Past Meetings
1997 - 1998

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• Bob & Maureen Rhodes
• Tom & Pam Collins
• Ken Raburn
• Al Patton
• Charlie & Sheila Connell
• Don Murphy
• Tom Garcia
• David Parrish
• Wyman Fox
• Phil Colman

The meeting was called to order at 7:26 PM by President Dennis Allen. There were 41 members and spouses present. Two new members were welcomed: Leroy Dent and Julio Arrieta. The financial report was given by the Treasurer, David Parrish, as follows: $4100.54 in the checking account and $96.00 in the kitty for a total of $4196.54. The minutes of the last meeting were accepted as printed in the November newsletter. President Dennis Allen thanked those who prepared the hamburgers and hotdogs, especially the Aerospouses. Dennis mentioned that Keith Brock wrote the story that appeared in the Millen newspaper about the Millen meeting/fly-in. Dennis also mentioned that the Bush Field airport manager is the one who arranged for the Conyers Foundation to bring its B-17 and B-24 to Bush Field.

President Allen said that the 1999 calendars were in and the cost was $7.00 each. Also he said that the dues for 1999 ($20.00) should be paid to the treasurer. Dennis asked that any who hasn't fill out a form for nominating the Top Ten EAA 172 Members for 1998.

Dennis mentioned that the Hoover bill was defeated and that members should contact their legislators so that it will be reintroduced in the next Congress.

Old Business: As planned earlier, the Christmas Party will be Saturday, December 12th. Those whose last names begin with A through M should bring a vegetable or other side dish. Those whose last names begin with N through Z should bring a dessert.

New Business: Treasurer David Parrish reported that he has the information about the certification of Repairmen for those who will be doing their own aircraft repairs on aircraft they have built. Also David said that now someone can get a modification of the operating limitations for their experimental aircraft so they can fly over high density areas. For those interested, David also has the operating manuals for a Boeing 727 (volumes 1 and 2).

President Allen said that the Pea Patch Corporation has decided that EAA 172 needs its own electrical service -- a 200 ampere one for the Clubhouse. A motion was made, seconded and passed unanimously to pay for what is needed for that electrical service.

President Allen brought up the business of the elections. He introduced Nominations Chairman Al Patton. Al said that the nominating committee had proposed the following slate:

• President: Rich Gabor
• Vice-President: Ron Netzer
• Secretary: John Magnan
• Treasurer: David Parrish
• Librarian: Joe Miles
• Young Eagles: Mark Thompson
• Flying Start: Dennis Allen
• Logistics Director: Ken Rayburn

President-elect Rich Gabor said "You don't realize what you're getting yourselves into!"

President Allen thanked all those who helped him during his past three years as President, especially the ladies [Aerospouses]. A motion was made by Wyman Fox that the meeting adjourn. It was seconded and passed unanimously. The meeting adjourned at 7:54 PM.

After the meeting the annual Board of Directors meeting was held. At that meeting, among other things, it was determined that the Fish Fry Fly-In would be Saturday, March 13, and that the Wrens Fly-In would be Friday - Sunday, May 14, 15, 16.

There was no regular meeting this month. Instead, there was a "Low country boil" meal at the Millen airport. About sixty people and twenty-four airplanes arrived by 1:00 PM at the airport. The meal was prepared by Dennis Allen and Bob Rhodes. The food consisted of shrimp, potatoes, sweet corn and all the other trimmings for a Low Country Boil. The first aircraft arrived around 10:00 AM. No regular business was transacted but Treasurer David Parrish did announce that at Boshears the Calendars and patches brought $51.00 and the People Movers brought in $393.55 for the rides and drinks sold on them. The total net proceeds from these and the food trailer was $2,658.29.

The 1998 Boshears Air Show and Fly-In will stand as one of the best ever. During the three days of the Show (September 25-27) at least 30,000 people attended and well over 100 general aviation aircraft were present. By Saturday afternoon there were four rows of GA aircraft covering the space from the auto parking down to the Warbirds area.

The meeting was called to order at 7:40 PM by President Dennis Allen. Treasurer David Parrish said that there was $1845.21 in the checking account and $139.00 in the kitty. The treasurer's report and the minutes as reported in the newsletter were accepted. There was a correction to an article in the newsletter: The Spot Landing contest at the Louisville Fly-in was won by John Lacher in his Mustang II. Dennis thanked Don Murphy and the Aerospouses for the spaghetti dinner. There were 27 members and spouses present as well as two guests. The guests were: Pat Hurkley who has a place at the Twin Lakes airpark and Rhonda Cornum. Dennis acknowledged and welcomed them. Rhonda Cornum joined EAA 172 after the meeting. She and her husband have a Kitfox. She is currently building a Rotorway Exec helicopter and recently moved to Blythe.

President Allen reminded everyone again about these events: -- The Camden Palmetto Aeroplane Classic September 12th and 13th at Camden, South Carolina. -- Bob Rhodes' fly-in on September 13th at the Rhodes' farm near Lincolnton, Georgia. -- The Boshears Fly-in September 25-27 at Daniel Field, Augusta, Georgia.

Dennis also mentioned that he and the other members have been to the hospital to visit with Earl Hildebrant since Earl's stroke a couple of weeks earlier. Earl can now walk with assistance.

Dennis asked everyone to contact congressional offices about the bill in the House (called the Hoover Bill) which will put some restraints on the FAA. Old Business: Rich Gabor reminded everyone how the volunteer part of the Boshears Air Show will work No tickets or passes will be given out ahead of time. You have to have your name on a list that will be at the volunteer's booth at the admission gate. You will sign in and receive your admission badge. The people-mover trailers will be set up so that the volunteers can work two hour shifts. Everyone who has signed up should know his assigned duties. There will be a Volunteer's Party at the Chairman's Tent starting around 7:30-8:00 PM on Saturday. New Business: Secretary John Magnan said that the Wrens Fly-In will be May 14-16 (Friday through Sunday) in 1999. Also, most likely the Fish-Fry Poker Run would be Saturday, March 13, 1999. If there are objections to the dates of either of those events let Dennis Allen know since the advertising copy has to go in by the end of October.

Program: President Allen showed a videotape featuring the Thunderbirds aerobatic team.

A motion was made and seconded to adjourn the meeting. The motion passed unanimously and the meeting adjourned at 8:15 PM.

The Georgia/Carolina Breakfast Club was held at the Louisville airport on August 30, 1998. The EAA 172 food trailer was there along with many EAA 172 members and spouses. Though a little hazy the weather was great for flying. By 9:45AM twenty-nine aircraft and sixty people had shown up. By the end of the event (11:00 AM) thirty-six aircraft and over one-hundred people were in attendance. There were numerous prizes awarded by emcee Gerald Ballard. The winner of the BALL OF INFAMY for the most unusual landing was John Collins who added his signature to the illustrious orb. The spot landing contest was won by John Lacher with his Mustang II. Gerald Ballard reminded everybody about the South Carolina Breakfast Club meeting at Woodward Field (CDN) in Camden, South Carolina, on September 13. Also he reminded everyone about the Granny Rhodes Fly-in on September 13 at the Rhodes' farm.

