By Correne Martin
A private helicopter carrying a pilot and two passengers made an emergency, yet safe, landing on the ball field in Eastman, late Monday around 8:30 p.m.
Community members were alarmed to hear the low-flying helicopter seemingly searching for a place to land, as heavy fog made flying conditions difficult in the area. According to fire chief Tim Sprosty and village employee Jon Payne, it was the quick thinking of one community member, Butch Colson, who thought to flip on the ballpark lights, that resulted in a happy ending for all on board and for local first responders, who were glad this was not a rescue situation but only an unforgettable memory.