LADIES LOVE TAILDRAGGERS GROUP WILL GATHER IN SAVANNAH, TENNESSEE
May 31 - June 3
Savannah-Hardin County Airport (SNH) will be abuzz with Lady Taildragger Pilots, their airplanes and their friends, June 1-3. Early arrivals are expected a few days prior to the big event.
Airport Manager, Montill Warren is excited. Room blocks have been set aside at beautiful Pickwick Landing State Park and other area lodging. Some visitors are expected to camp alongside their airplane.
Activities include a Poker Run & Fly-Out on Saturday and Hangar Party Saturday night with door prizes, music and guest speakers.
Lady Tail Dragger, Judy Birchler says last years event attracted 50 aircraft and 300 people. She expects Tennessee's brand of Southern Hospitality to make this event their biggest yet! If the weather permits, attendees from across the nation are expected to fly-in and maybe even some from Canada and other international destinations.
Registration on-line at www.ladieslovetaildraggers.com as soon as possible is recommended or call Judy Birchler at (317) 506-2737.
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TSA ISSUES IMPORTANT GENERAL AVIATION SECURITY NOTICE
September 3, 2011 - Arlington, VA
The Department of Homeland Security and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) continue to monitor reports on potential terrorist threats in the United States. While there is no specific or credible intelligence that al-Qa'ida or its affiliates are plotting attacks in the United States to coincide with the ten year anniversary of 9/11 , we remain at a heightened state of vigilance and security measures are in place to detect and prevent plots against the United States should they emerge.
TSA reminds the general aviation (GA) community to review the security measures contained in the TSA Information Publication, Security Guidelines for General Aviation Airports (http://www.tsa.gov/assets/pdf/security guidelines for general aviation airports.pdf) . In addition, the GA community is encouraged to:
- Secure unattended aircraft to prevent unauthorized use.
- Verify the identification of crew and passengers prior to departure.
- Verify that baggage and cargo are known to the persons on board.
- Where identification systems are in place, encourage employees to wear proper identification.
- Be alert, aware of, and report persons masquerading as pilots, security personnel, emergency medical technicians, or other personnel using uniforms or vehicles as methods to gain access to aviation facilities or aircraft.
- Be alert, aware of, and report aircraft with unusual or unauthorized modifications.
- Be alert, aware of, and report persons loitering in the vicinity of aircraft or air operations areas, as well as persons loading unusual or unauthorized payload onto aircraft.
- Be alert, aware of, and report persons who appear to be under stress or the control of other persons.
- Be alert, aware of, and report persons whose identification appears altered or inconsistent.
- Aircraft operators are reminded to check all NOTAMs for the latest information on Temporary Flight Restrictions.
The theft of any GA aircraft should be immediately reported to the appropriate authorities and the TSA General Aviation Hotline at 866-GA-SECURE (866-427-3287). In addition, persons should report any suspicious activity immediately to local law enforcement and the TSA General Aviation
Hotline. "If You See Something. Say Something."
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SMYRNA AIRPORT TOP IN STATE & MANAGEMENT RECEIVES AWARDS
Smyrna - August 25, 2011
Smyrna Airport was honored by the Tennessee Aeronautics Division by receiving several awards among airports across the State of Tennessee. Smyrna Airport was the recipient of the prestigious “Airport of the Year”. This award is given to airports that present a quality image to their community, operate at the highest standards, are aggressive in marketing and community activity and have long range planning goals. Smyrna/Rutherford County Airport Authority Executive Director John Black stated, “As Tennessee’s busiest general aviation airport, we are very happy to be honored with this recognition. It is truly a team effort of dedication across all areas.”
The Airport also received the “Red Carpet Award”. This award is given to three airports across the state. The criteria are based on customer service, operational excellence, unique programs and quality facilities for passenger services. Airport Board Chairman Mike Woods commented, “This honor is a reflection of our high standards and commitment to quality. Our image to those flying or driving into the airport is a critical element to business recruitment to Rutherford County and Middle Tennessee.”
The management team was also recognized with the award “Airport Management of the Year”. The award was given to Executive Director John Black and Airport Manager Lois Vallance. The Tennessee Aeronautics Division considers airport management across the state in determining this award. Manager Lois Vallance commented, “We are so very grateful to receive this award. We have one of the best airport teams across the southeast.”
Smyrna Airport and the Smyrna Airport Business Park comprise over 1700 acres of mixed land use for aviation, commercial and industrial parcels currently under development.
For further information, please contact Executive Director John Black at (615) 459-2651 or johnb@smyrnaairport.com
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BNA TERMINAL BUILDING NAMED FOR FORMER BOARD CHAIRMAN
Nashville - July 12, 2011
The Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority (MNAA) announced today that it will name Nashville International Airport's (BNA) main terminal building in memory of former chairman of the MNAA Board of Commissioners Robert C. H. "Bob" Mathews Jr.
Mathews, who died in 2008, served on MNAA's board of commissioners for 22 years, 19 of them as its chairman. During his tenure, the airport system experienced notable expansions and improvements, including the addition of its general aviation airport, John C. Tune Airport, which is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year.
