2022-2023
EAA 187 Minutes, 2023-12-09
by Bill Elliott, Secretary
Pres Ken Matthews presided, starting at 10:03 am. We had 23 in attendance.
Chapter members are reminded to pay their annual chapter dues for 2024. If you send $35 to Treasurer Scott Fish at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. via PayPal on our website, or by check in the mail, please also notify Secretary Bill Elliott at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. If you do not renew by the Jan 31 deadline you will be dropped from the email list and the website member registration. Thanks.
Our program was given by Walter and Juanita Boyd, on their aviation navigation app, iFly EFB. Walter spoke for 47 mins and showed slides of how the app functions. iFly EFB is the complete EFB app for Android, iOS and Windows that has all the advanced features pilots want in an intuitive flight planning and navigation application. They also sell their own iFly tablet ($849). Bill Elliott made a video of the talk and worked with them on a final edit for our website, and maybe on YouTube.
See the Videos menu at the top of this page to click on the link to Walter Boyd's talk, iFly-EFB.mp4
Juanita & Walter Boyd of iFly EFB
EAA Chapter Video: Charlie Becker from EAA spoke briefly. There were 5 Hall of Fame inductees. EAA will offer xix January webinars. We could obtain logo name tags from EAA. Chapter renewal is due at the end of December. EAA is closed Dec 25-Jan 1.
The Annual Banquet and Awards Ceremony, will be on our meeting date of Sat, Jan 13. We will not have the morning meeting, only the evening banquet.
You must be a member or a guest of a member to attend the banquet. We are booked for Pok-E-Jo's Smokehouse, Jan 13, 2024, at 6:00 to 8:30 pm! That is at 610 N. Austin Ave., Georgetown, next to House of Gains Gym. Coming N, take the exit to Williams Dr. from I35 just past Hwy 29 (University Ave.), continue nearly to Williams Dr., and turn right into the parking lot just past the KFC, before you get to McDonald's.
Bring cash to get the 3% discount!! There is a tip jar at the cash register. Get your tray from them, pay, then go to the drink area and condiment bar with pickles, white and red onions, jalapeños, etc. They have sodas, sweet tea, and unsweet tea. Go to the banquet room, which is reserved for us, and have fun!
Let Bill Elliott know if you plan to come, and how many are in your party: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. This is not a reservation but a headcount for the manager.
We adjourned at 11:10 am. Don’t forget to come to the banquet, Jan 13, 2024, 6:00 to 8:30 pm! And see you at the Feb 3 YE rally!
Young Eagles Rally 2023-12-02
The Peacock family's two boys flew with Shane Torgerson in his Beechcraft Bonanza.
Rich flew with Johnny Sublett in his Bellanca Citabria.
Sophia flew with Patrick O'Malley in a Piper Tomahawk.
We flew 10 young folks on Dec 2, 2023 at Georgetown Airport, and one on Nov 22! See the link to 40 photos below:
Link to Dropbox photos.
Minutes EAA 187 2023-11-11
by Bill Elliott, Secretary
Officers for 2024, below, left to right: David Hayek (board), Scott Fish (continues 2 years as Treasurer), Ken Matthews (new Vice President), Bill Elliott (Sec. continues for one more year), and Justin Jones (new President). See photo of Tom Paxson, the new Membership Coordinator and board member, at the bottom.
Below: The EAA 187 cadre for 2024, besides the officers named above, left to right: Gary Hamilton (board and tool chest), William Bennett in back (technical counselor), and Deene Ogden, far right (flight adviser & technical counselor).
We got word that the GTU terminal was to be closed on Nov 11 for Veterans Day. David Hayek contacted Debbie Jolly at the airport and reminded her of our monthly meeting. So they made arrangements for the terminal building to be open for our chapter meeting, Nov 11 from 10 am to 12 noon. Thanks for doing that David and Debbie.
Pres Ken Matthews presided, starting at 10:04 am. We had 22 people in attendance.
Welcome to new member, Michael Jones!
Young Eagles did not fly on Nov 4 because of a low ceiling and IFR. The next rally will be held on Dec 2.
Annual Banquet and Awards Ceremony, will be on our meeting date of Sat, Jan 13. We will not have the morning meeting, only the evening banquet.
Bill Elliott spoke to the manager at Pok-E-Jo's Smokehouse. She has booked us for Jan 13, 2024, at 6:00 to 8:30 pm! That is at 610 N. Austin Ave., Georgetown, next to House of Gains Gym. Coming N, take the exit to Williams Dr. from I35 just past Hwy 29 (University Ave.), continue nearly to Williams Dr., and turn right into the parking lot just past the KFC, before you get to McDonald's.
Pok-E-Jo's remodeled a few months ago, and they now have a nice serving line like their other stores. They expanded their menu with more veggie side dishes! The plan this year is to go through their regular food line and pay individually. The chapter will not collect your money, but we'll give the manager an approximate headcount.
You can tailor your food this way. Bring cash to get the 3% discount!! There is a tip jar at the cash register. Get your tray from them, pay, then go to the drink area and condiment bar with pickles, white and red onions, jalapeños, etc. They have sodas, sweet tea, and unsweet tea. Go to the banquet room, which is reserved for us, and have fun!
Let Bill Elliott know if you plan to come, and how many are in your party: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
EAA Chapter Video: Charlie Becker. Any YE credits from 2022 will expire soon. Webinar in Nov on YE best practices. Volunteer pins and certificates mentioned. Ray Scholarships: >400 ended up with PPLs. Nov 1-Jan 31 period to apply for next year’s Ray Scholarships. The Ray Foundation put out a $600,000 match to complete the new wing on the EAA museum (Dick Gossen visited it). There are other scholarships too. Nov chapter renewal must include 4 regular officers.
The Liberty Ford Tri-motor (Port Clinton, which came here) is ending its career with the EAA and going back home (this is why we got no reply to our inquiries about getting it to come here again). Tom Paxson said there is a Ford Tri-motor in Lufkin, owned by an EAA chapter.
Officer Reports for 2023:
Vice Pres Justin Jones. 2023 programs.
Jan 14, the annual banquet at Pok-E-Jo’s.
Feb 18, KGTU manager Matthew Summerfield.
March 11, Will Cutter.
April 8, John Mahany give a remote presentation on "Loss of Control in Flight".
June 3, Dick Gossen, “How To Destroy A Perfectly Good Solenoid”.
July 8, Dick Gossen, “Don’t Pull That Cylinder!”
Aug 12, Richard Brown on aircraft detailing.
Sep 9, Dr. Cole Weatherby on AME Answers.
Oct 21, Harrison Baumann, Kitfox Model 7. Gary Hamilton on Baby Ace, Michael Garel on AirVenture 2023.
Nov 11, elections. Bill Fluhr motor mount.
Dec 9, Adventure Pilot company on iFly EFB, a GPS pilot app for iPhone, iPad, Android, and Windows.
Treasurer Scott Fish. EAA187 Treasurer’s Perspective [details are available to paid members only]
The Chapter is in great shape financially, we are active financially. YE. Live Banquet.
Live Meetings. Next Summer Sponsorship of YE Campers.
Active Executive Committee and Volunteers Make it Happen.
President Ken Matthews.
Our Strengths— Chapter meetings, presentations, builders.
YE Program— Michael Garel. Working well with 4 spring and 3 fall rallies.
Secretary— Bill Elliott, minutes, videos, website, email system is reliable.
Board— Strong and active.
Need to work on— adult Eagle flights, pancake breakfasts (we have the equipment), a bigger meeting place. Bill said there is a new GISD technical center being built on Airport Road ½ mi. N of airport. We might meet there and open meetings to students.
Elections
We elected Chapter officers for two-year terms starting in 2024 (see photos): David Hayek (board), Scott Fish (Treasurer), Ken Matthews (new Vice President), Bill Elliott (Sec. for one more year), and Justin Jones (new President). Elected but not pictured: Tom Paxson, the new Membership Coordinator and board member. Congratulations to all!
Bill Fluhr from Florida and Cedar Park, TX, gave a show-and-tell presentation about the new motor mount for his fuel-inject VW engine, to go in his project, a Volksplane. He and his son built it. He is building the plane at Breakaway Airport, Cedar Park. He recently got a new throttle quadrant. Photo below.
Deene Ogden saw Bill’s Tony Bingelis book, and mentioned how helpful the 4 Bingelis books still are for builders. Bill Elliott said we are the Tony Bingelis chapter, but we have none of his books in our library. Brad Bellamy said he can donate 2 Bingelis books, and Bill Fluhr can donate his Bingelis books when he is done with his project!
We adjourned at 11:16 am. See you at the Nov 4 and Dec 2 YE rallies. Don’t forget to come to the banquet at Pok-E-Jo's Smokehouse, Jan 13, 2024, 6:00 to 8:30 pm!
