99 News
The Official Magazine of the International Organization of Women Pilots
November/December 2013
99 News – November/December – 2013
2
1-6 Sun ‘n Fun International Fly-In and Expo,
Lakeland, Florida, visit sun-n-fun.org for
scheduled activities. Be sure to stop by The
Ninety-Nines building!
4 WASP of World War II – 70th Anniversary
Commemoration, Lakeland, Florida, hon-
ors surviving WASP, 11:30 a.m. at Buehler
Restoration Center. Contact Nancy Wright,
727-946-1050 or wright99@tampabay.
rr.com to purchase a ticket.
4-6 North Central Section Spring Meeting,
South Bend, Indiana. For more information
contact Marcia Forcey at marciaforcey@
yahoo.com or call 219-728-7835 or
visit http://www.ncs99s.org/ or indianandu-
nes99s.org.
11 JUNE
1 Due date for submissions to the 99 News
for the March/April issue.
JULY
8-13
2014 Ninety-Nines International Confer-
ence, New Orleans, Louisiana.
28- EAA AirVenture Oshkosh, Oshkosh, Wis-
consin. For more information, visit airven-
ture.org.
31 Deadline for submitting Professional Pilot
Leadership Initiative (PPLI) Application for
Mentoring Session B. For more information
go to www.ninety-nines.org/careers/ or
email [email protected].
2013
DECEMBER
20 Deadline for AEMSF application submittal
to Section AE Chairmen.
31 Deadline to submit Bylaws and Standing
Rules proposed amendments.
2014
JANUARY
15 International Awards Deadline. Send your
one-page nomination to International
Headquarters (see page 5 for more infor-
mation). Contact Linda Cain, International
Awards Chairman, at [email protected],
703-669-6326.
31 Deadline to apply for Eastern New England
Chapter and New England Section 2013
scholarships for flight training or college.
The applicant must be either a resident of
one of the six New England states or study-
ing in New England. For questions and
applications for all four scholarships, email
lmaarc[email protected] or mail to Linda Moody,
93A Groton St., Pepperell, MA 01463.
31 Deadline for submitting Professional Pilot
Leadership Initiative (PPLI) Application for
Mentoring Session A. For more information
go to www.ninety-nines.org/careers/ or
email [email protected].
FEBRUARY
1 Due date for submissions to the 99 News
for the March/April issue.
APRIL
1 Due date for submissions to the 99 News
for the May/June issue.
PERPETUAL CALENDAR
On the Cover
To list your 99s events
on this calendar page,
send information to:
The 99 News
4300 Amelia Earhart Dr
Suite A
Oklahoma City, OK
73159-1140
Email:
Online Form:
ninety-nines.
org/99newsreports.html
Please indicate the
name and location
of the event, the
contact name and
the phone/fax/email.
For advertising
information, specs and
rates, or to place an ad,
please contact
advertisingmgr@
ninety-nines.org
99 News
Aug. 3
Have you registered for the 2014 International Confer-
ence in New Orleans? Register by December 31, 2013,
and you will be entered into a drawing for free registra-
tion. The drawing will be held in New Orleans at the
Thursday evening reception on July 10, 2014. Go to
www.regonline.com/ninetynines to get your name in
the hat!
— Lisa Cotham Pizani
2014 Conference Co-Chairman
CORRECTION
In the Milestones section of the September/
October issue, it was incorrectly stated that
Sue Ballew obtained her CFI. Rather, she
achieved Gold Seal Flight Instructor status.
PUT YOUR NAME IN THE HAT FOR FREE 2014 CONFERENCE
REGISTRATION!
Mercedes Eulitt partici-
pated in a record 49-
ship, all RV formation
flight for Breast Cancer
Awareness during the
NFL game of the Kan-
sas City Chiefs against
the Oakland Raiders on
October 13. Also flying
in the formation were
Ninety-Nines Stephanie
Wells and Gretchen Jahn.
The pilots are waiting for
confirmation from Guin-
ness that the flight quali-
fies as a world record.
On the cover, Mercedes,
flying her RV6-A, returns
to the airport with Echo
group after releasing
pink smoke and detaching
from the large formation.
Photo by Pat Dulaney
99 News – November/December – 2013
3
99 News published by
THE NINETY-NINES, INC.
®
International Organization of Women Pilots
A Delaware Nonprofit Corporation
Organized November 2, 1929
(ISSN 1548-565X)
INTERNATIONAL HEADQUARTERS
4300 Amelia Earhart Dr, Suite A
Oklahoma City, OK 73159-1140 USA
405-685-7969 or 800-994-1929
FAX: 405-685-7985
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.ninety-nines.org
PUBLICATIONS COMMITTEE
Donna Crane-Bailey, Chairman
Laura Barnett, Marie Fasano, Lu Hollander,
Susan Larson, Marion Nauman, Janice Pelletti
Bobbi Roe: Editor-in-Chief
Danielle Clarneaux: Associate Editor, Graphics
AVIATRIX PUBLISHING, INC.
Lake Forest, IL 60045-0911
THE 99 NEWS
4300 Amelia Earhart Dr, Suite A
Oklahoma City, OK 73159-1140
Fax: (405) 685-7985
Email: [email protected]g
OFFICERS AND DIRECTORS
Copyright 2013, All Rights Reserved
The Official Magazine of The International Organization of Women Pilots
November/December 2013
Volume 39, Number 6
THE NINETY-NINES MISSION STATEMENT
The Ninety-Nines is the International Organization of Women Pilots that pro-
motes advancement of aviation through education, scholarships, and mutual
support while honoring our unique history and sharing our passion for flight.
EDITORIAL POLICY
The opinions expressed in the articles presented in this magazine are those of the authors
and shall not be construed to represent the policies or opinions of The Ninety-Nines, Inc.
®
99 News is published bimonthly by The Ninety-Nines, Inc.
®
, International Organization of
Women Pilots, at 4300 Amelia Earhart Drive, Suite A, Oklahoma City, OK 73159-1140.
The $12 price of a yearly subscription is included in the annual Ninety-Nines membership
dues. Periodicals postage paid at Oklahoma City, OK and other additional mailing offices.
Neither The Ninety-Nines, Inc. nor the Publisher can accept any responsibility for the cor-
rectness or accuracy of the matters printed herein.
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that is advertised in its printed or online catalogue or magazine.
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mitted for publication. Copy submitted for publication shall become the property of The
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We encourage submissions for publication in the 99 News. Furnish author’s name, email
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Ninety-Nine News
Maureen Kenney
Director
Marjy Leggett
Director
Malinda Caywood
Director
Jan McKenzie
Vice President
Cynthia Madsen
Secretary
Martha Phillips
President
Leslie Ingham
Treasurer
Dianne Cole
Director
Susan Larson
Past President
COUNCIL OF GOVERNORS
Arabian: Alia Al Twal
Australian: Jennifer Graham
Austrian: Monika Stahl
British: Dorothy Pooley
East Canada: Kathy Fox
Far East: Kyung O. Kim
Finnish: Paivi Ilves
French: Isabelle Bazin
German: Ursula Hammer
Ghanaian: Patricia Nyekodzi
India: Nivedita Bhasin
Israeli: Avigail Barbara Colorni
Nepal: Sabina Shrestha
New Zealand: Susan Campbell
Norwegian: Bente Heggedal
Russian: Khalide Makagonova
West Canada: Angelee Skywork
United States:
Mid-Atlantic: Linda Mathias
New England: Lori Plourd
New York-New Jersey: Willie Mattocks
North Central: Paula Hook
Northwest: Andrea Chay
South Central: Cathy Wappler Prudhomme
Southeast: Terry Carbonell
Southwest: Penny Nagy
99 News – November/December – 2013
4
IN EACH ISSUE
2
5
9
9
18
21
23
24
30
Calendar
President’s Page
Careers
Training Milestones
Welcome New Members
Time Travels
Touch & Go
Grass Roots
New Horizons
Nine Award Winners are Ready to
FLY NOW!
by Jacqueline Boyd
World Record Attempt Over NFL Game
Salutes Breast Cancer Awareness
by Mercedes Eulitt
Who Needs to Hear When You’ve Got Wings?
by Nicole Brill
Life Lessons from Flying
by Connie Charles
A Good Landing
by Mary Ford
A Milestone Update (and Other Ramblings)
by Linda Kaufman
99s Grow During Women in Aviation Week
by Victoria Neuville Zajkov
Flying with Amigo, Bonnie & Clyde
by Vikki Mena
Dorothy Rungeling
by Akky Mansikka and Dorothy Rungeling
NIFA Wants YOU!
by Carolyn Carpp
12
14
99 News
November/December 2013
6
10
16
14
17
19
5
10
12
Nicole Brill, who is deaf, prepares for an aerobatic flight in a
Decathlon.
Mercedes Eulitt was one of three 99s to participate in a 49-ship
formation flight for Breast Cancer Awareness.
Penny Nagy and Martha Phillips at the dedication
of a memorial marker for Opal Kunz, the acting
president of The 99s prior to Amelia Earhart’s
election.
20
22
99 News – November/December – 2013
5
President’s Page
BY MARTHA PHILLIPS, International President
I
t has been really gratifying to see
the increase in new and reinstated
memberships from EAA AirVen-
ture in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, this
summer and the AOPA Summit in
Ft. Worth, Texas, in October. Meeting new
members and hearing their stories is actu-
ally very exciting for me. Not only does it
bring back memories of my own training
and memorable flights, it makes me want
to get out and fly even more.
A great part of the increase in Associ-
ate membership, however, has been due
to the new Fly Now award program from
the Amelia Earhart Memorial Scholar-
ship Fund. The increase in the number
of awards available and the fact they are
given twice per year has really caught the
attention of potential women pilots from all
over. With 51 applicants for the first round
of awards, nine of whom received them, it
looks like the new program will be a big
success. We hope those not selected on
this round will try again next March. We
only wish we could award a scholarship to
each applicant.
The success of this program might
serve as inspiration to our Chapters and
Sections to create or step up their own
scholarship award(s) in their local areas.
We know that with the higher cost of train-
ing, fuel and airplane rentals, the need for
funds at every level is greater than ever. For
more information on creating scholarships,
you can refer to the Chapter Chairman’s
Manual, which can be printed out from the
Library section of the Members Only part
of The 99s website.
In September at the Fall Southwest
Section Meeting, a memorial marker was
dedicated at the gravesite of Opal Kunz in
Auburn, California. Opal was the acting
President of The 99s prior to holding actual
elections in 1931 when Amelia Earhart be-
came our first elected President. Opal was
involved in the 1929 Women’s Air Derby
and handled much of the organization for
the budding “club.” Her husband was a vice
president at Tiffany’s in New York, and Tif-
fany’s designed our interlocking 99s logo.
After discovering that Opal was buried
in an unmarked grave in Auburn, South-
west Section Governor Penny Nagy issued
a challenge to members at the Spring
Section Meeting to raise enough money
to properly memorialize Opal. Section
members and others more than met the
challenge. For more information on this
story of 99s honoring the memory of one
of our Charter members, go to http://www.
sws99s.org/pdf/SouthwesterlyJun2013.
pdf, which gives background on Opal
along with links to other information about
her. I guarantee you will enjoy them. To
read a follow-up article written by a local
newspaper, go to http://www.sws99s.org/
pdf/Southwesterly2013-09.pdf and check
out page 8.
It is hard to believe that the end of
another year is upon us. For many of our
members it also means a season of holi-
days. It is a time of year for giving thanks
for all we have and the people we love. We
should also be thanking all the members
of The Ninety-Nines who give so selflessly
to this organization. From those who form
and support our Chapters and Sections, to
the International officers, Board members,
Committee Chairmen and Trustees of our
museums and funds, our sincere thanks for
your time, talent and dedication that make
this such a wonderful organization.
Ninety-Nines and guests at the dedication
of the memorial marker for Opal Kunz in
Auburn, California.
99 News – November/December – 2013
6
The AEMSF Trustees were pleased to receive FIFTY-ONE
applications for the Fall 2013 Fly Now Award. It was difficult,
but necessary, to choose between so many outstanding candidates.
The next Fly Now Award winners will be announced in April,
2014. Applicants must be officially registered as Associate Mem-
bers of The Ninety-Nines, Inc. at the time of application. Deadline
for submission to Chapters is March 15, 2014.
