The March sun was already warming the ramp at KGIF Gilbert Field when we settled in at Hangar 100 on the morning of the 8th. Chairs filled, a few new faces introduced themselves, and Rick called the meeting to order at 9:06 AM. Ninety minutes later, we had covered everything from a major milestone in the chapter’s history to a builder’s story worth coming back for.
Chapter 229 Is Pursuing 501(c)3 Status
The biggest news of the morning came from Vice President Norm Isler: Chapter 229 is pursuing 501(c)3 status — federal tax-exempt recognition that will save the chapter money on taxes and open the door to accepting charitable donations. The savings on the building alone will cover the filing fees within two years. The bylaws have been updated and will be sent to members by email before the next meeting.
A member vote takes place at the April 4 meeting. If you’re a paid member, your vote counts — plan to attend or designate a proxy to a current chapter member. Norm will have all the details in your inbox before then.
Featured Presentation: Dave Hurd’s Glasair II SL
Our featured program came from Dave Hurd, who walked us through the design and construction of his Glasair II SL — a sleek composite experimental aircraft he built himself. The questions from the floor kept coming well after the slides were done. We’ll have a full Member Spotlight on Dave’s build in an upcoming post. Stay tuned.
Sun-n-Fun Is Almost Here — Volunteers Still Needed
Sun-n-Fun Fly-In — the annual aviation gathering at Lakeland Linder Regional Airport — is just weeks away, and we still need volunteers to staff tiedown sales on the field April 11-19. Shifts run about 2½ to 3 hours. Sign up for four shifts, and you’ll earn free admission for the week, a parking permit, and free camping for next year.
Contact Mitch Spring at (407) 744-6571 or mitchell_s_34771@yahoo.com to get on the schedule. If you’re around Sunday evening, there’s a Taildragger Party from 7–9 PM — free tickets, but you’ll need to request one in advance.
Around the Chapter
- Synergy Aero has opened at the KGIF Terminal with pilot supplies on hand and ordering available. Worth a stop next time you’re at the field.
- Pigs and Planes — a community fly-in and barbecue hosted by the airport — schedule for Saturday, March 14 at KGIF.
- Name tags are ready for all paid members as of February 7. Norm Isler is donating a second batch of 50 for newer members. Wear yours to every gathering and leave it in Hangar 100 for the next event.
- The Burt and Bernice Williams Park dedication is coming up in the next few weeks. Bernice earned her pilot’s license at 66 and flew until age 88. She would have turned 100 on April 18 — a reminder that aviation belongs to everyone willing to reach for it.
See You April 4
Our next meeting is Saturday, April 4, 2026 at 9:00 AM in Hangar 100 at KGIF Gilbert Field. Presentation will be Airplane Puppy Rescue by Steve Van Cleve and Angie Riviello. The 501(c)3 vote is on the agenda — your presence matters. Young Eagles rally dates are still being finalized; watch for an announcement soon.
If you’ve been thinking about stopping in, the first Saturday of the month is the perfect place to start. No commitment required — just come see what we’re building.