Economy places Airport Day in jeopardy

A downturn in the economy and budget cuts have caused the 2009 Airport Day to face cancellation.

"At this point it's canceled, but we are trying to work out a deal where we can raise the money to go ahead and have it," Airport Advisory Board Chairman Bob Marshall said.

The board has decided to tentatively cancel the event this year due to a lack of funds. Fort Scott Director of Finance Susan Brown said the city has helped fund the event in the past by providing fuel for the performances.

Airport Supervisor Kenny Howard said one or two of the event's sponsors will not be donating to this year's event.

"We've got one or two sponsors that are gone now, they don't have anything to do with the airport," Howard said.

Howard added the event came up about $1,600 short in funding for last year's event causing the city to give assistance. He added the weather was a factor in the shortfall.

"We know the way the economy is right now, everybody is concerned about the type of donations we may receive for the show this year," Howard said. "Right now we are just waiting to see if we are going to be able to raise the funds this year."

To avoid canceling the event, the board has discussed possible changes. Marshall said there may be a cut back in the number of aerial shows. He said there are usually as many as six performers but future shows may have only two or three performers. Marshall added the board may be looking at bringing in more ground entertainment such as car clubs or motorcycle clubs.

Howard said the event may be held every other year, something other area air shows have done.

Marshall said the board is hoping to raise enough money to continue the event without the city's assistance.

"We're working to make it happen," Marshall said. "I'd say we have a good chance of getting it to happen."