Jeff Gros, Committee Chairman and RD; Karen Richmond, Registrar; John Richmond Jean Bower, Scoring; Joe Richmond, Asst. RD, Bob Armbruster, Treasurer.

In memory of Gerhard Kelter, a long-time member of the Chicago RC Model Yacht Club, the 2026 Soling Region 4 Championship was hosted on May 16-17, 2026 by the Chicago RC Model Yacht Club. Perfect conditions with sunny and warm Spring weather, mild and gusty West winds on Saturday and light SW winds on Sunday. 27 races were completed. 13 sailors registered and the 13 boats sailed as one fleet. We had sailors from Michigan (1), Wisconsin (8) and Illinois (4). Trophies were awarded for 1st thru 4th place. The Saturday night BBQ dinner at the lake pavilion provided great food and wonderful socializing. Gerhard Kelter was a wonderful friend and mentor to his fellow sailors in Chicago and Bonita Springs, Florida where he lived after retirement. He sailed all classes of boats, taught workshops for beginning sailors, and traveled extensively with Izzy, his lovely wife, to participate in model sailing events. His cheerful Corinthian spirit and positive encouragement will be greatly missed.