium and when she spoke, the air became electric. She spoke with such power and clarity, that I found myself hanging on her every word. If you've never had a chance to hear this address by Barbara Jordan, please take the time to listen. It is powerful and moving. The text of the speech is here and the audio archive is here. Since the audio was not up to today's standards, I suggest that you listen to the speech and follow along with the text.

Whether you are a conservative or liberal, I hope that this speech will move you, as it moved me many years ago.

International Talk Like A Pirate Day

2008-07-24T00:00:00.002-07:00

Well folks, you have less than 2 months to brush up on your pirate lingo. International Talk Like A Pirate Day is almost here. As a public service, I have included this short video to help you get started. And, be sure to mark your calendars for September 19th or I'll hunt you down like a scurvy dog and hoist yer booty up the mainmast! Arrrrr!

Breaking a Promise

2008-07-23T14:45:00.005-07:00

OK, I promised early on to never go into politics or conspiracy theories on this blog. But, you know what? This is my place and I can do as I please.

Today, I am dealing with both politics and conspiracy theory.

I was looking over a nifty little google map application and happened to look at New Orleans and what will happen to it if global warming really takes off. You will notice that on the map, that New Orleans is now at the bottom of the Gulf of Mexico.

This got me to thinking about the level of inactivity after Hurricane Katrina as far as disaster relief. Has our government "written off" New Orleans as beyond saving? I mean, if the government knows full well that New Orleans is a lost cause, then why spend the money to rebuild it? Wouldn't openly saying that it's a lost cause force them to admit that global warming is a reality?

Your thoughts?

For Those Poor Souls With A Pain Or Bump In Their Left Nut

2008-07-21T21:52:00.012-07:00

I enjoy watching the Feedjit Live Traffic Feed to see how people end up on my blog. The latest search came through Google and this poor soul was searching for "There is something behind my left Nut what is it?". He ended up here. I also see a lot of "Pain in my left nut" searches. These people must be sore-ly disappointed when they arrive here. As a public...pubic(?) service, I'm going to give a bit of an anatomy lesson tonight.

Ok guys, take your nut in hand and feel the back side of your nut. Do you feel something that feels like a bundle of worms? That is your epididymis and that is where your sperm mature and grow their tails. Now, if there is no pain or swelling, you're good. If it seems tender and swollen, it could be epididymitis. This is usually caused by an infection. Older men can get urinary reflux due to an enlarged prostate which can lead to the infection following the vas to the epididymis. You may also get an infection if you practice "alternative sex" and drive e coli into the urethra.

Another cause for swelling is a hydrocele. Usually these do not hurt. (I lived with one for over 40 years before having it repaired). Now, how to tell a hydrocele from a tumor. Okay boys, get out your flashlight and go into a dark closet. Take your testicle and place it over the flashlight and turn it on. (The FLASHLIGHT STUPID!) If you have a hydrocele, it will glow a lovely light. If it is a mass, it will not shine through. Easy!

What else can go wrong with your left nut? Well, you do regular self-exams...right? The best time is in the shower when the scrotum is warm and relaxed and is nice and soapy. Isolate each testicle within the scrotum and with the other hand, feel all surfaces. If your feel an abnormal lump, and it does not transilluminate, you should see a urologist at the first opportunity. If you have had a vasectomy, you could be getting cysts (from experience here guys). Your doctor may try antibiotics if an ultrasound shows it to be benign. I finally had to opt for surgery.

Now, surgery is a last resort, guys. Remember that time you got kicked in the 'nads? Nothing compared to this. Imagine putting your "jewels" into a vise and then having someone tightening the vise. Get the picture? The key, if you have to have surgery, is ice...ice...ice and more ice. Did I mention ice? Do NOT be macho and try to go to work the same day as the surgery. BAD idea (voice of experience). Also, be ready for the worst bout of nausea you've ever experienced. Would I do the surgery again? In a heartbeat. I'm now pain-free and I got the 2-for-1 special in that they repaired the hydrocele "as long as we are in there".

I hope that I answered some of your questions and I hope that the trip to my blog wasn't a waste for you now. If you have questions, e-mail me or leave a comment. I allow anonymous comments, so you don't have to leave your name. Now that your nut feels better, it's time to do the "happy dance"

Where the Hell is Matt? (2008) from Matthew Harding on Vimeo.

Now, for all the lawyers out there: This posting is not meant to treat or diagnose any medical problems, for anybody. These are my personal observations based upon personal experiences. As always, your results may vary. Take everything you read on the internet with a grain of salt. If in doubt, see your doctor. If you fail to see your doctor based upon what you have read here, and your nut explodes, don't blame me...you are the idiot who went to the internet for answers instead of going to see your doctor.

Get Home On Time - The Benefits Of Having Your Own Plane

2008-07-21T13:43:00.003-07:00

Not that I could ever afford a Citation Jet, but it would be interesting to see the same comparison on a shorter flight with say...an RV-7. I still think that it would be "No Contest".

Back in the "olden days", I had a brother-in-law who was a shyster ...ermmm... a lawyer (resists telling joke about how to tell when a lawyer is lying? You look to see if his lips are moving) He had a client who needed to get to a divorce proceeding in KDAG. To go there, with the client, meant leaving the day before and flying to KONT, renting a car, getting 2 rooms at a motel, meals and wasted time . The entire undertaking would have taken 3 days. He paid for the aircraft cost only (billed to the client) and bought me a nice lunch and dinner for my efforts and we were able to fly down and back to KSJC in a single day. A huge savings of time for him and a huge savings of money for his client.

