RSSMix.com Mix ID 2922091

noreply@blogger.com — Thu, 04 Apr 2019 21:17:00 GMT

Hi Everyone,

Hope you all have great plans for this upcoming weekend. Speaking of weekends, on Saturday, March 9th, the weather was perfect here in Crescent City for the GFWC Welaka Woman's Club Annual Charity Golf Tournament. Let us tell you a bit about this course...It's a hidden gem. Very beautiful scenery and the greens are great. This all made for a perfect day. The tournament attracted 90 plus golfers. It was such a popular event that 30 Small Businesses provided "Hole Sponsorship". At hole #1, was "The Albatross Lady". Julie & I chatted and laughed with everyone. It was good times indeed! The players were extremely happy to get "Gold Goodie Bags" from AlbatrossLady.com. I think they liked the chocolates the best. Lunch was served by the GFWX Ladies while prizes and lots of raffle gifts were given away. This tournament is in its 6th year and gets bigger each time. We definitely suggest looking out for it next year.

Come Visit Us at Hole Number One Next Year!

Julie Fetcko & Monique Glaize

Personal Update

noreply@blogger.com — Wed, 21 Mar 2018 18:23:00 GMT

Hi Everyone,

I have decided it is time for me to become more interactive with my website and my clients. Many of you have been there for me and watched me go through the struggle of my life following the accident and the loss of my husband. For those who helped me, I thank you. It was my family, friends & clients that helped me have the strength to face my challenges and have the courage to pick up the pieces and put my life back together.

Five years and fourteen ankle surgeries later and my life is now returning to normal. I am again able to live independently without the use of any mobility devices. Just to walk to my office or drive my car brings me joy. The dogs & I have gotten back into our daily walking routine and love that time together.

This year as I settle into my new independent life I look forward to sharing more with you.

Live, Laugh, Love

Julie

Grumman Widgeon Flying

noreply@blogger.com — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 23:21:00 GMT

Recently while working in my office, a friend called who lived at the south end of our runway. We were talking and I heard the lovely drone of airplane engines. I told Marie, that I needed to get off the phone so that I could step out and see who it was because it sounded like something big. Marie walked out and said, "I can see it from here, it's a big seaplane and it just landed and is going to the north end of the runway." I, of course, said "if it's a seaplane it must be coming to see me so I really do need to go!"

Much to my disappointment, this beautiful seaplane taxied by and went to a neighbors house. I walked out to check the mail to get a better look and went back to work. That lasted about ten minutes and I grabbed my camera and headed over to be nosy. I introduced myself to the owner who had just purchased the airplane, admired this beautiful machine, took a few photos and went back to work. This beautiful Grumman Widgeon came and went at Eagles Nest Aerodrome for about a week. Every time I heard those engines I went out to the runway to enjoy the sight of the take off or landing.

On the following Saturday my neighbor and the owner of the Widgeon were in my hangar and the remark was made that I must really like the airplane as I had been there to watch every take off and landing. There is just something about a Grumman that makes me want to see it fly. The owner offered to take me out for a flight later that afternoon which was thoroughly enjoyed. We flew the river and did a water landing in front of Charlie Clements house hoping he was there to enjoy.

If you stand by the runway long enough you might just get to go fly a beautiful airplane. This particular ride meant more than most to me, as now I have flown all four of the Grumman Seaplanes, the Widgeon, the Goose, the Mallard, and am still flying the Albatross!

Visit AlbatrossLady.com at the U.S. Sport Aviation Expo January 18-22, Sebring, FL Booth 108

noreply@blogger.com — Wed, 11 Jan 2012 00:26:00 GMT

Well, we survived Tornadoes at Sun'N Fun.....

"No Sun But Lots of Fun" at Sywell in England..

Now we are headed down to sunny Sebring, Florida for the US Sport Aviation Expo starting on Thursday January 18th and running until Sunday January 22. We are excited to be displaying as we have great properties at reasonable prices. Visit Julie & Jan in Booth 108, share a few stories and have a few laughs. Don't forget your checkbook!