Other notable achievements during his time on the board include:
- Opening the present airport terminal at BNA, increasing the size from 400,000 square feet to 750,000 square feet (1987),
- Completing Nashville's 30-Year Aviation Plan (1993),
- Completing the first phase of the cargo terminal's expansion (2000), and
- Reaching BNA's peak number of airlines – 19 carriers providing nonstop or single-plane flights to 87 cities across North America.
"Bobby Mathews was a great leader, not just for the Authority, but for aviation in general," said MNAA President and CEO Raul Regalado. "From early in his board tenure, he stood behind this industry as being an essential part of our region's economy, and he worked to bring about the growth that would support Nashville and Middle Tennessee. Naming the terminal in his honor recognizes this legacy."
MNAA staff requested the renaming under a policy its Board of Commissioners approved in 2010 that allows the naming of buildings, spaces, facilities and streets owned by MNAA or located on its property.
A bronze plaque with Mathew's likeness and description of his contributions to the BNA and the Authority will be installed within the main terminal lobby.
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AOPA ADDS AIRPORT ADVOCACY RESOURCES TO WEBSITE
June 29, 2011
The AOPA Government Affairs (Airports) Advocacy Resources for You webpage has been updated with great new airports resource materials as well as some tried and true pieces.
CLICK HERE FOR AOPA WEBSITE
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2011 AVIATION HALL OF FAME INDUCTEES NAMED
Sevierville - April 14, 2011
The Board of Directors of the Tennessee Aviation Hall of Fame proudly announces the 2011 Class of Honorees. These extraordinary individuals will be Inducted and Enshrined into the Tennessee Aviation Hall of Fame at its' 10th Anniversary Gala and Induction Ceremony on November 12, 2011 at the Tennessee Museum of Aviation in Sevierville. The public is invited to attend. Advance reservations are necessary.
2011 Inductees are:
Mary (Dilda) Heringa of Memphis – Renowned Air Race Gold Medalist -
Mary Heringa has earned celebrity status as a superb air race and acrobatic pilot and as the foremost female air-racer in the nation… she also has a full-time job as a pilot for FedEx.
Brig. Gen. Norman C. Gaddis of Dandridge – Decorated military aviator & former P.O.W. -
During his 73rd combat mission over North Vietnam on May 12, 1967, United States Air Force Pilot Norm Gaddis was forced to bail out of his aircraft. He was captured and was held as a Prisoner of War until March 4, 1973… 2,124 days later.
Mack H. Rowe (1919–1980) of Nashville – A distinguished Tennessee Aviator -
Mack Rowe learned to fly in Nashville in 1936. After serving his country during WWII he returned to Nashville and joined the Tennessee Air National Guard. Mack also headed the first flight school designed for veterans and supported by the G.I. Bill of Rights and was credited with helping returning veterans get on their feet after returning from military duty.
William A. Wilkerson, Jr. of Knoxville – Life's work dedicated to pilot safety -
In 1980, Bill Wilkerson became only the second African-American to earn the rank of Captain with Piedmont Airlines. He retired after 32 years as an airline pilot in 2006 and his continuing career in aviation is dedicated to teaching general aviation pilots the procedures to follow and how to survive "Spatial Disorientation".
For more information, please visit the Tennessee Aviation Hall of Fame website at www.tnaviationhof.org .
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CHALLENGER HEADLINES 2010 GALA & INDUCTION... A REAL "GATHERING OF EAGLES"
Sevierville - November 14, 2010
The 2010 Tennessee Aviation Hall of Fame Annual Gala and Induction Ceremony was billed by some as a "Gathering of Eagles" based upon this years class of Inductees that included an East Tennessee Flight Attendant; a legendary Middle Tennessee Aviatrix; a beloved flight instructor/pilot examiner and a Memphian who was the first man to test fly the world's fastest airplane. As the formal event began, inside the huge aircraft hangar at the Tennessee Museum of Aviation, with the Posting of The Colors and
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| CHALLENGER |
as a soloist sang the National Anthem, more than 400 attendees were witness to the real thing… the nationally renowned American Bald Eagle "Challenger" took flight, inside the hangar, across the dining tables of awe-struck observers leaving many breathless and with tears in their eyes. Aviation Hall of Fame Founder and Chairman, Bob Minter, who had worked to arrange the Eagle's appearance with the American Eagle Foundation of Pigeon Forge, was himself overcome by the flight of such a majestic creature. " I knew that Challenger was going to fly, this was not a surprise to me, but I was so moved I couldn't speak," Minter said, "Yes, this is truly a Gathering of Eagles, lead by the real thing, a beautiful symbol of our Great Nation."
And a Gathering of Eagles it was… attending the event were a virtual Who's Who in aviation from across the nation. A former U-2 test pilot, now 87 years of age, who flew his own single-engine airplane from Texas to East Tennessee to attend the event; another, the former test pilot for the Lockheed C-5A came from New Mexico; a retired USAF General who spent 5-years as a POW in Hanoi was there, and these are just a few. Tennessee's own living aviation legend, Evelyn Bryan Johnson, was there. She had celebrated her 101st birthday just 9-days before. "Miss Evelyn" still manages the airport in Morristown, Tennessee. She stopped flying at age 95 after accumulating 57, 640 hours in the air, more than any woman in history!
