AIR STUNTS BIG DRAW FOR SHOW

Barrel rolls, nose dives and loopty-loos were only a few of the aerobatic feats being performed at the 1999 Cape Girardeau Regional Air Festival Friday.

Pilots practiced stunts and set up displays in preparation air show activities, which begin today at Cape Regional Airport.

The event, which is being held to honor American military veterans, officially opened Friday night with a USO Hangar Dance in the old Jerry Lipps hangar.

Aviation enthusiast Jim Kerber was one of a handful of on-lookers catching a sneak preview of the show.

"I think people are just attracted because of the awesome maneuvers the pilots do," he said.

Kerber, who is working to receive a private pilot's license, said the air show would give him a chance to learn from seasoned pilots.

"I try to talk to the pilots and try to establish a personal rapport," he said. "I just like to hear their stories, especially the ones who are ex-military pilots."

Vlado Lenoch also likes speaking with military veterans, but for a different reason. Lenoch is a pilot who enters his vintage Mustang in some 10 air shows nationally each year.

"In order to fly it you really have to get into the aviation aspect of it first, then meet the guys who flew them and get their history," said Lenoch, a commercial real estate agent by trade. "They're very proud of what they've done and are eager to tell me about it."

Lenoch, a former commercial pilot, said veterans also want to demonstrate their knowledge to their family and friends.

"The biggest joy they get is bringing their relatives and friends and showing what they did," he said. "You know right away without even talking to them they're veterans."

Despite the attraction for veterans, Lenoch said air shows also are a major attraction for children and others. "Kids just love it because they make so much noise and it's scary to hear," he said.

Kerber said his interest in aircraft developed at a young age.

"It was just something I've never gotten out of my system," he said. "I personally come because I have this insatiable appetite for aviation."

More than 30 aircraft will be on display throughout the weekend. Several reenactments are scheduled, including a Vietnam pilot rescue with full pyrotechnics.

A jet-propelled pickup truck will be featured during the air show. Thrill-seekers also may opt for a helicopter tour or plane ride.

The gates will open at 10 a.m. each day, with acrobatic flying to begin at 2 p.m.

Tickets for the show are $7 for adults and $4 for children ages 7-12. Children 6 and younger may attend the event at no charge.