June 20, 1997
Sun 'n Fun EAA Fly-in, Inc.
P.O. Box 6750
Lakeland, Florida 33807
Ladies and Gentlemen,
For 10 years now, our local chapter has made participation in the annual Sun 'n Fun Lakeland
fly-in part of our regular activities. Years past saw twenty to twenty-five aircraft, and upwards of
100 people, or more from our island airport community, attending the festivities during the week
of Sun 'n Fun. The trip for many of our members was made a family affair.
In recent years we have started to see local interest in attending the Lakeland convention drop off
considerably. This year some of our members have expressed aggravation, disappointment, and
even some genuine anger, with the expense of a two or three day camping trip to the Sun 'n Fun
fly-in.
The expenses for many of our chapter members and their families are starting to become cost
prohibitive. Specifically, our chapter members are complaining about the "no refund" policy on
camping fees, and the continuing full gate charges for family members. There has been sufficient
discord expressed by our members that an official chapter vote has been taken to explore local or
regional alternatives to Sun 'n Fun. I have heard complaints from members of other area EAA
chapters on these same issues. It appears to be a consensus, that the Sun 'n Fun committee
members have forgotten their roots and, with corporate success, no longer need the rank-in-file
support of EAA members like us.
Our chapter members have requested that I contact the Sun 'n Fun Committee and express our
unified concerns. Please consider a roll back of fees and a change in policy for 1998.
Thank you,
Richard C. Russell
Chapter President
July 2, 1997
Mr. Richard C. Russell
EAA Chapter 943
1000 Airport Road
Fernandina Beach, FL 32034
Dear Mr. Russell:
First, let me thank you for taking the time to document the concerns of your chapter members. Please let them know that I appreciate their input.
Each year a Fly-In Planning Committee of volunteers are selected that includes people who have indicated that they have a desire to serve and can and are willing to commit to attending two or three planning sessions. If you, or someone who represents your chapter, would wish to participate in this manner, I will see that it is arranged. In any event, I will present your concerns.
If you chapter would like to take an active role in the convention, there are opportunities for you to do so. Volunteer workers who commit to work during the convention are provided credentials and camping at no cost. Many chapters have chosen to do this.
We felt that our fees were fair, considering other events of this size. Please see the attached Oshkosh admission policy, remembering that you pay to park each day.
We are also looking at a means to accommodate the short term guest. The four day minimum diminished beginning on Wednesday until the last weekend. We had made considerable efforts to assure a good variety of programs and activities throughout the week, however, folks seem to feel that the early arrivals get the best. It just isn't so.
I, or a member of the staff, would be happy to visit your chapter at some point in the future if you feel that it would be of benefit. Please let me know.
Sincerely,
Billy M. Henderson,
Executive Director