Inductees, enshrined at the 2010 Tennessee Aviation Hall of Fame are:
Carol Dobyns Fair of Johnson City, who began a career as a Flight Attendant for Piedmont Airlines at age 19, one year after the airline allowed females to become cabin crewmembers. During her nearly 50-year career in aviation she has become a tireless advocate for aviation. In 2008 she was inducted into the North Carolina Transportation Hall of Fame.
Cornelia Clark Fort (1919-1943) of Nashville, a legendary aviatrix was the first American woman to die on active military duty. Ms. Fort learned to fly in Nashville and became one of the most accomplished pilots in the Women's Auxiliary Ferrying Squadron (WAFS) during WWII; she was part of the original 28 female pilots who entered the service in 1942.
Memphis native and aviation legend, Robert J. "Bob" Gilliland of Burbank, CA was the Chief Test Pilot and first man to fly the SR-71 "Blackbird". Gilliland has logged more experimental supersonic flight test time above the speed of sound at Mach 2 and Mach 3 than any other pilot.
Clyde H. Shelton of Fayetteville has logged over 35,800 hours of flying time, more than 20,000 hours of which was as a Flight Instructor. A mentor to thousands who have learned to fly and pursued careers in aviation, Clyde has also conducted more than 8,500 pilot check rides as an FAA Designated Pilot Examiner.
Since its inaugural induction ceremony in 2002, the Tennessee Aviation Hall of Fame has enshrined 37 men and women who have made enduring contributions to aviation for Tennessee, our nation, or the world. Their Bio's can be found on the internet at www.tnaviationhof.org.
The Tennessee Aviation Hall of Fame is Tennessee's Official Aviation Hall of Fame and the state's Official Repository & Archive for Aviation History.
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LANNY CULVER PASSES AWAY
Sevierville - October 17, 2010
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| Lanny G. Culver |
Lanny G. Culver, inducted into the Tennessee Aviation Hall of Fame in 2007 died early Saturday morning following a long battle with leukemia. Lanny was diagnosed with the disease only weeks after being enshrined into the Aviation Hall of Fame. During these very difficult years, he has longed to return for another ceremony but that just has not been possible.
TAHF Founder & Chairman Bob MInter said, "I loved Lanny Culver and I am sure everyone who ever knew him did." "He was a man of incredible character and integrity who left the aviation industry and the world around him a much better place. Our Board of Directors and members are all very sad. Bettye and Lanny's family and many friends are in our prayers."
If you wish to honor Lanny Culver through a donation to the Tennessee Aviation Hall of Fame, you may do so by clicking the donate button to the left of this article. THe family will be notified of all honors made in his name and Lanny Culver will be honored once again at the 2010 TAHF Gala and Induction Ceremony on November 13, 2010.
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SEVIERVILLE CHAMBER GIVES AIRPORT AWARD
Sevierville - September 29, 2010
At its Annual Awards Banquet on Tuesday evening, the Sevierville Chamber of Commerce presented an award to its local airport for excellence in signage. Among many significant improvements at GKT Airport recently, is a new roadside sign on Dolly Parton Blvd. that marks a new entrance to the airport terminal building and the Tennessee Museum of Aviation.
In late August at the Tennessee Airports Conference the airport received an award as Tennessee's Airport of the Year from the Tennessee Aeronautics Commission.
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| NEW SIGNAGE AT GKT AIRPORT IN SEVIERVILLE |
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AVIATION SCHOLARSHIPS AWARDED TWO TENNESSEE STUDENTS
Sevierville - July 28, 2010
Two university level student pilots are receiving scholarship awards from the John T. Baugh Aviation Excellence Scholarship. The announcement was made by Scholarship Administrator, Bob Minter, who is also Chairman of the Tennessee Aviation Hall of Fame and Southeast Regional Representative for the Aircraft Owners & Pilots Association. The scholarship fund is hosted by the Tennessee Museum of Aviation in Sevierville.
Charles Tyler Yokley of Greeneville and Adam Thomas Smith of Hohenwald have each been awarded $2,000.00 by the scholarship fund specifically for use toward accredited, university level flight training. Both are enrolled in courses that lead to an FAA license as a Commercial Pilot with the appropriate ratings.
Mr. Yokley is a Senior at Middle Tennessee State University and expects to graduate in December. While attending the university, he is also employed by FedEx and aspires to become a pilot for the company upon graduation.
Mr. Smith is entering his sophomore year at Le Tourneau University, a small Christian institution located in Longview, Texas. While Smith's career goals are not yet entirely firm, he feels he will probably be utilizing his pilot skills in work as a Missionary.
As the awards were made, Bob Minter said, "These are the first two awards we have made through the John T. Baugh Jr. Aviation Excellence Scholarship. Both young men have met our requirements that include a genuine need for the scholarship money, demonstrated academic achievement, and positive orientation toward their respective career goals." "These are impressive young gentlemen who we feel have earned this financial assistance", Minter said.
