It's never too early to start ground school for the next generation of pilots, even if they're preschoolers!

Denver-based publisher Powder Puff Pilot has announced the release of their newest book, "Claire Bear Flies to Oshkosh," just in time for parents and grandparents to share their love of aviation with the next generation of pilots at Christmas.

In her fourth aviation picture book, author Sue Hughes describes a visit a to EAA's AirVenture, "The World's Greatest Aviation Celebration," held every summer in Oshkosh, Wisc.

It follows Claire Bear as she flies to the event and performs in the world's greatest airshow.

The Claire Bear series is the brainchild of Sue Hughes - a pilot since 1996 and a current flight instructor and aviation technical writer - whose goal is to introduce the thrills and exhilaration of aviation to a new generation, especially girls.

With her latest title, Hughes describes the enormity and excitement of AirVenture, "It's difficult to convey how big this event really is, and how special it is to aviation fans," she explained.

Hughes credits illustrator Linda Terentiak, of Waterford, Mich., for really bringing the Oshkosh experience to life. The two met at Oshkosh in 2010 and later, when Hughes needed an illustrator for her next book, Terentiak rose to the top of her wish list.

"This project took longer," said Terentiak, "because the drawings were based on actual photos, and we took great pains to get them correct. It is so exciting to see it come together!"

Hughes's previous three titles have each been named by USA Book News as National Best Book finalists.

For more information or to purchase any of her publications, visit www.PowderPuffPilot.com or call toll-free at 888-801-6628.

- advertisement -

Sky Iron Chocks by Aerometal are styled after the classic all-metal chocks once common during aviation's Golden Era of the 1940's and 50's.

Aerometal International has long been associated with the comprehensive restoration, maintenance, and management of large vintage aircraft, particularly the venerable Douglas DC-3 and its derivatives.

The launch of the Sky Iron Chocks range was inspired by the discovery of an original set of all-metal chocks found in place under a lonely airframe stored in the high desert of California.

Paul Bazeley, founder and owner of Aerometal, explains that the single pair of vintage chocks generated such interest that several replica sets were made to order for Aerometal's regular clients.

The decision to produce an independent product line naturally followed.

The initial range of Sky Iron Chocks is aimed toward the private owners, collectors, museums, and FBO's with aircraft or operations based at a principal location. The chocks are of sturdy steel construction, and as such are reasonably weighty.

Aerometal is also introducing a range of lightweight aluminum chocks for maximum portability.

The sky is the limit regarding the level of customization available for your Sky Iron Chocks - from the color of the powder coat, to the name, N-number or logo of the aircraft (or operator) on the nameplate. Even a photograph can be incorporated.

This unique level of customization affords commercial clients such as FBO's further marketing and promotional opportunities. For private aviators, collectors and museums, the customized chocks offer the final Golden Era touch to the presentation or display of the aircraft.

Sky Iron Chocks are offered in three standard sizes that are compatible with most general aviation aircraft and can be ordered at www.skyironchocks.com.

The website provides easy to follow instructions to ensure that your size selection is appropriate.

Aerometal is also capable of the manufacture of "made to measure" or custom sizes if required. Whether you are a corporate flight department, a museum with a unique history and collection, an aircraft owner who enjoys unique accessories or simply an air minded individual with a passion for aviation history, a pair of "SKY IRON CHOCKS" will be a worthwhile investment this holiday season.

- advertisement -

Hank Caruso's award-winning Aerocatures(tm) Calendar for 2012 is now in its (can you believe it?) 31st year.

The new edition features 12 new caricatures of research, combat and commercial aviation and space subjects.

The color cover art bids farewell to the fantastically capable Space Shuttle fleet and the successful completion of the final Shuttle mission.

Says Caruso, "I have to confess that I have a real predilection for research and development aircraft, especially those from the 1950s and '60s.

The variety of shapes and performance envelopes that existed when funding was seemingly no object are a continual source of fascination."

Representing this experimental era are the French Nord Griffon, an ambitious turbo-ramjet concept; the gnarly Lockheed AH-56 Cheyenne attack helicopter, and Northrop's radical XB-35 flying wing.

Combat aircraft are represented by a Heinkel He-111/North American P-51 confrontation; a Curtiss P-40 flying from Pearl Harbor's Ford Island airfield; North American's pudgy FJ-1 Fury; and an F/A-18 loaded for . . . par?.

"The images in this calendar also represent various stages in my development as an artist.

Earlier Aerocatures(tm) have bolder outlines, while recent illustrations feature more elaborate shading and backgrounds.

"But regardless of the style, I hope that the humor and personality still come through."

The color centerfolds this year feature Naval Aviation's red shirt ordnance Seabirds. Red shirts are responsible for maintaining, assembling, and loading all of the formidable firepower onto the US Navy's carrier aircraft.

The other color centerfold shows a dramatic moment in the life of a Harpoon missile as it nears its unfortunate target ship.

As always the calendar includes a collection of historic aviation dates and little known facts (i.e., Godzilla's first appearance, Mothra's birthday, the first grog rations, Buzzard Day, and many, many more).

And yet the price remains at the same low price of $15.