The FLY NOW Award (formerly the New Pilot Award) is a
progressive award given to Associate Members of The Ninety-
Nines, Inc. who demonstrate a need for financial assistance to
become certificated pilots. The Amelia Earhart Memorial Schol-
arship Fund has decided to expand the scope of this award to
provide up to $3,000 toward completion of the Recreational Pilot,
Sport Pilot or Private Pilot certificate, or non-U.S. equivalent, in
any aircraft. This award will be given progressively to winners
after they complete each of the four milestones in their training.
MILESTONE: Passing the FAA or equivalent written knowl-
edge exam, if not completed at time of application: $500
MILESTONE: First Solo, if not completed at time of ap-
plication: $1,000
MILESTONE: Long solo cross-country, if not completed at
time of application: $1,000
MILESTONE: Receiving FAA or equivalent flight certificate:
$500.
KIERSTEN ELLIS, ORANGE COUNTY CHAPTER
SOUTHWEST SECTION, MENTOR – ANDREA RINEBOLD
I frequently had my “head in the clouds” growing up, but it
wasn’t until I flew through a sunset during my first plane ride that
I knew what I was meant to do. I began my aviation training out
of Orange Coast College in Orange County. I then transferred to
Mt. San Antonio College (Mt. Sac), a CTI certified school, where
I graduated in June 2013 with my A.S. in Commercial Flight and
A.S. in Aviation Science. I currently attend the satellite campus
at Mt. Sac for Southern Illinois University and am working to
complete my B.S. in Airport Operations and Management. I am
completing my flight training out of KSNA in a Cessna 150. I am
so grateful to The Ninety-Nines organization and all of the amaz-
ing women who have come into my life through this experience.
CHELSEA ANDREWS, SUTTER BUTTES CHAPTER
SOUTHWEST SECTION, MENTOR – CAROL ANDREWS
I’m 19 years old and currently attending Sierra College with a
major in engineering. I’ve been completely enamored with flying
ever since I was given the opportunity to fly through my Civil Air
Patrol Squadron. From then on, I’ve set my eyes on making flying
my career. Originally my goal was to be a pilot in the Air Force,
but I was medically disqualified. Although I was devastated, I
haven’t given up. I am currently pursuing my certificate, with 20
flying hours. I am very grateful to The 99s for this opportunity
they’ve given me.
Please join us in congratulating the recipients!
Nine Award Winners Are Ready to FLY NOW!
BY JACQUELINE BOYD, AEMSF Trustee
99 News – November/December – 2013
7
CAYLEE JOHANSON, CONNECTICUT CHAPTER
NEW ENGLAND SECTION, MENTOR – REBECCA GREEN
I was inspired to fly by my father who flies helicopters, and
I’ve had the dream to be a pilot since elementary school. After
starting lessons in 2011, I took a year-long hiatus from flying and
resumed lessons late this summer, planning to complete my pri-
vate pilot training by the end of the year. I am currently a second
year graduate student at the University of Hartford studying for
a dual master’s degree in mechanical engineering and business
administration and working on a research grant sponsored by the
U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission. I cannot say thank you
enough to my fellow 99s who have encouraged me through my
training and inspire me towards the future. I am extremely excited
to have this opportunity provided by The Ninety-Nines and am
very grateful to be chosen as a recipient.
KRISTINA KOCH, MONTANA CHAPTER
NORTHWEST SECTION, MENTOR – JANINE NUNES
I live in Helena, Montana, where my family and I operate a
landscape business. My aviation journey began while homeschool-
ing my sons, who both expressed interest in aviation. My husband
and elder son completed private pilot training, and my younger son
and I are student pilots. I’ve completed ground school, passed the
FAA written exam scoring 100%, soloed a Piper Cherokee 140 and
have 63.3 flight hours. I initially began my flight training simply
to be prepared for an emergency and be a more knowledgeable
co-pilot. After dedicated study, inspiration and encouragement
from 99s, and many exciting and fulfilling flying experiences,
becoming a pilot and pursuing a flight career is a goal I intend to
pursue with passion and perseverance.
AIMEE LANGSTON, MT. SHASTA CHAPTER SOUTHWEST
SECTION, MENTOR – SUSAN KERR
When I was two years old, our family was air evacuated from
our missionary outpost in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Upon our return to the United States five years later, my grandfa-
ther took me on a Young Eagles flight in his RV-6A. Inevitably, I
was bitten by the flying bug. Since our evacuation from the Congo,
I have felt pulled back to the mission field, specifically medical
missions in East Africa. Having my pilot certificate would allow
me to serve even isolated communities, providing them greater
access to medical care. I am grateful for the support of the Mount
Shasta 99s and the AEMSF Trustees for the generous scholarship!
99 News – November/December – 2013
8
DIANA LESUEUR, PHOENIX CHAPTER
SOUTHWEST SECTION, MENTOR – GINGER ROWLEY
I have enjoyed teaching science to Mesa, Arizona students for
24 years. Eleven years ago my passion for science was redirected
when I was selected as instructor for a unique (STEM) program. I
work with 5th grade students throughout the Mesa Public School
District, covering scientific principles using the theme of aviation.
I am also the director of a summer aviation program for middle
school students. I am very excited to be so close to earning my
pilot certificate. I passed my written test in June, soloed in July,
XC solo in September. Next — checkride!
AMY URBINE, EASTERN PENNSYLVANIA CHAPTER
MID-ATLANTIC SECTION, MENTOR – MARY WUNDER
I am so grateful to The Ninety-Nines for the Fly Now Scholar-
ship that will enable me to complete my private pilot certificate.
I got the flying bug after a thrilling formation ride with Team
Aerodynamix in 2011. I started training in 2012, unsure of just
what I would do with a pilot certificate. After flying cross-country
to Montana, I realized I would really love to do scenic, guided
tours and aerial photography. Of course, I also plan on getting my
aerobatic rating as well just for fun. My passion has been ignited
for a life of learning to fly.
VICTORIA WILLIAMS, KENTUCKY BLUEGRASS CHAPTER
NORTH CENTRAL SECTION, MENTOR – TERRI DONNER
I am a 17-year-old student pilot living in a small town in
Kentucky. My interest in aviation began when I was little and soon
blossomed into a passion and dream. None of my family members
or our friends were involved with aviation, so I was fortunate to
find the Institute for Aerospace Education, a unique high school
aviation program. Almost two years ago I discovered The Ninety-
Nines, and they have been a true blessing in my life. They have
encouraged me, supported me and now, through being rewarded
this scholarship, helped me to finish my first big step into a career
doing what I love. Thank you for giving my dreams wings!
ANDREA YORK, SAN FERNANDO VALLEY
SOUTHWEST SECTION, MENTOR – CECELIA STRATFORD
I am very grateful to receive the Fly Now Award through The
99s. I am currently at 45 hours of flying and am so happy to start
flying again and obtain my private pilot certificate. I have overcome
many obstacles in my life, including a chronic illness, and never
stopped fighting for what I wanted to accomplish. I am excited
about the opportunity to meet other women involved in aviation
who are equally as passionate as I am to become a pilot. I have
almost completed my private pilot certificate and have been flying
since April. My instructor says I am a natural in the sky, and this is
also how I feel. With this award I feel that my dream will continue.
99 News – November/December – 2013
9
BY DONNA MILLER
International Careers Committee
Pilot Careers:
Failure
Far better is it to dare mighty things,
to win glorious triumphs, even though
checkered by failure… than to rank with
those poor spirits who neither enjoy
nor suffer much, because they live in a
gray twilight that knows not victory nor
defeat. – Theodore Roosevelt
A
s we have been hearing for years,
decades really, the pilot shortage
is coming. And, finally, I believe it
to be true: the U.S. will need pilots. As it
comes, there will be movement all across
the industry. Many flight instructors will
move toward freight jobs, freight pilots
often move toward corporate or regional
carriers, regional carrier pilots may inter-
view with the majors. And so too, comes
the interview.
I remember long ago attending a panel
discussion of airline pilots. I wanted to
know how to get from here (a multiengine
commercial rating and about 400 hours)
to there (a career at a major carrier where
someday I could fly the big iron interna-
tionally). The women on the panel gave
their own stories of how they obtained
the requisite flight experience to be fly-
ing an airliner. I zoned out immediately
when I heard, “My husband had a Mooney
that I learned to fly…” or “My dad had
an airplane so I was flying before I was
walking…”
I had no husband to provide me that
pathway into flight experience nor a father
with an airplane. I must say, I envied their
good fortune but knew that my career path
wouldn’t be the same. Then I heard the
story of how a woman went from flight
instructing to flying freight that led to a job
at a regional carrier, and she finally arrived
at her goal at a major carrier. I paid close
attention because she had done it on her
own and had succeeded.
What no one on the panel discussed
was the interview that didn’t go well or the
checkride that she didn’t pass. As pilots,
we are demanding of ourselves in ways
other professions aren’t. I asked one of
the women on the panel afterwards if she
had any significant struggles along the
way. “Oh, YES!” she exclaimed. “I failed
three interviews before I decided to pay for
interview prep. I had no idea what I was
doing wrong!”
I was disappointed that she hadn’t
talked about it during the panel discussion.
In a way, I felt deceived. No one wants to
get on stage and say that she failed. But by
not talking about it, I felt new pilots like
me could get a false sense of how chal-
lenging reaching her aviation goal can be.
I know amazing pilots who didn’t pass an
interview. I couldn’t imagine how it could
have happened. But I wasn’t there.
So what can we learn from each expe-
rience? What can failure teach us? Can we
make it a stepping stone to future success?
As Confucius wisely said, “Our greatest
glory is not in never falling, but in rising
every time we fall.”
TRAINING MILESTONES
Sue Ballew – Gold Seal Flight
Instructor
Santa Clara Valley Chapter
Nancy Bradshaw – Private
Antelope Valley Chapter
Lindsey Bass – Solo
Florida Spaceport Chapter
Jennifer Bauman – Private
Ventura County Chapter
Terry Carbonell – Multiengine
Instrument/Commercial
Paradise Coast Chapter
Kathleen Chmelir – Solo
Ventura County Chapter
Ashley Collins – Private
Karen Johnson Solo Scholarship
Oregon Pines Chapter
Stephanie Derk – Private
Central Pennsylvania Chapter
Lisa Hotung – Private
Western New York Chapter
Michelle Hughes – Private
Antelope Valley Chaper
Linda Kaufman – Instrument
Florida Suncoast Chapter
Mona Kendrick – Commercial
Monterey Bay Chapter
Jeanne LaFountain – Private
Paradise Coast Chapter
Kate Pavlock – Private
Antelope Valley Chapter
Kandace Rawling – CFII
Wisconsin Chapter
Casey Salinas – Solo
Ventura County Chapter
Kelsie Smith – Commercial
Scioto Valley Chapter
99 News – November/December – 2013
10
BY MERCEDES EULITT
Antelope Valley Chapter
World Record Attempt Over NFL Game
Salutes Breast Cancer Awareness
To ensure lateral separation is maintained with adequate step down for safe formation flight, easily recognizable visual references, termed
“sightlines,” on the lead aircraft are established to accurately triangulate position. In this photo, Mercedes looks down the line at her 3 o’clock
position, then looks forward to confirm she’s behind and lower than the lead. She then checks her 2 o’clock position and repeats the process.
Mercedes’ color-coded briefing sheet of the
formation. She is number 4 (Cougar) in the E
formation.
49 Planes
W
hat did I do the second weekend in October? I went to a football
game…with a difference!
It was an honor to be one of the pilots in a record 49-ship all RV formation
flight for Breast Cancer Awareness, as were two other 99s, Stephanie Wells
and her co-pilot Gretchen Jahn. We are awaiting confirmation from Guinness
as to whether this is a world record. For us, it definitely was.
The flight was during the “Star Spangled Banner” for the opening of
the NFL game of the Kansas City Chiefs against the Oakland Raiders on
October 13.
When I was asked if I would consider being part of this, I had no hesita-
tion in giving a positive response. The RV Kansas City formation flight team
was overwhelmed with the same reaction from RV pilots all over the country.
Even though the fuel bill was going to be in the $1,000 range for my plane
alone, my fiancé Sean Farrell and I both made the trip in our own planes.
I felt prepared for this because I had passed my formation checkride
last year after two years of training. Imagine doing a commercial checkride
next to four other airplanes.
I took off the Thursday before the flyover with Sean as a flight of two.
As we flew across the country, we picked up other RV pilots along the way,
some over a VOR at 9,500 feet and others at fuel stops.
99 News – November/December – 2013
11
This photo was taken inside the formation from the plane flown by Stephanie
“Cyclone” Wells, plane 3 in the I formation. The picture was taken by her co-
pilot Gretchen Jahn.
