Sky King Productions Guest Book

Sky King


Guest Book of Sky King Productions
Everybody has a right to his or her opinion, and that includes you! We welcome you to leave your comments in our public guest book, so that you may share them with other visitors. Yes, we'd like to hear from you!

Newest comments are now added at the top. Date: 19 June 2013 Comments DVD Collection Just wanted to say how much I appreciate receiving the collection - I couldn't begin to tell you the memories that it has evoked. I am a B-777 Captain for American Airlines, and there is no doubt in my mind that Sky King was one of the reasons I ever became interested in flying. Saturday mornings were simply the best, and NOTHING could pry me from the TV until afternoon had rolled around. I'm still hooked on Oreos as well.... The quality of the series is excellent, and I was delighted to pop disc one in the player after I returned from a trip to Shanghai - childhood revisited! Simpler times to be sure, but those values never go out of style. Many thanks for an excellent product, well worth every penny! Cheers......... Tony Date: 18 June 2013 Comments My Saturday Mornings Every Saturday morning as a child I would get up & watch Sky King. Now that I am 65 I remember your show with fondness. Betsy Ann Drees Date: 15 April 2013 Comments Thank You I just wanted to thank you for bringing some great memories back to life. Those were such simpler times growing up, when it seemed that everyone was friendlier, happier and it just seemed that the attitude was that we were all in it together and would help each other, keep an eye on each others children to keep them safe, do favors without even being asked. Those days are so long gone that it seems as if they must have happened in another life. I must say that I was very fortunate to have had a second period of time in my life when those old values were still in vogue within the community that I worked with, while I served as a submariner. I believe that those good times were all a result of "The Big One" and I hope we don't need to go through another world-wide war just to bring back that peace and harmony. Have a good life everyone! Rick S. Date: 31 March 2013 Comments Sammmmmm Just to say a thank you for your Site, and all the information it has...I was nuts for flying and loved the show and the ''songbird'' especially.. even though now the plots seem minuscule,,, the jest of the morals are what we sure could use more of in today's world,,, KEEP 'EM FLYING, Sam A Rice Federal Way, Washington state Date: 25 February 2013 Comments Sky and Roy I grew up with two of the best role models for kids that ever were. Sky King and Roy Rogers....God bless...I learned to fly and ride because of them. Visitor Date: 15 November 2012 Comments Memories I started watching Sky King when I was probably 4 or 5. I never missed a show, and had a small, metal Beechcraft Bonanza. I remember going outside after the show went off, and flew all afternoon. Usually, I followed the storyline of the show, searching or saving someone. I guess the impression of Sky stuck, as I became an aircraft mechanic for 42 years. I always tell people, that because of the Sky King show, it instilled an interest in aviation that never left me. I can still remember working on my first straight tail 310, and being so excited because it was the kind Sky King flew. He even came in the FBO where I worked once, but by the time I found out, he was gone. I recently had the pleasure of visiting Apple Valley, CA where I located the old Apple Valley Airport. There, on what was left of the ramp and runways, I walked on the very ground where Sky, Penny and the Songbird spent time. I photographed the mountains in the background that was always shown when the Songbird took off, or landed. I stood there for a long time, just thinking about what I'd seen as a kid, was right before my eyes. Of course the surroundings were a tad different. But,as long as I live, I'll never forget the memories and the lessons I'd learned from Sky. Honesty, character, right and wrong, and the things that would mould my life, was taught by the likes of Sky King, Roy Rogers and more. I feel very priviledged to have been raised up in that era. Kids nowdays only have a lost world, without much hope, and because of technology, they have no imagination. Believe me, I had imagination. That's what drove us kids, then. I'll always thank God for those times, and memories. Tommy M. Date: 11 November 2012 Comments SO GOOD TO SEE YOU AGAIN!!!!!!!! In reminiscing about the 1950s era of my childhood, I always mention SKY KING very fondly to friends; and Penny and Clipper, and, of course, the Song Bird! (I still remember the Lorna Doones ads, as well!) Communications being so "planet-wide" now, it is a DELIGHT to be able to look you up, and to discover your website, with so much expanded information and photos of it all!!! So *good* to see you all again, and to know that Sky King Productions is still Alive and Well!!! Grace D. Date: 11 November 2012 Comments Ah... Penny was my first crush ! what a great show to mold a young mind towards doing the right things in life....THANKS ! "Tomorrow is just one of yesterdays dreams " Robert B. Date: 21 October 2012 Comments Hello! Was just browsing the internet and thought about the series I used to watch as a child named "Sky King." Lo and behold if the official website for this series didn't come up. I'm very impressed. It was one of my favorite shows to watch on Saturday mornings. One time Penny came to our Gibson's store in Beaumont, Texas. My mom got me up there to meet Penny in person and I got myself a signed autograph. I thought she was the most beautiful person I had ever met. I was certainly star struck at 5 or 6 years old when this took place. I remember it like it was yesterday though. I have always considered that as special as Seeing Elvis in concert. Was sweet memories the show brings to mind. Special Special. Visitor Date: 16 September 2012 Comments Wow, what a blast from the past! I can remember watching the program when I was 5 years old and I knew from that moment that I wanted to be a pilot. Well, I made that happen and moved up through the ranks and because of this program my lifelong dream came to fruition. In every sense of the word, Sky King was my hero and I don't think there are near enough of those now. I am now an FAA Inspector (Operations) and I really try to instill a sense of pride to all the pilots I have dealings with. Tom Little Rock, AR Date: 31 August 2012 Comments Greetings, Sky King went off the air when I was five years old, but I remember it as my favorite TV show. About a year ago, I had an opportunity to see many of the episodes again and I was pleasantly surprised at how much I still enjoy Sky King. While the show was very entertaining, Sky King was also an exceptionally good role-model for kids. It is a great shame that today's youth haven't grown up with "Uncle Sky." A week ago, I saw a man in a car with license plates that made me think the driver could be Clipper. It turned out that it was indeed Ron Haggerthy. It was the highlight of my week and it motivated me to buy my own DVD set of Sky King, which arrived in the mail today. I am looking forward to watching Sky King again and hope to introduce members of the younger generation to Sky King, Clipper and Penny. Best wishes, RJ Manning Date: 04 August 2012 Comments I purchased the set of Sky King videos back in the spring of this year. I am enjoying these soooooo much!!! The earlier ones I did not remember (too young I guess), but they all are great stories by actors I still admire. Thank you so much for allowing me to buy this set!!! Good luck to you all! Carol Cooley Date: 22 July 2012 Comments From day 1, my mom sat me in a little chair in front of the B&W TV and I watched Sky King. I not only loved the cast and the show, but I commandeered a space at the edge of my mom's garden to make a landing strip for the Songbird, and my secret middle name (revealed here for the first time) was Penny! I always thought that if my dad would just learn to fly and get a plane, he would be exactly like Kirby Grant! 8-) You can bet I'll be getting the DVD's and reliving the adventure! "Glynes" Date: 17 July 2012 Comments Hello, I ordered your set around 2007 or 2008, and was impressed with the exceptionally high quality of each DVD—your price for this is very reasonable given the quality. I told several friends about them and all were equally satisfied with their sets—having seen it all a couple of times, I recently gave my set away. One thing I am curious about—in the very early part of the series, I definitely remember that the Bamboo Bomber was used and the phrase was “out of the blue” rather than “out of the clear blue” but the series now shows the 310 intro even with the earliest episodes—has the early intro been lost? Regards, Richard from Toronto Date: 01 July 2012 Comments Hello, This is my GUEST BOOK sign-in. ;-) I'm 60 years old and used to watch SKY KING when I was a young boy... ...and loved it... loved it so much that when I was in college, my family moved to Long Island near an airport... so I asked if I can have flying lessons and they said yes... So I earned my pilots license in 1973 and flew until the mid 1990's ... I can certainly thank The SKY KING show and cast for the early influence. I loved every minute of it... One show that stands out in my mind is when Sky landed his Songbird on an aircraft carrier. Very exciting. PS. Nice web-site. Wishing you well, Steve Steven Lance Levine, Advertising Services Creative Advertising l Branding l Graphic Design l Photography l Web Design Date: 20 June 2012 Comments I too grew up with Sky King and Roy on Saturday mornings, circa 1961, and have been an avid fan since. I became a licensed private pilot and live in Arizona now. A little trivia for you. My former wife told me that during the first run of the series, they had a contest to name Sky's airplane and that her older sister in fact won the contest with name of "Song Bird". I can't recall the prize, but this story was told to me as we watched the news broadcast of Sky's accident en route to the Challenger launch. A sad day for me as another of my heroes passed away. As other fans have said, We need some new heroes, like Sky, Roy and The Ranger! Thanks for a great site and when I've saved the pennies I'll be back! Mark Show Low, Arizona Date: 9 June 2012 Comments *I Just Ordered the Set!* FINALLY! I'll be able to watch without a huge burden of GUILT! I was raised in a religion that, tho "Christian", kept the Saturday as "Sabbath" = no TV watching on Saturday at all. So any time I could sneak a peak at Saturday morning TV on the probably 13 inch black and white TV, I would tune in Sky King! Where HAVE all the hero's gone? Hopalong Cassidy, Sky King, Lassie, Roy Rogers, Gene Autry……. and many others. All gave the children of the 50's a positive moral lesson in each episode. Today….. sadly the lessons that the kids are exposed to are the exact opposite. I can hardly wait to start the series…. Thanks for making it available restored. Joe H. Date: 19 May 2012 Comments *Kirby Grant* I'm writing more for information than to be "published" in your guest book. Yes, I grew up with Sky King, too, and I'm sure it was a big influence on getting my pilot's license. I'm a "low wing" fan and I tell everyone, "If you don't walk on the wing to get in the plane, it's not a real plane!" LOL I had always heard that Kirby married Gloria, but your website straightened that out for me. I still remember the day I heard that Kirby had been killed in a car accident. The way I heard it was that he ran into a water-filled grader-ditch in Florida, was thrown from his car (because he wasn't wearing a seat belt) and drowned in a few inches of water. Any truth in that? I can't believe a pilot like Kirby wouldn't wear a seat belt… we pilots are all about safety. On another note, I'd like to know more about your website. Are the rights owned by his relatives (and thus own the website), or did you, as some sort of business enterprise buy out the rights that Kirby had bought? Did he have any children who own those rights now? Is his wife still alive? Where does she live? Being as I'm in my 60s now, all my heroes are dead, Kirby, Roy, Gene, etc. The heroes we grew up with… taught us right from wrong, and that "right" always wins over evil. There were morals in all of those childhood shows, and we learned our lessons well. The children of today have no good heroes to look up to. Their heroes are a bunch of bullies and killers. What happened to all our heroes? They died and they were irreplaceable. The era of the good guys, the guys that taught us right from wrong and practiced it in our daily lives, is nearly over. One more generation and nobody will even know the names of Sky King, Roy Rogers, Gene Autry, Jimmy Stewart, etc. They will eventually be forgotten. Yes, their shows will still be around, but there won't be anyone left that wants to watch them. Kids today really won't watch the old black and white half-hour westerns. They think they are corny. They are incapable of learning anything from them. We took them to heart and wanted to grow up just like the heroes… and we did! Lon Lawrence Vietnam Veteran USAF Pilot Ham Radio Operator, Retired school teacher and police officer, Carlsbad, NM Date: 5 May 2102 Comments Dear friends, I recently received the SKY KING set from you! I am writing to tell you how delighted I am with these! The quality is everything you said they are, sound and visuals. I saw one last night that I remember about broke my heart about the little sick girl whose daddy had lost himself out of grief. In the end Sky brought him back just