http://www.wingwalk.org/index.htmlHot News!en2011-09-20T10:10:18-04:00 hourly 1 2000-01-01T12:00+00:00 Fri, 4 Nov 2011 21:37:01 -0400Blog2011-09-20T10:10:18-04:00http://www.wingwalk.org/blog/files/a1a5e45170709dc3a6d26360c866f698-22.html#unique-entry-id-22http://www.wingwalk.org/blog/files/a1a5e45170709dc3a6d26360c866f698-22.html#unique-entry-id-22Why do I do this? There is nothing that feels more exhilarating or freer to me than the wind and sky rushing by me as the earth rolls around my head. My soul is fed by the air and I get a complete sense of fulfillment by not only the experience, but by challenging myself and doing something so uniquely different. I’m alive up there. To soar like a bird and touch the sky puts me in a place where I feel I totally belong. It’s the only thing I’ve done that I’ve never questioned, never hesitated about and always felt was my destiny. I’m not the type of person that is satisfied by just sitting still and watching Monday night football. I need to be active and see and do new things.

What about risk? Everything we do has an element of risk. The media asks this all the time and my answer is always the same. I feel safer on the wing of my airplane than I do driving to the airport. Why? Because I’m in control of those risks and not at the mercy of those other drivers. I think about this all the time when I’m driving down a two lane highway at 55 mph just inches away from cars heading towards me at the same if not higher speed. All it takes is one moment of distraction from the other driver and we will hit at a collision speed of 110 mph or more. Whether they are drunk, texting, or falling asleep it is out of my control and that is what scares me. When I’m in and on my plane I have the ultimate control of my risk factors and am not at the mercy of someone else’s mistakes. A few years ago I was proceeding through an intersection at a green light. My peripheral vision caught something and I slammed on the brakes only to have an 18 wheeler whiz past my front bumper just inches away as he ran the red light. Had I not quickly stopped I would not be here today. But do I stop driving? No. I just know that my risks are greater out there on the roads than up in the air. It’s not just driving either; there are so many facets of my life here on earth that I have little control over. If I were to eliminate the risks that would really take me out, I wouldn’t even walk out my front door. But then again there is a lot of danger at home as well and “freak accidents” can happen there too. To quote Amanda Franklin “If you live your life in fear that something could go wrong, you are not living your life”.

Why airshows? I’ve seen the faces on the kids. I’ve heard the excitement in their voices. I’ve had young girls tell me that after watching me they see opportunities they didn’t before. Not necessarily with the wing walking, but knowing that I fly too they have found that their opportunities are unlimited. The wing walking grabs their attention, but the flying and the fact that I’m a highly rated pilot feeds their appetite for excelling themselves. After 21 years in airshows, I’ve had grown young adults come to me and say that they became a pilot after coming to an airshow as a kid. It is the only place where kids and their families can fully experience aviation and its potential and spark the innovation of our future. You can’t get that at a museum full of static displays. That next child you meet at an airshow could be the next Burt Rutan or Neil Armstrong. We need that spark and innovation or we won’t excel to new things. That is what makes us human. People like to see others “push the limits”. It’s not the fact that they are watching others risk their lives, but the fact that it allows them to see what we are all capable of and it encourages them to push themselves. That is why there is and will always be a need for airshows and other spectator events such as this. We are the seeds of the future.
]]>Blog2009-11-13T20:49:54-05:00http://www.wingwalk.org/blog/files/6552c602e75e2ac87b02e03c04502cac-21.html#unique-entry-id-21http://www.wingwalk.org/blog/files/6552c602e75e2ac87b02e03c04502cac-21.html#unique-entry-id-21When I stopped wing walking after my divorce I didn’t realize how much I missed it until I started going through my archives of videos and almost cried realizing that the emptiness I’ve felt these past few years was the loss of my beautiful Stearman (aka “The Beast”) and my life on the wing. I never in my wildest dreams thought, that as a single mother struggling to support 2 kids, I would ever be in a position to return to airshows. Well, a combination of circumstances, timing and just plain luck drove an intense desire to get back in the air and it has enabled me to bring back my act.

Like so many other things I’ve done in my life it is a huge risk. Not the risk of putting my life on the line, but that of starting a business on my own while working another job and raising my boys. I am working to make this venture at the very least pay for itself. I didn’t just jump into this on a whim, there has been a lot of thought and planning and of course the crunching of a lot of numbers. I finally came to the conclusion it can be done. I’ve also always been a believer in chasing after your dreams no matter how outlandish or impossible they may seem to be, because if the heart and passion is there, you will find a way.

So here I am beginning this on my own from the ground up. It will work because I believe in my heart that my desire to make it a success will drive me just as it always has. Chapter 1 was “Beauty and the Beast”. Now it’s just Beauty with the heart of a lion who has found herself a new bird.]]>Blog2009-11-21T07:34:56-05:00http://www.wingwalk.org/blog/files/95e06866d56e99b8e91a62f28b868c81-20.html#unique-entry-id-20http://www.wingwalk.org/blog/files/95e06866d56e99b8e91a62f28b868c81-20.html#unique-entry-id-20Financing is set up and the mechanic is all ready to go pick up the Stearman. I have even reserved a new N-number for it, N450JW. We are just days away from closing on the plane and finishing completion. The man in charge of the project is Jim Carlson. Jim used to be the Director of Maintenance for the Red Barons so my baby couldn’t be in more qualified hands. He has told me that the airplane should be ready in March. It will be perfect timing for the 2010 airshow season, but picking up the plane in March from Minnesota sounds just a bit chilly, but it will be an adventure.

