Batavia Township Trustees recognized Hal Shevers, founder of Sporty's Pilot Shop, for his contributions to the community June 5. From left are fiscal officer Jennifer Haley, Trustees Randy Perry and Jim Sauls, Hal and Sandy Shevers and Trustee Bill Dowdney.
Batavia Township Trustees have been recognizing local business owners each month for their contributions and success in the township.

At their June 5 meeting, trustees recognized local business owner Hal Shevers for the contributions he has made over the years.

Shevers founded Sporty’s Pilot Shop in 1961 while he was also a flight instructor. Sporty’s moved to Clermont County in 1990 and since then, the company has grown into a pilot shop known around the world, an aviation academy and much more.

“It is clear Hal was no ordinary flight instructor,” Rex Parsons, Batavia Township administrator, said.

Parsons, along with trustees, presented Shevers with a plaque and thanked him for his contributions to the township.

“We’re humbled that you have recognized what we do,” Shevers said at the meeting. “It’s a passion that turned into a business.”