Tom Paxson, new Membership Coordinator
Our new Young Eagle Scholars will go to Oshkosh, June/July 2024!
Owen Pike and family.
David Meiners and family.
Minutes EAA 187 2023-10-21
by Bill Elliott, Secretary
Vice Pres Justin Jones presided, starting at 10 am. We had 30 people in attendance, including 11 visitors.
We have embarked on a new educational initiative. With the board’s approval the Sec emailed an application form to 40 Young Eagle families who flew with us in 2023 at Georgetown or Rockdale, to apply for a YE scholarship for their youngsters in 2024. They will attend Young Eagles Camp or Basic Air Academy at EAA in Oshkosh. The deadline was Oct 10. Our Selection Committee (Bill Elliott, Ken Matthews, and Michael Garel) received three applications with essays, and selected two to receive scholarships of $1500 each.
We had three presentations by Harrison Baumann (Kitfox Model 7), Gary Hamilton (Baby Ace project), and Michael Garel (Airventure 2023). Bill Elliott shot videos. We watched the October EAA chapter video by Charlie Becker. The proposed MOSAIC rule was published by FAA in the Federal Register. This rule would open up sport pilot and light sport rules to many popular, faster planes (4 seaters) with a higher stall speed, but a sport pilot would still be limited to one passenger. See https://www.eaa.org/eaa/news-and-publications/eaa-news-and-aviation-news/news/mosic-takes-significant-step-forward
Chapter offices coming up for election on Nov 11 are President, Vice President, Treasurer, and the new Membership Coordinator, who is also a board member. Nominations should be sent to Sec Bill Elliott and Pres Ken Matthews before Nov 11.
We adjourned at 11:25 am.
See you at the Nov 4 and Dec 2 YE rallies. Don’t miss the next meeting, Nov 11!
Aviation Club Awards Two Young Eagle Scholarships
The following article was sent to area newspapers:
Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) Chapter 187 of the greater Austin area met at Georgetown Executive Airport on October 21, 2023, to award scholarships to two young people. They will attend a week-long Young Eagles’ Camp or the Basic Air Academy in June/July 2024, at Oshkosh, Wisconsin. The EAA is based at Whitman Regional Airport in Oshkosh, where the AirVenture airshow and fly-in is held every summer. Chapters are found across many countries.
Owen Pike (13, Georgetown) and David Meiners (12, Austin) are Young Eagles who flew with an experienced pilot at one of the Saturday rallies at Georgetown. These introductory flights are aimed at educating youth in aviation, with possible further involvement in an aviation-related career. The YE flights are free and open to girls and boys of all backgrounds. The youngsters and their families applied for the scholarships, each writing an essay.
David wrote, “The feeling I got as we took off and soared into the clear, blue sky is truly incomparable.
I experienced the incredible thrill of flight through the fantastic Young Eagles program. Ever since, I have aspired to become a pilot and have been regularly attending EAA events. I received Microsoft Flight Simulator, a yoke, and rudder pedals for Christmas and my birthday…”
Owen wrote, “I have been strongly interested in aeronautics for a long time. The Sporty’s ground school has been very informative and has really advanced my level of knowledge to prepare me to pursue a career in aeronautics and aviation. My career aspirations are to become an aeronautical engineer or pilot…”
EAA Chapter 187 meets at 10 am on the first Saturday of each month at Georgetown Executive Airport’s terminal meeting room. Visitors are welcome, and we have many speakers and educational videos. See our web page at https://www.eaa187.org or email us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
To register for the next two YE rallies (November 4 and December 2) for youth ages 8–17, visit this EAA page: https://www.eaa.org/eaa/youth/free-ye-flights Each event is limited to 10 youngsters.
William R. (Bill) Elliott, EAA 187 Secretary
October 23, 2023
Dr. Cole Weatherby
EAA 187 Meeting, Sept 9, 2023
by Justin Jones (Bill Elliott was absent with Covid)
We had 26 people in attendance. New people: Jimmy Pike (dad) and Owen Pike (son). Owen has taken the Sportys ground school and wants to start flying lessons.
Dr. Cole Weatherby, AME (Aeromedical Examiner) from Austin, gave a one hour presentation, AME.Answers, which he recorded to make a video for our chapter. It was a discussion of medical conditions, medications, and situations that might prevent a pilot from using or getting a medical certificate. There were many good questions, and Bill Elliott helped him edit the video.
We watched the September EAA chapter video.
We discussed the upcoming Young Eagle rallies starting in October, but need to contact the coordinator to get details. Ken and the board later confirmed that we will hold rallies on the first Saturday in October, November, and December. The location probably will be Georgetown (GTU), but that could change.
Ken talked about the chapter officers coming up for election in November (President, Vice President, Treasurer and Open Board Member). Nominations are due at the meeting on October 21.
Note added by Secretary: The board later voted to postpone the next meeting to Sat. Oct. 21 because there will be a nice annular solar eclipse on our scheduled meeting date, Oct. 14, about 10:23 am-1:32 pm. So, get outside and see it with eye protection! See you at the Oct. 7 YE rally and Oct. 21!
EAA 187 Meeting, Aug 12, 2023
We met from 10:00 to 11:00 on Saturday morning, August 12, 2023, at Georgetown Airport’s terminal. Pres. Ken L. Matthews presided. Twenty-six people attended, including 3 visitors.
VP Justin could not attend. Scott brought doughnuts. Brian was applauded as our new, additional Tech Counselor. Darrell talked about Tango Flight, which has built 4 or 5 airplanes over the years. Ed is selling some helicopter and other aviation parts in hangar TT18 at GTU.
Ken and Bill gave some highlights from the July 18 Google Meet board meeting. Ken showed photos of his trip to Airventure in Oshkosh, July 24-30. Several members met up with Ken during the airshow. Michael will share his video of landing at Oshkosh later.
Sec. Bill Elliott took minutes and recorded the speaker, Richard L. Brown, who owns Austin Aircraft Detailing. He travels in the Central Texas area to clean and detail aircraft inside and out. Most jobs are above $300. He discussed the products he uses and his methods, which involve a lot of elbow grease. He advises pilots of maintenance issues he finds on each plane (he is a pilot too). His 18-min. video has been posted on our website. Call him.
William R. Elliott, EAA 187 Secretary, 8/18/2023
EAA 187 Meeting, July 8, 2023
We met from 10:00 to 11:30 on Saturday morning, July 8, 2023, at Georgetown Airport’s terminal. Pres. Ken L. Matthews presided. Twenty-nine people attended, including 3 visitors! At least 8 of the folks are planning on going to Oshkosh/AirVenture July 24-30, and another EAA member from Georgetown is going. [Full minutes are posted in the Members Area.]
VP Justin Jones provided food and drinks again. Sec. Bill Elliott took minutes and recorded the speaker (see photo above). Member Dick Gossen, spoke about “Don’t Pull That Cylinder”. Dick’s 47-min. video has been posted on our website. Good job!
Other News
Our President, Ken L. Matthews, became an EAA Lifetime Member on May 8. Congratulations Ken!!
We received a notice about a medical study that will be done at Airventure. The study involves volunteer pilots taking computerized cognitive tests for four hours. The pay is $300 to $500 depending on the level of medical certification. Payment comes upon completion of the tests. Pilots’ names will not be given to FAA; the study is conducted by a third-party contractor for FAA.
The FAA is looking for 960 participants, and the information gathered during the study will be used to establish a normative dataset representing what is usual or expected in a representative sample of pilots. The outcome of this research will help ensure that FAA processes for aeromedical decision-making are consistent with best clinical practices for aerospace medicine and current scientific knowledge.
Recent Experimental Aircraft Video at Georgetown
Akaso EK7000 mounted on lift strut
Bill Elliott and Johnny Sublett have been doing more tests with Bill's small action cams mounted on Johnny's Bellanca Citabria 150S. Johnny flies Young Eagles in this plane, an excellent sightseeing plane with two tandem seats. On July 3, 2023, we rigged the plane with 2 cameras inside and 1 on the right lift strut. Plus Bill had another small camera on a stick roving inside the cockpit. Audio was recorded from the intercom into a small Sony recorder. The camera mounts were all very stable. Bill edited all this into a 13-min. mp4 video that you can see on Bill's Dropbox at this link:
Flight Over Lake Georgetown
Dick Gossen likes aviation solenoids!
EAA 187 Meeting, June 10, 2023
Twenty-nine folks met from 10:00 to 11:30 on Saturday morning, June 10, 2023, at Georgetown Airport.
