By Jeffra DeViney
Mary Jo Bayles, Executive Director of Chennault International Airshow, which is slated to be held in Lake Charles on May 10-12, was the guest speaker at DeQuincy Rotary Club.
Bayles, who is City of DeQuincy’s City Planner, expressed that she was excited to see the Rotary Club back in DeQuincy.
She explained she first became involved with the airshow because Chennault supports our local airport with $200,000 per year grant. Other funds are received via state and federal grants.
Since the addition of fuel sales at the DeQuincy Airpark, there is a waiting list for hangers. There are future plans to increase the number of hangers as well as offer flying lessons.
This year marks the 4th year for the Chennault International Airshow. There are so many amazing new acts to include:
F-22 Raptor, Phillips 66 Aerostars, Red Bull Aerobatic Helicopter and Red Bull Jump Team; Red Ball Aerobatic Pilot Kirby Chambliss, Keven Coleman Aerosports, Heritage Flight (F-16 and P-51), Wild Blue Rodeo, Aftershock Jet Fire Truck, Texas Raiders B-17 Flying Fortress, Wing Walker Ashley Shelton, “American Dream” P-40 Warhawk, Aerobatic Pilot Jacquie B, BMX Star Terry Adams, and lots more to be found on their website.
She said the show is about helping kids. Proceeds from the show are used for STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) education in southwest Louisiana.
Mother’s Day weekend will be an aerial treat in Lake Charles this year. – an event for the entire family to enjoy.
Kay Fox won the drawing that was held to give away four complimentary tickets to the show.
The next meeting is Wednesday, May 8. The guest speaker will be a representattive for Associated Builders and Contractors. The meeting will be held at 12 noon at DeQuincy United Methodist Fellowship Hall.