B-17C Project Status Report

[DryMartini]

Pledges: $149.80 (2 pledges for the length of a Fort)
By the way, the length of a B-17C is 67' 10 9/16", but we'll
take the couple extra dollars if it is OK with you

Finances: Currently looking into a 501c3 organization
to bring an early model B-17 back from the dead.

Location: Mike Kellner (the "Desert Rat" owner) has
agreed to share his space with the B-17C project. As
many front end parts of a B-17E are similar, this will ease
the part manufacturing. Also, the "Rat" team is busy
figuring out a plan for a jig for the front and rear ends
for an E, and for the rear end of a "C".

Information: Microfilm is being scanned and enhanced.

Timeframe: Hopefully some time before I shed this mortal coil.

Help: I'm going to ask anyone who may want to help and
can manufacture (small to medium size) parts to PM me.
I can email a blueprint with the size and specs on it.
In general, this has not really worked in the past, but I'm
willing to try again. All I ask is that you are serious about
helping out. If anyone has other ideas about helping, PM me
and we can talk.

-Bill
Project Manager
B-17C Resurrection Team Member

[jmkendall]

Bill,

If you contact me around May, I can kick in 100$ for the cause.

Christmas, Birthdays, and taxes right now!

Joe

[jpeters]

Bill,

Any progress on the 501c3 organization status?

I know I've helped out a little in the past and would like to do so again. Just curious if I can write it off on my taxes next year...every little bit counts ya know!

John

[DryMartini]

John,

Scott and I have talked about trying for a 501c3, and
we're doing some research on the requirements and
paperwork now.

I gotta tell you though - I'm apprehensive about accepting
money for the B-17C, because it is such a huge undertaking.
I guess I don't want to disappoint anyone, or have anyone
T-ed off at me if the project should become mired down.
I mean, as it is, it will take years, and I don't know if anyone
(but me) has an attention span that long.

What do you think?

[jpeters]

You bring up a good point Bill. Considering the amount of work on your hands with the Rat I don't know if you'd have the energy to handle another project. I'd have a mental breakdown with a project that size!

What about a donation for the rat??

John

[DryMartini]

You should come on down for a visit
in the spring. Bring your checkbook.

[jpeters]

I know...I felt so guilty having to bail at the last minute for the Oshkosh meeting. Things have been absolutely crazy around here and I'm hoping things at work will slow down sometime this spring. I want to try and get down there soon so I can drool on all the wonderful work you and Mike have been doing. Don't worry...I'll also be sure to bring my checkbook and those bulky ammo cans that're still sitting in my basement.

John