Looking Forward to Seeing You There, Julie & Jan

.......& Piper

Airpark Life to Resume November 2011

noreply@blogger.com — Fri, 14 Oct 2011 17:58:00 GMT

We'll be back from Canada to resume our adventures at Eagles Nest Airpark in Crescent City Florida the second week of November.

It's been a terrific summer here in the Canadian wilderness, but we look forward to trying out our new aircraft, a 1946 PA 12 when we get south.

First stop on our blog tour, Old Cubby will take us to Ponce De Leon Springs for a big pancake breakfast.

PALATKA (KEY LARKIN J28), FLORIDA

noreply@blogger.com — Thu, 21 Apr 2011 20:30:00 GMT

Located just North of Eagles Nest and Mount Royal Aerodromes in Northeast Florida, Palatka (Key Larkin 28J) is in easy reach to a variety of experiences and wonderful selection of authentic southern dishes that will please any range of GA visitors.

I’ll lay out several itineraries for a stop-in to Key Larkin Airfield to accommodate both brief and longer visits to the area.

The first reason to visit the brand new terminal is Avgas. Key Larkin’s fuel buyer is committed to offering the cheapest prices for fuel possible. Clearly, she is doing a great job because our purchases have been consistently the best deal on the eastern seaboard.

The least you can expect to save is .10 c per gallon up to $2.00 per gallon, so plan on filling up!

Courtesy cars are available for up to two hours by phoning ahead 386-329-0148 or 386-329-0149, or shoot them an email at Palatka28J@hotmail.com. Dave is the friendly fellow at the front desk and he’ll be pleased to help you with any request.

SHORT VISITS – just breakfast or lunch

If you are stopping in on a weekday and just looking to grab a good breakfast or quick lunch, City Café is where the locals dine. The cafe is well-known for reliably tasty breakfasts and their homemade potato soup made from spuds grown just down the street. Unfortunately, they are not open weekends.

If you are looking for a longer lunch with fabulous scenery, check out Trip Advisor’s number one rated establishment for the area, Corky Bell's. A very busy restaurant perched alongside the beautiful St. John ’s River.

If you’re lucky, you’ll spot some alligators or manatees from your waterside table while chowing down on a variety of seafood dishes. Corky Bell's serves everything from traditional lunch and dinner fare to “swamp” dishes like alligator, frog legs and a local specialty, fried catfish. While I’m not a seafood eater, Peter and others have told me the fish and shrimp are very good.

Like most restaurants in Northeastern Florida, avoid the water and ice. I find they generally taste awful. When possible, I order all beverages bottled.

After your meal, take an unguided tour of Palatka's historic architecture. You can pick up a full color guide at the airfield.

LONGER VISITS – activities and food

One of Palatka’s best kept secrets is Ravine Gardens State Park. It’s smack dab in Palatka, but hidden off-the beaten path next to a hideous power transfer station. It’s like stumbling upon an emerald in a puddle of mud. In fact, I spent six months traveling by car to Palatka on errands and had no idea it existed until I conducted research for this blog.

I suggest stopping in at City Café and ordering a lunch to go, then driving the five minutes to Ravine Gardens for an unforgettable picnic.

“A ravine was created over thousands of years by water flowing from the sandy ridges on the shore of the St. Johns River. In 1933, this ravine was transformed into a dramatic garden by the federal Works Progress Administration. Much of the original landscaping still exists as formal gardens and an extensive trail system. A1.8-mile paved road winds around the ravine, offering motorists and bicyclists a view of the gardens. The Ravine Loop is closed to vehicle traffic one hour before sunset, but remains open for pedestrians, bicycles, and wheelchairs. The garden's peak flowering period is azalea season, late January to April. Numerous picnic sites, equipped with tables and grills, are available to visitors.”

