The Memorial Day meeting was well attended. Lots of good food as well. Nobody flew in this time, however, as the weather proved unpredictable. There was a mystery plane down the ramp a ways: the green paint and expanse of windshield seemed to suggest a military observation or liaison plane, though a big nine-cylinder radial on the nose lent an odd shape to the fuselage. Only a few of the wiser and more experienced spotters could identify it as the Stinson-designed, Consolidated-built L-13.
Karsten, back home again, opened the meeting with the Pledge.
One particularly notable visitor today: Cole Hahn made his first appearance at the ARC.
Steve Morse addressed the group regarding the purchase of welding equipment. One possible option is the HTP 201 at approximately $2500. Equivalent equipment from Lincoln Electric would cost around $700 more. Steve's working on contacting the vendor of the HTP machine to see what kind of deal we might get.
Laura read a note from Janet Kleinheider, the third-grade teacher who works on our Washington Young Eagles event, thanking us for our efforts. Leo reports that he and other pilots have also received letters from the young folks they flew that weekend. Laura also notes that we have a new Young Eagles form. Pilot and parent signatures are now part of the process. Remember that we've got an upcoming event in June. On a related note John updated us on the new EAA program that gives kids their first official logbook entry. He was present at the Midwest Regional Fly-In, and although weather did not permit any flights participants did receive logbook entries. Note that KidVenture will be even bigger this year. Volunteers are welcome.
Ron asked a question of interest to Young Eagles pilots. His accountant told him he needed a receipt in order to write off Young Eagles expenses as a charitable contribution. George suggested providing a fuel or rental receipt. Laura noted that, if further documentation is required, the chapter could provide a note on EAA32 letterhead.
Leo continues to work towards our goal of fresh water. He has recently hit an obstacle: the plumber he was communicating with does not want to do any work at KSET as it is too far away. Please contact Leo if you know of any plumbers in St. Charles.
Karsten brought up the sale of our Mustang II. Gale has set a price of $4500. Steve suggested that we give some thought to a minimum price that we would consider in case of a lower offer. Motion was made to put the Mustang II in the For Sale area of our website.
Laura reminded the group of our annual chapter photo at Oshkosh.
New treasurer Gary reported on balances in our savings and checking accounts. He advised the chapter that we'll need to spend some of this to avoid potential tax issues, which will not be a problem considering we're quickly moving ahead on the purchase of welding equipment. He is also investigating whether or not the chapter could defray some of the expenses incurred by our Young Eagles pilots. Gary notes that he will not be at the June meeting, so if you have reimbursements or other business either contact him directly or wait until the August meeting.
Ron updated us on the food coupon program and asked for a volunteer to act as his new assistant. Gary, of course, has recently vacated this post to act as treasurer. The assistant's duties will include approximately two trips per year to Ellisville to pick up coupons.
If you've been following the e-mail threads you may have read the discussions regarding scales. Steve is going to investigate this tool, but notes that if we purchase new scales we'll also need to fabricate new ramps. Bud Cole has an older set of scales that utilize weights that he is willing to bring in. We will soon have a bending brake for our chapter. It will need a little work but the price is right: Free for the taking. We also now have a set of automotive wheel dollys that should work for moving aircraft around. These were provided by Al Donalsdon. Al has also offered to bring his TIG welder in for those who would like to take it for a spin.
Ernie is willing to tackle setting up the flag pole provided we have a definite location. Per Tracy it must be 35 feet away from buildings and the road.
Submitted by Dave Deweese