Pres. Ken Matthews presided. VP Justin Jones provided food and drinks as always. Sec. Bill Elliott took minutes and recorded the meeting on two video cameras (see photo above). We had two members speak at our meeting. Scott Fish spoke about “Experimental Flight Testing” (50 mins.) that he has been doing on his Cozy MKIV plane. There were lots of questions and discussions. Dick Gossen, spoke about “How to destroy a perfectly good solenoid” (28 mins.). Automotive starter solenoids are not built for the prolonged and heavy cranking that an aircraft engine often needs, and will fail in a fairly brief time. Dick also is a UL Power engine dealer, popular on experimental planes. Dick's and Scott’s talks are posted on the members-only area of our website.
Young Eagle Rally, June 3, 2023
Georgetown, Texas Airport
Our 6 pilots flew 9 Young Eagles!
Audry Patterson with Tom Paxson
Caleb Patterson with Patrick O’Malley
Cody Patterson with Haruko Reese
Frankie Lovell with Patrick O’Malley
Jared Chen with Tom Paxson
Luke Halko with Haruko Reese
Sophia Foster with Justin Blackburn
Victoria Foster with David Hayek
William Lovell with David Hayek
Updated 6-14-23: See Justin Jones' and David Hayek's photos!
Meeting on May 13, 2023
Thirteen members met from 10:00 to 11:20 on a rainy Saturday morning at Georgetown Airport. Ken Matthews presided. Our planned speaker could not attend, so our members provided the entertainment. We had food as usual. Sec. Bill Elliott recorded the meeting on two video cameras as an experiment. Gary Hamilton led the Young Eagle pilots on May 6; we flew 10 kids. The radar was out because of a lightning strike the night before, so the tower spaced the planes out. Gary got to visit the tower and discuss the control plan that the controllers used during the radar outage. Bill Bennett talked about an issue that has appeared with cracks around rivets in the horizontal stabilizer in some RV planes, most models except the RV-12. Robert Reese reported on progress with building the plane at Tango Flight, in cooperation with Georgetown ISD. Bill Elliott talked about how to attach small action cameras (GoPro and Akaso) on airplanes. He previewed a video of Johnny Sublett flying a Young Eagle on May 6. We also watched the EAA monthly chapter video.
If you are a paid, registered member, you can see the full minutes with a photo and link to a YE video in the Members Area.
Young Eagle Herbie Love & pilot Johnny Sublett look to the skies!
Young Eagles Rally at GTU, May 6, 2023!
Our latest Young Eagles event was Saturday morning, May 6, 2023, at GTU. Our 4 pilots flew 10 kids, although the cloud deck was a bit low. Most were boy scouts, and troop leader/Mom Deanna Johnson provided us with many great photos. We ran from about 9:15 to 10:45 am.
Thanks to our volunteer pilots: Johnny Sublett [video], Gary Hamilton, Haruko Reese, Shane Torgerson.
https://www.dropbox.com/home/YE%202023-May%206
Meeting on April 8, 2023
We will hold an in-person EAA Chapter 187 Meeting on Saturday, April 8th, 2023 at 10:00 am at the Georgetown Municipal Airport at 500 Terminal Dr, Georgetown, TX 78628.
We are grateful to have John Mahany give a presentation on "Loss of Control in Flight". John has 45 years experience as a pilot, 43 years as CFI. He's a 7-time Master CFI. Many different makes and models of aircraft flown. Founding member, SAFE (Society of Aviation and Flight Educators), partner of a 1953 CE 180 and owner of a 1970 Cessna 150, both based at KLGB. Experience with FAR 135 & 121 operations as pilot and dispatcher. Involved with FAASTeam as Lead Representative, Long Beach FSDO.
His presentation is on the NTSB's Most Wanted List for 2016, and "Loss of Control In Flight" is #1 on the list. He will be providing his presentation remotely. You can learn more about John and his flying credentials at JohnMahanyCFI.com.
Another Young Eagles Event at GTU, April 1, 2023!
YE photos 2023-04-01
A Photo Collage of 2022-2023 Events
Here's a big collage of EAA and Devil Dog events, contributed by David Hayek. Click on the thumbnail below to see the big picture. 3/22/23
Meeting on March 11, 2023
The minutes have been sent out (see Members Area if you are a paid member). We had Will Cutter from Cutter Aviation to speak about their FBO operations at KGTU, the services they provide, and his experiences running the company. We met at Georgetown Airport terminal building, 10-noon.
If you have not paid your dues for 2023, now is the time to do it, as the new roster will be out soon.
Young Eagles Event at GTU, March 4, 2023!
We are hosting a series of four small YE events this spring, on the first Saturday of the month: March 4, April 1, May 6, and June 3. To pre-register your youngster, ages 8-17, contact our YE Coordinator, Michael Garel, at 512-289-4031, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. We will fly only 10 kids each day. Let us know!
Our Chapter's History
EAA is a growing and diverse international organization with a wide range of aviation interests. Originally founded in 1953 by a group of people involved in building their own airplanes, through the years it has transformed into a wide group interested in everything aviation.
EAA Chapter 187 is a tight group of folks located in the Greater Austin Metro Area interested in building custom aircraft, flying, aviation, and beyond. We come from a great range of backgrounds, but share a common passion for the skies. We have regular scheduled meetings and events. We engage other events in the area, helping represent EAA and Experimental Aviation. We hold regular Young Eagles rallies, allowing kids age 8-17 to experience their first flights in a small airplane.
Want to find out more? Come join us at one of our regular meetings and introduce yourself. You will find that our members are open, friendly, and have a great deal of interesting things to talk about. Interested in building your airplane? You're in the right spot! We have builders assistance, tools loan programs, first flight assistance and counseling, and much more.
Program for Feb 18, 2023 Meeting
Our meeting room at Georgetown Airport accidentally got scheduled by the airport to someone else on Feb 11. So, we postponed the meeting to Feb 18 at the usual place, 10 am. We will have a speaker, monthly EAA video, news, and reports from members. The library books and videos will be there too.
VP Justin Jones arranged for the KGTU airport manager, Matthew Sommerfeld to speak at our 2/18 meeting about the Georgetown airport and topics related to airport management, including requirements that may be unknown to pilots. He was asked to update us on the airport master plan, airport facilities and aircraft hangers. Justin will be out of town that day. Please come!
New Members & Their Projects
These projects are featured in the Aircraft/Member Aircraft/Current Projects folder. 3/8/23
Jan 14 banquet was a success
Our banquet at Pok-E-Joe's on Jan 14 was lots of fun, with 38 attending for a buffet meal of brisket, sausage, chicken, green salad, potato salad, pinto beans, and peach cobbler. Deene Ogden presented a slide show about Seth Hancock and Tony Bingelis. Chapter awards were given, and we'll try to post a list of them soon. Later, Bill Elliott uploaded 21 banquet photos to his private Dropbox for the chapter to see. Let Bill know if you still need access to those, please (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.). See photos below.
Ken Matthews, President, officiated the awards with VP Justin Jones.
Deene Ogden spoke about Tony Bingelis and Seth Hancock.
December 10th Chapter Meeting, No Young Eagles Rally
We met on Saturday, December 10th, 2022 at 10:00 am at the Georgetown Municipal Airport at 500 Terminal Dr, Georgetown, TX 78628.
Because of poor weather (low overcast and rain), our YE Coordinator, Michael Garel, called off our Young Eagles Rally. We will reschedule for another event in the spring. Thanks for watching the weather forecast and coordinating, Michael!
We had some interesting reports from members and visitors. William Bennett demonstrated how our chapter's prop balancer works (it is available to paid members). Mark Petrosky is in a Piper Sport flying club out of Spicewood, and they are looking for more owner-members. It is a 2010 model with autopilot, a very nice light sport aircraft. Also, a Rans S-19 (EAB) is for sale in Conroe, TX for a good price. Contact Mark at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
Visitor Frank Carleton took a basic sheet metal course at the McGregor AP, which was very good. Bob Elliott related an incident in June in which a Mooney 201 had to be set down in a field near Kyle. An IFR student was flying under the hood (eyes covered) while the instructor directed. The engine quit and the instructor took command. The plane had some damage but the two men were not hurt. A truck and crane took the plane back to San Marcos Airport, where it was repaired for a breathtaking sum, but insurance paid for it.
There will be no meeting on Sat., Jan. 14, 2023, but don't forget our Chapter Banquet that evening, 6-8 pm, at Pok-E-Joe's BBQ in Georgetown! Bring a spouse, partner, or friend.
HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!
Young Eagles Rallies in 2022
In 2022 we held Young Eagles rallies on May 14 and October 22, and we flew a lot of young people for free. Next time we will try and use the meeting room in the terminal building for registration. While you and your kids wait, we will show some entertaining, educational videos about Young Eagles and the basics of flight physics. Watch this space for a new YE event in the spring!
