President’s May 2006 Message:

        The Society for Aviation History (SAH) has transitioned very smoothly from the Board's action taken on March 10, 2006, severing ties with the American Aviation Historical Society (AAHS). Our Board and general membership meetings, newsletter, special tours, etc. have continued as "business as usual." No changes in previously planned activities are anticipated for the remainder of the year. Behind the scenes, however, your Board has been very busy taking care of a number of business and administrative issues that became necessary with this change. Roger Cain is currently working to revise our web-site, which is a major task. I'm happy to report that it is coming along very nicely. Betty Veronico, our Secretary and Newsletter Editor, has had the heaviest burden. In this very short transition period, she has virtually completed all necessary updates and tasks - from making every member and spouse new badges (pick yours up at the next meeting if you haven't already) to revising and filing new bylaws with the state. We all owe these two individuals a "round of applause" for the many hours they have put in. Keep in mind that they are Volunteers, and please take a moment to thank them when you see them next.

     Our membership renewal rate for 2006 was very good. Thanks to everyone for staying on-board. The April general luncheon meeting was held at the Crowne Plaza and attended by 77 members and guests. Bob Gilliland, our guest speaker, discussed Lockheed aircraft development that led up to the SR-71A Blackbird and the company's top-secret Skunk Works division. Once again, our Trivia Contest proved to be very challenging thanks to Bill Stubkjaer who put it together. It is always enjoyed by all.

       Our recent tour of Cal Pacific Airmotive, Inc. in Salinas was a huge success. We had approximately 40 members and guests in attendance. A P-51C and TF-51D are currently in the process of restoration, and both projects looked outstanding. See Salinas tour article in this issue by Matthew Mintz on Page 10.

Please see the details in this newsletter regarding our next general meeting scheduled for June 24th. I hope to see you at this meeting.

                                                                                                                                                                                 -Norm Jukes