Three Great Reasons to Join Us at ROC’s Firehouse Grille

August 15, 2026 / Ian L. Sitren / Leave a comment

AFA Palm Springs Chapter 134 is growing in exciting new ways. We’re expanding our aviation activities, growing our Cyber Education programs, building new partnerships, and launching initiatives that will strengthen our Chapter while creating new opportunities for our members.

Now we need your participation. Everyone is welcome.

Whether you’ve been a member for years or have recently joined us, we encourage you to attend our events in person as often as possible. Meeting face-to-face builds friendships, generates new ideas, and helps all of us move the Chapter forward together.

We have three great opportunities coming up, all beginning at 11:30 a.m. in what has become our “Ready Room” at ROC’s Firehouse Grille in Palm Desert. It is now equipped with our new 65-inch big screen for presentations, along with an improving sound system and faster internet service to enhance our meetings and gatherings.

Wednesday, August 26 is our Air Commandos Lunch. These lunches are informal, friendly, and have no agenda. They’re simply an opportunity to enjoy good food, good conversation, and the company of fellow members and guests.

Wednesday, September 2 is our monthly Chapter Meeting and Lunch. In addition to Chapter business, we’ll present a review of our successful Summer Cyber Camp and discuss the continued expansion of our Cyber Education programs. If you’d like to learn more about the exciting direction our Chapter is heading and how we’re helping inspire the next generation through aviation and cybersecurity education, this is a meeting you won’t want to miss.

Then, on Wednesday, September 9, we’ll gather again for another Air Commandos Lunch. Every lunch brings new friendships, new stories, new ideas, and another opportunity to enjoy the company of fellow members and guests.

There is no charge to attend. Simply pay for your own lunch and beverage.

We hope you’ll join us for all three of these upcoming gatherings, or as many as you can. Your participation, ideas, and enthusiasm are what will help make AFA Palm Springs Chapter 134 even stronger as we continue to grow.

Thank You!

AFA Palm Springs Congratulates EAA on Mission 2.5

August 14, 2026 / Ian L. Sitren / Leave a comment

Today we want to congratulate EAA and the thousands of volunteer pilots, chapter members, and supporters who have reached an extraordinary milestone: 2.5 million Young Eagles flights. Since 1992, the Young Eagles program has introduced millions of young people to the wonder of flight, often sparking a lifelong interest in aviation and aerospace.

Here in the Coachella Valley, we’re especially proud of our friends at EAA Chapter 1116, who conduct Young Eagles rallies almost every month, giving local young people the opportunity to experience their very first flight in a general aviation aircraft. Their dedication has made a lasting difference in our community.

As Frank Brabec, President of EAA Chapter 1116, recently wrote in the chapter newsletter, aviation needs more than pilots. It needs mechanics, technicians, engineers, cybersecurity professionals, and many other talented people who will design, build, maintain, and protect the aircraft and systems of tomorrow. That vision closely aligns with the work our Chapter is already doing through Cyber Education and the Air & Space Forces Association’s CyberPatriot program.

We are excited about the growing relationship between AFA Palm Springs Chapter 134 and EAA Chapter 1116. Together, we have an opportunity to inspire young people, introduce them to aviation, and help them discover the many career paths available throughout aerospace and the Air and Space Forces.

Congratulations again to EAA, EAA Chapter 1116, and every volunteer who has helped make Mission 2.5 such a remarkable success. We look forward to working together to inspire the next generation.

Thank You!

Exploring AFA.org – A Resource Every Member Should Know

August 13, 2026August 13, 2026 / Ian L. Sitren / Leave a comment

The Air & Space Forces Association national website at AFA.org is much more than a place to renew your membership or read the latest news. It is an extensive resource that reflects the many ways AFA supports our Airmen, Guardians, families, veterans, aerospace education, and our nation’s future.

As you can see in this video, simply moving through the menus reveals just how much information is available. Every section opens the door to even more resources, from advocacy and aerospace education to CyberPatriot, professional development, scholarships, conferences, publications, legislative issues, and support for the Total Air Force and Space Force.

Whether you’ve been an AFA member for years or recently joined our Chapter, I encourage you to spend some time exploring AFA.org. You may be surprised by the depth of information, programs, and opportunities available to every member.

It is truly one of the best resources available for learning more about the Air & Space Forces Association and everything it does to support our mission.

Thanks!