The meeting was called to order at 7:30 PM by President Dennis Allen. Treasurer David Parrish reported that there was $2849.54 in the checking account and $233.05 in the kitty. David said that the clubhouse termite exterminating cost around $800 and it had not yet been taken out of the treasury. The treasurer's report and the minutes as reported in the newsletter were accepted. Dennis thanked the Aerospouses for putting out the "picnic" style meal of hamburgers, hotdogs and baked beans. There were 31 members and spouses present. The three guests: Al Douglas, Katherine Douglas, and Norman Pressley were acknowledged and welcomed. Al Douglas joined EAA 172 during the meeting. He flies a Fly Baby 1A.

President Allen announced several upcoming events:

-- The South Carolina Breakfast Club Fly-in at Louisville, Georgia, on August 30. It starts around 8:00 - 8:30 AM and will go no later than 11:00 AM.

-- The Camden Palmetto Aeroplane Classic September 12th and 13th at Camden, South Carolina.

-- The Quad Cities Chapter 615 Fly-In at Muscle Shoals, Alabama (MSL), on September 12.

-- Granny Rhodes 99th Birthday Bash at the Rhodes' farm on September 13. Gerald Ballard filled everyone in on how to get there and land. All must land uphill and take off down hill. The runway is 2800 feet and "tight." The farm is located at the second set of woods before you get to the dam. Gerald said that there will be nametags and the low numbers will eat first so all should come early, not later than 1:00 PM. CLICK HERE FOR REPORT

Bob Rhodes said that the Taylorcraft will be ready to fly next month and just has to have the wings put on after being towed to Daniel Field.

New Business: Dennis said that Earl Hildebrant was starting a new project, an Europa.

John Magnan elaborated on the item in the newsletter about the Civil Air Patrol (CAP). He said that as of July 16, 1998, the CAP was pulling out of the anti-drug program. This is because as part of that program, senior CAP members were writing down tail numbers of aircraft at various airports around the country, not just on the coast. The members would then forward the lists to the FAA.

Because of the bad press caused by this activity and because the goal of the CAP was primarily to handle Aerospace Education, Youth Development and Search and Rescue, the CAP did not want to do any "activity that could be construed as adversarial to general aviation" according to its National Commander, Gen. James C. Bobick.

Dennis said that EAA (national) now has fancy, unique personalized rings for sale. These are made by Jostens and are either 10 K white or yellow gold. The prices range from $168 to $358. He passed around literature about the rings.

Dennis also said that a company, Identity Check Printers, has preprinted checks for sale. These have different pictures of airplanes on them. The company would donate $3.00 for each order of "Plane Checks" to the EAA Aviation Foundation for the Young Eagles Program. Their phone number is 773-992-1177.

Chuck Whigham, the Chairman of the Boshears Air Show discussed various things that were going to be done this year. There will be no school/Young Eagles events on the Thursday before (the 24th). The events will start Friday evening (the 25th). There will be more warbirds this year. The Corsairs will be back. On Saturday evening there will be a street dance, food etc. for the volunteers. Rich Gabor is handling the volunteer badges. --- Then Chuck said the reason he was really at the meeting was to announce the 1998 Aviator of the Year: Gerald Ballard. Gerald was speechless (for once!) but this only lasted a short time. Ballard had thought he was only asked to the meeting to talk about how to get to Bob Rhode's farm. He said "I'm really not old enough." Gerald then talked about the fact he had been fooling around with airplane stuff since 1966. He told a an amusing story about a crosscountry trip he took in the 70s.

Program: Secretary John Magnan introduced the AOPA Airport Support Network program which will have one volunteer for each airport in the country. This is an effort to keep airports open and to let pilots know how to be "good neighbors" to the people who moved in after the airport opened. John showed an AOPA video about how to land and takeoff so as to still fly safely and make as little noise as possible. He passed out information about how to become an AOPA Airport Support Network volunteer since only the Wrens airport (locally) has such a volunteer. A motion was made and seconded to adjourn the meeting.The motion passed unanimously and the meeting adjourned at 8:41 PM.

The meeting was called to order at 7:50 PM by President Dennis Allen. It was held in the air conditioned comfort of the front room of the EAA 172 Clubhouse. The minutes were accepted as written in the newsletter. Treasurer David Parrish said that there was $2835.94 in the checking account and $70 in the kitty. Dennis thanked Don Murphy for bringing out the cold cuts and watermelon earlier that afternoon. Don could not be at the meeting because his wife injured her wrist and he was with her at the hospital. Dennis also thanked the Aerospouses for setting up the cold cuts, desserts and watermelon. There were 31 members and spouses present. Dennis mentioned that Mary Carrington had passed away. She had worked at Daniel Field for forty years.

Old Business: President Allen mentioned the arrival of the chairs and some extra items that came along with them. These had been approved at the May meeting. Dennis also said that Treasurer David Parrish had sent in another $250 toward the EAA brick at the EAA Headquarters. The brick honors Tech Counselor and Newsletter Editor Al Patton. Dennis also mentioned that Secretary John Magnan would be taking over the operation of the EAA 172 Website.

After some discussion the members decided not to purchase the golf cart loaned to the club by member Keith Brock.

Tech Counselor Al Patton said that he had looked into getting professional assistance to take care of the termite problem at the clubhouse and that someone was coming out the next day (Friday).

New Business: Dennis said that Boshears was coming up in 10 weeks -- September 24th to 27th. We have to start getting ready now. Also, there was no program this month but there would be one for the August meeting..

Vice-President Ken Rayburn discussed the new communications tower being erected at the Jefferson EMC building less than half a mile from the end of the runway at the Pea Patch. He said he checked with Mike Gunn (the FAA Chief of Operations at Bush Field) and Mike knew nothing about it. Finally, after a great deal of calling around, a person at the FAA office in Atlanta told Ken that the FAA had done a survey of the area around the tower and that the "FAA does not protect private airports." A communications company is putting up the tower on EMC property for the EMC and some government agencies. The tower will be 900 feet MSL (473 feet AGL) tall. President Allen said that he flew over it in the last couple days and they are just finishing the tower foundations and preparing to erect the tower itself. He warned everyone just to be aware of it.

Bob Rhodes announced that he will be putting his T-craft together next month.

Ken Rayburn mentioned a few highlights of the trip he and Greg Connell made up into Yankee territory to get Gregs new aircraft. It seems that Yankees drive like madmen, according to Ken.

Secretary John Magnan mentioned that Young Eagle Jamail Larkin had soloed in Canada -- Jamail is only 14 years old and the Canadian age requirements are less than the American ones.

John Magnan said that the new 100 foot by 1000 foot ultralight strip is working out well at the Wrens Airport. The club members there are maintaining that two acre site. He will be working on having it included in airport directories.

A motion was made by Tom Garcia and seconded by Dennis Allen that the meeting adjourn. The motion passed unanimously and the meeting adjourned at 8:08 PM. Afterwards everyone was treated to a rainstorm, the first big rain in several weeks of drought.

The special Saturday meeting was called to order at 12:54 PM by President Dennis Allen. The minutes were accepted as written in the newsletter. Treasurer David Parrish said that there was $2871.21 in the checking account and $148 in the kitty. David said that at the Wrens Fly-In the food trailer made $513.91. The donation pots brought in $302.00, the vendors and a special donor gave $125.00 and after including all the fly-in expenses the club broke even on the fly-in. Dennis thanked Tom Collins, Tom Garcia, Gary Deariso and the Aerospouses for preparing the chicken and other foods that were going to be served after the meeting. Dennis welcomed new EAA 172 members, especially Richelle Phillips who is also an Augusta State University Flying Club member. There were 31 members present as well as 15 guests. President Allen introduced some of the guests. One of the guests, Richard McGahee, currently flies (among other aircraft) an F-18. Richard is a former member of EAA 172.