Another Passenger Attempts To Open Door On Flight

2008-07-18T15:21:00.004-07:00

Screenshot courtesy flightaware.com

Here we go again...only this time, the passenger happened to be naked. Members of the New England Revolution soccer team and their coach subdued the man and flight attendants put the man into flexi-cuffs after the man attempted to open a door on American Flight 725 bound for Los Angeles from Boston Logan airport.

The flight had to divert to Oklahoma City where the passenger was removed from the flight and arrested and the flight continued to Los Angeles.

No details have been released regarding this incident.

Drunk Passenger Tries To Open Door On Flight

2008-07-17T11:06:00.002-07:00

Ok, so I have ranted on this before. Alcohol should be banned on flights. Here is a perfect reason for this.

Cigarettes were banned from flights, years ago, as a "safety measure". Now we have a passenger who was drinking before the flight took off and continuing to drink in-flight, who attempted to open a door while the flight was going from London, Gatwick to Havana, Cuba. The article states that, "The man had been abusive to passengers and staff on the flight from Gatwick to Cuba" and this was before the door incident.

If your plane had an emergency and had to be evacuated, would you want a planeload of drunks blocking your egress? I wouldn't, and neither should you.

I propose banning all alcohol from all flights and all airports. Having a place in the airport to get "hammered" before your flight seems just plain wrong to me, and getting "hammered" on board an aircraft should not be tolerated. Your thoughts?

6-Step Stroll Through The Park

2008-07-14T14:44:00.010-07:00

It is HOT again! I intended to drive to the beach where it is lovely and cool...but, my eco-logical side kicked in and cancelled my plans. I stayed closer to home, still got to ride in my air-conditioned car and burned a lot less gasoline.

I tried a new video technique. The video is comprised of still photos, shot at 6 step intervals along the trail. My journey also led me to post an idea on the Halfbakery. Be sure check out the Halfbakery site. Weird, funny, thoughtful, stupid...you name it! Lots of ideas.

Video: Red Apple Karaoke 7-9-08

2008-07-09T23:30:00.000-07:00

I wasn't the only genius who took shelter from the heat and made the trip to the Red Apple.

We actually had good singers, great singers and awesome singers last night. You have to decide which is which. Of course not everyone was taped and the poor singer was omitted, explaining why there is no video of me. I've posted some snippets of the singers who were taped, onto this video.

Note: If you are singer and would like a full, dvd quality clip, e-mail me. You must put "Karaoke Clip Request" in the subject line of your e-mail and indicate in your message the time that your snippet starts so I can send you the correct video.

For a limited time only, there is no charge for your video if your have Yahoo Messenger and can do a direct file transfer. I'll send instructions in a reply to your e-mail. No requests will be honored after July 20th when the original video will be erased.

A Hot Summer Day

2008-07-09T19:48:00.005-07:00

Yes, it was bloody hot here today (don't tell them Californicates who keep moving up here...in droves. We gladly encourage them to think that it rains every day). I thought a video of a placid stream would cool me down.

It got so bad this afternoon that I took a cold shower, fully clothed. Yeah, it kept me cool for about an hour and now my clothes are bone dry.

The music is from 39 years ago. Probably before most of you were born, but still great music. Enjoy. I'm off to an air-conditioned karaoke bar to sip cold 7-Up. It costs $1.25 with free refills. How much is your air-conditioning costing you?

Go Flying with 466 Papa Golf

2008-07-08T16:28:00.002-07:00

David Gamble takes you on a flight to French Lick. Great flying and casino videos. I suggest you go to his website, The Papa Golf Chronicles, to get the background on what is going on (including the aborted landing on the way home). Awesome video.

PapaGolf goes to French Lick, IN from D Gamble on Vimeo.

What Is The Definition Of A Geek?

2008-07-08T03:56:00.004-07:00

A geek is someone who will drive way out in the boonies* at 03:00 AM to take a picture of the International Space Station as it flies overhead. With the new Japanese module attached it was brighter than a low-hanging Jupiter. I used a 3 minute exposure to capture these images.

Click on the image to see full size. You will notice a blurring of the stars and that is due to the rotation of the Earth in the 3 minutes that the shutter was open.

To see when the ISS will be passing over your head, go here.

*The location I chose is an area in the Santiam Canyon that spreads out and gives an excellent view of the skies. It can be pretty creepy at 03:00 AM though (don't trip on the headstones)

While I was at it, I decided to take a picture of the Milky Way.

1 in 2000 Chance of Winning

2008-07-08T00:09:00.003-07:00

Anyone who knows me understands the name of my blog. For those who don't know me, let me tell you that I would sacrifice a part of my anatomy for a plane.

As of today, I have a 1 in 2000 chance of winning one. The Dakota Territory Air Museum is raffling a plane and there are only 2000 tickets available for sale (well, now there are less than that). If I win, I'll be a very happy camper. I'll be sitting, impatiently, by my phone come August 17th.

3rd Time Is A Charm For Oregon Balloonist

2008-07-07T18:14:00.004-07:00

Kent Couch has finally made his dream come true after 2 failed attempts in 2006 and 2007. Kent strapped 150 helium-filled party balloons to his lawn chair, packed his coffee, his BB gun, a parachute and 2 GPS devices and lifted off from Bend, OR.

After a 9-hour trip, Kent set down in Cambridge, Idaho to amazed onlookers. Kent was quoted as saying, "If I had the time and money and people, I'd do this every weekend."

Personally, I think that with the expense of 3 attempts to fly from Bend to Idaho, he could have obtained his Balloon or Sport Pilot Certificate with the money spent so far. But, to each his own.

