We attended the Rutan (Dick(85) and Burt’s(80)) 2023 Birthday Bash in Idaho. Headed out Thursday evening (last week) and rolled into Coeur d’Alene noon on Friday. Headed home Sundsy, passing through Bend, OR to pick up a 5-speed that was overhauled for our 912. Total trip ran a hair shy of 2K total miles.
A very humbling experience to be in the presence of folks that are pioneers in the advancement of composite aircraft and Inovation. Mrs. Bugs n I met some of the nicest and friendly people there of all ages. Burt’s wife, Tonya, Burt’s daughter and associated family were wonderful to be around, it truly was a great time.
Burt talking about some of his amazing exploits.
Dick Ritan talking about the 1986 Voyager build and world flight. The gentleman to Dick’s right, with his arms crossed, was instrumental in the project. Very quiet engineer who exuded a high level of knowledge and expertise.
Got to finally meet Mike Beasly who is the editor for Canard Owners Builders Association (COBA). Ret USAF and a genuinely very nice guy. He and a buddy flew out all the way from Georgia to attend the event. He has posted some of his flights on YouTube where he takes folks for a ride in his recently completed beautiful LongEZ.
Great guys willing to talk shop and true pioneering legends.
A big shout out to Dr. Bird’s daughter Rachel, who runs the Bird Museum and Inovation center for the event.
Was able to have both of them sign our VariEZ’s logbook and the inside of an inspection panel.