The aircraft line up on October 13 at Lee’s Summit airport
for their formation flight over the NFL game pitting the
Kansas City Chiefs against the Oakland Raiders. The event
was in support of breast cancer awareness.
To the sound of cheering, we flew into Lee’s Summit Airport in Kansas
City, Missouri, on Friday and taxied into a hangar to get the custom-made
smoke brackets installed. Volunteers fixed hamburgers while our wingtips
were modified.
Early Saturday morning we had a long briefing – you could hear a pin
drop. Two practice flights followed. After a dinner, again prepared by volun-
teers, we reviewed the videos and photos taken that day to make adjustments
for the TV cameras the next day. Then, for the next few hours it was flying
stories and laughter.
Early Sunday morning we prepped the planes and had our last detailed
brief. Afterwards, walking to my plane, I thought about about each part of
the flight and what I had to do precisely.
Once we were all in our planes, the signal was given to start engines.
Everyone started at once, and the ramp was alive with sound. We all checked
in on the radio in the designated order from Alpha 1, 2, 3, 4 to Bravo 1, 2, 3,
4 down to Mike 1. We all taxied, did our run-ups and then gave thumbs up
all down the line from M1 to Alpha 1.
Taking off in 2 by 2s, each set of twos then formed a four-ship. Then all
12 sets of four-ships joined together, first Bravo to Alpha, then Charlie and
then Delta, until we were all in our positions. Because we all trained to the
same standard, we could be confident that the other pilots would be flying
where they should be.
Once we were all formed up, a spotter airplane was there to coach us
and also to provide any needed support. Then I heard Alpha 1 say we were
starting the run in.
I took deep breaths. Since I was in the back, it was bumpy from all the
planes in front of me. I needed to relax because the plane flies level just fine,
and it didn’t need any over-controlling inputs or pilot-induced oscillations.
First I looked at the planes in front, then looked up a diagonal, then to
my right, then back in front and continued my scan. I made small inputs to
keep me in position. I was lucky that, as I looked diagonal, I had a view of
the stadium coming in sight.
Alpha 1 called, “Smoke on,” and I saw my lead’s
smoke off his wingtips. I was right behind him between
his smoke trails. Then I saw the fireworks from the
stadium. It was quiet in my plane, but I could feel all
the other pilots smiling with pride, just as I was.
Once the pink smoke burned out, I could feel all
the pilots exhale. I wanted to cheer when Alpha 1 said
we had hit the timing perfectly for the “Star-Spangled
Banner.”
Then Alpha 1 started detaching the large flight,
and we headed back to the airport in our flights of four.
As we landed, there were people lined up cheering.
We were loaded onto the bus, giving hugs to everyone.
Cell phones were buzzing with pictures, videos and
text messages.
Once we arrived at the stadium, we were escorted
to the field and introduced during a commercial break.
Then off we went to the skybox to relax and watch the
third and fourth quarters.
It is one of those life events that I will always re-
member: first, in memory of friends who have passed
from breast cancer; second, knowing we raised money
that will continue breast cancer research; and last, the
camaraderie of my fellow formation pilots who are
always encouraging me to be the best pilot I can be
and to have fun doing it.
99 News – November/December – 2013
12
I
was born with hearing but became
deaf when I was about a year old.
I’m not completely deaf, though, and
I speak well. I was raised in a hear-
ing world by my Swiss-born mother and
American father, who strongly believed I
could do anything. I had a younger hear-
ing brother who was my soulmate, and he
helped me a lot when we were growing up.
My father was in the Navy for a short
time and later met my mother, who was a
flight attendant. My first flight was with
my uncle in a Piper Cherokee in Ohio. He
let me fly the right seat, and I got a kick
out of banking the plane left and right so I
could see below. I was grinning from ear
to ear when we landed. I was 10 years old.
In Colorado, I had a dream while I was a
senior in high school that seemed so vivid.
I was running down a field full of yellow,
white, and purple flowers, and I lifted my
arms. Powered by the thought, I soared
above and flew up and down the valley
and around the snow-capped mountains.
I was 17 when I graduated from Aspen
High School and moved to Alaska to attend
the University of Fairbanks Alaska (UAF).
I spent the next several years fishing, hik-
ing, rock climbing, ice climbing, skiing,
mountaineering, river rafting, backpacking
and flying in Alaska.
After I graduated from UAF, I moved
down to Reno, Nevada, in 2000 to attend
the University of Nevada Reno (UNR) and
earned my Master’s in Biological Sciences.
My formal flight training that began
in Alaska continued in Reno, where I co-
founded the Aerobatic Company and Flight
School, Inc. in 2001. In 2006, I took a
week’s vacation in Santa Paula, California,
with CP Aviation. I soloed in 19.5 hours
in a Cessna 172 with the help of our fam-
ily friend and my flight instructor, Rich
Stowell. It was an honor to have Rich as
my flight instructor, a Master Certificated
Aerobatic Flight Instructor, because it
boosted my confidence in flying unusual
attitudes. I returned to Reno and finished
my flying in a Cessna 150 “Texas Taildrag-
ger,” which I loved.
Flying without the use of radios does
have some challenges. I did most of my
training at Reno-Stead Airport, and many
pilots there were aware of a deaf pilot
around. While training in the Texas Tail-
dragger, I had no problem hearing the chat-
ter on the radio. Using the right frequency
Who Needs To Hear When You’ve Got Wings?
BY NICOLE BRILL, Reno High Sierra Chapter
I am a deaf pilot. When
people asked how I could y,
a friend used to tell them,
“Shhh, don’t tell the airplane.”
Being deaf has not slowed Nicole Brill down in the skies. A private pilot, she’s now working on aerobatic training and looks forward to the
technology that will allow her to fly IFR on her own.
99 News – November/December – 2013
13
tuned to the KRTS, I can tell if there are
other aircraft in the pattern or in the area.
Sometimes a silent radio means there’s
no one out there, but that’s not always
the case. Whenever I make a departure,
I announce my position on the radio and
wait a moment to see if there’s a chatter.
Sometimes I make a 360-degree turn on
the tarmac for better visibility.
As for the weather, the weather is
always changing and I’m always prepared
for the worst or I never allow myself get
caught in a situation that I can’t get out
of. I rely on AWOS by calling through a
relay service to get the most recent weather
information from the nearest airport.
Some airports don’t have one. There are
many ways to look at the weather, such as
looking at predicting forecasts, looking at
clouds, watching the trees or wind sock,
or following other aircraft in the pattern.
For a long time, a deaf pilot could not
get an instrument rating, but that restriction
was lifted in 2006, as long as the deaf pilot
has a qualified co-pilot in the right seat who
can operate the radio. The co-pilot listens
and responds on the radio and transmits
information to me either in writing or
verbally. I respond back either to the co-
pilot or on the radio myself as the PIC. As
soon as the FAA implements the datalink
technology at the General Aviation level, I
will be able to fly IFR on my own.
Another skill I’m working on is aero-
batics. As a private pilot student in 2006,
I was taught by three aerobatic instructors,
Rich Stowell, Patrick Dugan and Matthew
Brill. They gave me a lot of confidence in
flying. Flying in unusual attitudes helps me
understand the aerodynamics of the plane.
If you stall the plane, you lose the control,
and oftentimes pilots make the mistake of
trying to maintain the altitude by pulling
the stick back. The trick is to “push” either
the stick, or the throttle to add power, and
watch your airspeed indicator. I love to fly
unusual attitude.
People have always asked me if I had
an interesting or close call experience.
As the mother of two boys, I never take
chances in aerobatics without a safety
pilot. But I did have one incident that was
enough to be reported to the FAA. Last
April, I needed a flight review and wanted
to get back in the air doing aerobatics. So
I contacted Tim Brill, my former husband
and a Master Certificated Flight Instructor-
Aerobatics. We spent two days working on
my slow rolls, loops and three-turn spins.
On the third day, we decided to polish up
my landings.
After one good three-point landing in
a Super Decathlon, we went for a second
round. Something wasn’t quite right with
the rudder. I felt a bit of a resistance for a
moment. During the third landing, I asked
Tim in frustration, “Why are you holding
the rudder?” He denied taking any control
as he was sitting behind me in a tandem
seat. During the fourth landing, I almost
went off the runway and had to quickly
add power to get back in the air. It turned
out there was a mechanical failure in the
rear rudder pedal linkage (in other words
his rudder was completely stuck). It took
a few stressful minutes to identify and fix
the problem. Had we done aerobatics that
day, it could have been disastrous because
you can’t get out of a spin without using
the rudder.
As an adventurous gal who’s always
looking for an adrenaline fix, my whole life
has always involved going on international
trips, meeting people in faraway places,
climbing or rappelling, skiing fast, going
sky diving or paragliding, or going solo in
grizzly country. Flying aerobatics is my
most favorite thing to do. My next goal
after achieving instrument rating is to com-
pete in the International Aerobatics Club
in the primary and sportsman category. It’s
only a matter of time before I get there.
Currently, I’m still flying with the
Aerobatic Company and Flight School,
Inc. in Reno, Nevada. I’m a member of
the Reno High Sierra Chapter and enjoy
volunteering for the Reno Air Races every
year. My teenage boys are now 13 and 16
years old. My youngest, Cody, occasion-
ally joins me on cross country flights for a
breakfast or lunch at different airports. The
oldest, Alex, is training for his first solo in
an 8KCAB Super Decathlon. They both
share the same passion for flying as their
mom and dad.
Nicole Brill lives in Reno and works
in South Lake Tahoe as a hydrologist with
the U.S. Forest Service. She’s also retired
from the U.S. Deaf Ski Team (2007 Salt
Lake City and 2011 Slovakia).
For a long time, a deaf pilot
could not get an instrument
rating, but that restriction was
lifted in 2006, as long as the
deaf pilot has a qualied
co-pilot in the right seat who
can operate the radio.
Above, Nicole and her son Cody fly to
Quincy, California, for breakfast.
Below left, Nicole with her service dog Nile.
99 News – November/December – 2013
14
A
wonderful day flying turned scary in a matter of about a
minute. My flying buddy Ralph and I flew a Grumman
American 1C to Hemet, California, on September 9, ar-
riving about 11:30 a.m. Hemet-Ryan is a non-towered airport. We
had reported at 10 miles out for traffic in the area also planning to
land Hemet. Then at eight miles, we reported again over Diamond
Lake and again entering a 45 for left downwind, landing 23 Hemet.
It was a beautiful flight, but as we entered the downwind,
white smoke started billowing out of the engine compartment,
instrument panel, glare shield and into the cockpit. We quickly
turned off the cabin vent and opened the canopy partway to let
the smoke clear so we could breathe.
“Fly the conditions,” he said in response to my
comment that it was bumpy. We were descending into
Gillespie Field, me at the controls of the Citabria, he
behind me. He’d said it before, would say it again,
as he taught me to fly. It’s a basic axiom for every
pilot, necessary while guiding an aircraft in flight
or on the ground.
I realized recently that those three words have
been absorbed into my consciousness. These days
when I encounter something unexpected, I hear in
my brain, “fly the conditions” and realize that it’s
my opportunity to assess the situation and respond
appropriately.
Many times, the conditions we find ourselves in
aren’t changeable, but the way we manage them is.
In the case of learning to fly, we are taught what to
do, but every situation is different from every other.
We practice in order to have a range of experiences
in which we’ve acted correctly for the conditions
we were in.
Whether flying or just living our lives, we must
fly the conditions: Take what we know, adapt it for
the situation, and do our best to get through it safely
and well.
A good landing is one
you can walk away from.
BY MARY FORD
San Diego Chapter
Fly the Conditions
It Was a Good
Landing
Life Lessons
From Flying
BY CONNIE CHARLES
San Diego Chapter
Connie with her instructor, Dave Derby, after her solo.
Emergency personnel respond to Mary’s crash landing at Hemet-Ryan
Airport.
99 News – November/December – 2013
15
Once the smoke started, we called
for an emergency landing, saying we
had smoke in the cockpit and no power
to the engine.
All was good, as we thought we had
the runway made until we turned base
and to short final only to see a huge gray
helicopter there on the runway about a
quarter of the way from threshold of 23.
It was just sitting there crosswise be-
tween the stripes on the runway, blades
running but not moving away.
There was nowhere to go! We were
too steep to try for the taxiway and feared
flipping over if we hit the grass.
Everything was happening so fast.
We needed to land where the helicopter
was resting! We did an S turn to slow
down to give the helicopter time to
get out of the way, but we were losing
altitude fast. Still, the helicopter didn’t
move. We made one last turn.
