We arrived at the launch area in the late afternoon. The road is still being worked on above windy vista, we encountered only a 10 minute delay. This section is one lane and is not paved for 4 miles.
Pov agreed to go along and help out. I wanted to cut the brush from the launch area, and maybe fly. Our visitors picnicked in the shade and after a while cutting we joined them.
The south west wind let up a little and cycles started coming up the launch ramp. We set up,I had some help. I launched into a 10 to 12 mph cycle around 545pm. I was able to work the west face for a while and then I headed out across the canyon at 8800msl. I did not encounter much sink until the last half mile. I crossed thru the gap to the west face of Samanigio ridge. I have not had to cross the open canyon in many years, about six. The west face was very soarable and I spent the next half hour climbing in thermals with a red tail hawk to heights of 9500msl. We drifted into the canyon and tracked northeast. Geerate view of the Reef of Rocks, from mid canyon!
I checked out the south end of the ridge and found little to work. Then returned to work the peak area of the ridge. The air was quite smooth and relaxing to soar in.
I wanted to be on the ground at or before sundown so I headed out the spine in front of the peak. The glide to Catalina was smooth and predictable. I landed at Eagle Crest. It is located at the northern end of town. I swooped in for a perfect stand up in front of a small crowd. The field is located at the entrance to their community. It is amble in size and flat. I had noticed this field driving by last fall. It is located right on Oracle road. It was sundown and a much more pleasant temperature. So people were out biking and walking. I answered questions from the neighborhood kids and pedestrians for 15 to 20 minutes. No one had landed in their community before, everyone was friendly. The distance from launch to Eagle Crest is 9 miles, not bad for a old HP II. I packed up and then walked the 180 yards to the Local saloon. I though I had time for a couple of cold ones. I was seated at the bar, however my mind drifted miles a way. I still had the sensation of movement and the pleasant thoughts that go with it. The flight was a little over an hour long, it seemed longer. The trans like state was broken by Pov`s call. After his help loading we were home wardbound. I owe another Lemon flight to a good friend thanks Pov.

Eric