John T. Baugh Jr. of Nashville was inducted into the Tennessee Aviation Hall of Fame in 2004 for his achievements, contributions and service to aviation in Tennessee. The scholarship fund was established by his son, John Baugh III, to honor his Father. Both are pilots and staunch advocates for aviation. Contributions to the scholarship fund are tax deductable and can be made through the Tennessee Museum of Aviation.
Scholarship applicants must be Tennesseans pursuing higher education level courses leading to a career in aviation.
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EAST TENNESSEE FLIGHT INSTRUCTOR NAMED NATIONAL AEROSPACE EDUCATION TEACHER OF THE YEAR
Kingsport - July 17, 2010
Lt. Col Bill Powley, a retired Air Force officer and mentor to thousands of Air Force Junior ROTC cadets, has been named winner of the 24th annual A. Scott Crossfield Aerospace Education Teacher of the Year Award, announced by the National Aviation Hall of Fame.
Powley received the award, along with a $1,500 cash stipend, at the NAHF President's Dinner & Reception on Friday, July 16, 2010 in Dayton, Ohio
Powley, a 1967 graduate of the U.S. Air Force Academy, has flown supersonic fighters, 347 combat missions and is twice a recipient of the Distinguished Flying Cross. And as a leader of award-winning Junior ROTC units, he's helped literally thousands of students take flight through innovative flight orientation programs and leadership.
After retiring from the Air Force, Powley began teaching JROTC at Unicoi County High School in eastern Tennessee. Starting in this county without an airport, Powley – who later began a JROTC unit at Sullivan South High School in Kingsport, Tenn. – has now helped over 4,000 students take orientation flights, soloed 86 cadets from 1996 to date, and has had a number of students go on to service academies, serve in the military or become professional pilots.
In addition, Powley led efforts to find grants and other outside funding for scholarships and to enhance his programs.
Along the way, Powley also earned an MBA from the University of West Florida, and an Ed.S degree from Lincoln Memorial University.
"His exemplary performance as my JROTC commander, my flight instructor and my ground school teacher resulted in true learning, beyond the walls of the classroom," said USAF Capt. Seth Bennett, an Air Force Academy graduate. "This program affected my life in incalculable ways."
Founded by famed research test pilot Scott Crossfield in 1986, the award is a juried competition open to current classroom teachers in grades K through 12. Nominations were examined by a review committee of aerospace industry and education professionals for documentation of a teacher's effectiveness, creativity and ability to maintain high standards for their students and themselves with aerospace being the core subject matter or their curricula.
Along with the cash award, Powley also received an all-expense paid trip to Dayton and be a guest at the Hall of Fame's 49th Annual Enshrinement Ceremony.
Also see a News item in the Kingsport Times by clicking the following link:
KINGSPORT TIMES NEWS
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LEGISLATURE HELPS SMALL AIRFIELD OWNERS
Nashville - May 6, 2010
LATEST NEWS: May 26, 2010 - Governor Signs Airfield Owners Bill!
Thanks to T-Top Airfield Owner Ken Franks of Eagleville, he and other owners of small, private airstrips across Tennessee will soon enjoy limited liability if they chose to allow recreational non-commercial aircraft operations or recreational non-commercial ultra light vehicle operations on their property. The Bill has passed the House and Senate and now awaits Governor Bredesen's signature. Tennessee law already permits limited liability for property owners who allow such things as white water rafting, ATV's, hiking, caving, etc.
Ken Franks spearheaded the effort in the Tennessee General Assembly during the past few months and managed to get other airfield owners to support the initiative through their own members of the General Assembly, but he gives the largest share of the credit to the Bill's sponsors, Representative Ty Cobb of Columbia and Senator Doug Jackson of Dickson, both of whom worked with him to overcome potential obstacles and who saw the measures through the necessary Committee processes in the House and the Senate.
Franks would like to share the fun of flying with friends at his own airfield. Heretofore, liability issues have discouraged allowing others to land at privately owned airfields. Mr. Franks is also an enthusiastic general aviation pilot who wants to introduce others to flying and as most pilots will tell you, flying from a grass runway is about as much fun as it gets.
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HISTORIC CORNELIA FORT AIRPARK INUNDATED BY FLOOD
Nashville - May 3, 2010
Here is an excerpt from the Colemill website to provide some historical perspective:
Colemill Flying Service had its beginning in early December,1944 at Cornelia Fort Airpark, a newly established, privately owned, public use airport located in Nashville, Tennessee. From those early days of conducting business as Colemill Flying Service, Ernest W. Colbert has been either a partner or owner of the business and the airport. In the early 1950's, he purchased the business from his partner and the airport from the other FBO owners and has remained as the sole owner of the business and the airport since then. Shortly after his purchase, he changed the name of the company to Colemill Enterprises, Inc. For over 64 years and through his guidance, Colemill has developed many modifications to enhance the performance, comfort and safety of several types of aircraft. His dedication and innovative ideas have grown a small FBO to become one of the world's largest modification companies with a nationally recognized reputation for excellence. In November 2003, for his enduring contributions, extraordinary achievement and exceptional service to aviation for Tennessee, our nation and the world, Mr. Colbert was inducted into the Tennessee Aviation Hall of Fame.
Obviously, the flood damage is devastating.
