Home page Past Meetings
Click HERE for the current month's meeting
 
2005-2006

This is what happened at the Meetings of the Membership, of EAA Chapter 172.
 Previous minutes:  December, 2006   November, 2006   October, 2006  September, 2006  August, 2006   July, 2006   June, 2006    May, 2006   April, 2006    March, 2006    February, 2006   January, 2006     December, 2005    November, 2005,   October, 2005,    September, 2005,   August, 2005,    July, 2005,    June, 2005,   May, 2005April, 2005,  March, 2005   February, 2005    January, 2005  
 
BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETINGS:  January 14, 2006  
 
 2006 EVENTS   
2006 Fish-Fry Fly-in    2006 Wrens Fly-in   2006 Cold-Cuts Fly-in    Keith Brock Memorial Fly-in 
2005 EVENTS 
2005 Fish-Fry Fly-in    2005 Wrens Fly-in  2005 Cold-Cuts Fly-in   Boshears-Skyfest 2005   Low-country Boil Fly-in  


PAST MEETINGS:
The complete minutes for all the PAST meetings
from January, 1996, through December, 2017
NOTE: LONG LOAD TIME
 
CLICK HERE for  January, 2015 -  December, 2017
 
CLICK HERE for  January, 2009 -  December, 2014

CLICK HERE for  January, 2007 -  December, 2008
 
CLICK HERE for  January, 2003 -  December, 2004
 
CLICK HERE for  January, 2001 -  December, 2002

CLICK HERE for  January, 1999 -  December, 2000
 
CLICK HERE for  January, 1997 - December, 1998
 
CLICK HERE for January 1996 - December, 1996
 

December, 2006  
Minutes of the Meeting for EAA Chapter 172 for December 9,  2006
 
THE EAA 172 CHRISTMAS PARTY

The EAA 172 Christmas Party was held in the refurbished clubhouse at the Pea Patch Aerodrome. About 40 members and guests attended. The meal started at 1:11 PM with an invocation by Al Newman. There was a well-stocked buffet table with turkey sandwiches, side dishes and desserts. The Aerospouses decorated the tables with Christmas decorations and candies, and set out the buffet. Club president Steve Thompson carved the turkey. During the meal the members enjoyed a humorous video provided by vice-president Larry Garner.
 
Toward the end of the meal, around 1:47 PM, Steve Thompson held a business meeting.  He thanked the Aerospouses for setting out the food and Christmas decorations. Steve said that Ford Motor Company again offers discounts to EAA members. Club treasurer Don Bush said that there was $115 in the Kitty and that we made $210 at the Millen Fly-in. Boshears Skyfest 2006 also added funds to our club account. He said that we are in “good shape” financially.
   
Old Business: Larry Garner said that the Boshears people did make money this year so there will most likely be a Boshears Skyfest 2007.
 
New Business: Al Newman made a statement about the Christmas season. He said that he has been in the club for 33 years and he’s getting old. He said that he was a Christian and that his grandmother led him and his brother to accept Christianity when he was 12 years old. He has always remembered, though nowadays many are forgetting, that Christmas is Jesus’ Birthday.
 
Steve Thompson told a poignant story about a trip made by Charlie Davis to St. Simon’s island. He then presented the 2006 EAA certificates to the officers and directors: Larry Garner for being Vice-President and Young Eagles Coordinator, John Magnan for being Secretary and Web Editor, Don Bush for being Treasurer, Al Patton for being Tech Counselor and Newsletter Editor, Pierre Smith for being Flight Advisor, Dennis Allen for being Flying Start Coordinator, and Gary Harden for being Logistics Director. Secretary John Magnan presented the certificate to Steve Thompson for being the 2006 club President.
 
We then had the elections. Steve thanked the outgoing officers and directors for their contributions to the welfare of the club. These included Maureen Rhodes who has been the Social Director for many years.  He then nominated Sheila Connell as EAA 172 President. Also, as director, he nominated Mary Joe Davis as Social Director. He nominated the other officers and directors to remain the same. Gary Harden seconded the nomination and the motion was accepted by a voice vote.
 
Al Newman moved that the meeting adjourn. Don Bush seconded the motion and the meeting adjourned at 2:14 PM. After the meeting many members attended Gerald Ballard’s Christmas Party at his Twin Lakes hangar. That party started at 6:30 PM. Quite a few of our members were there to enjoy the Christmas meal (the second one that day!) and some attempted to win the drawing for the cash prize. Last year Virginia Bush won the pot. She was not as lucky this year – someone else won it!


Prez Sez
      Greetings to each of you - aviators/enthusiasts/supporters!  I truly hope that 2007 will be one of the best ever for all!
      The past year has been a good one in many respects.  The "closing-in" of our dining area, accomplished under the lead of Vern Rikard, was a much-needed improvement - in aesthetics as well as energy conservation!  Pending the paint job to complete the project, we will be meeting and dining in style.  Pierre Smith took on the role of EAA Flight Advisor - added to his already being Transition Training Instructor for the RV6, RV7, RV8 and RV9!  Charlie Connell finally finished his RV8 (minus the paint job), and I can attest to its smooth "ride"!  Greg Connell attained his certification to perform air aerobatics just in time to participate in the Boshears Airshow.  We generally had good weather and attendance at this annual event and, thankfully, the revenue results were in black figures - which means that next year's "show" will go on.  We did, however, suffer a few great losses during the year.  Alcott Ashborn passed away. Al Patton's wife, Hazel, lost her battle with cancer.  And, the world of aviation relinquished two great pilots to the heavens with the passing of Keith Brock and Charlie Davis.  With Keith's absence, there was a sense of sadness at the Millen Fly-In in November.  However, the fly-in was renamed the Keith Brock Memorial and, hopefully, will remain an annual event.
      Our December meeting and Christmas party, combined with Gerald Ballard's festivities, turned out to be fun and eventful.  There was, unfortunately, a darker side to its ending, and the close of 2006:  the stepping-down of three of our officers/directors - Steve Thompson as President, Larry Garner as Vice-President, and Maureen Rhodes as Social Director.  Many, many thanks to each of these for the years of unpaid service to the Chapter, and we hope we can count on each to remain active participants in the Club.  Each of the NEW  officers/directors will certainly have big shoes to fill.  Welcome and thanks to Mary Joe Davis, who, as a recently-active participant, agreed to step into Maureen's shoes. Thanks, also, to Shirley Harden for assisting in that endeavor by taking on the responsibility of planning and coordinating our monthly EAT-OUTS! A new vice-president will be elected at our next meeting, January 13th, so come prepared with your nomination! 
      I am certainly honored by the confidence placed in me to lead the club in a positive direction and vouch that I will do my best to maintain that trust.  I ask for your prayers and support - not for my benefit - but for the benefit of the Club.
      My primary "vision" for EAA 172 in the coming year is summed up in one word - GROWTH!  I'd like us to share some ideas at this month's meeting on steps we can begin to take (AND MOVE IN THAT DIRECTION) to insure that all the knowledge/expertise  we are so blessed to have in senior members of this club is not lost or falls by the wayside.  My ears are open to anyone with positive
"feedback" or improvements for this organization and, again, I solicit your support during this transitional period!
       For our next meeting on Saturday, January 13th, please plan on bringing cornbread, a side dish, or dessert to go along with Steve Thompson's fabulous soup creation!

Sheila Connell

(RETURN TO TOP)
 

November, 2006  
Minutes of the Meeting for EAA Chapter 172 for November 11,  2006

THE KEITH BROCK MEMORIAL FLY-IN
We had some great  weather at the Millen fly-in. Though some said that the wind was a “tad brisk” more than 70 aircraft flew in to this annual Low Country Boil meal.  By noon there were more than fifty aircraft on the field. The light plane/ultralight groups that flew in included those from the Pea Patch, Trenton, and the EAA 330 Briar Patch. There was the usual wide variety of aircraft including many Cessnas, RVs, Pipers, Challengers, RANs, Titans, Kolbs and a Stinson.
 
More than 150 members, family and visitors enjoyed the low country boil meal at 1:00 PM when EAA 172 president Steve Thompson welcomed everyone. Prior to this they were treated to bowls of Gumbo. The Aerospouses set out the Gumbo and low-country boil meal. This group of ladies included Bettye Berning, Gina Brock, Virginia Bush, Sheila Connell, Mary Joe Davis, Shirley Harden, Jean Hildebrant, and Joyce Newman. Throughout the day Diana Brock walked through the crowd and made sure everyone signed the fly-in register. The low country boil meal was prepared by Dennis Allen, Gary Harden, Ron Haley, Thurmond Kent, and Steve Thompson. Charlie Connell manned the radio. These and other EAA 172 members also helped in the fly-in preparations earlier that day and during the week.

(RETURN TO TOP)

October, 2006  
Minutes of the Meeting for EAA Chapter 172 for October 14,  2006

Before the meeting we enjoyed delicious soup prepared by Steve Thompson and set out by the Aerospouses. At 1:00 PM Al Newman gave the invocation for the meal and everyone ate. There were 27 members, family and guests at the meeting. The business meeting started at 1:45 PM. Treasurer Don Bush said that the accounts were in order and that he had paid $151.51 for property taxes for the clubhouse. Al Newman said that he had his special hot mustard for sale for $1 a bottle.
                            
Old Business: Sheila Connell reminded everyone about the club Social Meeting at be held at Café on the Corner just off U.S. 1 in Clearwater, South Carolina. This will be on Thursday, October 26th.
 
Steve said that he will call Keith Brock’s widow, Gina, about the Keith Brock Memorial Fly-in scheduled in Millen for Saturday, November 11.
  
New Business: Maureen Rhodes asked for volunteers for the food trailer. She suggested donations of hamburgers etc. for Boshears. Steve said that on Friday a group will meet at the Pea Patch to load up the tents and other items on the trailer and then the group will bring the people mover trailers and the food trailer to Daniel Field. John Magnan had obtained a list of People Mover drivers/donation takers.
  