in time to save the girl's life. I never forgot that episode and now I have it again for all my life. Thank you for these, I will continue to enjoy them mightily! Sincerely, Carol Cooley Joliet, IL Date: 5 May 2102 Comments Hi, I just went out to the Chino Ca. airport to watch the war planes arrive for the big airshow this coming weekend. Before going out to the flightline, I wandered around the "Yanks" Air Museum. In the back they have a restoration shop, and I looked at various projects under restoration. Sitting in a back corner was a Cessna T-50 "Bobcat", stripped down to the ribs;- someone had obviously began restoring the various wood components, but had not touched her in a long time. I kept looking at it and finally noticed a placard on the floor underneath, which stated that that particular plane was in fact - the "Bamboo Bomber"- Kirby's first plane used in the early filming of the show, before they started using the newer model. She was just sitting there, covered in dust & cobwebs - stripped of her outer skin, quietly begging someone to put her back together. I'm thinking about volunteering....... Rick (child of the '50's) Date: 29 Dec 2009 Comments I watched Sky King on TV back in the early 1960's and really like the show. I have not seen many since then as they were not shown. I would like to get the complete series on DVD if I can. Larry Date: 30 Dec 2009 Comments Oh my gosh, I watched your show every day that it was on. I remember you, Chipper and Penny so well. I hope you are all doing well. Happy Flying. Barb Date: 31 Dec 2009 Comments I remember the series very well. I loved the 310B Cessna. All the other cowboys had horses, and Sky King had his plane. Date: 01 Jan 2010 Comments I loved this show as a kid, right along with Fury and My Friend Flicka. Date: 01 Jan 2010 Comments The Sky King series gave the babyboomers a real hero and I believe television has strayed away from this type of show. There is too much * and violence on television today and I believe this has been a factor in the detoriation of morals in society today. Date: 01 Jan 2010 Comments I watched the show every saturday morning and was very impressed with the airplanes;(especially the cessna 310B) and I am now a licensed pilot with an a&p license. I think of this series every time I see a cessna 310. Terry Date: 03 Jan 2010 Comments i love this show used to watch every saturday morning in new york as a kid Date: 03 Jan 2010 Comments Sky King was one of my all-time favorites! I would love to see it brought back. Ah, the memories..... Date: 04 Jan 2010 Comments uncle sky,where are you when the world can use you now?as probably one of the many african-american fans of the show,12 noon saturdays in ny was a ritual to watch sky king.why not a sky king movie?i would cast john travolta in the lead role,and miley cyrus as penny,and to round out the cast,why not steve howie(reba),sam elliott,billy ray cyrus and charles dutton.and no sky king project would be complete without at leasy a cameo for gloria winters and ron haggerty,till then i am saving my pennies for the box set,too bad we cannot get the reruns,HELLO TV LAND!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Date: 07 Jan 2010 Comments I spent many a Saturday watching the Adventures of Sky King, and had a huge crush on Penny, the niece. I also remembered the specific sound of the engines of the plane, named the "Song Bird" and it fit. It's music in those engines still ring in my memory as an older pilot now in my 60's. Long Live Sky King and his memory. Joel Law, Sikeston, MO Date: 09 Jan 2010 Comments It's a pleasure to find this site on the web. I fondly remember watching the series as a child, and I still enjoy watching the arc of aircraft overhead. My parents both worked for Douglas Aircraft in Long Beach, CA. My brother still works there, although it is now part of Boeing. I personally never worked with aircraft; go figure... Jerry Hajek Asheville, NC Date: 27 Sept 2010 Comments Out of all the Old Show I use to watch this one show that has never been rerun on any of the channels I grew up on this show. Is there a reason why this show has never been retelevised? Date: 30 Sept 2010 Comments Gosh, I loved Saturday mornings just because of the stories of Sky King, Fury, Rin Tin Tin and the others! I have very fond memories of watching the programs, I'd get up real early and watch "my" programs along with several cartoons! The kids these days don't know what they are missing! Hooray for the television programming of the late 50's and early 60's. I grew up in the best time in history...Thank you Mom and Dad! lol Date: 13 Oct 2010 Comments Thanks for a terrific website. I for one was always in love with Penny. Great cast including the Song Bird, wonderful stories and now wonderful memories. I met Kirby Grant at the Willowbrook Mall in New Jersey a long time ago and shortly before he died. A truly remarkable man. And an inspiration to all of the people who learned to fly. Sky King and Penny may now be gone but never forgotten and always in our hearts. Thanks for the memories. Tom from New Jersey Date: 13 Oct 2010 Comments This was my all time favorite show for several years, as long as it was in first runs, really. I remember the switch from the T-50 to the 310-B; how I lusted after that sexy new Cessna! I'm saving my pennies for the DVD set. -- Johnnie Sacramento Date: 17 Oct 2010 Comments Hi, What wonderful memories this brings back from being home as a child. It was one of my best memories of television, All three channels. It was exciting for a five and six year old to know that it must have been a great life out west, flying, ranching and more flying. It brings on a little spark of the kid in me every time I hear the opening theme. Thanks for putting this on the internet for all to see and remember. Kenny J. Jackson, TN Date: 27 Oct 2010 Comments I watch Sky King as a kid in the 60's, not like today we had a lot of hero's to choose from and he was one of mine. J. R. Montgomery Date: 28 Oct 2010 Comments I'm setting here at work remembering the good times, No the GREAT TIMES!! I was a HUGE fan an also being taught to fly by a retired Naval Aviator. I see the stuff/junk that is on TV today and wonder why people think things are so BAD. Anyway this was a Great show and brings back many Great memories. God be with us all.. Sol MEM Date: 02 Nov 2010 Comments I used to watch this show all the time. I hardly watch any TV anymore because of what is on. I wish they would put something like this on TV again. Thanks, Andy, Phoenix, AZ Date: 06 Nov 2010 Comments My husband loves the western channel and he and I talk about all the great westerns that were on TV when we were kids. So when I saw a 4-episode Sky King DVD at the library last week, I just had to check it out! I remember when my father bought our first television set in 1951 or 1952, and like many