Old Business: Secretary John Magnan thanked everyone for the help given at the Wrens Fly-In. In particular he thanked Charles Barreras, Jr. and the many members of the Augusta State University Flying Club who showed up and handled the pilot registration. He also thanked those who handled the food trailer, O.B. Brown for the work he did preparing the grounds, Mark Slone for preparing the pilot packets and Vice-President Ken Rayburn and Tom Garcia for handling the air traffic. A special thanks was given to Bobby Miller who lives across the street from the airport. Bobby handled the car parking and put up fly-in signs around town.

President Allen thanked Tom Collins and Tom Garcia for the excellent work they did roasting the pig at the Wrens Fly-In.

New Business: Al Newman brought up the termite problem at the EAA 172 clubhouse. After some discussion he made a motion to spend money to treat the building. John Magnan seconded the motion and it passed unanimously. Dennis Allen asked Al Patton to get some bids and gave him the authority to do all that is necessary to take care of the termite problem.

A motion was made by John Magnan and seconded by Al Newman that the meeting adjourn. The motion passed unanimously and the meeting adjourned at 1:03 PM. Afterwards everyone ate, talked, flew and watched others fly (especially Charlie Davis in his Skybolt who thrilled onlookers with his aerobatics).

Program: There was no regular program but visitor Richard McGahee both during the meeting and afterwards answered questions about his current job piloting an F-18. He said that the radar on his aircraft can detect larger planes such as Cessnas but cannot detect smaller aircraft such as ultralights. Richard said that if he came within a few hundred feet of one (going 500 knots) he would probably "knock it out of the sky." The most harrowing experience he had with aircraft in MOAs is with an agricultural aircraft which popped up right in front of him. He had to fly under it to avoid a collision!

The meeting was called to order at 8:02 PM by President Dennis Allen. The delay from the usual time was caused by a lot of flying activities including aerobatics by Al Patton in the Cub. Also, Archie Graham had just started flying his newly acquired Pup and he said that flying it was "as much fun as he's had since he got married." The minutes were accepted as written in the newsletter. Dennis thanked the Aerospouses and others who prepared the hamburgers.

Old Business: Flyin Chairman John Magnan said that most things had been prepared and set up for the Wrens Fly-In which effectively begins during the club meeting time (Thursday evening). He said that there were nine electrical hookups outside of the hangar. These could be used for motor homes as well as the food trailer. John also reminded everyone about the change in traffic patterns for the fly-in. There would be the regular asphalt 3000 foot runway and parallel to it a 1000 foot grass strip. If landing on 29L (the asphalt runway) use a Left pattern; if landing on 29R (the grass strip) use a Right hand pattern. If landing on 11L (the grass strip) use a Left hand pattern; if landing on 11R (the asphalt runway) use a Right hand pattern. The pattern direction matches the R or L for the runway being used. The same thing applies for taking off. Tom Collins said that the pig would be ready for Friday evening food would be served between 6:00 and 8:00 PM. They would be there in the morning to start cooking the pig. John asked for more help in parking and said that the parking area would be marked off. Also, he accepted Charles Barreras, Jr.'s volunteering his Augusta State University Aviation Club members to help sign up the pilots who fly in. Charles stated that 2-5 members of the University club would be at the Wrens Fly-In.

John Magnan said that the Wrens Fly-In, contrary to what some had heard, was both Friday and Saturday. He is expecting people to fly in on Friday so they can take it easy before the public arrives on Saturday.

Al Newman reminded everyone that EAA 172 had adopted Boulineau Road for highway cleanup. Al said that whenever someone sees some trash on the road they should stop and pick it up.

New Business: A motion was made and seconded that chair covers should be purchased. These would cost $290. The motion was approved unanimously.

Don Gay, the FBO manager at the Swainsboro (Emanuel County) airport, stood up and gave a moving speech. He said it was nice to be a member of Chapter 172. He thanked all those who helped him with the problems he has had. Ken Rayburn helped him out with his Cardinal; Ben Covington helped him out with his hangar doors. Other members have been just as forthcoming in help with the first of the month Swainsboro flyins and with other things. Don said he wrote the city of Swainsboro a letter and requested they give a donation to EAA 172 for the aid it has given to the Swainsboro airport. Don then presented President Allen with a check in Ben Covington's name for $300 from the City of Swainsboro.

Keith Brock made a motion that a Low Country Boil should be held sometime at the Millen airport. After some discussion President Allen said that the exact date would be decided on at a later meeting.

Young Eagles Coordinator Wyman Fox said that they had flown 116 Young Eagles so far this year. Saturday, June 13th, would be the International Young Eagles Day at Daniel Field. Wyman said that he needed 10-15 planes and pilots to help fly the 300-500 expected Young Eagles. Several people at the meeting volunteered. Wyman also said that there would be some Young Eagles flown at the Wrens Fly-In.

President Allen said that since the next meeting was going to be a Saturday meeting and because of the Young Eagles Rally the meeting date would have to be changed to either the 6th or 20th of June. After some discussion the date of the meeting was set for Saturday, June 20th, at the Pea Patch. Also, the food would be served around noon.

The WebMaster reported that the EAA 172 Website had 2450 visits to it as of 7:00 PM this evening.

Keith Brock said that he enjoyed the friendship of the people at Sun and Fun when he had problems with his airplane. Keith also offered the use of a large electric golf cart he had. We could use it at the Wrens Fly-In and could decide if the club wanted to buy it at a reduced price.

A motion was made by John Magnan and seconded by Gary Deariso that the meeting adjourn. The motion passed unanimously and the meeting adjourned at 8:40 PM.

The meeting was called to order at 7:37 PM by President Dennis Allen. Treasurer
David Parrish presented the treasurer's report. The bank balance is currently
$3,935.15. There  is $40.70 in the kitty. The minutes of the last meeting were
accepted as printed in the newsletter. President Allen thanked Bob Rhodes and the
Aerospouses for the food and food preparation. There were 21 members and spouses
present. There were no visitors or guests. President Allen reminded everyone that they
should meet at the flagpole every day at noon while at the Sun and Fun Fly-In. Also,
for anyone flying down, the Douglas County Warbirds group was offering a free
breakfast. Dennis had the details for anyone who wanted them.

Old Business: Al Newman reminded everyone that the "Adopt A Road" signs are up
on Boulineau Road. Al asked members to pick up any trash they see on the road as
they drive to the Pea Patch.

President Allen reminded members about the  award ballot box for the special awards
to be given out during the 1998 Christmas party. During the year members should
nominate those who have most contributed to the furtherance of the Chapter's goals.
The top ten nominees would get the awards.

New Business: Rich Gabor and O.B. Brown talked about their new aircraft. Rich said
flying the Pup was easy. O.B. talked about his Challenger I.

President Allen said that there is a tentative choice for the EAA 172 Coordinator for
the Flying-Start program: Keith Robbins. Keith was not present to comment about
this.

President Allen reminded everyone that the Boshears Fly-In date  had been changed
to the last week of September. Also, the Boshears Board has ruled that EAA 172 had
to charge the same high food prices as the other vendors.

