Go to the North Tent at EAA Member Village and have your photo added to the collage of EAAers united against user fees.

Before lunchtime on opening day, more than 325 EAA members had signed a petition to keep user fees out of general aviation, and more than 200 member photographs filled the display panels at EAA Member Village to show Congress the "face" of EAAers united against the establishment of user fees to fund the nation’s air traffic control system.

"This display shows the faces of people who want to keep user fees out of general aviation and who vote with that in mind," said Linda Anderson, EAA Member Village volunteer. "We’ve had nonstop traffic in here so far."

The display in EAA Member Village (North Tent) gives members a chance to voice their opposition to Senate and FAA funding proposals, which would impose general aviation user fees and dramatic increases in fuel taxes for piston aircraft. EAA and other GA organizations are supporting H.R. 2881, the House bill for FAA reauthorization, which does not include GA user fees.

Volunteers are taking pictures of members who say "No!" to user fees, and posting them on the display panels in the tent. These photos will be given to congressional leaders along with the petition when they lead a forum at Sporty’s Pavilion on Saturday, July 28, at 11:30 a.m.

Photos on the collage boards in the display are beginning to outgrow their space. "We have been amazed at the number of people who want to participate," Anderson said. "We’ll keep adding panels so that everyone has a chance to be a part of this grassroots effort."

Everyone attending AirVenture is encouraged to visit Member Village, sign the petition, and add their face to the display. Members are also encouraged to wear their "EAAers Unite" buttons every day during the convention for a further show of solidarity.

For more information on the user fee threat, or to get your own button, visit EAA Member Village-North Tent, or visit us online at www.EAA.org.