Roof repair - EAA 88

We raising for a new roof. Need approximately $45,000. building roof replacement at the 3612 N. Webb Road location.

In 1963, Experimental Aviation Association Chapter 88 was established and began what has become a long history of aviation support activities for individuals, community organizations, and the general public.

For the 53 years, prior to moving into our current building in 2016, Chapter 88 members have not had a long-standing facility from which to conduct the myriad of activities that we do now. We often borrowed space from churches, NIAR, WSU, Lewis Street Glass, the Kansas Aviation Museum and others as our monthly meeting locations. None of these, with the exception of Lewis Street Glass, has lasted more than a few years before we were again “homeless.” Without a permanent facility, the chapter was hampered in developing its potential to promote aviation to the community.

In 2016 the chapter acquired the original FBO at Col. James Jabara Airport via a lease agreement with the City of Wichita. As tenants, we took on the responsibility of both maintaining and improving the building to make it a viable facility, thus allowing us to greatly expand our promotion of aviation to the Wichita community.

Unfortunately, the building’s critical deficiency is its roof. It is in constant need of repair to prevent water leaks which are damaging the interior ceilings, external soffits and fascias. Two years ago we obtained roof repair quotes ranging from $30,000 to $40,000. Roof replacement expenses exceed our financial budget which barely covers our annual operating expenses of these utilities: building lease, water, gas, electricity, trash service, pest control, insurance, and building maintenance.

We have taken “ownership” of the building by performing many tasks at our expense (some which likely should have been done by the landlord) to make it viable for our purposes. This work has not only made the building continually serviceable but it improves acceptability for current and subsequent renters. To do this, it is vital the building’s roof be replaced protecting its contents, the structure, and ensuring our continued presence.

EAA Chapter 88 is proud to be a permanent organization in the Air Capital and will continue to promote aviation to all age levels. During the Chapter 88’s 59th annual Chapter Air Capital Fly-in at Col. James Airport in September of 2022, we flew 78 Young Eagles (youths ranging from 8 to 17 years old), thus introducing them and their parents to various aspects of aviation. This event is our primary fund raiser enabling us to remain in the building. Additionally this event also promotes the airport.

Clemens Aviation has been a great supporter of EAA Chapter 88, they have repeatedly hosted our annual fly-in by providing one of their large hangars for our activities and this year they provided overnight hangaring for the EAA Tri-Motor’s visit to Wichita. Clemens Aviation also provides space for aircraft parking during our monthly breakfasts when we provide Young Eagle airplane flights.

In summary, we promote aviation activities and awareness of what EAA has to offer to the community. We are a viable asset to Wichita due to our longevity and historical record as an honorable organization. Having a good roof on the building will allow us to continue our objectives.

Sincerely,

Bob Blanton – EAA Chapter 88 Treasurer: