Thanking Air Show volunteers at a perfect picnic

Linda Elie and Jodie Potter celebrate at Stuart Air Show volunteer picnic.

It takes planes and pilots to put on a successful air show, but it also takes volunteers – lots of volunteers. The Board of Directors of the Stuart Air Show thanked theirs the best way they could: at a glorious party held at the Flagler Center in downtown Stuart on March 5.

More than 150 people attended, reuniting with new and old air show friends and the show’s extended family. For some, the first year they volunteered was in 2022, but for others - like Chuck Cleaver, the longest serving volunteer – it’s been decades. As a matter of fact, Cleaver has been at it for 30-plus years.

Lots of the reminiscing revolved around the uncertainty and delays that Hurricane Nicole brought to Air Show weekend.

"Every year has its set of surprises and challenges," says Inez van Ravenzwaaij, Stuart Air Show Executive Director. "But this year was extraordinary because we were staring-down a category one hurricane just days before the show. Without our dedicated cadre of volunteers and the support of the community we wouldn’t have been able to have the show as we did. I’m incredibly proud to work shoulder to shoulder with all our volunteers. They’re simply the best!"

It's become a family and intergenerational experience to volunteer at the show. "I love to see our roster grow every year," says Leslie Judd, Volunteer Key Leader and Principal of Clark Advanced Learning Center. "Not just by individuals, but by teams and entire families. It’s a testament to the type of event the Stuart Air Show is and the caring community it calls home."

Code Red Roofers, TD Bank and JJ Taylor sponsored the event, donating exciting prizes and giveaways. Jimmy Smiths BBQ was caterer and received rave reviews.

The Stuart Air Show takes lots of pre-planning and Individual volunteer registration for 2023 is now open. Those signing up before May 31 will be entered into a random drawing for airshow prizes

Registration for companies, teams, schools, church groups, clubs, youth groups, etc. is open as well.

The Stuart Air Show is expanding its Key Leader team for those with air show experience who want to stretch their wings and fly on a committee or in a leadership position.

Tickets go on sale in early May. Visit www.stuartairshow.com to sign up as a volunteer or for email updates on the air show and promotions.

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