The plans are to take Brian Rosenstein with me. Brian has played an instrumental part in this project. He was our ferry pilot for “The Beast” and a member of the Flying Circus. He probably has more Stearman time than I do and is more than qualified to go with me on this adventure. Brian is also the one responsible for the paint scheme design.

I can’t begin to described the level of excitement, not just in getting the airshow act going again, but the simple fact that I will own an antique airplane to fly and enjoy sharing that joy with others. I’m so anxious to take my boys up. ]]>Blog2009-12-17T21:46:10-05:00http://www.wingwalk.org/blog/files/223c4d1a0624edc55c67e91f1c85a478-19.html#unique-entry-id-19http://www.wingwalk.org/blog/files/223c4d1a0624edc55c67e91f1c85a478-19.html#unique-entry-id-19The weekend after Thanksgiving the airplane was moved to Olivia, MN for the final painting and assembly. The timing couldn’t have be better as the airplane was tucked away in the hanger just before a major storm hit the mid-west.

The wings are ready for final painting and the engine has been inspected. It was confirmed that all the ADs have been complied with, which was a welcome relief. The prop was removed for inspection and seat cushions are being made.

Everything is on schedule for a March completion time when it enters the final stage and the installation of the avionics. ]]>Blog2010-01-18T18:59:44-05:00http://www.wingwalk.org/blog/files/44c8259131197535b70899728574d5ba-18.html#unique-entry-id-18http://www.wingwalk.org/blog/files/44c8259131197535b70899728574d5ba-18.html#unique-entry-id-18I have just arrived home from my trip to MN to check on the airplane. It is still hard to believe that I bought this airplane over a month ago and had yet to see it in person (other than photographs). But I had the best Stearman experts inspect it and I trusted their advice implicitly.

I drove out early on Sunday morning from Minneapolis to Olivia. The 2 hour drive was torture. To say I was anxious to see the plane was the understatement of the year. When I walked into the hanger to meet Jim and Ryan my jaw dropped. The airplane was even more stunning in person. The photographs just didn’t do justice to the colors on the plane. At closer inspection I saw that the workmanship was beautiful and the airplane was clean inside and out. That is primarily due to Steve Wagner, the gentleman who painstakingly restored the plane. I knew I had bought myself a Gem.

We went over the airplane and made some decisions on miscellaneous parts of the plane. They were small things, but oh so important. I went over the stanchion (which arrived ahead of me) and showed them how it assembled and where it attached to the center section.

It is such an intense feeling to not only own a piece of history, but be making it yours in the process. The other thing that is exciting is that there will be a couple parts from the old Red Baron airplanes on my baby. The team may no longer be around, but a part of them will continue on the airshow circuit.

Completion is still set for March and I can assure everyone that this will be the most beautiful 450 Stearman on the circuit today. I may be a bit biased, but you will see for yourself how stunning it is.]]>Blog2010-03-04T18:31:31-05:00http://www.wingwalk.org/blog/files/8089ed202383a6a308707ed80a836a1b-17.html#unique-entry-id-17http://www.wingwalk.org/blog/files/8089ed202383a6a308707ed80a836a1b-17.html#unique-entry-id-17The March issue of Atlantic flyer has two articles featuring the airplane and my return. This is a two page spread in a newspaper that is distributed to FBOs (Fixed Base Operators) all along the East Coast. The first article, written by Joyce Palmer is about me getting back into the business. The second one I wrote on the airplane during my return flight after seeing the airplane for the first time. Both articles are available online and I have put the links below for easy access.

I am very pleased with the coverage and how these stories turned out. It is only the beginning of this great adventure and just a taste of what is to come. There will be a lot more media coverage as the act gets out this year and I will continue to share it all with you. In the meantime, I will be building a page on the site that will include past media coverage when I was wing walking under “Beauty and the Beast Wing Walking” as well as some articles and stories I have written myself that were published. So keep your eyes out as that is coming soon.

The ride has only begun and I’m glad you are here to share this adventure with me.

Click on the title of the story for a link to read the online version.

“Jane Wicker...her passion has taken her far....”

“What is the Definition of Insanity”]]>Blog2010-03-27T19:54:20-04:00http://www.wingwalk.org/blog/files/00f4aacc58b1c6c3e90913176c81784d-16.html#unique-entry-id-16http://www.wingwalk.org/blog/files/00f4aacc58b1c6c3e90913176c81784d-16.html#unique-entry-id-16The excitement is really building as the airplane starts to come together. The engine and internal systems are just about complete. The wings are waiting their turn in the paint booth and the prop is ready to mount.

