tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32861641409038204272012-01-13T12:46:02.933-08:00Steve Taylor, EAA facilities manager, and Dick Knapinski, EAA communications director, provide regular updates on the EAA AirVenture site improvements, as well as camping and aircraft parking information leading up to and during The World's Greatest Aviation Celebration.EAA Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12342779259130051283noreply@blogger.comBlogger831100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286164140903820427.post-83347110127371710152011-11-16T08:25:00.000-08:002011-11-18T07:02:51.610-08:00

Nothing lets you know that summer is definitely over than the first snowfall of the season. Oshkosh got that message loud and clear last Wednesday, as about 3 inches of heavy, wet snow hit the area. Thankfully, prior to then we were blessed with great weather these last few months that resulted in an extended growing season to help expedite ground repairs.Crews stayed busy making their usual

EAA Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12342779259130051283noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286164140903820427.post-72161138371402582192011-07-28T14:44:00.000-07:002011-07-28T14:48:34.339-07:00

Here's a brief update from around the grounds as of 4:30 p.m. CDT Thursday:Grass roadways in Camp Scholler (primarily the numbered streets and Cedar Ave.) as well as the parking lots are a quagmire following yesterday's and today's early morning showers. More rain is forecasted Thursday evening.Campsites, however, look to be in good shape for the most part since many campers were already in place

EAA Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12342779259130051283noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286164140903820427.post-46121889971378827252011-07-27T18:43:00.000-07:002011-07-27T18:47:05.746-07:00

Tuesday, we reported the grounds were in excellent condition after days of dry weather. Sorry about that jinx. AirVenture 2011 saw its first substantial rains Wednesday, as nearly an inch fell during off-and-on showers in the morning. Here's a brief update from around the grounds as of 8 p.m. CDT Wednesday:The rains came at the worst time, just before gates opened for the day. Thus, the grounds

EAA Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12342779259130051283noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286164140903820427.post-73600766917593308002011-07-26T15:12:00.000-07:002011-07-26T15:16:32.945-07:00

Here's a brief update from around the grounds as of 5 p.m. CDT Tuesday:Aircraft continue to enter AirVenture in droves. As of 2 p.m., the GA Camping Area is approximately 95% full and the General Aviation Parking Area is approximately 98% full and only able to accommodate single-engine aircraft. Camping is available for general aviation twin-engine aircraft, but those needing parking only must

EAA Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12342779259130051283noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286164140903820427.post-33181524166660570342011-07-25T13:47:00.000-07:002011-07-25T13:55:10.931-07:00

Clear skies greeted everyone at opening day of AirVenture 2011 with not a drop of rain to be felt. Here's a brief update from around the grounds as of 3 p.m. CDT Monday:The flightline and aircraft parking areas continue to swell. The GA camping area is approximately 80% full and the GA parking area is approximately 70% full.Airport parking conditions remain generally excellent, with only a few

EAA Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12342779259130051283noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286164140903820427.post-27801580541359214292011-07-24T15:15:00.000-07:002011-07-24T15:18:48.341-07:00

Here are a few quick aircraft parking and campground updates, as of 5 p.m. CDT Sunday:Another overnight storm hit Oshkosh, but the grounds withstood the heavy rains it brought. Some puddling in Camp Scholler and in the Warbird area. Vehicle access to a few “numbered” streets from Lindbergh in Camp Scholler is blocked off due to soft, muddy ground at the entranceways.North 40 continues to come

EAA Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12342779259130051283noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286164140903820427.post-90752661438991718532011-07-23T13:20:00.000-07:002011-07-23T13:25:53.383-07:00

Here are a few quick aircraft parking and campground updates, as of 3 p.m. CDT Saturday:Storms on Saturday morning brought heavy rains to Oshkosh, and with the exception of puddling in some roadway/driveway areas, the thirsty grounds absorbed the much needed rain.Periods of storms are expected throughout the reminder of Saturday and overnight into Sunday before clearing early in the day.More than

EAA Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12342779259130051283noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286164140903820427.post-71481061741887613572011-07-22T13:26:00.000-07:002011-07-22T13:32:40.623-07:00

Just a little less than three days before AirVenture 2011, the convention site and Camp Scholler are a buzz of activity. Here are a few quick aircraft parking and campground updates, as of 3 p.m. CDT Friday:Camp Scholler is starting to fill. With the warmer than usual temperatures blanketing the area, the shaded areas are the "hot" spots. Paul's Woods is, of course, at capacity as is the wooded

EAA Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12342779259130051283noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286164140903820427.post-156600933673021372011-07-14T10:21:00.000-07:002011-07-14T10:44:05.186-07:00

We are just under two weeks from opening day, but Camp Scholler and the AirVenture grounds are already coming to life. Campers have started to trickle in (or at least put their claims in), and our great volunteer force is doing a yeoman's job of helping ready the convention site.Those who have arrived early got the first look at the drainage improvements and newly chip-sealed roads in various

EAA Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12342779259130051283noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286164140903820427.post-12112112981933474692011-07-07T05:54:00.000-07:002011-07-11T06:56:08.801-07:00

