Harmony of the Gorge

Many memorable moments marked Day 2 of my mini-trip.

The flight to Hood River was #1, as I skated over 4500' rolling hills at 5500', having been ordered by ATC not to climb.  As expected, smooth air on the windward side, and a bumpy ride on the leeward.  

Wind changed three times in the last half mile of the final approach to runway 25.  Decent landing, then massive struggle to park the airplane as transient parking had just enough incline that I couldn't push the airplane into it's spot.  No reverse gear.  Picture me straining at a 45 degree angle inching the airplane backward and repositioning the wheel chocks every inch.

While waiting for Judy Galloway to arrive I went to the WAAAM museum.   http://www.waaamuseum.org. That extraordinary collection of cool memorabilia was memorable moment #3.  Must go back!   You can pay to drive a Model T Ford there!  They have airshows with antique aircraft!   

Eagle eyed readers noticed I skipped over memorable #2.  That happened when the airport operator offered to loan me a bicycle to get to the museum.  🚵. It's been 30 or 40 years since I've ridden a bike.  The saying is true.  Riding a bicycle is like riding a bicycle; you don't forget.

Judy and Ken Galloway picked me up and we went to delicious Mexican dinner with a group.  From there we went to the rehearsal.  Coach Raymond Schwarzkopf, fresh from Harmony College NW, was there to coach the ladies and Hood River's nascent men's barbershop chorus.  The two groups were slated to perform Lida Rose / Dream together in an upcoming show.

Memorable moment #4, when the men came strolling into our rehearsal hall, in gentle lock step, singing Lida Rose. Long time fans of Music Man, imagine that famous scene, not with a single quartet and one woman, but with two choruses!!  I got so excited I pulled out my video camera.

We don't have a men's group to sing with in San Francisco.  I was so jealous.  Coach Raymond worked them hard and the group responded.  I stood up and cheered their final run through!!!