All is going well and I’m waiting with baited breath for the test flight which will be very soon. I can’t begin to describe the feeling of hearing the engine fire up for the first time and finally see it in the air. The roar of the Pratt & Whitney R985 has always had a special place in my heart and one of the most impressive sounds to ever come from an airplane. It always hits me right in the gut. When I look back on this project it seems like just the blink of an eye when I realize that just a mere 4 months ago this beautiful bird was only just a dream and now it’s getting ready to join the ranks of the airshow fleet. The target date is still mid April to pick it up, although there is always a chance that it could be pushed back a little if we run across any snags. But there is no doubt that it will be ready soon and it is definitely turning out to be one of the best 450s I’ve ever seen. ]]>Blog2010-03-30T19:05:18-04:00http://www.wingwalk.org/blog/files/1a993a214c04f74bc4f4ce203ff1dc1a-15.html#unique-entry-id-15http://www.wingwalk.org/blog/files/1a993a214c04f74bc4f4ce203ff1dc1a-15.html#unique-entry-id-15Everything! It’s been a struggle to come up with a perfect name for the 450. I wanted something that clicked, that sounded right and a meaning that fit perfectly. Above all, I wanted to hear it and know “that’s the one”. After a long hard search, I finally hit the jackpot and now my beautiful 450 Stearman will be affectionally known as “Aurora”.

What’s in the name? First of all, if you say it out loud it’s pronounced “a roar a”. When you say it, it literally sounds like the roar of the lion and my taming of the wild beast in the air. It’s translation and meaning also strikes home. Aurora is Roman for Sunrise. When I look at the airplane and its beautiful red and gold sunbursts it always makes me think of the beautiful rays of the sun. Another meaning is “new beginning” and what could be more perfect than my new beginning and rebirth into the airshow industry. ]]>Blog2010-04-04T06:23:22-04:00http://www.wingwalk.org/blog/files/53c39ad7d2bf4dcc779a30ac5a2d8c60-14.html#unique-entry-id-14http://www.wingwalk.org/blog/files/53c39ad7d2bf4dcc779a30ac5a2d8c60-14.html#unique-entry-id-14As the time gets closer for the big trip bringing Aurora home, we are working on preparing for the adventure. You may have seen the name before as I’ve mentioned Brian Rosenstein will be flying home with me when I bring Aurora home. He’s a high time Stearman pilot and a very close friend from the Flying Circus Airshow. I met Brian out at Warrenton Airport yesterday to watch him fly the Stearman. Brian is a natural stick and so comfortable with the Stearman, but since it has been a while since he’s flown the Stearman he wanted to fly for a bit to ensure he hasn’t lost his touch. He’s been confined to the cockpit of the ERJ as a captain for Expressjet, but I can ensure everyone that he definitely hasn’t lost his touch and did some beautiful landings.

As for me, the plan is to get my currency and check out in Aurora during our trip home. Brian is a flight instructor and I will be in solid and capable hands. It will be interesting to see how different Aurora flies compared to The Beast.

A big thanks to Dave Brown for arranging this opportunity. Dave flies a great aerobatic airshow routine in this airplane and is a good friend of ours from the Flying Circus airshow. You can see him at the Flying Circus in Bealeton, VA and around the East Coast. He’s also available for biplane rides as well as instruction in the Stearman. His web site is: http://web.me.com/stearmannate/Site/Brown_Aviation.html ]]>Blog2010-04-10T08:49:13-04:00http://www.wingwalk.org/blog/files/7089661bad766e3253358daa812b212b-13.html#unique-entry-id-13http://www.wingwalk.org/blog/files/7089661bad766e3253358daa812b212b-13.html#unique-entry-id-13What started as a dream of rebirthing my wing walking just mere months ago is just about to truly become reality. Aurora was in the paint shop this week and is now donning the most striking paint I’ve ever seen. The paint will be curing over the weekend and will be trailered from Minneapolis back to Olivia for final assembly. Then its time to fire up the engine and get ready to go airborne.

I feel like a kid on Christmas day, knowing that the gifts are there but not allowed yet to open up the beautiful package. So far everything has exceeded my expectations and I see before me what will clearly be the most awesome Stearman that has ever been put in the air.

When I saw the first pictures of the plane before I bought it, it was beautiful. When I laid eyes on it for the first time in person it was more impressive and I couldn’t take my eyes off of it. The wings are stunning even in pictures and I know that when I see Aurora in person again it will be more beautiful then these pictures. The emotions will be indescribable. ]]>Blog2010-04-22T21:18:09-04:00http://www.wingwalk.org/blog/files/5b7319f1e28a801387b40c52b0b4663c-12.html#unique-entry-id-12http://www.wingwalk.org/blog/files/5b7319f1e28a801387b40c52b0b4663c-12.html#unique-entry-id-12One Monday the wing’s were mounted on Aurora and the final touches are being made for the first flight. When I got the pictures of the assembly I was stunned. I couldn’t stop looking at the pictures and was amazed at the beauty of this airplane.

The FAA is schedule to come out tomorrow and hopefully deem her airworthy for the test flights and soon she will be airborne. After all the test flying is complete it will be time to go get her and bring her home.