Losing the last bit of altitude, the
plane dropped as we turned back, and
the left wing caught on the runway, caus-
ing the plane to spin around, slamming
us into the runway. The gear hit hard,
collapsing and throwing us sideways
violently. The prop caught as we spun
around, sending us off the north side of
the runway and bringing the plane to an
abrupt stop in the dirt, facing 180 degrees
to the intended runway direction.
Without a word, we quickly pushed
back the canopy, pitched off our headsets
and bailed from the plane, leaving every-
thing behind, fearing an explosion or fire.
My back and collarbone hurt so
badly. I crouch-walked to about 25 feet
from the plane and collapsed on my back
in the hot, dry weeds next to the runway.
I looked back to see my buddy get out of
the plane and do the same.
Within no time, a half dozen or
so firefighters arrived with equipment,
asked questions and put neck braces on
us while we all waited for the ambulance.
The helicopter left and did not return.
Ralph and I were both discharged
after an exhausting emergency room
visit. Later, doctors discovered we both
had vertebral compression fractures.
My flight instructor used to tell me
that, in an emergency, fly the plane all the
way to the crash site. Never give up. And
to remember, “A good landing is one you
can walk away from. A great landing is
one where you can use the plane again.”
Update: After five weeks of rest, both
pilots were recovering nicely.
There was
nowhere to go!
We were too
steep to try for
the taxiway and
feared flipping
over if we hit
the grass.
Mary Ford.
Mary and Ralph turn base with the
helicopter visible sitting on the runway,
while smoke fills the Grumman’s cockpit.
99 News – November/December – 2013
16
R
ecently, I came across a notebook I made notes in after
each flight. In one of the very first entries I wrote, “First
time in left seat. Felt like I was going to throw up.”
Looking back, it makes me laugh. It also lets me reflect on
how far I’ve come since then. I’m sure many of you have heard
me say this before: I never thought I’d take flight lessons. I never
thought I’d solo. Never thought I’d do my solo cross-countries.
I never thought I’d earn my private pilot certificate.
The student pilot who wrote about taking the left seat for the
first time wouldn’t have believed this, but… on June 13, 2013,
I passed my instrument checkride! (Okay yes, I am learning to
never say never!) Being surrounded by pilots with more ratings
and many more hours than I, it is easy to stay humble as it is
clear I have a lifetime of these “I’ll nevers” to knock out.
The instrument rating is just a start, but even getting this far
seems a bit crazy to me considering where I started a relatively
short time ago. I wouldn’t have come this far without the en-
couragement and support I received every step of the way. I’ve
said this before too – there were moments when I did not know
if I could keep going. But my instructors knew. And my friends
in The 99s knew. So I want to take this opportunity to say thank
A Milestone Update
(and Other Ramblings)
BY LINDA KAUFMAN
Florida Suncoast Chapter
you to every one of you who kept telling me, “You can do it.”
That’s what this organization is all about, isn’t it? We’ve all
been there and understand the ups and downs (pun intended) of
flight training. We all share a bond of knowing exactly what it is
to push the throttle full forward for the first time when you are
all alone. Or what it is to shoot your first approach to minimums
in actual IMC and to break out and to find the runway lights
straight ahead of you. And I bet I’m not the only one who has
driven home from a lesson or two with blurry eyes, beating
myself up when my best was not good enough.
This unique understanding and support from The 99s is
wonderful, and it is a part of what keeps me going forward. It
is something I am eager to “pay forward” to new pilots who are
just starting out and who will undoubtedly face similar struggles
and the immeasurable pleasures of aviation.
Linda Kaufman, who passed her instrument checkride this
summer, reflects on what it took to get there.
P
alomar Chapter Ninety-Nine Syd
Blue, author and chief pilot at an
aerial surveillance company, has
brought two of her biggest passions, flying
and writing, together to create FlyGirl – a
novel meant to inspire young women to
learn to fly and chase their dreams.
Jill Townsend, also known as FlyGirl,
is the main character in the novel. She is a
normal teenage girl who is facing the same
issues as any other teen out there, which
makes her a very relatable character for
this age group. All teenage girls can relate
to wanting freedom from their parents as
Jill does, and wanting to impress the hottest
boy in school as Jill so wants to do with
Robbie Magnor.
Book Review FlyGirl by Syd Blue
Jill’s impatience, which leads to impul-
sive decisions that could ruin everything,
is also a quality that teenagers know all
too well. Syd has been very successful in
communicating, through Jill, that obstacles
in life are possible to get through.
Becoming a pilot is not easy, which
keeps many young girls from thinking they
can fly. “I wanted to show teens that pilots
face many obstacles, but they overcome
them,” says Syd. “That was kind of a new
concept for them. FlyGirl definitely has a
lot of obstacles to overcome. But through
that she is able to become more determined
and focused, and more on board to make
her dreams come true.”
For more details, visit sydblue.com.
BY MICHELLE WALTHALL, Guest Author
99 News – November/December – 2013
17
The most effective way to do it,
is to do it. — Amelia Earhart
A
melia Earhart caught our imagina-
tion and helped spark our ambition
and daring as we took the path to
becoming pilots and future members of
the organization she started. Although she
will forever be an inspiring woman written
about in history, what future women pilots
need most is a female role model with
whom they can interact today. They need
a Ninety-Nine.
The annual Women of Aviation World-
wide Week (WOAW Week), March 3-9 in
2014, is the perfect opportunity to reach
out to women in the shadows, those who
are not quite sure if aviation is for them or
who don’t know how to get started.
WOAW Week events taking place
during just one week have welcomed over
40,000 girls and women into aviation facili-
ties around the world over the years. Many
individual Ninety-Nines and Chapters re-
sponded to the challenge and contributed
significantly to make this female aviation
outreach initiative the largest ever created.
If there’s one thing I’ve learned as a
Ninety-Nine, it’s that we are driven to share
our passion; nothing excites us more than
to share our advice and wisdom with others
to spark their interest in aviation.
In fact, I know that their many tireless
efforts played a vital role in the success of
Frederick, Maryland, events since 2010.
The Frederick Municipal Airport has seen
over 750 girls and women take their first
flight during WOAW Week, and I was in
awe of how a small Chapter can make an
impact on so many people.
A popular question from participants
following WOAW Week is, “This was
amazing; I want to learn to fly! How can I
continue to get support from here?” When-
ever The Ninety-Nines are involved in an
event, the answer is personal and simple:
“Come and join us. We are here to support
you.”
The organization behind Women Of
99s Grow During WOAW Week
BY VICTORIA NEUVILLE ZAJKO
Sugarloaf Chapter
A young passenger enjoys a flight during
the Women of Aviation Worldwide Week in
Yellowknife, NT, Canada.
Angelica is all smiles after her Women of Aviation Worldwide Week flight in Titusville, Florida.
Aviation Worldwide Week, the Institute for
Women Of Aviation Worldwide (iWOAW),
encourages and supports everyone who
wants to make a difference and grow the
female pilot population.
No membership or fee is required to
participate, but there are many prizes for all
participants to win. In addition, after you re-
quest your organizer kit, a dedicated group
of volunteer team leaders (including me) is
ready to assist you if you are planning an
event. And while events are fun, they’re not
the only way to participate — everyone is
invited to take a girl or a woman on their
first flight to celebrate.
All that is needed is a decision. “Yes, I
want to make a difference!” Then, visit the
website and click on “Participate” to view
the many ways you and/or your Chapter can
get involved. Your participation will help
you to not only grow your Ninety-Nines
Chapter but for you to grow as a mentor,
as a pilot, as a woman.
Visit WomenOfAviationWeek.org to
get started!
99 News – November/December – 2013
18
Welcome New and Returning Ninety-Nines!
Margaret Cleveland, Oregon
Pines Chapter
Welcome Back Members
Welcome New Members
ALLENSTEIN, Sigrid, New Orleans
ALLINA, Karen, Three Rivers
ANDERSON, Janet, Montana
APPLEGATE, Emily Jo, Colorado
BAVIS, Kathleen, Ventura County
BUCKELEW, Aleta, Ventura County
CARNIE, Christine, Embry-Riddle Daytona
CATTO, Sara, San Luis Obispo County
CHAN, Alice, British Columbia Coast
CINCO, Blanca (F), Santa Clara Valley
DRAGMAN-RENZ, Louise, San Diego
FANTO, Alice, New Orleans
GARDY, Michelle, El Paso
GOLLEHER, Emily, Bakersfield
GOOD, Doris (F), New Orleans
HASEGAWA THOMAS, Yuko, Far East Section
HIGGINS, Grace, Reno Area
HODGES, Caroline, Alabama
HUKILL, Lorraine, Placer Gold
JUEDEMAN, Corry, San Antonio
KHAMASH, Hadeel, Arabian Section
KIRSCHER, Maggie, Intermountain
LEVINE, Carol, Fort Worth
LORDEMANN, Nicole, Greater Kansas City
MCPHEDRAN, Betty-Ann, Manitoba
NORTHRUP, Sharon, High Country
PECOTTE, Linda, El Paso
PIERCE, Peggy, Florida Suncoast
PINCIOTTI, Margaret, Eastern Pennsylvania
PURCELL, Kim, Alameda County
RASHIDIAN, Sherry, Kentucky Bluegrass
RUTLAND, Sara, Alabama
SALCEDO, Betty Lou, Southwest Section
SANDERS, Elizabeth (F), Mid-Columbia
SMITH, Jody, Florida Goldcoast
SONTAG, Paulette (F), San Antonio
SUNKAVALLI, Satya (F), Indiana
TORGRIMSON, Randi Jo, British Columbia Coast
VAN FLEET, Susan, Kitty Hawk
WALLACE, Jean, Arkansas
ZEDECK, Tracy, Bay Cities
AL DOSERI, Waad Salem, Arabian Section
ALBRECHT, Samantha (F), Oklahoma
AL-HAMADAH, Nassreen (F), Arabian Section
ALVAREZ, Jacqueline, First Canadian
ANDREWS, Judy, Dallas
ANSARI, Sofia, British Columbia Coast
BADIS, Darnella (F), Aloha
BADOWSKI, Natasha (F), First Canadian
BALDWIN-WORTMAN, Laura, Connecticut
BANDY, Leslianne (F), San Diego
BAXTER-CARPENTER, Amy, Georgia
BELL, Susan (F), Placer Gold
BIELKA, Chandel, Greater Seattle
BRECKENRIDGE, Cristal, Tip of Texas
BRINKER, Kelly (F), Chicago Area
BRUSCO, Diane (F), Colorado
CARLIN, Chelsea, Kansas
CASTRO, Blandy, San Diego
CHASE, Jenna (F), San Joaquin Valley
CHICK DRUM, Laura (F), Minnesota
CLEVELAND, Margaret (F), Oregon Pines
COLEMAN, Victoria (F), Sedona Red Rockettes
CONNELLY, Kelsey, Oklahoma
CONNORS, Caitlin (F), New York Capital District
CUEVAS, Theresa, Long Island
D’ANTON, Nicole (F), North Jersey
DAVIES, Daily, Colorado
DIETERT, Laura (F), Pikes Peak
DIXON, Sequoia (F), Utah
DUECK, Becky, Manitoba
DUFEK, Jennifer, Florida Goldcoast
ELIAS, Michele, Santa Barbara
ERICKSON, Alia (F), Yavapai
FARJIAN, Alice, Arabian Section
FELDMON, Jill (F), Chicago Area
FEREK, Cindy (F), Hampton Roads
FEY, Jennifer (F), Santa Clara Valley
FINK, Kelsey, Oklahoma
FORSTER, Jennifer, Manitoba
FROST, Jennifer (F), Sutter Buttes
FUNK, Karen (F), Colorado
FUSANO, Lisa (F), San Fernando Valley
GAGNON, Nicole, Eastern New England
GALLMAN, Kristi, Carolinas
GERBER, Susan, Arabian Section
GLIBA, Loana (F), Colorado
GUERRIERI, Maredith, Florida Spaceport
HABIB, Enessa (F), First Canadian
HAMMACK, Ilene, Tulsa
HARRIS, Mary, Dallas
HATTON, Judie (F), Austin
HERMANS, Arden (F), New Zealand Section
HJELLE, Karen (F), Wisconsin