Editor's Note: Campsites south of Lindbergh Road to about Elm Ave. and west of 28th Street to 24th Street were re-leveled, and that is the only area closed for 2011. We apologize for any confusion.Check out the recent story highlighting the drainage improvements in Camp Scholler and the AirVenture grounds.Some notable points from the story:A new north/south drainage area near 28th Street was

EAA Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12342779259130051283noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286164140903820427.post-33329553586111865332011-05-24T13:57:00.000-07:002011-05-24T14:12:21.264-07:00

Mark your calendars: Friday, June 24. One month from today, Camp Scholler opens! AirVenture 2011 is right around the corner and will be here before we know it. As promised, I have more detail regarding the changes you campers will need to be aware of when entering Camp Scholler.Those of you arriving at Camp Scholler during AirVenture will notice a big change at the main entrance. The three "

EAA Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12342779259130051283noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286164140903820427.post-21898350519108650942011-03-23T06:36:00.000-07:002011-03-23T07:01:45.432-07:00

It wasn't quite as intimidating as a warbird roaring over the flightline, but the first bird of the season - the sure sign of spring, the North American Robin - made its return to the AirVenture grounds a few weeks ago.This usually means you can count at least two more snowfalls. We had one shortly after that sighting, and we got blasted with the second one yesterday. Yes, Oshkosh got three

EAA Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12342779259130051283noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286164140903820427.post-47925439168534499202010-11-23T12:25:00.000-08:002011-01-07T13:42:17.388-08:00

After some unseasonably warm temperatures and, of course, rain yesterday (along with a few rare November tornadoes in the state), a brisk chill is in the air and the flurries are a-blowin' today. Winter is right around the corner and we are getting as much as possible done on site before the grounds go into a deep freeze.As I addressed in my last blog update, repairing and improving drainage

EAA Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12342779259130051283noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286164140903820427.post-31564821548212896312010-09-30T12:27:00.000-07:002010-09-30T12:28:41.331-07:00

We are now under 300 short days until AirVenture 2011, but we are still in "repair" mode on the grounds thanks to the "100-Year Flood" dumped on Oshkosh this past July. Crews are reworking land and filling in the various ruts left behind from vehicles, trucks, campers, and aircraft.They've just completed work in the exhibit area and are now moving over to tackle the ruts in Camp Scholler. This

EAA Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12342779259130051283noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286164140903820427.post-61763833699307552972010-08-11T12:49:00.000-07:002010-08-11T12:54:56.506-07:00

Woah! Looks like things got a little busy in here since I last posted before AirVenture. Time to tidy up the blog after having some visitors.In all seriousness, a special thanks to Dick Knapinski, EAA director of communications, and the rest of the dedicated EAA staff and volunteers for helping get our messages out to you through this blog and keeping you updated on the grounds' status as we

EAA Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12342779259130051283noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286164140903820427.post-43301846127996778032010-07-31T07:15:00.000-07:002010-07-31T07:27:12.951-07:00

Normal operations continue to take place at Camp Scholler, as they have since Thursday. Camping units of all sizes are being accommodated as they arrive.Campers at off-site locations earlier in the week should have received all information regarding refunds and credits.There is no significant rain the forecast that would change normal operations through the end of the event tomorrow. If

EAA Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12342779259130051283noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286164140903820427.post-48546455701821749852010-07-31T06:22:00.000-07:002010-07-31T06:28:05.882-07:00

Complete aircraft parking info is available at www.airventure.org/aircraft/parking_status.asp.The north grass taxiways are now usable, but the ones south of Runway 9/27 are not. Some turf areas will not support twin-engine aircraft. Metal matting has been placed in critical soft spots on the turf taxiways. Modified taxi procedures are being used to provide access to General Aviation Camping areas

EAA Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12342779259130051283noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286164140903820427.post-88529048982914681562010-07-29T13:22:00.000-07:002010-07-29T13:25:20.383-07:00

Full updated parking information is always available at www.airventure.org/aircraft/parking_status.asp.Clear skies today helped dry aircraft parking areas in the North 40. North grass taxiways are now usable, but the ones south of Runway 9/27 are not. Most turf areas will not support twin-engine aircraft. Metal matting has been placed in critical soft spots on the turf taxiways. Modified taxi

EAA Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12342779259130051283noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286164140903820427.post-67853021093247218442010-07-29T11:47:00.000-07:002010-07-29T11:50:39.364-07:00

Complete aircraft parking information is available at www.airventure.org/aircraft/parking_status.asp The General Aviation Camping Area is now closed to new arrivals. The General Aviation Parking Area is still open to new arrivals. Clear skies today helped dry aircraft parking areas. However, numerous spots of soft ground are still interspersed among solid areas in the General Aviation Camping and

EAA Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12342779259130051283noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286164140903820427.post-143859070970968612010-07-29T11:33:00.000-07:002010-07-29T11:46:27.928-07:00

If you're coming to AirVenture for the weekend, Camp Scholler is ready for you! The grounds have been drying where Class A rigs are able to be brought in. All campers who wished to return to the grounds from the off-site areas are now back at Camp Scholler. We'll continue to watch the weather for the nxt 48 hours and adjust as necessary.Tent campers and light units continue to be welcomed as well

