EAA Chapter 430Final Chapter Chatter
Open the PDF at page 1 See the whole December 2021 issue
It hardly seems possible this is my last “chatter” for EAA 430. Since joining the chapter in 2001, it has been my pleasure to serve in almost every chapter leadership position. There is no greater joy than serving our members.
As I look at the sunset of my third year as chapter president, I am pleased with all the accomplishments our chapter has made. During the last 1-1/2 years, we have faced difficult times concerning how we could meet. In spite of the obstacles, we managed to ZOOM are way through. While this alterative was a workable solution, it was the best we could do.
Our membership has grown over the last three years in spite of the obstacles. The scholarship program expanded to three students. Our paver recognition patio is established. We have increased our members to include R/C fliers, Ultralight and powered parachutes pilots.
We have an active and vibrant VMC meeting each month, and we will continue to hold these informative and educational meetings going forward. Our chapter achieved a GOLD rating in 2019, 2020 and hopefully in 2021. This is a tribute to all of you.
Stepping back from the active leadership positon in the chapter is not the end of my involvement. Rather, the beginning of a new chapter. I have several areas of service in which I am perusing. What is my future?
UFO: As most of you know, I am a certified U.F.O. (United Flying Octogenarians) since October 27, 2019. I am committed to helping this organization expand in both membership and recognition in the flying community, increasing its awareness to the younger pilots of the prestige and achievement of being a P.I.C. after 80, with knowledge of how to best prepare for it, while still in your seventies. The Basic-Med program is a great tool for older pilots who want to fly and will be able to do so with missions less demanding. I am currently on the Board of Directors of this international organization. I am writing the monthly newsletter which goes to 1800 members worldwide. I play an active role in board decisions and, as always, I continue to stretch and challenge their thinking. (continued on next page)
Some may say I am retiring from volunteering but this just is not so. I am seeking to contribute at a different level to inspire and help more people in the organizations I hold close to my heart. All of you in 430 hold a special place as my brothers and sisters in aviation. To you all I say FAIR WINDS AND CLEAR SKIES.
See you at the airport and at the next FLY OUT.
Ken