God Bless you Mr. Colbert, and all who live for and work at this aviation treasure in Tennessee.
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TENNESSEE APPRECIATES AVIATION
Nashville - April, 2010
Governor Phil Bredesen has proclaimed April 2010 as GENERAL AVIATION APPRECIATION MONTH.
Aviation and aircraft manufacturing play a critical role in the lives of Tennesseans. The state has more than 80 airports serving 2,481 general aviation aircraft. Our state's geography requires many communities and businesses to depend upon General Aviation aircraft for access to economic opportunity, medical treatment, law enforcement, disaster relief and a wide range of critical resources. The use of General Aviation for business and personal transportation are directly tied to future growth and prosperity in Tennessee. The state's economy realizes almost $6 billion annually as a result of aviation activity and nearly 100,000 jobs that create nearly $2 billion in wages and salaries from economic activities directly or indirectly related to aviation.
Members of the Tennessee Aeronautics Commission and others met with the Governor at the State Capitol to celebrate the occasion.
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2010 AVIATION HALL OF FAME INDUCTEES SELECTED
Sevierville - April 18, 2010
The TAHF Board of Directors has announced the Inductee Class for 2010. The Annual Induction Gala and Enshrinement Ceremony will be held on November 13, 2010 at the Tennessee Museum of Aviation. The public is invited.
Cornelia Clark Fort (1919-1943) of Nashville, a legendary aviatrix was the first American woman to die on active military duty. Ms. Fort learned to fly in Nashville and became one of the most accomplished pilots in the Women's Auxiliary Ferrying Squadron (WAFS); she was part of the original 28 female pilots who entered the service in 1942.
Memphis native and aviation legend, Robert J. "Bob" Gilliland of Burbank, CA was the Chief Test Pilot and first man to fly the SR-71 "Blackbird". Gilliland has logged more experimental supersonic flight test time above Mach 2 and Mach 3 than any other pilot.
Carol Dobyns Fair of Johnson City began a career as a Flight Attendant for Piedmont Airlines at age 19, one year after the airline allowed females to become cabin crewmembers. During her nearly 50-year career in aviation she has become a tireless advocate for aviation. In 2008 she was inducted into the North Carolina Transportation Hall of Fame.
Clyde H. Shelton of Fayetteville has logged over 35,800 hours of flying time, more than 20,000 of which was as a Flight Instructor. A mentor to thousands who have learned to fly and pursued careers in aviation, Clyde has also conducted more than 8,500 pilot check rides as a Pilot Examiner.
The Tennessee Aviation Hall of Fame Induction Gala will be held on November 13, 2010 at the Tennessee Museum of Aviation in Sevierville.
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AVIATION HALL OF FAME MEMBER WILDER DIES
Memphis - January 1, 2010
Former Lt. Governor John S. Wilder passed away only minutes after the entry of the New Year 2010 at a hospital in Memphis following a reported stroke suffered a few days earlier. He was 88 years of age.
Among his many distinctions is the fact that John S. Wilder's service for 36-years as Speaker of the Senate and Lt. Governor of the State of Tennessee is the longest serving presiding officer of a legislative chamber in U.S. history.
Wilder was a pilot and a dedicated advocate for aviation. In 2004, he was inducted into the Tennessee Aviation Hall of Fame to honor his contributions to aviation in his beloved home state.
Aviation Hall of Fame Chairman, Bob Minter said, "Governor Wilder was a dear friend. This is a very sad day. We will miss him, but his legacy as a man of great integrity, and his extraordinary service to Tennessee and to aviation in our state will live forever."
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AVIATION HALL OF FAME INDUCTS FOUR AT 8TH ANNUAL GALA
Sevierville – November 17, 2009
Over 400 aviation aficionados', families and friends witnessed the Induction of four extraordinary Tennesseans at Saturday evening's 8th Annual Tennessee Aviation Hall of Fame Gala and Induction Ceremony at the Tennessee Museum of Aviation. This year's event also dedicated part of the program to a celebration of Evelyn Bryan Johnson's 100th birthday. Mrs. Johnson, an aviation legend in her own right, was inducted in 2002 and became a Centenarian on November 4th. Her 57,640 logged flight hours, more than any woman in aviation history, have earned her a place in The Genius Book of World Records. Mrs. Johnson manages Morristown's Municipal Airport.
This years Gala became a "Gathering of Eagles" as notable friends of the inductees arrived to honor those being enshrined. 2009 Honoree Lt. Col. William H. Pickron, Jr., a pilot to many Tennessee Governors, was pleasantly surprised when he discovered that his WWII era buddies: Robert J. "Bob" Gilliland, Lt. Col. Ed Yeilding, Lt. Col. Charlie Brakebill and S/Sgt. Dennis Livesay had come to celebrate his induction. Bob Gilliland was Lockheed's Chief Test Pilot for the SR-71 "Blackbird" development and still holds the record for the most flight hours at 3-times the speed of sound. Yeilding is the holder of a number of speed records in the SR-71, including a coast-to-coast flight time of 67 minutes 54 seconds. Charlie Brakebill and Dennis Livesay rounded out Pickron's former USAF comrade's reunion. The enduring bond of these extraordinary veteran aviators was palpable throughout the evening.