Tango Flight
TangoFlight is a STEM (Science,Technology, Engineering, and Math) program for students at both Georgetown and East View high schools.
The centerpiece of this program has students build a Van's Aircraft RV-12 two-seat Light Sport Aircraft.
EAA Chapter 187 is co-sponsoring this project, providing experienced aircraft builders as mentors for the students. The aircraft is being built on the East View High School campus, with final assembly and operation at Georgetown Municipal Airport.
Funding for the project is primarily from charitable donations.
Visit Tango Flight on the web at tangoflight.org, and follow their Facebook page.
Rockdale Tiger Flight: help us build a Zenith CH-601
Rockdale Tiger Flight is a group organized by several EAA 187 members in Rockdale, TX.
The group is focused on teaching mid- and high-schoolers airplane building skills. We're done with the tail of RV-6, and have switched over to putting together our full kit for Zenith CH-601. We get together every Saturday at 10 AM, and focus on building those airplanes. We also offer weekly Young Eagles rides to kids, subject to weather and aircraft availability.
This weekly event is free to participants, and we are looking for help! Both kids and adults are welcome!
For more information, log on to rockdaletigerflight.org, or check out our Facebook page. If you have questions, contact us.
Mailing List
To subscribe to our mailing list, please send a request to Sec. Bill Elliott at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. You must be a paid member or a recent visitor to the meetings.
Member Roster
To gain access to the member roster, please register. Please provide your real name as it appears on the member roster, otherwise your account will not be approved.
Ford Tri-Motor Event
To purchase tickets, visit Ford Tri-Motor Tickets.
The event will be held at the Georgetown Municipal Airport
at 500 Terminal Dr, Georgetown, TX 78628.
Share Your Project
If you have a project in progress, completed, or just a cool airplane to post on the website, please contact President Justin Jones, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., or Webmaster Bill Elliott, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., to set up an article page for you. Please include a photo of yourself with the project, and interesting views of parts and the building process. Include the year or even the exact date. It will be featured on the front page for a period of time, and will be recorded in the Aircraft area of the website.
The national EAA website is a cool place to see building projects, and several of our members' projects can be found there at
https://eaabuilderslog.org/?blhome
Just type in your zip code and you can find 8 projects in the Austin/Georgetown area. You may log your project in great detail with photos.
Young Eagles Flights
Ever wondered what your neighborhood looks like from the sky? Or maybe you’re curious how airplanes work.
You may even dream about being a pilot.
If you’re nodding your head "yes" and are between the ages of 8 and 17, then there are thousands of EAA member volunteer pilots who would love to take you on a free Young Eagles flight.
That’s right - a free flight!
Our new Young Eagles Coordinator, Michelle Guardabascio, took office in Jan 2025. She will be announcing new YE events in the near future.
Watch this space for updates. Sign up must be in advance at this link:
So what’s a Young Eagles Flight like?
On the ground: Your pilot explains what will happen during the flight. This might include talking about the airplane, reviewing an aeronautical chart (or map), identifying reference points during the flight, completing a careful “walk around” preflight inspection of the airplane, and identifying the parts that control the airplane.
Just before take-off: Your pilot helps you buckle your seat belt and describes the interior of the airplane, including the instrument panel.
In the air: You have a whole new view of the earth and sky. And, if you want, your pilot may let you take the controls! The flight lasts between 15 and 20 minutes, but if you’re like most Young Eagles, you’ll remember this experience for the rest of your life.
Back on the ground: There’s more time for you to ask questions about the flight. And ask away! Your pilot is happy to tell you more about flying and their particular airplane. You also receive an official Young Eagles logbook, which is signed by your personal pilot, and your name is added to long list of Young Eagles in the World’s Largest Logbook.
Bet you can’t wait to set up your flight! Here’s how:
- Talk with your parents about this opportunity.
- Locate the Young Eagles Coordinator closest to you.
- Contact your local coordinator to schedule your flight.
- Take-off!
Talewinds Archive
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You can pay by check or online. We use PayPal for online payments. You do not need to be registered on PayPal to pay.
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Please make your check payable to EAA 187 and mail it to our treasurer at:
Attn: Scott Fish / Treasurer
8406 Appalachian Dr
Austin, TX 78759
and also please notify new Secretary David Hayek at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
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Welcome to EAA Chapter 187!
[Sorry, but we had a glitch in editing the home page, and I am reconstructing it for a few days…Bill Elliott]
EAA Chapter 187 Meeting, July 12th, with speaker!
Devil Dog, June 14, 2025!
The Devil Dog Squadron had a flying event with their B-25J-30-NC (or PBJ Patrol Bomber, J) at Georgetown Executive Airport. They sold rides for Father’s Day, and also presented a talk to EAA 187. Speakers were Scott Maul, David Hayek, and Tom Paxson. See the video at our Videos page on this website, or click on this link to play it:
Below are some of Bill Elliott's photos of the event. Plus, here is a link to a brief article in the Williamson County Sun, June 18, 2025.
Also, Brad Bellamy showed some of his project’s wires, which are labeled with a heat-shrink labeler. Very neatly done. One can do something similar by printing small labels, then enclosing them in clear heat shrink over the wire.
Minutes of the EAA Chapter 187 Monthly Meeting
June 14, 2025
Georgetown Airport Terminal Building
The meeting was called to order by Justin Jones at 10:05 AM. There were 20 in attendance. 19 members and one guest: Ken Matthew’s father.
The monthly EAA video was shown. This is the link to view the video if interested.
Young Eagles: there was nothing to report on the YE program. The chapter is still looking for a coordinator. Justin suggested the chapter target a rally sometime in September. That will remain as new business.
Air Venture Update: Ken Matthews has reserved three campsites at Oshkosh. The reservation is Sunday July 20 thru Sunday July 27. There will be plenty of room for tents. Contact Ken on 512-653-7919 for information on the use of the site and for those attending Air Venture, you can call him to get location information and visit the site.
Dick Gossen discussed the fly-in arrival procedures to Air Venture and warned all who are planning on flying in to get very familiar with the NOTAM and routes to get into the airport. These are high risk operations for arrivals.
Scott Maul, Development Officer for the Devil Dog Squadron, made a presentation on the aircraft and the squadron operations. Thank you, Scott, for the short notice to present. [Bill Elliott shot a video of the talk, and it is on our website.]
Brad Bellamy made a presentation on printed shrink wrap labels that can be made with print on the wrap as a label. Give Brad a call for more details on these wraps.
The latest membership count for the Chapter is 76 paid members [as of July 1]. Eight previous members have opted out of rejoining this year.
The next monthly meeting is July 12 at 10:00 AM at the Georgetown Airport Terminal building.
Meeting was adjourned at 10:55 AM.
David Hayek, Secretary
EAA Chapter 187 Meeting Reminder, Saturday June 14th
This is a reminder that we will hold an in-person EAA Chapter 187 Meeting, June 14th at 10:00 am at the Georgetown Executive Airport, located at 500 Terminal Dr, Georgetown, TX 78628. We are planning on having a representative from the Devil Dog Squadron to discuss flying, maintaining and preserving the World War 2 era B-25 bomber, the Devil Dog. The Devil Dog Squadron will be holding their Fathers Day event outside the Georgetown airport terminal on June 14th and offering rides every hour from 8:00 am until 11:00 am. Check out their website at Devil Dog Squadron to find out more information on how to reserve a flight for the event.
Looking forward to seeing everyone!
Thanks, Justin Jones Chapter 187 President
EAA Chapter 187 Monthly Meeting Minutes 5/10/2025
Justin Jones called the meeting to order at 10:30 AM. This meeting followed a morning pancake breakfast prepared by Justin Jones and Ken Matthews. A special thank you to Haruko Reese for tutoring the novice pancake cookers on the use of the equipment and the method of cooking some great pancakes. Plenty of volunteers helped with set up, cooking, preparing food, and clean up. All the members present enjoyed the pancakes, sausage, eggs, and fruit. The weather was perfect for the outdoor activity. The meeting was started in the meeting room. Unfortunately, the EAA internet was down so the monthly EAA communication meeting was not shown. There were 21 in attendance; this includes three guests, who are new to the area and will be joining the Chapter: Daniel Kelly, Colin Murphey, and Aditya Anne (who joined, see his photo below). William Bennett gave a presentation on the use of shrink wrap on small gage wire connectors. The wrap replaces the wire splice connectors, which do not work well on the small gage wiring. Ken Matthews updated the group on the Oshkosh camp site reserved for the Chapter. If interested, contact Ken. Other news. There will be a Commemorative Air Force War Bird Expo Ride Day on June 14 with three aircraft participating in the event: The Georgetown B-25 Devil Dog, the Gulf Coast Wing T-6 Trainer, and JRB-6 Navy Transport. For information on the event visit the https://gulfcoastwing.org/ website. The next monthly meeting will be June 14, 2025, at the Georgetown airport terminal. The meeting was adjourned at 11:15 AM. David Hayek Chapter 187 Secretary Aditya Anne, new member Photos of Pancake Breakfast and EAA 187 Meeting, May 10, 2025 By Bill Elliott Here are some snapshots of the two dozen or so folks who came for the great pancake breakfast under the live oaks at Georgetown Executive Airport on May 10. I believe we had 20 people at the meeting inside later, including 4 new guests. Thanks to our cooks and thanks for coming out!
