A “rhumb line” is defined by Dictionary. com as “an imaginary line on the earth’s surface cutting all meridians at the same angle, used as the standard method of plotting a ship’s course on a chart.” Marcotte added that great circle routes require constant changes in heading. “They are most useful beyond the equatorial regions and for distances greater than several hundred miles,” he explained. “Longdistance air traffic uses great circle routes routinely, saving time and fuel. Navigational radio signals also follow great circle paths.” By this point in his career, Marcotte said he is extremely familiar and comfortable with the flights to China and Sydney, Australia. Of the two, the journey to China is “kind a piece of cake,” he said. How so? Just like passengers experience jet lag on those international flights, pilots feel the same effects, Marcotte said. On the flights to China, he will leave Los Angeles at 10 a.m. and get back at 4 p.m. on the third day. “It’s easier on your body clock,” he said. On the flight to Sydney, conversely, Marcotte will leave at 11 a.m. and arrive in the morning, and then leave at 4 p.m. the next day and return at 7 a.m. “You get beat up on those trips,” Marcotte added. Marcotte is now at the point in his life where he’s pondering the next step, after nearly 40 years as a pilot. What would he like to do? “Ultimately I’d love to retire in Yankton,” he said. “It’s such a nice town.” Marcotte said he is rather familiar with the Yankton area: His father (now deceased) lived in Yankton, as does an uncle and two cousins. “I didn’t get out there often enough in the past, but now I’m actually in the house-hunting process out there,” Marcotte said. From what he remembers about Yankton and the surrounding area, it feels more laid-back and comfortable, he added. “I remember it was such a nice area, and I fell in love with it,” Marcotte said. “Flying and working out of busy cities has worn on me. “I just miss the real USA, if you will.” And that’s what Yankton offers, he added. “It’s definitely a different vibe than where I live,” Marcotte said. “In a larger city like out here, it seems more dog-eat-dog and people maybe don’t care for each other as much. “But in Yankton, everyone cares for each other.” n s! at JoDean’ y holiday part modate all! k your Boo accom large we can Small or Certificates Gift ne ryo gift for eveist! A on your l Stop in or give us a call, 605-665-9884, and we’ll send them to you. Open Thanksgiving 10-2, Christmas Day 10-2 ned Family Ow Since 1971 2809 Broadway Ave., Yankton • 605-665-9884 • 11:00AM to 9:00PM • Open Sundays at 10:30AM HISVOICEvNOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018v9