Inductees for 2009 included Nashville native Jennifer Cairns Baker; Memphian Jim D. Ethridge; the posthumous induction of E. Ward King of Kingsport and Lt. Col. Pickron of Murfreesboro.
Mrs. Baker was honored for her tireless advocacy for Aircraft Maintenance Technicians and the AMT profession. She owns the Baker School of Aeronautics in Nashville, a world renowned AMT certification training school. Mr. Ethridge, a member of the Memphis-Shelby County Airport Authority and former member and chairman of the Tennessee Aeronautics Commission has made numerous contributions to the entire airports and aviation industry in Tennessee. The late E. Ward King founded Tennessee's first intrastate commuter airline and Lt. Col. Pickron, in addition to his noteworthy military service, served as the State of Tennessee's first Chief Pilot, flying Governors, cabinet members and state officials. He also made flights to successfully transport life-saving human organs in extreme weather conditions.
The Tennessee Aviation Hall of Fame is Tennessee's official aviation hall of fame and the state's Repository & Archive for Aviation History. Those selected for induction must have made a significant and enduring contribution or service to aviation from within Tennessee's borders, or be a native Tennessean who made their extraordinary contribution or service from anywhere in the world. To date, thirty-three men and women who have made or contributed to Tennessee's aviation history have been enshrined. Their stories are displayed on permanent plaques that hang in a place of honor in the Tennessee Museum of Aviation located on the Gatlinburg-Pigeon Forge Airport in Sevierville.
The Tennessee Aviation Hall of Fame is a non-profit IRS 501(c)(3) organization.
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44th ANNUAL TENNESSEE MID-SOUTH AVIATION MAINTENANCE CONFERENCE - March 1-3, 2010 – Nashville – Radisson Hotel Opryland
This nationally acclaimed aviation maintenance conference begins March 2nd with two-days of technology updates for the aviation maintenance professional. This is also an accredited program for IA renewal under the recently revised FAA regulations. Admission is FREE . Click here to register: CONFERENCE REGISTRATION CLICK HERE
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NBC'S TODAY SHOW - WILLARD SCOTT FEATURED MAMA BIRD'S 100th BIRTHDAY
NBC's Today Show celebrity and former weathercaster, Willard Scott featured Evelyn Bryan Johnson's 100th Birthday on November 4th at around 8:30 AM EST. According to Tennessee Aviation Hall of Fame Chairman, Bob Minter, Miss Evelyn was thrilled. She told Bob that she hoped Willard Scott would recognize her 100th Birthday!
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TENNESSEE 99'S DONATE CHARTER MEMBER'S MEMORABELIA
September 29, 2009 – Sevierville
The Tennessee Chapter of the 99's has donated the papers of Charter Member Ruth Thomas to the Tennessee Aviation Hall of Fame's Official State Repository and Archive for Aviation History. Mrs. Thomas chartered the Tennessee Chapter of the 99's in August 1940, an international organization of women pilots founded by Amelia Earhart. Mrs. Thomas became the first female Air Traffic Controller in the United States in 1942. She is a nominee for posthumous induction into the Aviation Hall of Fame.
Tennessee 99's President, Martha Miller said, "We are happy to donate the Ruth Thomas papers and historic documents. We loved looking at them and recalling the historical events associated with Ruth and her many accomplishments, but we knew they needed to be shared and properly preserved. We are just not equipped to do that. The TAHF Repository and Archive Project at Middle Tennessee State University is the perfect place to keep the memory of Ruth Thomas alive."
Established in 1929 by Amelia Earhart, 99 women pilots formed the organization to provide mutual support and advancement of aviation. The Ninety-Nines Organization of Women Pilots has continued and expanded that mission. Today, the 99's promotes world fellowship through flight, provides networking and scholarship opportunities for women and aviation education in the community and preserves the unique history of women in aviation.
Earlier this year, the Tennessee Aviation Hall of Fame accepted a donation of 840 books which were the personal library of a Tennessee, National and International legend, the late Bill Kershner of Sewanee. That collection also resides at the TAHF/MTSU Archives Room in the University's Department of Aerospace Education.
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TAHF MEMBER ABC NEWS "PERSON OF THE WEEK"
August 14, 2009
Tennessee Aviation Hall of Fame member Stan Brock, inducted in 2007, has been named ABC News PERSON OF THE WEEK today.
The ABC News story found Stan and REMOTE AREA MEDICAL in arguably the least remote area in the nation, Los Angeles, California, as RAM treats thousands of the less fortunate who can otherwise get no medical care.
Remote Area Medical was founded around the ability of General Aviation aircraft to reach places oftentimes inaccessible, but Brock says, currently, over 60% of RAM's outreach happens right here in America, much of it in Appalachia, near the organizations home base in Knoxville, Tennessee. Downtown Island Airport (DKX) is home to RAM.
Stan Brock takes no pay for his work, nor do any of his hundreds of volunteers: Doctors, Dentists, Nurses and assistants and so many others who make this extraordinary work possible. RAM volunteers even pay their own way to the humanitarian events they serve.
The story of Remote Area Medical is incredible. Read more about it at: http://www.ramusa.org/ . And you can see the ABC story at: http://abcnews.go.com/WN/PersonOfWeek/story?id=8330961&page=1
Remote Area Medical is one of the great stories about General Aviation in action, and about the best of mankind. You can also read more about Brock at: www.tnaviationhof.org .
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KERSHNER FAMILY DONATES LIBRARY
July 22, 2009 - Sewanee, TN
The family of William K. Kershner has donated his extraordinary personal library to the Tennessee Aviation Hall of Fame.
William K. "Bill" Kershner of Sewanee, Tennessee became a legendary figure in aviation internationally. He was a Naval Aviator, renowned flight instructor, trainer, lecturer and aviation author. His books have numbered 20 editions and 93 printings with total sales of over 1,260,000. Bill Kershner passed away in January 2007. Mr. Kershner received many honors including induction into the Flight Instructors Hall of Fame in 1998 and the Tennessee Aviation Hall of Fame in 2002. He is a nominee for induction into the National Aviation Hall of Fame. The Tennessee Aviation Hall of Fame is the State's Official Aviation Hall of Fame and Tennessee's Repository and Archive for Aviation History.
In 2008, the Tennessee Aviation Hall of Fame partnered with Middle Tennessee State University's Department of Aerospace to formally manage its archives of Tennessee's aviation history. The project is developing a formal database of events and accomplishments in aviation history including significant artifacts and their location across Tennessee. There are plans to publish the database on the internet to facilitate research and to support the aviation hall of fame's aviation education outreach programs. Plans include a series of museum quality displays across the state highlighting aviation history and those who have contributed to it.
Bob Minter, Chairman of the Tennessee Aviation Hall of Fame said, "The significance of this gift by the Kershner Family cannot be over stated. Bill Kershner is a legendary figure in Tennessee's aviation history and around the world. Becoming custodians of this incredible personal library is an honor. Preserving this collection of more than 600 books and making them available to historians, aviation students and researchers is indeed a privilege."
The Tennessee Aviation Hall of Fame, Inc. is a non-profit IRS 501(c)(3) public charity dedicated to preserving Tennessee's aviation history, advancing aviation education, and to honoring those who have made extraordinary contributions to aviation and aerospace. The aviation hall of fame is located at the Tennessee Museum of Aviation in Sevierville, Tennessee.
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SHORT WING PIPER GROUP LANDS IN KNOXVILLE
July 1, 2009 Knoxville, TN
Over 200 pilots, family and friends are attending the 2009 National Short Wing Piper Convention being held this week in Knoxville. Downtown Island Airport has been transformed into a showplace of vintage aircraft flown in by Short Wing Piper member pilots from all over the country. A member from Ireland even made the trip but he came by commercial airline. Visiting aviators are lavishing kudos on Downtown Island Airport Manager Craig Davis and his crew for being such excellent hosts.
Convention activities include tours of the Museum of Science & Industry, the Museum of Appalachia, the Gardens of the University of Tennessee and a luncheon at the Tennessee Museum of Aviation. Seminars being conducted at the Crown Plaza Hotel include aircraft restoration and rigging and how to keep your airman's medical. Evening activities include a dinner cruise on the river.
Tennessee Aviation Hall of Fame Founder and AOPA Southeast Regional Representative Bob Minter delivered the keynote luncheon address on Tuesday.
Following his address to a packed kick-off luncheon held at the Crown Plaza Hotel, Kenny Brown of Lawrenceburg presented Minter with a plaque which read: "For your many years of dedication and devotion to general aviation, for your guidance and expertise in bringing new pilots into the realm of flight, for ensuring that the rich history of Tennessee aviation will forever be appreciated and preserved, on behalf of the Tennessee Chapter of the Short Wing Piper Club, we extend our thanks."
Prior to departures on Friday, Short Wingers will enjoy a Thursday evening Awards Banquet. Their guest speaker will be short wing pilot Sparky Barnes Sargent who has restored her own aircraft, a 1948 Piper PA-17 Vagabond, which took her seven years to complete. Among her many talents, Sparky is an accomplished writer and author. In 2008 she published "A Hunger For The Sky", biographies of women pilots and their extraordinary contributions to aviation.
Special thanks to the Tennessee Chapter of SWP for bringing and hosting their National Convention here in Tennessee.
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2009 AVIATION HALL OF FAME INDUCTEES NAMED
June 19, 2009
The Board of Directors of the Tennessee Aviation Hall of Fame has named the 2009 class of inductees who will be honored and enshrined on November 14, 2009 at the Tennessee Aviation Hall of Fame's Annual Gala held at the Tennessee Museum of Aviation.
Jennifer C. Baker of Nashville has been a staunch advocate of the aviation maintenance professional for more than 30 years. She was named the Federal Aviation Administration's Tennessee Aviation Safety Counselor of the Year in 1999 and serves on many aviation industry advisory committees. Nashville's Baker's School of Aeronautics enrolls over 1,100 students annually who travel to Tennessee from more than 125 countries around the world.
Jim D. Ethridge of Cordova is a former member and chairman of the Tennessee Aeronautics Commission and currently serves on the Board of the Memphis-Shelby County Airport Authority. Ethridge was elected Chairman of the Airports Council International – North American Commissioners Committee in 2008.
