To Be or Not To Be?

30 Pages·2014·1.72 MB·English

To Be or N ot To Be?
By Betty McNabb
Your Membership Chairman
The Round Table on Membership in Al­ Ninety-Nines” organization. But as pilots, we are an organization
bany (and wasn’t that a wonderful As many of you know from experience, which can contribute mightily to general
convention!) was gratifying in one respect— the rewards come from what you give, not aviation, constantly threatened, as you well
a tremendous amount of interest was shown. what you get, and you get those rewards know, by other facets of aviation and
So much that we couldn’t get around to because you do give, as Ninety-Nines do, government. We know the absolute
everybody—and that was an “ungratifying” unstintingly, in many aviation endeavors. economic usefulness of general aviation; we
part. The very strong feeling some have against know that the nation actually can not handle
Questions, questions: How do we recruit “dead-wood” must be re-evaluated, possibly the problems of transportation without it.
successfully? How do we retain? What in the light of two classifications, the do-ers By our very nature, the tremendous
actually are our objectives? Should we and the supporters. Many people are turned versatility and wide spectrum of our diverse
change our name so that people will know off by the term “inactive.” In fact, I would life-styles, we can be a useful tool in
more about us? What should the be. When I lose my medical, which is, of convincing the man in the street that general
classifications of membership be? How can course, inevitable some sad day, I expect to aviation must live.
we make meetings meaningful?? Why are we continue to bea Ninety-Nineand participate Our supporting members can be the
losing people? somehow as long as I’m physically and mainstay of our organization without ever
And a hundred more. mentally competent. taking a foot off the ground or attending
There are no pat answers to many of these A member of our chapter has developed most of our meetings.
questions, but 1 think we can develop severe hypertension—but she has no I’m totally aware of the feeling some
answers to some of them. intention of quitting The Ninety-Nines. She Ninety-Nines have about letting the
There’s only one way to recruit and retain. will continue to lend her expertise, her organization fall into the hands of non­
And that’s make the organization so executive capabilities, and her warm flying “senior citizens.” And of course, we
attractive that people will want to join, and support to The Ninety-Nines. We need her. acquire more and more of these seniors
want to stay with it. But how to do those We also need our professional women, simply because they’re a hardy bunch who
things is not easy. those in aviation, the medical professions, won’t let Father Time catch up with them.
We seem to be a cross-breed of woman’s the law, government—women who fly but They themselves want to see the destiny of
club, civic club, volunteer group, highly who simply can not take the time to attend a The Ninety-Nines in the hands of young,
professional organization, a spectrum of meeting once a month, or perhaps once a vital, flying women, nevertheless, the older
pilots, not a strata. We range from the year—but whose names, guidance and ones do have the background, the
dedicated to the diletante, and if you’ve moral support we need. expertise—and sometimes the extra time
forgotten the definition of that, or one of I personally dislike the “many-meetings” and even extra money!
them, here it is—a person who cultivates a requirement of some chapters. If a Ninety- So think about what you want to do with
branch of knowledge as a pastime, especially Nine introduces and vouches for a new The Ninety-Nines—think about the
sporadically or superficially. Also known as member, why should that member have to contributions we’re making every day to
amateur. go into a "pledge” type of thing? And if she’s general aviation, to aerospace education, to
And we have some of those, too. They are a stranger, 1 admit you take your chances. collegiate flying, and to many other phases
a segment of The Ninety-Nines which we As for why people don’t join, and why of aviation, professional or otherwise.
need, because they often have the time to do they drop out—some of this is based on Decide what you’d like to see done to
the things which more professional members changing life-styles. People lose their revitalize our organization and make
of our organization, simply can’t get around medicals, financial reverses make it yourselves heard. s9
to doing because of other commitments. impractical to fly, we get married and move,
But our organization is for all women we have babies, we change jobs—there are
pilots, (or is it...) and every member has many reasons why we drop out and one of
something to contribute. In fact, one of the them is boredom. If the local chapter doesn’t
things it would be good to remember is that make meetings really interesting, who wants
everything we do should not be undertaken to waste today’s precious time to fly or drive
with the question: “What’s in it for me?” in somewhere, even across town?
mind. Over the years, we have gradually The professional women in many cases
become more action-oriented, and as in are already in the “big time” and don’t need
Civil Air Patrol and Coast Guard Auxiliary, membership in our organization, nor could
we are becoming a "what can 1 do for The they participate actively if they joined.
ON THE COVER: Copeland Airport - No. 1 in
convenience and service. See story Page 9.