Secretary Magnan discussed the needs for the Wrens Fly-In. He said that most job
assignments had been made. Ken Rayburn would take care of flight control. O.B.
Brown and Ralph Powell would do some grass trimming around the hangar. Ken
Rayburn would also make the ultralight grass strip borders with the club's line painter.
John said that a pig would be roasted Friday evening. Tom Collins would be handling
that. The Aerospouses would take charge of the food trailer and the pricing signs.
Advertisements for the Fly-In were in Sports Aviation, on the Web in several
locations, and had been given out at many airports. Charles Barreras, Jr., the club
Webmaster,  had posted a series of Web pages about the Fly-In. Many ultralight pilots
would be coming in on Thursday evening and during the day on Friday the 15th. John
was going to do more advertising at Sun and Fun and obtain free ultralight magazines
to hand out to the pilots.

Young Eagles Coordinator Wyman Fox said that there would be a Young Eagles rally
at the Swainsboro airport on Saturday, May 2nd. This was also the date for a local
Pine Tree Festival and Don Gay, the FBO,  said he wanted to tie the festival in with
activities at the airport. There was going to be a poker run and many other activities.
On May 3rd there would be a cookout and a Russian Exchange group was expected
there during the Swainsboro Fly-In.

EAA 172 WebMaster Charles Barreras, Jr., said that so far only 14 club members had
given their e-mail addresses for the Web page. Charles asked that all who have e-mail
send him their e-mail address. As of the Fish-Fry Fly-In 1870 people had contacted
the Website. As of earlier today there were 2114 "hits" (contacts). This is an average
of 11 per day. There are now 119 links to other EAA Chapter Web pages. This is the
most extensive of any EAA Website -- even more than the national one! The.
problems with the Guest Book portion had been fixed.

The business meeting adjourned at 8:31 PM.

Program: President Allen had a short video tape about the Flying Start program. Bob Mackey hosted the video and gave suggestions about getting people interested in flying.

The March meeting was the Poker Run and Fish-Fry Fly-In. No regular business was
transacted. Secretary John Magnan handed out the information sheets about the
Wrens Fly-In (May 15, 16).

There was a large crowd at the Pea Patch for the Fly-In and fish fry. More than forty
members attended  as well as at least thirty visitors and guests. Eating started around
1:00 PM. The buffet tables were full of plates of desserts and side dishes. There was
more than enough fish for everyone. More than 20 aircraft lined the field.

After the meal the group was treated to music by Al Newman with his harmonica-
banjo combo.

Charles Barreras, Jr., the EAA 172 WebMaster, brought his computer and
demonstrated  how the EAA 172 Web site operates to several interested people.

The Poker Run drew 14 aircraft with 29 people on board. Pilots included Dennis
Allen with his Cessna 172, Charlie and Greg Connell with a Piper, Ron Netzer with
a Cessna 172, Jim Tinley with his Huskey, David Revell with his Cessna 172
Skyhawk, Tom Collins with his Cessna 182, Tom Patton with his Piper PA-22, Al and
Larry Patton with a Cessna 175, Ray Sheffield with his Stitts Playmate, Jay Shealy
with his TriPacer, Ralph Powell with his T-18 Thorp, John McAnn with his
Gulfstream Tiger, Juan Hill with his Kitfox and Cliff Aiken with his Stitts Flut-R-Bug
SA6. The only incidents that occurred were that both participating Wrens-based
aircraft had dead batteries. Ron Netzer hand-propped Wyman Fox's C172 while Ralph
Powell jumped started his T-18 Thorp from his van's battery. Ray Sheffield's Pitts
Playmate had a troublesome engine and Ray flew it back from Millen to Twin Lakes
and then made the rest of the Poker Run in his car. At the Pea Patch the first place
winner was Al Youngblood; the second place winner was Jay Shealey; the third place
winner was Larry Patton.

As a reminder for the next meeting the following items were tabled until they can be
discussed:
Old Business: President Allen said that an EAA 172 Coordinator for the Flying-Start
program is needed. This person should have excellent communications skills, high
energy, the ability to recruit new pilots and be a role model for those interested in
flying. He asked that everyone think of a possible candidate and they would choose
someone at the March [now the April] meeting.

A discussion will be held about who is going to Sun and Fun in April.

Volunteers for helping at the Wrens Fly-In will be signed up.

The Georgia-Carolina Rotorcraft Club, PRA Chapter 13, who were guests of EAA
172 at the Pea Patch, also had their monthly meeting after the meal.

EAA Chapter 172 gives tribute to long-time club member Mr. Morris Waldrop, Sr., who died February 23, 1998, at the age of 76. He was a native of Montezuma and a mechanical engineer. "Mo" graduated from the University of Alabama and was an Army veteran of World War II where he served as a combat engineer. He fought in the Normandy invasion and the Battle of the Bulge. He received the Silver Star, Bronze Star and three Purple Hearts. Survivors include his wife, Myrtle Lee Scott Waldrop, a son, Morris Waldrop, Jr., two daughters, Claudia
Waldrop and Betsy Waldrop Bradley, three brothers, a sister and two grandchildren.
 

The meeting was called to order at 7:38 PM by President Dennis Allen. Treasurer
David Parrish presented the treasurer's report. The bank balance is currently
$2,163.93. $350.00 was received for dues before the meeting. There  is $63.00 in the
kitty. The minutes of the last meeting were accepted as printed in the newsletter.
President Allen thanked Bob Rhodes and the Aerospouses for the Chili dinner. There
were 45 members and spouses present and also six guests. President Allen introduced
guests Norm Presley from Chapel Hill, Tennessee, Tom Collins's parents Gene and
Madella Collins, Vincent Goransky, Walt Peterson from Appling, Georgia,  and Bill
Jones from EAA Chapter 14, San Diego, California.

Dennis said he has the advance information about the Sun'n Fun Fly-In for all who
want to get their tickets early.

Old Business: President Allen talked about the Chapter Leadership meeting held the
previous week. He, Ken Rayburn, David Parrish, John Magnan and Rich Gabor
attended.

President Allen said that the  award ballot box for the special awards to be given out
during the 1998 Christmas party has been made and would be put in the clubhouse.
During the year members could nominate those who have most contributed to the
furtherance of the Chapter's goals.

New Business: A Poker Run will be held before the Fish Fry on March 14th. It will
start at 9:00 AM and finish at 1:00 PM. The airports will be Wrens, Louisville, Millen,
Waynesboro and the Pea Patch. John Magnan and others will handle the Wrens
airport; the Louisville Flyers Club will take care of Louisville; George Odom will  take
care of  Waynesboro;  and, Keith Brock will  handle Millen. More details will be in
the newsletter.

President Allen said that an EAA 172 Coordinator for the Flying-Start program is
needed. This person should have excellent communications skills, high energy, the
ability to recruit new pilots and be a role model for those interested in flying. He
asked that everyone think of a possible candidate and they would choose someone at
the March meeting.

Young Eagles Coordinator Wyman Fox said that there would be a Young Eagles rally
at Daniel Field on February 21st. Fifty to one-hundred Boy Scouts are expected.
There will also be a Young Eagles rally at the Swainsboro airport on March 7th. The
first Young Eagles rally was already held. Keith Donker, Tom Collins and Tom
Jackson handled about fifteen scouts at Thomson on February 7th. Wyman gave out
the list from the EAA of the eleven pilots from our Chapter who flew ten or more
Young Eagles in 1997.

