Culver firemen test hovercraft on Maxinkuckee ice

January 24, 2011

Preparing to test-drive a hovercraft for the Culver fire department is craft owner Dave Rayburn (seated at least), of Goshen, and fireman Walt Hanselman, right. Speaking to them is Culver Fire Chief Mike Grover, standing. PHOTO: JEFF KENNEY

Members of Culver's volunteer fire department braved the frigid temperatures Saturday morning as they test-drove a hovercraft privately owned by Dave Rayburn of Goshen. The craft, which would be custom-made for the department according to rescue and safety standards, would be used primarily for ice rescues if purchased. Funding for the purchase would come from both the department's town-based budget and the Union Township budget. Township Trustee Jerry Greason -- as well as Township board member Bill Githens -- was on hand to observe.