Third Annual Big Spring TX Fun Fly

[rdw777]

Hi Guys, it's time for our funfly in Big Spring again. It will be on March 19th and 20th this year and will be held in the Dorothy Garrett Coliseum at Howard College, 1001 Birdwell Lane. Flying will begin at 9:00 AM both days. I know there is an outdoor event this year in Sherman but unfortunatley these were the only dates available that the sports floor would be removed for our activities. There will be a $10.00 landing fee like last year to help pay for the cost of renting the building. Concessions will be open and the public will be invited to watch. AMA membership required. Vendors are welcome to set up shop. Vendors wishing to donate to a raffle are appreciated as in the past two years. Because of the landing fees, donations, vendor donations, and local club resources we are able to continue this event. ( The rent is $600.00 )

Here is a link to the coliseum; it has 90,000 sq ft and ceiling is about 50 feet high.

http://www.howardcollege.edu/big_spring/department/coliseum/coliseum.htm

The aircraft restictions in the past were ''280'' and smaller. This year our club has revised that to; 10 oz. AUW or less and two Li Po's ( or six nicads ) or less. All types of aircraft are welcome as long as they meet the criteria above. Aircraft outside these guidlines will be considered by the CD ( me ) but they must be docile.

This year we may do some fun stuff like limbo, ballon burst and anything else we can scheme up, no prizes, just fun, give me some ideas. The 3D guys asked me last year if they could bring some music to show off their routine, maybe we can arrange a few of these. The Big Spring Model Aircraft Association and I look forward to seeing past pilots and freinds again and welcome new folks to the event. I will answer any questions on this forum.

Robert

Local Motels;

Super 8 Motel
I-20 & HWY 87
Big Spring TX 79720
432 267 6919

Econo Lodge
HWY 87 & I-20
Big Spring TX 79720
432 263 5200
800 424 4777

Great Western Inn
2900 E I-20 & HWY 80
Big Spring TX 79720
432 267 4553

Holiday Inn Express
1109 N Aylesford
Big Spring TX 79720
432 253 5400

[sr71fan]

WooHoo!

Count me IN!

9 AM 'til midnight, right Robert? :D

Gotta go build some new planes.

Gary

[rdw777]

We'll fly as late as you want to Gary! Glad you are comming!

Robert

[fwilly]

It's now a 12 hour drive for me, according to mapquest. I'll make it if I can, but chances are slim.

I need to find out when spring break is around here.

[rdw777]

I hope you can make it Mike, we really enjoyed your flying last year! Also thanks for the input to help be build my first cd motor!

Robert

[Ed Couch]

Guess I'll pass this year although I wanted to and go to Sherman. Rules seem too restrictive on weight and battery requirements. Normally fly nothing over 10 ounces and two cells but a Slow Stik and my orinthopters come in about 16 ounces and I use a triple pack to haul up my little glider piggy back and also for the bird to get best performance. I know of several other flyers using three cell packs that normally would be coming as well that seem to be left out in the cold. Maybe next year. ed :(

[fwilly]

Aircraft outside these guidlines will be considered by the CD

Ed, Your stuff might get cleared for a few flights

I found out that spring break starts on same weekend as the event. Friday Mar. 18th, I have one class that ends at 11:15 AM. Now its just a question of transportation and hotel cost.

[Ed Couch]

Mikie, that may be true but it follows no guidelines set up by AMA or NIRAC on weights or battery limits which there has not been before. Don't want to get there and run into someones whems on what they feel should be flown indoors or not. This is not only me but almost all the 3D flyers fly their Tensors and other aerobatic aircraft on three cells. Lets take second look at the proposed rules or say thats it. I will not drive several hundred miles and have to ask permission prior to each models flights. I'm would only ask for a review of the requirements to be more in line with all the other indoor events we have been at over the years and there has been many.

Ed Couch
AMA 522
NIRAC 5

[rdw777]

Thanks for your comments Ed and Mike. Our club has tried to take a fair look to make the best possible flying conditions for the large variety electric aircraft that are capable of flying indoors. We feel the guidlines can include every type of flying that electric power is capable of. Honestly too, I am an employee of this college and I ''sold'' the event to our adminstration. I want it safe as possible while leaving a wide enough circle to accomodate performance aircraft. If it were just pilots it would be different but we have invited the public also. The college were is very sensitive to it's relation with the public therefore I will try and maximize saftey at this event. Your comments and input are respected.

