BOWSTRING CALL TO ACTION FILLS THE ROOM

RAF Minnesota Liaison Kurt Pennuto wants to thank everyone who took time to respond to a Call To Action regarding Bowstring Airport. The impressive turnout on  May 2  included 43 pilots — many of whom are RAF members — a resort owner, and the videographer who produced the Bowstring Fly in video. Twelve airplanes flew in. The County also received 28 emails, letters and phone calls. All wanted Bowstring to retain its open status. “I was very encouraged that on a Wednesday morning, 45 people showed up to support something they love, be passionate about it and stand up and vocalize the benefits of keeping a remote airport open,” he said. 

Wisconsin Liaison Jeff Russell flew in to attend and said, “It’s a beautiful airport in a great location in the heart of Minnesota’s north woods and lakes area. Kurt did a great job identifying this strip as one with high recreational value and one that the RAF should be involved with.”

The meeting included Itasca county commissioners, airport commissioners and MN-DOT. County Commissioner Davin Tinquist represents the district, and led the meeting by saying “We want to keep this airport open.” They are supportive of the money it generates, with people flying in to recreate. But the county’s biggest issue appeared to be their perception that ownership was exposing them to liability. Evidently, the Commissioners are not aware that in 2012, Minnesota added aviation as a recreational activity to its Recreational Use Statute, providing protection to the land owner/manager. “It’s the responsibility of the pilot to make a proper decision,” Kurt observed. “That’s where I see the education piece for the county.” 

Complicating matters is that MN-DOT is responsible for inspecting the airport, and had noted 17 safety violations — trees that needed to be removed. It appeared the airport commission wasn’t consistent about reporting back how they resolved the issue. 

Kurt is committed to ongoing progress, and welcomed Michigan Liaison Brad Frederick’s offer to present his success working with the state of Michigan.

Both Kurt and Jeff reported that the county commissioners were quite surprised by the turnout. “They specifically noted the RAF’s attendance and appreciated us being there,” Jeff said. 

The meeting served to re-establish communications between the county and the airport commission along with MN-DOT, who informed them of funding that is available for airport safety projects.

“There is still more work to do,” Kurt said, “but for now Bowstring is on good footing.”

Submitted on May 7, 2018

Posted in News

    Recent Posts

2026 RAF PHOTO CONTEST CONCLUDES

November 10, 2026
The 2026 RAF Photo Contest has concluded. Thanks to our supporters, we had a great turnout of submissions! Our VPs of Appreciation reviewed and judged them anonymously, selecting 20 winning photos. VP of Appreciation Cindy Cross, who facilitates photo contest submissions, said, “I love the RAF Photo Contest. After logging about 200 entries I feel like I went barnstorming around our country in 31 days. Thanks to everyone who shared their sense of adventure and the passion of flying into recreational airstrips. I can’t wait to go flying again!" Each winner will receive a package of high-quality greeting cards with their photo on the front and photo credit on the back. All photos – even those of the non-winners – are archived for possible future use in RAF publicity, including photo credit. Thank you to everyone who participated! It’s not too early to start thinking about photos for next year’s contest!

INTERESTED IN A SATISFYING ROLE WITH THE RAF?

November 10, 2026
The RAF is seeking State Liaisons across the U.S.! Join our team of volunteers who find camaraderie, fulfillment, and pleasure in preserving special places.

CONSIDERING YEAR-END CHARITABLE GIVING?

November 4, 2026
At this time of year we are reminded of those who have given so much, so that we and future generations may share the experiences that matter to people like us—a flat place to pitch your tent, a pilot shelter to get out of the weather, or a fire ring to share a beverage and a story with friends. We have all been the benefactor of someone else's generosity which has enriched our lives in the backcountry; that vault toilet didn't place itself, and neither did the firewood. It's a good reminder that we all have opportunities to pay it forward. Like many people, you may be considering year-end charitable contributions. From a one time or recurring gift, to IRA/401k Qualified Charitable Distributions and donations of publicly traded stock, there are several planned giving options to help your gift also benefit you financially. You may not be aware of a new opportunity this year: Those who use the standard deduction (like most taxpayers) can deduct up to $1,000 ($2,000 for couples) for their direct donation to the RAF, without itemizing. This gives everyone a charitable giving tax-advantage, not just high-income donors who itemize.

CODY KOCH

November 3, 2026
Cody Koch grew up in Truckee, California, where he developed a love for aviation and the outdoors at a young age. Growing up around airplanes and flying with his dad sparked his interest in becoming a pilot. He went on to earn his Private Pilot Certificate while still in high school and is now studying aviation at Gallatin College through Montana State University, working toward additional ratings with hopes of pursuing a career in aviation. Outside of flying, Cody enjoys camping, off-roading, and just about anything that gets him outdoors. Music is also a big part of his life, whether he’s playing it himself or catching a live show. He has always enjoyed working with his hands and has a particular passion for working on the cars passed down to him by his grandfather. One of Cody’s longtime dreams is to own a Super Cub and explore the backcountry by air. He hopes to one day visit some of the remote airstrips that the RAF works to protect and is glad to be part of an organization that helps keep these places accessible to pilots. Submitted on November 3, 2026

HELP THE RAF EARN DELTA REWARDS—AT NO COST TO YOU!

November 2, 2026
Did you know the RAF can earn Delta rewards when you fly, without affecting your personal SkyMiles or other rewards? Simply add the RAF to your Delta SkyMiles account as your business loyalty program. The RAF will earn points on eligible flights, which we can use for travel to RAF events and other benefits. You keep all your personal SkyMiles! Step 1: Add the RAF to Your SkyMiles Account You only need to do this once. We recommend using Delta.com in your web browser, rather than the Fly Delta app. Log in to your SkyMiles account at Delta.com . Under your Name in the top right corner, select Profile . Under My Profile , select Other Loyalty Programs . Find Business Loyalty Programs , click +Add under Business Travel Program , and select Delta SkyMiles for Business . Enter the RAF's loyalty number, US0056924 , and click Save . Step 2: Select "Business" Before Booking Each time you log in to Delta.com, select "Business" when prompted. This allows the RAF's loyalty number to automatically populate on the Passenger Info page when booking your flight.