EAA Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12342779259130051283noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286164140903820427.post-75343865368157432162010-07-28T08:11:00.000-07:002010-07-28T08:17:40.319-07:00

While Tuesday night's rains were not as heavy as expected, the rain does prevent the entry of Class A-type rigs and motorhomes to Camp Scholler this morning. The situation will coninue to be monitored through the day.Units that were parked at the Winnebago County Fairgrounds have been moved to Camp Scholler or other locations. Almost all other units that wished to return to Camp Scholler have

EAA Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12342779259130051283noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286164140903820427.post-46114125818622958552010-07-28T08:08:00.000-07:002010-07-28T08:11:18.729-07:00

Complete aircraft parking informnatuon is always available at www.airventure.org/aircraft/parking_status.asp. Taxiway issues at Oshkosh are expected to keep General Aviation aircraft parking areas closed for much or all of this morning. Overnight rains have not been as heavy as anticipated. However, numerous spots of soft ground are still interspersed among solid areas in the General Aviation

EAA Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12342779259130051283noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286164140903820427.post-27202892275929744762010-07-27T08:23:00.000-07:002010-07-27T08:26:56.272-07:00

Working with local law enforcement officials, some alterations were made to the traffic situation to help the traffic flow today, after campers and other vehicles traffic merged and slowed things down some on Monday. The traffic loop is similar to what has been done in past years.Today's weather has improved the situation, and the plan includes using more of the Orange Lot, all of the Blue Lot

EAA Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12342779259130051283noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286164140903820427.post-61783184036508674112010-07-27T08:16:00.000-07:002010-07-27T09:35:14.588-07:00

EAA is creating a plan to bring some of the big camping rigs back to Camp Scholler for the remainder of their AirVenture stay if they wish. In the interest of full disclosure, we’d like to mention the following: -- There is rain in the forecast for Wednesday, which could set back the progress made in drying Camp Scholler so far; -- There are only a limited number of spaces available for the Class

EAA Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12342779259130051283noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286164140903820427.post-90797084303760634722010-07-27T07:28:00.000-07:002010-07-27T07:37:02.272-07:00

As always, the latest parking information is available at www.airventure.org/aircraft/parking_status.asp.North 40/General aviation parking is welcomed today as the grounds continue to dry. Some areas are allowing parking only and setting up campers in separate areas on the North 40.Aircraft are also being taxied on the North 40 perimeter road to keep them on hard surfaces for longer periods of

EAA Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12342779259130051283noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286164140903820427.post-76639156290807214022010-07-26T18:08:00.000-07:002010-07-26T20:14:05.883-07:00

A big Monday crowd with some wet lots put added pressure on the auto parking crew. Cars coming off Hwy 26 mingled with campers entering Camp Scholler, which slowed both groups down. In addition, moving traffic to the Grey Lot was slower than expected and will be improved for Tuesday.Today we used only about half of the Orange Lot, part of the Red Lot, and none of the Green Lot, which limited

EAA Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12342779259130051283noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286164140903820427.post-83036562498692817062010-07-26T17:13:00.000-07:002010-07-26T17:21:14.505-07:00

As always, updated aircraft parking information is available at www.airventure.org/aircraft/parking_status.asp.At about 7 pm CDT, general aviation (North 40) parking and camping was closed for the evening. A late influx of aircraft filled the available parking positions and and surrounding taxiways. It will take until dark to move those aircraft to parking and camping positions.The situation will

EAA Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12342779259130051283noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286164140903820427.post-33258869923817953502010-07-26T12:00:00.000-07:002010-07-26T12:13:24.727-07:00

Updated parking informnation is available at all times at www.airventure.org/aircraft/parking_status.asp. Also check the Oshkosh ATIS for ATC information.Wittman Regional Airport is now open to all inbound arrivals, including general aviation/North 40. There are still some wet spots in the North 40, so arriving pilots may be asked to park in one location to ensure safe parking of the aircraft,

EAA Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12342779259130051283noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286164140903820427.post-63308372790825709892010-07-26T08:10:00.000-07:002010-07-26T08:25:56.203-07:00

Another good day means more drying in Camp Scholler. While it's still not ready for the Class A camping units yet, it's much better. It will be at least a day or two before those large units can be placed in Camp Scholler.The Winnebago County Fairgrounds have been a godsend for parking large units, since there is plenty of space. All the off-site areas are receiving dumpsters, portable toilets

EAA Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12342779259130051283noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286164140903820427.post-21651470059569473472010-07-26T06:24:00.000-07:002010-07-26T06:32:46.716-07:00

After a look at the grounds this morning and meeting with all the aircraft ops staff and volunteers, showplane arrivals will resume this morning. Pilots of showplanes should listen to the Wittman Regional Airport ATIS at 125.9 or access it by phone at 866-493-5553, to determine the exact time when showplane arrivals will be accepted.The North 40 is still being evaluated, with the goal of opening

EAA Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12342779259130051283noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286164140903820427.post-2137391888671743422010-07-25T17:31:00.000-07:002010-07-25T17:48:39.742-07:00

