Chapter Chatter

‘Twas the night before Christmas, when all thro’ the house Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse; The stockings were hung by the chimney with care, In hopes that St. Nicholas soon would be there; The children were nestled all snug in their beds, While visions of sugar plums danced in their heads…’

While speaking of visions I would like to share my vision for our chapter as we start a New Year.

First a little history of A journey of seven years “for 501c3 status.”

It all started in February 2010 when a small group of members held the first meeting to discuss the prospect of EAA 430 becoming a 501c3 organization. The purpose for this tax status was to be able to accept donations and benevo-lences for both a chapter home and the scholarship program. Attending were Russ Sides, Alan Thomas (deceased) and Ken Brown. The Chapter voted and approved the proposal at a special meeting in the Monterra Club House. In September 2010 Dan Donovan, Treasurer started the paperwork for the 501c3. After many board meetings and meetings of the committee, Gordon Tubesing (Treasurer 2015) started the final push. With the help of a local tax attorney, Harry Cook (current Treasurer) finished the work in 2016. The IRS granted final approval of the request. Effective date May 15, 2010. IRS Document dated 12/15/2016 with designation of 501c3 Public Charity.

Now it is time to continue the vision started 8 years ago. It is your turn to make your wishes heard as we prepare for the future. With your support, both emotional and financial, this process will be a reality and not just a vision.

Vision for the coming year:

Provide a constant meeting place for all activities regardless of the weather. Our own home. In approximately April, Mike Radford will be selling his hangar. Our chapter will need to find an accommodation to hold meetings and other events. As a backup, Bud Davies has offered his hangar #15 on the North side of the condominiums for us to use. We will announce the moving day when it is has been determined. Expand our membership to be more inclusive of the flying community to include gliders, ultralight and lighter-than -air pilots and ground crews. In accordance with the bylaws, all of these additional groups must also belong to national EAA. Creation of a fund raising committee responsible for: Benevolence and Estate Giving, Scholarships, Building Fund Additional youth programs – learn to build & enhanced skills (Chapter Chatter continued)

2019 will be a very busy year. With your help, we will continue to advance aviation on the Olympic Peninsula and the benefits to our EAA family.

As this year ends, we can reflect on the difference our Young Eagle program has had on many youth in our region. We have seen our membership grow, while at the same time saying good-bye to members moving away or those who have Gone West. In all things we look forward with hope for a better year. Wishing you and your family the very best. Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, Happy Boxing Day and Joyous Kwanzaa.

Ken Brown, President