Best Wishes

Robert

[Ed Couch]

I'll pass, rules set forth are too far outside normally accepted guidelines. For the record, over 15 (15 grams to 8 ounces) of my aircraft meet the criteria set forth and I planned on bringing only two that exceeded the limits. These rules prohibit a number of your former event pilots flying exceptional aircraft at your event. Again, I would ask for re-evaluation of your rules and a direct answer to the question put forward earlier. ed :confused:

[heliguy1232]

:D any helis allowed I have a shogun{speed 400} that i am itching to fly inside

[rdw777]

Ed; Sorry, I did not perceive a question but I'm sure your are referring to re-evlaluating the rules. We evaluated our guidlines before we sent the sanction in and will keep them for now. We looked at all of the types of flying and believe the rules can support them all. There are examples throughout ezone. I know this leaves alot of existing planes out and I truly regret that because I consider the guys that have came in the past friends. The decision was based purely on safety. You mentioned 3 D.... What does a three cell Tensor weigh? Other thee cell small 3 D weights? I ask this for my own education. You also mention NIRAC. I would not have a problem with NIRAC planes doing demos because they are docile. If I have not answered your question directly let me know.

Robert

[rdw777]

Heliguy; Helis are allowed if they weigh ten ounces or less and have a maximum of two li po cells or six nicads.

Robert

[4Kilo]

Robert,

Thanks for listing the aircraft limits in your original posting; you saved me a long drive. I have not flown any indoor aircraft which meet your requirements in several years (I don't even own any two cell LiPo packs anymore).

Pat

[madsci_guy]

Sorry, have to decline also. My JAR is 10.5 oz. And any rule that excludes Slow Sticks, and 280 powered Tiger Moths, but would allow my 5 oz. 50mph PCW, which would be real terror in a gym, has an obvious flaw. I too thank you for being up front, but I too would ask you to reconsider allowing obviously slow aircraft to also enter.

Would you really allow my PCW? It weighs 5 oz, and uses only two LiPoly.

-- Val

[Ed Couch]

Robert it amazes me you are not aware of NIRAC (The National Indoor Remote-Controlled Aircraft Council), its not a type of aircraft but a special interest group that is part of the AMA that set up the guidelines and monitors what is happening in the indoor community. The website is as follows: http://nirac.org/ . Within the site are a simple set of guidelines that flyers have used for a number of years. I would personally take a little time and see what the rest of the country is doing. I know you have received contact on this subject outside this thread and now I understand what has happened. Do your thing and have fun as again I see that the call for reconsideration is being ignored due to ignorance or lack of knowledge on ones part. The negative responsives you have been receiving here and through your personal emails are warrented without malice trying to correct a perceived problem.

Folks we tried. Enough said!

Ed Couch
AMA 522
NIRAC 5

[rdw777]

Val; I also have a five ounce airplane on two cells and close to fifty mph, of course I would not fly it inside. But these are perfect examples that performance can be had at this weight and power. That speed could be turned into torque very easliy and hover a light plane.

Ed; I generalized the term "NIRAC Plane" because the weight requirements are different for each type.

All;My wish for those that feel the change has been to drastic is try to look at it with an open mind. If high performance is important, it is acheivable within these guidlines. It also makes it more fair to folks with tiny stuff. I will still use common sense for this event. Obviously extreme speeds can happen within these too and we would not want to do that. Docile parkflyers can go over a little but present no big hazard. NIRAC events seem to be docile, I assume there are not many that would want to stage an event though, if there are let know what your intrests are. I intend to provide a nice atmosphere for all those that choose to come and we will have a lot of fun. If this sets a trend to enhance or decline the event, so be it.

Best Wishes

Robert

[MichaelConnally]

My first sorta Tesnor weighed 6.5 ounces. Current Tensor's generally weigh 8.5 to 9 ounces I think. Regardless... I will not be attending if 3 cells aren't allowed. FYI... none of my current planes weigh over 7.5 ounces.

Mike Connally
www.michaelconnally.com

[Ed Couch]

Folks I must apologise for this last message but the simple resolution here is to raise the weight limit to 16 ounces or less and drop any stipulation on battery. Limit motor size to the 350 can motor or brushless equal. Aircraft such as the Slow Stik and the Slow-V (approx 16 ounces on lite polly pack)are being flown with no problem indoors and in many ways fly much better than the earlier GWS smaller versions that got this whole thing going indoors. It would also allow a number of new aerobatic airframes that come in around 10 to 12 ounces to fly as well. Dropping the battery requirement would benefit all in allowing the electric motor to perform at its maximum level. Its not about speed but aerobatic and overall performance of the air vehicle. This is the normal basis of all indoor flight sessions being flown to my knowledge at this time.

Break the time up according to the number of aircraft and type flown if not comfortable flying with 3D and "Docile" aircraft in air at same time and base this on the number of each being flown. If you have three aircraft weighing less than an ounce, 40 aircraft that are slow flyers flying left hand circle and just enjoying the day and 20 full bore 3D aircraft break out the time accordingly. The minimum time goes to the lightweights with the docile birds get the majority of flying time and the 3D folks get approximately half of the slowflyers. Adjust the times as conditions change during the day. Special scale aircraft or unusual birds fly when a short halt is called just for that purpose but thats up to the CD when and where. As the majority of flyers have numerous aircraft in these catagories most will be able to fly throughout the whole day, for those that stay in one area the majority would have to rule. I personally don't care for time breaks but see no other way in many instances, again its the CD's job to find a liveable median for all.