ILICH, Cassandra (F), Colorado
JACKSON, Wanda (F), Kitty Hawk
JAIME, Lupita (F), Monterey Bay
JENISON, Jessica, Texas Dogwood
JONSSON, Joanna, British Section
KENYON, Stephanie (F), Washington DC
KLIER, Natalie (F), Santa Rosa
KNOX, Janeanne (F), Reno High Sierra
KUTZLER, Lynne (F), San Diego
LANGSTON, Aimee (F), Mt. Shasta
LAROCQUE, Kelly (F), Orange County
LEVIN, Jodi (F), Chicago Area
LEWIS, Jean, Paradise Coast
LOPEZ, Jessica (F), Alabama
LOVELESS, Mikaylah (F), Fort Worth
LOVNESS, Tracy, Minnesota
LOWERY, Jessica, Shreveport
MARSHALL, Karla (F), New Orleans
MASHY, Tiki, Ambassador
MATHIS, Lisa (F), Santa Clara Valley
MCKENNAN, Sarah, Utah
MCKEON, Tressie, Dallas
MEARSCH, Madeline (F), Orange County
MEUNIER, Leigh (F), Eastern New England
MILLS, Maureen, Maryland
MOORE, Heidi, Fort Worth
MORRIS, Debbie, Georgia
MUBARAK, Anwaar, Arabian Section
MUKHERJEE, Prajnashmi, India Section
MURRAY, Margaret, San Diego
NAJOK, Mayssa (F), North Jersey
NICE, Jacquelyn (F), Mount Tahoma
NIEDERMEIER, Ulrike, Arabian Section
NIEMCZYK, Mary, Phoenix
NOORIAN, Afsha (F), First Canadian
NORDSTROM, Nina, San Diego
OCAMPO, Yeni (F), Delaware
OKAZAKI, Natsuki, Yavapai
PALMER, Victoria (F), San Luis Obispo County
PARIS-HUDSON, Antoinette, Kansas
PETERS-LUSTER, Christina (F), Florida Goldcoast
PETERSON, Amy (F), Redwood Coast Flyers
PICKARD, Brittany (F), Monterey Bay
PORTER, Elizabeth (F), Carolinas
PRENDERGAST, Sarah (F), Eastern New England
RAMSAY, Carolyn (F), British Columbia Coast
REGNIER, Rachelle, Manitoba
REYNOLDS, Brandi (F), Blue Ridge
RICHARDSON, Tricia (F), Connecticut
RIECK, Jeanne, Phoenix
ROBARE, Whitney (F), San Diego
ROBINSON, Elke, British Columbia Coast
ROODENBURG, Austin (F), Redwood Coast Flyers
SABLAN, Esther, Santa Clara Valley
SALLEY, Emily (F), Colorado
SALZMAN, Denise, Tucson
SAMUELS, Tara (F), Santa Clara Valley
SAUDER, Diana (F), Tulsa
SCHMIDT, Natasha, Reno High Sierra
SCHROEDER, Phoebe (F), Women With Wings
SCHROEDER, Tina, Austrian Section
SELMAN, Marissa, Manitoba
SHANKLAND, Amanda (F), Sedona Red Rockettes
SLOAN, Chelsie (F), Alabama
SOOBY, Ann, Kansas
STAMPER, Karen (F), Oklahoma
STUART, Kate (F), Santa Barbara
SULLIVAN, Emma (F), Santa Barbara
TALBOTT, Sarah (F), West Virginia
TAYLOR, Jayne, Eastern Pennsylvania
TAYLOR, Lauren, Tennessee
TRUJILLO, Veronica (F), San Gabriel Valley
TSIM, Stephanie (F), Embry-Riddle Daytona
TWIDDY, Jessica, New Orleans
UKENS, Randi, Oklahoma
URIAS, Nina (F), Tip of Texas
VAREL, Dannela (F), Paradise Coast
WALKER, Renee (F), Greater Kansas City
WATERS, Crissy (F), Ambassador
WEIL, Rebecca (F), Wisconsin
WOOTTON, Ingrid, Australian Section
WRIGHT, Keri, Memphis
YORK, Andrea (F), San Fernando Valley
99 News – November/December – 2013
19
ger, Amigo, a sweet mini pinscher dog who
had been in danger of being euthanized
until Chela successfully fought to save
him. Shortly after, animal rescuer Dane
arrived with Bonnie and Clyde, two cats
who were in need of new homes after their
owner passed away.
At 12:30, I departed from Long
Beach with a pilot friend, Rudi Limich,
as co-pilot. The day was hot but beautiful,
calm and clear. Our flight time was 1 hour
and 36 minutes, 10 minutes early due to
a nice tailwind. Shortly after our arrival
at Fresno, Kim, from Placerville, arrived
in her beautiful classic V-tail Bonanza.
After a brief stopover for water, bathroom
breaks and dog frolicking, Kim departed
and completed the PNP last mission leg,
delivering Amigo, Bonnie and Clyde to
their forever homes in Santa Rosa.
This could not have been a nicer first
mission experience. I later learned that
Kim is a Ninety-Nine with the Alameda
County Chapter — you have to love it!
Since my first trip, I have had the
opportunity to fly five Pilots N Paws mis-
sions, four with Kim where she flies the
northern leg and I fly the southern leg.
It is amazing to me how resilient these
sweet dogs are. With everything they have
been through, they still have not lost their
willingness to trust. They all adjust to
flying very well, and once they settled in,
I
first learned of Pilots N Paws (PNP)
when attending a WINGS Safety
Seminar in Long Beach, California.
Pilots N Paws is a 501(c)(3) non-profit
organization founded in 2008 by animal-
lover Debi Boies and pilot Jon Wehrenberg.
The idea first took flight when Jon agreed
to help Debi by flying a rescued Doberman
from Florida to South Carolina. The trip
was a success, and the two brainstormed
about how to rescue other animals.
As a result of their collaboration,
the website pilotsnpaws.org was soon
launched. This site is intended to be a meet-
ing place for those who rescue, shelter or
foster animals, and volunteer pilots willing
to assist with the transportation of animals
from kill shelters (and probable death) to
shelters and rescue groups in other areas
where the animal has an opportunity for a
home and medical care if needed. Today
the organization has 3,168 pilots and
10,551 volunteers responsible for saving
thousands of animals each year.
My first Pilots N Paws mission was
to fly the first leg, Long Beach (LGB) to
Fresno (FAT) of a two-leg mission where I
was to meet Kim Purcell, a longtime PNP
volunteer pilot who would transport our
furry passengers to Santa Rosa (STS) and
to safe, secure and happy futures.
At 11:30 a.m., Chela from Starfish
Animal Rescue delivered my first passen-
BY VIKKI MENA
Fullerton Chapter
several of my furry passengers napped the
entire flight. It seems many dog passengers
are excited as soon they come to the airport,
almost as though they sense something
wonderful is about to happen…that maybe
they are going home!
To other Ninety-Nines who might be
looking for a good reason to fly, please
consider Pilots N Paws. It’s an opportunity
to fly while helping a worthwhile cause.
It has given me the opportunity to make
new friends, gain flight experience and log
hours, explore new geographic areas and
has proven to be an extremely rewarding
experience every time.
Ninety-Nine pilots Kim Purcell and Vikki Mena, along with volunteer Rob Lupient, help
these pups get to their safe, new homes. Four of them were rescued from an environment
jammed with 104 dogs.
Vikki Mena, right, and Kim Purcell with little
Amigo.
Flying
with
Amigo,
Bonnie
& Clyde
99 News – November/December – 2013
20
Dorothy Wetherald Rungeling's enjoyment of life shines through her accomplishments. Her curiosity
and willingness to try something that interests her has earned her the admiration of all Canadians. Her
accomplishments have broken barriers in aviation for women. After winning the Governor General's Cup
in 1953 and being the only female competitor, Dorothy was dubbed "Canada's Flying Housewife" by a
leading Canadian newspaper. Dorothy has been listed in the Canadian Who's Who since 2005.
Dorothy was born in 1911 and raised in Fenwick, Ontario, a green jewel in the heart of the Niagara
Peninsula. She married Charles Rungeling and has a son, three grandsons and five great-grandsons. Her
adoptive mother was famous poet Ethelwyn Wetherald.
Contrary to the general rules for women of the 1930s, Dorothy owned her own motorcycle. She was
active in trap and skeet shooting, winning Dominion Marksmen prizes. She played the clarinet, violin
and saxophone in a dance band. Dorothy trained and showed hunters and jumping horses, taught riding
and was the first woman in North America to hold both a Canadian and American license to judge horse
shows in the 1940s.
Dorothy
Rungeling,
102, recalls
a life replete
with music,
motorcycles,
horses —
and flying
Introduction by Akky Mansikka
Biography by Dorothy Rungeling
Wandering with friends through the historic Distillery District of Toronto, Canada, with
its shops, galleries and cafes, we came upon an art gallery displaying portraits of “Canadian
Champions” who were role models in many disciplines of Canadian life. Upon close examina-
tion, among all the celebrities, to our surprise was First Canadian Chapter Member Dorothy
Rungeling wearing her Amelia Earhart Medal. At the age of 102, she has the honor of being
the First Canadian Chapter’s longest consecutive member. Following is the biography that
Dorothy wrote to accompany the painting.
~ ~ ~
Photo of Dorothy, above,
courtesy of portrait artist
Martha Southwell.
Dorothy was
awarded the
Amelia Earhart
Medallion in the
1980s for her many
achievements in
aviation. In 2003,
when she was 92,
she was awarded
membership in the
Order of Canada.
99 News – November/December – 2013
21
In 1948, Dorothy took her first ride in a single engine, two-
seater Cessna 120, and a new chapter in her life began. She soloed
in 5½ hours after taking flying lessons. She obtained her private
license on August 10, 1949. Her husband Charlie bought her a
1949 Luscombe 8A.
In 1950, she flew her first long distance flight from Canada to
Cuba in a Piper PA-20. Dorothy obtained her commercial license
in 1951 and was the first Canadian to enter the International Air
Race from Orlando, Florida, to Windsor, Ontario. She also became
a member of The Ninety-Nines.
In 1952, Dorothy finished second, flying a race from St.
Augustine, Florida to Welland, Ontario. She was instrumental
in getting this race to come to Welland. In 1953, she flew her
Piper solo to win the Governor General's Cup, a 26-mile course
around pylons at the Canadian National Exhibition in Toronto. She
placed third in 1955 and won this race in 1956. She chaired five
international air races which either started or finished in Canada.
In 1953, Dorothy obtained her instructor rating and taught
flight and ground school at Welland. She was one of three women
in Canada to obtain a senior commercial license in 1954 and a
multiengine rating in 1955. In 1955 she flew the International Air
Race from Washington, D.C. to Havana, Cuba, and the Trans-
continental Air Race from Long Beach, California, to Westfield,
Massachusetts. She was the only Canadian entry in the race.
She flew the Transcontinental Air Race from San Mateo,
California, to Flint, Michigan, and the International Air Race from
Hamilton, Ontario, to Havana, Cuba. She placed 4th.
In 1958, Dorothy obtained her Class 1 instrument rating and
was the only Canadian woman to hold an airline transport license
(ATR). She was also the first Canadian woman to solo a helicopter
– a Bell G2 after 4½ hours instruction.
She flew the Transcontinental Race from San Diego, Califor-
nia, to Charleston, South Carolina. Dorothy was the only Canadian
entry in the race. She also flew the International Air Race from
Welland, Ontario, to Grand Bahama Island, and the Michigan
Air Race.
In the 1950s, she wrote a weekly column on aviation for the
Welland Tribune and was soon given the post of aviation editor
for the newspaper.
In later years, Dorothy wrote and published many articles in
Canadian and American magazines. Her story published in Air
Facts magazine, New York City, told of a fixed wing pilot learning
to fly a helicopter. Her book was purchased by Bell Helicopter
and was added to their library.
In 1963, she flew air races from Welland, Ontario, to Hol-
lywood by the Sea, Florida. She was awarded the Amelia Earhart
Medallion in the 1980s for her many achievements in aviation.
In 2003, when she was 92, she was awarded membership in the
Order of Canada. She has written four books since 2001 when
she was 90 years of age.
Overheard at a Ninety-Nines meeting in the late ’70s: “Who
is that beautiful woman over there?” “Her name is Sheila Chris-
tine Hopkins.” “She must be a movie star.” “Well, actually she
was an actress and her stage name is Sheila Scott.” “And she’s
a pilot too?” “Is she ever, the holder of over 100 flight records.”
“All American?” “No, worldwide. She’s the British Ninety-Nines
Governor, also honored by Her Majesty the Queen.” “Oh my!”