Larry Garner filled in the members about the aerobatic acts and other events that will be at Boshears-Skyfest 2006. He discussed the limited volunteer list. There will also be a volunteer party in the chairman’s tent on Saturday evening of the Boshears weekend.
 
Greg Connell, who will be doing his first aerobatic act at the Boshears Skyfest, made a few remarks. He thanked Al Patton for his encouragement and flight instruction. Greg said he was indebted to the late Charlie Davis for the IFR and commercial flying practice and training he received. He thanked Gary Ward for being his mentor in the aerobatic flying.
 
Al Newman moved that the meeting adjourn.  It was seconded and the meeting adjourned at 2:05 PM. 
 

(RETURN TO TOP)

September, 2006  
Minutes of the Meeting for EAA Chapter 172 for September 9,  2006
                            
Before the meeting we enjoyed delicious baked chicken set out by the Aerospouses. At 1:00 PM Al Newman gave the invocation for the meal and everyone ate. There were 40 members, family and guests at the meeting. At 1:00 PM Al Newman gave the invocation for the meal and everyone ate. The business meeting started at 1:27 PM. Steve read a letter from Helen Ashborn telling him that her husband, Alcott, had died on August 5th. There was also a letter from Edwin Brock thanking Steve for spreading the ashes of his son, Keith, over the Millen airport. There was also a letter from Mrs. Mary Joe Davis thanking the club for their support during the time of her husband’s passing. Steve reminded everyone about the Rhodes Barbecue on Sunday and also about the Vidalia Sweet Onion fly-in (put on by EAA 1332) the next weekend. Treasurer Don Bush said that the accounts were in order and that he had received more donations for the clubhouse renovation. There was $198 in the Kitty today.
                            
Old Business: Bob Rhodes discussed the Rhodes family barbecue which was going to be held at the Rhodes’ farm on Sunday, September 10th.  Everyone is invited. Bob said that he needs a hand-held radio for the fly-in.
 
We still need to paint the walls of the clubhouse eating  area. At the last meeting Bruce Cameron said he had some paint for that Also there is some trim to put up.
  
New Business: Steve said that the Millen Chamber of Commerce was again going to offer sodas for the Millen fly-in, if we have it.  So the members discussed whether to have a fly-in at Millen, now that the one who handled it in the past (Keith Brock) had passed away. Don Bush moved and John Magnan seconded having the Millen fly-in and call it the Keith Brock Memorial Fly-in. The motion passed unanimously. Steve said that we would not have to have a meeting the Thursday before the fly-in, as had been scheduled. The Keith Brock Memorial Fly-in will be on Saturday, November 11th. Steve established a committee to handle the details which they will report on at the October meeting. The members of the committee include Dennis Allen, Charlie Connell, Larry Garner, Dave Rossi and Steve Thompson. Steve said that the meal would start at 1:00 PM. Those whose last names begin with A-M should bring a side dish. Those whose last names begin with N-Z should bring a dessert. Someone mentioned that we may not be able to use the hangar at the Millen airport. There was a suggestion that we bring the tents.
  
Larry Garner played a video of past Millen fly-ins during the meal.
 
Al Newman moved that the meeting adjourn. Dick Schoenfelder seconded the motion and it passed unanimously. The meeting adjourned at 1:44 PM.


(RETURN TO TOP)
 


August, 2006  

Minutes of the Meeting for EAA Chapter 172 for August 12,  2006

Before the meeting we enjoyed delicious grilled Kosher and Baptist hot dogs as well as non-denominational hamburgers grilled by our president, Steve Thompson (you had to be there!), and set out by the Aerospouses. There were 24 members, family and guests at the meeting. The visitors were Michael Ballard, Pete Johnson, and Bob Martin. Bob is from Augusta and just moved from Maryland. At 1:06 PM Steve gave the invocation for the meal and everyone ate.
                            
Old Business: Treasurer Don Bush discussed the accounts and payments for the clubhouse remodeling. Vernon Rikard gave the bill (including some materials and labor expenses) for $5000, less $700 credit for an APF airframe from Charlie Connell so the total was $4300. Dennis Allen and Bob Rhodes each donated $100 to the building fund. The Kitty for the day was $140 and Don said that we are still in the black, financially.
 
Many club members had been to the viewing and funerals of Keith Brock on August 5th  and Hazel Patton (Al’s wife) on August 10-11. Members paused in remembrance of these events.
 
New Business: Bob Rhodes discussed the Rhodes family barbecue to be held at the Rhodes’ farm on September 10th.  Everyone is invited.   

The members talked about whether to have a Millen fly-in, usually the second Saturday of November. Though the fly-in was usually a “wind-down” time after the Boshears Skyfest activities, Keith Brock was the fly-in host who set things up since the Millen airport was where he lived. We decided to table the question until the next meeting.
 
We still need to paint the walls of the clubhouse eating  area. Bruce Cameron said he had some paint for that Also there is some trim to put up.
  
Gary Harden moved that the meeting adjourn. Don Bush seconded the motion and it passed unanimously. The meeting adjourned at 1:57 PM.

(RETURN TO TOP)


 
 
Keith Brock
Hazel Greene Patton 

Mrs. Hazel G. Patton, 79, of Augusta, beloved wife and mother, entered into rest on Wednesday August 9, 2006, at her residence.  The family received friends on Thursday, August 10, 2006, at Platt's Funeral Home from 6 until 8 p.m. Funeral services were held at 2:00 PM on Friday, August 11, 2006, in the Platt's Funeral Home Chapel with Dr. Greg DeLoach officiating. Burial was in Westover Memorial Park. Survivors include her husband Aldine Patton; four sons, Thomas A. Patton and wife Sally of Martinez, Lawrence E. Patton and wife Kay of Martinez, Bradley D. Patton of Huntersville, NC, and William R. Patton and wife Beth of Bluffton, SC; one daughter, Billie Jett Black and husband Greg Ruddell of McCormick SC; three brothers, Robey D. Greene, Edward L. Greene, and Jesse L. Greene all of Morganton, NC; and four grandchildren, Will Patton, Andy Patton, Brant Patton and Grace Patton. Mrs. Patton was a former State Delegate and past officer for the Richmond County Republican Party. She was a member of the Metropolitan Woman's Club and Bridge Club. She also enjoyed golf, fishing, college football, and the Atlanta Braves. She devoted her entire life to her family. Perhaps her greatest accomplishments were raising her children and watching over her grandchildren. Pallbearers were Will Patton, Andy Patton, Brant Patton, Todd Greene, Lindsay Thetford, and Bill McCallie. If so desired, memorials may be made to St. Joseph Hospice, 2260 Wrightsboro Rd. Augusta, Ga. 30904. Platt's Funeral Home 721 Crawford Ave. Augusta, Georgia, 30904 706-733-3636

Published in The Augusta Chronicle on 8/11/2006.


(RETURN TO TOP)
 


Alcott Russell Ashborn
Alcott Russell Ashborn, 84, husband of Helen Fooshe Ashborn, died Saturday, August 5, 2006, in Greenwood, South Carolina.
    Born in Waterbury, Connecticut, he was a son of the late Addison Ray and Inez Wheeler Ashborn. He was a World War II Air Force veteran, retired from the aircraft manufacturing industry, and was of the Episcopal faith. Living in McCormick for 20 years, he was a member of the American Legion, Experimental Aircraft Association, Elks USA and Loyal Order of the Moose. He was also a member and past master of Mine Lodge No. 117, Ancient Free Masons, Royal Arch Masons, Keystone Chapter No. 27, State of Connecticut, Knights Templar of Connecticut, St. Elmo Commanders No. 9, Jaguar Club of North America and a Shriner.
    Survivors include his wife; two sons: Robert Ashborn, of Castaic, California, and Scott Ashborn, of Bristol, Connecticut; two daughters: Amy Guglielmi, of Oakville, Connecticut, and Rae Zabit, of Goshen, Connecticut; two step-daughters: Sharon Pipke, of Terryville, Connecticut and Connie Rosengren, of Thomaston, Connecticut; two sisters: Joan Johnson, of Prospect, Connecticut, and Nancy Travis, of Sun City West, Arizona; seven grandchildren; four great-grandchildren.
    Private family services were held at the Waterbury Cemetery, Waterbury, Connecticut. Memorials may be made to HospiceCare of the Piedmont, 408 W. Alexander Ave., Greenwood, South Carolina 29646. Strom Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.


             His widow, Helen Ashborn, contacted Steve Thompson and wrote: "Alcott enjoyed the club so much and the fellowship with all you people talking about planes."
Published in The McCormick Messenger on 8/10/2006.
 
(RETURN TO TOP)
 

 
Keith Brock
Keith Griffith Brock 

Keith Brock died on August first after a long illness. He came to Augusta as an FAA Air Traffic Controller at Bush Field, Augusta, Georgia. It didn't take long to see that Keith was a dynamic, highly vocal aviation enthusiast of unusual caliber.  We saw his potential as a chapter officer, and he was elected Vice President in short order.  He was diagnosed later with a terminal illness and was given a medical retirement.  This hardly slowed him down.  He was a consummate volunteer at fly-ins -- including Sun'n Fun -- and operated an implement business, built a fixed base aviation operation at the Millen, Georgia, airport, and was responsible for Chapter 172's most successful "Low Country Boil" fly-ins annually held at the Millen airport. These were just a few of his accomplishments.  "Never Say Die" must have been his motto. He lived to the end. May Keith Brock rest in pease. We will miss him.