Photos of Pancake Breakfast and EAA 187 Meeting, May 10, 2025
By Bill Elliott
Here are some snapshots of the two dozen or so folks who came for the great pancake breakfast under the live oaks at Georgetown Executive Airport on May 10. I believe we had 20 people at the meeting inside later, including 4 new guests. Thanks to our cooks and thanks for coming out!
Notes on Rockdale Fly-out by Scott Fish
EAA187 traveled to Rockdale on April 12, 2025, to get an updated tour of the Rockdale Tiger Flight operation run by member Jimmy Cox at Coffield Regional Airport (KRCK). Tiger Flight provides youth and mentors with experience refurbishing and rebuilding donated aircraft of a variety of types, and assists the students with EAA Young Eagle flights and time in the cockpit. It’s a wonderful operation enabled by untold hours contributed by Jimmy and other volunteers who care about youth education and aviation restoration.
The visit included four pilots flying in from KGTU and KT74, plus a few members driving out to Rockdale, which is 43 miles east of Round Rock on US79.
Rockdale’s Domino’s Pizza manager was on hand, and provided pizza for the group, as Jimmy described the volunteer program, and showed the various types of restoration activities students are involved in. He also gave a tour of both flying and project aircraft in their nice-sized hangar.
Thanks to Jimmy and Justin Jones for helping set this up and providing a wonderful experience in our Chapter’s extended aviation community.
Photos by Justin Jones
EAA Chapter 187 Monthly Meeting Minutes
March 8, 2025
President Justin Jones called the meeting to order at 10:00 AM
There were 25 members and 13 guests in attendance.
Announcements:
1. The chapter had a tent set up at the Nichols Car Show on March 1. Jimmy Cox was also there promoting the Rockdale Tiger Flight program. We had 10 youth interested in the Young Eagle flights and they left contact information.
2. There is an air show next Saturday, March15, Burnet airport.
3. Jimmy Cox is the new owner of James Aircraft in Rockdale.
4. The chapter is sponsoring a “Fly Out” to Rockdale after the April 8 monthly meeting. Contact Tom Paxson for details.
5. We planned a Young Eagle rally after the meeting, but the weather did not look good.
6. Today we have Owen Pike presenting information on his June 2024 trip to EAA Air Academy.
7. Today we are having an award presentation for Deene Ogden.
Owen Pike, a Young Eagles Scholar, gave a presentation on his June 2024 trip to Oshkosh and attendance at a one-week EAA Air Academy. His trip was funded by the Chapter after a selection process was completed early in 2024.
Owen did an excellent presentation on his activities for the week, and he thanked the Chapter for the opportunity to attend.
Ryan Newman, the FAAST Program Manager Operations from the San Antonio FSDO office was present.
Ryan presented Deene with a complete copy of the FAA records for Deene’s 50 years as a pilot.
Ryan presented the FAA Wright Brothers Master Pilot Award to our chapter members, tech counselor, and flight advisor, Deene Ogden. The award is to recognize individuals who have exhibited exemplary aviation expertise, distinguished professionalism, and steadfast commitment for at least 50 years of piloting experience. This award is the most prestigious award the FAA issued to pilots.
To be eligible for the Wright Brothers Master Pilot Award, nominees must meet the following criteria:
- Hold a U.S. Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) or Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) pilot certificate.
- Have 50 or more years of civil and military piloting experience or 50 or more years combined experience in both piloting and aircraft operations.
- Up to 20 years of the required 50 years may be U.S. military experience.
- The effective start date for the 50 years is the date of the nominee’s first solo flight or military equivalent.
- The 50 years may be computed consecutively or non-consecutively.
- Be a U.S. citizen.
- Have NOT had any airman certificate revoked.
Congratulations Deene
Members can view the two presentations in the Videos link of our website at
https://eaa187.org/index.php/videos
The next chapter meeting will be April 12, 2025, at 10:00 AM.
David Hayek, Chapter 187 Secretary
EAA Chapter 187 Monthly Meeting Minutes February 8, 2025
February 8, 2025
President Justin Jones opened the meeting at 10:00 AM.
There were 34 in attendance. There were 26 chapter members present.
We welcomed six members of the Civil Air Patrol Apollo Composite Squadron based at Georgetown airport.
Lt Colonel Lee Saage, Lt Colonel Sue Kristoffersen, and squadron members Denise White, Jeff Beaulieu, Alexander Hertzler and Christianna White.
Justin also recognized two guests: Adrian Amado and Declan Herbert.
Announcements
1. The first Young Eagle Day for 2025 will be March 1 at Georgetown.
2. The chapter will have a spot with table, tents, and information about EAA at the Nichols Car and Airplane show on February 22 at the Georgetown airport.
3. There are plans to have a fly out after the April monthly meeting with the location yet to be defined. Could go to Rockdale to see the Tiger Flight location with a meal available. More information to come on this. Check your emails.
Members are encouraged to participate in these activities.
The monthly EAA Chapter News video was shown. Each EAA member should have received an email from EAA Chapter News at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Members check your email to view this interesting news video.
Justin introduced Lt Colonel Saage. He gave an interesting presentation on the Civil Air Patrol. Lt. Col. Kristofferson introduced the officers and cadets. A video of the presentation may be posted on the EAA187.org website after the CAP reviews it. The two CAP cadets in attendance, White and Hertzler, presented their experience with the CAP organization.
Recognition awards for chapter support for 2024 were presented to Tech Counselors, Brian Decker and William Bennett, and Membership Support, Tom Paxson. They were not able to attend the January banquet.
There was discussion on the Chapter getting a group camp site at this year’s AirVenture. Contact Ken Matthews if interested in participating. Time is short on scheduling this.
David Hayek
Chapter187 Secretary
Young Eagles Rally Postponed
This had to be moved because the car & plane show has been moved to March 1, and there will be too much activity and traffic at GTU. See below.
Next Meeting and YE Rally, March 8, 2025 This is a reminder that we will hold an in-person EAA Chapter 187 Meeting Saturday, March 8th at 10:00 am at the Georgetown Executive Airport, located at 500 Terminal Dr, Georgetown, TX 78628. Light refreshments will be provided. Looking forward to seeing everyone! We will hold our YE Rally after the March 8 meeting, but we need volunteers!! Please contact Michelle G., our YE Coordinator [see roster]. Michelle G. says, "It's better to move the Young Eagles day from 3/1 to either Sat. 3/8 12 - 4 after the chapter meeting or Sat. 3/15 8 - 12 depending on the availability of the volunteers. I'll update in the coming days." Thanks, Chapter 187 The car & plane show has moved to March 1. YOU MAY REGISTER ONLY AT (or you will be scammed) StephaniesGtownAirportCarShow.eventbrite.com If you have questions on the show email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
EAA 187 Minutes, Annual Banquet, 2025-01-13
David Hayek, Secretary
The 2025 Annual Banquet for Chapter 187 was held at Smokey Mo’s BBQ, Georgetown, on January 10, 2025. President Justin Jones welcomed the 25 members and 9 guests in attendance. Photos of the banquet are posted on Dropbox:
Banquet Photos on Dropbox
Justin recognized members for their support of the chapter in 2024:
Dick Gossen was recognized as the MVP, the Most Valuable Presenter for his entertaining presentations during the monthly meetings. Four of Dick’s videos were posted on our website and on YouTube in the “EAA 187 Videos” subscription.
Fidot Fomichev was recognized for his Web Designer support.
Brian Decker, William Bennett, and Deene Ogden were recognized as Technical Counselors for the Chapter.
Tom Paxson was recognized for his work as the new Membership Coordinator.
Michael Garel was recognized for his work as the Young Eagle coordinator for the last three years.
Five of our Young Eagle Pilots received snappy navy Young Eagle Pilot caps with Chapter 187 stitched on the side. They were Jimmy Cox, David Hayek, Patrick O'Malley, Tom Paxson, and Haruko Reese.
James Cox was recognized for his work at the Rockdale Tiger Flight program, supporting the Scholarship Coordinator role, and his work as a Young Eagles Coordinator with 36 Young Eagle flights from Rockdale.