Camping registration will continue into the evening at Camp Scholler, as long as there is available and usable sites, difficulties with maneuvering campers in the dark, or a lack of arriving campers. If that situation occurs, a controlled shutdown of camping registration for the evening -- meaning that the entry way would be cleared but no further arrivals would be accepted -- would take place

EAA Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12342779259130051283noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286164140903820427.post-46121653270414332532010-07-25T17:23:00.001-07:002010-07-25T17:50:33.436-07:00

Updated aircraft parking information is available online at www.airventure.org/aircraft/parking_status.asp.Aircraft arrivals are still coming to the area, and today was an excellent day for drying. The airport is still closed to nearly all arrivals, but the plan is to open aircraft parking and camping areas on Monday. The exact times will be announced Monday after the morning evaluation of the

EAA Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12342779259130051283noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286164140903820427.post-70243775896098727992010-07-25T12:42:00.000-07:002010-07-25T12:53:06.855-07:00

As many vintage, warbird and homebuilt aircraft that could be safely parked have been positioned in the showplane areas -- more than 350 today -- so Wittman Regional closed to new arrivals at 2 pm CDT today. Will continue to look for dry locations and move aircraft off taxiways to grass parking over next few hours, then re-evaluate at 5 p.m.Aircraft being parked in commercial exhibits will

EAA Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12342779259130051283noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286164140903820427.post-58756790065953817062010-07-25T11:36:00.000-07:002010-07-25T11:49:13.593-07:00

Large rigs are being moved to the Country USA grounds, across Highway 41 from Camp Scholler. Tent and other light camping units are being registered (even in the line at times), and allowed into dry areas within Camp Scholler. Additional registration efforts have been set up to speed along the lines. We are allowing people into the grounds as rapidly as dry areas are located. We appreciate your

EAA Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12342779259130051283noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286164140903820427.post-2832871384124464532010-07-25T11:10:00.000-07:002010-07-25T11:36:12.470-07:00

As always, updated information on aircraft parking is available at www.airventure.org/aircraft/parking_status.aspThere have been plenty of arrivals today, with showplanes (homebuilt, vintage, warbirds, etc.) taking priority. North 40/general aviation campers have been asked to re-route to Fond du Lac (which has camping) or Appleton (parking only).The vintage parking area has received a large

EAA Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12342779259130051283noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286164140903820427.post-41480957638278414432010-07-25T07:46:00.000-07:002010-07-25T07:53:09.863-07:00

Today is the first day where auto parking moves into the equation. As with the camping and aircraft areas, the ground conditions have required that adjsutments be made. For today:- Spot parking will be done in the Blue, Orange and portions of the Red Lot. That should handle the influx expected on Sunday.- Off-site parking for exhibitor trailers is being pursued so some of the lots usually used

EAA Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12342779259130051283noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286164140903820427.post-21697731273500114652010-07-25T07:21:00.001-07:002010-07-25T07:55:29.488-07:00

The tremendous volunteers are much refreshed after a night to rest. Usually they assist people at the entrance and on an as-needed basis within the campground. For the past two days, they have extended their shifts and individually escorted many people to campsites, and also tended to those who have been parked off-site in the big camping rigs and motorhomes.Sorry about any inconvenience that

EAA Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12342779259130051283noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286164140903820427.post-49155678496816977582010-07-25T07:09:00.000-07:002010-07-25T07:21:20.916-07:00

Good morning! The homebuilt and vintage aircraft parking volunteers are starting to bring some showplanes into parking positions, but it's still somewhat slow. Want to make sure to do it right. Sometimes it's move 20 feet to advance 5.In homebuilt, the RV parking area seems to be doing the best, with airplanes being positioned there.Vintage aircraft areas are drying slowly and volunteers there

EAA Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12342779259130051283noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286164140903820427.post-84778542524308550072010-07-24T18:07:00.000-07:002010-07-24T18:13:18.260-07:00

Lots of camper activity today, and we're going to close Camp Scholler registration for the night (it's about 8:15 pm CDT). The campground needs some additional time to dry for tent and small-unit campers, and we're arranging for more hard surface for the big Class A-type rigs.Check back in the morning, around 6:30 am and we'll have an update. Thanks for your patience with a situation that most of

EAA Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12342779259130051283noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286164140903820427.post-63632914625253867202010-07-24T17:24:00.000-07:002010-07-24T17:34:18.403-07:00

It's been a long day for the aircraft ops group, but one that brought some significant progress. Tom Poberezny noted that Sunday's goal is to open some sort of homebuilt and vintage parking on Sunday morning. Vintage will be moving some planes from Taxiway Papa to the Vintage parking area as a test early Sunday. If all goes well, additional vintage aircraft will be placed and homebuilts will

EAA Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12342779259130051283noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286164140903820427.post-19102782937723980822010-07-24T16:13:00.000-07:002010-07-24T17:24:44.075-07:00