Keith Griffith Brock, age 49, entered into rest, Tuesday, August 1, 2006, at his residence in Perkins, Georgia. Family members include his wife Gina Brock of Perkins, Ga.; three sons, Kevin Brock and Kesler Brock both of Perkins, Ga., Damon Brock of Callahan, Fl.; parents Edwin and Diana Brock of Melrose, Fl., and one brother Dean Brock of Naples, Fl. Mr. Brock lived in Perkins, Ga. for the past thirteen years. He was an air traffic controller for the U.S. Government, a veteran of the U.S. Army and a member of St. Michael's Episcopal Church. A requiem mass was held at 11:00 am Saturday, August 5, 2006 at St. Michael's Episcopal Church in Waynesboro, Ga. with Fr. Steve Rice celebrant. Address: 515 S. Liberty St., Waynesboro, GA, (706) 554-3465. The family received friends in the Parish Hall following the service. Poteet Funeral Homes, 3465 Peach Orchard Road, Augusta, Ga. 30906  (706)798-8886

After the service, several pilots took to the air over Keith's beloved Millen airport and spread Keith's ashes over the field.
For a map and directions to St. Michael's Church, click: St. Michael's Church, Waynesboro

Published in The Augusta Chronicle on 8/3/2006.


(RETURN TO TOP)

 
July, 2006
Minutes of the Meeting for EAA Chapter 172 for July 8,  2006
Cold Cuts Fly-in
We had great weather. More than 50 members, spouses, family, and visitors were there. There were more than a dozen aircraft on the field. The principal aircraft were Cessnas and RVs. Cale Odom and Steven Dixon came in a Cessna 150.  Steve Thompson and Dennis Allen had their Cessna 172s. Bill Couch came in his Cessna 185. Glenn Bridges flew in his RV-4. Pierre Smith came in his RV6-A. Ralph Sandeford came in his RV-7. Charlie Connell had his RV-8A. Mike Hendrick came in his Piper Colt. Jack Bombard brought his Ercoupe. Greg Connell came in his Pitts.

We enjoyed delicious cold cuts set out by the Aerospouses. At 1:03 PM Al Newman gave the invocation for the meal and everyone ate. We had a short business meeting toward the end of the meal. It was called to order by club president Steve Thompson at 1:38 PM. Treasurer Don Bush said that we had $237 in the Kitty. The food for the meal only cost about $64. We still have the utility bills to pay. Also we have to pay out $145 for the TV repair. But with the added funds to the club treasury we should have no financial problems.
                            
Old Business: Larry Garner said that he brought back the clubhouse TV set which had been repaired. It had cost a bit more than he expected because of unforseen repair problems.
 
New Business: Steve said that several members were going to work on the interior walls of the clubhouse on the upcoming Wednesday. He said the he, Don Bush, Larry Garner, Gary Harden and Tom Whisnant will work on putting in the insulation and drywall.

Member Pierre Smith told us that he is now an EAA Flight Advisor. He is also a Transistional Training Instructor for the RV-6, RV-7, RV-8, and RV-9. This is required by most insurance companies so you can insure your RV6/7/8/9. You can reach Pierre at 478-625-7453 or e-mail him at luckypierre54@aol.com  
 
Don Bush mentioned that there were a number of fine eating places in the Metter area.
  
Al Newman moved that the meeting adjourn. Don Bush seconded the motion and it passed unanimously. The meeting adjourned at 1:47 PM.
 
(RETURN TO TOP)

 June, 2006
Minutes of the Meeting for EAA Chapter 172 for June 10,  2006
Before the meeting we enjoyed delicious chicken and side dishes set out by the Aerospouses Fay Allen, Marlyn Couch, Polly Powell and Maureen Rhodes. At 1:00 PM Al Newman gave the invocation for the meal and everyone ate. The business meeting was called to order by club vice-president Larry Garner at 1:31 PM. There were 31 members, family and guests at the meeting. The guest was Dennis Baker who also joined EAA 172. He is from North Augusta.  The club also welcomed new member Sandy Howard. Treasurer Don Bush said that all the accounts are in order and that there was $205 in the Kitty.
                            
Old Business: The members discussed the clubhouse work which had been done. We again discussed the cost, which may take most of the $4000 or so we have in the treasury. However, Secretary John Magnan presented the club with the donation that Allene Brown, O.B. Brown’s widow, had given the club. It was for $500 and was in honor of O.B. Brown and intended to help defray the club’s expenses for the clubhouse rebuilding. Al Patton also donated $500 for the side doors for the clubhouse. Members suggested making a plaque to recognize those who have donated to the clubhouse rebuilding.
 
We also talked about the TV set which the members had discussed a few months ago. It no longer works. The choice we have is to fix it or buy a new one. A new one would cost perhaps $300. Larry Garner said that he has a contact who possibly could repair our TV for around $70. Don Bush moved to spend $100 to repair the set. John Magnan seconded the motion and it passed. 
 
New Business: Larry said that Richard McGahee will be going back to Iraq in July. Larry also mentioned that Charlie Davis is quite weak and is at Doctor’s Hospital. Perhaps members could visit him.
  
Garner talked about the Boshears-Skyfest (October 21-22). He said that there will be no jet truck, because of the cost involved to have it there. There also will be no Flying Farmer but the Firebirds will be there as well as the Super Decathlon. Ryan Evans will be there with large scale radio controlled aircraft.
 
Dr. Jowers talked about the air medical meeting he had attended. The FAA has approved five years on a third class medical. There is nothing new on the Sport Pilot rules. He did say that he can approve more conditions for the medical.
 
Gerald Ballard said that there will be a barbecue/pig pickin’ at the Twin Lakes airport on July 4th. He said that the runway there should be finished by that time. If not, people could just drive in. The food will be served around 1:00 PM in his hangar.

Al Newman moved that the meeting adjourn. Don Bush seconded the motion and it passed unanimously. The meeting adjourned at 2:07 PM.


 
Charlie Davis
Charles "Charlie" Davis, Jr.  
Founder of Davis Hauling & Augusta Ready Mix, Augusta, Georgia- Mr. Charles Davis Jr., age 74, husband of Mrs. Mary Joe Kemp Davis, died at University Hospital on Monday, June 12, 2006. Graveside services will be held on Friday, June 16, 2006, at 11:00 a.m. in Westover Memorial Park with Dr. David Fleming officiating. Additional survivors include: one son, Charles " Terry" Davis and his wife Elaine of Augusta, one daughter, Karen D. Hunt and her husband Eddie of Aiken, two brothers. Don Davis of Asheville, N.C., Jack Davis of Hickory, N.C. Five sisters, Pat Lytle , Lois Mansfield, Betty Padgett, Pam Hensley all of Marion, N.C. and Rachael Queen of Asheville, N.C. Two grandchildren, Kyle Davis and Chad Davis. Memorials may be made to the Evans Vocational Fund @ Evans High School, 4550 Cox Rd. Evans, GA. 30809 or to the American Cancer Society, 2623 Washington Rd. Augusta, GA. 30904. The family will be receiving friends at the funeral home Thursday evening June 15,2006, from 6 until 9 p.m. at Platt's Funeral Home, 337 N. Belair Rd., Evans, Ga., 30809 (706) 860-6166.
Published in The Augusta Chronicle on 6/14/2006.


(RETURN TO TOP)



 May, 2006
Minutes of the Meeting for EAA Chapter 172 for May 13,  2006
Before the meeting we enjoyed delicious hamburgers and hot dogs grilled by Steve Thompson and set out by the Aerospouses. At 1:00 PM President Thompson gave the invocation for the meal and everyone ate. The business meeting was called to order by club president Steve Thompson at 1:50 PM.  We had sparse attendance: There were only 12 members and family at the meeting. The speculation was that many members figured that the Wrens Fly-in was the May meeting and did not read the newsletter which announced the May 13th meeting.  Treasurer Don Bush said that all the accounts are in order and that there was $40 in the Kitty.
                            
Old Business: Steve said (and the members could see) that Vern Rikard had finished putting up the exterior walls with steel siding on the clubhouse sides. The side closest to the food trailer has a large door which could be used to put in the trailer and take out furniture. Charlie Connell had donated a $300 roll-up door which will be installed in the place of the temporary door. Gary Harden and others will put in the new door. The opposite side has no door, only windows. The front of the clubhouse will remain wood, as it is now. Some steel siding will be installed on the back of the clubhouse.  There will be new hot water heaters in both restrooms.  The windows that have been put in are not double pane, but they were free. The vinyl soffit is at the Pea Patch but it has not yet been installed.
 
New Business: Steve asked the members how they wanted to finish the interior of the clubhouse, now that the outside walls had been constructed. He said that insulation will be put in. Charlie said that it would cost about $100. Then drywall (gypsum wallboard) will be installed. Steve has some joint tape for that. There were a number of suggestions. John Magnan suggested a wallpaper with an aircraft motif – but that idea was shot down because it would cost too much. Steve asked the members if he could just paint the walls. The members agreed. As for the color?  Steve said that any paint that he could get cheap would be what would be used even if it happens to be hot pink, yellow or putrid puce!  Members agreed to that, too. The members also discussed the total cost of the renovations. We are dipping deep into our funds, according to treasurer Don Bush.  There was a discussion about whether we might assess members, perhaps $5 or $10.  More discussion of the fund shortage was tabled until the next meeting when Don will have the final cost of the renovation.

Don Bush moved that the meeting adjourn. Bruce Cameron seconded the motion and it passed unanimously. The meeting adjourned at 2:20 PM.
 

The Wrens, O.B. Brown Memorial Fly-in
Finally we had some decent weather for the Wrens Fly-in.  However, possibly the increased Avgas cost kept the aircraft attendance to 17.  The field and hangar preparations for the fly-in, including the mowing, were done by Sidney Brown, his son, Benjamin, Ralph Powell, Mark Slone and John Magnan.

On Friday evening we had a fine “bring your own meat” meal attended by 20-30 club members. President Thompson had baked the potatoes and members brought side dishes.  Steve grilled the various meats that members had brought.  During the next day we had a number of visitors from the local town. Maureen Rhodes and the Aerospouses handled the food trailer.