others on your guest book, I grew up watching Sky King, My Friend Flicka, Fury, Rin Tin Tin, Gene Autry, and Roy Rogers. I loved those programs. And then I visited your website and was able to read about all the Sky King characters I knew as a child. Thanks for some wonderful memories. Sandi in Sanger, California Date: 18 Nov 2010 Comments I just received my 4-episode DVD of Sky King, after which I found your website. I was saddened to read of Gloria Winters' recent death, but I'm happy to learn that she and Kirby Grant were genuinely good people who cared about the image they portrayed to kids. I grew up watching Sky King on Saturday mornings and always enjoyed it. It's nice to be able to see it again! Best wishes. Eric Date: 19 Nov 2010 Comments When I was a little girl, Sky King was my favorite show. I couldn’t wait until the show came on the air each week. I thought Sky King was so awesome and the fact that Penny could fly the plane was inspirational to me. Unfortunately, I never got my wings but I remember this show fondly. Wasn’t there a dog, too? What was his name? Karen Date: 03 Dec 2010 Comments I was working for the United Fund campaign at the Rice Hotel in the early 60s. Mr. Grant was in town for some appearances for the campaign. We entered the elevator at the same time and began talking. What a lovely man, bouncy, and full of life. I'm 70 years old and that is one of my favorite memories. Amalye Date: 05 Dec 2010 Comments What a series! I have loved airplanes as far back as I can remember, about age 5. Every Saturday I used to watch Sky King, Penny and Clipper. Sky was my hero and inspired me to pursue a career in aviation. I have now flown for over 40 years, owning my own Cessna 310 (an “L” & an “R” model). In the course of my career I got to fly a Cessna T-50 and a C-310B. There have been many airplanes that I have flown, from WWII warbirds to airliners, but my biggest thrills were in the “Sky King” airplanes. Just recently I finished building a model of a Cessna T-50. Naturally I named it “Songbird” and painted it to resemble Sky’s. What great memories that show brings back! Tom B. Date: 28 Dec 2010 Comments What wonderful memories of great years gone by. So thankful that I grew up in the 50's when t.v. shows were decent. I loved the Skyking series and couldn't wait until Sat. when they would come on. Thanks to a wonderful cast for great shows and wonderful memories. God bless them all. Jerry L. Williams-Exeter, MO Date: 06 Jan 2011 Comments Hi, I was at lunch with some friends and we started talking about old TV shows. We went all over the map, and finally ended with Sky King. I was the only one that could recall the name of the plane, Songbird. There were some really great times back then and it is so great to find your website. Those were the real heroes......not what we mess up our kids with today. Keep it alive! Thanks! Buddy Adams McKinney, Texas Date: 25 Jan 2011 Comments Sky King was my favorite show when I was a kid. I bought the DVD set some time ago & enjoyed them immensely. In those days you knew who was good & who was bad. The hero's didn't have a drug habit on the side. Of course I had a crush on "Penny". Every few months I'll watch the DVD's, a couple of shows each day. It really was a great show. Tom Date: 04 Feb 2011 Comments Sky attended the MD Telethon in GreenBay Wisconsin in 1961 and I got to meet him. I asked him "Where is Penny?" and he said, studying for exams." I so much loved that show and thus began a love affair for me with flying...culiminating with me becoming a flight surgeon for the USAFReserves for 15 years. I still get a warm fuzzy when I see a similar plan to the Songbird! Such a great role model of so many. Thanks! LtCol/Dr Tim.. Date: 22 Feb 2011 Comments I obtained my love for flying myself after watching those episodes years ago. I have been flying for over 30 years now. I even named my first child Schuyler ( I wanted it to be Sky King Pfaffe but my wife wouldn't let me) and I just discovered tonight that Sky was actually short for Schuyler!!! I got what I wanted after all!!! Thanks, Mark Pfaffe Keokuk, Iowa Date: 18 Mar 2011 Comments I too had a crush on penny, like millions of other faithful Skyking fans. I never never missed an episode. Those truly were the best of times, only to reminisce in our dream and watch DVD's of Skyking Date:** 18 Mar 2011 Comments I was a "Sky King" fan when I was a kid, and would love to see the episodes back on TV! I've been watching daily episodes of "Highway Patrol" and "Sea Hunt" on our local "this TV" (formerly "MyTV") in Columbus OH (columbus.thistv.com/). I never miss an episode (DVR records them in the very-early mornings), even though they are on their second or third time through the "rotation" here! There are "this TV" outlets throughout the US (en.wikipedia.org/wiki/This_TV). This would seem a natural outlet for broadcast (albeit on digital subchannels/cable) for the "Sky King" episodes. With all of the cable and satellite bandwidth today, there certainly is some home for "Sky King" on-the-air! (The other series I'd like to see back on the air is "Ripcord", which was part of my "holy two" programs back when I was a kid!) Jeff Maass Powell OH Date: 02 Apr 2011 Comments As kids we always watched Sky King and we would build wooden replicas of The Songbird in the back yard. Mine was made of orange crates and she was beautiful. I have many wonderful memories from Sky King. Why don't kids play like that today? Richard Date: 08 Apr 2011 Comments While growing up, on Saturday mornings,would watch all our Saturday heroes, Roy Rogers, Buffalo Bill Jr., Annie Oakley, and Sky King!!!! Those were great times,and learn great values, I use to this day. So sad that the younger generation does not have the heroes us baby boomers had. Robert Date: 10 Apr 2011 Comments Where Is Sky King When We Need Him Most? As a boy growing up during the 1950s and early 1960s, I sat glued to the (black and white) TV on Saturday mornings to watch Sky King. I loved the show, and I only came to realize many, many years later what a healthy influence the show had on my life. I eventually served as a Marine Corps officer and did indeed become a pilot. The original “Songbird” was great, but it was the thrill of watching the second “Songbird,” that beautiful Cessna 310-B, roar “out of the clear blue of the Western skies” that motivated me to eventually solo at 16. When I received my multi-engine rating, it was in a Cessna 310. I even remember telling the FAA Examiner when I completed the flight test, “just like Sky King.” He laughed... And understood. Now, in 2011, with the exception of those who serve to protect our country, it seems we have a vacuum where heroes once existed. Once upon a time we had Al Shepard, Gus Grissom, John Glenn, Deke Slayton, Scott Carpenter, Wally Schirra, Gordon Cooper... And we had Sky King. What