And a great time was had by all! Even the grill cook who was running ragged.... The final head count was 20 people, including us locals! Two based planes plus five more newly parked on the ramp.
The BAC SE Banner was on display, right next to the inflatable airplane containing Santa Claus, with the spinning prop! I am leaving most of the interior decorations up until after New Year's Day.
Shrimp cocktail, various chips and dips, various nuts, two kinds of tater salad, various kinds of pickles and relishes, grilled burgers, grilled kielbasa sausage, grilled smoked sausage, buns, condiments, lots of various sweets for dessert (including a giant Christmas chocolate-chip cookie), and various drinks in the well-stocked fridge. Many folks went home with at least one big chocolate Santa in its box. Even candy canes on the tree for the kids of all ages.
Started off cool outside, but we had tons of heat in the hangar seating area. Thanks in part to Doug Muse, who donated a brand-new pedestal-mounted electric radiant heater. It looks like the big propane patio heaters, but is electric and on a smaller scale. Its design allows it to be placed in the center of the seating area, where all enjoyed it. We had the propane radiant heaters going on the perimeter of the seating, so everyone stayed warm both front and back. I had all the metal chairs covered with fabric, to help keep out the chill.
It became warm enough in the bright sun for a lot of outside maintenance activities. Mark Jones replaced his cowling Camlocs; Don Poitras did an oil and filter change; Doug Muse did some minor repairs; Norton and Kim repaired their fuel filler caps; Randy Martin repaired some door handles; and more. Best fly-in day we've had in a long time, all the way around. Everyone received a door prize, an item of their choice, from under the Christmas tree (tie downs, LED mini-lights, LED rechargeable work lites, filler cap kits).
Attendees listed below, with PT points where warranted:
Mike and Paula Rellihan (plus Skye, of course)
Monty and Jeannie Spencer
Bud Boyter, with Dave and Melissa
Jim White
Jim Spencer, with Thomas and John Calvin
Doug Muse (as hisself) PTP = 192
Don Poitras PTP = 154
Randy Martin (drove in, 220+ statute miles one way)
Mark Jones, with his Mother PTP = 287
Fred Culleton, with PTP = 105
Terry Sher
Norton Geddie, with PTP = 166
Kim Highfill
I hope I have not overlooked anyone. I have heard rumors that others will be posting photos. I sure hope so, as I was far too busy to take any. My sincere thanks to all of those who were able to make it here!