Among those who flew in to the fly-in were, in order of appearance: Duane Brooks (Stapleton) in his Rans S-12; Sidney Brown in his Challenger I; Bill Couch in his Cessna 185 Skywagon; Charlie Connell in his RV-8A; John Sligar in his Rans S-14; Don Murphy in his Skyraider; Steve Thompson in his Cessna 172; Gary Waggoner in his Titan Tornado II; Larry Garner in his Piper Cherokee 140B; Freeman Newman in the family Aeronca Champ; Pat Kirkland (Twin Lakes) in his Cessna 172 Skyhawk; Ralph Powell in his Nieuport 11; Jerry Berger in his RV-6; Betty & Ray Trenter in their Cessna 150; Greg Connell in his Pitts S-2C; Brian Hanson (Louisville, GA) in his Zenith CH100; Don Bush in his Cherokee 140/160. Perhaps the highlight of the fly-in was the first “public” flying of Ralph Powell in his Nieuport 11 which he had completed a couple years ago.


Wrens Fly-in Comments
by Al "Baldo" Patton
The Fly-in was made even more interesting with the flight of Ralph Powell's Nieuport 11. It is powered by Rodney Jackson's old 65 hp Lycoming rescued from Rodney's Taylorcraft that formerly graced the Wrens airport ramp for years.  Of course the engine was overhauled and adapted to the Nieuport by Ralph and his remarkable ability to innovate. Performance is greatly enhanced in comparison with the VW powered "Graham Lee" plan-built Nieuports. The flight was the hit of the day. ( to read about Ralph's Nieuport construction, click on Nieuport 11)

Another attraction was the arrival of a rare Zenith CH100. It is a single place, all metal, trigear, low wing, VW powered -- complete with starter -- aircraft. Although Brian Hanson arrived with a flat nose wheel tire, Sid Brown helped fix the offending tire to enable the aircraft to fly home. Recently, on a flight from the Pea Patch, the little Zenith showed it could handle cross winds and obstacles very well.

The Fly-in is appropriately named the O.B Brown Memorial. He was a most dedicated and capable person who never sought recognition for his efforts. His love for flying was personified by flights on the windy days when no one else would be flying. On those days we at the Pea Patch would say " it's just about right for OB" and sure enough, the little Challenger would come in, with O.B. enjoying every minute of it.

O.B. Brown was involved in the Wrens airport for a long time. If there are any thoughts of naming the Wrens airport for an individual, I would strongly suggest naming it O.B. Brown Field.
(to read about O.B. Brown's life and passing, click on O.B. Brown)

 
(RETURN TO TOP)

April,  2006
Minutes of the Meeting for EAA Chapter 172 for April 1,  2006
Before the meeting we enjoyed delicious sausages and hamburgers grilled by EAA 172 president Steve Thompson. The food was set out by the Aerospouses. Maureen Rhodes, the club Social Director, had decorated the clubhouse with Easter decorations and put Easter candies on the table. At 1:09 PM Steve Thompson gave the invocation for the meal and everyone ate. There were 27 members, family and guests at the meeting.  The beginning was delayed because many members had gathered around visitor Ralph Sandeford’s brilliant white and phosphorescent orange RV-7. Ralph is from Midville. The business meeting was called to order by club president Steve Thompson at 1:41 PM. Treasurer Don Bush said that all the accounts are in order and that there was $80 in the Kitty. Club members welcomed new member Mark Sevier.
                            
Old Business: Steve said that Vern Rikard had worked on the soffit and fascia for the clubhouse and that all the new siding should be on before the next meeting.
 
New Business: At the meeting Larry Garner discussed the Boshears Skyfest.  He said that the Boshears committee had just met on the previous Thursday and decided the 2006 Boshears Skyfest will be on the third weekend of October: the 21st and 22nd.  Larry said that there would be some changes. Last year the Boshears Skyfest lost a few thousand dollars. There will not be a jet truck this year because it costs around $8000. There were some questions about the Chairman’s tent. The food there will have to be better to make it worth the extra fee people pay for using it. The Boshears committee is asking for donations this year so they don’t go into the red again.
 
We discussed the Wrens Fly-in which will be on Saturday, May 6th, with the usual evening meal on Friday, May 5th.  The food trailer will be there on Saturday.
 
Charlie Connell moved that the meeting adjourn. Bruce Cameron seconded the motion and it passed unanimously. The meeting adjourned at 2:18 PM. 
 
(RETURN TO TOP)

   March,  2006
Fry & Fly fly-in
Minutes of the Meeting for EAA Chapter 172 for March 11,  2006

Before the meal more than fifteen aircraft flew in, with Bill Couch, from Dewy Rose,  with his Cessna 185, as the first pilot to land. He was followed soon after by Thurmon Kent with his Cessna 120. Other who flew in included Gerald Ballard in his Baron “Salvage I”, Dave Gardner (Trenton) with his Rans S12, Terry Stout in his Titan, John Sligar in his Rans S-14, Peggy & Duane Brooks in his Rans S-12, Steve Rollins in his Challenger I,  Freeman Newman in the Newman Tri-Pacer, Gary Ward with his Cessna 140, Steve Hawley (Orangeburg) in his Thorp T-18, Ed Booth (Trenton) in his RV-7, and Bill Waters and Bobby Knox (Loganville) in an RV-8.  The weather was great -- warm and sunny! The fish, french fries and hushpuppies were fried by Steve Thompson, Dennis Allen, Gary Harden, Everett Parks and Hunter Rhodes. Dennis Allen offered visitors boiled peanuts prepared using his secret family recipe. The side dishes were set out by the Aerospouses - Maureen Rhodes, Fay Allen, Sheila Connell and Shirley Harden. The fish-fry meal started at 1:08 PM. Al Newman gave the invocation for the meal. There were between 90-100 members, family and visitors at the meal. The only business transacted at the meal was by the Treasurer, Don Bush. He took dues, paid bills and said that the meal cost around $341 and the Kitty received $365 and so was able to cover the cost.

(RETURN TO TOP)  
 

  February,  2006
Minutes of the Meeting for EAA Chapter 172 for February 11,  2006
Before the meeting we enjoyed delicious chili prepared by our club president, Steve Thompson.  The chili and side dishes were set out by the Aerospouses. They also put Valentine’s Day candies on the tables. Social Director Maureen Rhodes had decorated the clubhouse the night before.  At 1:00 PM Al Newman gave the invocation for the meal and everyone ate. There were 24 members, family and guests at the meeting.  The business meeting was called to order by club president Steve Thompson at 1:33 PM. Treasurer Don Bush said that all the accounts are in order and that there was $103 in the Kitty. Steve said that work had not been done on the clubhouse because there was a difficulty getting members out to do it.
                              
Old Business: Pea Patch Corporation president, Charlie Connell, said that rumors had been going around that visiting aircraft were not welcome at the Pea Patch. He said that all pilots are welcome to fly in to the Pea Patch “we enjoy having people fly in.” Charlie also said that he is ready to get his RV-8 up.

Sheila Connell reminded everyone about the fourth Thursday EAA 172 “Night Out” social gathering.
 
Steve asked about a new American flag for the clubhouse. Larry Garner said the flag was the one hanging in the meeting room.

New Business: The members discussed the requirements by the FAA that all aircraft owners should make sure their aircraft registrations were up-to-date with the correct owner names, addresses, etc.
 
Keith Brock said that the Millen Airport will be closed for two months in April and May. They will be widening the runway 15 feet to 75 feet and also putting in a parallel taxiway.

Members also talked about the overflying of Millen and surrounding areas by aircraft from Shaw Air Force Base.  Al Newman said that we need a new, up-to-date roster of members.
 
We discussed the Fish Fry Fly-in which will be on Saturday, March 11th. Larry Garner said that he can order the fish but someone else will have to pick it up. The members decided on getting 75 pounds of catfish, whiting and flounder.

 
Al Newman moved that the meeting adjourn. John Magnan seconded the motion and it passed unanimously. The meeting adjourned at 1:55 PM.

Charlie Connell's RV-8 in Flight!
by Steve Thompson
On hand were thousands of screaming onlookers (perhaps a slight exaggeration) as Charlie Connell test flew his newly constructed RV-8 over the skies of nearby Blythe, Georgia, on February 17th, 2006. Charlie reported that upon doing one high speed taxi test, he turned around for takeoff on runway 18 at the Pea Patch International (he had already run the engine for over an hour of taxiing the previous couple of weeks). Running up the engine for a static test proved the engine was doing its job as it dragged the airframe down the runway.  Takeoff was very brisk and climb-out close to my '57 Cessna 172 at around 2000 feet per minute. Leveling off at around 5,000 feet, he reported cruise in the 200 mph range ±5 mph. He reported flying for around 15 minutes, and it flew hands-off, very stable, although there was a crosswind at the time. Landing was smooth, as reported by our Tech Counselor, Aldine Patton.  No leaks whatsoever. The only anomaly was a buzz coming from the back. Suspected was the passenger seat belt adjustment buckle.

Congratulations to Charlie, and as promised, I won't mention his being a bit nervous and over-speeding the engine a bit. He has had three more successful flights since then.

 
(RETURN TO TOP)  


  January,  2006
Minutes of the Meeting for EAA Chapter 172 for January 14,  2006
Also, the Board of Directors Meeting
Before the meeting we enjoyed fantastic hot vegetable & ham soup prepared by our club president, Steve Thompson.  The meat and side dishes were set out by the Aerospouses. At 1:01 PM Al Newman gave the invocation for the meal and everyone ate. There were 35 members,  family and guests at the meeting.  The guests were R. O. Fleming, Charles Parker and Margaret Richardson.  Charles Parker joined EAA 172 after the meeting. The business meeting (which was also the Board of Directors meeting) was called to order by club president Steve Thompson at 1:40 PM. Treasurer Don Bush said that all the accounts are in order and that there was $101 in the Kitty.
                              
Old Business: Al Newman mentioned that it was a somewhat sparse Kitty for the number of members who attended. Steve said that Larry Garner is getting a new flag for us. Also the work on the clubhouse should commence by the end of this month. The wall on the side near the food trailer will be completely closed up. A large door will be in the opposite wall so that a trailer or whatever can be brought into the clubhouse.

