Lisa Ellington, Author at Recreational Aviation Foundation

Chuck Jarecki

To simply call Chuck Jarecki of Polson, Montana, an “RAF Supporter” falls way short of the contributions this pilot and retired rancher has made to the RAF and to general aviation. He was one of those six fellows around the campfire who recognized the need to protect aviation access to the backcountry, and asked, “If…

STEVE RUETER

Day job: Retired farmer and yardmaster from the Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railroad Favorite airstrip: Besides his own (Rueter Airfield) Seeley Lake, Montana Next Adventure: The Northeast to see the fall colors (New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, etc.) Submitted on June 10, 2023.

RAF INVITES SUPPORTERS’ VIDEO SUBMISSIONS

Do you have a video that captures the spirit of the RAF mission? With airplanes, great scenery, and people enjoying the backcountry experience? Would you like to see it on RAF’s Facebook, Instagram or YouTube social media platforms? Consider submitting it to us! Eligibility: Open to any RAF supporter, amateurs and professionals alike, including those…

LUKE LACHENDRO

Favorite Airstrip: C37 Brodhead WINext Adventure: Exploring the strips of Northern WI and the Upper Peninsula this summer

BILL ABLES

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…

Ron Normandeau

It’s hard to believe that Ron Normandeau’s aircraft started out as a box of airplane parts. Ron, of Polson, Montana built a beautiful 1947 Aeronca Chief and now enjoys flying his own plane. He began flying in 1962 between junior and senior high school years, and earned his license. Ron’s wife Kathi earned her private…

GA NEWS REPORTS RAF GRANT FOR AVEY FIELD IMPROVEMENTS

General Aviation News reports on the RAF grant to improve amenities at Avey Field (69S). Read the story HERE. Submitted on May 3, 2023.

CHRISTOPHER JOLLY

Christopher Jolly was introduced to aviation the day following his arrival into this world. His father was participating in a remote control sailplane competition and brought him to the flying field that day. He eventually grew up and also competed in remote control sailplane competitions, ultimately qualifying to represent the U.S. junior team and placing…

NEW MEXICO VOLUNTEERS IMPROVE NEWLY-OPENED SACATON

Once the USFS District Ranger deemed Sacaton “re-opened” last January after it had lain dormant and overgrown for decades, RAF New Mexico Ron Keller lost no time organizing help to improve it and make it safer and more appealing for recreation. On the weekend of April 13-16 Keller gathered three volunteers to work on the…

AVEY FIELD IMPROVEMENTS PRESERVE SAFETY

RAF Washington Liaison Dave Whitelaw has been awarded an RAF grant to preserve amenities and increase safety at Avey Field, (69S) near Laurier, WA. The field is owned by Bob Davis of Orient, WA, and is adjacent to a Washington-British Columbia Port-Of-Entry. Customs agents are nearby making this strip convenient for travelers to and from Canada. …