No matter how big Sheila Scott’s name became in aviation,
England’s foremost woman pilot was a down-to-earth Ninety-
Nine, friendly and gentle though always resolute. She learned
to fly in 1958 and bought an open cockpit Tiger Moth that she
named “Myth” (a female moth). She then moved into her beloved
Piper Comanche 260 named “Myth Too,” which carried her on
her first flight around the world in 1966 and today is displayed
at the National Museum of Flight in Scotland. Sheila’s longer
record flights were flown in her twin engine Piper Aztec, which
naturally became “Mythre.”
In her autobiographies Barefoot in the Sky, I Must Fly and
On Top of the World, Sheila recounted the thrills and dangers of
her record flights. After her seemingly walk-in-the-park initial
records across Europe, she became intrigued with Jerry Mock’s
record flight around the world. Naturally she one-upped Jerrie,
flying the longest solo ’round-the-world flight. She said, “The
sky has become my real life.” Receiving the 1967 U.S. Harmon
Trophy as the world’s outstanding female pilot confirmed it.
Probably the most extraordinary record was her 1971 Aztec
flight over the true North Pole, via equator over the top to equa-
tor. Despite severe mechanical challenges, Sheila completed the
34,000-mile solo flight, the first light aircraft circumnavigation
from an equator start. Since the navigational and communica-
tion challenges were extraordinary, NASA lent a hand while
also using Sheila and the Aztec as a laboratory for biomedical,
environmental and positioning research. The U.S. Navy tracked
her via satellite.
In recounting the solitude of her flight over the Arctic, Sheila
Scott remembered it as “acres and acres of lonely desolate ice-
packed sea as if everyone else on earth had mysteriously disap-
peared and I had wandered out into space on some other planet.”
TIME TRAVELS
Sheila Scott (1927-1988) before
her 1971 record-breaking trip.
SHEILA
SCOTT
England’s
Foremost
Woman Pilot
NASA
BY GENE NORA JESSEN
Idaho Chapter
Martha Southwell is an award-winning portrait artist. She is a
member of the Portrait Society of Canada and the Canadian Aviation
Artists Association. Martha is available for people and pet portraits,
aviation and historic subjects, www.marthasouthwell.com, e-mail
99 News – November/December – 2013
22
F
or over 60 years, The Ninety-Nines,
Inc. has been a major sponsor of the
National Intercollegiate Flying As-
sociation. To be a named sponsor, various
organizations and individuals pay a fee
of $1,500, which comprises the primary
income of NIFA.
Specifically, The 99s sponsor the
Women’s Achievement Award at the
National SAFECON, the annual national
event each year. An additional $1,500
($700, $500 and $300) was awarded to
three deserving women this past May.
The Achievement Awards function as
“scholarships in reverse” because most of
the women who interview are heavily in
debt due to academic and flying expenses.
According to Past President Jody
McCarrell, “NIFA started almost when we
did in the 1920s. At one time, The Ninety-
Nines furnished around 80 to 85 percent
of the judging staff and almost a quarter of
the funding to help run the event.”
What is the event? Colleges, universi-
ties and flying clubs associated with col-
leges get together and compete for who
is the ‘best of the best’ in collegiate avia-
tion. The top three teams who win at the
region level are invited to the National
Event. NIFA has 11 regions. For the last
several years, approximately 30 schools
have been represented at SAFECON, al-
though there are now 64 member schools.
Next year’s SAFECON will be held
May 11-17 at Ohio State University, which
is now NIFA’s headquarters. Besides The
Ninety-Nines, sponsors come from many
aviation groups, families and aviation
related companies.
The Ninety-Nines Women’s Achieve-
ment Award is chosen by an interview
process. The candidates have already com-
pleted an application that includes letters
of recommendation from their instructors
or college and a resume. Many students are
already Ninety-Nines, but the rest are given
applications and often promise they will
join right away. This is “hands-on recruit-
ment” of the very best sort. The candidates
usually leave the interview enthusiastic
about The Ninety-Nines. The involvement
of 99s as judges in other events reinforces
this enthusiasm and provides the opportu-
nity to interact with each other.
Due to increasing financial demands,
the International Board of Directors has
NIFA Wants YOU!
BY CAROLYN CARPP
International NIFA Chairman
Whether you volunteer to be a judge or make a
donation, you are investing in our future pilots.
2013 Women’s Achievement Award winners are recognized, from left, Carolyn Carpp,
judge; 1st Place, Courtney Copping, SIU Carbondale, Chicago Area Chapter; 2nd Place,
Megan Brandt, USAF Academy; and 3rd Place, Adrienne (Annie) Smith, ERAU, Daytona,
Florida Suncoast Chapter; Diane Bartels, judge; Cali Smith, daughter-in-law of 99s sponsor
Molly Smith.
reduced the amount of NIFA funding to
$500. We were fortunate to have an anony-
mous donor pick up the sponsor fee for us
this year. We cannot depend on another
anonymous donor for next year’s awards.
Consequently, the continuance of 99s as
a NIFA sponsor depends on contributions
from Sections, Chapters and individual
members of The 99s.
In planning your giving for the next
fiscal year, please consider donating to
NIFA. The opportunities for promoting
The 99s among female college students are
endless. All contributions should be sent to
99s Headquarters where they are kept in a
separate account. Make the check payable
to The 99s Inc., but note NIFA Donation or
Women’s Achievement Award on the line
so designated.
While we need your donations, come
join us as a volunteer and discover the
“special unique” opportunity NIFA affords
you as a Ninety-Nine.
99 News – November/December – 2013
23
TOUCH & GO
MOLLY McMILLIN RECOGNIZED FOR JOURNALISM
EXCELLENCE
Molly McMillin, Kansas City Chapter member and Wichita
Eagle reporter, was recently awarded the 2013 Gold Wing Award
for Journalism Excellence from The National Business Aviation
Association (NBAA).
The 2013 award was presented to Molly for her story titled
“Corporate Planes Give Business Owners an Edge,” published on
December 13, 2012. Molly’s story helped put forward the true face
of business aviation. It also described the stress that the recession
and Washington rhetoric has put on companies of all sizes trying
to use business aviation to survive and compete in an unforgiving
economy and global marketplace.
The NBAA Gold Wing Award for Journalism Excellence is pre-
sented annually for excellent, accurate and insightful reporting on is-
sues related to business aviation, by trade or nontrade media. The award
recognizes journalism’s important role in reporting the significant
contributions of business aviation to the national economy.
The Association for Women in Aviation Maintenance
(AWAM) welcomed Wally Funk, Fort Worth Chapter, to the
Columbus Airport to help the Girl Scouts of Historic Georgia
kick off their Aviation Pathway Program on August 18-23.
Upon landing at Columbus Airport, her plane was given the
“Spray of Honor” by the airport fire department.
During her visit to Columbus, Wally spoke to about 900
students, describing her Life in Space program where she
underwent numerous tests to become qualified in NASA’s
notable Mercury 13 program.
In addition to tours of various aviation facilities, presenta-
tions and VIP receptions, she was honored with a key to the
city by the mayor of Columbus.
— Wally Funk
WALLY FUNK INSPIRES GEORGIA GIRL SCOUTS,
RECEIVES KEY TO THE CITY
Wally Funk with Girl Scouts in Columbus, Ohio.
TWO 99S RECEIVE AOPA SCHOLARSHIPS
Oregon Pines 99 Ashley Collins, a college freshman
from Silverton, Oregon, was named the recipient of the
Jimmie Allen Flying Club Scholarship.
She took her first flight in February 2013, and by August
had logged more than 40 hours of training toward a private
pilot certificate in a Cessna 150. Ashley is also working to-
ward certification as an airframe and powerplant mechanic,
and has already helped build an experimental aircraft in a
high school program.
Her dream is “to one day be a pilot who knows ev-
erything possible about all aspects of aviation, including
mechanics, and to be in the sky and feel at peace with
everything.”
Tulsa Chapter member Diana Sauder of Owasso,
Oklahoma, has been named the 2013 recipient of the Gina
Santori Flight Training Scholarship. Known as a frequent
volunteer for projects in her general aviation community
even before she began flight training, Diana, 41, works full
time while also attending Tulsa Community College for an
associate’s degree in aviation science technology.
Interest in aviation began to dawn for Diana in 1992
when she worked as a line girl at Tulsa’s Harvey Young
Airport, but it took many years, and overcoming some
significant life challenges, before she arrived at “a turning
point in my life” that opened the path for her to pursue her
aviation dream “to fly professionally in any capacity.”
Flight training has already provided Diana a broad
spectrum of experience: She has logged time in the Piper
PA-38 Tomahawk and more recently in Cessna 172 and
182 aircraft.
Martha Phillips, Ashley Collins, Susan Liebeler.
99 News – November/December – 2013
24
GRASS ROOTS — Section and Chapter reporters share their recent activities
MANITOBA CHAPTER
This fall, six women pilots and Learn to Landers (usually
right seat companions), who are members of the local 99s
and other pilots groups, flew into Manitou, Manitoba for the
Honey, Garlic and Maple Syrup Festival, as well as the Percy
Lea Memorial Fly-In.
This set a record for the most women pilots and Learn to
Landers flying in to a fly-in in Manitoba. Learn to Landers last
year completed a mini course that included two Friday evening
ground school sessions plus four hours of flying. Several have
gone on to complete their private pilot license and fly C-FLUG,
a C-150 owned by the Recreational Aircraft Association in
Canada and rented out for minimal cost.
We shopped at the various booths and feasted on fresh
gourmet meals. It isn’t surprising that Manitou set the current
record; Manitou has a long history with women’s studies.
Nellie McClung, a nationally recognized activist committed to
improving the social and political well-being of women, lived
in Manitou from 1890-1911.
With 10 new women pilots finishing their private pilot
licences this fall, flying clubs across the province can expect
more women pilots to participate in their fly-ins. The experi-
ence and camaraderie gained by attending these events lasts
a lifetime!
Enjoying the Manitou festival and fly-in are, from left, Marissa
Selman, Sheila Pogson, Betty-Ann McPhedran, Jill Oakes,
Noreen McIwing and Colette Pierce. Photo courtesy Alvin
Wiebe.
BAY CITIES CHAPTER
Bay Cities had a busy summer attending several events at lo-
cal airports: Palo Alto Airport Day; Wings Over Marin at Gnoss
Airport “Women in Aviation” in conjunction with the Marin 99s;
“Mustangs and More at the Nut Tree Airport, and more. We vol-
unteered for events, including flying EAA Young Eagles.
— Wendy O’Malley
Bay Cities Chapter members Riley Rees, Kristen Zeigler and Renee
Sandell are all smiles when answering questions about The 99s.
EASTERN NEW ENGLAND CHAPTER
The Eastern New England Chapter announces three
2014 scholarships available for women and men studying
for a career in aviation or training in aviation. In addition,
the New England Section offers one scholarship in memory
of New Hampshire aviator Shirley Mahn, who died at the
controls of her Piper Aztec.
The Eastern New England Scholarships for 2014 are:
• Georgia Pappas Honorary Scholarship: $1,500, open
to both men and women.
• William Bridge Scholarship: $1,500, open to women
with at least a private pilot certificate.
• Ann Wood Kelly Memorial Scholarship: $1,500, open
to women with at least a private pilot certificate.
The New England Section Scholarship for 2014 is:
• Shirley Mahn Memorial Scholarship: $1,500, open to
both men and women.
All scholarships require a New England connection.
The applicant must be either a resident of one of the six New
England states or studying in New England. For questions
and applications for all four scholarships, email your request
to [email protected] or mail to Linda Moody, 93A Groton
St., Pepperell, MA 01463. Completed applications must be
postmarked no later than January 31, 2014.
— Linda Moody
— Jill Oakes
99 News – November/December – 2013
25
GRASS ROOTS — Section and Chapter reporters share their recent activities
GREATER SEATTLE CHAPTER
Greater Seattle 99s attended the
Museum of Flight’s event on Sep-
tember 21 to welcome the Lockheed
Electra. The aircraft will be part of the
museum’s new Amelia Earhart exhibit.
The Museum’s Electra is one of only
two in existence and the only one with
the same modifications made to Ear-
hart’s plane. It was flown around the
world in 1997 on the 60th anniversary
of Earhart’s global flight attempt.
People came dressed in clothing
of the era, there was a live band play-
ing ’30s music, and there were many
educational events on the agenda.
“Now configured and marked
precisely like Amelia Earhart’s clas-
sic aircraft, this Electra will serve as a
tangible and exceptionally appropriate
reminder of a vibrant and memorable
pioneer and inspiration to generations of young women who
will follow in her footsteps,” said museum officials.
