Wednesday, July 28, 1999
Big names add punch to sponsor drive for `99 air show

By JANET McGREGOR
Special to The Citizen

Luminaries such as Peachtree City's Lewis Jordan, CEO of AirTran Airways, are working to make an annual Peachtree City air show the best ever in 1999.

Not only has AirTran signed on as a title sponsor, but Jordan is serving as chairman of the show's advisory board.

Organizers are expecting a substantial increase over last year's 17,000 spectators for the Wings Over Dixie `99 Festival and Air Show in September.

In addition to the influence of Jordan, another factor helping the show is the demise of the Dobbins Air Show. “We will now be the only air show in the Atlanta area,” said Ross Berry, cochairman of the sponsorship committee.

During kickoff ceremonies for the Peachtree City Show, keynote speaker Hollis Harris, CEO of World Airways and former sponsor of the Marietta show, said, “I'm a big fan of aviation and I think it's great for Peachtree City to be filling the void.”

Jordan's involvement has contributed another factor that is increasing public awareness of the show — a number of notable sponsors have committed their names, money and time.

Compaq Computers, WSB Radio, Longhorn Steakhouse, Gene Evans Ford and Hertz Rent-a-Car are a few of the larger sponsors. Numerous local sponsors also have joined in.

“Lewis brought a vision to Wings Over Dixie and has helped tremendously in raising awareness of this great event,” said Berry.

Community leaders in Fayette County, Fayetteville, Tyrone and Peachtree City all have committed support to the show this year. “Last year was phenomenal,” said Berry. “This year our expectations are much higher, partially as a result of the commitment of the community.

U.S. Rep. Mac Collins said he is looking forward to being involved as well. “The show promises to bring our community together, inspire us to reflect on the sacrifices which have made American great, and cause us to appreciate the skills of individuals who pilot the aircraft our military sends into the sky,” he said.

Among airplanes on display at the show are a 1943 SBD-5 Douglas Dauntless that has undergone a $100,000 restoration and an F-16 Fighting Falcon. AirTran will be giving away eight sets of airline tickets each day as well as other family trips. There also will be food, planes to tour and entertainment.

Part of the proceeds will benefit the Fayette Youth Protection Home. Other beneficiaries are Kiwanis Clubs and the Dixie Wing of the Confederate Air Force.

Wings Over Dixie will be Sept. 11 and 12 at Falcon Field in Peachtree City. For sponsorship information, phone Jim Friday, director of the Fayette Youth Protection Home, at 770-631-2469 or Ross Berry, treasurer for the home, at 770-716-8796.


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