New Poll

2008-07-06T12:33:00.003-07:00

I have had numerous people (well, 1 or 2) ask me to change my blog name. Having "My Left Nut" showing up on your Favorites doesn't appeal to those few. So, the big question to be decided here is: Should I change the name of my blog?

As former Mayor, Richard Daley used to say, "Vote for me, and vote often". Like Mayor Daley, I allow votes from people who are long dead. Also like Mayor Daley, you may vote more than once. Finally, you can be registered as Democrat, Republican, Independent or Vegetarian Party...it doesn't matter. Everyone is welcome to vote.

If you have a suggestion for a new blog name, please leave it in the comments for my consideration (or ignore-ation).

Windows® Movie Maker® 101

2008-07-05T20:50:00.006-07:00

"Mom" wanted some help adding audio to a video slide show. Here it is. If you have any additional questions, please don't hesitate to ask.

Sorry that the screenshots are a little fuzzy. In the process of converting, something happened. It should still be helpful though.

Video of Fireworks in Stayton, OR - 7-4-2008

2008-07-04T23:59:00.002-07:00

Stayton put on a great fireworks show this year. The had a number of "faux finales" and it really got the cheers going from the crowd. The grand finale brought the house down. Good job Stayton.

Parking was not quite as nice as the show. Next year, I won't even start my car until ½ hour after the show is over. Parking was dusty and with only a single driveway for 1,000's of cars...well, you get the picture. I finally parked and listened to Luciano Pavarotti sing Puccini's "Nessun Dorma". Awesome!

Video Stills - Stayton Fireworks - 7-4-2008

2008-07-04T23:57:00.003-07:00

Stayton 4th of July Parade - July 4, 2008 (Redacted)

2008-07-04T18:51:00.006-07:00

If you want to see high-quality pictures of the parade, check out Celine's blog. She takes absolutely fanatastic photos. If she ever decides to give lessons, I'm first in line.

(I'll have to figure out how to stop my hands and body from shaking to even take a "decent" photo)

Long Weekend at the Red Apple

2008-07-03T23:59:00.004-07:00

Karaoke at the Red Apple. A nice, clean and friendly bar. If you get hungry, prepare yourself for some GREAT chinese food served by Sue.

Born To Be Wild

All My Ex's Live In Texas

2008-07-03T23:58:00.001-07:00

This Man And This Woman

Realize

Every Rose Has Its Thorn

2008-07-03T23:55:00.001-07:00

2008-07-03T23:50:00.001-07:00

2008-07-03T23:40:00.001-07:00

2008-07-03T11:59:00.001-07:00

I Cross My Heart

Epiphany

Dead Or Alive

2008-07-02T23:57:00.001-07:00

Tunguska Anniversary 6-30-1908

2008-06-29T19:40:00.006-07:00

100 years ago, today, a huge fireball descended near the remote town of Tunguska in Russia. The object was estimated to be 50 feet across and exploded 3-5 miles above the earth where it leveled an area of 830 square miles. People 100 miles away were knocked to their feet and and the explosion was equivalent to a yield of 10-15 megaqtons of TNT. There is still debate as to whether the object was a comet or a meteor. Amazingly, there were no fatalities due to the remote location. Had this occured in a larger city, the devastation would have been complete and far-ranging.

To see when the next blast will occur, check here for current impact risks. Remember to keep your head down.

O/T But Interresting

2008-06-29T11:10:00.002-07:00

This has nothing at all to do with flying, but the artistic side of me found it interesting.

Only 6 days left to send your name to the moon

2008-06-21T08:49:00.004-07:00

NASA is giving everyone a chance to send their name to the moon on a microchip. Register here to get your name on the chip and to print out your certificate of participation or save as a .pdf file.

The deadline is June 27th, so don't delay.

What Does It Take To Be An Airline Pilot? (Humor)

2008-06-14T15:13:00.000-07:00

Big Brass Balls

2008-05-30T19:41:00.003-07:00

From Short Final

Overheard in IFR Magazine's "On the Air"

While on a trip in a Grumman Cheetah from Marathon, Florida Keys to Exuma in the Bahamas, I ran into a large area of clouds hanging over Andros Island. They'd been classified as benign when I'd received my weather briefing about an hour and a half earlier. I penetrated with a warning from Miami Center:

Miami Center: "Grumman XXXXX, I show a large area of weather ahead of you. How would you like to proceed?"

Grumman: "My Stormscope shows it's not active. I'll continue on course."

[a few minutes later]
Miami Center: "Grumman XXXXX, say flight conditions."

Grumman: "It's a little bumpy, but other than that it's fine."

[a few minutes later, after it suddenly turned active]
Grumman: "Miami Center, Grumman XXXXX, experiencing ... severe ... turbulence. Request ... lower."
[I went up and down at about 2000 feet per minute. The Stormscope lit up all around us. We were tossed on our side.]

Miami Center: "Grumman XXXXX, unable lower at this time. I'll have to call Nassau to get lower."
I righted the airplane. Everything flew around the cockpit. I saw a hole and aimed for it.

[a few minutes later]
Grumman: "Miami Center, Grumman XXXXX, we're out of the weather now. Sorry about the deviation, but I could not hold altitude or course."

Miami Center: "Not a problem, I understand."

A passing airliner overheard this ...
Airliner: "Miami, Airliner XXXX, that guy that penetrated the weather over Andros — what kind of airplane did he say he was flying?"

Miami Center: "A Grumman."

Airliner: "Like a big Grumman?"

Miami Center: "No, like a little Grumman Cheetah.

Airliner: "A Cheetah? Wow, he's got a lot of balls."