I feel like a mother about to give birth to her first child. The anticipation is immeasurable and I’m almost speechless. Sometimes dreams do come true.]]>Blog2010-05-03T20:00:53-04:00http://www.wingwalk.org/blog/files/86a75c83b1044ddd8051c4483016c223-11.html#unique-entry-id-11http://www.wingwalk.org/blog/files/86a75c83b1044ddd8051c4483016c223-11.html#unique-entry-id-11On Saturday night I received an email. Aurora has been rigged and the engine ran for the first time! The excitement was immeasurable. I’m so anxious to hear the sound of her coming to life. Ryan told me that he filmed the first start, but I have not received the video yet. When I do I will share it. He has told me that they will be filming the taxi and first take off.

Today the FAA Inspector came out and signed off the plane for its test flight phase. Jim proceeded to do some high speed taxi tests and ran across just a couple issues with the fuel system and prop. Once these are worked out she will be ready to take to the air.

Although a bit behind schedule each set back is still ensuring a more perfect airshow bird. Jim and Ryan are being meticulous with her and want to be sure everything is just right and although these delays are agonizing at times, I sleep better at night knowing that Aurora is in good hands.]]>Blog2010-05-07T18:39:23-04:00http://www.wingwalk.org/blog/files/b625b99925e9799bbfc413c2b42763b9-10.html#unique-entry-id-10http://www.wingwalk.org/blog/files/b625b99925e9799bbfc413c2b42763b9-10.html#unique-entry-id-10Wednesday evening I got a phone call about 8:30 (7:30 Olivia, MN time).  It was Ryan Dulas.  In the background I could hear the idling engine of the R-985.  He said "Can you hear that?".  I said "sure, but we already know it can run" (The engine ran on Saturday).  He said "Jim's, been around the pattern 4 times already and is getting ready to go again".  My heart about jumped out of my throat.  I can't begin to describe the emotions that flooded through me as I heard that my baby had made her first flight.  As we were talking I could hear the engine power up and roar as he took off once again.

It was a bit of a tense day.  We had an issue with the prop and after we replaced a pressure valve, it worked fine.  But the winds were howling during the day with gust up to 50 MPH so it was a waiting game.  I was carrying my phone with me everywhere (and I mean everywhere) waiting to hear something.  It was akin to the nervous father pacing back and forth in the waiting room for news that his baby was born.  Jim and Ryan were as anxious to fly her as I was and the moment the winds died down some, they rolled her out.  Fortunately, the winds were right down the runway.

After months of work and building all this up, the moment is more than I can imagine.  But there is much more to come.  After the testing phase, the avionics will be put in and Aurora will be ready to come home.  It is a bit behind schedule, but I have to tell you she is beautiful, sounds amazing and is worth all the time and expense that I've put into this project.  The first time I climb in the cockpit I will probably have to take some time just to compose myself.  It's hard to believe this is real, but the dream is almost alive!

Right now I feel like a proud mother seeing her baby take her first steps and wanting to share it with the world.]]>Blog2010-06-09T13:00:12-04:00http://www.wingwalk.org/blog/files/7a70145eb96823c4f8a76a619c42c2fb-9.html#unique-entry-id-9http://www.wingwalk.org/blog/files/7a70145eb96823c4f8a76a619c42c2fb-9.html#unique-entry-id-9We are just days away from the arrival of Aurora. After a few hiccups and additional delays all systems are go for our 2010 Airshow season.

In the end Aurora has turned out to be a complete restoration. After replacing the main fuel tank due to a corrosion issue, every part on her has either been restored or replaced with a new component. It is not comforting when you receive a phone call from your mechanic in which he states “I’m getting really good at dead sticking your airplane”, but the new tank resolved the issue and she was flight tested successfully after the installation. Issues will arise when you are working with 69 year old parts. But when all is said and done, those issues should no longer be a factor because she is pretty much a new bird. All the frustration and headaches will be well worth it in the end as I end up with a wing walking mount light years beyond my wildest expectations.

All that remains is the final hook up of the avionics and Jim will be flying Aurora home. I’m disappointed that Brian and I will not be able to make the trip, but due to the delays it just didn’t work for Brian’s schedule and we need to get the airplane here to finish preparing for our first show which will be on July 4th in New Bern, NC.

Once the airplane arrives, we will be start a heavy training program as well as filming promotional videos and stills with the beautiful Aurora.]]>Blog2010-06-16T20:20:34-04:00http://www.wingwalk.org/blog/files/ef5e8debbd52a42e1e9fc5a1e51a170c-8.html#unique-entry-id-8http://www.wingwalk.org/blog/files/ef5e8debbd52a42e1e9fc5a1e51a170c-8.html#unique-entry-id-8Yesterday, Jim flew Aurora down to Spencer, IA for the final Avionics installation. After a delay putting in a new tank, and some more time waiting for the weather to clear, we have finally arrived at the last stage of her transformation. She made the one hour flight without skipping a beat and after the shop is done with the installation, Jim will get the final sign off from the FAA and head East with her.

Due to the unanticipated delays, Brian and I will not be able to make the trip to bring her home. But, the main goal is to get her here safely and Jim will be personally delivering her to me. He does have Airshow Bear on board who will be making the trip with him.

I’m overwhelmed with excitement, but trying to be as patient as I can. I know it’s only a matter of days before Aurora is here and in my hands. Then we get right into training and making sure we are ready for our airshow in New Bern, NC on July 4th.