Peter and I drove around the ravine, pulling over from time to time and walking down into it. The park is impeccably kept and is an excellent example of Florida landscape architecture. From suspension bridges, limestone pillars, magnificent gardens, and a canapy of live oak and cypress, you’ll feel as you’ve been transported back in time to an unspoiled Florida.

In the spring, blooming Azaleas take over the park and live outdoor concerts are held in the amphitheater. Bring a blanket and some snacks and prepare to hear some terrific local musicians jam.

Further afield, 20 minutes west of Palatka in Interlachen, Florida, you’ll find the charming Backwoods Smokehouse.

There are two reasons for taking the trip to the Backwoods. First, at the restaurant you can catch a kayak tour and spend a couple hours not just alligator and bird watching, but monkey spotting! Yes, monkeys minus the zoo! All the while burning off some calories paddling Florida’s natural lakes and springs.

If at all possible, take the tour of my favorite spot, the Ocklawaha River. Not only will you find an abundance of cranes, herons, eagles and many other birds, I generally see 5-8 large gator’s in just a two hour trip.

The second reason to visit Interlachen is the Backwoods Smokehouse. Decorated in traditional back-country style, their menu offers the best of real southern cooking. From ribs, pulled pork to collard greens, real baked beans, and sweet potatoes. They also offer home baked deserts and ice cream. To take home, their homemade jams, jellies and sauces by the jar are delicious.

Now, I know what you’re wondering, “Leslie, the courtesy car is only for 2 hours?” Yes, you are right. I would either rent a car for the day, or better still, take another couple with you on the adventure and piggy back the two hour limit for a total of four hours. The more the merrier anyhow, right?

When conducting my research, I did find a number of negative reviews about the Backwoods Smokehouse. Generally, the service is “okay,” the servers aren’t particularly friendly. For us, the food was good, but stay away from the sliced pork as it is quite fatty. You can’t go wrong with the ribs and pulled pork sandwich, and the corn bread is the best I’ve ever had.

The perfect day for me, would be to eat lunch at the Smokehouse, take the kayak tour, then return to the smokehouse for desert on the way back to the airport. Yes, you guessed it—I love food!

Bon Appetite, y'all!

PIGS, PLANES, AND PEOPLE

noreply@blogger.com — Sun, 27 Mar 2011 22:03:00 GMT

The energy here at Eagles Nest Airpark has spiked recently.

The well-worn windsock was replaced with a crisp new one and the grass is greening-up nicely on the runway.

Last night, after spending the day driving around Daytona with the top down and checking out the classic car event, Peter and I attended Harvey’s annual pig roast on an empty lot next to the runway. I must confess, with the savory meat essence wafting through the air, I was quite pleased I gave up being vegetarian some years ago.

Guests from Mont Royal and Spruce Creek Airparks arrived in all kinds of planes. Flying in were a Carbon Cub, Cessna 172, Hatz bi-plane, Globe Swift, and a Piper Aztec. With the pilots came delicious pot-luck dishes and interesting stories of people embracing a life less ordinary. “This ain’t your usual Sunday picnic,” I pondered while milling about to catch the fascinating conversation spilling out into the evening air.

The pig roast is a terrific opportunity to meet neighboring airpark residents and enjoy the perfect Florida temperatures spring reliably delivers.

Speaking of spring, the Albatross Lady, Julie Fetcko, ramped up her usual frenzied pace as she puts the final touches on her real estate display booth while juggling property showings.

Flagging down her speeding red golf cart, I grill her about the “who’s who” of soon-to-be residents. From the U.K., Canada, Germany, and all crags and corners of the United States, Baby Boomers are zooming into the Florida Airpark way of life, and their backgrounds are as colorful as an African sunset.

According to Julie, energy levels and events tend to peak in anticipation of one of general aviation’s most loved events, the Sun ’N Fun International Fly-in and Expo. Billed as “Spring Break for Pilots and Friends,” Sun ‘N Fun will be held from March 29th- April 3rd, 2011, in Lakeland, Florida.

Hosted by the Florida Air Museum, the annual event brings aviators and exhibitors together for fun, education and networking.