Bill Elliott was recognized for being our Newsletter Editor, Web Editor, Videographer (recording YE flights and presentations), and his work as the Chapter Secretary.
Scott Fish was recognized for his work as the Chapter Treasurer.
Ken Mathews was recognized for his work as the Vice President and securing speakers for the monthly meetings.
Justin Jones was recognized for his work as a first-time President of the Chapter.
We also recognized a First Flight for a new build. The Tangoflight aircraft, an RV-12, N413TF went airborne for the first time on March 1, 2024, with Gary Hamilton at the controls. The aircraft was delivered to its owner, Tony Hahn of Houston on April 25, 2024.
The banquet concluded with a raffle for many door prizes! One particular table all got prizes.
Soon after the banquet our new YE Coordinator was announced: Michelle Guardabascio, pictured below, who joined our chapter a few months ago. She is working on getting current on her certificate after not flying for some years. Members also can see her picture in our Members Area/EAA 187 Member Photos of the website (you must login). Congratulations Michelle!
Michelle Guardabascio photo
See you all at the regular meeting on Sat, Feb 8, 2025, 10 am at the Georgetown Executive Airport Terminal meeting room. The Civil Air Patrol will present at our meeting!
2025 Banquet Photos
EAA 187 Minutes, 14 Dec 2024
William R. (Bill) Elliott, Secretary
The meeting began at 10 am, Justin Jones presiding. There were 27 present, including 5 visitors. Justin introduced the visitors. There was an update on Tango Flight, which is building an RV-12 over at the Future Ready Complex, part of Georgetown School District. Alex Bartlett was recruited by Justin to speak for our chapter, by invitation, at the Santa Rita Middle School all day in Feb. He is interested in Young Eagles! He is a new member of EAA 187 this year, and a CFI at Pilot's Choice at GTU. He joined us back in March after the airport event. David Hayek is checking with a member couple to possibly serve as YE Coordinators. We watched the monthly EAA Chapter Video by Charlie Becker, 8 mins. Then we had our speaker. Ryan Gromfin presented a talk, “Overcoming Builder Fatigue: My RV-10 Project”. This was a lively slide show of how he solved a number of building challenges, including loss of momentum. One must weigh everything in your life against the cost in time and money. But the end result will be a beautiful plane in which he can take his family to wonderful places. The 51-min. talk was shot and edited by Bill Elliott, and is now posted on our website, and will soon be on YouTube in Bill’s “EAA 187 videos” channel. Bill has posted 14 videos there, and some have gotten large numbers of viewers, especially Dick Gossen’s talks. Ryan Gromfin talks about his RV-10 project We concluded the meeting at 11:23 am, and met outside near the ramp to pose for a group photo with our banner. We last did this two years ago. See the new photo at the top of the Home page. Thanks everyone!! Don't forget our annual banquet on Fri Jan 10, 2025, 7-9 pm, at Smokey Mo's BBQ at Wolf Ranch, Hwy 29 at I35, Georgetown, Texas. Each member pays for his own and his guest's meal. Please notify Pres. Justin Jones of how many in your party. Merry Christmas!!
EAA 187 Minutes, 9 Nov 2024
William R. (Bill) Elliott, Secretary
The meeting began at 10 am, Justin Jones presiding. There were 20 members and 1 visitor present. Short Presentations William Bennett gave a short talk about firesleeves, and how to make them. They can protect fuel lines, wires, and anything that might be damaged in an engine fire. He showed some nifty little stainless steel clamps that can be applied to the sleeves. Talk to William for details. Dick Gossen showed slides and told his story about recently flying out to California. He clocked 148 mph TAS in “the fastest RV-12 in the world.” A year ago he installed a 130 hp UL 350 engine, a 4 cylinder boxer. It weighs the same as a Rotax 912. He improved the plane’s aerodynamics by making slick leg fairings, and got a 3 mph improvement. He had a minor problem on one fuel stop, while the oil dipstick was placed temporarily on the wing. He got a phone call, which distracted him from replacing the stick. On the climb-out he noticed a little oil on the windscreen. He returned to the airport to find the dipstick, but it was gone. He plugged the access with something improvised and went home with a 30 mph tailwind at 8000 ft. agl. Later the airport staff found the dipstick on the ramp. Dick turned 80 today! Officers’ Annual Reports Bill Elliott is retiring soon as Secretary, and he thanked everyone for their support. His job evolved over 2 years, from a position that was basically unattended to one who communicates with the chapter, takes minutes and attendance, types them up and posts them via our Googlegroups email system, and posts them on our website with photos and videos. He manages our email system and our member registration online. He co-edits the website with Justin Jones and Ken Matthews. Bill expanded his role as communications central and as volunteer videographer. Now it is time for someone to take over the traditional job of communications, records, minutes, rosters (with the Treasurer), while Bill continues as a volunteer in website editing and videography. He provided a document on all this to Pres Justin Jones.
We have 70 current paid members, 2 honorary members, including 11 new in 2024. 12 dropped out in 2024. We got at least 3 new YE members since the March event at GTU, but we have not used them yet. Ken Matthews (pictured below looking good) finished one year as VP, after 6 years as President. In reviewing our programs, we have had a large variety of speakers on many subjects, and people enjoy seeing the videos on our website. Ken and Bill will work on putting some of our videos on YouTube.
One of Dick Gossen’s videos on the perils of flying to Oshkosh has been seen by FAA in the aftermath of a fatal accident at Airventure this year. Dick was able to provide follow-up notes and recommendations to FAA. Brian Decker may give a talk on oil analysis, and we will have more short presentations like today. Justin Jones, President (below), is building an RV-12. Chapter 187 started back in the 1970s, and was promoted greatly by Tony Bingelis. Deene Ogden and Brad Bellamy talked about Tony. Look for “Chapter Officers” and “Chapter Bylaws” in the Chapter 187 box on our home page. In 2011 we worked to get into compliance with IRS and the State of Texas, and we are in good compliance today. Our history is on our website in the form of minutes and old newsletters at the bottom of the Members Area: EAA 187 Archives: Newsletters since 1990. Hangar Tales, Tale Winds (Tailwinds), minutes & news. We need to elect a new Secretary and a board member to replace outgoing Bill Elliott and Gary Hamilton. We need to find a new YE Coordinator. Scott Fish, our Treasurer, was working out west in the desert today, but he sent his annual report. We are doing well financially, down a bit since last year. But this year we had more expenses: we sponsored 2 Young Eagles to attend YE Camp in Oshkosh. Elections David Hayek offered to serve as Secretary for two years, and he was approved unanimously. Jeff Greinert was voted in as a new board member, in place of Gary Hamilton for 2 years. The Secretary assumes that this includes operating the chapter’s tool collection in the storage unit next to Gary’s hangar, but this needs to be confirmed. Announcements Brian Decker mentioned member Marc Alexander’s Fly, Walk, Eat and Nav Monster. Tom Paxson mentioned selling rides on the B-15, Devil Dog, on Nov 10-12, for Veterans’ Day. We concluded the meeting about 11:30 am. Congratulations to the new officers, and thanks to those who are retiring as of the Jan 2025 banquet! Next Meeting December 14, 2024 This is a reminder that we will hold an in-person EAA Chapter 187 Meeting next Saturday, December 14, 2024 at 10:00 am at the Georgetown Executive Airport, located at 500 Terminal Dr, Georgetown, TX 78628. We really need a new YE Coordinator! Volunteers?