Miami Center: "Airliner XXXX, I'm sorry, sir, you broke up. Say again?"

Airliner: "I said, he's got a lot of balls."

Miami Center: "Airliner XXXX, I'm sorry, sir, you are coming in broken up again. I believe you said (ahem) that he was a very brave man?"

Bob Brayman - Marathon, Florida Keys

A Few Minutes Of Perspective

2008-05-27T05:56:00.000-07:00

RVator #2 Is Online

2008-05-12T04:34:00.004-07:00

Issue #2 of the RVator is online. The biggest write-up surrounds the RV-12 and answers many of the questions concerning E-LSA vs. S-LSA.

Summer Survival

2008-05-09T16:07:00.006-07:00

Okay, it's the time of year where everyone dusts off the cobwebs and takes to the air. We have current charts, we've done our T&G's until we feel like we won't scare ourselves, or our passengers. So, what's left?

Looking back to the loss of Steve Fossett, I wonder if he survived the crash, yet succumbed to the desert. We are all great pilots and the odds of crashing are minute....but.

Humans can live for weeks or even months without food (maybe a year in my case [wink]), Humans are hard-pressed to go 3 days in summer heat without water. At 8.3370 pounds per gallon and hoping for enough water to potentially last for weeks, I would have to offload passengers, fuel or baggage. Not always an option. So, how can I get water? I've spent a lot of time in the desert Southwest and can attest that a solar still works and the components weigh in at a few ounces.

So, water is taken care of...what's next? Food. Now before you start packing in those packs of Oberto® Beef Jerky, think about this: Jerky = salted protein. Yes, you want some salt, but protein digestion requires vast quantities of water (we crashed in the desert, remember?). The foods that you want are fats, sugars, starch and a bit of salt. I find that dehydrated fruits are a great source of energy, weigh little and travel well. For pure energy, nothing can beat a Snickers® Bar for packed calories and fat with a bit of sodium and protein. Only downside is the melt factor.

Let's see...water, food. What's next? How about fixing any injuries to ourselves or our passengers. Is our first aid kit going to do it? I worked many years as a Trauma Tech and I can tell you that band aids and a bit of Neosporin® won't be worth @#%! in a major accident. What do you have in your first aid kit to stop REAL bleeding? I wanted something compact, sterile, individually wrapped with something to tie around an affected limb and it had to be absorbent. Hmmmm....Viola! Maternity pads fit every criteria. For those going “EWWWwww”, think back to Vietnam and the field dressings. Basically a maternity pad in army green...No? These pads are cheap ($44.99 for a case of 288 works out to a little over 15¢ each) and you could split the case among other flying friends. Last, always carry a Leatherman-type tool with you. A knife is a wonderful survival tool, but the pliers can be used to break off parts of the airplane. Longerons make a great splint.

Even though we are stuck in the desert, the nights can become bitterly cold and there is still no substitute for a space blanket. I must admit, as I've aged and the weight of sleeping bags have come down, my space blanket is augmented with the sleeping bag. A very light summer bag can become a 3-season bag with the addition of the space blanket.

Next I want to signal rescuers. A few options here. Fire works, but if I'm out in dry scrub, I would really hate to start a major range fire. You quit smoking and don't carry matches or lighters anymore. Good for you. But, what do you do for a fire? You have all of the tools right on your plane. A few lengths of wire and your plane's battery will work pretty well. For those of you who want a bit “more power” (insert testosterone grunts here), put a bag of fine steel wool in your survival kit. Take a piece of steel wool as big as your fist and pull and twist two “arms” on opposite sides to a length of about 12”. Place your kindling on top of the steel wool and connect your wires to the ends of the protruding arms. Touch the wires to the battery terminals and instant fire. It can become quite bright with a fully charged battery and the flash may be enough to signal help. If you don't believe that steel wool burns, take some ØØØ steel wool from your shop and touch a 9 volt battery to the wool. What if fire is too risky? Those CD's you listen to make excellent reflectors and you can use the center hole to aim the reflection. I carry a 5mw green laser that will shine to about 20,000 feet. No, I do not want to shine it in the cockpit, but it leaves a visible “track” that can be shone ahead of the aircraft flying overhead.

Finally, what doomed Steve Fossett was that he failed to file a flight plan. He was only going for a local flight and they have yet to find him. ALWAYS file a flight plan and hopefully you'll use little of your emergency kit. But, take it along, just in case.

Safe flying.

Good News For West Coast Pilots

2008-05-05T12:45:00.002-07:00

The FAA has issued a Notice of Proposed Rule Making (NPRM)

(notice item 9, highlighted in red)

This proposed rule would--

1. Replace sport pilot privileges with aircraft category and class ratings on all pilot certificates.

2. Replace sport pilot flight instructor privileges with aircraft category ratings on all flight instructor certificates.

3. Remove current provisions for the conduct of proficiency checks by flight instructors and include provisions for the issuance of category and class ratings by designated pilot examiners.

4. Place all requirements for flight instructors under a single subpart (subpart H) of part 61.

5. Require 1 hour of flight training on the control and maneuvering of an airplane solely by reference to instruments for student pilots seeking a sport pilot certificate to operate an airplane with a V_Hgreater than 87 knots CAS and sport pilots operating airplanes with a V_Hgreater than 87 knots CAS.

6. Remove the requirement for persons exercising sport pilot privileges and flight instructors with a sport pilot rating to carry their logbooks while in flight.

7. Remove the requirement that persons exercising sport pilot privileges have an aircraft make-and-model endorsement to operate a specific set of aircraft while adding specific regulatory provisions for endorsements for the operation of powered parachutes with elliptical wings and aircraft with a V_H less than or equal to 87 knots CAS.

