A typical “Valley Gal” ….she ain’t!

Darlene Rudisill is on her way back to what will soon be her new home in Moose Pass, Alaska.

Darlene, a native of San Gariel Valley is on her way back to Alaska in what once was her Grandfather’s plane. The valleys she loves are to be found all over our biggest state and she says the beauty of Alaska is overwhelming.

Rudisill, a well-known flight instructor who lived in San Marino and instructed at El Monte airport is flying to Alaska in the 64-year-old airplane. She originally learned to fly in the 1946 Luscombe 35 years ago.

Darlene began the restoration of the plane in 1991, three years after her Grandfather’s death and it has been a labor of love.  The trip will not be an attempt at a speed record as the plane will be lucky to average 65 mph.

There are many emergency stops along the way, however.  They used to be called “The Al/Can Highway.”

Rudisill has flown and taught in everything from the Luscombe to Lear Jets says her good Seal Beach friends Jerry and Janet Rootlieb, where recently visited.  (Jerry flies a piper cub that is older than the Luscomb.)

For the complete story and photos go to: http://www.mercurynews.com/california/ci_15081983?nclick_check=1