Missouri Pilots Association Holds State Convention

By Carmelo Turdo

The Missouri Pilots Association held its annual state convention at the Boonville Isle of Capri Hotel May 30-June 1.  The weekend featured a variety of activities besides the business meeting on Saturday, including live entertainment at the Cooper's Oak Winery on Friday and breakfast at the nearby Jesse Viertel Memorial Airport provided by Booneville Boy Scout Troop 67.  Of course, there was time for the main purpose of the convention - provide FAAST Team safety training and recognize member award winners.  Those objectives were successfully accomplished, with the added bonus of an informative talk by aviation historian Fred Schieszer about his personal tour of the Wright Cycle Shop No. 4 as it stands now in Dearborn, MI.  His presentation on the manufacture of the Wright Brothers' engine, made by Charlie Taylor, was a lesson in applied engineering. 

Special thanks to event organizer Bob Crandell and the Missouri Pilots Association staff and chapter leaders for producing a great convention.  Here are some scenes from the Saturday sessions.


Color Guard provided by Booneville Correctional Center staff

Event Organizer Bob Crandell and AOPA's Yasmina Platt

Yasmina Platt's presentation addressed legislative issues

Clyde Ehrhardt gave an update on aviation insurance coverage

Greater St. Louis Air & Space Museum President Mark

Nankivil's presentation on Post World War II Aviation in

Missouri engaged the audience in "What's that airplane?" 

An historical review of Missouri aviation

Joe Pestka of Jviation gave an update on aviation infrastructure

FAA's Alan Gorthy stresses runway safety in flight operations

Fred Harms builds a foundation of air safety (see below)

Springfield Chapter wins unique attendance trophy

Walter Keith (left) accepts the Wright Brothers Master Pilot Award 

Professor Fred Schieszer discusses Charlie Taylor's engine