New members will win the RACE
for your chapter/section!
Publisher
The Ninety-Nines, Inc.
Editor n w S H iw iu s
USPS 390-740
Marilyn Ratzlaff
Circulation Manager
Loretta Gragg Volume 7 • Number 1 • January-February, 1980
Headquarters Secretary
Virginia Oualline
Editorial Assistants This Month in The 99 NEWS
Nema Masonhall, Nancy Smith
Advertising Manager Activities & Projects - a look at 99s on the move .................................. 12
Marilyn Ratzlaff A.E. Scholarships - The First Research Scholar ....................................... 6
International Officers Air Age Education - Workshops shoot tor the stars................................... 11
President Along Legal Lines - Are you covered ..................................................... 12
Thon Griffith
314 Robinhood Lane ETC. - General Information, chapter reports, etc.............................................. 27
CosVtai cMe ePsare, sCidAe n92t 627 Cloud Ninety-Nine - 50th Anniversary Celebration ................................. 21
Janet Green Legislation Information - The Great Used Car Dealer in the Sky .......... 11
Rt. 7, Box 293W
Ocean Springs, MS 39564 New Chapters - Cameron Park .................................................................. 8
Secretary New Horizons - Farewall to Marion Barnick <£ Jean Ferrell ......................... 5
Hazel Jones
8536 Mediterranean NIFA- Region X SAFECON ........................................................................ 10
Dallas, TX 75238
Treasurer On The Cover - A 99 Airport - Copeland ................................................... 9
Gene Nora Jessen Racing - First Annual All Women Baja California Air Race ............................ 26
2814 Cassia
Boise, ID 83705 The Great Race - To Be or Not to Be? ..................................................... 2
Thoughts from Thon - in-house computers ............................................ 4
Board of Directors
Ruth Dobrescu Vail Convention 1980 - Registration Information .................................... 22
Charlene Falkenberg
Lois Feigenbaum
Barbara Goetz
Advertising
Betty Jane Schermerhorn
The 99 NEWS Cessna Aircraft ....................................................................................................................... 7
International Headquarters Sporty’s ..................................................................................................................................... 6
Terminal Dr. & Amelia Earhart Lane The Antiquary........................................................................................................................... 8
P.O. Box 59965 The Great American Mint............................................................................ 17
Will Rogers World Airport
Oklahoma City, OK 73159
[phone]
Circulation Information
The 99 NEWS is published ten times yearly. January-February and July-August issues are combined. Annual
subscription rate is $7.00 and is included as part of the annual membership of The Ninety-Nines, Inc. Subscriptions
are available to non-members at the rate of $7.00 per year.
Membership Count: 5186 as of Dec 14, 1979 Postmaster: Please send Form 3579 to: The Ninety-Nines. Inc.. PO Box 59965. Will Rogers World Airport,
Oklahoma City. OK 73159 2nd Class Postage paid at Oklahoma City. Oklahoma and at additional mailing offices
under 2nd Class Publication 4390740
^ t s From Thon
At various times over the past couple for section elections, section meetings, computer operator? The answer is no.
of years, the International Board of etc. These labels are updated constantly Loretta Gragg, Headquarters Manager,
Directors has discussed the advantages of as addresses change, names change, 99s has previous experience w'ith computers,
having an in-house computer at our transfer, drop out or join. We print however, both Loretta and Virginia
Headquarters in Oklahoma City. We monthly membership lists for each Oualline will be trained to operate it.
