In Greensburg

Ian Crane, right, talks to Discovery Channel producer Mary Wallace.

It’s been a big day for our group.

A representative of the Discovery Channel approached us this afternoon while we had stopped on our bus tour at the Big Well. She asked us if we’d be willing to let her production crew follow us to do a story on us doing stories on Greensburg.

I’ve never seen so many TV smiles among our group. Of course, we said yes. How can we pass up national television? We’ll see if they show up. A higher-level editor might nix the plan.

The Discovery Channel has been in Greensburg for several months, working on a series about Greensburg that will start airing in June on the new network, Planet Green. Check your TV schedules.

Our second big accomplishment: Two of the students — Ian Crane and Dana Dinkel — got a helicopter ride with pilot Robert Ellis of Haviland. Ian is shooting video, and Dana took her digital camera. She’ll also write a story about what they see of Greensburg from the air.

I met Robert, a lifelong Haviland resident and city council member, this morning during coffee at the hardware store. He’s a member of the Experimental Aircraft Association and takes part in the Young Eagle Program, giving rides to young people. He has earned his 400 patch, which recognizes him for 400 rides.

Since 1970, Robert has taught most aspiring pilots in Kiowa County how to fly. When he’s not up in the air, he drives a school bus and substitute teaches.

Later this week, Robert and his wife are heading to Colorado for the summer. This evening, though, he’s providing two students a unique perspective of Greensburg.

Ian Crane, front, and Dana Dinkel prepare to take off with pilot Robert Ellis.