Smaller camping units and tent campers are still being placed in Camp Scholler in the driest areas that can be found. The sites with water and electrical hookups are mostly unavailable at this time.Additional areas to park large Class A-type rigs are still being secured. These off-site locations will allow the big rigs to park safely while Camp Scholler continues to dry and firm up.Although

EAA Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12342779259130051283noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286164140903820427.post-14537183363434403262010-07-24T15:44:00.000-07:002010-07-24T16:13:00.920-07:00

The aircraft ops team's update session was late this afternoon, and there's good news. Showplanes that had been parked on hard surfaces on the north and northeast side of the airport are being re-positioned on Taxiway Papa (parallel to Runway 18/36) later this evening and tomorrow morning. Volunteers in those areas are organizing ways to bring the aircraft to the taxiway and be ready for

EAA Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12342779259130051283noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286164140903820427.post-7277572512283782582010-07-24T13:25:00.000-07:002010-07-24T13:28:15.808-07:00

Along with aircraft parking areas and the campgrounds, EAA staff and volunteers are continuing to monitor the status of auto parking lots, with some visitors arriving on Sunday before the official opening day on Monday, July 26.At the current rate of drying, it appears that the auto lots will be in adequate shape for opening day. For visitors to AirVenture on Sunday, July 25, the Red and Orange

EAA Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12342779259130051283noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286164140903820427.post-28857746284917240392010-07-24T13:15:00.000-07:002010-07-24T13:24:51.783-07:00

Campers are still lining up to check in at AirVenture. Tent campers are being allowed to find a dry spot of their choosing in the campground. They are encouraged to find a location and settle in instead of driving excessively in the campground roads. With the conditions, the emphasis is on finding suitable locations, so the usual boundaries between handicapped, 24-hour generator and other areas

EAA Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12342779259130051283noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286164140903820427.post-23277179219583950272010-07-24T12:56:00.000-07:002010-07-24T13:14:40.465-07:00

A sunny, breezy afternoon has helped the field conditions enough that we can start devising a plan for when we can start parking showplanes. The only question is when.The goal today is to get showplanes, such as homebuilts and vintage aircraft, into position on hard surfaces near the flight line. That way, it will be easier to put them in parking and camping position as conditions allow.The plan

EAA Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12342779259130051283noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286164140903820427.post-12268742919169775532010-07-24T10:05:00.000-07:002010-07-24T10:29:16.227-07:00

Here's the latest on what's happening at Camp Scholler:EAA volunteers are selectively placing tent campers in Camp Scholler on high ground. As conditions continue to dry areas of the campground, more tent campers can be allowed in.All other camping units, including motorhomes, fifth-wheels, and pull-behind units, are allowed to register, then guided to hard surface areas off the EAA site for

EAA Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12342779259130051283noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286164140903820427.post-49317895478406154662010-07-24T09:09:00.000-07:002010-07-24T09:31:25.475-07:00

Just left a meeting with all the aircraft parking and camping areas on the AirVenture grounds, and there's a little more optimism than during this morning's rain shower. Some areas are draining better than expected, but there's still a way to go before airplanes can taxi across the sodden sod.You see here Tom P. discussing the options with the group. The priority for arrivals will be showplanes (

EAA Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12342779259130051283noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286164140903820427.post-39050836768986989192010-07-24T06:52:00.000-07:002010-07-24T07:20:19.022-07:00

That's probably the best way to put it. Hi, I'm Dick Knapinski from the EAA staff, one of several people who have hijacked Steve Taylor's blog for the next few days to update you on what is going on throughout the AirVenture site. Steve's pretty busy racing around with all the extra needs on-site because of the rain we've received. Even in a normal year, Steve is "the hardest working man in show

EAA Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12342779259130051283noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286164140903820427.post-56168462506195768682010-07-19T13:18:00.000-07:002010-07-19T13:45:05.392-07:00

Hard to believe that in one week, this gate will be open!These days fly by so fast. That's usually the case when you're having fun ... and that's what we've been having the past several months in as we continue the on-going upgrades to the AirVenture grounds.Along with everyone at EAA, I would like to sincerely thank our hard-working volunteers who have been lending helping hands over the past

EAA Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12342779259130051283noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286164140903820427.post-62633511798125693082010-06-23T11:52:00.000-07:002010-06-25T07:04:21.717-07:00

Greetings from sunny (and warm) OSH! The sun is back out after a few days of sprinkles (and a shower here and there), and work continues on upgrades to the AirVenture grounds that you all will enjoy. Thanks for your patience with the latest update. Understandably, we are hard at work readying the AirVenture grounds for your arrival shortly.Hard to believe in just a few short days we will welcome

EAA Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12342779259130051283noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286164140903820427.post-22983117558396190942010-05-20T11:45:00.000-07:002010-05-21T15:08:21.731-07:00

Even though it's been a few months since I last blogged, that doesn't mean we don't have any site updates to report. With the sun finally shining and the skies clearing (after a very moist April), we've made significant progress on several projects that will enhance everyone's AirVenture experience. Thanks for your patience, and without further ado here are the updates you've been waiting for!

