Monday meeting results and more...

[private e-mail address]

The Chapmans did a wonderful job Monday! That is the first time that we have closed down the library and no one was tempted to leave early! They presented the job of the observer in a new light to many of us that have had limited contact with closely observed flights. Some of the pilots had flown in the nationals a couple of times but even they gained a new respect for the craft of observing. Lots of questions were answered and if we could have stayed longer there would have been more I'm sure.

I didn't get an exact count but the room was pretty full and there were a few faces we haven't seen for a while. That was pretty neat.

The business meeting part went mercifully quickly but some of the information was kind of sketchy. Particularly about the sanctioned flights that Jason Jones is working toward. Let's look at this idea in a little more detail.

The plan in it's current form is thus:

Jason has contacted the BFA and requested the ability to move his open santion to various places. This can be done fairly easily. A map of the flying area and notification to the BFA is all they seem to require. These flights would basically be a single flight compettion, probably on Saturday mornings, at whatever place we could agree on to meet. If I understand correctly, your competition card pays for these races...no entry fee...but in the same breath I must tell you that no cash awards are currently planned. I suppose the contestants could put $ in a kitty for the winner but that is to be seen.
All of the regular officers that are required for a regular santioned race must also be in place. He currently has people who will fill most spots but still needs a safety officer. A few of you have already expressed interest in that position. I think that if you go to the BFA website you can get info on exactly what that invloves. I also think I have a booklet about all of the positions that I will try to find. Barb may also have this. There is a form to fill our and send in but I think we need to know more specifics first.

For the races there may be a requirement for Observers too so you experienced and new observers keep that in mind. We will filll in dates, times and places as soon as that info is available.

So, here's the pitch. This would be a good way for pilots that don't get to fly in many santioned flights to get a few more in. All flights will be in the a.m., as most competition flights at major events are, so you will get practice at real competition. You will be flying in places that would be unfamiliar to most of the other pilots too which could be very chalenging. You would also be back to Columbia in time to take up a passanger in the evening to help pay for your insurance!

If you would be interested in this possibility, please send me an email and I will notify you as soon as we get more details worked out.

Herb
pmheriford@aol.com
1-877-281-3643

Next months meeting is a rehashing of safety seminars that you have attended. Bring any interesting info or stories that you may have picked up...Don't be shy!

March 10 I think at the library. Check the website later to make sure.

See you then!

Herb