wonderful memories, and inspiration to provide heroes once again. John P. Schreitmueller, GC, ECP President and CEO Resolute Consulting Group LLC Specialists in Executive Leadership, Work and Life Coaching and Counseling Date: 12 Apr 2011 Comments I really enjoyed watching Sky King as a kid. I've loved airplanes ever since. I've been a pilot for 32 years.....probably inspired by those Saturday morning shows. I'll never forget em. Jim J. Date: 17 Apr 2011 Comments *Sky King Memories* As a kid in the mid-1950's, we lived near the Cessna plant in Wichita, as my Dad was a sales manager for the company. The 310 had just been introduced, and he would occasionally take a demo plane, or a delivery....to Canada, Texas, Florida, etc...and often one of we children could go along with him. Although I really loved the sound of the 310 on those long trips, I never saw or rode in the original type BT-50...something I still would enjoy doing, to this day. (Actually got my private license two years ago...at age 59!) Bought a 1947 Cessna 140, to enjoy some vintage aircraft experience, too. In the 1950's, Sky King was absolutely my younger brother's, and my favorite show....although our two sisters loved the horse shows like Fury and My Friend Flicka. As others here have said before; TV programming back then was simple and straightforward, and the heros and villians maybe just a bit melodramatic....but we all seem to cherish the memories and the clear-cut values that are indeed lacking in today's "sophisticated" TV fare. Keep up the fine efforts to preserve and promote our heritage of the "Golden Age" of TV! David Jose Surgical Specialist, North Texas Area Date: 18 April 2011 Comments I watched "Uncle Sky" as a kid growing up in south Florida. Our family's house was near Lantana Airport (LNA) and I used to watch airplanes landing from our backyard. I could recognize a Cessna 310B from an early age. I took my flying lessons starting at age 15 at Palm Beach Intl. Airport (PBI) and moved out west in the mid-'70's. I now live in Phoenix, AZ and fly out of Glendale Airport (GEU) AZ. I tell my friends in Florida that it's near Sky King's Flying Crown Ranch, near Grover, Arizona. Well, each time I take off, I swear I can see it from here!! -Joe Buckley Phoenix, AZ Date: 03 May 2011 Comments *My Memories* I was Sky King's biggest fan glued to the TV every time it was on. The fifty's and sixty's were the best of times. As I approached adulthood in the seventies I always missed seeing the show on TV and wandered what ever happened to Sky King. Then one day I was doing a fund raiser for my Fire Dept in Winter Springs Florida, and who shows up to do a turkey shoot for charity,OMG Its SKY KING. I forgot what I was doing and just watched him, after a few minutes he came over to chat, I felt like that little kid again with my hero . A couple years later I had the honor of helping him during a medical call as I served on the rescue unit. I kept up with him over the years and visited him at Florida festival. I was very sad to find out about his accident in Orlando. He will always be missed, A fan and friend Skip Lazlo Date: 05 May 2011 Comments *Sky King and the Youth Ranch* Kirby Grant and my father, Rev Jack P. Lindsay were good friends, and they often flew together . . sometimes I was allowed to tag along. It was actually Dad's idea and efforts that got the SK Youth Ranch going. He knew they needed a well known name in order to promote them. Dad approached Mr. Grant about sponsoring the Youth Ranch. They had worked together on some other projects, and Mr. Grant ended up sponsoring the ranches. The first one was in Winter Springs, and it was where I kept my horses. Rachel Lindsay Date: 09 May 2011 Comments *Hi from Ken Swedroe* I remember Saturday morning TV. One of my favorite shows was Sky King. Andy and his gang, Roy Rogers, and of course, Sky King. How I miss those carefree days. Ken Swedroe Niles, Illinois, age 65 and getting younger all the time. Date: 26 May 2011 Comments I watched this show on saturday mornings growing up in Fort Worth, Texas. Sky King/Kirby Grant is the reason I got interested in flying and later became a A&P mechanic. Now at age 55 this website sure brings back some great memories. Hope everyone that was on the show is doing well. John Quattrochi Date: 09 May 2011 Comments *Guestbook Story* It was around 1958 or 1959 and Sky King and Penny were scheduled to be at the Fox Theater in downtown Fresno, California to meet their fans. I was incredibly excited and had that Saturday all planned out, even getting permission from my parents as I was only eight or nine at the time. Imagine my disappointment when I became ill with a very severe ear infection, affecting both ears, and was required by the Doctor to be hospitalized at the Valley Children’s Hospital for twice or three times per day treatments in the surgery. On top of everything else to do with Sky King, I had an incredible crush on Penny. Well, on Friday night I was having my dinner of BBQ beef sandwich, chips and milk when a knock on my room door occurred. The floor nurse, with her starched white uniform and very stiff nurse’s hat, entered saying “…and here is Dwayne, one of our best patients.” I looked up to see Sky King and Penny coming into my room and right up to my bed! They chatted with me for a while and introduced themselves then Sky King shook my hand and Penny gave me a kiss on the right cheek. At that time, I knew I was in LOVE! I don’t think I washed that cheek for at least a week (mom had something to say about that). I never even finished my sandwich, and for me in those days that was saying something. We all remember and owe a lot to Sky King. In my case it is a love for flying, aircraft and ranching. I did go on to fly, though never professionally and have not gotten into ranching; yet I am still enthralled by it. I also echo some of the other comments regarding how great TV was in those days. I sure miss things like those wonderful shows such as Sky King and I am sorry to see the way our values as a society have changed; primarily for the worse. Thank you for the wonderful web site and the great memories it evokes. Dwayne Taaffe Date: 14 July 2011 Comments I remember watching the tv series every Saturday morning at my grandparents house on a black and white tv with rabbit ears. It has been along time since I have seen it since it is not on reruns. I have not seen it on DVD. I am happy to have found your site. David Witter Date: 19 July 2011 Comments *Airplanes* It seemed to me that the first airplane worked better for ease of motion than the newer plane. I enjoyed watching the program. I don't think I missed an episode. Harry Date: 23 July 2011 Comments I really love watching the show every Saturday morning with my 4 sister. I really miss shows like that. We will never have TV like that anymore and that is really sad. It makes