— Kim Torres
BRITISH COLUMBIA CHAPTER
Our BC Coast Chapter had a fantastically busy summer
participating at seven airshows/airport community days, includ-
ing Langley (CYNJ), Delta (CAK3), Pitt Meadows (CYPK),
Boundary Bay (CZBB), Abbotsford (CYXX), Chilliwack
(CYWC) and Squamish (CYSE).
The highlight was the Abbotsford International Airshow
August 9-11, where we had terrific support for our informa-
tion booth. In all, 11 members, past members or soon-to-be
members spent lots of time talking to those stopping by.
We generally had two or more 99s working in the booth
at a time, so when we spotted someone slowing down, one of
us would initiate a conversation and before you knew it, we
would be hearing someone’s life story.
Our volunteers advised people on local flying clubs, flying
schools and available 99s scholarships. We suggested to young
people that they join Air Cadets and to consider attending local
colleges for their aviation programs. We encouraged all to join
the Canadian Owners and Pilots Association and visit their
informational website. We invited women and older teen girls
who are thinking of learning to fly to attend one of our 99s
meetings. In short, we shared “our passion for flight.”
During the three days, we spoke with many women and
girls, boys and men. In all, we visited with 365 people. No
wonder we were tired at the end of the day.
A thrill for me on Saturday was meeting a 99 from the
Greater Seattle Chapter, Vera Martinovich. She stopped at our
booth to say hello. When I asked her if she had flown in to the
airshow, she replied that she had just landed landed the B-25
in the WWII aerial fly-by. Wow!
— Clare Brooks Higgins
From left, L-R: Kim Torres, Sandy McCormack, Gin Hildebrant, Nancy
Jensen, Eva Parks, Marilyn Ward, Andrea Chay, Elise Hoit and guest.
A Seattle Museum of Flight representative waves from the cockpit.
From left, Cindy Pang, Colette Morin, Ash Keenan, Marcia Strang,
Clare Brooks Higgins and 99s supporter at the Abbotsford
International Air Show.
99 News – November/December – 2013
26
GRASS ROOTS — Section and Chapter reporters share their recent activities
OREGON PINES CHAPTER
There’s no place like Oregon to be a 99. The first weekend
of September, we flew to Hood River for the Western Antique
Aeroplane & Automobile Museum Fly-In. Morning fog in the
Willamette Valley delayed some, but others flew in through the
Gorge Friday night and camped out. The museum has one of the
largest collections of still-flying antique aeroplanes in the country,
and we spent a fabulous weekend admiring and showing off our
airplanes.
An Aleutian Low threatened to put a damper on our “Find-
ing Amelia” event the third weekend of September. However,
Left to right, Sandi Archer, Debra Plymate, Kim Rayburn, Barbara
Anderson, Irene Plymate (99 Mom), Barbe Park, Patty Viall, and Grace
McGuire (San Diego 99) at the Finding Amelia Gathering at 7S5.
expert piloting brought the Museum of Flight’s Electra 10-E on its
way from Reno to Seattle, across the Cascade Mountains in very
marginal weather, to the Willamette Valley in Oregon. Arriving at
12:15 on Saturday, it gave 99s, AE buffs and airpark residents a
spectacular glimpse of something right out of 1937 – two passes
over the Independence State Airport.
“Electra 16020” announced turning base for Runway 34.
UNICOM gave the wind, “south at one five.” The pilot turned final
and came roaring past us over the runway. Once wasn’t enough.
The pilot did an encore. It couldn’t have been any better. Then
16020 announced departing Runway 34 northbound to meet up
with a plane near Mt. Rainer for air-to-air photos before arriving
at the Museum of Flight in Seattle.
Our gathering at Independence included Debra Plymate’s
PowerPoint showing Amelia in Oregon in 1933 and some of the
high points of her character and why we are so intrigued by her.
This was followed by Patty Viall’s Electra NR16020 cookies, sell-
ing for 99 cents as a fundraiser for our flight scholarship program.
AE buffs came from Seattle, Portland and even San Diego,
with 99 Grace McGuire telling us about her Electra, the only
original 10-E in the world, and her hope to recreate Amelia’s flight
as accurately as possible.
The last weekend of September was the Independence Hop
& Heritage Festival. The original Hop Fiesta began in the early
1930s. The festival grew out of the “end-of-harvest” celebrations
in the migrant camps at the hop fields. Today the festival features
vendors, music, activities, cultural displays and a pancake breakfast
at the airport. Ninety-Nines dressed in period costume, along with
Oregon Pilots Association members, served pancakes and sold
raffle tickets for flight training scholarships.
— Debra Plymate
SUGARLOAF CHAPTER
Lin Caywood, Sugarloaf Chapter, assisted by Debi Drey-
fuss and Lucia Mencia from the DC Chapter, plus three 49½s
and three members of the Chesapeake Sport Pilot Center at
Bay Bridge, spent the day painting the compass rose on the
North Ramp approximately mid-field.
We picked up a prospective member and had a great day.
The design used was courtesy of Kitty Hawk Chapter member
Karen Davis and was much easier and quicker to lay out and
paint. The equivalent of six people took six hours to complete
the 50-foot diameter rose, not including the surveyor’s time
to mark the center and heading points.
The new asphalt was not primed so it took three coats of
paint — ten gallons of white and five of blue Sherwin Williams
quick-dry road marking paint.
— Lin Caywood
Kathy Hutchins (Chesapeake Sport Pilot Center/prospective
Associate member), Lin Caywood (Sugarloaf), Lucia Mencia and
Debi Dreyfuss (DC) showing off the completed compass rose.
99 News – November/December – 2013
27
GRASS ROOTS — Section and Chapter reporters share their recent activities
CHICAGO AREA AND INDIANA DUNES CHAPTERS
September 14 could not have been a more beautiful day
even if we ordered it. Co-chairs of the Illiana Air Derby, In-
diana Dunes members Marcia Forcey and Lynn Pergher and
Chicago Area Chapter member Cynthia Madsen, arrived early
for setup at the Historic Ford Hangar at Lansing Municipal
Airport in Lansing, Illinois. Ralph and Cynthia Madsen also
went to the Ford Hangar the day before to begin setting up
and arranging the tables, with much help from EAA member
Steve Sikorski.
Cynthia and Marcia set up the spot landing line by 7:45
a.m. to be ready for racers due to begin arriving at 8 a.m. Af-
ter briefings for the route, weather and timing, racers began
leaving about 10:15 for the 150 nm round robin course armed
with questions to answer from the air.
Winners were: First Place: Adam Springmeyer and Tim
Rener, C172 (Indiana Dunes); Second Place: Lou Erikson and
Gregg Erikson, Grumman Tiger (Chicago Area); Third Place:
Margaret Wint and Tricia DeBlock, C177 (Indiana Dunes);
Spot Landing: Mary Lou Erikson (Chicago Area).
— Diane Cozzi
MINNESOTA CHAPTER
Summer was a very busy time for the Minnesota 99s,
including two more compass rose airmarkings in Willmar
(KBDH) on July 26-27 and Princeton (KPNM) August 9-10.
On August 18, the MN 99s had a joint meeting in Austin
(KAUM), Minnesota, with the Iowa Chapter that included a
tour of the Hormel SPAM Museum.
Despite reports of thunderstorms and wind gusts into
the 20s, we had our second annual Puddle Jump Poker Run
on August 24 at the airports of Faribault (KFBL), Owatonna
(KOWA), Albert Lea (KAEL), Mankato (KMKT), New Ulm
(KULM), Hutchinson (KHCD) and St. Cloud (KSTC).
— Melissa Aho and Johanna Bischof
FINGER LAKES CHAPTER
From August 3-9, 2013, the second annual Western NY
Aviation Adventure Camp was held at Genesee County Airport
(Batavia, New York). This camp for 9th through 11th graders
featured a week-long program that included ground school, flying
hours, glider rides, helicopter rides and field trips to Niagara Falls
AFB and Rochester Tower.
This year, the Finger Lakes Chapter decided to provide a
scholarship for girls attending the camp. We split the scholarship
between two girls, Cami Benson and Danielle Coccilo, from
Oregon and British Columbia, respectively.
Several Finger Lakes Chapter members, Marcia Gitelman,
Jutta Dudley, Sandy Brown and NY-NJ Governor Willy Mattocks,
spoke to the group about their aviation learning experiences and
aviation accomplishments of women.
The camp was administered by the Genesee County Busi-
ness Education Alliance and sponsored by many local businesses.
This unique opportunity provided a hands-on aviation experience
for students to explore the aviation industry as a potential career
field. The overnight camp included accommodations, food, flight
expenses and instruction, admission fees and transportation.
The plans for the 2014 camp will be posted on the Internet
in March 2014 at wnyaviationadventurecamp.org/.
— Marcia K. Gitelman
Cami Benson
and Danielle
Coccilo
Minnesota 99s enjoy a visit to the Hormel SPAM Museum.
Lynn Pergher, T.J. Shaum & Marcia Forcey from Indiana Dunes
Chapter with trophies.
99 News – November/December – 2013
28
GRASS ROOTS — Section and Chapter reporters share their recent activities
FIRST CANADIAN CHAPTER
This year’s Gold Cup Air Rally was held on September 6-8,
starting at Ottawa’s Rockcliffe Airport, Ontario and ending at
Poughkeepsie, New York. A fantastic time was had by the 15
members who participated in this year’s rally:
Team 1: Mary Norman, Mary Woodall and Akky Mansikka,
Amphib 185; Team 2: Robin Hadfield and Jessica Buscher, C-150;
Team 3: Noriko Date, Jean Franklin Hancher and Marilyn Dickson,
C-172; Team 4: Susan Begg, Maureen Egan, Sharron Lutman,
PA-28; Team 5: Sophie Veilleux and Lina Masi, PA-28; Team 6:
Lisa Bishop and Janet Chesterfield, C-182.
Our starting point was in Ottawa at the Rockcliffe Airport.
Everyone flew to Rockcliffe on Thursday evening to be ready for
the Friday rally start. Adding a bit of a challenge, the organizers
held a Spot Landing competition on the Rockcliffe arrival.
Friday morning saw us all back at the airport for an early
morning pilots’ briefing, then we climbed into our planes and
headed to Syracuse, New York, where we cleared U.S. Customs. A
quick refuel and we were off again to Lock Haven, Pennsylvania,
home of the Piper Aviation Museum. It is a great little museum
inside the original site of the Piper Aircraft factory.
Next morning we departed the river valley of Lock Haven
heading east to Poughkeepsie, New York.
Skirting the south side of the Catskill Mountains, you quickly
descend to the Hudson River Valley to land at the incredibly
friendly Duchess County Airport.
We held our banquet at Old Rhinebeck and passed along the
Gold Cup Air Rally trophy to this year’s winning team of Mary
Norman, Akky Mansikka and Mary Woodall. The winner of the
Spot Landing Competition was Noriko Date.
This was a great adventure and a fun-filled three days of flying
across a scenic part of Pennsylvania and New York.
— Akky Mansikka
Winners of the Gold Cup Air Rally were, top to bottom, Mary
Woodall, Akky Mansikka and Mary Norman.
GERMAN SECTION
It has already become a beloved tradition. At least two
safety trainings, one in spring and one in fall, organized by
our German members Rosa Hoeltken and Hetta Reinsch,
take place in Germany. Both women are long standing, ex-
perienced flight instructors.
At the long October weekend of the German Unity Day,
around 25 passionate women pilots met for the 7th fall train-
ing at the Diepholz Airport (ETND) in the heart of Lower
Saxony. At an airfield equipped with all training necessities
plus night flight infrastructure, the women had access to all
options, practicing according to their individual needs.
Support by volunteer flight instructors was provided
for CTR crossings (English radio communication), ILS ap-
proaches, a wide repertory of air work, night flight training,
tail wheel ratings, joint weather briefings, flight planning and
more. An almost two-hour cross-country flight to Quedlin-
burg, an old and beautiful city of UNESCO world heritage,
completed theory and practice.
For the first time, as a special feature, this year’s training
was enriched by an “airfield hopping and rally exercise” with
touch and goes at 14 (!) airfields around the Bremen CTR.
The strips were located by manual navigation only (no GPS),
with touch and go according to compulsory German landing
patterns within given time. Some strips measure even less than
550 meters (1.800 ft). Rather low visibility and low clouds
didn’t make it easier, but safety was always first.