If you are flying in, print out the 2011 NOTAM CLICK HERE.

For driving directions, CLICK HERE.

Next post, I’ll be exploring the ins and outs of the historic town, Palatka, Florida. You may be surprised to discover what little-known aviation secret hides at the Municipal Airport.

FLYING INTO FEAR

noreply@blogger.com — Mon, 21 Mar 2011 15:46:00 GMT

Life is really interesting in an airpark--each morning when the first rays of light nudge me out of my sleep, I wonder what surprises lay ahead.

I have a spectacular view of the water runway from my pillow and am usually entertained by the pleasant drone of our neighbor’s Sea Ray as he dutifully practices early morning take-offs and landings. It’s a sane sort of flying, and I really admire it.

Peter, however, has a single seat Pitt’s Special bi-plane. He started flying aerobatics at the age of 62. I’ve been watching his routine from the safety of our dock while sipping my Italian Roast coffee. Pittsy, as we affectionately call it, is the human equivalent of a chubby, hyper kid with a propeller beanie hat and too much allowance.

The plane is painted a Popsicle orange and easily spotted against the backdrop of the blue sky. As Pittsy spins, rolls and loops through the air with the grace of an Eagle on Redbull, I’ve often wondered, “Is Peter insane? What kind of a nut flips a plane upside down, snaps it into a roll and kills the engine—on purpose?”

I’m the gal who hates the Tea Cup ride at Disney world. In fact, I would rather wrestle starving alligators than ride anything that spins.

That said, at 3:58 p.m., the surprise showed up. My neighbor, Doug Vayda, arrived home from his job selling “Extra” airplanes, in a Waco. A great big papa bear of an aerobatic bi-plane with a roaring rotary engine.

“Do ya wanna ride?” He asked me.

“Yeah, sure, but no funny business,” I warned. There was no possible way I was doing any loops or rolls today or any other day.

I knew Doug’s, “No problem” response was not to be trusted. After all, I’m pretty sure he’s the kind of guy that spent way too much time in the principal’s office.

I climbed clumsily into the big white beast and was surprised at how beefy the front seat was. I’m used to small spaces in our Cub and Cessna. My childlike excitement ramped up when the plane began to taxi and the wind blew into the open cockpit whirling my hair into a frenzy. “Crap! I forgot to tie my hair back! How many hours would it take to get the knots out?” I pondered.

The nose was so high up, I could not see any of the runway. I asked Doug how in the world he taxied without a view. “Braille,” he quipped. Throttle all the way forward, we were quickly away and flying low and slow at about 500 feet and 100 knots.

The Waco was just as I imagined in my romantic heart; graceful, gentle and sweet. Like sipping Mint Juleps on a porch swing bathed in the fragrant air of a spring night. I don’t know exactly where the bit of braveness came from that soon found me saying, “Okay, maybe just one roll.” I vowed not to shut my eyes.

Doug obliged as he led the Waco into a Barrel Roll. Nose fiercely down as he picked up speed then pulled hard back on the stick until the world swept by me in one gloriously rolling motion.

Then a loop.

It’s analogous to a woman born without taste buds who suddenly finds them cured, and discovers chocolate and red wine for the first time.

No butterflies. No nausea. No urge to scream, “HELP@#$*&$%*!”

Just bliss.

What a lovely surprise. Life-long fear transformed into desire in one brief, rapturous moment.

I have a new problem these days.

There is no reasonably priced aircraft to make the leap from a single- seat Pitt’s to a two-seat aerobatic.

In fact, you’d think that a two-seater is nearly the same price as a one-seat aircraft with just the expense of a teensy bit more space in the fuselage. Not so. That extra seat is going to cost you twice the price. Slightly bigger engine, wings, same panel, same wheels. Roughly ten percent more airplane and twice the price. That’s pretty expensive square footage.

Although the budget may not allow me to pursue my new desire, we are fortunate to live in an airpark with people, airplanes and visitors who are a constant source of new adventures and inspirations.

