[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 62 (Thursday, May 18, 2006)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E877-E878]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




50TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE WILLIAMSON FLYING CLUB, INC. CELEBRATED ON MAY 
                                18, 2006

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. JAMES T. WALSH

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 18, 2006

  Mr. WALSH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 50th 
Anniversary of the Williamson Flying Club, Inc. The Williamson Flying 
Club began as a shared dream by five men from Williamson, New York. 
These men held informal hearings to share their aspirations of wanting 
to fly and starting their own flying club. On May 4, 1956, these men 
began to realize part of their dream and purchased their first 
aircraft. With time, the group began to expand their membership and 
services. By May 18, 1956, the Williamson Flying Club became 
incorporated as a member corporation. In the beginning, the group 
operated from the Palmyra airport, later they moved to a dirt strip 
that became the Williamson-Sodus Airport. The Williamson-Sodus Airport 
was an 1800-foot runway that was seeded in July 1957. Over the years 
the runway has been upgraded and is now a 3,800 ft. hard surface 
asphalt runway with modern lighting and taxiways and

[[Page E878]]

is always under improvement. By 1975 the club had expanded to 6 
aircraft and today they have over 140 members.
  The Williamson Flying Club, Inc. has a storied history ranging over 
five decades. As stated in their corporation certificate: ``The purpose 
for which the corporation is to be formed are to promote and encourage 
interest in aviation and all allied sciences . . . to teach the members 
of the corporation to fly and improve their ability . . . to purchase . 
. . airplanes . . . airports, hangars . . . but not for profit.'' Out 
of a deep love and respect for aviation, the group carries an 
altruistic spirit to share and spread the wonders that flying can bring 
not only to individuals but also to the surrounding community.
  I congratulate the Williamson Flying Club, Inc. on a successful 
history and wish them the I best of luck for the many more years of 
flying they have ahead.

                          ____________________