me long for the good ol days. Vinder Date: 13 August 2011 Comments What a terrific show this was and just think of how many future pilots were inspired by this Saturday morning event. I was one than eventually earned my private certificate because of the love of airplanes that began with the show. How many times did the pilots go out and practice steep turns and thought about the opening sequence of the show? I bet countless of us have. I had just ran across this web-site and had to add my 2 cents worth. Thanks for a great show. Mark High Point N.C. Date: 17 August 2011 Comments *The Circus* It was 1971 or 1972 in Port Angeles Washington. The circus came to town and set up in the field right in front of my Aunt and Uncles home. My cousin and I went down and asked if we could work for them in exchange for tickets for the family to see the show. The main attraction was SKY KING! As a boy I never missed an episode on Television. I tell you it was a real treat.I am 60 now,and I still remember him walking out with the spotlight on him. He gave a fine performance, so good that I can still remember it like it was yesterday. He was my hero and I always wanted to grow up to be just like the character he played in the series. I know there is a big difference between reality and television. But his show shaped many minds of kids my age, giving them a study of what is right and what is wrong. It was one of the highlights of my growing up. Thanks for keeping the memory alive!! Tommy D. Date: 27 August 2011 Comments Growing up in upstate NY, I watched Sky King every Saturday morning during the early 60's right along with Lassie and Captain Kangaroo. I loved Sky King, Chipper, and Penny!! Sure wish shows were like that now! Thanks for the memories! Mikki Hickman Date: 29 August 2011 Comments When I was a kid.... I watched two shows. Sky King & Roy Rogers. Both shows exemplified the American spirit and provided great inspiration for me as a young kid. From the show I grew to love aviation. Later in life I joined the army and served in the Army Air Corp in helicopters. Many times I remember certain episodes even today. Recently I found your web site and felt compelled to write and tell you how your show inspired me. Thank you very much and best wishes. Michael Walters Date: 02 September 2011 Comments Hi , Enjoy my cd set and your site, what great memories !! Wish a remake of the series was possible. My best to all the cast and their families. Sincerely, Mark Porcaro Date: 02 October 2011 Comments *Sky King's Granddaughter* It's so nice to see all these great comments about my grandfather! I never got to meet him because he died 10 years before I was bored but my Dad always tells me how I'm a lot like him and he would have liked me. Thanks to the owners of this site for all the great stuff that you've put on here, Sky King's (Kirby Grant III's) Granddaughter, Kylie Date: 09 October 2011 Comments I watched the Sky King show back in the 50s I was around 5 or 6 years old. Couldn’t wait for it to come on!! We need more shows like that on TV now for the kids. One of the best shows on TV when I was a kid!! On our Black & White TV!! The Good Old Days!!!! Even after they stop filming they run it over and over. I remember seeing it when I was in high school. Just as good then. I like the old B & W shows. I'm 63 now and watch the Andy Griffith show every day at 5:30. You know what's going to happen but still laugh. J.C. Richardson III / Danville VA. Date: 18 October 2011 Comments Hi, don't have much time to search the web, but I do like to read. Got the December issue of Cowboys and Indians magazine, and I was pleasantly surprised to see "Sky." I spent every week in front of the little tv watching Sky King and my other "cowboy" favorites like Wild Bill, Poncho and Cisco, Annie Oakley, The Lone Ranger, Gene and of course Roy who also has a large spread in the Cowboys and Indians magazine for his 100th birthday. Check it out, if you haven't already seen the December issue. It is online in parts, and also on the newsstand and by subscription. Kathy Date: 28 October 2011 Comments I can recall as a child sitting in front of the old Black & White Magnavox TV with the tin foil on the rabbit ears watching Sky King on Saturday mornings. I dreamed of flight so much that I eventually went on to get my pilots license and owned a couple of airplanes. I have quite a few hours in a C340, but always look fondly at the C310's on the ramps whenever I see one. It reminds me of the Songbird and why I came to find so much happiness in the sky. Thanks for keeping the memory of this wonderful show alive. Thomas Wilson Date: 23 November 2011 Comments *Sad to see it go off....* When I was a kid, I watched every episode I could from 1955 to 1959. 1955 is when we got our first TV. I was only 6 years old but remember it well. I was devastated when it went of the air because I was in love with Penny!!! Many happy hours of GOOD entertainment for us... Thanks ya'll, David Miller Date: 24 November 2011 Comments *a long time fan* I was a very, very small child when Sky King aired, but I remember it so well. My wish is that it would return to the airways on Encore westerns channel. Is there any chance it will? Brenda Date: 05 December 2011 Comments I am so glad to see a site for sky king. As a kid I watched sky king all the time, and it got me interested into avation. I went into the Navy and became an aircraft mec. and took flying lessons. I have bought to sky king dvds. 1 sky king classic series 2 sky king & ramar of the jungle. I hope more will come out. Thank You Ralph H Leidy Date: 25 December 2011 Comments *Mandeville, la skyking* The show inspired me so much as soon as i was old enough to fly i was flying i took my hole check that i earned from winn dixie food store i was a bag boy and every sunday i flew and i did not stop until i got every rating both fix and rotor and instructor in both 10 dollars solo 14 dollars duel i bet if skyking was around today he would flying over wall street rounding up all the banksters just wish i could have thanked skyking himself i guess penny will do and yes i have a cessna 320d same plane a little longer. Commander industries air and ground --- Billy Date: 14 January 2012 Comments "Out of the blue of the western skies...." I too, like many a "Boomer", grew up with Sky and Penny. We all loved the show and watching some old episodes recently am still surprised how exciting it was, especially the flying episodes. Many a youngster in the 50s and 60s went into aviation because of Sky. Thanks for this site! And thanks for the memories! "...and now....Sky King." (Who was that announcer?) Scott from WA state Date: 14 January 2012 Comments Just was browsing your site, and it brought back a million memories. I used to watch your show regularly, and all I wanted to do was fly. I ended up becoming an Army helicopter