| 1999 Annual Banquet Chapter 23’s annual banquet was last held on January 8th, 1999. About 180 chapter members and guests attended. The highlight of this year’s banquet was our guest of honor and speaker, Richard VanGrunsven, founder of Van’s Aircraft. The RV series of aircraft have become the most popular homebuilt kits ever, with more than 2,000 examples flying. Mr. VanGrunsven presented a video on the RV aircraft and slides depicting the evolution of his aircraft and company. He also related his experiences flying as a youth out of a farm field in Oregon, including the water bombing of his father and friends who were fishing on a nearby creek. Chapter 23 has a long tradition of honoring members who have completed their first flight in a homebuilt aircraft that they built. Receiving commemorative plaques this year were: Ron Caldwell—RV6A Dick Mitchell—Lancair 320 Sheridan Owens—Midget Mustang Andy Russell—RV-6 Paul Spainhower—Glasair II Dale Spendlove—Prostar PT2-C Another tradition is installing members, who have made significant contributions to the chapter and homebuilding, in Chapter 23’s Hall of Fame. This year’s inductee was Alan Hyde. A new rite, which may become a tradition, was a True Grit award. Plaques were given to Loretta Olsen for serving many years as refreshment chairperson, and to Ralph Cravens for dedication to the Young Eagles Program. A new venue was used for this year’s banquet. It was held at Copper Hills High School in West Jordan. The food prepared by the school staff was excellent, and the facilities outstanding. Copper Hills science teacher and chapter member, Mike Guarino, made the arrangements. Tom Poberezny, the president of the Experimental Aircraft Association, has been invited to be the speaker next year on the 14th of January, |
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