Secretary John Magnan introduced possible amendments to the EAA 172 By-Laws.
He passed out copies and asked for comments. He asked if the Charter members
present had any problem with making the officers plus the various people with special
duties such as Young Eagles Coordinator or Newsletter Editor the Directors of the
Chapter. They had none. He also had an amendment which would state that a quorum
exists if 20% of the membership were at a meeting. Both proposed changes had been
the result of discussions among the Chapter officers prior to the meeting. There was
some discussion about the proposals. After a couple of changes were made in the
suggested Bylaw changes, Secretary Magnan moved that it be adopted. Tom Garcia
seconded the motion. The vote was: those in favor:30; those opposed: 1. The motion
passed with the required 2/3 majority of members present.

      ARTICLE VII - BOARD OF DIRECTORS
  b. The Board of Directors shall consist of the the four duly elected officers:
President, Vice-President, Secretary and Treasurer. In addition the Board of Directors shall include
the Technical Counselor, Newsletter Editor, Young Eagles Coordinator, Flying Start Coordinator,
Program Chairman and Internet WebMaster. In the event someone shall occupy two or more of these
positions that person shall act as only one director and have only one vote.  The President shall be
the Chairman of the Board of Directors. The Vice-President shall be the Vice-Chairman of the Board
of Directors. (This addition approved by a two-thirds  majority of members present at the February
12, 1998, meeting).

              ARTICLE VIII  - MEETINGS OF MEMBERS
  e. At any meeting of the members, a quorum shall consist of 20% of the total
members who are in good standing, represented either in person or by proxy.  (The change from 50%
to 20%  approved by a two-thirds  majority of members present at the February 12, 1998, meeting).

Charles Barreras, Jr., the EAA 172 WebMaster, gave an update on the Webpages. We
now have reciprocal "links" with seventy other chapters, ten of them in foreign
countries. He has received 35-40 e-mail messages about the Website. An increasing
number of people are using the EAA 172 Website to obtain information about our
club.

The business meeting adjourned at 7:53 PM.

Program: Tech Counselor Al Patton presented a very thorough and detailed program
about flight testing an amateur built aircraft. Al used various aircraft he has tested as
examples. He started by giving several hints about test flying the aircraft. Probably
less than two hours of taxi testing is needed . The selected airport should have at least
a 4000 by 100 foot runway that is into the wind. For the high speed taxi tests as long
a runway as possible would be best. A good test pilot should be chosen since the
aircraft builder may have decreased piloting skills because of the years building, not
flying, an airplane.

Al related incidents with the twenty to thirty aircraft he has tested. These include his
first APF, our EAA biplane, his and Ralph Powell's T-18 Thorps, at least two Pitts,
a Taylor Monoplane, a Starduster II, a Culver Cadet, a Hatch Biplane (which had a
jammed throttle), RV-4s, RV-6s and many other aircraft.

The meeting was called to order at 7:32 PM by President Dennis Allen. Treasurer
David Parrish presented the treasurer's report. The bank balance is currently
$1,708.97. $530.00 were received for dues before the meeting. There  is $165.50 in
the kitty. The minutes of the last meeting were accepted as printed in the newsletter.
President Allen thanked Don Murphy and the Aerospouses for the spaghetti dinner.
There were 40 members and spouses present and also six guests. President Allen
introduced guests Aaron Ramsey from Davisboro, John Liebe and his wife Jaylynn,
and Chris and Ben Morgan. Maureen Rhodes introduced her mother.

Dennis mentioned some completed projects. John Lacher has finished his Mustang II
at Twin Lakes. Pam Collins dad, Curt Martin along with a friend, Bill Kelley, have
finished a Murphy Rebel.

President Allen and Secretary John Magnan gave award plaques to Keith and Lilly
Robbins for the work they have done for EAA Chapter 172 during 1997. Dennis also
presented service certificates from the EAA to Al Patton (two certificates: for the
Newsletter and for Tech Counselor), David Parrish, John Magnan, Ken Rayburn and
Wyman Fox. There was also a certificate for Dennis Allen.

Old Business: President Allen reminded everyone about Don Gay's monthly fly-in on
the first Saturday of the month at the Swainsboro airport. He, Ken and Al Patton  had
flown down for the January fly-in and cookout.

Dennis also reminded everyone about the 1998 EAA calendars. For members it is
$5.00. For others the cost is $7.00.

Member Everett Parks reminded everyone about the Briar Patch meetings for EAA
330. It's held the third Saturday of the month. The meal is at 11:00 AM. GPS
coordinates: 32° 26.13' N, 81° 20.28' W.

New Business: President Allen said that for 1998 the special awards would be chosen
by ballot. An award ballot box would be put in the clubhouse and during the year
members could nominate those who have contributed to the furtherance of the
Chapter's goals.

Dennis said that termites were eating away at the clubhouse. After some discussion
it was found that there was no termite prevention contract. Ralph Powell and others
would check on the cost of a treatment and contract and bring the information to the
next meeting.

There will be a Fish-Fry Fly-in on Saturday, March 14. This will be the March
meeting. More details will be forthcoming.

The business meeting adjourned at 7:53 PM.

Program: Program  chairman Ron Netzer intoduced Greg Lindsey who was going
to discuss avionics and problems people have with their aircraft and the antennas and
the problems they can cause to various receivers and transmitters on board.

Greg said that the main item to look for when having problems is that there is a
ground plane, a metal surface connected to the ground end of the antenna system. If
this is poor or non-existent there will certainly be problems with reception and
transmissions. Greg discussed the size of the ground plane needed.

When questioned about hand-helds Greg said that the shielding (braid) is the ground
plane for the hand-held.

Conventional aircraft use their metal covering as a ground plane. There is a need to
make a good ground plane for composite aircraft such as the Velocity or for fabric
covered aircraft.

The December meeting was the Christmas party at the refurbished EAA 172
Clubhouse at the Pea Patch Aerodrome. The hangar area had been cleaned up and the
tables set out for the banquet. Many members had helped clean up both the front and
back of the clubhouse during the prior two weeks. The Connells and others had
installed the new heating and cooling system. Bob Rhodes started the hams and
turkeys cooking in the club barbecue trailer outside around 2:00 that afternoon.
Maureen Rhodes, Fay Allen and Katherine Parks set out the serving tables in the front
room and arranged the place settings on the tables in the hangar. There was a roaring
fire in the fireplace. Club members arrived all afternoon and by 6:30 PM more than
eighty members and guests had arrived. The serving tables in the front of the
clubhouse were overflowing with meats, side dishes, bread, rolls and desserts.

Around 8:00 PM, while many were still eating dessert, President Allen opened the
"business" part of the celebration. He thanked Charles and Greg Connell for the
heating and cooling system. He also told the members that they now have a new,
working, VCR. Then, assisted by Secretary John Magnan, Dennis presented plaques
for "Outstanding service and devotion to EAA Chapter 172, 1997" to Fay Allen, Pam
Collins, Sheila Connell, Joyce Ann Newman, Sue Rayburn, Maureen Rhodes, Lilly
Robbins and Loraine Schoenfelder. Allen also gave plaques "For dedicated service
and devotion, EAA Chapter 172, 1997" to Don Murphy, Ken Rayburn, Bob Rhodes
and Keith Robbins. Bob Rhodes was so overcome with having received the award
that he gave Dennis a hug and a kiss.  Wyman Fox received a special plaque as "Chief
Flight Leader" for "Dedicated service to the Young Eagles Program, EAA Chapter
172, 1997." In accepting his plaque, Wyman said "I appreciate this but I could not do
it without the support of everyone throughout the year."  Dennis awarded Ron Netzer
a plaque for Ron's role as Eagle Flight Leader "For flying more than 90 Young Eagles
in 1997." Dennis then awarded EAA 172 WebMaster Charles Barreras, Jr. a plaque
"For setting up and maintaining our Internet Website, EAA Chapter 172, 1997."
Dennis also awarded John Magnan a special "Outstanding Service Award" plaque for
the work he has done for EAA 172.