EAA Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12342779259130051283noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286164140903820427.post-56412340520062952132010-02-26T10:23:00.000-08:002010-02-26T10:30:19.686-08:00

Every time we get teased with a couple of warmer days at this time of year, winter reminds us it’s not done yet. It’s nothing that compares to the big snows that hit the East Coast earlier this month, but it’s just enough to move most work inside.One of the projects that we’re doing indoors is the construction of four new tram trailers to expand and upgrade the AirVenture fleet. These tram units

EAA Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12342779259130051283noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286164140903820427.post-27736628898568238052010-01-11T09:47:00.000-08:002010-01-11T09:53:01.380-08:00

It’s snow covered and cold on the AirVenture grounds, as you would expect in January. But there is plenty going on as we work on the 2010 enhancements to the fly-in site.Before the ground froze in late November, we finished putting in the electrical work for a nearly 275 campsites in Camp Scholler that will have electric and water hookups in 2010. That is in the same area as the 24-hour generator

EAA Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12342779259130051283noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286164140903820427.post-18750440767554542012009-11-12T12:24:00.000-08:002009-11-12T12:36:49.251-08:00

We spent much of the fall planning “what’s next” for AirVenture site improvements and enhancements. While the list isn’t nearly as long or extensive as what you saw for last summer’s event, it’s still pretty significant and you’ll notice it on the grounds in 2010.One thing I like about this year’s to-do list is that nearly all the projects relate directly to making everyone’s experience at

EAA Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12342779259130051283noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286164140903820427.post-61050743429732577522009-09-24T11:22:00.000-07:002009-09-24T11:34:26.955-07:00

Nearly two months have passed since AirVenture week. In case you ever thought that the grounds fold up and we all go into hibernation after the event, it’s actually a long way from that.Almost immediately after AirVenture this year, we welcomed about 25,000 Pathfinders youth campers to the grounds for a week. If you thought it was a jammed scene during the fly-in inside Camp Scholler, it was

EAA Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12342779259130051283noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286164140903820427.post-19094462320992438482009-07-21T06:48:00.000-07:002009-07-21T06:53:04.940-07:00

It’s tough to believe opening day is just a week away. It’s been a full-out sprint over the past few weeks, trying to get all the last minute things completed. I heard that the first airplane camper arrived in the North 40 on Sunday, so it starts to become reality now.The volunteers have really arrived in big groups over the past week as well. Area chairmen and other volunteers are now all over

EAA Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12342779259130051283noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286164140903820427.post-72817692737131428292009-06-26T14:12:00.000-07:002009-06-26T14:41:57.110-07:00

As of today, there are 30 days to go until opening day at AirVenture. That’s exciting and scary at the same time. It’s exciting because so much has happened on the site since last year that we’re eager to show off all the new things. It’s scary because there’s always a little voice in the back of your head wondering, “What did I forget?”It’s felt like AirVenture this week on the grounds, too.

EAA Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12342779259130051283noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286164140903820427.post-33133440749445428432009-06-12T09:50:00.001-07:002009-06-12T10:00:07.590-07:00

It’s amazing at how fast the grass is growing now that the sun is out. Many of the areas that were brown just a few weeks ago are now very green. A few more sunny days will help firm the ground. We may even have to mow a few of the new grass areas before AirVenture starts!We’ve been working on another big project this week, putting a stormwater drainage system beneath the big, new Honda exhibit.

EAA Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12342779259130051283noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286164140903820427.post-813146534020834432009-05-22T06:44:00.000-07:002009-05-22T07:11:47.335-07:00

For the first time, I can finally say that most of the major construction, earth-moving, and building placement projects are finished on the site. I would say that 98 percent of the landscaping is completed and grass seed is planted. Now all we need is for the grass to grow! Some of the grass that we planted two weeks ago is starting to sprout. Now, sunshine and soft rain is all we need to turn

EAA Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12342779259130051283noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286164140903820427.post-80024347305199666102009-05-12T12:53:00.000-07:002009-05-12T12:59:31.126-07:00

That’s how I describe what’s going on so far this month. It seems that my only chance to sit down is when I’m driving the truck from one place to another to check on projects. The weather is still cool for May, but at least we’ve had plenty of sunny days to get work done.The pavers have finished putting down the porous asphalt on the new pedestrian walkways from the Main Gate to Knapp Street Road

EAA Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12342779259130051283noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286164140903820427.post-81698124490470515892009-04-29T12:43:00.001-07:002009-04-29T14:44:02.514-07:00

Mud. After nearly three inches of rain over the past week, we’re dealing with ground that is not very sturdy in the prime areas where we’re looking to place building and the like. It’s been back and forth between rain and dry over the last month, so hopefully we’ll get things on a more consistent level in the coming days. In places where grass exists, we’re starting to see things green up a

EAA Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12342779259130051283noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286164140903820427.post-86532252300122553832009-04-17T10:02:00.000-07:002009-04-20T14:52:24.043-07:00

Remember all the worries I had a few weeks back about how wet and soggy and mushy the grounds were? Scratch that. The weather has been beautiful this week and the grounds dried like there was a sponge 50 feet below the surface sucking all the surface moisture away.The great weather (maybe 70 degrees today!) means we can get to landscaping chores. This week we’ve been spending time near AeroShell