Air Commandos Lunch Tomorrow – Join Us and Check Out Something New

August 11, 2026 / Ian L. Sitren / Leave a comment

Just a reminder that our Air Commandos Lunch is tomorrow, Wednesday, August 12, at 11:30 a.m. at ROC’s Firehouse Grille, 36891 Cook Street in Palm Desert.

Tomorrow we’ll also be trying something new. We’ll be testing out our new 65-inch big screen in the back room, along with external speakers, and we’ll have aviation videos playing to do it. It’s another step toward making our gatherings even more enjoyable, so come check it out with us and have some fun.

The lunches are informal, friendly, and have no agenda. They’re simply a great opportunity to enjoy good food, good conversation, and the company of fellow members and guests. There is no charge to attend. Just pay for your own lunch and beverage. Whether you’re a long-time member, a veteran, currently serving, or simply interested in aviation, military history, or the Air and Space Forces, we’d be glad to have you join us.

If this will be your first time attending, you’re especially welcome.

We look forward to seeing you tomorrow!

If you’d like to learn how these lunches began and why they have become such a popular tradition for us, read The Story Behind Our Air Commandos Lunch.

Thanks!

From Oshkosh to Opportunity: Inspiring the Next Generation of Aviation

July 31, 2026 / Ian L. Sitren / Leave a comment

What does a remarkable airplane at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh have to do with the future of AFA Palm Springs? More than you might think.

As another record-breaking EAA AirVenture Oshkosh comes to a close, more than 734,000 people attended the world’s largest annual aviation gathering. More than 10,000 aircraft, 1,600 forums and workshops, 1,021 exhibitors, 6,000 volunteers, and an estimated $257 million economic impact made AirVenture 2026 another extraordinary success. From vintage aircraft and warbirds to military aviation, homebuilt airplanes, aerospace innovation, education, and the future of flight, Oshkosh remains unlike any other aviation event in the world.

Among the aircraft attracting attention this year was the remarkable Gee Bee QED, a modern recreation of the famous 1934 cross-country racer. It is an extraordinary aircraft, powered by a 1,425 horsepower radial engine and built as a faithful recreation of one of aviation’s most recognizable racing airplanes.

As impressive as the airplane is, the most compelling story surrounding it isn’t found in its performance specifications. It’s found in the people working around it.

In an interview at Oshkosh, Kelly Mahon, Director of Operations for the Mid America Flight Museum, explained that while preserving aviation history and honoring veterans remain central to the museum’s mission, another equally important mission is mentoring young people. High school students were invited into the restoration shop to learn, contribute, and become part of the project. One of those students later attended Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and completed engineering work that directly contributed to the aircraft.

One story stood out in particular. A mother initially became involved simply by bringing baked goods to the restoration team while her daughters participated. Her interest grew into a passion for aviation, and she eventually earned her Airframe and Powerplant mechanic certificate and became a member of the restoration team herself.

Mahon also challenged one of aviation’s most common assumptions. While much of the conversation focuses on a shortage of pilots, he argues that aviation has an equally urgent need for aircraft mechanics, technicians, engineers, and other skilled professionals who will build, maintain, and advance the aircraft of tomorrow.

His message was both simple and compelling:

“We’ve got to get them to the airport, and we’ve got to get them excited.”

Those ideas reinforce an important opportunity for AFA Palm Springs Chapter 134.

The Air & Space Forces Association has always been committed to supporting Airmen, Guardians, veterans, and aerospace education. As our Chapter continues to expand its Cyber Education initiatives, we also recognize that aviation itself remains an essential part of inspiring the next generation. Through growing relationships with organizations such as EAA Chapter 1116, Young Eagles, Civil Air Patrol, College of the Desert, local schools, and other STEM partners, we have an opportunity to introduce young people to aviation, aerospace, engineering, aircraft maintenance, cybersecurity, military service, and many of the careers that support our nation’s Air and Space Forces.

The future of aerospace depends on far more than pilots. It depends on the people who design, build, maintain, protect, and innovate the technologies that make flight possible.

Aviation has always inspired people to look beyond the horizon. The challenge today is making sure the next generation has the opportunity to discover that same inspiration. Whether that journey leads to the cockpit, the maintenance hangar, an engineering laboratory, a cyber operations center, or military service, it begins by giving young people the chance to experience aviation firsthand.

That is why aviation outreach remains an important part of the mission of AFA Palm Springs Chapter 134.

