By Mathieu Labs, EAA Lifetime 678257
In 2020, Caz Muske, EAA 1491126, took on the role of airport manager at Wisconsin’s Clintonville Municipal Airport (CLI), stepping into the world of aviation with an eagerness to learn. She was fortunate to have the mentorship of Mike McCord, Clintonville’s long-time public works director and a beloved community figure, who shared his expertise and passion for the airport. Mike, with his deep appreciation for CLI and extensive knowledge of public works, helped Caz understand not only the logistics but also the airport’s historical significance.
Mike introduced Caz to CLI’s storied past, tracing back to the demand from executives of the Four-Wheel Drive Auto Company (now Seagrave-FWD). Their need for reliable air travel led to the founding of Wisconsin Central Airlines, which later became part of Delta Air Lines, marking CLI as its birthplace. However, Mike was also aware of the gradual decline in activity at CLI and encouraged Caz to consider forming a local EAA chapter as a way to reignite community involvement and aviation interest in Clintonville.
In 2021, inspired by Mike’s vision, Caz began the journey of establishing an EAA chapter at CLI. Like many small communities, Clintonville faces challenges in volunteer recruitment and sustaining momentum for new initiatives. After researching successful multi-municipality EAA chapters, Caz realized that partnerships might be essential for success. She reached out to Colin Isom, EAA Lifetime 1174937, the airport manager at Shawano Municipal Airport and Seaplane Base (EZS), who understood the difficulties of building a local chapter and was eager to collaborate.
With the support of EAA, Caz and Colin began reaching out to nearby airports and EAA chapters, seeking guidance and sharing ideas. This partnership marked a new chapter for CLI, driven by a shared mission to strengthen community ties, preserve aviation history, and inspire future pilots.
In the summer of 2024, I reached out to Caz to help promote a hamburger social for his local EAA chapter. During our conversation, we discussed the intricacies of running a successful chapter. With my experience in revitalizing my own chapter — from growing membership and establishing a lasting legacy — I was able to offer valuable insights. I was also preparing to leave my current chapter to pursue new aviation goals, making this a timely opportunity to assist.
During a meeting with Caz and Colin, they mentioned they still needed to fill key roles, including president, treasurer, and secretary, to officially launch their chapter. I offered to take on the role of Young Eagles coordinator, as inspiring the next generation of youths remains one of my greatest passions. However, after a month passed and no one had stepped forward to take on the role of president, my wife Lauren and I decided to step up and take on the responsibility.
With our combined experience in various EAA chapter roles across Illinois and Wisconsin, and volunteering at AirVenture, we knew this would be a rewarding next step. Within a couple of months, we completed the setup with EAA and hosted an open house that brought together 50 people from neighboring communities, all sharing a passion for launching this new EAA chapter. The chapter was officially established with EAA on November 18, 2024, with the following leadership team:
President/Young Eagles Coordinator – Mathieu Labs, EAA Lifetime 678257
Vice President – Fran West, EAA 211828
Treasurer – Daniel Connelly, EAA 1597066
Secretary – Lauren Labs, EAA Lifetime 1181896
Starting in January 2025, EAA Chapter 1710 will meet on the third Wednesday of each month at 7 p.m., rotating between CLI and EZS airports. You’re welcome to come and enjoy a great time! Contact: EAAChapter1710@gmail.com, or on Facebook at EAA Chapter 1710.