The meeting was called to order at 7:26 PM by President Dennis Allen. Treasurer
David Parrish presented the treasurer's report: At Boshears we netted $978.62 from
the Food Trailer, $181.00 for calendars, $128.00 for other money in for a total of
$1,287.62. The bank balance is currently $3,366.01. There is $117.00 in the kitty. The
minutes of the last meeting were accepted as printed in the newsletter. President Allen
thanked Don Murphy for the meal and the Ladies for bringing the desserts. Dennis
said a few words about the Boshears Air Show and had some leftover caps and
programs to give out. Dennis said that the 1998 Boshears will probably be in
September because the weather might be better. When asked about the model airplane
crash which missed several club members by less than 20 feet, Dennis said that the
model airplanes "will be out" for the 1998 Boshears. He also announced that
Alexanders is going to have a workshop January 17th and 18th and passed around a
flyer with more information. There were 42 members and spouses present and also
two guests:

Club member Sondy Lawrence introduced his wife, Jennie, and his mother
Marguerite. Marguerite is from Wichita, Kansas, and she says she is a young 81 years
old. She was first licensed as a pilot in 1940 and has not missed Sun'n Fun since it
began. She belongs to EAA Chapter 88 and to the OX5 Club and can be found at
their booth or building every year at Sun'n Fun. She is also a member of the 99's
Sunflower Chapter and is a volunteer at the Kansas Aviation Museum.

Old Business: Secretary John Magnan said that letter writing to and other contacts
with the FAA about the proposed 355 foot tower near the Wrens airport had been
successful. Altell is now going to erect only a 200 foot tower which meets the tower
height requirements for towers near airports.

New Business: Al Newman moved that the four club officers pay no dues since their
duties require them to donate much time for the benefit of EAA 172. Bob Rhodes
seconded the motion and it passed unanimously.

Dennis Allen passed around a letter received from National EAA Director of
Government Programs Earl Lawrence. This letter concerned the proposed Federal
Communications Commission (FCC) rule that overrides local and state laws regarding
radio towers. Such a rule could negatively affect the safety of the airspace around
airports. Secretary Magnan pointed out that the proposed rule could be a two-edged
sword since many club members are also ham radio operators and as such don't want
local restrictions on their antenna tower height.

Wyman Fox reported on the Young Eagles program. The last rally was highly
successful and brought the count up to 463 Young Eagles flown this year. Wyman
thanked everyone for their help. He said that Larry Garner had suggested that we set
a goal of doing 500 Young Eagles during the 1998 International Young Eagles Day.
Wyman said that the first 1998 Young Eagles rally would be in Swainsboro on March
7th.

EAA 172 WebMaster Charles Barreras, Jr. reported that as of that afternoon there
were 1127 "hits" or visits to the EAA 172 Website. Charles wants to have links to all
the EAA Websites in the world and reciprocal links from them so that it is easy to find
out what other EAA chapters are doing. He shared some E-mail received through the
Website including one to Ken and Sue Rayburn from their daughter Laura.

President Allen made a motion to pay the $210 cost for obtaining a unique EAA 172
Web address (URL). John Magnan seconded the motion and it passed unanimously.

Tom Garcia moved that there be a Toys for Tots at the Christmas Party. Charles
Barreras, Jr. and Gerald Ballard both seconded the motion and it passed unanimously.

ELECTIONS: Wyman Fox proposed a nomination slate of Rich Gabor for President,
Ron Netzer for Vice-President, John Magnan for Secretary and David Parrish for
Treasurer. Al Patton proposed another slate of candidates nominating the current
leadership team: President Dennis Allen, Vice-President Ken Rayburn, Secretary John
Magnan and Treasurer David Parrish. After some discussion Secretary Magnan took
the vote count: 8 votes for Wyman's slate, 18 votes for Al's slate. So the officers for
1998 will be: Dennis Allen, President; Ken Rayburn, Vice-President; John Magnan,
Secretary; David Parrish, Treasurer.

Secretary Magnan suggested that someone else besides President Allen take charge
of getting most of the programs for each meeting. Ron Netzer agreed to become the
Program Chairman.

Wyman Fox moved that John Magnan should be Chairman of the Wrens Fly-In. Bill
Mauck seconded the motion and it passed unanimously.

Secretary Magnan said that the previously proposed date of May 30th for the Wrens
Fly-In may not be good because of local school graduations. Other members said that
the same would be true of the following two Saturdays in June. The date decided on
is the weekend (starting with Friday) of May 15, 16, 17 with most off the activities
occurring on May 16th. Mark Thompson and his brother Steve suggested that there
could be a motorcycle show at the airport during the fly-in to increase the number of
people attending. These bikers are not the rough bikers shown on TV and in the
movies but are professional people whose "hobby" Harleys often cost more than
airplanes!

President Allen said that the next meeting would be the Christmas Party on Saturday,
December 13. Those whose last names begin with A through M should bring desserts.
The rest should bring some bread or vegetable dish. The party will start at 7:00 PM
but things will be going on all afternoon.

The meeting adjourned at 8:08 PM followed by an appropriate video.

Wyman Fox, EAA Chapter 172 Young Eagles Coordinator, said that the Young Eagles rally held at Daniel Field on November 8 was a huge success. Pilots started flying around 8:00 AM and they flew until noon. More than 113 new Young Eagles flew. Pilots also flew many parents and veteran Young Eagles. Pilots included Jerry Berger, Wyman Fox, Larry Garner, Tom Jackson, Keith Donker, Tim Richardson and Dick Schoenfelder. Tom Whisnant gave pre-flights using his Cessna 150. Many others helped out including Keith Robbins, Lilly Robbins, Jamail Larkin, Will Robertson, Jeremy Story, Ann Netzer, Rich Gabor and Sondy Lawrence. Wyman said that, including some special Young Eagles flights made since November 8, more
than 475 Young Eagles have been flown by EAA 172 this year!

The meeting was called to order at 7:32 PM by President Dennis Allen.
Treasurer David Parrish presented the treasurer's report: a total of $1886.71 for
the bank balance and $172.00 in the kitty. The minutes of the last meeting were
accepted as printed in the newsletter with the following correction: Betty
Holmes was being honored for her contributions to General Aviation. There
were 33 members and 7 guests present. The club welcomed guest Greg Lindsey
who works with member Ron Netzer for the U.S. Postal Service and who also
does some aviation radio repair work. The club also welcomed guest Kinsey
Butler, a new pilot who also does aircraft cylinder repair work.  President Allen
thanked Don Gay for providing the chicken dinners that fed everyone before the
meeting. President Allen remarked that there were about twelve EAA 172
members at the CSRA Pilots Association meeting held to honor Astronaut
Susan Stills. Also about eight or nine members were at the Darlington Fly-In the
weekend before.

Before the meeting started Al Newman gave out prints (at cost) of the photo he
took of the club membership at the September meeting.

