Boehner visits Hartzell Propeller

Originally published in the Piqua Daily Call April 24, 2014

By Bethany J. Royer
PIQUA It is all about the economy and jobs, says Speaker of the House John Boehner, of his
whirlwind visit to Hartzell Propeller Wednesday morning. While work continued as usual for
employees, their special guest toured the facility alongside Joseph Brown, president. The
Speaker stating he was spending time with employers in the district to discuss the issues they
face, while emphasizing companies such as Hartzell are doing very well and adding jobs.
However, there are concerns about the, policies coming out of the federal government, said
Boehner, a subject he believes will likely be repeated over the next two days of a total three-day
visit. One that included a breakfast speech to the Darke County Chamber of Commerce in
Greenville earlier that morning.
Boehners visit was fitting not only due to his current congressional run, but his recognition of a
Hartzell propeller on a military plane in Afghanistan earlier this month. Also, support of Piqua
city leaders who approached his office in regards to their pursuit of National Plan of Integrated
Airport Systems or NPIAS designation from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) so as to
apply for federal aid.
Should the airport receive NPIAS designation, monies can be used for capital improvement
project and annual maintenance to Hartzell Field/Piqua Municipal Airport. Since early 70
corporations utilize the airport so as to take advantage of the services provided by Hartzell
Propeller Inc., including manufacturing, conversions and/or certification. Some of those
companies include the Ohio State Highway Patrol, American Champion Aircraft, Blackhawk
Engine Conversions, Corning Glass, Menards Home Improvement, Sunset Meats, J Crane, and C
& C Aviation.
In March, Gary Huff, city manager, sent a letter to the FAA listing the national significance of
the Piqua airport, the many businesses it serves and requested a waiver for entry into NPIAS.
Hartzell Propeller Inc. backed the letter as a partner in the citys pursuit, as did speaker
Boehners office.
Bethany J. Royer may be reached at (937) 773-2721 or on Twitter @TheDailyCall