WING LEADER

COL Eric Hollingsworth

ehollingsworth@CellularSouth.com

EXECUTIVE OFFICER

COL George Steube

OPERATIONS OFFICER

COL Jim Barbee

Jim_Barbee@us.crawco.com

FINANCE OFFICER

COL Pete Vozzo

pvozzo@yahoo.com

ADJUTANT

COL Greg Freeman

MAINTENANCE OFFICER

COL Dave Zavoina

FACILITIES ENGINEER

COL Tony Banus

SAFETY OFFICER

COL Ken Aasand

PROGRAMS OFFICER

COL Keith Jones

PX OFFICER

COL Bob Bates

FROM THE CROW’S NEST

By now, most of us have had the opportunity to watch the DVD we received from headquarters. Our new president, Col. Steve Brown, has shared some of his ideas about the future of the CAF and the role headquarters will play in it. Agree or disagree, changes are definitely being made. So, I'm sure you’re are asking yourself, "How are these changes going to impact us?".

Well, the change that is getting the most attention is national dues increase of $40 per year. Although it sounds like a lot, I don't think many of us can honestly say 75 cents per week is going to break our entertainment budgets. We all recognize the importance of maintaining our Colonel standing, and the benefits this organization brings to us as well as those who visit our museum. If you're wondering if it is worth the increase, just keep in mind that all of your dues are tax deductible, and keep our great aircraft flying. If you are like me, and just don't like writing that big check after Christmas, I encourage you to use the monthly dues payment option. It is a lot more painless, and makes it easier to remain a Colonel in good standing.

The change that I am most excited to learn about is headquarter’s commitment to help the wings and squadrons get the word out about our mission. One of our biggest problems has been that we don't have national exposure to the general public, media, or publications; so although we are part of a larger organization, we sometimes appear to be a local flying club. Headquarters has made a commitment to better network our units, using the synergies to create more exposure for us all. The net result should be more public and corporate funding for every local wing.

So hang on, troops. Keep coming out to the hangar/museum, helping with the aircraft and having a good time. The Stinson engine has been test run, and will be coming back very soon. We have some work to finish up on the 10A, but the plan is to have her flying by spring. We're also working to nail down some exciting events this year, and with your help, we will continue to share our history with others, and have a great time doing it.

Keep ‘em flying - COL Eric