pilot, and spent thirty years flying. After retirement I bought a Cessna 182, but always remember Songbird. Thanks for getting me started on my passion. Sent from my iPad John Date: 17 January 2012 Comments *Songbird* Sky King was my favorite show as a kid in the 50’s. I loved the Cessna 310B. But, since the show was in black and white, I always wondered what the actual color of “Songbird” was. I’ve found, on the internet, wooden models of “Songbird” in brownish yellow gold colors. Is that accurate? If not, what are the real colors? Would love to know. Ron and Gloria Carbondale, Illinois Date: 17 January 2012 Comments *Skyking lives* After reading the other comments from a lot of great old-timers I wanted to let them know that "Sky King" in another form, is still alive and carrying on some of the old tradition. I am an FAA inspector with oversight over a small airlines "Sky King, Inc." that operates out of Lakeland, FL. They fly B-737 aircraft up and down the eastern seaboard as well as the southern region. The call sign for their aircraft "Songbird". The original owner, Greg Luckenbil from Sacramento, CA, had a special place in his heart for "Sky King" and was proud to operate under that name. Yes, "Sky King" continues, " from out of the clear blue ". Just thought I'd pass that on. James D. Brooks PMI Sky King CMT Date: 30 January 2012 Comments *memories* I have lots of wonderful memories of Sky King. The airplanes he flew and tight spots with the “bad guys”. He was one of my childhood heros and I will never forget him. Allan Hardigree Date: 30 January 2012 Comments I too watched and grew up with Sky King and Sea Hunt. Born 7/12/1952. I was one of many that became a pilot because of Sky King. I got all fixed wing ratings and certificates; and flew for 27 years accident and violations free. Thanks Sky! Capt. David C. Harris Date: 13 February 2012 Comments I grew up watching Sky King and have bought some CDs of the series. In your discriptions of the Songbird there are a couple of errors. The T50 had Jacob 245 H.P. engines and much later some people upgraded to the 300 H.P.. The 310B was equiped with the 0-470 engines. The 310C was the firsit IO-470 and the 310R was the first with IO-520. I use to work for a Cessna Dealer and got my muilt-engine in a 310B & 310Q. Are there any color photos from the show available? Keep up the good work. Denny Croft Date: 13 February 2012 Comments I grew up watching sky king in Weiser, Idaho. Looked forward to sat. mornings so I could watch it. Jess R. Lopez Date: 16 February 2012 Comments I did not know there was a site for Sky King. I enjoyed it as a kid. That prompted me to get in aviation. I joined the Navy in 73 and became an aircraft mec. I also took flying lessons but ran out of money. I have 3 Sky King dvds that I enjoy very much. I will be buying more from your site. Thank You Ralph H Leidy Ps I drive trucks and busses 48 states and Canada for 27 years. Date: 18 February 2012 Comments "Songbird out" has always stuck in my head. This show made a deep impression on me. The good guy was always good, unlike today when the supposed good guy operates in the gray area. I am so thankful to have grown up when I did. Thank you for keeping these virtues alive and available to those who were born too late. Bill- Wallace, Michigan Date: 24 February 2012 Comments Ideas from this Boomer fan for Sky King: Sky King aids the then TV show Whirleybirds; Sky King is ex USAAF then USAF officer, Col rank; US Govt tasks him with some missions providing him with these planes etc: P51, P38, B25, modified Cessna 310, Songbird, P40, RAF Spitfire, B24?, F86, F84, in some secret NV base. A Sky Capt 2004 movie: Sky King fights border bandits & or fights terrorisim. Sky King Ranch is Home base & cover for his Covert Ops for US Govt. Think Commando Cody, Roy Rodgers, Flash Gordon, Blackhawk -DC Comics in one. Sky King Ranch facilities: Ranch house, Stables, trails, BBQ area, Camping area, Garages, Storage, Hidden acess to Underground base, Hangers, hidden Radar array, Adobe "city" from local tribe, Comm Center, gun lockers in the Main House, access to underground area. Sky King Ranch: NV NM AZ UT. Imagine Sky King & The Rocketeer, Commando Cody, Sky Capt rolled into 1. Memories of a Boomer fan. Sky King Missions in 50s: Deter No Korean spies from stealing US jets, deter Mexican border bandits, aid FBI in some cases, PR Flying for some inner city kids. Fight mutant monsters: 50s movies then be a diplomat to some E Bloc minister to the US in AZ, etc. Combo: Spy, mercenary, diplomat, businessman in one. Stephen Russell Date: 29 February 2012 Comments *Which episode?* I believe that there is a Sky King episode which involves a Japanese or Chinese parchment. Sky King only knows one of the words or characters and forces a character to read by saying that he only knows one of the words but if he doesn't here it, its curtains for the character. Which episode is that? David K. Rudov, Esq. Date: 29 February 2012 Comments *My favorite TV show* HOWDY FOLKS!! I was searching for a name for our aerial photography business when I typed in" skyking". What a great find!! I'm glad you have the website as you have done a great job! Due to some unforeseen circumstances we let our web site expire and did not renew our domain name. We were thinking of changing the name to be more keyworded towards aerial photography, so we didn't think of the consequences of not renewing. We spent over four years knocking on doors and promoting the name of our business including creating a line of aerial postcards that have the Klaass Image name on them! I am so embarrassed and when I read of the trouble you are having with theft, I can seriously sympathize with your plight. It seems sometimes when it rains it pours, thank the good Lord that I can choose to look on the bright side of things. Sky King was my favorite show!!! It more than likely planted the seed of my love to fly and have a business doing aerial photography. We are directing our customers to face-book at the present time and our kivip site. I will put in some prayers that your attorneys are successful! -Johann "like" us on Facebook @ Klaass Images and visit our web site @ kivip.webs.com Date: 02 March 2012 Comments *Comments Regarding Kirby Grant* I was delighted to discover that a website had been set up for Sky King, one of my all time favorite television series. I was also saddened to read about his tragic death. Kirby Grant played a small, but significant role in my life when I was just a 16-year old girl growing up in a small, isolated mining town in southern California. I was fortunate enough to win the Queen Scheherazade contest in 1967 that was put on each year by the Indio National Date Festival. Unknown to me at the time of the contest, Kirby Grant was one of the judges. There were beautiful, intelligent and charming girls from all the different