Old Business: Secretary Magnan presented the grass striper the club purchased.
It seems to make acceptable lines on the grass. It was handed over for
safekeeping to Vice-President Ken Rayburn.

President Allen showed a video about volunteers called "EAA Volunteers." He
then started a discussion about the finalized plans for the Boshears Air Show to
be held October 17-19. Rich Gabor had already given out volunteer badges and
told everyone that they should be at the Saturday night volunteers party at 7:00
in the Chairman's Tent.

Mark Slone, Wyman Fox, Ron Netzer and several other club members would
get the seats for the two people-movers from the Wrens airport and assemble
them on the two trailers at the Pea Patch on Friday, October 10. Ken Rayburn
would bring up his motor home during the week and set up the EAA 172 tents.
Don Murphy and others would bring up the food trailer and also Don's APF
fuselage and set those up. John Magnan would work on decorating the trailer
(generously provided by member Keith Brock) with posters.  Fay Allen, Joyce
Newman, Sue Rayburn, Pam Collins, Maureen Rhodes and others would set up
the menus and other things for the food trailer.

New Business: President Allen brought up the annual Christmas party. It would
be at the Pea Patch this year. After some discussion a motion was made that the
date should be Saturday, December 13. The motion was made by Wyman Fox
and seconded by Charles Barreras, Jr. The following members volunteered to
help set up for the party: Don Gay, Ken Rayburn, Bob Rhodes, Al Newman and
Saundy Lawrence.

Young Eagles Coordinator Wyman Fox said that the next scheduled Young
Eagles event is the 11th of October at Daniel Field and would end by noon. The
Young Eagles' Rallies after that would be November 1st at Swainsboro and
November 8th at Daniel Field.

WebMaster Charles Barreras, Jr., announced that the updated EAA 172 Web
site had 998 "hits" (computer users who had looked at the EAA 172 Website)
as of 6:00 PM. Its location (URL) is: http://www.csranet.com/~lancer.  Newsletter
Editor Al Patton said that the corrected Website URL would be in the
newsletter masthead after the pre-printed first pages were used up.

Al Patton described the "Flying Wing" that had been donated to him and the
club. Currently it is not airworthy and probably could not be put in that
condition.  There are some problems with the metalwork and  landing gear.  The
fabric-covered wooden wings have deteriorated. There was some discussion of
where to put it. Its final disposition was left to Al.

President Allen said that elections for officers would be held at the November
meeting. Dennis also said that he would like to pass on the Club Presidency to
someone else and asked members to think of suitable candidates between now
and the November meeting.

The meeting adjourned at 8:14 PM.

The meeting was called to order at 7:30 PM by President Dennis Allen.
Treasurer David Parrish presented the treasurer's report: a total of $1861.08 for
the bank balance and $154.00 in the kitty. The minutes of the last meeting were
accepted as printed in the  newsletter. There were over 50 members and also 3
guests present. The club welcomed guests Bob Hollingsworth from Twin Lakes,
Frank Frankson and Mike Gunn, the chief FAA official at the Augusta Bush
Field airport. The club welcomed new member Frank Bankson. Bob Rhodes
provided the "Low Country Boil" repast that fed everyone  before the meeting.
President Allen remarked that the new EAA 1998 calendars were in -- Treasurer
David Parrish had them -- and after a short discussion about their cost he said
that the calendars would be on sale for $7.00 each.

Program: President Dennis Allen asked FAA tower chief Mike Gunn to speak to the
group. Mike started out by saying his "Role is not to act as traffic cop." He
noted that he was careful to wear his EAA not FAA shirt in preparation for
addressing the EAA 172 members. After a short comment about his role at Bush
Field Mike asked if anyone had questions. A question was asked about low wires
with only a couple of warning balls over the Savannah River. Mike said he
would look into that especially since, as Richard Fender had remarked, the
upper Savannah and Clarks Hill Lake had been opened up to float planes/sea-
planes and the low wires presented a hazard. Mike, when questioned, said that
the construction of the ILS facilities and structures at Thomson was well under
way. He also said that if Bush Field ever meets the criteria he would file for
Class C for Bush Field but would make sure appropriate exceptions would be
made for landings and departures for Daniel Field. Many questions were
addressed to Mike about radio towers in the area. He said he would check
whether the proposed AlTel tower near Wrens had been rejected or approved.
Another tower question had to do with the 1465 foot (AGL) public TV tower
near Wrens -- why couldn't it have strobes in addition to the weak lights
currently on it? He said he would check on that. Another question had to do
with the Plant Vogle lights -- what happened to them? Mike said he would
check on that. Mike Gunn left early after joking that all pilots should produce
their certificates and other paperwork for a ramp check.

Old Business: Tech Counselor/Newletter Editor Al Patton asked where were  the
new sectionals the club purchased. President Allen and Secretary Magnan told
the members that the current sectionals were on a shelf next to the speakers
lectern. The club sectionals are the Miami, Jacksonville, Atlanta, Charlotte,
Cincinnati and New Orleans. They are there for reference for all the club
members.

Al Newman brought up his discussion from the last meeting about honoring
Betty Holmes. He moved that a letter be sent to her because of the help she has
given to aviation. The motion was seconded and passed unanimously.

New Business: Vice-President Ken Rayburn discussed some of the plans for the
upcoming Boshears Fly-In. They will need help on Wednesday, October 15,
getting everything set up. The Club will bring the food trailer. Rich Gabor is
taking names on a list he has for times the members can help. On Friday,
October 17, there will be a night show for the first time. During the night show
there will be balloons, aerobatics and the airplane-truck race. Ken will take care
of air traffic on the ground and he wants EAA members to help on that.
Workers will be needed daily from 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM. Volunteers will be
needed around the tents and for the aircraft security. The displays will be set up
on Wednesday, October 15. Daniel Field will close to regular air traffic Monday
or Tuesday before the fly-in.

New Business: Young Eagles Coordinator Wyman Fox said that the next scheduled Young
Eagles event is the 20th of September at Thomson. He will also have a Young
Eagles Rally on October 11th at Daniel Field, November 1st at Swainsboro and
November 8th at Daniel Field.

President Allen brought up that the food trailer would be needed for the
September 20th Young Eagles Rally at Thomson. Maureen Rhodes and the
other ladies who usually work the food trailer (Fay Allen and Pam Collins)
volunteered to take care of that.

Secretary John Magnan said that a better system would be needed for the
future to mark lines on the grass for a landing strip for ultralights at fly-ins. He
moved that the club purchase an inexpensive line marker and a case of spray
paint made for grass. After a short discussion the motion was seconded and
passed unanimously.

John Magnan again mentioned a rotorcraft fly-in to be held at the Barnwell
Airport October 3-5. He said that several helicopters as well as possibly an
Apache helicopter flown by one of the rotorcraft club members, Warrant
Officer Rusty Nance, would be at the Fly-In. Magnan and EAA 172 members
Mark Slone and Sid Harmon are also members of the Georgia-Carolina
Rotorcraft Club Chapter 13 which will be hosting the event.

Program: A short videotape was shown after the meeting. The meeting
adjourned at 7:25 PM.

The special Saturday meeting was called to order at 2:45 PM by President
Dennis Allen. Treasurer David Parrish presented the treasurer's report:
$2836.22 in the bank; $40.00 in dues in before the meeting; $172.00 in the kitty.
The minutes of the last meeting were accepted as printed in the newsletter.
There were 33 members who signed in though many more were present [ed note:
please sign the register at all meetings!] Guests at the meeting were Frank
Bankson, Robert Gerald, Kenny Martin and Durenda Davis. The latter two are
members of the new flying club started at Augusta State University under
Charles Barreras, Jr.'s guidance. The club officially welcomed new member
Sondy Lawrence from Martinez, Georgia. There were many other guests who
visited the aircraft, pilots and hangars.

