Valencia Resident Praises Column on Hockey Memories

Nancy Fairbanks thanks Signal editor Tim Whyte for his reflections on family, tragedy, and the unsung heroes of aviation.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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In a letter to the editor, Valencia resident Nancy Fairbanks expressed deep appreciation for a recent column by Signal editor Tim Whyte that reflected on the cherished memories of youth hockey, the bonds formed between families, and the quiet heroism of a pilot who safely landed a plane in difficult conditions. Fairbanks, a former Marine's wife, was particularly struck by Whyte's description of the pilot's skill, discipline, and calm under pressure.

Why it matters

The column resonated with Fairbanks as a reminder to pause and appreciate the people and moments that matter most, even in the face of tragedy. Her letter highlights how Whyte's reflections on the everyday memories of youth sports and the unsung heroes of aviation struck a chord with readers in the local community.

The details

In his column, Whyte recounted memories of road trips and hockey tournaments with his children, and a harrowing experience when the plane they were traveling on had to make an emergency landing due to mechanical issues. Fairbanks was especially moved by Whyte's description of the pilot, a former military aviator, who safely landed the plane despite the challenging conditions.

  • The column Fairbanks referenced was published on January 31, 2026.
  • Fairbanks' letter to the editor was published on February 11, 2026.

The players

Tim Whyte

The editor of the Signal newspaper who wrote the column that inspired Fairbanks' letter.

Nancy Fairbanks

A Valencia resident and former Marine's wife who wrote the letter to the editor praising Whyte's column.

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What they’re saying

“His memories — especially of road trips, hockey families, and the quiet bonds formed along the way — were deeply moving.”

— Nancy Fairbanks (signalscv.com)

“Yes, they really are 'bad asses.' The skill, discipline and calm required to perform under that kind of pressure is extraordinary.”

— Nancy Fairbanks (signalscv.com)

The takeaway

Whyte's column struck a chord with readers like Fairbanks by capturing the cherished memories and unsung heroes that are often overlooked, reminding us to pause and appreciate the people and moments that matter most, even in the face of tragedy.