EAA Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12342779259130051283noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286164140903820427.post-31253530296345509562009-04-10T14:34:00.000-07:002009-04-10T14:45:43.969-07:00

We have the opportunity to sneak in one more posting before the Easter weekend, so Vintage Aircraft Association executive director H.G. Frautschy has some news about the new type club/workshop hangar in that area...----------------Hi, everyone. The exterior of the new Vintage Hangar is about 95 percent done, with the sliding doors hung, the exterior windows and passage doors installed, and ¾ of

EAA Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12342779259130051283noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286164140903820427.post-69204940768557816682009-04-08T14:57:00.001-07:002009-04-08T15:13:58.438-07:00

As these photos show, the demolition has begun on the old control tower at Wittman Regional Airport. It’s kind of a melancholy day, since this structure was an icon for so many years here at Oshkosh.We at EAA have been asked many times over the past few months if there could have been a different outcome than tearing down the tower. The short answer is no, but let me walk through the timeline so

EAA Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12342779259130051283noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286164140903820427.post-37753419420349946812009-03-28T11:07:00.000-07:002009-03-28T11:09:13.479-07:00

At least I hope we’re turning the corner on the seasons. There’s the possibility of more snow this weekend, but we got about two inches of spring rain on Monday and Tuesday. Remarkably, with the sun and wind on Wednesday and Thursday the grounds dried fairly well.It’s still kind of muddy on the grounds, so there’s more planning right now than actual projects. All the contractors will be having a

EAA Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12342779259130051283noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286164140903820427.post-3888813193432633772009-03-18T09:18:00.000-07:002009-03-18T09:28:35.126-07:00

Everybody’s in a much brighter mood around here this week. The temps broke into the high 50s and the 60s earlier this week and we lost much of the snow that seems to have been here for what seems like the last five decades.As the snow leaves us, reality also starts to sink in on how much needs to get done before the gates open on July 27. It’s a challenge, to be sure, but it will be exciting as

EAA Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12342779259130051283noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286164140903820427.post-27794217780845260132009-03-11T08:49:00.000-07:002009-03-11T08:54:29.424-07:00

At long last, we’re getting confirmation on where some of the remaining buildings will be located after we moved them from the area just north of AeroShell Square. We’ve already discussed the Chapter and Young Eagles buildings (at the corner of Waukau and Knapp Street Road); International Visitors’ Tent (just north of the Control Tower); and the IAC Headquarters (A little bit south of it former

EAA Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12342779259130051283noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286164140903820427.post-21769721648804600252009-02-26T13:52:00.000-08:002009-02-26T13:55:54.996-08:00

…many people say, construction season. On the AirVenture grounds, though, our construction went through much of the winter and is ready to pick up again in March. Not so much today, though, as we're expecting about six inches of snow, maybe mixed with sleet.We’ve set some of the new locations for longtime facilities that were moved after AirVenture 2008. Some of the other places are still waiting

EAA Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12342779259130051283noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286164140903820427.post-63564709507744900672009-02-20T09:09:00.000-08:002009-02-23T08:34:37.310-08:00

It would be easy to be a stick in the mud this week, or at least stuck in the mud. The warmer temps (the couple of inches of snow on Tuesday night that surprised us notwithstanding) have thawed the surface layer, meaning that it’s not a good time for heavy equipment in some areas. Ripping up those areas with heavy-axle vehicles would mean we’d spend our time repairing the grounds in the coming

EAA Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12342779259130051283noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286164140903820427.post-18658590184914495102009-02-13T09:51:00.000-08:002009-02-13T10:10:59.571-08:00

Yes, I’m writing on Friday the 13th, just to show that I’m not superstitious. I even managed to sneak away for a few days of vacation in a nice warm climate before getting back to work here on the site this week. No photos this week, since there’s not a specific “thing” to feature. But there will be some real soon, certainly.Now that the weather is finally warming, we brought all the contractors

EAA Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12342779259130051283noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286164140903820427.post-82148795173841075702009-02-06T12:07:00.001-08:002009-02-06T13:15:55.450-08:00

Now that the calendar has turned to February, the darkest part of winter is behind us. It’s daylight until 6 p.m. in Oshkosh now, and this weekend the temperatures should finally get into the high 30s and maybe even the 40s. It makes working outdoors a little more tolerable, as we had gone nearly six weeks with the temps never rising above freezing.This week we lowered the IAC headquarters

EAA Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12342779259130051283noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286164140903820427.post-70550328504710026982009-01-30T12:24:00.000-08:002009-01-30T12:33:57.558-08:00

We’re moving along on several of the projects described earlier, so I thought this would be a good week to talk about another change everyone will see on the grounds in 2009 – tram service and transportation. With all the changes, upgrading the way people are moved through the grounds is essential. I asked Karen Kryzaniak of the EAA staff, who is part of the group spending a lot of time on those

EAA Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12342779259130051283noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286164140903820427.post-65378986544288466392009-01-23T10:26:00.000-08:002009-01-23T11:40:46.557-08:00