8. Remove the requirement for all flight instructors to log at least 5 hours of flight time in a make and model of light-sport aircraft before providing training in any aircraft from the same set of aircraft in which that training is given.

9. Permit persons exercising sport pilot privileges and the privileges of a student pilot seeking a sport pilot certificate to fly up to an altitude of not more than 10,000 feet mean sea level (MSL) or 2,000 feet above ground level (AGL), whichever is higher.

10. Permit private pilots to receive compensation for production flight testing powered parachutes and weight-shift-control aircraft intended for certification in the light-sport category under §21.190.

11. Revise student sport pilot solo cross-country navigation and communication flight training requirements.

12. Clarify cross-country distance requirements for private pilots seeking to operate weight-shift-control aircraft.

13. Revise aeronautical experience requirements at towered airports for persons seeking to operate a powered parachute or weight-shift-control aircraft as a private pilot.

14. Remove the requirement for pilots with only a powered parachute or a weight-shift-control aircraft rating to take a knowledge test for an additional rating at the same certificate level.

15. Revise the amount of hours of flight training an applicant for a sport pilot certificate must log within 60 days prior to taking the practical test.

16. Remove expired ultralight transition provisions and limit the use of aeronautical experience obtained in ultralight vehicles.

17. Add a requirement for student pilots to obtain endorsements identical to those proposed for sport pilots in §§61.324 and 61.327.

18. Clarify that an authorized instructor must be in a powered parachute when providing flight instruction to a student pilot.

19. Remove the requirement for aircraft certificated as experimental aircraft in the light-sport category to comply with the applicable maintenance and preventive maintenance requirements of part 43 when those aircraft have been previously issued a special airworthiness certificate in the light-sport category.

20. Require aircraft owners or operators to retain a record of the current status of applicable safety directives for special light-sport aircraft.

21. Provide for the use of aircraft with a special airworthiness certificate in the light-sport category in training courses approved under part 141.

22. Revise the minimum safe-altitude requirements for powered parachutes and weight-shift-control aircraft.

Update On Floating Priest From Brazil

2008-04-30T03:17:00.001-07:00

Brazil's navy has ended its search for a priest who vanished more than a week ago while floating over the Atlantic strapped to 1,000 helium-filled balloons in a bid to raise money for charity. The Rev. Adelir Antonio de Carli, 41, has been missing since April 20.

Update On Jim Cone RV-12 Build

2008-04-29T08:04:00.000-07:00

Jim Cone has finished the left wing of his first-to-build RV-12. Here are his build pictures. Jim claims 99 hours to complete the first wing. His second should go even quicker. Hope Vans gets their follow-up kits going soon.

If We Ever Get A Sunny Day In Oregon...

2008-04-27T07:11:00.001-07:00

...I just may try this. You can read all about solar balloons here.

Brazilian Priest Floats To Points Unknown On String Of Balloons

2008-04-21T17:55:00.003-07:00

Folks, you can't make this stuff up.

According to the AP:
SAO PAULO, Brazil - A Roman Catholic priest who floated off under hundreds of helium party balloons was missing Monday off the southern coast of Brazil.

Rescuers in helicopters and small fishing boats were searching off the coast of Santa Catarina state, where pieces of balloons were found.

Rev. Adelir Antonio de Carli lifted off from the port city of Paranagua on Sunday afternoon, wearing a helmet, thermal suit and a parachute.

He was reported missing about eight hours later after losing contact with port authority officials, according to the treasurer of his Sao Cristovao parish, Denise Gallas.

Gallas said by telephone that the priest wanted to break a 19-hour record for the most hours flying with balloons to raise money for a spiritual rest-stop for truckers in Paranagua, (emphasis added) Brazil's second-largest port for agricultural products.

Video here. More video. (both in Portuguese)

It's SPRINGTIME(?!?!?) In Oregon

2008-04-19T17:12:00.002-07:00

Oh-kayyy. Enough winter already!

I took these a little while ago in our "big" town of Stayton. It's the closest city to do any kind of shopping.

Why does it always snow when I'm there? This IS April...isn't it???

RV-12 Build Pictures

2008-04-18T09:48:00.002-07:00

Yep, Jim Cone got the first RV-12 wing kit and he seems to be flying through construction...if his photos are any indication. If he can get all the component kits in a timely fashion, we may see the first owner-built RV-12 flying by this summer. Jim is a 4-time offender, having built 2 RV-6A's, a -7A and now the -12. With his experience, he may even be flying by the end of spring!

Update 3: Rare 5.4 Earthquake Hits Illinois

2008-04-18T03:05:00.010-07:00

Janet Clem, 37, looks at the damage to her home in Mt. Carmel, Ill. Friday morning April 18, 2008 after the 5.2 early morning earth quake.(AP Photo/Daniel R. Patmore)

Picture from CNN showing damage in Louisville, KY

A 5.4 earthquake hit Illinois early this morning. It was located at 38.520°N, 87.873°W. The rare tremor hit at 04:36:56 AM [CT].

If you felt the quake, you can go here to record your observations. There have been no reports of any damage so far.

A record of past Illinois earthquakes can be found here.

CNN is reporting some minor damage in Louisville Kentucky.

Interestingly, today is the 102nd anniversary of the Great San Francisco Earthquake and Fire.

The N-Prize Is Here

2008-04-15T11:46:00.003-07:00

A prize has been announced for the launch and orbit of a microsatellite. You can view details here.

Redrawing The Map Of Oregon (?)

