Redneck In Missouri 

It is always good when we get compliments, but every so often we print an issue and within days I get that dreaded phone call.  A deep gruff voice that sounds like it comes from a long haired bearded Missouri mountain man says, “Ralph….  This is that ole redneck in Missouri… I wanna talk to about that last issue.”   

That should be my clue to drop the phone and claim bad connection and hang up.  But after several years of this abuse, I just grab a bottle of Tylenol, pop out three or four and swallow quickly and get prepared for the bomb drop. 

This time, I answered the phone and before I could get Fly-Low Publications out of my mouth, the ‘Redneck’ started in on me.  “You should check your planes before you print.. that plane you pictured was a ‘Bronco’ not a ‘Warthog’ as you printed.”  For the next ten minutes I listened to how there were different and how I should be able to tell from a limited photo of the plane.  Bashful, this Missouri Redneck isn’t.  Usually right, he is - or so he says.  So, I take the abuse.  It’s easier than arguing with him… sometimes… 

Who is he?  Where is he?  Somewhere in the mountains he is a darter.  I’m sure I’ll here from him again, again, and again… 

Another Haunted House

It seems that there is another dark and spooky haunted house that has popped up for General Aviation.  Currently if your plane isn’t in perfect harmony paper-wise with the FAA, you can’t fly.  The rule has been there for years, change of address must be done within thirty days or else.  Now under the guise of security of the homeland, a plane not properly licensed or address incorrect, you’re in deep do-do…   

I don’t mind the importance of keeping everything up to date, but to associate it with the security of America is a bit over-kill.  So we bounce over another obstacle from TSA, Homeland Security and the FAA.  I’ve heard the term “whipping boy” applied to GA.  I am beginning to see it as a truthful accusation.   

Another Year 

We start that new year of 2006…  many of us didn’t figure we would see 2000 and here we are at 2006.  Where does the time go?  The world moves around the sun at 365 days a year, normally.  As I get older, it seems that we circle the sun in about 120 days.  Is it me, or is it a natural phenomenon?  Whatever it is, it’s scary!!!   

It is our hope and wish for you and yours a safe, happy, and exciting New Year with hours and hours of flying logged in your logbook.  Perhaps a new plane in the hangar with a fuel credit card that has no limit and your sister marries an I & A Mechanic who owns loves working on his brother-in-law’s plane for free.