Kingsport entrepreneur E. Ward King (1896-1977), will be posthumously inducted. King founded Southeast Airlines in 1956. The airline provided service from Memphis to Tri-Cities and included stops at Jackson, Dyersburg & Union City, Clarksville, Nashville, Tullahoma, Chattanooga, and Knoxville.
Murfreesboro resident William H. Pickron completed pilot training in 1942 at age 19, the youngest pilot in the Army Air Corps. After a distinguished 26-year career in the United State Air Force, Lt. Col. Pickron became the Chief Pilot for the State of Tennessee where for 12 –years he flew Tennessee Governors, Cabinet members and staff.
Aviation legend and Tennessee Aviation Hall of Fame member (2002), Evelyn Bryan Johnson of Morristown will be honored at this year's Gala. Mrs. Johnson will celebrate her 100th birthday on November 4th. Plans are being made to encourage a "Reunion" of her friends and former flight students during the TAHF Gala.
Downloadable invitation and reservation forms will soon be available at:
DOWNLOAD INVITATION & RESERVATION
CLICK FOR EMAIL INQUIRY
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TENNESSEE 4TH GRADER WINS INTERNATIONAL AVIATION ART CONTEST
Two Knoxville Students Place in National Aviation Art Contest Awards
NASHVILLE — Governor Phil Bredesen congratulated two Knoxville, Tennessee elementary students at the state Capitol May 7th for placing first and second in their age group in a national aviation arts contest. The Governor recognized 4th grader Zeth Akins for placing second in the International Aviation Arts Contest. Student Chihye Kim was recognized for winning her age bracket in the National competition. Both children are students in Ms. Jeanne Hardin's class at Cedar Bluff Elementary School.
SEE COMPLETE STORY AND PICTURES BY CLICKING ABOVE ON: CAREERS & EDUCATION
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AOPA SENDS MESSAGE TO TENNESSEE LEGISLATORS
May 15, 2009 - Amid persistent concerns about HB 1122 / SB 0857 the AOPA sent this message to members of the Tennessee General Assembly today:
Dear Member off the Tennessee General Assembly,
On behalf of our more than 7,200 members in Tennessee, AOPA has been closely monitoring HB 1122 and SB 0857 since they were originally filed. Although Rep. Maggart has thankfully recognized the detriment of the airport closure language and has agreed to remove it, we still have concerns about this measure due to our belief that there is inadequate and insufficient due process regarding the reorganization and/or dissolution of an airport authority.
If it is ultimately the will of the Tennessee General Assembly to adopt HB 1122 / SB 0857, we strongly encourage your support for amendments HA 0498 and HA 0499 along with HA 0439. We commend Rep. Curtiss for his carefully considered and well thought out amendments. This combination of amendments eliminates the airport closure language and, importantly, incorporates much needed due process into the potential reorganization of an airport authority.
The technology, Federal regulatory environment, funding and proper management of an airport is very complex. We believe that you will agree that there must be a sound and deliberative process in any well conceived rule of law.
Since 1939, AOPA has been committed to ensuring the safety, future viability, and development of general aviation airports as an integral part of Tennessee's multi-modal transportation system – and we will continue working to this end. If we may be of any further assistance now or in the future, we would welcome that opportunity.
Sincerely,
Bob Minter
AOPA Regional Representative
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WHAT IS AN AEROTROPOLIS AND WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO MEMPHIS?
From Memphis International Airport "Notes" Newsletter – February 2007
An aerotropolis is a city which has centered its economy around and is greatly dependent upon its airport. John Kasarda, a business professor at the University of North Carolina, coined the phrase, and believes Memphis is the closest thing America has to an aerotropolis.
In Memphis, one in four jobs in the community is directly or indirectly dependent on Memphis International Airport. At the Memphis Regional Chamber's annual luncheon on December 14, Kasarda explained the most pressing issue now is how to encourage smart growth around the airport, instead of growth in a spontaneous, haphazard way.
One of the reasons Memphis is the closest city in the nation to an aerotropolis is because it is the world cargo leader. The majority of just-in-time manufactured goods such as medical devices and pharmaceuticals travel to their destinations via plane. Kasarda argues that as air transportation grows, so too will the number of cities strategically developed around this hub of activity.
According to Kasarda, in order for Memphis to grow as an intelligent aerotropolis, the region needs to consolidate its business, airport and urban planning. He believes the roads leading to and from the Airport need to be improved, well maintained and visually appealing because these roads are the first experience many people will have of Memphis.
While the strategic development to become a true aerotropolis is still in the planning stages, one thing is clear; the term aerotropolis is here to stay in Memphis.
Web Editor's Note:
Memphis International Airport is the #1 Air Cargo Airport in the entire world. See the airport's statistics on their website at: Memphis International Airport
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Through this exciting new website, the TENNESSEE AVIATION NETWORK will publish timely news items from across the state and will also include News about the industry as well as legislative initiatives of importance to aviation interests in our state.
Visit this site often, and through email, please provide news and events information we can include here for the benefit of all.
THANKS... and HAPPY FLYING! |