We encourage you to watch Kelly Mahon’s interview. The Gee Bee QED is a remarkable airplane, but the ideas behind the project may be even more inspiring.

Air Commandos Lunch Tomorrow July 29, 2026

July 28, 2026 / Ian L. Sitren / Leave a comment

Just a reminder that our Air Commandos Lunch is tomorrow, Wednesday, July 29, at 11:30 a.m. at ROC’s Firehouse Grille, 36891 Cook Street in Palm Desert.

The lunches are informal, friendly, no agenda, and a great opportunity to meet fellow members and guests over good food. There is no charge to attend. Simply pay for your own lunch and beverage. Whether you’re a long-time member, a veteran, currently serving, or simply interested in aviation, military history, and the Air and Space Forces, we would enjoy having you join us.

If this will be your first time attending, you’re especially welcome.

We hope to see you tomorrow!

If you’d like to learn how these lunches began and why they have become such a popular tradition for us, read The Story Behind Our Air Commandos Lunch. Thanks!

From Cyber to the Cockpit: AFA Palm Springs and EAA Young Eagles

July 21, 2026 / Ian L. Sitren / 4 Comments

With all of our recent discussion about Cyber Camp and our Cyber Education programs, at the last Air Commandos lunch, our member Lee Cohen asked a very insightful question: What are we doing in the area of flying, specifically introducing young people to flying?

That question actually takes us back approximately three years.

At one of our Air Commandos lunches, I brought up the idea that AFA Palm Springs should become involved with our local EAA Chapter 1116 at Thermal Airport. I already knew they were successfully operating the EAA Young Eagles program locally and flying approximately 20 to 40 or more young people each month.

For our members who may not be familiar with EAA, it is the Experimental Aircraft Association, founded in 1953, an international aviation organization with a strong grassroots network of local chapters. Its members include pilots, aircraft builders and restorers, aviation enthusiasts, and people who simply share an interest in airplanes and flying.

One of EAA’s most significant youth programs is Young Eagles.

Launched in 1992, Young Eagles was created specifically to introduce young people ages 8 through 17 to aviation by giving them a free introductory flight in an airplane. Those flights are provided through the generosity of EAA member volunteers. EAA describes the mission of the program very simply: introducing and inspiring young people in the world of aviation.

And the numbers demonstrate just how extraordinary that effort has become.

As of today, July 21, 2026, EAA Young Eagles has flown 2,500,246 young people. That number continues to grow as Young Eagles flights take place across the country.

The experience also does not necessarily end when the airplane lands. EAA provides Young Eagles with opportunities to continue exploring aviation, including free EAA student membership and access to additional learn-to-fly resources.

Now bring that forward to today.

What we first discussed approximately three years ago has developed into a growing relationship between AFA Palm Springs and EAA Chapter 1116 at Jacqueline Cochran Airport in Thermal. We are now actively working on a framework through which our two organizations can support our common interests and missions.

And there is already a very tangible connection between our organizations. Frank Brabec, President of EAA Chapter 1116, is now Vice President of AFA Palm Springs.

This is no longer simply an idea about two aviation organizations finding something they might do together. There is already a relationship, and now we are working on determining what that relationship can become.

Cyber Education introduces young people to one increasingly important part of the future of the Air and Space Forces. Young Eagles can introduce them to something much more fundamental: getting into an airplane and actually experiencing flight.

Those two things fit very naturally within what AFA Palm Springs should be doing with young people.

So Lee’s insightful question, “With everything we are doing in Cyber, what are we doing about flying?” already has the beginnings of an answer.

Something has been developing, and now AFA Palm Springs and EAA Chapter 1116 are working together to determine where we can take it next.

Thank You!

Ian L. Sitren

The Future of Cyber Education Looks Bright at AFA Palm Springs

July 18, 2026 / Ian L. Sitren / Leave a comment

Today we celebrate a successful Air & Space Forces Association Palm Springs Chapter 134 Summer Cyber Camp and an outstanding group of students who spent the week learning, working together, and developing new cybersecurity and artificial intelligence skills.

After spending time at the camp on Tuesday and returning for Graduation Day, I came away even more impressed than I expected. These are bright, motivated young people who represent exactly the kind of talent our country will need in the years ahead.

Cyber Education is one of the Air & Space Forces Association’s most important missions. Programs like this introduce students to exciting career opportunities while helping prepare the next generation of cybersecurity professionals, engineers, and technology leaders who will help protect our nation’s critical infrastructure.