have checked purchase prices, lease chapter and for sections twice a year. At this point, 1 should tell you I made
agreements, maintenance costs, actual As the committee began comparing the brief mention of this urgent need at the
operation by the present Headquarters costs of leasing time versus purchase, Southwest Section Meeting last Septem­
staff and the many other attendant they investigated the Wang 2200, IBM ber. Bless Ninety-Nines, the several who
considerations. Each time we looked into 5110, Microcomputers, Texas Instru­ were familiar with computers in various
the subject, it was obvious that we had ment DS990. Radio Shack TRS 80-11, capacities, offered to help in any way
the best deal of all by continuing to use Data General 9064 and several others. needed. Santa Barbara 99 Marion
the data processing center at Turco They looked at the advantages of new Fickett offered to fly to HQ at her own
Manufacturing in DuQuoin, Illinois. and used. Each had something to offer, expense to lend a hand, Fran Grant had
Turco is Bob and Lois Feigenbaum’s but our guideline is the need to spend the her knowledgeable son make a cassette
company and through their generosity. same amount or less than presently tape for the committee and Jean Ferrell
The Ninety-Nines have been able to use being spent annually. said she would spearhead a fund drive
time on their company computer at such When we have a computer to work within the Southwest Section to buy the
a favorable cost that, in the past, it would with, Turco Manufacturing will provide computer! Jean promptly began ex­
have been foolish to consider a change. a duplicate program whereupon we will changing letters with Janet Green who
Today, Headquarters is working at operate our computers simultaneously had already given considerable time to
capacity, so as The Ninety-Nines grow for a few months until we know we have it researching types of computers, lease or
and we initiate new services, the need to functioning the way you all would like to purchase, new or used. Jean then
have our own computer becomes urgent. see it function. followed up by coming to our October
A committee composed of International Most of you know of the demands on Board of Directors meeting in OKC at
Vice-President Janet Green, Memphis our Headquarters staff, but let me her own expense to discuss the computer
Chapter member Rosemary Williams explain to those who are new or unaware. and determine our uses for it.
and more recently, Jean Ferrell of the They process about 600 new member The Directors became so enthusiastic
Los Angeles Chapter, have been seri­ applications per year, maintain lists of all during that meeting that they each
ously investigating the need. Because all 5,000/plus Ninety-Nines, their addresses, donated $50.00. Other donations have
three are knowledgeable in the field of chapter affiliations, ratings, hours, arrived at HQ (a special savings account
data processing, they have been able to transfers, reinstatements, dues renewal has been opened for “The 99s Inc./
present the problem and its economics in dates, name changes as well as chapter Computer Fund" a tax deductible
terms your Board can understand. and section count changes, former donation). The total at this writing
Happily, they are all concerned and member information and more. In already stands at $3,630.00 and each
interested Ninety-Nines pursuing a addition, they reply to dozens of letters donor will have her name (or the chapter
common cause. weekly (they average 775 pieces of mail name) inscribed on a scroll which will be
A popular concept was that of leasing per month), cope with busy telephones, framed and hung at Headquarters soon
computer time or time-sharing, which keep the books and make deposits of after the computer is operating. 99
means buying or leasing a terminal for thousands of checks per year. Presently
the Headquarters office, but having the all membership information is mailed to
actual computer elsewhere in Oklahoma Illinois and our accounting is handled by
City. The initial savings are misleading another computer firm in OKC. All of Editor’s Note: After Thon's column was
since all “time" used would be rental time this would be kept in our Headquarters received, she telephoned Headquarters to
and would continue until such day as we and in addition, we would store (and give us the sad news that two Ninety-
gave up the program or converted to immediately recall) the mountains of Nines, former Southwest Section Gover­
purchase of our own computer. Addi­ information which is now nearly impos­ nor Marion Barnick and Jean Ferrell lost
tionally, we would need to have their sible to find in the archives we are their lives in the tragic crash of the DC-10
standard computer programs tailored to accumulating. People are becoming which left New Zealand November 28,
our many and varied uses. Also, we increasingly aware that The Ninety- 1979 on a sightseeing flight to the
would need to lease or purchase a printer Nines is the most accurate and complete Antarctic. She asked that contributions
since much of what we do involves source of information on women who fly, received for the computer be listed as a
printing thousands of labels — The 99 but unhappily the information is not lasting memorial to Jean. A scholarship
NEWS, renewal notices, membership readily available now. fund to be administered by the Santa
cards, ballots, membership directories The next question is one I have been Clara Valley 99s will he established in
and also labels for special orders, such as frequently asked. — will we need to hire a Marion’s name. Details in this issue.
New Horizons
Editor's Note: On November 28, 1979,
The Ninety-Nines were shocked and sad­
dened to learn that two of our members
perished in the crash of the A ir New Zea­
land DC-10 which went down while on a
sightseeing flight over the antarctic.
Though Marion Barnick and Jean Ferrell
are gone, they will never be forgotten.
Marion Barnick
By Stella Leis
Marion Barnick, with her daughter,
Kaye of New York, was one of 237 persons
who died in the crash of an Air New
Zealand DC-10 near Mt, Erebus in the Marion Barnick enjoyed every phase ot flying, Jean Ferrell's work with United Airlines as a
Antarctic while on a sightseeing flight especially racing and proficiency meets, and DC-10 instructor plus her over-all willingness
November 28, 1979. had flown actively since 1939 to "pitch-in" resulted in a merit award pre­
sented to her by her supervisor, Capt. J.E.
