March 23rd Meeting, Eagles Nest-Fairview Airpark (SC23), 1pm-3pm


Eagles Nest-Fairview Airpark - SC23

   The TTF March 2025 meeting took place on March 23, hosted by Rome Lindler at his Eagles Nest-Fairview Flight Park. Attendees were welcomed, with special thanks given to Rome, to those who flew in and to Debbie Philbin for organizing food and drinks. We had plenty of subs, chips, cookies and other deserts. Thanks to everyone that brought something. Limited chapter caps were available for purchase, with discounts for new members. Copies of the 2025 South Carolina Aeronautical Chart and Airport Directory were provided by the SC Aeronautics Commission. Treasurer Jim Mathews presented the financial report, including updates on donations, the current balance, and the scholarship fund. Secretary Debbie Philbin confirmed that the meeting minutes were posted on the website, and they were approved by motion. The Ray Aviation Scholarship update highlighted that Grace Lastinger became a new pilot, while Ana Filich is progressing in her flight training, having completed a Discovery Flight, medical exam, and student pilot certificate.

The safety discussion covered FAA guidelines on handling and storing pyrotechnic signaling devices in aircraft, as well as the regulatory requirements for using iPads as Electronic Flight Bags (EFBs) in different aircraft. Upcoming fly-in events were announced, including those at Triple Tree Airport (SC00) in Woodruff, SC, and Uncle John’s Fly-In on March 29, where camping is available. The next meeting is scheduled for April 27 at Ron Angerman’s hangar, with lunch plans still being discussed. The meeting concluded with acknowledgments to the host, a reminder to clean up, and a motion to adjourn.

   Meeting Photos     Meeting Presentation 

February 16th Meeting, Gilbert International Airpark (SC45), 1pm-3pm


Grace Lastinger, our 2024 Ray Scholarship recipient, passed her check ride February 21st!
Congratulations Grace!

   Our second meeting of the year took place on February 16, 2025, in Ron Angerman's hangar at Gilbert International Airpark (SC45). It was well attended by both members and guests. We also welcomed a new member, Gerhard Schubert, to our chapter. Currently, our roster includes 152 members, with 97 having paid their dues. Members began arriving around noon, and lunch was served at 1:00. The menu featured a variety of chili recipes, along with plenty of sides and desserts.

  At 2:00, President Eddie Brennan called the meeting to order. He expressed gratitude to Ron for hosting us in his fantastic hangar, thanked the food providers for the excellent meal, and acknowledged those who contributed to reimburse meal expenses. Afterward, the minutes from January were approved, and Treasurer Jim Matthews provided a financial update. Eddie also announced that the 2025 South Carolina Aeronautical Chart, Airport Directory, and Pilot Guide from the SC Aeronautics Commission was now available. He plans to bring copies to the March meeting.

  Eddie reminded everyone about our next gathering on March 16, a fly/drive event at Eagles Nest Airpark (SC23). Lunch will be provided by Joey’s Subs, and Debbie Philbin collected $12 per member to cover costs.

  A discussion followed regarding EAA Young Eagles flights and the requirements for participation. At this time, there are no scheduled Tree Top Flyer Rallies. We also considered rescheduling the April meeting since the original date falls on Easter—updates on this will be shared soon.

  Grace Lastinger, our 2024 Ray Aviation Scholarship recipient is readying for her check ride. UPDATE: As of February 21st, Grace has passed her check ride. Congratulations Grace!

  Jeanette Hibpshman from the FAA Fast Team gave an insightful presentation on General Aviation Survival, and Don Schmotzer presented the Safety Tip of the Month, focusing on crosswind landings.

   Meeting Photos     Meeting Presentation     FAA Safety Presentation 

January 19th Meeting, Gilbert International Airpark (SC45), 1pm-3pm


Last year’s officers and select members received Chapter Service Certificates and pins

     Our first meeting of 2025 was held on Sunday, January 19th in Ron Angerman's hangar at Gilbert International Airpark (SC45). We had another delicious meal provided by members with a theme of "Chili foods" which included many varieties, various casseroles, vegetables, many delicious desserts. tea, lemonade, and soft drinks.

     Our new President, Eddie Brennan opened the meeting at 2:00 PM with 60+ members and guests present. Notable guests included Gerhard Schubert (Piper Cherokee pilot) and Charles Anderson (Beechcraft Bonanza pilot), both retired aviators from Aiken. Eddie introduced the new chapter officers:  President, Eddie Brennan; Vice-President, Stan Lawrimore; Scretary, Debbie Philbin; and Treasurer, Jim Matthews. A motion to honor Randy Berry as President Emeritus and MVP President was unanimously approved.

     In other news, Last year’s officers and select members received Chapter Service Certificates and pins, followed by a group photo shown above.

     And lastly, Safety Coordinator Don Schmotzer presented tips for entering flight patterns at uncontrolled airports, emphasizing radio volume adjustments, go-around decisions, and visual traffic awareness. Members engaged with questions and comments afterward.

     Click on the photo above for more photos and videos taken by Jim Matthews.