Chapter 512 Activities

Van's RV-9A Doug Delapp & George Buttles

Chapter 512 is an active chapter in general aviation and the local community. There are many activities for members to become involved in. During the warm, summer months fly-outs are scheduled to locations suggested by our members, and attended by anyone who is interested in flying. These are usually a day trip to some scenic location for breakfast or lunch, or overnight for a particular event. One of our most interesting and enjoyable fly-outs was to Eagles Nest, home of Reno Air Racer Dreadnought. Each fall we also have an annual Ladies Fly-Out, which is eagerly anticipated by the women of the chapter.

Our annual Pancake Breakfast (photos) held in the spring, is a chance for the local community to learn more about general aviation and EAA Chapter 512. Chapter volunteers join together to flip some flapjacks, pour juice and coffee as well as clean up after the event. Antique, classic, and homebuilt aircraft are on display for all participants to view. Pilots are on-hand to answer questions. This event is our primary fundraiser with proceeds supporting our Young Eagle's program.

Chapter 512 hosts two Young Eagle Rallies each year -- one held in the spring and one in the fall. This activity provides youngsters between the ages of 8 and 17 a chance to fly with one of several Chapter pilots in their airplane. A complimentary lunch is provided for the Young Eagle and pilot afterward, as well as a chance to learn more about airplanes and the benefits of flying.

Another activity that Chapter 512 members have been enjoying for over 10 years now is our annual Toy Making Day (Photos) held in early November. On this day, Chapter 512's hangar is converted into Santa's workshop. Here our members come together for a full day of cutting, drilling, sanding, and dying toy wooden airplanes. These wooden airplanes are then assembled with crayons and our own custom coloring book (created by Bob O'Hara). When the day is done, over 200 coloring kits have been assembled for the Marine Corps' Toys for Tots program. To round out the day and celebrate the beautiful fall weather, our members provide a picnic lunch. The toy gifts provide the needy children in El Dorado County with a brighter Christmas, and the event provides a fun get together for our Chapter members.

Our first annual Monte Carlo Night was held in the spring of 2000, and is the primary fundraiser for our new Scholarship Fund. This scholarship helps an El Dorado County resident to realize their dream of an aviation-oriented career. For the price of a ticket participant receive chips, delicious hors d'oeuvres and beer or wine, and it's a tax-deductible donation.

Steve and Theresa Barnard, a Chapter 512 guest, John McPherson, Bill George, and Gail Herron partake of the wonderful desserts at one of our summer potluck picnic meetings held during June, July, and August.

These are some of the many activities that Chapter 512 members participate in. Our committees are varied and there is a place for everyone to become an active member of EAA. Check out our Calendar of Events for upcoming activities, or our Chapter Leadership to contact someone to participate in one of our activities.