As we continue to grow and inspire the aviation community, we need enthusiastic members like you to step into leadership roles within our chapter. We're grateful for everyone who has served and is still willing to serve. The volunteer efforts of everyone, not just the leadership, make our chapter vibrant and exemplary. These 2-year term roles will be determined in next Saturday’s meeting, either by vote or in-person nominations. How to Apply If you’re interested in stepping up for one of these roles or would like to learn more about the responsibilities, please email me at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Thank you, Justin Jones President, Chapter 187
EAA 187 Minutes & News, 12 Oct 2024
William R. (Bill) Elliott, Secretary The meeting began at 10 am, Justin Jones presiding. There were 19 present, 12 paid members and 7 visitors, including our 2 speakers. Announcements: Bill Fluhr (absent) sent a flyer for the Cedar Park/Breakaway Park Airport/Whippoorwill Fall Picnic on Oct 19, 11am–2pm. Flyer below. Jimmy Cox (absent) says Rockdale Tiger Flight has room for more youth at the free Saturday program for youth from 9:30 am till 4 pm. They also welcome anyone who wants to help. They are currently fabric covering a wing and working on a Zenith 601 HDS. They have stalled on their panel, as the people working on it have been busy elsewhere. They are also finishing up the annual on our Clipper and J-3, so they should be flying soon. And they have 8 other projects they can work on when these are done. They meet just about every Sat to work on a plane project and take Young Eagles up. Tango Flight in Georgetown is building an RV-12 at the Future Ready Complex (high school) just up Airport Road from the airport. Rob and Haruko Reese and Greg Stearman are working with the school. This is their sixth plane. Deene Ogden gave a show-and-tell about parts for an RV-12. The voltage regulator runs hot, and when it fails is kind of pricey to replace. But one can build a ventilation cover for it in metal, or make it with a 3D printer. The best result was 3D-printed in carbon fiber. The meeting was over at 11:30. Check the photos in this link: Meeting photos 10-12-2024 Deene Ogden, in green shirt, showed us two 3D-printed covers for a voltage regulator. The black one is of carbon fiber, and quite heat-resistant. The covers are ventilated to extend the part’s life span. David Meiners, 13, is one of our YE scholars. He gave an 11-min. slide talk about his trip to Oshkosh to attend a Young Eagle Air Academy Summer Camp. The video is on our website under Videos. Way to go David! Our main speaker was Lt. Game Warden Dwayne Havis, here with wife Celeste Lunceford. He told the harrowing story about his controlled crash into Lady Bird Lake, Austin, caused by a turbo fire in his Cessna 206, on a test flight after annual inspection by Texas Parks & Wildlife Dept. Dwayne is a skilled survivor! See his talk in Videos. Rockdale Tiger Flight Meetings We have room for more youth at our free Saturday program in Rockdale for youth. We also welcome anyone who want to help. We are currently fabric covering a wing and working on our Zenith 601 HDS. We have stalled out on our panel and the people working on it have been busy elsewhere. We are also finishing up the annual on our Clipper and J-3 so they should be flying soon. And we have 8 other projects we can work on when these are done. If you know any youth who would like to get involved in aviation have them look at our FaceBook page Rockdale Tiger Flight. We meet every Saturday from 9:30 am till 4 pm. And we can do Young Eagle flights most Saturdays. Thanks Jimmy Cox Tom Paxson's 1968 Piper PA-28R-180, or Cherokee Arrow, is a four-seat, low-wing aircraft with retractable landing gear and a 180-hp engine. Tom's was in the shop at MC Aircraft, Devine, TX, since March after some hail damage on September 29, 2023. The interior will be updated by the end of October. Congratulations Tom! See photos: Tom's Piper Arrow Sept 14 meeting at Smoky Mo's BBQ By Bill Elliott, Secretary We missed having an August meeting because the GTU terminal meeting room was being used as temporary office space by Cutter during reconstruction of their offices. Members may read the full minutes in the Members Area of this website. President Justin Jones began the Sept meeting at 10 am. We had 23 folks attending at Smoky Mo’s BBQ, Wolf Ranch Town Center, in Georgetown. We got the meeting room for free, and many of us stayed to have lunch, which the manager appreciated. There were 3 visitors, and 2 joined the chapter: Rudy Albachten and Mark Conway. Rudy was our chapter’s Treasurer about 20 years ago; he has an RV6A project. Welcome back! Rob Reese said that Tango Flight, our group who works with youth building an RV, has moved into the new Future Ready Complex [high school] near Georgetown Airport. The aerospace teacher may look into allowing EAA 187 to hold our meetings there. Michael Garel has resigned as YE Coordinator, and we may not hold the Oct 5 YE rally unless we get a coordinator. It is a volunteer position. At the Nov business meeting we will elect a new Secretary to replace Bill Elliott. His two-year term as Secretary is up, but he will continue as the volunteer web editor, librarian, and videographer. Gary Hamilton’s term as a board member also is up, so a new person will be elected. Please let Justin Jones know if you are interested in these jobs, or if you have a suggestion. We viewed the EAA Chapter Video Magazine by Charlie Becker. New YE software was in beta testing, and became available a few days after our meeting. It will make YE and chapter record-keeping better. Dick Gossen went to Airventure at Oshkosh. Sadly, a pilot crashed and died 1 mi. from the airport on his way in for a landing, just as Dick predicted would happen when he gave his talk to us on July 13, “The Perils of Endeavor Bridge!” This video is on our website for anyone to see. Dick presented that talk at OSH, and discussed remedies to the crowding of aircraft of different speeds coming into OSH, but there are political and legal issues. This will take time, and probably more accidents, to sort out. David Hayek reviewed our recent survey of our members by email. Only 25% of the members replied to the survey about what we want to do as a chapter. We may explore the idea of doing a fly-out soon. Our next meeting will be back at GTU, and our speaker will be Dwayne Havis, who made an emergency landing in Lady Bird Lake, Austin, a couple of years ago. We adjourned for lunch about 11 am. Ken Matthews showed us some of his photos from Oshkosh, and discussed Burt Rutan's talk. Ken Matthews showed us his Oshkosh slides Next meeting Sept. 14 at Smokey Mo's BBQ!! We will hold an in-person EAA Chapter 187 Meeting Saturday, Sept. 14th at 10:00 am at Smokey Mo's BBQ, at 1013 W University Ave Suite 310, Georgetown, TX 78628. We will meet in the private back room at Smokey Mo's in the Wolf Ranch shopping center at the inter-section of Hwy 29 (W University Ave) and IH35. It's in the SE quarter of the area, near the SE entrance from the southbound access road. Our regular meeting room at the GTU Terminal building is still not available. We expect it to be ready next month. We are soliciting EAA 187 Chapter members to give reports from Oshkosh AirVenture 2024. If you are interested in giving a report about AirVenture, please prepare up to 5 pictures and discuss up to 5 things you learned by attending AirVenture. Please bring images on a USB stick so we can quickly show and copy them. Please let Ken, Justin, and Bill know if you would like to present so that we can plan accordingly. We are open to focused project reports as well. Tom Paxson may discuss our recent survey of members about a possible fly-out event. Light refreshments will be served at the meeting. If you're able, consider staying for lunch after the meeting as a "Thank You" to Smokey Mo's for hosting us. They make good bbq! It's been 2 months since we've met! We look forward to seeing everyone! We are in need of a new YE Coordinator--please contact Pres. Justin Jones. Buz Landry Obituary January 31, 1937 - July 9, 2024, age 87 Buz (not "Buzz") was known around town by many as "Mr. Georgetown". Many remember seeing Buz with his ever-present cowboy hat at the Saturday morning coffee group at the Georgetown Airport terminal. He had a long history with the airport and aviation. See his obituary for more details. Buz will be missed. Buz Landry obituary
Buz Landry obit in Sunday Sun
Bill Fluhr's Volksplane pictures and website at https://vp2.fluhrhotel.net/ Bill has been working on restoring this homebuilt plane with his sons, Eric, shown here, and Ken. They are fitting it with a nicely rebuilt VW engine.
Picked up in Midland, TX on a very cold day in January, 2017 and trailered to its new home in Cedar Park, TX.
Here's the updated engine and Sensenich prop, 60 x 32.
The long block completed.
The sturdy motor mount, TIG-welded by son Ken.
See Bill's project at https://www.eaa187.org/index.php/current-projects and at https://vp2.fluhrhotel.net/
Article about local Young Eagles (August 2024 Cedar Park City Lifestyle)
Click to read about Young Eagles in the magazine
Cover photo: Johnny Sublett and Trevor at YE rally
LAST MEETING EAA Chapter 187 Minutes and News
Bill Elliott, Secretary, July 13, 2024
Justin Jones opened the meeting at 10 am. We had 29 folks attending, including these 8 visitors: Marc Alexander, James Alwin, Chris Hamrick, Chris Handwerk, Marvin Hulshizer, Henry Koenig, Kirsten Swain, Ailer Swain, and Lenny Tropiano . Lenny Tropiano and Marc Alexander joined the chapter after the meeting; they also are members of EAA Chapter 1607, Lake Travis, TX, Rusty Allen Airport, Lago Vista. Justin showed us the nice Chapter 187 sign made by William & Dyan Bennett for this year’s Airventure at Oshkosh. Members signed the back of the sign. Greg Stearman, chapter member who also is with Tango Flight, said they will soon move their RV project from Eastview High School to the new Future Ready Center just up Airport Road from GTU. We can contact Peter Dittmer, the technical teacher they are working with, about our chapter participating in aviation events at the school. Dick Gossen gave a 32-minute presentation, “The Perils of Endeavor Bridge” about flying safely to Oshkosh. Endeavor Bridge is a waypoint and convergence point for planes going into OSH. Bill Elliott and Justin Jones made a video of his talk, and Bill edited and posted it on our website at https://www.eaa187.org/index.php/videos Dick has some good stories about near collisions in the crowded queue arriving at OSH, and recommendations to avoid problems. Don’t arrive on Sunday afternoon! Marc Alexander spoke for a few minutes about his “Fly, Walk, Eat” website. One can get discounts at some airports on the way to Oshkosh. Check it out at https://www.flywalkeat.com/ We then watched the monthly EAA Chapter video, given by President Jack Pelton. We adjourned about 11:00 am. Members may read the longer, official minutes in the Members Area of this website. EAA
Chapter 187, Minutes & News GTU, June 8, 2024
Dan Nicoson spoke about his BD-4C project. There was joviality.