2008-04-14T15:35:00.002-07:00

Scientists have measured over 600 earthquakes off the coast of Oregon in the last 10 days. Scientists state, "feedback related to the abrupt earthquake ‘swarm’ suggests that such swarming is generally accepted as a prelude to a volcanic eruption"

Above is a suggested map after the event is over.

Jerald Greenberg Shares His RV-12 Demo Flight

2008-04-14T13:13:00.004-07:00

Thank-you Jerry, again, for letting us all experience SnF 2008 and the RV-12.

Jerry wrote: "Here's a 10min 6sec raw video of the "the yellow canary" (N912RV) taking off from Plant City Airport on 4/11/2008. My pilot was "Gus" a very capable pilot & a nice guy who was PIC during my almost 30 minute demo ride. I had control of the plane a few hundred feet after takeoff for a climb out of 70 knots @ 850 fpm.

This RV-12 was a very nice, smooth and comfortable LSA to fly. I've flown high winged Tecnam P-92 Super Echos, a FantasyAir Allegro 2007 and low winged Tecnam Sierra ... my favorite.

The previous slide shows had a picture of the Tecnam Sierra which has a sticker price of $141,000 ... very well decked out, and worth every penny. I felt that the RV-12 performed just as well as the $141,000 bird. (IF Van's Aircraft was on the NYSE ...I'd say BUY)

I performed shallow turns ...a very responsive plane ... easy to keep straight and level ... smooth ... only bumps were my being unable to hold the camera steady (Kodak P880 picture and video camera, no anti-"shake" mechanism built in). Not sure the the proper terminology but the plane just wanted to fly straight and level.

Gus also performed some slow speed, full flaps stall on this video. One of these stalls broke down and to the left (may not be on the vid) ... but was easily fixed by lowering the nose and inputting some left rudder.

My turns felt good ... didn't feel like I was slipping or skidding at all and my feet never activated the rudders. Having never flown a plane with a glass cockpit, I had no idea where the turn coordinator (ball) was anyway!"

KITPLANES Magazine: Vans RV-12 LSA Light Sport Aircraft

2008-04-12T12:07:00.000-07:00

Video: Demo Ride In Prototype #1 RV-12

2008-04-12T11:55:00.003-07:00

Thanks to JerryG150 who has been keeping us up-to-date on the RV-12 from SnF 2008.

Getting Out

2008-04-12T11:51:00.000-07:00

EAA Interviews Van On The RV-12 And The 51% Rule

2008-04-11T08:36:00.001-07:00

Technology Getting Better and Prices Falling

2008-04-09T10:38:00.002-07:00

It seems to me that I saw another version of this in the $100K range not too long ago. Now, $15K...WOW! Forward Vision® is making this attainable for GA pilots. Hopefully, this would entirely eliminate CFIT.

2nd Jerry Greenberg Video of N421RV From SnF 2008

2008-04-09T10:12:00.001-07:00

Thanks for taking the time to let us all be there, Jerry!

Hi-resolution stills of the RV-12

2008-04-09T10:02:00.003-07:00

Jerry Greenberg has posted a slide show from SnF 2008. VERY heavy on the RV-12 pics (grin).

Thanks for sharing, Jerry.

Note: Jerry has already placed his order for the -12. The photos are excellent. You could almost do a plans-built just from the photos.

RV-12 N412RV Video Walkaround From SnF 2008

2008-04-09T09:52:00.001-07:00

New RV-12 N412RV Detail Photos

2008-04-08T11:25:00.004-07:00

Drool bib alert!

These new photos make me want to blow the budget and start on a wing kit. I still believe that the response to the -12 will be far beyond expectations.

RV-12 Price Posted (Sort of...)

2008-04-07T19:30:00.003-07:00

Photo courtesy of Vans website

Vans has posted a partial price list for the RV-12 kit. The only price posted thus far is the wing kit at $5480.00 with a lead time of 4-6 weeks.

The wing kit will be pre-punched and is priced $900.00 less than the RV-9/9A wing kit. I predict that the -12 will outsell every other model in short order.

Am I the only one going over their checkbook to see how soon they can start building?

Video: Boeing Testing New Hydrogen-Powered Plane

2008-04-05T11:55:00.003-08:00

A Boeing hydrogen-powered plane is now undergoing testing. Boeing's experimental aircraft is powered by hydrogen fuel cells is off the ground and Boeing said this week it had successful tested the hydrogen propulsion of its new unmanned ISR plane.

The breakthrough is "full of promises for a greener future," Boeing Chief Technology Officer John Tracy told reporters at the company's research center in Ocana, Spain, where the aircraft was on display, according to a report from the Associated Press.

The development was "a historical technological success for Boeing (and) ... full of promises for a greener future," Tracy told the news conference. Boeing said in a statement that, "Using a Ford Motor Company-developed hydrogen engine," it had "successfully tested the hydrogen propulsion system of its High Altitude Long Endurance -- HALE -- unmanned aircraft."

Boeing said the HALE was "designed to stay aloft for more than seven days and carry payloads weighing up to 2,000 pounds. Potential applications include battlefield persistent intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, border observation, port security and telecommunications. The long endurance autonomous aircraft will be a propeller-driven, lightweight structure with a high-aspect-ratio-wing."

2008-04-02T18:28:00.001-08:00

Created by OnePlusYou

Nipple Rings & Terrorists?

2008-03-28T10:35:00.003-08:00

A woman from Texas had to remove her nipple rings after TSA agents demanded they be removed at Los Angeles Airport. The woman, 37 year-old Mandi Hamlin, was able to remove one nipple ring but had to use pliers to remove the second ring.