Yesterday, I received a couple SD cards from Ryan of Aurora’s first engine start as well as her very first flight. The videos are above. Enjoy! ]]>Blog2010-06-26T06:24:23-04:00http://www.wingwalk.org/blog/files/3b2e10a9b55c4aeab72a1884c71db69a-7.html#unique-entry-id-7http://www.wingwalk.org/blog/files/3b2e10a9b55c4aeab72a1884c71db69a-7.html#unique-entry-id-7What an amazing day. What was just a glimmer in my eye 7 months ago at resurrecting my wing walking has finally come to fruition. After months of hard work and a few delays, Aurora finally made it home to Warrenton, VA yesterday, June 25.

Jim was on his last leg when he realized he did not have his briefing and card for flying within the 60 mile ring of the SFRA zone. So we made a last minute deviation. I grabbed a flight instructor and rented a 172 from Warrenton and met Jim in Charlottesville, VA. Since I have my card I flew back with him in Aurora. Although the day didn't quite go as planned it worked out better as I not only took care of my biannual flight review, I got to fly in my baby on her last leg home.

We got safely into Warrenton and Jim and I went over the airplane, including the start up procedures and the infamous screens that indicated our fuel take issue (which we of course had resolved with a new tank). He showed me how to check and clean them and we found that they were clean, which is a good sign. I taxied her back to the hanger and we put her away. Even though I so wanted to stay with her, I had to leave her tucked away in the hanger so I could take Jim to the hotel to catch his flight home in the morning. I'm ready to go back and will be there a lot! I will be out tomorrow, wiping her down and getting more acquainted with her. Then on Sunday will be her grand introduction at the Flying Circus in Bealeton. To say I'm happy is an understatement. I'm ecstatic and in love! The beginning of the next chapter has officially begun!]]>Blog2010-07-08T19:51:04-04:00http://www.wingwalk.org/blog/files/69f49a7855771106e761ef50fb6f5865-6.html#unique-entry-id-6http://www.wingwalk.org/blog/files/69f49a7855771106e761ef50fb6f5865-6.html#unique-entry-id-6What an amazing day! On Sunday, July 4, 2010 Aurora and I made our grand debut back into the airshow world. I couldn’t have planned a more fitting day for this event. Not only was it our nations birthday, but it was New Berns 300th Anniversary.

The Airshow box was over the Neuse River along the cost of New Bern, NC. It was one of the most beautiful venues I have performed. Aurora flew like a champ and showed her stuff better then I could have dreamed.

This being my first airshow performance in 7 1/2 years, I will have to say I was a bit nervous. There was that voice in the back of my head wondering if I would still have it in me to make it through the 20 minute grueling routine. I was pleasantly surprise when I got through the entire act just like I had never stopped.

The crowd was amazing. Over 30,000 people lined the shores of the River to watch the wing walking along with performances by world class pilots Zach Heffley, Castor Fantoba, Goody Thomas, and Hubie Tolson. Laurie Ross did the opening jump and the airshow was announced by Mike Gallaway, of Red Bull Air Races.

After the show we took a short helicopter ride from the airport to the river bank and then a quick boat ride to the announcer. That is when I met one of the most receptive crowds. They reminded me of the greatest thing that I’ve missed about airshows, the people. We capped the night off with a beautiful fireworks display over the water. It was an airshow premier like no other and I am grateful to Hubie Tolson for arranging the event and inviting me to not only participate, but premier Aurora at his event.

Below is raw video footage of the wing walking performance.]]>Blog2010-10-29T06:27:39-04:00http://www.wingwalk.org/blog/files/3c74281c03c14c30fddf48dc83eec742-5.html#unique-entry-id-5http://www.wingwalk.org/blog/files/3c74281c03c14c30fddf48dc83eec742-5.html#unique-entry-id-5Our schedule has been so busy and I have not had time to update the blog in a while. We have been going like gang busters and I’m loving every minute of it.

In August, Bill Gordon came down to Warrenton to train with the team. He’s a natural and took to Aurora easily. Bill is the lead pilot for the Iron Eagle aerobatic team and quickly picked up on the routine. He will do some flying for us in 2011 and I couldn’t be happier. I have always been selective with who is at the controls while I’m out on the wing and Bill is one of those pilots that I entrust entirely with my life.

The first Saturday in September we did an impromptu show at Louisa County in VA. My original intention was to just fly down there to watch the show, but they were able to add us to the waiver at the last minute and loved what they saw. We have already been asked to fly in next years airshow.

On the weekend of September 10, we flew what was my most challenging show. The challenge arose because of the changing weather conditions. Our flight up to Greenwood Lake was a true adventure to say the least. With 25 knot gusty crosswinds, Brian handled Aurora like a true professional and we made it in without a scratch on her on Thursday. We were not only warmly welcomed by the organizers, but handed a cup of delicious hot chocolate that hit the spot after that very chilly flight. I awoke the next morning to find a cold and windy Friday that was rough on my body. The bumpy air added a few new bruises, but we put in the entire act and flew for a warm and welcoming crowd.

Saturday morning was a 180 in terms of the weather. We awoke to a beautiful sunny day and warmer temperatures. The air was as smooth as glass with beautiful blue skies. It was a perfect day to use my helmet camera and I caught some of the most incredible footage over one of the most impressive venues I have ever flown. The weather flipped again on Sunday and caused a rain out of the show, but all in all it was a great experience full of great people.