Pres. Justin Jones started the meeting at 10:01 am. Sec. Bill Elliott made these notes. Justin called for guest introductions. 25 people attended including 5 visitors. Young Eagles events for 4/6, 5/4, and 6/1 were cancelled due to weather. We will resume YE operations on October 5. Keep an eye on the Georgetown Future Ready Learning Center, a large, attractive school ½ mi. N from GTU up Airport Road. We hope to get involved in educational events there. They are finishing the interior now. The Devil Dog B-25 will be doing flights on Father’s Day weekend, June 16, at GTU. We viewed the EAA chapter video by Charlie Becker. Tom Paxson talked about going to Oshkosh/Airventure in July. Members told some funny Oshkosh stories. Dan Nicoson spoke about his BD-4C project, a fast, 4-seater plane. The 38-min. video was recorded by Bill Elliott and Justin Jones, then edited and posted by Bill on our website under Videos. Comments and questions from the back of the room were difficult to record and hear because of the room’s excessive echo, plus cross-talk from the coffee crowd in the hall. However, Dan’s voice came through fine with the use of a bluetooth lapel mic. Bill Fluhr was ready to speak, but the meeting ran a little long, so he volunteered to speak next time.
Thanks for your patience, Bill. See you next time!
Bill Elliott, 6/12/24
EAA Chapter 187 Meeting 5/11/24
Pres. Justin Jones started the meeting at 10:00 am and made these notes. Sec. Bill Elliott was on a trip. Justin called for guest introductions, but no new guests were present or wanted to introduce themselves. 17 people attended. Young Eagles announcements: YE events on 4/6 and 5/4 were both cancelled due to weather but were able to do tower tours. Also did a pre-flight of an airplane for all kids who were present.
Tango Flight news: Tango Flight has shut down this month for the summer, will start again in September, possibly at the new Georgetown school district facility across the street from the airport. Tango Flight has started the empennage for the next RV-12.
Mike Montefusco Presentation
by Mike Montefusco titled Gyrocopters: Letting Air Do The Work! He has an AutoGyro GmbH Calidus. Mike spoke about 1:40. Our amateur video setup could not capture the whole thing, but we hope to get Mike’s pdf about his talk. You can see a 4 min. YouTube of Mike's autogyro Calidus at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tR35yedyruE Henry Koenig (14 years old) attended the meeting with his mother. He is an EAA member but wants to sign up as a chapter member. He has been to previous chapter meetings. Edited by Bill Elliott April 13th Meeting President Justin Jones presided at our EAA Chapter 187 Meeting on Saturday, April 13th at 10:00 am at the Georgetown Executive Airport, located at 500 Terminal Dr., Georgetown, TX 78628. 29 people attended, including 3 visitors!
Chapter member, Dick Gossen gave a 57-min. presentation called “Unbelievable Compressions!…and two short stories”. That video was edited by Bill Elliott and posted in our Videos menu. Look for Gossen-Compressions.mp4 in our Dropbox folder. Thanks to Justin Jones for running the Sony mic, and Dick Gossen for all his help and expertise! The April 6 YE rally did not happen because of weather. We look forward to the May 4 rally at Georgetown Airport. The official, detailed minutes are posted in the Members Area. Ken Matthews recently acquired a partially built Long-EZ kit and moved it to Lago Vista Airport on March 30, 2024, with the help of EAA 187 Chapter members. See this link for photos: Long-EZ Project
EAA Chapter 187, Minutes & News, GTU, March 9, 2024
President Justin Jones started the meeting at 10:00 am. 27 people attended including one visitor and one new member:
We flew 13 youngsters at our March 2 YE rally! Our 3 technical counselors presented an hour-long program.
Our 3 technical counselors presented an hour-long program. Deene Ogden spoke about paint and painting, William Bennett spoke about nut plates, and Brian Decker gave a thorough examination of carbon monoxide: its effects on the pilot, how to detect it, and how to find all the places it comes into your cockpit from the exhaust system. You would be surprised at where it gets in. Since the cockpit is usually at slight negative pressure, any leakage from the exhaust system can get entrained from gaps in the cowling into, air intakes, even at the rudder area! Brian recommended small portable CO detectors, and forget the cheap indicator cards that expire after a short time and don’t tell you ppm anyway.
Bill Elliott recorded a video, while Ken Matthews and Justin Jones assisted with mics. The 57-min. video, titled “Three Technical Counselor Talks” is now posted on our website under the Videos link.
Thanks to our speakers for an interesting program!
Deene Ogden, Paint
William Bennett, Nut Plates
Brian Decker, CO (Carbon Monoxide)
Calendar
Next Young Eagle Rally is April 6, 2024, at GTU (Georgetown Airport).
Next meeting is April 13 at GTU.
Bill Elliott, Secretary and Newsletter Editor, March 13, 2024
EAA 187 Minutes and News
Chapter Meeting & Zoom Talk on the "Perfect Landing", 2024-02-10
by Bill Elliott, Secretary, Feb 28, 2024
Pres Justin Jones led the meeting at 10:00 am, attended by 18 folks, including 3 new or renewed members, 2 visitors, and the speaker. About 7 viewed the Zoom talk from home.
Due to the weather conditions forecasted for Saturday morning, Mike Montefusco was not able to attend the meeting in person to give his presentation on Gyrocopters, but he spoke via Zoom. He will come in his gyro sometime and do that in person!
VP Ken Matthews set up a laptop with the TV for Mike to give a good remote presentation on Zoom entitled "Perfect Landing—The result of Practice and Precision." The viewing and sound were good on the big TV, and we were able to ask questions and interact for over 1 hr. and 25 min.
I did not get a recording of the talk, but Mike took lots of questions. He said that one should use the concept of gates in the airport pattern, and map out exactly what you need at each gate. He recommends saying out loud, “landing assured” on final, and don’t pull full flaps until you are assured that you can make it. He personally wants 1000 ft. AGL, not 800 ft. for the typical traffic pattern, or 100 ft. more than recommended at Gate 3 (base to final turn). That way you have more height to spend if needed in an emergency, like a go-around or anything.
Mike sent us a worksheet that he used, linked here: Traffic Pattern Gates Worksheet
Gary Hamilton said that Tango Flight meets on MWF. Dan Nicoson invited members to come to his place in Round Rock after the meeting to see his BD-4 project.
We have 2 new YE videos from Feb 3 by Bill Elliott & Johnny Sublett with Young Eagles "ML" and "TK"! Our YE pilots took 13 youngsters up that day!! See the Videos link at the top of our website home page to view it.
EAA 187 website: https://www.eaa187.org/
See our Google Calendar on this website at "Events Calendar." Our next Young Eagle Rally is on March 2, next meeting is March 9!
Georgetown Car & Plane Show
We had a booth on the taxiway during the Georgetown Car & Plane Show on Sat, 2-24-24. We were flanked by Johnny Sublett’s Citabria and Fidot’s Marquart MA-5 Charger biplane, with the B-25 Devil Dog across the taxiway. Young Eagle rallies for March 2 and April 6 are already full with 13 each. We signed up 9 families for YE flights on May 4 and June 1. And we met three pilots who want to help us fly YE! See below.
Welcome to New Members and YE Pilots!
Alex Bartlett, Round Rock, CFI at Pilot's Choice/GTU, joined EAA 187. EAA #1579987.
Desiree Staffeldt, Austin, from Fredericksburg, Chap 1099, EAA #1480416. Took YE training & background check.
Spencer Wilt, Georgetown, CFI at Aeroguard/GTU, will join us soon. His daughter will fly on May 4. Comings and Goings
Stan Schmidt recently moved from Georgetown to Boerne, where he is still working on his Zenith CH-750 project (see photo). “Hi Bill, Miss you Guys. Things are going good! Plane should be flying soon. Probably should take me off the email list.
Thanks, Stanley Schmidt” But you can call or write him: 970-846-3350 This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Sad News: Pok-E-Jo’s Closed
Gayle and I tried to go to Pok-E-Jo’s Smokehouse in Georgetown on Feb 28, but it is “Permanently Closed” according to their website. We had 3 EAA 187 banquets there! They weren’t getting a lot of customers, unfortunately, maybe because the parking lot is usually clogged by folks going to the gym next door. Who knows? I thought it was a great bbq place.