Hamlin had set off alarms while being screened. She offered to have a female agent examine her, but the TSA required she remove the piercings.

Unless the terrorists have devised a new type of IED that can fit into a nipple ring, this seems a bit overkill. The fact that our borders are as porous as a screen door and anyone can come into the country seems to have gotten past King Duhbya and his War on Terror. We sure won't have any nipple ring IED's going off anytime soon.

Hamlin has demanded an apology from the TSA. I think $he may be demanding $omething more $ub$tantial in the future.

New Video From "Groucho" Bryan Duke

2008-03-27T01:34:00.003-08:00

Bryan Duke again has a great new video. Sit back, tighten your seat belts and enjoy.

My Jaw Dropped

2008-03-24T18:09:00.003-08:00

This has absolutely nothing to do with flying. I watched this video and was speechless afterward.

Name That Plane 2 Contest (HINT)

2008-03-15T16:07:00.003-08:00

Ohh-kay...no guesses yet in the Name That Plane 2 contest. The CASH PRIZE is still in play!

A hint: The aeroplano is a venturi ducted fan that ran the full length of the aircraft and the pilot sat on the top of the tube. Let's get a winner this time.

Video of Saudi Airlines 777 Landing with Hole in Wing

2008-03-14T08:32:00.002-08:00

"SA FLIGHT from Jeddah to Riyadh on 10.03.08. Damage on right wing of 777 just a few minutes before landing at 900 m altitude. Hydraulic lines cut and fluids are draining huge hole in the top of the wing. This looks like mechanical failure of certain parts - it happend with a very loud bang."

Updated 3-14-08: N412RV Flies!

2008-03-13T21:16:00.004-08:00

According to Vans, RV-12 N412RV:

"On March 12, Van took advantage of a good patch of weather and made a short first flight. He reported that the new wing flew much like the old one and the elevator was slightly lighter. (The following day, today, the weather was miserable – gusting winds and blowing rain – so we will have to wait for more details of flying qualities and performance.)

Final details of the kit and kit pricing are being analyzed and worked out. No orders will be taken, waiting lists established or bribes accepted before April 8."

Wings of Freedom March 13-23

2008-03-13T14:40:00.003-08:00

If you're anywhere near Dallas Love Field, take the time to tour the great bombers of WWII. If you have an extra $325.00 to $425.00, take a flight aboard one of these historic aircraft.

Admission to the walk-through tour is only $12 adults and $7 for children 12 and under. No reservations are required. Be advised that if you take the young ones that they may become addicted to flying as I did when my dad took me to my first airshow.

NTSB Releases Preliminary Report For Titusville Crash

2008-03-12T20:41:00.002-08:00

The NTSB has released the preliminary report for the accident that claimed 3 lives on March 1 at Arthur Dunn Air Park in Titusville, Florida.

The report states that the Velocity Aircraft, N244CU, departed the runway and collided with the Vans RV-8, N128RV.

Here is a partial from the report:
"According to witnesses, the purpose of the arriving flights was for the participation in the Experiment Aircraft Association's (EAA) monthly pancake breakfast. There were several witnesses that had arrived at the airport in airplanes just prior to the accident. The witnesses stated that a flight of 4 RV-8's landed in formation. Following uneventful landings the 4 RV-8's were exiting the runway at intersection B. The lead RV-8, N128RV had entered the intersection and was midway between runway 15 and the parallel taxiway when it was struck from the left side by the Velocity.

Witnesses stated that the Velocity had landed on runway 15 following the flight of 4 RV-8's and departed the runway on the left side entering a grassy area separating the runway and taxiway. The Velocity continued in the grass and witnesses stated that they observed the Velocity collide with the RV-8 in a left bank and with full engine power. Both airplane's exploded into a fire ball.

On scene examination of the RV-8 found it in a grassy area adjacent to intersection B. The wreckage was on a heading of 280-degrees. The fuselage, cabin and upper left wing were consumed by the post impact fire.

On scene examination of the Velocity found it inverted 330 feet beyond the RV-8 coming to rest on a heading of 330-degrees. The fuselage, right wing and cockpit were consumed by the post impact fire."

RV-12 N412RV Rollout

2008-03-12T05:12:00.000-08:00

Note the new ("not yellow") paint scheme. If I can make the drive, I'll try to get some pics of the RV-12 and post them here.

Realtime Tracking for Endeavour and the ISS

2008-03-10T22:41:00.000-08:00

NASA realtime tracking.

Direct Link For STS-123 Endeavour Flight

2008-03-10T19:18:00.003-08:00

NASA TV This link will open in Windows Media Player®. Endeavour is scheduled for launch at 2:28 a.m. EDT.

Raw Video Footage of Titusville Crash

2008-03-09T10:07:00.003-08:00

Here is KXLY raw video footage from the crash of a Velocity aircraft with a Vans RV-8 on March 1, 2008.

New Airline Safety Video

2008-03-08T22:09:00.001-08:00

Name That Plane 2

2008-03-07T05:15:00.003-08:00

There was no winner in the first "Name That Plane" contest, so the CASH PRIZE will roll over to the new contest. The correct answer to plane #1 was "Optica Scout".

Again, the rules are simple. Name the plane and collect the cash. Here is plane #2.

Light Plane Violates Washington, DC Airspace

2008-03-05T23:10:00.005-08:00

Shortly after 6:00 PM on Wednesday, a light plane flew into the Washington restricted airspace. The twin-engine Beech flew in from the North at 14,500 feet and below the 18,000 feet floor of the restricted space.

Two F-16's scrambled and intercepted the aircraft within the restricted airspace. The fighter pilots identified the aircraft and escorted it outside of the restricted airspace.

