Buzzard Droppings September 2004

(President’s Message continued from page 1)

Scott Curtis did a great job of managing our combat event. Many would have guessed that Scott would clean up in this event. But, Dean Appell swept the event by chasing down and sheering off two of his opponent’s streamers. It was a safe and fun event for all who participated as a pilot, helper or spectator. Thanks to Sandy, who did the cooking for us all!

It is not too early to consider volunteering to run as a club officer for 2005. The club is doing well, with a great flying field. It is a good time to examine the members’ wants and needs to make sure the club grows in the direction that supports the current membership. We should be receiving our AMA renewal requests soon, as well.

In October, we will be starting our Builder’s Competition. Our program this month will be discussing the Builder’s Competition and rules. Maybe this year I’ll even get to build that Bud Nosen P47. The box only weighs 42 lbs for a 25lb airplane. Some sanding needed for sure.

Some of our club members fly all year round and

(August Meeting Minutes continued from page 1)

not sure if the egg drop would be done again.  There were only 4 flyers that entered the event and a question was raised if we should hold the 2^nd scheduled Fun Fly (discussed later in the meeting…).

The Combat event is scheduled for August 14^th and Scott Curtis gave a brief review of the event and invited all AMA members to join in, and bring anyone to come to watch.

Secretary:

Bob Martin reported that since the increase in this year’s membership last meeting, we had 2 new members, and one returning member join. This brings our total membership to 63 full members 4 family members and 1 junior member.  He also went over a few emails that he received regarding products that were for sale.

Treasurer:

Doug was not present, but Ron stated that the club is in good financial condition.  He had received the receipts for the field improvements in May.  We should have a better idea of the club’s balance at the next meeting.

Safety:

Randy advised that the AMA is very serious regarding the charging of the Lithium Batteries.  The AMA has had numerous reports of the batteries exploding during charging causing garage or shop fires.  It is advised that you do not charge the batteries overnight without supervision and do not charge the Lithium batteries if there is any sign at all of damage.  Randy also reported that he has found a welding shop near our field.  The gentleman has a welding fabrication shop in his garage behind his house on Hwy 202 in Monroe. 

He advised that the Northwest corner of the field should be avoided.  It was discussed that we send a representative from the club to approach our neighbor

to investigate the situation. Ron and Randy will team up to visit him.

Randy announced that he has a new phone number. 360-287-0380. Any safety issues should be reported to him.

 

Committee Reports:

Pilot Training:

Several new members have been checked out in the past few months and we have had several complete our pilot training program.  The Program is working great and all have enjoyed the experience.

Field Improvement:

Joe Goffin reported that the lawn tractor has been modified to power his sprayer and he will spray the fence line again this month.  Joe also reported that he is involved in developing a new field in Arlington and any help from the club members would be appreciated.   Bob Martin suggested that this fall would be a good time to spread a turf builder and weed killer on the field.  This action, just before the rains in September, would give the field a good start for next spring. It was discussed and decided to go ahead with this in September.

Ron Swift reported that he had purchased a new windsock for the field and one was also donated last month.  We now have two new windsocks. Arrangements will be made to install them.

Charity Program:

Jim Clayton was not present; Ron did state that we have collected about $12 in the can during the past two events.

New Business:

Orders for club Jackets, hats and shirts are being taken,,, See or contact Doug Hoff or Ron Swift if you are interested.

Bob Martin opened a discussion on a future field fund.  He explained that although we have a great field presently we have no guarantees that we would not lose it sometime in the future.  It may be 2, 5 or even 10 years, but at present

(Continued on page 3)

the field has

been in great

 shape for

the past

three years.

If you can

take the cold

(maybe even

 snow) we’ll

be out there.

 Join us in

the fun! See

you at the

flying field.

Ron

 

[Randy, Dan

and Ron put up

the new wind

socks]