This remarkable program would not exist without the dedication of Jim McFarlin, Tony Della-Moretta, and Jose Ramirez. Their vision, leadership, and countless hours of planning, teaching, and mentoring have created a program that benefits not only these students, but our entire community. They deserve our sincere thanks and recognition for what they have accomplished.

Jim, Tony, and Jose were joined by an outstanding team of instructors, guest speakers, mentors, and supporters who generously shared their time, knowledge, and expertise throughout the week. Felix Marhuenda-Donate, Patrick Jacobs, Dana Sanchez, Regina Vasquez, Jason Hoang, Thomas Chapman, Jeff Gonzalez, Frank Ceja, Captain Lauren Puseman, Mark Brenner, Glenn Miller from the office of U.S. Representative Ken Calvert, and Lucas Penon from the office of U.S. Representative Raul Ruiz each contributed to making this year’s Cyber Camp such an exceptional experience for the students.

The success of Cyber Camp is truly the result of many people working together toward a common goal. Without the dedication and involvement of this entire team, the program could not have worked as well as it did. Their combined experience and commitment created an educational opportunity that these students will carry with them long after Cyber Camp has ended.

We also extend our sincere thanks to College of the Desert for its support of Cyber Camp and for providing the outstanding facilities that helped make this program possible. Having access to the College’s Information Technology Center provided the students and instructors with a professional environment in which to learn, teach, and work together throughout the week.

The success of this year’s camp also reflects the confidence our community has placed in this effort through the generous support of organizations including the Anderson Children’s Foundation and the Morongo Band of Mission Indians. Their investment is helping create opportunities for young people that extend far beyond this one week.

As important as this year’s camp has been, we believe it is only the beginning. Our chapter is committed to continuing to build and expand our Cyber Education programs, reaching more students and creating even greater opportunities throughout the Coachella Valley. We already have ideas in development and look forward to sharing more exciting news in the near future.

Congratulations to every student who participated, thank you to the parents for their support and encouragement, and thank you to everyone who helped make this program possible. The future of Cyber Education in our chapter has never looked brighter.

Ian L. Sitren

Visit the AFA Cyber Camp This Thursday or Friday

July 15, 2026 / Ian L. Sitren / Leave a comment

I had the opportunity to spend Tuesday at our AFA Summer Cyber Camp, and I came away genuinely impressed. The facility, the instructors, and especially the students exceeded my expectations. This is a first-class program that demonstrates exactly what our Air & Space Forces Association is all about by inspiring and preparing the next generation of technology and cybersecurity professionals.

If you have a few hours available, I encourage you to stop by on Thursday or Friday and experience the camp for yourself.

Thursday, July 16 (9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.)

Students will present the AI projects they have developed throughout the week as Professor Marhuenda-Donate and Jose Ramirez return to review their work and discuss the results.

Friday, July 17 (9:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.)

Graduation Day features team cyber competitions, awards, presentations by Indio High School Information Technology instructor Mark Brenner, and the participation of parents and families. Representatives from the offices of Congressman Ken Calvert and Congressman Raul Ruiz will present Congressional Certificates to every camper before everyone celebrates with a well-earned pizza party.

The camp is located in the College of the Desert Library, in the center of the campus.

Enter the campus from Fred Waring Drive, follow the signs, park in Lot 5, and walk north past the gymnasium to the library. Please do not confuse it with the Public Library near the campus entrance. Once inside the College of the Desert Library, take the elevator to the basement level and enter the glass doors leading to the Information Technology Center.

I hope many of our members will take the opportunity to visit. Seeing these students at work, meeting the instructors, and experiencing the professionalism of this program firsthand is the best way to appreciate the impact our chapter is making in the community. It is an outstanding example of the Air & Space Forces Association mission in action, and I believe you’ll leave as impressed as I was.

I will personally be there again on Friday, and I hope to see many of you there.

Ian L. Sitren

Air Commandos Tomorrow Lunch July 15th

July 14, 2026July 13, 2026 / Ian L. Sitren / 1 Comment

Just a reminder that our Air Commandos Lunch is tomorrow, Wednesday, July 15, at 11:30 a.m. at ROC’s Firehouse Grille, 36891 Cook Street in Palm Desert.

If this will be your first time attending, you’re especially welcome.

We hope to see you tomorrow!

If you’d like to learn how these lunches began and why they have become such a popular tradition for us, read The Story Behind Our Air Commandos Lunch. Thanks!