Federal law enforcement admits the plane was in airspace near the U.S. Capitol but did not say how close it was.

In this day of EFIS and GPS and post 9/11, these incursions should never happen. If we are to maintain a reasonably open sky for ourselves, these incursions need to cease. With presidential campaigns in full swing, we pilots must be extra vigilant to TFR's that may pop up with little notice.

Lake Villa, IL Man Makes Poor Choice For Landing

2008-03-04T09:07:00.005-08:00

Lake Villa resident Robert Kadera, 65, unfastens a tension cable to remove ski landing gear from his 1949 Piper Clipper as he prepares it for transport Monday at Ernie's Service Center in Vernon Hills. Kadera, who landed his plane on the Marriott Lincolnshire Golf Course Saturday, had the plane towed to Ernie's by the Lincolnshire Police Department. Police and the Federal Aviation Administration are investigating charges and whether to revoke his pilot's license. (Tribune photo by David Trotman-Wilkins / March 3, 2008)

Robert Kadera, 65 made a poor choice of landing sites that could mean charges will be brought against the Lake Villa pilot.

Police received numerous worried calls about a plane circling twice, and then touching down at the Crane's Landing golf course at the Marriott Lincolnshire Resort. Officials thought they might have a crash with victims.

Kadera was running late for his son's tennis tuneup so he had hopped in his Piper Clipper with his 14 year-old son, Isaac. They flew above the congested roads and landed at a golf course across a highway from the tennis club, where skis on the underside of plane glided across the snow-covered fairway.

Police would not allow Kadera to fly his plane off the fairway at the Marriott resort. Instead, the plane was towed following a 7-hour operation.

Heartstopping Landing Attempt

2008-03-03T08:11:00.001-08:00

Amazing new video today of a Lufthansa jet, flying from Munich to Hamburg with 137 passengers, veering back and forth in 150 mile per hour gusting winds. The plane came within "a split second of crashing" and after just touching down, a wing tip hit the runway and the plane bounced sideways on the runway. The now-hailed pilots shot back up, tried again and landed safely.

Titusville Crash Update And video

2008-03-02T13:52:00.002-08:00

The Orlando Sentinal is reporting that a third person has died following the crash of 2 homebuilt aircraft yesterday. There is no information on the person who died and it is not known whether it was the pilot or passenger.

How Stupid Can The Non-Flying Public Be?

2008-03-02T05:07:00.009-08:00

This comment, from an article written on the Titusville, Fl crash made me laugh and want to strangle the author. My comments are in yellow.

"#1 Phil White - Nedw smyrna Beach Fl - 3/2/2008 3:38:00 AM Why do the Federal and State authorities continue to allow experimental planes to be built and fly. Are these planes checked before their first flight by any authority or does someone just build the plane and take off? So, Phil...they were flying something that was built over a weekend with chewing gum and electrical tape, huh? Try putting 4, 5, 6 or more years of your life into building an aircraft. Too many people die in these planes and something should be done to regulate them as automobiles are. Phil, do you realize that more people are killed each year in cars, than were killed in the entire Vietnam war? (57,695 killed by cars in 2006 - 52,000 American soldiers were killed in battle in all of Vietnam) If you want to see a lot of deaths, go to the NTSB aviation database and search for all Cessna/Fatal. The reason why the experimental class of aircraft has seen a rise in accidents is because more are now flying. For comparison, which automobile has the greatest number of accidents? The Toyota Corolla. Because it's unsafe? No, because it is the all-time largest selling automobile is existence. After working 10 years as a trauma tech, I can assure you that cars kill much more than aircraft. You can't build and experimental automobile and drive it without federal and state authorities looking over your shoulder! Usually most of these crashes are experimental planes with an older person behind the controls. Older pilots are evidently not as regulated as the older people with automobile licenses are. They should probably be checked more often both mentally and physically the automobile owners." Okay, now you hit a sore point! I lived in Cape Coral, Fl "the home of the newly wed, and the nearly dead", I can attest that older drivers are NOT checked, physically. Try flying with anything wrong. Have a heart attack...they take away your driver's license? Nope...but a pilot will be grounded. The funniest part is that the "old pilots" were on the ground in their RV-8 and were hit by the Velocity aircraft. The comments that this "expert writer of commentary" left show how poorly the non-flying public understands flying. We need to educate them

Name That Plane

2008-03-02T00:08:00.004-08:00

Be the first to identify this aircraft and WIN!! A prize of $1.37USD* will be awarded to the first person to correctly identify the aircraft above.

*The prize winner will be required to drive to Idanha, Oregon in order to pick up their winnings. All travel expenses will be paid by the winner. If the winner declines their prize, no alternate prize will be offered and the grand prize will roll over to the next contest. The winner is responsible for all taxes and must agree to allow their images to be used for advertising purposes without any further compensation.

Does It Snow In Oregon?

2008-03-01T23:32:00.002-08:00

Idea For Sorting Rivets

2008-03-01T20:56:00.008-08:00

I was reading Matt's RV-7 Project blog and wondering if there is an easier way to sort various-sized rivets that sometimes come "grouped" into a single bag.

My idea is to take a piece of Delrin® or other hard plastic and use a router to cut an angle, equal to the angle of the rivet head, along the length.

At the botton of the groove, an additional slot that is equal to a specific length rivet would be routed. You could have multiple sorters for different size rivets.

You should be able to pour the rivets into the trough and they should settle into the groove and all rivets beyond the depth of the groove would stand "proud" of the trough. Remove these and you should have all equal length rivets.

A (very rough) drawing of the cross section shows above.

Comments?