As the icing on the cake, the pilots had to answer ques-
tions such as “the color of the hangar door east of the tower…”
The female crews did a great job. Fun paired with safety!
Already looking forward to the next 99s spring refresher in
April!
— Ruth Haliti
Participants in the 7th fall training at the Diepholz airport
(ETND) in the heart of Lower Saxony, Germany. The event
was organized by German Section members Rosa Hoeltken
and Hetta Reinsch.
99 News – November/December – 2013
29
Nominees Invited to Apply for 2014
International Awards
The International Awards Committee is soliciting nominations for three prestigious awards
to be presented by The Ninety-Nines, Inc. at the 2014 International Conference in
in New Orleans. The deadline for submitting nominations is January 15, 2014.
Description of Award Who May be Nominated
Award of Achievement
(for Ninety-Nines)
Three separate Awards of Achievement
may be presented for Contributions to
The Ninety-Nines; for Contributions to
Aviation; for Humanitarian Efforts.
An individual member of The Ninety-
Nines (living or deceased); a group
of 99s; or an organization within The
Ninety-Nines, such as a Chapter, Sec-
tion, Committee or Trust. An individual
recipient must be a current member or
have been a current member at the
time of her death.
Award of Merit
(for non-Ninety-Nines)
Recognizes a significant contribution
to any facet of aviation, such as avia-
tion or aerospace education, aviation
science, aviation history, aviation
commerce, aviation legislation, etc.
An individual (male or female, living
or deceased) or an organization. The
recipient may not be a current or
former member of The Ninety-Nines or
of a group within The Ninety-Nines.
George Palmer Putnam
Award
(for non-Ninety-Nines)
Recognizes support provided to The
Ninety-Nines by an individual (male
or female, living or deceased) or an
organization. The contribution may
have occurred in the past or present,
as a single action or a series of events.
An individual (male or female, living
or deceased), or an organization. The
recipient may not be a current or for-
mer member of The Ninety-Nines or
of a group within The Ninety-Nines.
Who may submit nominations? A Ninety-Nines Chapter, Section,
or Trust.
How to nominate: Submit a one-page letter, signed by two of-
ficers or trustees (as appropriate). The nomination must include
the name, address and telephone number of the nominee or the
nominee’s next-of-kin if the nominee is deceased. Up to three
additional pages of substantiating material may be attached to
the letter. Send your nomination to International Headquarters
in Oklahoma City to the attention of the Awards Committee.
Nominations should be received by the deadline of Wednesday,
January 15, 2014. Note: Previous nominees may be resubmitted.
Questions? Contact Linda Cain, International Awards Chairman,
at [email protected], 703-669-6326.
By Linda Cain, International Awards Chairman
Award
Debbie Gallaway
was honored with
the 2013 Award
of Achievement
for Contributions
to Aviation.
99 News – November/December – 2013
30
NEW HORIZONS
GALE BROWNLEE
New York-New Jersey Section
Gale Brownlee, a longtime member of The Ninety-Nines,
died on October 25, 2012. Having survived surgery after a fall,
complications arose that even she could not master.
A lifelong resident of Woodstock, New York, Gale had a
varied and successful series of careers beginning with being a
“Hat Check Girl” in New York City in the famous clubs of the
day. During WWII, she joined a USO tour entertaining troops.
Strikingly beautiful, she turned to professional photography
modeling and television commercials, then on to fashion design
with her own label.
Moving back to her hometown of Woodstock, she mastered
skiing but, with one ride in a single engine plane at a small local
airport, she found her true career. Within a short time, she received
her commercial certificate, became a charter pilot and an instruc-
tor, flew fire watches over mountains and did aerial photography.
She became a member of The Ninety-Nines, participated in
Powder Puff Derbies and once co-piloted a twin engine plane to
Nairobi, Africa. She also flew helicopters.
She was brave, had style and an indomitable spirit. She went
to her new horizon as she had lived her life.
— Mrs. Lee Marvin, sister
PATRICIA JOANNE DAVIS
Redwood Coast Flyers
Pat flew on to new horizons un-
expectedly on July 29, 2013. She was
diagnosed suddenly with bone cancer
and was gone within days. Pat was born
in Fortuna, California, in 1937 and raised
her five children in Eureka.
After Pat retired, she earned her
private pilot certificate at age 65, and
she joined the Redwood Coast Chapter
in 2002. Pat was also an active volunteer
in the Civil Air Patrol in Eureka and Redding, California.
Pat loved to travel and volunteer. She made a yearly trip to
the Navajo Nation where she tutored the children and brought
donated books, blankets and clothing for them. Five years ago, Pat
joined the United States Coast Guard (USCG) Auxiliary in Eureka
on Humboldt Bay. In 2011, Pat was voted Auxiliarist of the Year
Flotilla 86. She became a licensed radio operator and operated the
marine radio system for the USCG. She was recently selected to
be commander of the USCG Auxiliary Flotilla 86 Humboldt Bay.
Pat always loved a challenge!
For those who knew Pat, we will always remember her enthu-
siasm, integrity, hard work and compassion. She was a dear friend!
— Rose Hanan with Pat’s son Timothy Caturegli
ELAINE SCHMIDT HUF
Eastern Pennsylvania Chapter
Ninety-Nine Elaine Schmidt
Huf, 65, and her husband Tom Huf,
73, flew together to new horizons
on September 8, 2013, when their
Cessna T-50 ‘Bamboo Bomber’
crashed in a wooded area in north-
eastern Pennsylvania.
Elaine and Tom had flown from
their home in Kingsley, Pennsyl-
vania, to Blakesburg, Iowa, for the
Antique Airfield fly-in and were on the return flight home when
the accident happened. They were flying to their farm strip PS50
when the T-50 went down in a thunderstorm just three miles from
their field.
Both had a passionate interest in antique aircraft. They owned
several aircraft and would fly them to and feature them in air
shows. Elaine was well known for her pink 1947 L16-A she lov-
ingly named ‘Rudolph.’ She also owned a 1941 Baby Stinson 10A.
In addition to being a Ninety-Nine, Elaine was an active
member of Ladies Love Taildraggers. She was an accomplished
private pilot with glider, seaplane and instrument ratings. Elaine
was also a Bristol Township police officer from February 1975
until her retirement in 2002.
— Mary Wunder
ALICE ROBERTS
99s Past President
Phoenix Chapter
On September 1, 2013, Alice Rob-
erts completed her stay on earth. Alice
served as president of The Ninety-
Nines from 1965-67.
She was born in Bisbee, Arizona,
to Mattie and ‘Pop’ Parsons. In the fall
of 1936, Alice and Charles Roberts
married.
A take-charge manner and a stub-
born notion of how to accomplish things defined Alice. Faith, and
an aversion to failure, carried her to successes as a wife and mother,
friend, businesswoman, international air-race winning pilot, sharp
shooter, baker of biscuits, musician, vocalist and indefatigable
Skip-bo champion.
Thank you, Alice, for sharing with family and friends your
quick smile and your incredibly infectious laughter. Thank you
for demonstrating to your children, grandchildren and great
grandchildren tenacity, daring and unwavering faith. Thank you
for being an openly strong but gracious woman in a time when
smart, strong women were rarely appreciated. Finally, thank you
for demonstrating dignity as advanced age and disease slowly stole
your strength and fierce independence. Thank you for exhibiting
acceptance never to be confused with resignation.
She loved The Ninety-Nines and was very proud of the friend-
ships she made over the years.
— Sissie Roberts Shank
Elaine Huf.
Patricia Davis.
Alice Roberts.
Elaine Huf.
99 News – November/December – 2013
31
IONA MAY INMON GAMERTSFELDER
Rio Grande Norte Chapter
Iona Gamertsfelder of Las Ve-
gas, New Mexico, died of cancer on
September 18, 2013, at the age of 84.
She was born April 29, 1929, on the
Inmon Ranch in the far southwestern
bootheel of New Mexico.
She was a golfer, pilot, teacher
and homemaker with four children,
eleven grandkids and five great-
grandkids. A member of The 99s since
1990, Iona learned to fly as a teenager.
She and her brother flew their J-3 Cub
from the ranch to school every day, but
it wasn’t until nearly 50 years later that
she received her private pilot certificate. Delightfully spunky, Iona
will be missed by all of her Rio Grande Norte Chapter sisters.
— Elizabeth Hunke
ROBERTA “ROBBIE” TAYLOR
West Canada Section
Robbie Taylor flew to new horizons on June 25, 2012, in
Victoria, British Columbia. Robbie was a truly remarkable person.
She was, first and foremost, a loving family member and devoted
friend, but she was also a pioneer, an activist, a humanitarian
and an all-around rabble-rouser whose dedication and hard work
inspired those around her to be better people.
Over the years, some of Robbie’s occupations included com-
mercial pilot, search and rescue pilot, business owner, journalist,
city councillor and university instructor.
Robbie was a charter member of both the Canadian Rockies
Chapter and the West Canada Section. She learned to fly in north-
ern Ontario on floats, and when her family moved to Cranbrook,
British Columbia, she had to take lessons on landing on wheels.
Robbie fulfilled her wish of having a Celebration of Life, that
included herself, a week before her passing, and many of her
fellow Ninety-Nines were in attendance. We will miss Robbie.
— Betty Lee Longstaff
LUCILLE WATKINS
Oklahoma Chapter
Lucille Watkins departed this earth on August 20, 2013, after
a life devoted to her six musical sons and her career in music.
She played the organ at churches and the piano at nightclubs and
parties.
Lucille earned her private certificate in 1965 and was spon-
sored into the Ohio Chapter. After moving to Oklahoma City, she
was active with the Oklahoma Chapter and was organist at St.
Joseph Cathedral. On the day of the Murrah Building bombing in
HELEN WYATT SNAPP, WASP
Florida Gold Coast Chapter
Helen Wyatt Snapp, 94, of Pembroke Pines, Florida, flew to
new horizons on January 20, 2013.
Born in Washington, D.C., she attended Mary Washington
College in Fredericksburg, Virginia. In 1942, Helen married Ira
Benton Snapp. During a summer break at college, Helen started
taking flying lessons with her sister Evelyn. Helen entered the
Civilian Pilot Training Program where she acquired her private
pilot certificate.
Helen was accepted into the Women Air Force Service Pilots
fourth training class 43-4-W4. After graduating she was sent to
Camp Davis, North Carolina, and her final assignment was Liberty
Field, Fort Stewart, Georgia. There she was involved in a top secret
mission with radio-controlled aircraft that would later be packed
with explosives and used as the first guided bombs.
After the war, Helen returned to Washington, D.C. area to
raise three children while working for the U.S. Postal Service.
— Excerpted from the Miami Herald
ELEANOR WORTZ, WASP
Santa Clara Valley Chapter
Long time Santa Clara Valley 99s
member Eleanor Wortz passed away
recently. Eleanor was also a member
of the Women Airforce Service Pilots
(WASP).
She grew up in North Carolina,
earned a BS in Business Administra-
tion from Catawba College and was
the first woman in the wartime Civil-
ian Pilot Training Program. After the
WASP program ended, she moved to
California and worked at Stanford
University. Next she taught ground school in Portuguese to Air
Force cadets in Brazil.
She met and married James Howard Wortz in Brazil and
moved to Los Altos, California. Never one to let moss grow under
her feet, she organized the Woodland Vista Swim and Racquet
Club in Los Altos, taught business courses at the College of San
Mateo and Canada College and was a longtime member of the
Los Altos United Methodist Church. She also wrote Fly Gals of
World War II, published in 2011.
— Pat Gregory
1999, she had intended to practice on the organ at St. Joseph’s but
instead opted to visit a friend in the hospital. She escaped injury
since the cathedral is just across the street from the bomb site and
suffered severe damage.
We will miss Lucille’s unique talents and love of The Ninety-
Nines.
Iona Gamertsfelder.
NEW HORIZONS
Eleanor Wortz, WASP.
Jeremy Dwyer-Lindgren/The Museum of Flight
The mystery of what happened to Amelia Earhart and her Lockheed Electra still captures the imagination
of the world almost 75 years later. On October 12, another Electra, one of only two genuine Electras
in existence, was installed at The Seattle Museum of Flight. Fully restored to the exact specifications as
the 10-E Electra flown by Amelia, the aircraft is featured in the museum’s exhibit “In Search of Amelia
Earhart” that runs through April. The goal of the exhibit is to motivate young people, especially girls,
to take some risks and become the best they can be.
99s Mueseum of Women Pilots
THEN
ELECTRA
NOW
