page2

        Well, what did you think of the February meeting? I hope you got there early? Did you get a seat, or did you have to stand? We heard that there were some people that didn't get to sit down. Sorry about that, but you were forewarned to come early. How would you describe this meeting? Informative and professional are a couple of the words that come to mind. I think we all came away with some very informational ideas about the FAA physicals and strategies to overcome some, most, or all of our obstacles. Doctor Dennis Schuring and Doctor Newman showed us a humorous video with the 15 disqualifying medical problems. I don't know about you, but I laughed at the final disqualifying problem the pilot had--"I'm waiting for a heart transplant". After the video there was a question and answer session whereby both doctors answered all questions fielded to them. Most of the questions cut right to the point. Doctor Schuring also informed us that a good number of medical requirements from 20 to 30 years ago have been relaxed. One good example is that in the 1970's, if you had high blood pressure, you could not act as a pilot in command no matter what. Times have changed.
        Next, there was a mini raffle that netted three gag gifts (medically related of course) and a short break. A panoramic picture brought in by Sean Kline was laid out on the front table a got immediate attention and revived some memories of the old airport. A note of thanks to Carol Thompson who missed the meeting but saw to it that her bakery arrived for our consumption.
        After the break came the business portion of the meeting including Vice President Darren Spiegel announcing a fly out to Ho Chunk Casino in Baraboo Wisconsin sometime in March. Watch for the posting on the board in the pilot's lounge. If you know someone that can no longer fly and wants to, or you know a student pilot looking for a little excursion, this is the right ticket. Invite them. There should be plenty of empty seats to accommodate everyone.
The membership is growing and we're now over 70 members strong!

March 10th's meeting John Rippenger of the Lima Lima flight team will be showing us a video and will explain the ins and outs of formation flying. PLEASE COME EARLY FOR A SEAT THEY GO FAST!! Poplar Grove's Airmotive will be here April 14th with words of wisdom on engine care and maintenance. You'll want to write this date down July 14th...the TUSKEGEE Airmen will be here. Details to follow.
Wally's raffle was the perfect finish to our meeting, but it really didn't finish there. I personally noticed at least a dozen or more pilots hanging around well after the meeting concluded just talking and having a good time.
More magic yet to come...