USEFUL TIPS

1. U.S. aviation regulations are fairly liberal for aerobatic enthusiasts. Take off, land, flip, spin and twirl at your leisure. From Eagles Nest, there are endless places to practice.

2. You will find many good aerobatic schools within reasonable distance around Florida. While Peter was self-taught, he did his check ride at Wings Over Aerobatics with Steve Wolfe.

3. There are a few reasonably priced entry level aerobatic planes such as the Decathlon, Citabria etc. Doug Vayda knows all the ins and outs of aerobatic sales at Southeast Aero.

JEKYLL ISLAND, GEORGIA

noreply@blogger.com — Sun, 20 Mar 2011 16:27:00 GMT

While enjoying a spectacular flight up the Florida coast from Eagles Nest (FD44), Peter and I decided to call in on one of our favorite destinations, the Georgian barrier island, Jekyll.

Eighty miles north of St. Augustine, the state park with its miles of pristine shoreline, Gilded era architecture, maritime forests, quaint shops and heaping doses of genuine southern hospitality, will entertain eco-tourists, history buffs and boutique shoppers alike.

Although completely unannounced, we were met on the tarmac by fellow aviator, Rich Van Iderstyne, owner of Red Bug Motors. Rich generously provided us with a complimentary electric vehicle for the afternoon. His only request-- If we were staying for lunch, to please dine at Red Bug Motor's Pizza and Pub located next to the Great Dunes Golf Course

Grateful for the free use of the car, we were happy to oblige and were not disappointed with our selection, Johnny's Italian Sub. The eclectic menu offered everything from traditional pub fare, like meatloaf and mashed potatoes, to specialty pizza and even Greek food. Their outdoor patio even welcomes your furry companions- dogs that is, although, husbands are welcome, too.

After a satisfying lunch, we drove to the north end of the island for a mystical stroll on one of my favorite haunts, Driftwood Beech. The stark parade of once thriving trees have become a mesmerizing gallery of naturally carved art forms.

After our romantic stroll, we motored to Jekyll's historic district. Most visitors learn the island was purchased in 1886 by America's richest families, including the Rockefeller, Pulitzers, and Morgans, and used for more than 50 years as the country's most elite winter escape, until the depression, at which time the resort became derelict.

What fewer guests find out, is that the U.S Federal Reserve was conceived at the luxury camp to protect its rich members from competition. Stealthily meeting at the remote location, seven men representing one fourth of the world's wealth convinced the public and congress that the reserve was an agency of the United States Government . History's greatest slight-of-hand.

"Some people think that the Federal Reserve Banks are United States Government institutions. They are private monopolies which prey upon the people of these United States for the benefit of themselves and their foreign customers; foreign and domestic speculators and swindlers; and rich and predatory money lenders."
– The Honorable Louis McFadden, Chairman of the House Banking and Currency Committee in the 1930s.

Simply put, the goal was two-fold; to keep the nation's public in debt, slaving away to pay interest to private lenders until the day they died, and to create a banking cartel that was competition proof. The Federal Reserve is also known as "The Creature from Jekyll Island."

What the clever industrialists left behind, was an authentic collection of stunning southern architecture just perfect for wandering around whilst eating ice-cream.

With its sweeping romantic porches and captivating Victorian turret, the village centerpiece is Jekyll Island Club hotel. I most enjoyed the restored cottages surrounding the landmark, now converted into quaint gift shops and art galleries. The history of each cottage is posted outside the front doors. From groundskeepers, to boat captains and carpenters, the laymens' quarters have their own unique micro-history.

At the end of a perfectly wonderful day, Peter and I chatted again with Rich Van Iderstyne when returning the Red Bug. We discovered that not only was Rich a pilot mentoring young aspiring pilots; he spearheaded the movement to save the Jekyll Island runway from extinction by taking on powerful developers and winning!

We general aviation folks owe it to Rich to stop in and take advantage of the free use of the runway and enjoy all that Jekyll Island has to offer.

