In a friendly challenge between AOPA Foundation Executive Director Jim Minow and AOPA President Mark Baker, general aviation will ultimately be the winner. The two have agreed to a dogfight, so to speak, to see who can recruit the most Hat in the Ring Society members. Society members’ contributions support aviation safety, promote local airports, build the pilot population, and promote the good work being done through general aviation.
With a goal of reaching 50 new members, Minow has tapped Bruce Landsberg, the retiring president of the AOPA Foundation, to join his team for the challenge, and they are working together to recruit new members of the Hat in the Ring Society.
The Hat in the Ring Society is named for the World War I fighter squadron led by Capt. Eddie Rickenbacker. Pilots who believe general aviation is worth fighting for can “throw their hat into the ring” by making a donation between $1,000 and $5,000 a year.
“We’re so close to reaching our goal of 50 new Hat in the Ring Society members,” said Minow. “Those who join this group of dedicated pilots have committed to take a proactive role in supporting initiatives that preserve community airports, grow our pilot population, and provide top-notch safety education to pilots everywhere.”
Pilots who want to participate in the dogfight to benefit GA or who want to learn more about the Hat in the Ring Society can contact Justin Biassou, AOPA Foundation donor relations specialist, by email or by calling 301/695-2268. Donors who want their contribution to count toward the dogfight can designate either Team Mark Baker or Team Jim Minow/Bruce Landsberg. Donors also can have their contribution count for both teams: Sign up for a joint membership (for you and a friend or family member) and contribute $2,000.
The AOPA Foundation thanks those who have already donated during this dogfight. Contributions made before Dec. 31 are tax deductible on 2014 returns.