New Business: The members discussed the need to get “new blood” into the club.  They discussed various ways to do this. Bob Rhodes (jokingly, it is presumed) said that we should have dancing girls at the meetings. Al Newman suggested contacting the past members who had not re-joined. Al Patton said that he had done this in the past and does send out extra newsletters occasionally to these lapsed members. Maureen Rhodes  suggested that we contact the Civil Air Patrol at Daniel Field. Steve told the members that if they know of  anyone who is building or flying an aircraft they should give that person an invite to the meeting and possibly influence that person to join the club.
 
Members discussed the meeting day and agreed that Saturday was better. So a motion was made to have all EAA 172 meetings on the second Saturday of the month at 1:00 PM. The only exceptions would be this year for April. Because Sun’n Fun starts the second week of April (on Tuesday, the 4th)  the EAA 172 meeting would be on Saturday, April 1st. Also, since the Millen Fly-in is on the second Saturday of November(the 11th), we will have a Thursday evening meeting on November 9th so we can make preparations for it. The motion passed unanimously.
 
We set the calendar for 2006. The Fish Fry Fly-in will be Saturday, March 11th. The Wrens Fly-in will be Friday-Saturday, May 5-6. The Cold Cuts Fly-in will be Saturday, July 8th. The Millen Fly-in will be Saturday, November 11th.  Bob Rhodes said that the Rhodes fly-in will be the second Sunday in September.  
 
Al Newman moved that the meeting adjourn. John Magnan seconded the motion and it passed unanimously. The meeting adjourned at 2:09 PM.

(RETURN TO TOP)
 

December,  2005
EAA Chapter 172 Christmas Party, December 10,  2005
There was no regular meeting. The Christmas Party was held at the EAA 172 Clubhouse at the Pea Patch Aerodrome. More than 50 members and guests attended. The weather was great. By noon there were already three aircraft on the field. There were nine aircraft in by 1:00 PM. Charlie Connell handled the ground radio for those flying in. The meal started about 1:10 PM with a well-stocked buffet table with turkey, ham and trimmings, side dishes and desserts. Maureen Rhodes and the Aerospouses put on the table settings and set out the buffet. Steve Thompson assisted in the food preparations.
 
Al Newman gave the invocation and the eating began.  After nearly an hour of dinner President Steve Thompson awarded framed certificates to the officers, flight advisor, tech counselor, flying start coordinator and the Web editor. He then awarded Walmart Gift Cards to five club members for “OUTSTANDING SERVICE AND DEVOTION TO EAA CHAPTER 172, 2005.” These members were: 

                               
Fay Allen
Sheila Connell
Gary Harden
John Magnan
Maureen Rhodes

 
President Thompson thanked everyone for the toys given for the MCG children. He also thanked Greg Connell for the heating and cooling work done at the clubhouse. Steve reminded everyone about the EAA 172 $20 dues that should be given or mailed to Treasurer Don Bush. Don reported that he received $140 in the Kitty for the day and the accounts were fine. He and Keith Brock said that the Millen fly-in broke even – we took in $700 and spent about $700. Keith Brock thanked all who helped out at the Millen fly-in. Keith also said that he has sheets of ten foot steel siding which the club is going to purchase (approved at an earlier meeting) to put on the outside of the clubhouse.
 
Members discussed getting a shop vacuum. A motion was made, seconded and approved to purchase one. Also, the current TV set needs to be replaced. John Magnan moved and Don Bush seconded purchasing a TV with a screen around 35" for better viewing by a group. The motion was approved by the membership.
 
Al Newman moved that the meeting adjourn. John Magnan seconded the motion and the meeting adjourned at 2:11 PM. After the meeting many members attended Gerald Ballard’s Christmas Party at his Twin Lakes hangar. That party started at 6:30 PM.


(RETURN TO TOP)

 
November,  2005
The Low Country Boil Fly-in, November 12,  2005
We finally got some beautiful weather at the Millen fly-in after two years of less than ideal weather. By noon there were more than thirty aircraft on the field. The first aircraft in was Danny Tyre’s Challenger Light Sport, which came in on the evening before. Danny camped overnight. The light plane/ultralight groups that flew in included those from the Pea Patch, Trenton, Warner Robbins and Wrens. By the end of the day more than 60 aircraft had flown in. There was a wide variety of aircraft: Aeroncas, a Carbon Baby Ace, Cessnas, Challengers, a Citabria, Kolb, Firestars, a N-3 Pup, a R-44 helicopter, many Rans, RVs of all types, a SeaRey, a SkyRaider, a Stinson, a Taylorcraft, a Titan,  a Tucan Trike, a Waco. Steve Thompson, EAA 172 President, wrote: "While there were several show winning aircraft in attendance, the show stoppers were the 1937 Waco and the forties vintage Stinson."
 
More than 150 members, family and visitors enjoyed the low country boil meal at 1:00 PM. In addition to the ultralight groups we were treated with visits from many EAA 330 (Briar Patch) members. Maureen Rhodes and the Aerospouses prepared the low-country boil meal and were helped out by Debby Cummings (Bill Couch’s daughter) and a number of the men including Dennis Allen, Sid Brown, Randy Powell and Steve Thompson. Many other club members helped out on the field and getting auto gas for the flyers whose aircraft needed some
month.
(RETURN TO TOP)
 
 
Minutes of the Meeting for EAA Chapter 172 for November 10,  2005
Before the meeting we enjoyed an excellent meal of hot dogs and hamburgers prepared by Steve Thompson. The meat and side dishes were set out by the Aerospouses. At 6:35 PM Al Newman gave the invocation for the meal and everyone ate. There were 31 members,  family and guests at the meeting.  The guest was Tony Newman who joined EAA 172 after the meeting. The business meeting was called to order by club president Steve Thompson at 7:09 PM. Treasurer Don Bush said that all the accounts are in order and that there was $147 in the Kitty and we have more than $4000 in the bank account which should take care of the repairs and renovations of the clubhouse. Don reported that at Boshears the food trailer netted $781.34 and the people mover received $157.44 in donations.
                              
Old Business: Don Bush said that he had a good experience with the Thomson airport and Spirit Aviation. The owner assisted repairs on his plane went extremely well.
 
Gerald Ballard reminded everyone that he will again have a Christmas party at his hangar at the Twin Lakes, South Carolina, airpark. It will be on Saturday, December 10th, starting around 6:30 PM. As usual, the “admission fee” is one unwrapped toy for the Toy For Tots program.
 
New Business: We discussed any needs for the Low Country Boil fly-in at the Millen airport on Saturday, November 10th. We had a discussion about the cost of the low country boil meal and how much should be charged. The outcome was that we would charge $5 per plate which would be prepared ahead of time by the Aerospouses rather than have people fill up plates themselves. At the fly-in Sheila Connell will greet the pilots, Blair Kendall will handle the airplane parking and Charlie Connell will man the radio. Keith Brock reminded everyone that the restrooms in the hangar will be for the ladies. The men will use the portalet.

We had the election for the 2006 EAA 172 Officers. Al Patton moved and Keith Brock seconded that we have the same officers as we had for 2005. The motion passed unanimously. So, for 2006, the President will be Steve Thompson, the Vice-president will be Larry Garner, the Secretary will be John Magnan and the Treasurer will be Don Bush.  Maureen Rhodes said that next year will be her last year as Social Director.

Al Newman moved that the meeting adjourn. Don Bush seconded the motion and it passed unanimously. The meeting adjourned at 8:01 PM. After the meeting the members loaded up the trailer with the tables and chairs for the Millen fly-in. After that some stayed and watched Tony Newman fly his realistic remote control helicopter in the front room of the clubhouse.

(RETURN TO TOP)
 

 October,  2005
The Boshears SkyFest 2005

 
The 2005 Boshears Airshow & Fly-in October 15-16, 2005 
We had beautiful weather for both days of the 2005 Boshears-Skyfest which took place at Daniel Field (DNL) on Saturday-Sunday, October 15-16.

The food trailer, under the direction of Social Director Maureen Rhodes, paid for its supplies and added to the Club's coffers. Club Logistics Director Gary Harden, along with President Steve Thompson and other members, set things up on the Friday before Boshears. The People Movers, under the direction of John Magnan,  had a sufficient number of  volunteers both days of Boshears. The donations were more than the past couple years and also contributed, after expenses, to the Club's treasury. The John Deere tractor-pulled flatbed trailers with seats were operating continuously throughout Boshears-Skyfest 2005. The flight line crew, under the direction of Tom Collins, did an excellent job of directing aircraft on the
ground. The aerial acts, arranged for by Larry Garner, were the main attractions. The acts  included club member Gary Ward and his Giles 202.
 
The History Tent -- now the Betty Holmes History Tent -- had a high volume of visitors because of the memorial to her as well as the photos of the history of Daniel Field, World War II and Korean War pilots, scenes and aircraft. The displays were enhanced by the presence of those who were in those conflicts: World War II & Korean War veteran pilots Phil Colman, Joe Miles and Al Patton who manned it continuously throughout the weekend.
 
This year we had nearly 100 aircraft fly in. There were many ultralights and light planes from the Trenton, South Carolina, as well as the Jefferson County group.
month.
 
(RETURN TO TOP)


October 13,  2005
Minutes of the Meeting for EAA Chapter 172 for October 13,  2005
Before the meeting we enjoyed an excellent meal, as usual.  The meat and side dishes were set out by the Aerospouses. At 6:50 PM Al Newman gave the invocation for the meal and everyone ate. There were 36 members and guests at the meeting. The guest was Hector J. Mallar, an optometrist. After the meeting Hector joined EAA 172. Other recent new members were Edward A. Blanchard of Brooklet, Georgia, and Bryan Powell of Waynesboro, Georgia. The business meeting was called to order by club president Steve Thompson  at 7:25 PM. Treasurer Don Bush said that all the accounts are in order and that there was $170 in the Kitty. Steve said that he has the annual EAA report that anyone can look at. Harrison Ford has agreed to be the spokesman for the Young Eagles program for another two years.
                              