Marion had flown actively since 1939
Carroll a few months before her death.
and held all ratings including an ATP.
She had been an FAA Designee.
Among the many pilots she trained in
her 8,000+ hours was her son, Robert,
who is currently a Pacific Southwest
Airlines pilot. She owned and operated Jean Ferrell recognize, among other things, her
Geebee Aero, an aircraft repair and parts willingness to “pitch-in”. It was this
By Virginia Showers
company at Reid-Hillview Airport, San willingness that prompted her to assume
Jose, which she had founded with her late When word reached The Ninety-Nines the responsibility of APT Chairman for
husband Herman. that Jean Ferrell was one of the her chapter to personally make sure other
A strong supporter of racing and passengers aboard the ill-fated Air New chapter members were current and to
proficiency meets, Marion in her brown Zealand DC-10, it seemed incomprehen­ volunteer to spearhead the 99 computer
and gold Cessna 172 was a familiar sight sible that she could really be gone. Jean fund drive.
in southwest states. She participated in was such a driving force, not only in her Her willingness to help reached into
five AWTARsand in 1979, placed 10th in own Los Angeles Chapter, but in the many other areas as well, including the
a field of 58 in the 5800 mile Great Race aviation industry as well. Civil Air Patrol. She not only held the
from London to Victoria Falls, B.C. with Jean began her aviation career in rank of Lt. Colonel, but was also the
Irene Leverton. Pittsburgh twenty-three years ago with Deputy Commander of the Colorado
She had originally joined The Ninety- Capitol Airlines, which later merged with Wing. She had donated literally thou­
Nines in Portland, Oregon in 1944 and United Airlines. She started as an air-to- sands of hours flying search and rescue
then became a charter member of the ground radio operator and finally missions in the mountains of Colorado
Santa Clara Valley Chapter. She summed worked her way through the ranks to the and Wyoming.
up her philosophy saying, “Either you Flight Training and Standards Depart­ Jean liked to boast that she had flown
love to fly, or you don’t care a thing about ment at United's Denver Training everything from Jennys to Jets. But she
it. There’s no in between.” Center. She was checked out to fly and was a perfectionist. She knew that if she
Flight was her whole life and those that instruct in the DC-10 and held an FAA succeeded in an area penetrated by few
were closest to her know she has flown to Check Airman Status letter enabling her women, it would pave the way for other
new horizons and brighter skies. to give Flight Engineer check rides. She women to follow. Thanks to her, many
The Barnick family is establishing a also trained many foreign airline crews have.
Marion Barnick Memorial Scholarship from such places as India, Pakistan and In a way, it is fitting that Jean found
Fund for the education of women in Korea. Jean was such a valued employee new horizons as she did. She was doing
aviation. It is to be administered by the of United that a few months before her the thing she loved best, flying, and she
Santa Clara Valley Chapter 99s. Checks death, her supervisor. Captain J.E. was aboard the aircraft she loved the
should be made payable to Chairman Pat Carroll, Vice President of the Flight most, a DC-10. It had to have been a
Davis, 695 Remmington Drive, Sunny­ Training and Standards Department, beautiful flight.
vale, CA 94087. presented her with a merit award to
Attention: Chapter
The A.E. Research Scholar
A.E. Scholarship
Chairmen
By Dr. Dora Dougherty Strother
Excitement stirs in the offices of the
Amelia Earhart Fund trustees. The first
Amelia Earhart Memorial Research By Susie Sewell
Scholar has completed the research A.E. Memorial Scholarship Treasurer
phase of her project. Her schedule We appreciate your interest in the Amelia
promises completion of her work in time Earhart Scholarship selection process
for the 1980 International Convention in screening at the chapter level is a most
Vail, Colorado. important part in the selection of qualified
The award, the first Amelia Earhart applicants.