Last Saturday was another momentous event. It was officially the 3 month mark since Aurora’s arrival and as of yet, the boys had not seen her in person. I took them out to Warrenton and they not only gotpastedGraphic to see her, but each took a flight in her. I have never smiled so much in my life as I did knowing that I had just shared something so important and precious with my boys. They may not realize the importance and impact of it now, but some day they will treasure that moment and look back on it with wonderful memories.

We are now gearing up for the Leesburg show on October 23 as well as preparing for the ICAS convention in December. On top of my already busy work schedule, you can see how there has not been a lot of time to update the sight, but I will continue to blog as my time allows and keep everyone up to date on what is going on.

It amazes me that we have done as much as we have so fast. To book 4 airshows with no advertising and no plane in hand until June 25 is a feat in itself, and we are already getting inquiries and interest in the 2011 season. It’s going to be a big one and I look forward to meeting everyone as we tour and share this amazing adventure. ]]>Blog2010-10-27T14:30:35-04:00http://www.wingwalk.org/blog/files/32b78617160d6c046ac843ca71812a5b-4.html#unique-entry-id-4http://www.wingwalk.org/blog/files/32b78617160d6c046ac843ca71812a5b-4.html#unique-entry-id-412 months ago the dream of returning to wing walking was just a glimmer in my eye and the mere thought that I would be where I am today was almost unfathomable. From the moment I decided to purchase a “project” 450 Stearman, I had no idea I would have gone this far this fast.

When I wrote that check for the deposit on Aurora 11 months ago, it was the biggest gamble of my life. I knew the dream was deep in my heart and I knew that my passion would take me far but to say it was a huge risk is an understatement. It had been 7 years since I stepped on the wing of an airplane and although I always stayed in great shape there was that hesitation that I physically may not be up to the challenge. There was also the question of how marketable another wing walking act would truly be and if I could step back in and be competitive enough to pay for this passion. But with fire and determination I went for it.

The emotional ups and downs that followed took me through the ride of a life time. From moments of shear panic when things went wrong, to the exhilaration of hearing my bird flew for the first time was a wild ride. But nothing would ever compare to the day I saw Aurora flying for the very first time. It was the culmination of a dream. I was speechless and yes, it even brought tears to my eyes. At that moment, I knew that every decision I had made was the right one.

But, there was still the question of whether I was capable of climbing the wings again and I didn’t have much time to find out. Aurora arrived on June 25 and my first airshow was July 4. Just a few days before the show we took off in the skies over Warrenton, VA and I climbed out. Those 7 years vanished. It was if I had never stopped. I won’t say it was the easiest thing I’ve done, but was much easier than I had envisioned. I don’t remember even being out of breath when I was done. Yes, I had a couple new bruises to mark the day, but all in all it was the same as my last show years ago.

From that moment we took off like wild fire. I would like to take the time to thank the shows that booked us this year and invited us back into the airshow world. It was a risk on their part as well, especially when they were booking an act that had not even taken delivery on a new plane. But, we made our schedule and put on our show to each and every one. I also have to extend my deep appreciation to my friends who gave their full support during this venture. They know who they are and they were my rock, especially during those rough moments. Not one of them ever questioned what I was doing and always backed me up 100 percent.

It’s been a lot of work, not just putting an airplane together and getting back into the physical demands of wing walking, but the business aspects as well. In addition to the airshow responsibilities, I still work another full time job, go to school and raise two boys as a single mother. It’s been extremely challenging and time consuming, but I would not change a thing. I’ve loved every minute and it’s been worth it.

There are very few times in your life when you feel that you are in the place you belong and that you are truly in the environment that feeds your soul. I have come back to the world that feeds my hunger and a sense of pure fulfillment overwhelms me every day. It was at our first show when a young boy hung around during autographs just smiling and kept telling me how great the act was. This was one of the biggest things I missed. Sharing this dream with children and bringing that excitement to their hearts is such an incredible feeling.

Aurora has been a blessing in more ways than one can imagine. Not only has she brought me back to a sense of true happiness and fulfillment, but she has brought other wonderful things to my life. The gift of sharing my flying with my children was one of those blessings. When I stopped wing walking the boys were so young. During the last 7 years I didn’t even fly. They had heard about it, but because they were so young, they didn’t remember that mommy was a pilot too and even had more ratings than their dad. They are now seeing a part of me that they were not exposed to for so long and it makes me so happy and blessed that I can share it with them. I was the proudest mother in the world the day that they each took a ride in Aurora. This summer she also brought together two great people. It was then that a handsome pilot approached me to talk about my airplane. He had a Stearman of his own that he was restoring and wanted to check mine out. This man turned out to be a kindred spirit who shared the same dreams and passions as I and the rest of this great story is unfolding every day.

We have only begun to scratch the surface of this next chapter and the adventure has just begun. We have already booked a couple shows for 2011 and are charging ahead for what is going to be a much bigger and better year for Jane Wicker Airshows and the barnstorming world of wing walking. Keep your eyes open because we have some new things planned for the act as well.

Sometimes the greatest risk earns the greatest reward.