Old Business: The work on the clubhouse renovation will be starting in two or three weeks.
 
New Business: Steve said that we will still have the regular Low Country Boil (not chili) fly-in at the Millen airport on November 10th. He, and a few others, will be there around 9:00 AM to start things up. Keith Brock said that he will need more help this year. Perhaps some members could come on Friday, especially, or even Wednesday or Thursday before the fly-in, to help him prepare for the fly-in.  Keith asked that the club pay for only one portalet this year. John Magnan moved that the club pay for the portalet. Jim McBurney seconded the motion and it passed unanimously. Keith also asked that people come early and fly a bit before the 1:00 PM meal. He said that he would need about eight tables and 30 chairs. These will be brought by the 20 foot people mover trailer.
 
Gerald Ballard said that he will again have a Christmas party at his hangar at the Twin Lakes, South Carolina, airpark. It will be on Saturday, December 10th, starting around 6:30 PM. As usual, the “admission fee” is one unwrapped toy for the Toy For Tots program.
 
Larry Garner discussed the Boshears-Skyfest 2005 fly-in and airshow, scheduled for Saturday & Sunday, October 15-16. The airshow needs four people to volunteer to help out with the glider airshow act. They will need to be available for one day before the airshow to learn their responsibilities. Larry said that the F-86 is coming but the C-45 visit has been canceled. There will be a car show there only on Sunday. On Saturday the Women & Wheels club will be there with their motorcycles. Daniel Field will close to air traffic at 12:45 PM and open again around 4:45 PM each day. Larry is the Air Boss and Keith Brock will be the assistant Air Boss.
      
Al Newman moved that the meeting adjourn. John Magnan seconded the motion and it passed unanimously. The meeting adjourned at 7:54 PM. After the meeting the members loaded up the trailer with the tents, tables and chairs for the Boshears fly-in.

(RETURN TO TOP)

September 8,  2005
Minutes of the Meeting for EAA Chapter 172 for September 8,  2005
Before the meeting we enjoyed a tasty meal of "slow cooked pork tenderloin" prepared by Steve Thompson.  The meat and side dishes were set out by the Aerospouses. At 6:45 PM Al Newman gave the invocation for the meal and everyone ate. There were 34 members and guests at the meeting. The guests were Marcus Jakob’s father and mother, Werner and Christa. The business meeting was called to order by club president Steve Thompson  at 7:29 PM. Treasurer Don Bush said that all the accounts are in order. Steve said that Al Patton’s wife, Hazel, was in the hospital for a biopsy so Al was not here today. Steve said that the club had received a card from Fay Allen thanking the club for remembering her father who passed away on August 17th. The Vidalia Sweet Onion Aviators EAA Chapter 1332 4th Annual Fly-in would be September 17th. Bob Rhodes said there was a Washington-Wilkes air show on October 8th.
                              
Old Business: Bob Rhodes reminded everyone about the Rhodes Barbecue on Sunday, September 11th, at 1:00 pm.
 
Larry Garner said that John Moody, the ultralight aerobatic pilot who was injured last year at Boshears, was healing slowly. He had no insurance and would appreciate any financial help.
 
New Business: Sheila Connell said that the next EAA 172 “night out” will be September 22nd at the Country Boyz BBQ near Waynesboro. She handed out maps to show how to get there from Augusta.
 
The club discussed the upcoming Boshears Skyfest (at Daniel Field on October 15-16). Larry Garner talked about the different aerobatic acts that will be there. He said that this will probably be the “Flying Farmer” Charlie Culp’s last show. He’s retiring from the airshow circuit. Some say it is because of poor health or it could be that he is around 87 years old. Larry said that some military flights may be canceled because the aircraft were being used for hurricane recovery work.  But the other scheduled acts will be there including member Gary Ward and his Giles 202.
 
Maureen Rhodes and the Aerospouses will have their food trailer there. Phil Colman, Joe Miles, and Al Patton will set up and man the History Tent. John Magnan will set up both people mover trailers and arrange for drivers. Many of our members will handle the flight line responsibilities.

We discussed some items pertaining to the Millen Fly-in, scheduled for November 12th. Some said that shrimp is getting very expensive and the hurricane may increase the price even more. Members talked about a substitute for the “Low Country Boil” meal. One said we could have chili instead. Steve said that we would table the issue until the next meeting.
      
Al Newman moved that the meeting adjourn. Don Bush seconded the motion and it passed unanimously. The meeting adjourned at 7:53 PM.

(RETURN TO TOP)

August 11,  2005
Minutes of the Meeting for EAA Chapter 172 for August 11,  2005
Before the meeting we enjoyed an excellent meal of grilled hot dogs and hamburgers prepared by Maureen Rhodes and John Magnan.  The trimmings and side dishes were set out by the Aerospouses. There were 33 members and guests at the meeting. At 6:30 PM Bob Rhodes gave a moving invocation for the meal and everyone ate. Since both the president and vice-president had to be out of town, the business meeting was called to order by club secretary John Magnan  at 7:15 PM. Treasurer Don Bush said that all the accounts are in order and that there was $135 in the Kitty. John mentioned the upcoming South Carolina Breakfast Club meetings at Aiken, on August 14th, at Camden on August  28th and at Florence on September 11th. He said that EAA 330 was going to have a fly-in meeting on Saturday, August 20th at the Briar Patch airfield. They will have a low-country boil meal around noon. John asked the members to correct their newsletter directory information with any changes such as a change of spouse. He also mentioned that Boshears-Skyfest would be at Daniel Field October 15-16.
                              
Old Business: As discussed at the last meeting, Sheila Connell was starting up the club Social Meetings again. These will be on the fourth Thursday at 6:30 PM at a local restaurant. This month it will be at the Fatz Café on August 25.


Bob Rhodes handed out flyers with a map and directions to the Rhodes Barbecue. It is to be held on Sunday, September 11, starting at 1:00 PM, but the handout reads that “games begin at 8:00 PM on Saturday.”
 
New Business: Gerald Ballard said that he was pushing to make the fly-in at Lumberton, North Carolina, the substitute fly-in for Sun’n Fun. This year the fly-in, called the Mid-Atlantic Fly-in and Sport Aviation Convention, was held Thursday-Sunday, May 12-15. It was advertised as being “A grass roots sport aviation fly-in. Safe, fun, educational family-friendly, and affordable.” Gerald stressed the friendly and affordable, since for many people, Sun’n Fun, with $3 bottles of water, is definitely not affordable. Next year the Lumberton fly-in will be May 18-21.
 
Kinsey Butler handed out Spirit Aviation mugs to all those present. This was to introduce the “new” Thomson-McDuffie Regional Airport. It is under new, enlightened management. There is now a place for aviators to work on their aircraft. Kinsey said that management is now doing everything possible to make the Thomson airport a comfortable and friendly place for aircraft owners.

   
Program: Dennis Allen led a discussion about Oshkosh.  He seemed to have more adventures getting there than at the fly-in itself! Dennis said he was able to find the Brick that the club had purchased to honor Al Patton. He passed around photos he took there.

Al Newman moved that the meeting adjourn. Don Bush seconded the motion and it passed unanimously. The meeting adjourned at 7:48 PM.


(RETURN TO TOP)

July 9,  2005
 The Cold Cuts Fly-in  
Minutes of the Meeting for EAA Chapter 172 for July 9,  2005
Rather than a regular meeting we had the Saturday Cold Cuts Fly-in. About 50 members, family and guests were at the fly-in. There was a great assortment of cold meats, salads and side dishes. These were prepared by Steve Thompson, Richard Fender and Sheila Connell and set out by the Aerospouses. John Magnan prepared the tea, ably assisted by Bryson and Shelby McNeal, Jean and Earl Hildebrant’s great-grandchildren.  During the meal the movie Red Baron played on the TV set. The Red Baron is a documentary about Manfred Von Richthofen with much WW I movie footage along with interviews of both Allied and German WW I pilots. After the meal, which started at 12:55 PM with an invocation by Al Newman, we had a short business meeting at 1:30 PM which was called to order by President Steve Thompson. He said work was going to be done on the siding for the Clubhouse.  Steve mentioned that perhaps we could re-start the “Social Club” that we have had in the past. A group of members would eat dinner at a local restaurant, usually on the fourth Thursday of the month. Sheila Connell agreed to organize these social outings.  

Although the weather was fine in the morning, with ceilings around 2000 feet, it rapidly deteriorated in the early afternoon. This caused four ultralights headed in  from Louisville to divert to the Wrens airport. During the morning Steve Thompson checked out his newly refurbished 172 and flew some members and guests around the Pea Patch area. Jerry Berger, in his RV-6A, was the first pilot to fly in. Keith Brock and Greg Connell also flew in. Charlie Connell handled the radio for the fly-in. During the afternoon meeting Steve announced a contest for the “prettiest plane.” Since Jerry Berger left early because of incoming thunderstorms, the contest was between Keith Brock’s Mooney and Greg Connell’s Christen Eagle. The members voted that Greg’s plane was the prettiest and he won a prize.


Members had their hangars open so guests and other members could look at what was being built, modified or just on display. Perhaps the highlight of the hangar displays was a huge crate in Al Patton’s open hangar. The crate contained the unassembled kit for Jim McBurney’s Zenith CH-801. The CH-801 is a four seat aircraft capable of short-field operation (400 feet takeoff and landing at full gross weight of 2200 lbs.). Jim has started on the tail assembly. He is going to use the DeltaHawk two-stroke diesel engine in it. Jim said the engine can use many types of oil for fuel – perhaps even filtered McDonald’s waste cooking oil! The plans for this plane, and others to be built, is to facilitate missionaries going into remote areas inaccessible by surface transportation and without airports or large airstrips.
(RETURN TO TOP)

June 9,  2005
Minutes of the Meeting for EAA Chapter 172 for June 9,  2005
Before the meeting we enjoyed an excellent meal of hamburgers grilled by Larry Garner. The meat and side dishes were set out by the Aerospouses. At 6:42 PM Al Newman gave the invocation for the meal and everyone ate. About 22 members, spouses and family attended the meeting.  The business meeting was called to order by Vice-President Larry Garner at 7:15 PM. Treasurer Don Bush said that all the accounts are in order and that there was $75 in the Kitty.
                              