Memorial Scholar grant, was won in Mrs. Niekamp, in discussing items of Applicants should be chosen at the
1978 by Mrs. Dorothy Niekamp of the interest which her research has un­ chapter level based on their potential for use
Indiana Chapter. Mrs. Niekamp, an ac­ covered, found delight in an article of the rating in aviation, plus financial need.
complished and recognized scholar in appearing in the New York Times on Other important factors, such as character,
history and library sciences, holds a December 15, 1929, Page 22, Col. 4. It professional skills, motivation and their past
Master’s degree from Indiana University discussed the organization of a group of achievements, are merely a few. There is no
and is employed by the Indiana Univer­ women pilots which was to be called the pattern, geographically, to the final selec­
sity Library. In addition, she is employed 86ers. She said that she was grateful a few tion. Each section screens the chapter
as a technical consultant and lectures and more women pilots appeared at the applicants and sends only their choices to
serves on technical committees in her meeting. “The 99s has a more lyrical the A.E. Board of Trustees for further
discipline. Her proposal, entitled "Anno­ sound than an organization called the screening.
tated Bibliography of Women in Avia­ 86ers,” she said. She also found out a The question is often asked about a
tion,” was to survey the literature and great deal about all of us. Witness her winner’s flight training, “How much is
produce an annotated bibliography, or uncovering an article in the New York covered?” This varies with each applicant
thumbnail sketch, of articles, books and Times dated March 15, 1926. In it the and the amount of money available for
stories and researches covering women in license of a woman pilot, Viola Gentry, scholarships in any given year. Scholarships
aviation. The trustees, in evaluating her was reported suspended by the authori­ are awarded from investment income
proposal in 1978, felt that this study ties because she had flown under the derived from the principal amount of the
would meet the needs of a starting point Brooklyn and Manhattan bridges. “My Trust Fund, plus one-half of that particular
for any research, historical or technical, goodness,” said Mrs. Niekamp, “Sweet, year’s contributions. As many scholarships
dealing with women in aviation and demure Viola, can you imagine?” as possible are awarded and a percentage is
aerospace. The technical judge of Mrs. The Trustees of the Amelia Earhart applied to the amounts requested, depend­
Niekamp’s proposal, Mr. John Feulner, Memorial Scholarship Fund are ex­ ing on funds available.
of the Science and Technical Division of tremely pleased with the progress that is The amount set for each winner is
the Library of Congress, highly recom­ being made by this scholar. They look determined at the time the final judges
mended that The Ninety-Nines support forward to receiving her final report and return their selections. There is nearly
this work. His letter to the Trustees know all Ninety-Nines take pride in her always the possibility that an applicant will
evaluating her proposal stated, “The liter­ accomplishment. It is hoped that this is need to personally supplement the award
ature search (conducted at the Library of the first in a long line of scholarly works when applying for a rating costing well
Congress) has not disclosed any recent about women pilots, by Ninety-Nines. above $1,000. The Board of Trustees is
compilation of literature on the subject of The Trustees believe Amelia would have scheduled to meet in early Spring and will be
women in aviation and two experts been proud of this use of the scholarship reviewing a number of procedures, as they
consulted feel that such a bibliography fund named in her honor to encourage do annually. Any recommendations you
would fill a glaring gap in the literature of professionalism among women in aviation. wish to offer will be gratefully received. 9s
aviation.”
The data collection phase of this re­
Here is a list of contributions made to the A.E. Fund since the Convention in July:
search has been completed. Mrs. Nie­
kamp reports having reviewed the First Canadian Chapter $ 25.00 Memoriam, Sybil Dunn
following quantity of information: Bcndix Avionics Division 100.00 In honor. Anne McNamara
250 books, 65 biographies/autobio­ San Diego Chapter 270.00 Memoriam. Jessie Ostrander
graphies, Minnesota Chapter 31.00 Memoriam. Florence Scriver
21 juvenile books, 118 general All-Ohio 200.00 Chapter contribution
Australian Section 1.500.00 Section contribution
histories,
Houston Chapter 20.00 Chapter contribution
500 periodical articles and approxi­
Barbara Goet/ and Anthony Sestito 25.00 Memoriam. Wm. D. Orr
mately
Roy Adair 30.00 For instructions give by Barbara Goetz
800 New York Times article citations Greater Detroit 25.00 Chapter contribution. 1978
Her final report will reference each of Greater Detroit 25.00 Chapter contribution. 1979
these. It will contain a brief summary of Greater New York 35.00 Chapter contribution
monographs and motion pictures. List­ Palisades 25.00 Chapter contribution
ings complying with standard library pro­ Williamette Valley Chapter 50.00 Chapter contribution
cedures will be cross referenced with the Kansas 99s 25.00 Chapter contribution
Orange County 150.00 Chap er contribution
name of the woman pilot.
Remember — Your Contribution is fully Tax-Deductible!