I thank you all and look forward to seeing you at an airshow next year.]]>Blog2010-11-15T16:55:12-05:00http://www.wingwalk.org/blog/files/5ff10a68ae57d44fe0db84def99d1d98-3.html#unique-entry-id-3http://www.wingwalk.org/blog/files/5ff10a68ae57d44fe0db84def99d1d98-3.html#unique-entry-id-3Just when I thought the most amazing year had come to a close, to my shock it just continued to get better. There are those few moments in your life that will be forever etched in your memory. Yesterday was one of those moments.

When Aurora arrived in June, my first goal was to get the airshow work going and focus on the wing walking. I had an instructor lined up to get me checked out in the Stearman, but unfortunately he had an incident on his motorcycle and was out of commission for a while. Kirk was willing to fly with me and did once, but wanted to wait until the season was over before focusing on that. I then met, Rock, who was not only an 18,000 hour airline pilot, but just happened to be a tail wheel instructor as well. Although I have a bunch of tail wheel hours, even some in the Stearman, it had been over 7 years since I had flown and was not going to be an overnight transition. After my last show in Leesburg, we focused on my flying and yesterday during my 5th flight in Aurora I was shocked when I heard those words “just let me out here and take it around”.

The excitement and nerves were overwhelming. He kept saying that he had not been touching the controls, but there was something comforting in the fact that someone was always up front to keep me out of trouble. Rolling out to the end of 15 at Warrenton, I took a deep breath and eased the throttle forward. This was it. I was alone in my baby. The power came up and I was airborne before I knew it. With a fuel injected R-985 she puts out about 500 HP on take off and rolls just a few feet before she’s clawing for the sky. The rush of that take off still gets to me.

There I was climbing into the pattern all on my own for the first time in years. The cold November wind was stinging my face as I leveled off and prepared to land. Unfortunately, a student pilot who insisted on flying a 2 mile pattern was ahead of me and caused a 360 on downwind for spacing. But with sheer determination and focus I concentrated on bringing her back to earth unscathed.

Turning on final I check my airspeed and descent rate. All was good. I had learned through my experience on the last few flights that my speed at the moment of touchdown was one of the keys to an uneventful landing in Aurora. Crossing the numbers I eased in just enough power to cushion the descent and level her off, holding her off and holding her off until the familiar squeak of the mains made contact with the runway below me. Pulling off the power I held up the tail wheel and concentrated during the most perilous moment in landing a Stearman. That transition in which the tail stops flying and settles to the ground is the moment that can bite the most experienced of Stearman aviators. The tail came down and to my amazement I was still lined up with the runway. I had done it! I taxied her off and was ready to put her away when a voice on the radio said “do it again”.

I thought it had been Rock who made that call, but as it turns out Kirk was behind me in the pattern and wanted to see another one. I taxied around and repeated the entire process making another successful and uneventful Stearman landing.

I was literally shaking from all the adrenalin and a flood of relief and excitement washed over me. It was a huge confidence builder to know that I still had it and now with time and practice I will fine tune my tail wheel skills and return to the point I was 7 years ago. Aurora and I are now completely one. Alone in the skies with my dream machine is a fantasy come true and one that I will cherish for the rest of my life.

Next on my plate is refreshing my aerobatic skills and really learning the envelope of this amazing bird. This story is still unfolding every day.

This was captured on video that you can watch below. ]]>Blog2011-03-09T06:36:17-05:00http://www.wingwalk.org/blog/files/10da0e6635f8af23ccb1e18c820c0e3b-2.html#unique-entry-id-2http://www.wingwalk.org/blog/files/10da0e6635f8af23ccb1e18c820c0e3b-2.html#unique-entry-id-2pastedGraphicIt’s been an unusually cold and rough winter this year, not conducive to even hanging out in the hanger, let along pulling Aurora out to fly. But, we somehow managed to find a couple of days to take to the skies and warm her up. She fired up like a champ and flew like an angel. It was as if she was tired of sitting alone in her stall and just aching to take to the air.

Now that March is upon us and our first event is just a few days away, we are gearing up for what is to be a big season full of adventure and new stories.

This Saturday, March 12, we will be appearing at the “Women Fly It Forward” event in Frederick, MD. Although the forecast is predicted to eventually reach 60 degrees, our flight up is during the chilly morning at 9 am. We will bundle up, make the trip and look forward to meeting all the hopeful female aviators that will turn out for this event. Currently there are 200 women signed up to take a free flight and get inaugurated into this incredible world. I’m excited to be able to share my story and inspire more women to explore this field. It was one ride from a friend in 1989 that started it all for me and hopefully I can pay it forward and pass on the excitement to more young women.

We will have Aurora on the field for a rare opportunity to see her up close. Unlike an airshow in which we are located away from the crowd, this is a chance to walk up to her and look inside. We’ll have some panels open so everyone can see what makes her tick and the unique things that make her so special. I will be on hand to answer any and all questions not only about the wing walking, but about my flying as well. It’s promising to be a great day, with wonderful weather and a perfect start to our 2011 airshow season.]]>Blog2011-06-13T13:39:56-04:00http://www.wingwalk.org/blog/files/0845c147d10363cc03e2234bb2c143f7-1.html#unique-entry-id-1http://www.wingwalk.org/blog/files/0845c147d10363cc03e2234bb2c143f7-1.html#unique-entry-id-1Well, here we are mid June and our season has begun to rock and roll. We had a couple fly in events, including “Women Fly it Forward” in March. But what I really love is to get the chance to showcase the wing walking. We were fortunate enough to do a couple fly-by’s at the Wings, Wheels and Warriors in Manassas, VA last month. But, without a waiver we were a bit limited with what we could do.