USEFUL TIPS

1. Be sure to watch out for the beautiful views of St. Augustine when passing over.

2. Between St. Augustine, and Jekyll, be on the lookout for Amelia Island which is immediately south of the Georgia border.

3. The islands just north of Amelia are home to wild horses.

4. There are hotels in every budget, from $50 per night as well as camp sites.

5. Beach bikes and kayaks are available for rent.

6. Horseback riding on the beach is offered at $60 per hour.

7. Dolphin tours and fishing expeditions are available at the marina.

8 . FAA IDENTIFIER 09J Airnav link

9. For more info: www. jekyllisland.com

August 7, Pilot Party in Paradise at Seminole Casino Immokalee

noreply@blogger.com — Mon, 28 Jun 2010 16:03:00 GMT

Seminole Casino Immokalee, located 35 miles east of Naples, Florida and just 2.5 miles from Immokalee Regional Airport(IMM) will be sponsoring "Party in Paradise", a Jimmy Buffett/Island themed party of Saturday, August 7th. There is no admission fee to attend this event for members of the Player's Club and there is no charge to join the Player's Club. As part of this event they are offering all pilots and their passengers their choice of gaming table Match Play or slot machine Free Play, complimentary shuttle service from the airport to their property (less than a 5 minute ride), along with a wrist band which will provide complimentary food and beverage service at the event. In the next few weeks an eblast will provide information on the event, local airport information, and information for contact at the casino. To request information email: nan.mooney@stofgaming.com

The Albatross Lady recommends "Desperate Measures" by Michael Heeb

noreply@blogger.com — Mon, 28 Jun 2010 15:31:00 GMT

Desperate Measures written by one of my clients, Michael Heeb, is one of the best books I have read in a long time. A story of betrayal, treachery & adventure the book keeps you engaged to the point it is hard to put it down. I finished the 434 page book in three days.

DESPERATE MEASURES The beautiful Annaliese, married to a handsome and upcoming investment banker, expected a storybook life in tony Doylestown, Pennsylvania. Instead, a brutal bloody scene unfolds - one of unending physical and emotional degradation and abuse. To escape the cruelty of her murderous husband, she seizes the unexpected opportunity for a new identity and becomes the cook on a sleek 130-foot schooner sailing for Bermuda and the West Indies. But her determined attempt at anonymity can't protect her from the unrelenting pursuit by a vicious drug lord who thinks she's the cunning cartel accountant who skimmed millions of the cartel's money. Only DESPERATE MEASURES can save her and the ship's crew from hired thugs, professional killers, and even modern day pirates as they sail from island to island. Betrayal and deceit, mixed with the solar heat of the Carribean, drive this story of survival and self-discovery. It bursts with tension, suspense, and unexpected plot twists. More information at http://www.desperatemeasuresbook.com/author.html

Albatross Lady suggests watching "The Expendables"

noreply@blogger.com — Thu, 24 Jun 2010 15:29:00 GMT

While at Sun'N Fun I had the pleasure of meeting a gentleman and his wife that also owned an Albatross and had just finished shooting a movie in which he and his son did all the flying. The movie opens next week called "The Expendables". It is an action/war film with Sylvester Stallone, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Bruce Willils, Dolph Lundgren, & Mickey Rourke. I am going to watch it to see the Albatross Flying. Could you imagine flying around with all those guys making a movie? What a blast that must have been. Here is the trailer for the movie http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C6RU5y2fU6s

Welcome you to view our new website

noreply@blogger.com — Tue, 22 Jun 2010 19:06:00 GMT

Hi there and thanks for taking the time to visit our new website. AlbatrossLady.com was originally created to market my aviation real estate and provide information about the Albatross to interested aviators. It has been a great tool for marketing on the internet and I am excited to be doing this website update to keep it fresh and interesting and make it as user friendly as possible for everyone as they visit the site. We have expanded the site over time to include information on our personal business, Land Air & Sea Restorations, and for marketing our restored airplanes as well, but the main focus remains aviation properties in North Central Florida.