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New Chapter
New Ratings
You are Invited
New York-New Jersey Cameron Park
Kathy Lusteg — Long Island — CFI
At 11:00 a.m., April 14th, you are
invited to Tinker Air Force Base, North Central
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, for the Rose Burchett — All-Ohio — CFII By Joyce Wells
dedication of a building in the memory Jennifer Chapan — All-Ohio IFR
of Paula Ruth Loop, Oklahoma Connie Huffman All-Ohio Balloon "Oh, what a beautiful morning, oh what a
Chapter 99 and WASP 43W2. Paula Maxine Holden — All-Ohio — IFR beautiful day”—such was Saturday, Octo­
was killed ferrying a BT 13 over Oregon Maureen Darling Lake Michigan ME, ber 27th,—severe clear!!! Flying from the
in 1944. This is the first military IFR. Bay area to Cameron Park was uneventful
building ever dedicated to one of our (both times)*, but awesome, as the Sacra­
South Central
own. If you are coming by private mento Valley and the Sierras were spread
plane, it may be possible that you can Kay Anderson — Kansas CA before us in all the beauty and splendor of
fly directly into Tinker. Sondra Ridgeway — Topeka - CFII fall.
Lonnie Wilhelm Topeka IFR. BGI
Make plans to now see your 99 and Nestled in the Sierra foothills east of
WASP friends in OKC, April 14, 1980. Sacramento, Cameron Park is a community
Southeast
Visit the 99 Headquarters if your time for pilots. Streets are taxiways, garages are
allows. Ksena Stone Carolinas ME hangars. The Country Club was the
For further information and reserva­ Angela Wheat — Carolinas CFI. ME gathering place for more than 40 women and
tions, contact by March 15th, 2Lt. men who enjoyed lunch while witnessing the
Southwest
Narda L. Jimenez, 552 AWAC Wing- beginning of a 99 chapter. Some came by air,
ADYD, Tinker Air Force Base, Okla­ Kathleen Snaper — CFII, ME — Las Vegas others by surface transportation—all to
homa City, OK 73145. [phone]. Valley share their joy in being associated with
Watch The 99 NEWS for further Claire Ellis — Phoenix — CFI aviation and the 99s. There were 10 members
details. Pam Marly — Phoenix — ME from sponsoring Bay Cities Chapter, 9 from
Pamela Mclnnes-Stine — San Fernando
Sacramento Valley Chapter, and numerous
Valley — IFR
friends and 49!/2ers. A special guest was Bob
Shirley Thom San Fernando Valley IFR
If you are interested in learning how Williams, instructor of several of the new
Lila Fielden Utah ME. ATP
an aircraft accident is investigated, you chapter members.
are invited to attend The Wally Funk Wray Robertson, Chairman of the new
Safety Slide Presentation. Tuesday chapter and former Bay Cities member,
evening at 7:30 p.m., January 8, 1980, at graciously presided over the festivities.
the FAA Auditorium, Oklahoma City. Thelma Cull, Vice Governor of the South­
Wally is an NTSB Air Safety Investi­ west Section and Sacramento Valley
gator and has put together a fascinating member was the installing officer, and the
presentation which contains many new Cameron Park Chapter members were
unique safety tips. individually pinned with their 99 pins by Bay
If you are interested in a similar Cities members. Denage Marquis, Vice
presentation for your group, contact Chairman of Bay Cities presented the new
Wally at her office, [phone]. chapter with a gavel and block. Chairman,
Marci Roberts of Sacramento Chapter gave
a beautiful scrap book. Southwest Section
patches were given to each new 99 by Ruth
Rueckert of Bay Cities.
New chapter members are: Wray Robert­
son, Chairman: Mary Bovee, Vice Chair­
man; Sandra Harper, Treasurer; Beverly
Owens, Secretary; Jan Carlsen, Reporter;
Betty Jane Roper, Program; Robin Bovee,
Nadine Shute, Joan Wright Betty Burbank,
For the pilot who appreciates fine art, we and Dorothy Lee Odegard.
have this beautifully detailed two-winger Bay Cities members present were: Ruth
suspended in flight and mounted on a slab Rueckert, Marge Fauth, Taya Dunn. Joyce
of onyx. Each is handmade and lavished Wells (in the Wells’ C-210 with Hal and
with care of a true artisan by DeMott of
Steve), Denage Marquis, Christine Koplos-
California. Truly this is a collector s piece
Stroh, Marge Carmine (in the Carmine’s T-
of fine art. Limited quantity available.