counties there vying for the crown and I didn't think I had a snowball's chance in Hades of ever winning the contest, so I spoke from my heart when asked questions during the interviewing part of the contest about what I liked to do when I wasn't in school. I told the audience that I liked to go looking for old gold and silver mines around the desert where we lived and loved hunting with my dad and shooting rattlesnakes and no, I did not like dates. I heard this tremendous deep guffaw and laughter coming from beyond the stage to see much to my chagrin that it was coming from Mr. Grant. His laugh was infectious, and I joined in, and then the entire audience started laughing. I thought for sure I had sealed my fate for not winning the crown that day with my answers. Well, the rest is history, or so they say. During the run of the Date Festival that February, my court and I had the pleasure of having lunch with Mr. Grant on the fair grounds. I was thrilled beyond words that not only that I was sitting next to him, but having pictures taken with him as well. I also discovered that afternoon that just like the character he played on his TV series, he was funny, kind, wise, gracious and just everything that I'd imagined one of my heroes to be. I'm sure his family has heard all this before, but thought that they might like to hear it once more from someone whose life was touched for the briefest of moments by someone who genuinely cared about the girl who wore the crown that year. Cynthia Scott Date: 04 March 2012 Comments *Sky King Fan* Hi y'all, ... As a young boy, I loved to watch the Sky King episodes. Unfortunately, we did not own a television when the original series was shown during the 1950's and 60's. I believe the first time I actually had the pleasure of watching Sky King was when we moved briefly, from Texas to Illinois. In Illinois, I had to opportunity to watch some of the episodes and became hooked to the hopes and dreams of learning someday to become a pilot. Well into my later years, I finally had the opportunity to learn to fly. In 2004, I became a certified private pilot! I recently learned that my grandfather was a member of the Army glider corp during WWII. I always knew that I wanted to fly for some unknown reason, but when I heard of my grandfather's military service as a glider troop member, I instantly knew that flying was in my blood. I will never forget the day I first took to the skies with a private pilot when I was a young boy. The pilot of a single engine Piper gave me and a friend of mine a ride from McAllen, TX to the South Padre Island on a beautiful clear day after we finished a summer job for him at his home. The pilot was so pleased with our work that he rewarded us with a flight that will always be etched in my memory. For those out there that think that the skies are beyond your reach, all I can say is "If I can do it, so can you!" So, if you have the opportunity to take to the skies whether you are a pilot or passenger, .... Go for it! Thank you "Sky" for the inspiration and desire to become a "Flyer". You and the rest of the Sky King cast will always be in my memories. God bless you. Rick Pruneda, Oklahoma Date: 05 March 2012 Comments *My Memories of Kirby Grant* In 1979, I left Walt Disney World to become the Magician at the "Stars Hall of Fame" wax museum in Orlando, Florida. Next door was "Florida Festival" a collection of unique shops and restaurants under a large tent. Kirby Grant was the Host of Florida Festival and greeted the crowds that came there. I ate lunch at Florida Festival almost everyday and during my visits I got to know Mr. Grant. He was a very nice man and a very avid flyer. We talked about the Sky King show and his love of flying. He was everything you would have expected him to be. One of my fondest memories of my time as a performer in Florida was getting to know "Sky King". Terry Morgan Date: 08 March 2012 Comments *Greetings* I want to thank everyone involved in the production and broadcast of this show. Even as a kid, I appreciated that Sky King was a better show, with more believable, three-dimensional characters and stories than most. Surrounded by the typical crap of the era, Sky King stood out even brighter. My Dad was Air Force, so we always lived near the bases. I've always loved airplanes, and the sound of aircraft engines. It's the sound of freedom. Of course, I especially appreciate the sound of a properly round piston engine, or the warm hum of a 310. I learned to fly early in my life, due to my father's influence and that of Sky King, and even today, in my sixties, flying's still the same joy that it was the very first time I took off to solo. Kids today certainly could benefit from a similar influence as I had with Sky King. Thanks again to all that made that show, made it possible, made it so good. Why isn't some network replaying these today? -hb Date: 16 March 2012 Comments *Sky King, my absolute hero* I don't believe I missed a single episode as a child. What a profound impact this show had on my life...and my career as an airline pilot. I love fly the 310...because of Kirby Grant. I had no idea he lived in my area until after his tragic death. I would have loved to have met him. I'll look forward to buying the entire set of DVDs. And yes. I DID have a crush on Penny! Rick Ferrin St. Cloud FL Date: 17 March 2012 Comments My sister and I too watched your tv program when we were growing up. Sure wish "SKY KING" could be put back on tv. Like on RURAL TV on Dish. They have Roy Rogers and Tex Ritter there and it would be nice to see this show join them. Thank you for the great memories. Charles P Date: 08 April 2012 Comments I looked forward to Saturday mornings and my brother and I would be captured by Sky King. I'd sit through the series again, I would only wish for my grandkids to have the opportunity and interest to sit through the series too. BLots of deep down life lessons to be learned. Have a nice day, Les Mignerey Durango CO/Houston TX Date: 16 April 2012 Comments *Thanks!* What pleasant memories! What could be better than a cowboy with an airplane who catches the bad guys? My friends and I loved this show. Thanks for the webpage. Ross Malone Union, Missouri Date: 17 April 2012 Comments *Memories of the Show* I saw Kirby Grant and Gloria Winters in November of 1958 at the annual Fireman’s Championship Rodeo in my hometown of St. Louis. It was a most memorable occasion. After the rodeo, “Sky King” and “Penny” were out in the lobby signing autographs. I got to talk to Gloria very briefly. Truly, she had a sweet and pleasant smile. It’s sad that both of them now are deceased. I will forever have fond memories of them and the show. To Kirby and Gloria, I say, “Thanks for the memories!” Philip in Branson, Missouri Copyright © 2012 by Sky King Productions. All rights reserved. Revised: 06/20/13 01:51:11 -0400.