To order go to www.aerocatures.com or write Forefeathers(tm) Enterprises, 44618 Rolling Oak Lane, Dept. PF, California, MD 20619. Please add $4 shipping and handling.

- advertisement -

After much Research and Development, Seiko has finally introduced a brand new aviator model into the market that is totally Solar Powered and never requires a battery change.

The power reserve on this model, when fully charged, is SIX months! In other words, should you put this watch in a dark area such as a safe, when you pull it out, as long as it was fully charged, the watch will come to life as soon as it is exposed to a light source up to six months later.

Also, it charges in any light source so does not need to be set out in the sun but will charge with normal wear in any lighting conditions.

The features on this model are very similar to the very popular Seiko Flight Computer which has been an industry standard for decades.

Those features are the high-quality metal band and case with the scratch resistant mineral crystal found on most Seiko watches.

Also, there is the E6B Calculator Bezel, Daily Alarm, Date Window, Dual Time feature (using the same sub dial clock used for the Alarm) and of course, a 30 Minute Chronograph.

Even though the Chrono only records 30 minutes it will continue to run for a total of six hours before stopping.

With the help of the rotating Bezel, you can easily use it to record up to the full six hours!

This new model comes in two different configurations, one is an all Stainless Steel and the other is a Gold-Tone which Seiko has the best Gold Plating found among any manufacturer which rarely shows wear or tarnishes.

The All Stainless Steel retails for $395.00 and the Gold-Tone retails for $425.00.

Both models are avail for immediate shipping from HME at a healthy discount.

They can be reached at 888-464-6660 or online where you can view and purchase at www.HMEWatch.com.

- advertisement -

The Bombshell girls hit the beach sporting hot vintage bathing suites in salute of the Navy for the all-new 2012 Bombshells Calendar.

One hundred years ago a Curtis built biplane made the first ever takeoff from a ship setting the tone for the future of Navel aviation. After the surprise attack on Pearl Harbor, the U.S. went to work.

They built Navy aircraft to repel and beat back the Japanese in famous battles like Coral Sea, Midway and finally on to Japan featuring Aircraft like the FM-2 Wildcat, F6F Hellcat, and the F4U Corsair to name a few.

Today very few of these aircraft exist and even fewer numbers actually fly.

However, Bombshells has captured these aircraft and more for you in stunning aerial photography and then added your favorite Bombshell models including Kristin, Erin, Amanda as well as new models like Alyssa, who will catch your breath with her crystal blue eyes while her long legs look amazing next to the only flying Supermarine Seafire of its kind.

Dogfights, blue exhaust flames, long legs and red lips, the curves will not disappoint in what is our hottest calendar yet!

Get yours today while supplies last at www.mybombshells.com or call 214-274-5501.

- advertisement -

Give the gift they will never forget.

This is the dream come true for those who have always wondered what it would be like to take an airplane ride in a World War II aircraft.

This is also the ride for the military veteran who always wanted to get in and take a ride again.

This is a beautiful exciting ride over one of the prettiest parts of the California Coast.

The view is magnificent, the ride is spectacular, and they get a real "feel" of what it's like to fly the aircraft.

It's 20 minutes of pure pleasure! After you have landed you are still on "cloud 9" for quite a while with a big grin thinking of all you have witnessed.

The only hard part is deciding which aircraft you want to fly in.
"
You may select from the AT6/SNJ "Advanced Trainer" from World War II and Korean War era (which has an enclosed cockpit).

Or the rider may choose the open cockpit PT-19 "Primary Trainer" of World War II for a special experience that takes you back in time like in the old movies. Or be very adventurous and take a ride in a P-51 Mustang.

This special gift ride will be taking off from Camarillo Airport in the "gold coast" of west Ventura County next to the 101 Freeway.

These memorable rides make a great gift for someone special.

Call for pricing and reservations.

The rides are tax deductible to the maximum extent of the law because were a non-profit organization.

For more information contact CAF Southern Wing, 455 Aviation Drive, Camarillo, Calif. 93010, (805) 482-0064, www.cafsocal.com.

The museum is open daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. closed on Mondays.

- advertisement -

Finally! A unique gift for all flying fans!

A fabulous new sign sure to thrill your aviation enthusiast!

The Iron Aviator provides pilots, aviation professionals and enthusiasts top quality, customized wood and wrought iron signs for purchase. Display these signs at your home, office, hangar or business for all to enjoy.

Showcase your personalized sign with your favorite aircraft for a unique and spectacular display!
Our products are made with high quality carbon steel and are powder coated for exceptional outdoor weather resistance.

Each sign is available with a customized wood panel in walnut or white oak to put your name, airplane registration number or business name, which is clear coated with McCloskey Marine Varnish for superior UV protection.

Signs feature a high-wing trainer, a low-wing trainer or a World War II trainer.

A perfect gift for your aviation fan, personalized for a lifetime of enjoyment. Imagine how impressive our wrought-iron sign will look hanging from a garage, deck, hangar, business, FBO, flying school, etc.

Your gift will be the talk of the town!

Act now for our special holiday promotion. Visit www.TheIronAviator.com. Use promotion code HOLIDAY20 at checkout for a 20% discount.

You wonÕt find these amazing pieces anywhere else in the world!

More information at www.theironaviator.com.

- advertisement -