Old Business: Some members reported that someone had broken into a storage area and broke ten of those tables we used to use in the clubhouse. We had replaced them with lighter more attractive tables but we were saving the old ones to use at fly-ins such as the Wrens Fly-in and the Low Country Boil Fly-in in Millen.
 
New Business: Don Bush asked if there is a rule about who lands or if there is a fee required by the Pea Patch Corporation which owns most of the Pea Patch Aerodrome runway.  Charlie Connell, the current president of the Pea Patch Corporation, and other Pea Patch Corporation members answered Don’s question. They said that although the Pea Patch airport is private, there is no fee for a visitor landing, tying down for the day, and taking off from the airport. All visitors -- conventional aircraft, light planes, ultralights, powered parachutes, trikes, gliders, gyrocopters and anything else are always welcome to visit!
The Pea Patch Corporation does have rules about those who wish to stay for an extended period of time. (Note for new EAA 172 members: The Pea Patch Corporation and EAA 172 are not the same. The Pea Patch Corporation consists of twenty some individuals who own shares in the Pea Patch Aerodrome. EAA 172 has a lease on the land for its clubhouse there. EAA 172 members are always welcome to visit with those who have hangars at the Pea Patch and to attend the many EAA 172 functions or use the EAA 172 clubhouse for club purposes.)


Members discussed that though we do have a fairly new TV set and VCR, nowadays more and more video and photographs are on CDs and DVDs. John Magnan moved and Larry Garner seconded that the club should purchase a DVD player for a maximum cost of $100. The members approved the motion unanimously. Larry Garner and his son, Michael, will look around for and purchase the DVD player.
 
Program: Larry Garner narrated a fine digital camera slide show (on the TV screen) of some interesting and sometimes amusing aircraft incidents.
  
Al Newman moved that the meeting adjourn. Don Bush seconded the motion and it passed unanimously. The meeting adjourned at 7:56 PM.

Runway
NEW AIRPORT NEAR THE PEA PATCH
After only a few months wait and a few pounds of federal paperwork, we are proud to announce that Sandy Hill is now a part of the National Airspace System.
  
This means that the system should accept GE30 (not an error -- the FAA ran out of GA identifiers for Georgia) as a landing area and that the Augusta TRSA may provide radar service, workload permitting, as Sandy Hill is both VFR only and private.  We recommend you contact them as it is less than 4 miles to Augusta Class D Airspace and they consistently provide friendly and efficient service.  We also anticipate being published (charted) on at least the Atlanta Sectional in the fall cycle.
  
Please note the limitations (turf, 1900' length), obstructions, and notes (call first, land at your own risk).

Don & Virginia Bush

SANDY HILL Airport  (GE30 Private)
LOCATION (less than 1 mile WNW from the NE corner of the BULLDOG B MOA)
         PEA PATCH           61GA         MAG. BRG.  125º      DISTANCE:      10.1nm
         AUGUSTA REG.     AGS         MAG. BRG.  196º      DISTANCE:         9.1nm   
COORDINATES:       N 33 Deg. 13.259 Min.            W 81 Deg. 59.710 Min.
ELEVATION:       310 FT. APPROX. MSL
RUNWAYS:       10-28; 75' x 1,900'; turf
FREQUENCIES: CTAF & PCL: 122.75 mhz  AUGUSTA APPROACH: 126.8 (fr. W) 119.15 (fr. E)
OBSTRUCTIONS: Deer & livestock in vicinity.  Trees and higher terrain 800' short of threshold rwy 10.   Trees 350' short of threshold rwy 28.  
NOTES: Prior permission required for non-emergency operations due to equestrian activities  in vicinity.
In any case, LAND AT YOUR OWN RISK.  Phone:  (706) 554-5618.   
Owners:  Don & Virginia Bush           


(RETURN TO TOP)

May 12,  2005
Minutes of the Meeting for EAA Chapter 172 for May,  2005
Before the meeting we enjoyed an excellent meal of hamburgers grilled by Larry Garner and topped off with the succulent fresh Vidalia onions flown in by Keith Brock. The meat and side dishes were set out by the Aerospouses. Al Newman gave the invocation for the meal. About 28 members, spouses and family attended the meeting.  The business meeting was called to order by Vice-President Larry Garner at 7:15 PM. Larry mentioned the recent death of Kathryn Parker. He said that some might not know her but she always had a smiling face, a gleam in her eye and a hug for friends.  She attended many of our aviation events, helping as needed and supporting if not. We had $94.00 in the Kitty.
                              
Old Business: Members brought up member Carl Tomlinson’s off-field landing on busy Washington Road in Augusta. They agreed that he was extremely expert in landing so that there was no damage to cars on the road nor the plane -- other than some small damage caused by cutting one power line. Also, there were no injuries to anyone.
 
New Business: Gerald Ballard said that there will be steak & eggs for only $2 at the South Carolina Breakfast Club fly-in at White Plains, Lexington, South Carolina, on May 22nd. We talked about the Cessna 150 incursion into the Washington, D.C. no-fly zone. Most agreed that the pilot was particularly inept in his flight planning and pilotage. Also members said that this will cause more problems with the public’s view of General Aviation [ed. note. The FAA and Homeland Security are using this incursion as a principal reason for making the U.S. Navy's submarine base in Bangor, Washington,  prohibited airspace P-51].

Program: Larry Garner and Keith Brock gave an excellent presentation about Sun'n Fun. Larry showed a video slide show on the TV. He said that this year the organizers were reporting an actual head-count rather than the estimates used in previous years. The attendance for 2005 was about 170,000. He said there seemed to be more food places at Sun’n Fun than in previous years. But he saw crowds at the “glass cockpit” exhibits. Some members did remark about the high prices for food and everything else. But Keith said that the $30 per day entry was cheap, considering everything that was offered there. Keith also said that the motor home camping fee for a week was a cheap vacation that allowed one’s children to “run around the campground” and visit the various venues at Sun’n Fun.  He said that we are probably captured by age -- we remember the old prices. Larry said that many vendors were unhappy about the increase in negative selling – “don’t buy from . . .” Larry, who has flown into Sun’n Fun since 1984, discussed various safety issues there.
  
Al Newman moved that the meeting adjourn. John Magnan seconded the motion and it passed unanimously. The meeting adjourned at 8:17 PM.

(RETURN TO TOP)

Kathryn Kay Parker  AUGUSTA, Georgia. - Ms. Kathryn Kay Parker, 62, entered into rest Monday, May 9, 2005 at University Hospital. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM Thursday, May 12, 2005 at Pleasant Hill Congregational Christian Church with burial in the church cemetery. Visitation will be held at 10:00 AM Thursday, prior to the service at the church. A memorial service will be held at 11:00 AM Saturday, May 14, 2005 at St. Alban's Episcopal Church in Augusta with visitation at 10:00 AM Saturday, prior to the service. Ms. Parker was born in Crawford County to Mildred White Parker and the late Joseph Newton Parker. She was a graduate of Georgia Southern University and a retired teacher with Augusta Technical College. Survivors include her mother, Mildred W. Parker of Roberta; brother, Charles T. Parker of Carrollton; sister, Joellen Borders of Fort Valley, and Joy Lacey (Billy) of Roberta; seven nieces and nephews; seven great-nieces and nephews; one great-great-nephew. Flo wers will be accepted or donations may be made to St. Alban's Episcopal Church Food Pantry, 2321 Lumpkin Road, Augusta, GA 30906. Rooks Funeral Home in Fort Valley has charge of arrangements.
Published in The Augusta Chronicle on 5/11/2005.
Larry Garner wrote "Kathryn always had a smiling face, a gleam in her eye and a hug for friends.  She attended many of our aviation events, helping as needed and supporting if not.  I'll always remember that little red convertible that we used to kid her about how many squirrels it had under the hood."
  
(RETURN TO TOP)
 

 
WRENS O.B. BROWN MEMORIAL FLY-IN

April 29-30, 2005
It happened again! Even though the National Weather Service indicated a week earlier that the rains and front would hold off until Sunday, the storms hit on Saturday, starting in the morning and going through most of the afternoon.

At least the weather was fine on Friday. Four aircraft flew in on that day. Don Murphy came with his Skyraider. John Sligar had  his Rans S-14. Bill Couch flew his Cessna 185. Keith Brock flew his Mooney in from Florida. Not too many members were there for the evening meal. Steve Thompson grilled the sausages. Maureen Rhodes and the other Aerospouses set out the tables and side dishes.
 
On Saturday, all was ready and the aircraft were on display.  The O.B. Brown Challenger 1 was spruced up and had a poster with construction photos. Standing nearby were Allene Brown and her son Sid Brown who is learning to fly it. Clay Brod’s KR-2S had a placard in front with construction photos. Wyman Fox’s Cessna 172 was there, Mark Slone had his Hummelbird (under construction) with a poster describing its capabilities.  Ralph Powell’s Nieuport 11 and Thorp T-18 were there. Terry Stout’s Titan  was parked alongside them. The highlight of the hangar display was Mark Slone’s Hummelbird which attracted the most attention and questions. But the storms hit and wind-blown rain poured across the tarmac. Again, only a few EAA 172 members were there. Because of the low turnout and violent weather there was no “bring your own meat” dinner. Maureen Rhodes prepared a fine hamburger and hot dog meal. We did have a visitor from town, who came out in the rain. A pilot, Larry Yost, who had recently moved from New Mexico.
 
