Gary Vacin

The Sun Lakes Aero Club, grounded since March 2020 because of the virus, is taking off again. We are happy to announce our slate of speakers for the 2021-22 year.

The Nov. 15 speaker will be Col. Jim Evans (USAF ret.) talking about “Hot Stuff,” a B-24 aircraft, and the consequential tragedy involving Lt. Gen. Frank Andrews.

On Dec. 20, Col. Bob Denison will discuss clandestine operations during the Vietnam conflict.

Jan. 17 will feature an encore presentation by Jessica Cox, the first armless woman to earn a pilot’s license. This will be Jessica’s third presentation to the Aero Club, dating back to her first appearance in 2009.

The Feb. 21 speaker will be Phil Brewer who will relate what it’s like to be a controller safety officer at the Barry Goldwater Gunnery Range.

March 21 will feature a presentation by airshow and test pilot Bob Bishop, who built and flew a version of the world’s smallest jet aircraft.

On April 18, Col. Jim Evans will make a return appearance with a presentation about airships—the giants of the interwar era.

Gatherings will be in the Sun Lakes Country Club Navajo Room. Coffee and camaraderie will begin at 6:30 p.m. with a guest presentation beginning at 7 p.m.

For additional information on the Aero Club, call Cannon Hill at 509-298-7857, or Gary Vacin at 480-298-7017.