Approx. 10 inches high with a wing span of Arrow with Duane), Miriam Brugh. Helen
12 inches. Kelton, Ruth Jacquotl and our special
friend, Carol Baker. Apologies to those I
$70.00 plus $5.00 shipping, no C.O.D.’s,
Illinois residents 5'/<% tax. Other aviation may have left out.
gifts available, send for a free brochure. *The custodian of the new member pins
and handbooks left them in the car at Gnoss
Betty Jane Schermerhorn, Governor of the East THE ANTIQUARY
Field and had time to retrieve them before
Canada Section, presented The 99s' Canadian P.O. Box 364
lunch was over, but no time to visit with the
Award in Aviation to W E. Slack, Chairman of the Hampshire, IL 60140
E.A.A.C. Technical Committee during the new members. That’s how you get to be the
C O P.A. banquet at Grey Rocks Inn. St. Jovite. first plane to arrive and also the last to
Quebec, September 22. 1979 arrive. a9
On the Cover
A 99 Airport—No. 1 in Convenience
By Marilyn Copeland
Who knows what general aviation pilots
COPELAND AIRPORT
want when they use an airport? You guessed
it, general aviation pilots! In October, 1976,
John and Marilyn Copeland were driving
near one of the oldest landing strips in
Wichita, Kansas, Rawdon Airfield, and to
their dismay, it appeared to be nearly closed.
They immediately began research, and
found that the airport was for sale, due to the
passing of an early aeronautical engineer,
Herbert Rawdon, Sr.
John is a children's dentist and a pilot for
over thirty years. Marilyn has been a Kansas
99 since 1962 and was Headquarters
Chairman during the time of the building
project. Both were interested in the general
aviation airport and agreed that they would
like to keep this convenient, private airport
open to the public. Thus, they bought the
airport and Copeland Airport was born.
During the first year, an all new 2550 foot
asphalt runway was constructed. Kansas 99s
airmarked the new runway with the numbers
17 and 35. From the beginning of the airport definitely see a new image was underway at Copeland Airport hosts many interna­
project, an extension of the runway was the airport. tional visitors during the year. South
planned, first to 3500 feet and eventually to Many “open to the general public” American pilots base their aircraft at
5,000 feet. This expansion has been delayed aviation activities have been held the past Copeland for a few days after they have
by the untimely land purchase by a local three years. One of the first big ones was the received delivery from the local factories.
aircraft company of the property which is “Spirit of St. Louis" commemorative tour. Occasionally, a German, Canadian or South
necessary for expansion. This activity attracted over 5,000 people African plane will spend some time on the
Installation of runway lights a few months along with lots of TV and newspaper field.
later was a project to assist in pilot safety and coverage. A Cessna Pilot Center is also quite active
convenience. They are left on all night to Through the joint efforts of the Kansas on the airport. The flight school, rentals and
accommodate local and transient pilots. A 99s, the AOPA Safety Foundation and the charter are run by a separate company which
sign at the entrance to the airport states, FAA, a very successful pilots’safety seminar leases space. Likewise, another aircraft
“Welcome to the airport that is getting better was presented to 500 area pilots during the maintenance company leases space for
everyday.” second year of activities at the airport. maintenance and avionics.
First year improvements included burying A free community airshow was held in A key person in the operation of the
the high voltage power lines at the south end early 1979 which included an aerobatic airport has been the Copeland's son, David,
of the runway. This was a major expense for show, an EAA Fly-in, new aircraft on who serves as assistant manager and chief
the airport owners, but necessary for the display, parachute demonstrations, and hot lineman. He also enjoys every flying
safety of the flying public. air balloons. The two day open house opportunity he gets. Their daughter, Jo
A new FAA approved instrument landing attracted crowds of aviation lovers to the Elaine and her husband. Marc, are also fine
approach was another necessary safety airport. backup support for the operation.
project. Since the new runway had slightly Other activities during the past three years During 1979, a new 13,000 square foot
different elevations, up-to-date engineering have included Fly-ins by the Flying general aviation storage hangar was
elevations were necessary to get the IFR Physicians, Flying Dentists, 99s, EAA, completed. With a large door opening of 18’
approach. As airport manager, Marilyn Bonanza and Staggerwing Societies, Wich­ x 80’, all aircraft that land on the airport are
Copeland regularly attends air traffic ita State University Aerospace Workshop, easily hangared. Space for offices of
control meetings at McConnell Air Force Fairview Fly-Lady Derby, Muscular Dys­ aviation-oriented companies is also avail­
Base. These meetings bring together the trophy Flights and other promotional able in this new hangar.