By late afternoon the storms moved on and the rain stopped. Clay Brod and Sid Brown taxi tested their aircraft. Terry Stout put on his new prop and flew his Titan around the airfield.
 
To prepare for the fly-in John Magnan and Mark Slone cleaned up the facilities, mowed the grass around the office and hangar and also mowed the grass strip. Clay Brod swept the hangar. John put out the fence stakes and 1000 feet of fencing flags to mark off the parking areas. Bob Rhodes, Gary Harden and Randy
Powell brought the food trailer, tables and chairs from the Pea Patch. After the fly-in Keith Brock brought back the food trailer and Gary Harden returned the tables and chairs to the Pea Patch. John Magnan and Mark Slone cleaned up the area.

Even though we had poor weather and sparse attendance, those who did come thoroughly enjoyed themselves.
 
(RETURN TO TOP)



April 14,  2005
Minutes of the Meeting for EAA Chapter 172 for April 14,  2005
This was a return to our regularly scheduled Thursday meetings. Before the meeting we enjoyed tasty "Green Chile Stew"  prepared by Don Murphy and Steve Thompson and set out by the Aerospouses.  Steve did about everything at the meeting: Since Al Newman was not there he gave the invocation at 6:51 PM before we ate He called the business meeting to order  at 7:24 PM. President Thompson said that he had a CD from EAA Headquarters as well as a DVD explaining the Sport Pilot. Any member could borrow the CD & DVD to copy. We had $107.00 in the Kitty.
                             
Old Business: Members discussed anything that would be needed for the Wrens Fly-in (April 29-30). John Magnan and Mark Slone who take care of the paperwork, field and airport preparations. Gary Harden  would make sure the food trailer as well as the tables and chairs were there. Charlie Connell would handle the radio. Steve Thompson and Maureen Rhodes with the Aerospouses would prepare and set out the  meals.
 
New Business: We talked about other upcoming fly-ins such as the May 6-8: Vintage Airplane Association (VAA) Chapter 3 Spring Fly-in  Burlington-Alamance Regional Airport (BUY). Burlington, North Carolina. Also the May 12-15: Mid Atlantic Annual Fly-in & Sport Aviation Convention  Lumberton Airport (LBT). Lumberton, North Carolina. Also the EAA Chapter 731 SPRING FLY-IN and Young Eagles Day  Hickory Regional Airport, (HKY). Hickory, North Carolina on May 21. Also we talked about the Oshkosh fly-in on July 25-July 31.

Phil Dewitt discussed the celebration at Harlem High School this coming Thursday to honor Joe Miles, who attended the school some time ago.

The installation of Al Patton into the Georgia Aviators Hall of Fame was coming up.
   
Steve Thompson moved that the meeting adjourn. John Magnan seconded the motion and it passed unanimously. The meeting adjourned at 7:44 PM.
             
(RETURN TO TOP)
 March 12,  2005
Minutes of the Meeting for EAA Chapter 172 for March 12,  2005
The Fishfry Fly-in
Rather than a regular meeting we had a delicious fish fry prepared by Steve Thompson, Everett Parks, Dennis Allen and others.  The Aerospouses set out the food on the serving table and put out the table settings.  The meal began around 1:40 PM with an invocation by Al Newman. Among the guests was Bill Forshee from EAA 330. Also visiting us were Ollie Winton from England, Sidney Hooks, Fay Burchfield, Mike & Maryalice Fuller, Woody & Linda King, Jim McBurney and David Miles.  We had no regular business meeting. Treasurer Don Bush said that we took in $123 in the Kitty. However, the meal cost us about $175. The high winds kept all aircraft away but the 70+ members and guests still enjoyed the food and the fellowship.  
(RETURN TO TOP)

February 12,  2005
Minutes of the Meeting for EAA Chapter 172 for February 12,  2005
This was our first regularly scheduled Saturday meeting. More than 40 members and guests as well as 10 aircraft came to the meeting. Before the meeting we enjoyed an excellent meal set out by the Aerospouses. Bob Rhodes prepared his famous "Possum Stew" (chili).  During the meal we enjoyed a video taped in December, 1999, of a P-51 “H” flying. The meeting was called to order by President Steve Thompson at 1:00 PM. He welcomed guests William Brown (ATC, Bush Field), Jeanne Clavel (Twin Lakes) and Mark Haney (KingAir pilot). Steve announced that EAA national is putting together a database on DARs for Sports Pilot aircraft. He also said that the Oshkosh campground will be opening early, about a month before the July 25-31 EAA Oshkosh Airventure® 2005. Treasurer Don Bush said that all bills have been paid.
                              
Old Business: Young Eagles Coordinator Larry Garner reminded members that there would be a special Young Eagles rally for Boy Scouts on February 19th and he needed some pilots. Also, there is the Young Eagles rally at Daniel Field on March 19th — Kidsfest 2005. The time will be about 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Last year they flew 291 children. He needs at least 10 pilots.

Steve Thompson said that he is putting together a group to put the new side on the clubhouse. He asked for volunteers for the “Building Committee.” Charlie Connell, Gary Harden and Al Patton were recruited for the committee. They will decide on a building date suitable for all of them.
 
New Business: Social Director Maureen Rhodes said that the EAA 172 Food Trailer will be at Kidsfest 2005 on March 19th  at Daniel field.

All the preparations are completed for the Fish Fry on March 12th. Steve is asking for a group to clean up the place on Friday, March 11.
 
Steve announced that Al Patton was being inducted into the Georgia Aviation Hall of Fame. He moved that the Chapter pay $500 toward the expenses for this induction. Al Newman seconded the motion and it passed unanimously.

Keith Brock discussed the April 12-18: Sun 'n Fun® 2005 Fly-In at Lakeland, Florida. He said that last month he was at the first planning meeting. He is in charge of the Homebuilt area. He said he is asking or any comments or suggestions since he will bring any “grassroots” suggestions to the preparation meetings. Keith also gave the main reason for the change of dates for the EAA events. Even though these dates affect pilots who like to come in on weekends when they are off work, the vendors and exhibitors are the ones that requested the changes.
 
Gary ward mentioned that people should stop in at Falcon Head (at the Texas border) to see EAA 172 member Danny Stanton (Burneyville, Oklahoma) if anyone is flying near there.
   
Al Newman moved that the meeting adjourn. John Magnan seconded the motion and it passed unanimously. The meeting adjourned at 1:40 PM.


(RETURN TO TOP)

January 13,  2005
Minutes of the Meeting for EAA Chapter 172 for January 13,  2005
Before the meeting we enjoyed an excellent meal of smoked turkey and ham with collards & Blackeye peas, as is traditional in the South, prepared by Steve Thompson and set out by the Aerospouses. At 7:30 PM the meeting was called to order by President Steve Thompson. There were 34 members, family and guests at the meeting. We welcomed guests David and Richard Blythe. Treasurer Don Bush was not able to be at the meeting so Logistics Director Gary Harden reported that there was $130 in the Kitty. Secretary John Magnan collected $140 in dues and reported that he had paid the $30 Georgia Corporation 2005 renewal fee for EAA 172 and also the trailer tag fees of $44.40 for our three club trailers.  Steve reported that a thank-you card was received from the MCG Children Center for the gifts and donations collected at the Christmas Party.
                              
Old Business: Young Eagles Coordinator Larry Garner reminded members that there would be a special Young Eagles rally for Boy Scouts on February 19th and he needed some pilots. Also, there is the Young Eagles rally at Daniel Field on March 19th — Kidsfest 2005. The time will be about 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Last year they flew 291 children. He needs at least 10 pilots.
 
New Business: Social Director Maureen Rhodes said that the EAA 172 Food Trailer will be at Kidsfest 2005 on March 19th  at Daniel field.
 
Members noticed that there were not too many people at this meeting. They discussed ways to improve attendance. Some members said that those who might attend the meeting perhaps could not because they preferred not to drive when it was dark. Steve Thompson suggested having our winter meetings on Saturdays. After some discussion about which Saturdays, Keith Brock moved and Steve Thompson seconded having the October through December, January through March meetings on Saturdays. Food would be at 1:00 PM but members could come out, perhaps at 10:00 AM to talk and look at the EAA 172 projects and planes. April through September meetings would be on Thursdays at the regular time (6:30 PM for the food, 7:15 PM for the meeting). However, the July meeting (Cold Cuts Fly-in) would still be on Saturday. The motion passed unanimously.
   
Program: Phil Dewitt talked about Tom Riley, the premier aircraft restorer, and the Kissimmee, Florida, Warbirds Museum. Also Phil talked about the Warbirds International magazine.
   
Al Newman moved that the meeting adjourn. John Magnan seconded the motion and it passed unanimously. The meeting adjourned at 7:56 PM.


MEETING DAY CHANGES
At the Thursday, January 13, 2005, meeting of EAA 172, we made a BIG CHANGE in the MEETING DAY for EAA 172. This is a change only made once in a generation --- so most will not see a change again like this IN THEIR LIFETIME!

To increase attendance at our meetings, since during the winter months it is dark by late afternoon, EAA 172, starting next month, will change its meeting day to the SECOND SATURDAY for the months of JANUARY, FEBRUARY, MARCH, OCTOBER, NOVEMBER and DECEMBER.
The eating time will then be at 1:00 PM but come earlier, maybe around 10:00 - 11:00 AM to talk and look at the aircraft projects etc. For the warmer months (April - September) the meeting will be at the regular time at 7:15 PM with food at 6:30 PM, on the second Thursday of the month, except for the Cold Cuts Fly-in which will be on the second Saturday of July.

The decision was approved by a unanimous vote of the EAA 172 membership at the meeting. The date will fit in nicely with other EAAs in the area --- EAA 330 has its meetings the third Saturday and EAA 1313 has its meetings the first Saturday of the month. Some of our members also belong to either or both of those clubs.

John Magnan
Secretary
EAA 172
 
(RETURN TO TOP)
EAA 172 home page
This page Created and Edited with FrontPage Editor 090697

This page last updated: 0112@0430EST