Finally got to meet CHAD!

[BSwayze]

... and Jeff Skiles, too!

I've been working on my RV-7A for just over 6 years now. During most of this time, I've been on Rivetbangers. I love it here. I followed Chad's progress with great interest as he finished and flew his RV-7. I have enjoyed this forum immensely. I couldn't put a price on all the things I have learned, the friends I have made, and even the occasional teasing and poking fun at Chad from time to time. I'm not sure anyone else here has been the victim or the butt of so much of this kind of thing as Chad has. I suppose it could be argued that he deserves it... but don't get me started.

Anyway, since I live on the left coast, I have had very little personal interaction with all my friends here on RB. Everyone seems to be so far away. Course, I've never been to Osh. Or Sun-N-Fun. That will change.

So on Friday, I learned that EAA is doing a "Grass Roots" tour. Thanks to a brief chat on facebook with Chad, I learned about a potluck on Friday night that was a mere 1 hours' drive from here. I couldn't pass it up.

At the end of the day, Chad is a great guy. One of the best, in fact. I'm proud that he represents our interests at EAA. Nice to meet you, Buddy! Finally! I look forward to seeing you again, along with all the rest of my friends here.



While I'm at it, kudos to Jeff Skiles, too! Who could ever forget the Miracle on the Hudson, and how he and Skully ditched that disabled plane and not a life was lost. When my wife heard that I was going to have a chance to meet him, she said "be sure to get a picture!" Very nice to meet you, Jeff! Yes, that's Van behind us. Chad and I had a nice chat with him and his brother, Jerry.



Say what you want about EAA, these guys are doing some awesome things for aviation, and I'm proud to have met them both. And by the way... this grassroots tour is really a great thing. The guys from EAA are out here visiting the chapters to get input from us, and to make some really great videos. I was really impressed.

[painless]

Now you see what we've put up with all these years.......

[Bob Barrett]

Did you have to give Chad some Fruity Beer to have your picture taken with him? Jeff being a regular guy would be happy to have his picture taken with any EAA member or aviation enthusiast. But Chad well what can you say

[captain_john]

Now you see what we've put up with all these years.......

OUCH! Why is it that I can actually SEE these words coming out of your mouth, Doc!

hahaha

Bruce, you didn't get too close to Chad for too long did you? Some Whiskey Victor might rub off on you!



Chadley, looking forward to your visit this summer!!! We will have to yuck it up a bit when you get here!



...just don't bring the crocs. This is the Boston area. We considah them wicked fricken' gay...

CJ

[cjensen]

Awwwee...you guys are so nice!

It was an absolute pleasure meeting you Bruce, as well as all the EAA members I met on this trip! What a whirlwind it was, but we had a great time.

I think I've decided that my drinking of fruity beer is based on my health needs. I really don't eat enough fruit, and if I can combine the two, it really does make perfect sense.