The weather finally gave us a break – if you call temps in the 20s a break – so activity returned to the AirVenture site this week. It’s good to have things moving after a cold and snowy stretch.Some buildings that were on blocks since last fall are finding new locations. The Young Eagles and Chapter buildings will be relocated near the corner of Waukau Avenue and Knapp Street Road. That is just

EAA Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12342779259130051283noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286164140903820427.post-10641546110551921562009-01-14T09:22:00.000-08:002009-01-14T09:53:51.687-08:00

This week Oshkosh is truly the frozen tundra, all but stopping our outdoor work. Below-zero temps will do that. While we’re handling indoor projects, I asked Jeff Kaufman, EAA’s director of business development who is pictured here, to update what’s happening in the main exhibit area for 2009:Thanks, Steve. The redesign of the AirVenture site not only creates better pedestrian flow through the

EAA Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12342779259130051283noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286164140903820427.post-70217762400366641162009-01-08T12:43:00.000-08:002009-01-12T09:27:54.986-08:00

We’ve talked a lot about changes near the relocated Main Gate, but there are several other projects taking place on the grounds that you’ll notice in 2009. One new building is near the Vintage Aircraft Association Red Barn.That building will be replacing the tents that have been used in past years for Vintage type club events and workshop demonstrations. The tents were a workable solution, anyone

EAA Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12342779259130051283noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286164140903820427.post-54213396472316357532008-12-30T09:20:00.000-08:002008-12-30T09:36:11.586-08:00

The Christmas break came at exactly the right time last week. Over the course of four days, it snowed twice, rained hard for one day, and then came ice and snow before it turned colder again. We got a little break early this week, though, so work can continue.The major project is moving the main admission buildings into place at the relocated main gate. These are the largest buildings to be moved

EAA Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12342779259130051283noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286164140903820427.post-8672484708445748802008-12-23T14:07:00.000-08:002008-12-23T14:33:36.558-08:00

Our outdoor activities this week have been limited due to snow removal and clearing. This has been one wild month for winter weather. I’m sure just about everybody in the northern half of the U.S. agrees. I saw they even had snow in Las Vegas last week!Maybe next week we can get back to moving buildings. Since the weather and the holiday week have pretty well stopped any outdoor site activities,

EAA Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12342779259130051283noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286164140903820427.post-15124009504559764272008-12-18T13:52:00.001-08:002008-12-18T14:35:55.421-08:00

Another week, another snowstorm coming to Oshkosh. We spent the past few days working quickly, as more snow is predicted for the end of the week. It was below-zero this morning, so again a lot of credit goes to the crews working in the elements. Also, I want to give credit to EAA photographer Bonnie Kratz, who stomped around in the cold to get these photos.Quite a bit of our work centered on the

EAA Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12342779259130051283noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286164140903820427.post-34956875792808535332008-12-11T08:45:00.000-08:002008-12-11T09:00:29.024-08:00

Wow … it’s already been a heck of a week here on the grounds. Starting Monday afternoon, the snow front moved in. By Tuesday afternoon, we had about 10 inches of new snow. Most of the maintenance crew spent some long hours moving snow around, especially since we had the museum’s big “Christmas in the Air” open house on Monday evening.On Wednesday, we got some AirVenture site items under way again

EAA Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12342779259130051283noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286164140903820427.post-88761817533240224082008-12-03T15:42:00.000-08:002008-12-03T15:44:28.173-08:00

Last week was a little slower time on the grounds for a couple of reasons: First, the Thanksgiving Day break, and second, many crew members were on the annual weeklong holiday here in Wisconsin known as deer hunting season.Still, there were some items that got done. We started installing the perimeter fencing near the new main gate. During AirVenture, many people don’t even notice the fence

EAA Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12342779259130051283noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286164140903820427.post-70435468054887835812008-11-24T10:12:00.000-08:002008-11-25T12:13:15.604-08:00

There was new snow covering the grounds this morning, which took us a little by surprise. For the maintenance crews, that meant the first practice of the winter drill: Get out the plows and move snow from all the driveways and parking lots.Before the snow arrived, we received these photos from Bob Lumley, who is a Vintage Aircraft Association board member. These were taken last Saturday (Nov. 22)

EAA Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12342779259130051283noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286164140903820427.post-18662085125290165322008-11-17T07:58:00.000-08:002008-11-17T08:21:48.659-08:00

The ground construction crews finished work at the end of last week, right on schedule. The electrical work in the new Fly Market location is also wrapping up. Freezing temperatures and cold rain showers are making it tough to work outside, but that’s Wisconsin in November.The only thing that we didn’t get finished as hoped was some of the grass seeding. That will have to wait until spring. The

EAA Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12342779259130051283noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286164140903820427.post-48432728380999640412008-11-10T08:45:00.000-08:002008-11-10T12:43:09.340-08:00

I’m a pretty cool guy to my two young sons right now, because they think Dad is playing in the greatest sandbox ever. It is pretty incredible when I look around the site, especially the 200 acres or so that is directly affected by the first part of the AirVenture site plan work. The look changes each day with the heavy machines running around out here, so it’s a very exciting time on the

EAA Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12342779259130051283noreply@blogger.com8