Posts by ewhite

On August 26, a celebration was held at Two Hearted (6Y5) in Michigan to acknowledge the airfield’s reopening, and to thank everyone involved for their help. Volunteers’ efforts were appreciated and Richard and Kathy Robinson of Rainbow Lodge were acknowledged for their kind hospitality. “If not for them, this could not have happened. We cannot…

Texas native John Cyrier became enamored with aviation at age 11, when his older brother flew him to a local airshow in a J3 Cub. He received his private pilot license shortly after graduating from Texas A&M University where he was in the Air Force ROTC and the Fightin’ Texas Aggie Band. John currently owns…

Often, we are asked how this organization began, and how has it succeeded, so we created a brief summary of the RAF’s origin, its growth and many accomplishments.  We think you’ll enjoy viewing this snapshot, since so many of you have had an important role in all the RAF has accomplished, and you continue to…

Ryan Field now has four hard-sided camping cabins, thanks to the efforts of volunteers who wrapped up the project during the June 9-11 work party. RAF supporters flying in may reserve a cabin by emailing ryancabins@theraf.org. Twenty volunteers completed many other tasks to clean and prepare all the facilities for the flying season, including bear boxes, gutters,…

Each year, RAF volunteers help out at Bob and Judy Gillette’s beautiful Lakewood Lodge, Wisconsin, in appreciation for Gillettes welcoming the public to use their airfield, 14WS. RAF Director Jeff Russell reports that this year’s weather for the May 19-21 weekend work party was perfect, and over a dozen volunteers tackled all the projects Judy had listed. “We must…

It was natural for Bill Ables of Enterprise, Oregon, to take up backcountry flying and advocacy. He makes a stunning image when he approaches a forest strip in his beautiful 1952 red Cessna 170B.  Bill has served as RAF Ambassador, but has made the commitment to step up as Liaison, joining RAF Oregon Liaison Richard Mayes. Bill…

RAF supporters with the popular O-470 model engine will be thrilled to learn that Hartzell Propeller has expanded the applicability of its popular three-blade aluminum Voyager props. The Voyager is now STC approved for Cessna aircraft powered by Continental 470-A (s/n 41000 and higher) -J, -R, and -S engines. This includes models C – J with standard…

RAF Georgia Ambassador and Bonanza pilot Eric Davis and his father Gary evaded poor flying weather and made the four-hour drive and boat ride into Creighton Island in October to make a variety of improvements to the unique fly-in island setting. They have proven to be a multi-skilled “dynamic duo” when it comes to upkeep…

Our many RAF supporters have such vast and varied experience, that we’re capturing some of their words of wisdom to share with you.  Beginning in January 2023, the RAF website will feature a new page called “Worth the Read”. Each month, an editorial from a supporter’s point of view will be added. You’ll be able to find them…

An RAF grant funded improvements in conjunction with a major repaving project at New Cuyama airstrip in California, L88, and as planned, on October 13 folks gathered for a celebration. The ribbon was cut by key volunteers Steve and Nancy Sappington from the Blue Sky Center, who helped drive the project. Alex Guerrero, the craftsman of Warrior…