Jim's interest in aviation started as a young boy when he climbed the trees at the local airport to watch airplanes take off and land.  He's been the Airport Manager at that same airport, Southbridge Municipal Airport, for 30+ years.  In between, his life revolved around flying and the airport.

After Stan, the Airport Manager at the time, pulled him out of that tree and taught him to fly, Jim soloed at sixteen - in a Cessna 150, 172, and 310, a Piper Cub, a V-tail Bonanza, and a Stearman - all in the same day.  He went on to get multi-engine, IFR, commercial, and instructor ratings, and as a veteran of the US Army, he flew countless missions in fixed-wing airplanes and helicopters in Vietnam.

After his military service, Jim became the Airport Manager at 3B0.  As other small airports fell into disrepair or were turned into residential projects, the Southbridge airport continued as one of the best facilities in the area.  During his tenure as Airport Manager, he worked with local, state, and federal organizations, to update master plans, obtain funding, and oversee capital projects.  There were certainly days consumed by airport 'business' when Jim would say, 'I only wanted to be a pilot.', but his commitment and passion for general aviation continued to drive him.

Jim also served as the FBO.  Jim's Flying Service completed innumerable freight and charter flights, and many obtained their 'ticket' through Jim.  He's also hauled banners, and performed 'flying farmer' and aerobatic demonstrations at local air shows.  With 25,000+ PIC hours (and counting), there aren't many types of general aviation aircraft that Jim hasn't flown.  He's the 'old guy' that everyone calls - whether for IFR training, test flying a reconditioned airplane, or a tail-dragger signoff.

Jim encouraged aviation at a very fundamental level.  How many have spent time at their local airport, dreamed about flying, and fulfilled that dream with the guidance of someone like Jim?  As small airports disappear and people like Jim are forced to other endeavors, aviation - especially general aviation, may look very different in the future.  Those who benefited from Jim's expertise and dedication, appreciate the opportunity to fly, in these times, with this flyer.