Old Business: WebMaster Charles Barreras, Jr., announced that the updated
EAA 172 Web site was running. Its Web location (URL) is:
http://www.csranet.com/~lancer. Charles asked the members to check it out and
let him know if some graphic doesn't appear or if there are any typographical
errors.

New Business: President Allen said that he had received a nice letter from
member Dudley Bowen about the Augusta Chronicle article featuring EAA 172
activities at the Pea Patch.

Dennis also reminded the club about member Don Gay's monthly first Saturday
fly-ins at the Swainsboro airport. Don will have a reduced price for avgas. Don
will also have a fly-in at his home airfield (Hacienda De Gay) on September 13th
at 1:00 PM. GPS coordinates are: 32° 39.82' N   82° 04.47' W

Al Newman brought up making Betty Holmes an honorary member of EAA 172
for the help she has given the club over the past years. This was tabled until the
next meeting.

Young Eagles Coordinator Wyman Fox said that the next scheduled Young
Eagles event is the 20th of September at Thomson. There is also a tentative
Young Eagles event at Daniel Field on October 11.

A review of the findings about the DC-3 were presented by President Dennis
Allen and Secretary John Magnan. The Augusta/Richmond County Museum
had offered to give their DC-3 to EAA Chapter 172 for renovation as a static
display. Magnan called EAA headquarters who referred him to Avemco
Insurance about liability insurance. He was advised to form a separate
corporation if some members wanted to obtain the DC-3 under the auspices of
EAA 172. Also, the liability insurance would run about $2,000 to $5,000
annually for a "dry" aircraft sitting on the tarmac at Wrens (the insurance cost
to "run up" the engines by putting in fuel, oil, hydraulic fluid etc. starts at
$10,000 to $12,000 annually).  Vice-President Ken Rayburn and Secretary
Magnan climbed all around the inside and outside of the DC-3 the week before
the meeting and determined that even with about twenty instruments and all
the avionics missing there were no badly damaged parts and the aircraft was
salvageable, at least for static display, if it could be moved.  Allen found that
moving the aircraft, even with the help of members who might provide the
equipment, would cost well over $1,000 for permits alone. At present it was
agreed to table the matter for future discussion by members who might want to
form a separate corporation.

John Magnan mentioned a rotorcraft fly-in to be held at the Barnwell Airport
October 3-5. Magnan and EAA 172 members Mark Slone and Sid Harmon are
also members of the Georgia-Carolina Rotorcraft Club Chapter 13 which will
be hosting the event.

The meeting adjourned at 3:20 PM followed by more flying, hangar flying and
a remarkable start of a certain red biplane by a Volkswagen Rabbit.

After Al Newman took outdoor pictures of all the members (as a group), the
meeting was called to order at 7:35 PM by President Dennis Allen. Treasurer
David Parrish presented the treasurer's report: a total of $2695.22 with an
additional $105 in the kitty. The minutes of the last meeting were accepted as
printed in the  newsletter. There were 44 members and spouses present. The
club officially welcomed new member Jerry Berger who now keeps his aircraft
in the Wrens hangar.

Old Business: Al Newman said that he had contacted the Augusta-Richmond
County officials so that EAA 172 could adopt Boulineau Road as a regular
highway cleanup project. The city officials said that an adopted road had to be
at least one mile long, Al checked and the road is 1.2 miles long. The City will
be providing a sign.

WebMaster Charles Barreras, Jr., said he was hoping to have the EAA 172
Website back up as soon as possible. Charles asked if he should start the
number of contacts to the Web (called "hits") at zero or if he should retain the
last recorded "hit" which was 753. The members said to start from 753.

New Business: President Allen reminded the members about the Darlington Fly-
In in October. He also said that the Camden EAA Chapter 1132 would have a
fly-in September 5th to 7th. This is the Palmetto Aeroplane Classic at
Woodward Field which has 5000' and 2500' runways.

Dennis also passed out announcements for the How-To Weekend Workshops
put on by Alexander Sportair in Griffin, Georgia. These will be offered August
23rd and 24th and will have workshops on all aspects of aircraft construction.
Their phone number is 800-967-5746.

President Allen passed around a copy of the new 1998 calendar. He will find out
how many were ordered last year and order the same number this year.

Don Murphy said that since Charles Barreras, Jr. was starting an aviation club
at Augusta State University there should probably be a student rate for
membership in EAA 172. He moved that the rate should be $10 a year for
students. The motion was seconded by Wyman Fox and passed unanimously.

Al Newman said that the Georgia Shortwing Piper Club will be at Boshears and
asked for help in transporting the Piper Club members to and from Daniel
Field.

Young Eagles Coordinator Wyman Fox said that they have flown about 200
Young Eagles so far this year. The next scheduled Young Eagles event is the
19th or 20th of September.

Program:
Tech Counselor Al Patton presented a series of "Tech Tips" on aircraft oil
temperature. Al said that oil is responsible for about 20% of the engine cooling.
Multigrade oils perhaps cool 20% better than single viscosity oil. He said that
an oil cooler will pass seven gallons a minute and drop the temperature 30
degrees. The ideal temperature is 180 to 240 degrees Fahrenheit. Al gave several
possible causes for high oil temperature readings:
 1. Cylinder -- worn out rings, blowby.
 2. Bad electrical contact in oil temperature sending unit.
 3. Oil cooler that needs to be flushed and cleaned.
 4. Clearances too tight after an overhaul.
 5. High time engine.
 

The meeting adjourned at 8:14 PM followed by a video called the "Fascination
of Flight" which showed some of the types of aircraft EAA members may be
interested in: balloons, sailplanes, ultralights, gyroplanes, helicopters, antiques
and classics, modern certified aircraft, experimentals, float planes and warbirds.

The meeting was called to order at 7:37 PM by President Dennis Allen.
Treasurer David Parrish presented the treasurer's report: a total of $3085.20
including $50 received for calendars and renewals and a net loss of $1.50 for the
Wrens Fly-In after taking into account revenue and expenses . The minutes of
the last meeting were accepted as printed in the  newsletter. There were 35
members and 3 guests present. The club welcomed guest Bob Hollandsworth
from Twin Lakes as well as regular guests Jamail Larkin and Ann Netzer.

Old Business: President Allen recognized the work done by Mark Slone and
John Magnan in preparing the Wrens airport for the Wrens Fly-In. Secretary
Magnan in turn thanked all those who helped out with the Fly-In.

President Allen also said that the second installment of $250 for the Keystone
Brick honoring Al Patton (on Compass Hill at Oshkosh, Wisconsin) was sent in.

New Business: President Allen said that two new copies of the EAA bylaw book
were sent to the club by the EAA headquarters: to him and to Secretary
Magnan. A copy was passed around to the members. Dennis also passed around
a letter about the Clinton aviation user fee proposal.

Al Newman said that the club should demonstrate its community spirit by
"adopting" Boulineau Road as a regular highway cleanup project. His motion
passed unanimously.

A discussion was held about identifying Boulineau Road (where it joins highway
88) so that visitors could find the Pea Patch. It was decided that a sign with