How’s the Air Out There?

By Christine Stoner

Read this editor's letter calling for stories of achievement and connection from Gas Engine Magazine readers.

Summer De Souza

“This is a picture of my dad, Albie Clements, and cousin, Michael Habekost, at the Martha’s Vineyard Ag Fair engine show in October of 2011.” — Summer De Souza via email

Over the past year, I’ve worked on Gas Engine Magazine from the isolation of my home. I listen to the occasional train or combine while I type, and I have two cats fighting to share my chair as my tiny dog taps back and forth in a hypnotic motion on the wooden floor. I search up YouTube engine videos in my downtime to familiarize myself with the unknown. Of course, I would prefer first-person encounters and explanations, but the virus has put those real time interactions on hold. I’m sure you can all relate.

Now that summer is in full swing, I hope this issue finds you safely re-entering society and making face-to-face connections the way you did pre-pandemic. I cannot wait to be in the mix, escape the judgmental and watchful glares of my cats, and become immersed in the full, fuel-scented version of the gas engine scene.

In the meantime, I have been fortunate to hear some excellent readers’ stories, via letter and telephone, and have come to the conclusion that every engine has a story. I’d like to put together a piece featuring your gas-fueled tales.
For example, I spoke with a man who attributes his birth to the gas engine hobby. Intrigued? You should be. More on this in a future issue. Others have shared their fascinating stories of family and friends helping them to accomplish the seemingly unachievable. I’m sure many of you have something remarkable to speak of regarding your gas engine endeavors. Write me and share your experiences.

I want to pass on your stories of achievement and connection. Tell me about how you found your diamond in the rough. Has an engine been handed down through your family tree since it was purchased new? Regale me with tales of watching your grandfather turn a wrench or how you taught your child the basics of engine maintenance. Did you meet your spouse or your best friend at a power show? Did someone help you find that much needed part or coveted engine? Send a letter of thanks or praise and I’ll publish it for all to read.

What power shows and events have you attended this summer? Are you getting your engines out into the fresh air to share the sights and sounds with other enthusiasts? As you dip your toe back into the pool of life, snap some photos and send them my way. Let’s live vicariously through one another. Email works best, but if you prefer snail-mail, send letters and photos to the address in the column to the right.
Until next issue,

Christine Stoner
editor@gasenginemagazine.com