As we enter the 2007, it has been traditional to take a look back at the year just past.  Fortunately, there was nothing spectacular that happened, either good or bad, but we just kept moving on. 

Nationwide, student starts have continued to decline.  We enrolled fewer in 2006, however we improved our previous years stats for completions. 
Statistics for '06:  25 of you had your 1st solos (up about 15%); Completions were up slightly from the previous year to 13 Private Pilots, 2 Instrument Pilots; 1 Commercial and 1 Commercial Multi- Engine.

Most traumatic for the editor was the transition from paper newsletters to communicating via the internet. With this transition we want to thank Ed Blaker of Lynn Graphics for his years of printing the newsletter in a timely fashion, and John Watson who helps us with the many mailing address labels. You made it possible - thanks.

As always, December is the month for celebrating the Holiday Season. There were no PAFT meetings nor fly-ins - only our charitable support for the Princeton Airport's "Santa Fly-In".

Our January dinner meeting will be held on January 10th at Sir John's Restaurant in North Brunswick with Ed Galkin as the speaker. Ed learned to fly with Raritan Valley at 47N and he has flown around the world. He has wonderful stories to tell.

The January Fly-In will be hosted by Steve Anasiewicz to Lancaster, PA on the 21st. Lunch will be at a restaurant on the field. If you have not joined this group of aviators, it only costs $25/year - such a bargain. See Dick Nierenberg, Treasurer.

We were quite surprise when our chief pilot, Rick Harrison, decided to leave last month. It has left a small hole which we will be able to cover with our long time, experienced Assistant Chief Pilots, Peter Rafle and Bryan Boyle. They have been able to carry us through other times when we have a sudden departure, and they will help us now. Thanks, guys.

Brian "Lucas" Lucas has moved to full time status, so our needs are being met. We will have a bit a disruption as Gi Gi is getting married and we expect her return shortly after the New Year. Knut Markus will return to Norway for a holiday visit and when he returns, Stig Flem plans to take his turn. But by the middle of January, we should be back in full swing.

Private and/or Instrument
As we start the New Year, perhaps your resolution is to passed the FAA Computer Knowledge Test.  If so, why don't you sign up for a class and indicate which night is best for you.  The Instrument Class will be on Thursday and it will be taught by Assistant Chief Pilot, Bryan Boyle, if we have sufficient enrollment.  The class meets once a week for about three hours; they take quizzes together; and when it's over they take our final exam.  Once that is completed, you are well ready to take the actual FAA exam and expect a high grade.  For the Private Class we charge an additional $75 to the enrollment package if you are flying at Princeton.  Call 609-921-3100 today and bring your resolution to fruition.

Congratulations to the Moses Frenck family who recently welcomed a new baby girl: she will join an older sister. And well wishes to the Jerry Miller family on the birth of their son.