Last year we started a new event.  "Before the Heat" came about as an idea for a last chance to fly in central Florida before if gets really hot!!  This year we weren't as warm as last year, but we did have to dodge some rain showers.  We did make it, and everyone had a super great time.

This casual get together at the Lake Wales, Florida Airport June 7th and 8th brought together 45 of mostly the "Florida Gang".  Non-Stop flying for two days at a perfect site.  Hundreds of flights from 7:30am until 7:30pm over the two days, and a bit of rain didn't dampen the sprits or the flying.  We all enjoyed a steady southerly breeze right down  the runway.  There was not a significant mishap all weekend due to the skill and care of the all the pilots.

Most of the turbine manufactures were well represented again this year.  AMT, JetCat, SimJet, RAM and Tiano's were all there, and very few problems were reported.  Just a remarkable performance by all who attended.  Steve and I want to thank everyone for their participation and generosity.

We look forward to seeing everyone at this years Tenth Annual Florida International Jet Rally November 7 - 9, 2003.

We must continue to acknowledge and thank the management and staff of the Lake Wales Airport / SkyDive Lake Wales.  Without their willing support the days we enjoy there would not be possible.
 

Here are a few pictures from "Before the Heat" 2003

	Talking about the tale of two cities, a beautiful replica and a modern marvel. Left:  Joe Saitta scratch build this beautiful ME262.    Twin DF power and a really nice bird !! Right:  BV's new King Cat.  This ship is really big and has a great range of performance.
	Left:  John Banner and his new BVM 86.  First flights were perfect.  A real knock out in Metal Coat!! Right: Mr. Mitch. I know everyone is wondering where the cigar is??  Mitch's son Mike in the background finally becoming a real "jet guy".
	Two scratch build beauties Left: Johnny Walker and his award winning Hawker Hunter. Right: Jay Smullen and his very unique Aries.  Looks weird, but flies really great.
	Left: Anthony Greco with his really nice PCM L1011.  Finished as Airforce 1, it's always a crowd pleaser. Right:  Brice Watson's turbine helicopter.  Brice did several demos, and this is a steady machine.
	Left:  Tom dodgen, Tom Wood and Pat McCurry.  Not sure if they are discussing their favorite beverage or weather to use thick or thin CA??? Right:  Jorge Escalona and part of his Miami Air Force.  A beautiful YA-F18 and Tornado are always crowd pleasers.
	Intermission at a jet rally is always a relaxing time.
	Left:  Tim Davis had some bad luck with his new one-off design.  He will get the bugs worked out and have her flying again soon. Rene Alverez's BVM BobCAt.  Not sure if Batman will fit in this bird??
	Left:  Wally Sundey and his great flying Avonds F-15 with turbine power.  How about his new three story work stand. Right:  What Jet event would be complete without "Team Kramer".  Their stable is growing, and Frances is helping to make things happen.  I hear he purchased some glue recently?!?!
	Left:  Paul Hopkins and his YA.  Paul also has a great line of lights for your aircraft.  Contact him at: jpofl@aol.com for more information. Right:  Great to see someone having a great time, and making it a family affair.
	I guess we had a few folks show up for a friendly weekend event   Our next event is the 10th Annual Florida Int'l Jet Rally November 7 - 9, 2003.  Be There