At the last minute we were invited to fill in for a couple weeks atpastedGraphic the Flying Circus in Bealeton, VA. Their 450 was down for an annual and I came out and did my thing. It was great to be on my home turf once again. The Circus was were I started it all and I had not wing walked there since 2002. It was also a chance to have a dry run with our new pilot Charlie Schwenker. Charlie has been flying wing walkers for a quite while, but needed to learn my act due to it’s increased difficulty and demand from the other wing walking acts. He picked it up like he already knew the routine and very quickly we were up and running and ready for the next show.

This past weekend we performed at the New Garden Airshow in PA. It was a great show! The layout was a bit different as the airshow box was perpendicular to the runway, but the different layout actually added to the small home town atmosphere. Because of the layout, the aircraft were able to taxi closer to the crowd line then normal and it was wonderful to see the crowd so excited to get that close to these airplanes, including the impressive B25. I’d like to say I was the highlight of the show, but I think what stole the show on Saturday was the B2 Fly.

We are now entering the busier part of the season and soon will be hitting a series of shows in a row. We have a little bit of down time to take care of a few things before we get really busy again. But we will be on the road again sooner than later. It the recent events are any indication of the remainder of the year, we are in for quite an adventure.]]>Blog2011-09-02T06:01:43-04:00http://www.wingwalk.org/blog/files/31b4511d8120fa55bf1587bed2ab8d1b-0.html#unique-entry-id-0http://www.wingwalk.org/blog/files/31b4511d8120fa55bf1587bed2ab8d1b-0.html#unique-entry-id-0I’ve been so busy this season it’s been hard to find time to update the blog. Well, here we are at the beginning of September and the Airshow season is far from over.

In June, we performed at the New Garden Airshow. It was a great small show, which I always enjoy. The weather was a little iffy both days but turned out flyable for our full show the entire weekend. The weather turned a bit sour after the show on Sunday, so we left Aurora at the airport and I sent Rock back the next day to pick her up.

On Thursday, August 18th we were finally able to do the air to air photo shoot for AOPA. I of course wanted to get all the pictures for them I could, but my main goal was to capture the inverted shot from above. Chris Rose was not only able to do that, but he was able to capture the most amazing shot. To say it’s breath taking would be an understatement! The feature article, complete with Chris’ pictures, is scheduled to be in the November issue of AOPA Pilot magazine.

On the weekend of August 20th, we performed at the Westmoreland County Airshow in Latrobe, PA. This was their first show in 10 years. They wanted to start small, but I have to say for starting small they did a fantastic job and exceeded all my expectations. It was a show packed with a lot of talent and the organizers did a great job putting it all together. We experienced some rain during the day on Sunday and I was concerned about getting in the wing walking as precipitation can be extremely painful. But shortly before my performance it stopped and we again were able to get in a full weekend performance and the crowd loved it. When I got off the airplane on Saturday the line for autographs was amazing. I know their show next year will be even bigger and more spectacular.

Last weekend was a challenge to say the least. The week leading up to Greenwood Lake we were not only keeping our eyes on hurricane Irene but on Tuesday experienced our first ever earthquake of a 5.8 magnitude. I work in DC and my building shook heavily underneath my feet. It was a surreal experience and one I wish not to repeat. Irene continued to threaten the East Coast and it didn’t look good for the show. I sent Aurora up on Wednesday with Brian ahead of any weather to ensure she’d be there to perform. Rock and I flew up on Thursday in the Cessna 310 with the boys and Friday turned out to be a spectacular day! AOPA arrived to not only take pictures of the actual performance, but filmed it as well, along with an interview that will all be posted on the AOPA website at www.aopa.org. If you are a pilot and not a member I definitely recommend you join. It’s a great organization.

Unfortunately, Irene had other plans for the remainder of the weekend and was heading towards us with a vengeance. Due to the state of emergency the organizers made the tough decision to cancel both Saturday and Sundays shows. We loaded up the planes and headed back home on Friday to get back home before Irene hit us. It was a little hectic and stressful, but we all made it back safely and were fortunately not impacted too much here at home. I can’t say the same for the rest of the North East as many people lost their property and a few even lost their lives. I pray for all those impacted and devastated by this natural disaster. The good news is that Greenwood Lake has rescheduled a rain date and we will be returning on October 22-23 for a make up performance. We are all looking forward to it and hope the weather will be much better this time.

Now it’s off to Louisa County for their show on Saturday September 3. Louisa is just a few miles from the epicenter of last weeks earthquake and they are still suffering after shocks. One as recently as yesterday morning at a magnitude of 3.4. It could be interesting, but I’m hoping that our show can be an entertaining escape for the folks down there.

It’s been a strange week between the earthquake and hurricane and one of our bigger challenges during this season, but it was also painted with some great moments of airshow performances. ]]>