airport managers, factory representatives, activities for local institutions and clubs. Truly, the weak of heart, or persons too
the FAA, and the military to discuss local The latest big event was the National Fly-in fragile for hard work, long hours and
traffic problems. of the Cessna Skylane and Skyhawk extreme temperatures should not undertake
An advance design of unique construction Associations. Over 75 aircraft headquar­ such a project. However, after three years of
might be the description for the O’Dome tered at the airport and were in close owning an airport, the Copelands are
structure which is the new administration proximity to a hub of the best motels, happier and much wiser than the day they
building on the airport. From the time this restaurants, and shopping in the Wichita made the decision to keep the airport open
building was placed into service, pilots could area. to the public. 9»
Region X
NIFA SAFECON
Louise McPhetridge Thaden
By Charleen Mehaffie
On October 27, 1979, the host team
By Page Shamburger at Bowling Green State University,
Bowling Green, Ohio, was joined by
the teams from Ohio State Univer­
A few years ago, Louise spoke to the
sity, to compete in the Region X
assembled crowd at the Staggerwing
SAFECON. We arose to a good VFR
Museum in Tullahoma, TN. Among the
day, accompanied by a rather stiff
words she said were some we remember
chilly breeze which is not a stranger
quite vividly: “I’m glad I’ve lived long
in the “flat lands” surrounding Lake
enough to smell the roses.”
Erie. All ground and flying events
You see, justifiably, the Staggerwing
were completed and the All-Ohio 99s
Foundation had opened a library and
helped judge power off and spot land­
named it The Louise Thaden Library.
ings, the message drop, and rode as check
The Library honored Louise and well it
pilots in the navigation event. Western
should. The lady, you see, held every
Michigan and Kent State will go on to
possible aviation record in the late 20’s
compete in the Nationals in Grand
and early 30’s. The first Bendix Trans­
Forks, North Dakota, in May. This
continental Air Race women were
was a very enjoyable and well run
permitted to fly in—she won, with
meet thanks to the host team at BGSU.
Blanche Noyes as co-pilot, and she won
in a Staggerwing Beechcraft. That was in a®
August of 1936 and with that win, she
held the record for East-West transcon­
tinental speed; the next August, again
flying a Beech Staggerwing, she took the
100 km. Speed Record.
To be a bit more personal for Ninety-
Nines, the lady won the First Women's
Air Derby in August of 1929, in a Travel
Air, the fore-runner of the Staggerwings.
And that Air Derby was the fore-runner
of the organization known as The
Ninety-Nines. ‘Member? Under that
grandstand, the female pilots met and
decided some club should be organized We’re proud of her. We’re proud she
for women pilots? was our friend. We'll miss her deeply. We
Louise Thaden was our organization’s can only be grateful that indeed she did
first secretary. We all know who does have time “to smell the roses.”
most of the work for a fledgling Louise Thaden died in High Point, NC
organization. The secretary, right? Later, November 9, 1979, of a heart attack. Her
she was the vice-president. memorial service was on November 12, Marcia Greenham and Charleen Mehaffie wait
Listen to some of her records, though. her 74th birthday. Louise requested that for a message to drop from the skies and,
She was awarded the Harmon Trophy by her son, Bill, and her daughter, Pat, state hopefully, land on the target.
the Federation Aeronautique Interna­ “no flowers” but memorials to the charity
tionale in 1936. Citations are too of your choice or to the Staggerwing
numerous to list but include those from Museum Chapel in Tullahoma. TN. The
the State of North Carolina, the 0X5 Carolinas Chapter and the Southeast
Club of America, the Society of Experi­ Section of The Ninety-Nines are sending
mental Test Pilots, and the meritorious memorials to the International Womens
Service Award with Cluster from the Air and Space Museum in Dayton (%
CAP. Doris Scott). Recently, Louise has given
She soloed in 1927 and her name first the Museum many photos and archives
went in the record books for altitude in material.
December of 1928. In 1929, she captured
the record for solo duration, for speed, Pat’s address:
for winning the Air Derby—and she Mrs. Frederick W. Frost
helped start The Ninety-Nines. Her life Rt. 1, Box 346G
was like that. What she did she not only Leesburg, VA 22075
did well—she did the best. People she
met, and she always met them kindly, Bill’s address:
were impressed with all she had done. Mr. William Thaden
Her friends, like many of us in the 11 Juniper Drive
Taking a break from NIFA chores are Kay
Carolinas Chapter, were impressed with North Hampton, NH 03862
Johnson, Charleen Mehaffie. lone Shelton and
the simple fact—she was one great lady.
Dorothy Amon.