We have all heard how nice of a facility the Big Spring event has and looked forward to the meet and would like to attend. All know the problems and tribulations that it takes to set up such a fly-in but with the constant evolution of the aircraft being flown at this time the rules set forth have proven too limiting to make the event possible for a large number of flyers.

Again, my apologies.

Ed

[madsci_guy]

Robert, I wish you well, and hope your event is a sucess.

-- Val

[kepople]

Robert;

I was having a tough time deciding which event to go to. For the last two years, one of my favorite things to do at your event was to fly my Slowstick slowly around the arena. Last year, I flew it for 26 minutes without touching the throttle in the same kidney shaped pattern. What a relaxing time. Your restriction will dissallow this activity. My Tensor is just over 10oz with all the CA repairs I made. This leaves me with only 1 indoor plane that will fit the criteria.

I appreciate your position with the school and we sure thank you for your efforts in getting this incredible facilty for the event, but has not the event been successfull the last two years? We sure thought it was and there were no safety problems that I am aware of were there?

Since I must do some planning for your event and the SHerman event is nearby, I am afraid, thats where I must play that weekend with these rules and restrictions.

Best Regards;
Kirby

[fwilly]

You mentioned 3 D.... What does a three cell Tensor weigh? Other thee cell small 3 D weights? I ask this for my own education.

I can do less than 5oz using a 3 cell with other designs. My little blue bipe I had last time flew on a 3 cell some of the time. I believe it was under 5oz (half the limit) with that pack.

The rules do seem a little flawed in the fact that they exclude some perfectly safe planes, but allow some questionable ones. All my stuff meets the guidlines, except my 8oz 3 cell heli. I'm still going to try to make it if I can. I'll bring the heli and see if it is one of the ones outside the guidlines that gets considered.

[Paul Willenborg]

Robert,

I drove down from Little Rock last year and had a wonderful time. It's a great site and was well worth the trip to get to fly there. However it's unlikely that I'll do it again this year with the restrictions you have placed on the aircraft weight and batteries.

Right now I have five flyable indoor aircraft and hope to have two more done by the time of the event. Only one would not be allowed under the new restrictions- my FTM F-86 Saber which is well under the weight limit but runs on three cells. My 4 oz. Acrobipe would still be allowed and it was one of the fastest models at the event last year, possibly faster than the F-86. I could probably change the motor in the F-86 and get nearly the same performance on two cells.

So why wouldn't I come? Simple- I don't go to an event like this just to fly. I want to see the widest variety of interesting models and see great flying by other pilots. The restrictions you've imposed have already caused Ed Couch and Mike Connally to back out. Just losing those guys two cuts out a lot of the best models and flying. And it looks like many other good pilots are thinking of not attending this year.

I can understand the weight limit, but the battery limitation makes no sense to me unless the intent was to simply eliminate the better performing aircraft. From a safety standpoint my recollection is that most of planes crashing into the pits, bleachers, and light fixtures were slow, light, and frequently underpowered.

I hope you'll reconsider the restrictions.

Paul

[Thomas B]

Robert, we realize that you are coming from a safety viewpoint here, but I also agree with the other flyers posting that your event has now become over-restrictive.

Safety is a most worthy pursuit, but there are small risks with any activity, even indoor models. I certainly thought that last year's event, which I enjoyed hugely, was perfectly safe with no weight or cell restrictions.

We just do not understand why you and your group have chosen such an arbitrary set of rules that are not used by any other US indoor event that I have ever heard of. Even the AMA does not restrict in this manner.

Please note that a box stock Ikarus Shockflyer specifies a 3 cell Lipo pack.

Your reasoning is that there will be spectators present in the stands. I think that with the caliber of indoor pilots today, a simple segregation into weight classes would be a better idea. How about 20 min of 3D, 20 minutes of sport and 20 minutes of sub 4 oz in each hour? If you are really worried, have all 3D models perform at midcourt or further away from the spectators

You might remember my FTM Gee Bee which flies so well indoors. It would be a non starter this year as it weighs 10.5 oz with two small Lipos. It has been flying indoors for more than two years, safely, during 25-30 events.

Now it is not eligible to fly, by your new rules.

Is there any body of evidence that shows that models over 10 oz or 3 cell Lipo models are indeed more likely to cause harm? If so, I am certainly not aware of it.

We use the restrictions Ed Couch mentions at our regular indoor sessions at the Lockheed Martin Recreation area. Rest assured that LMRA is highly safety conscious as well. We have as many as 20-30 spectators on a regular basis, crowded into the edges of our full court gym.

There have been no...none...zero...not a single accident involving injury to a spectator at more than 20 of our sessions, in a venue with a good bit less flying room that you have at Big Spring. I think it would be much more likely to have someone fall down the steep stairs in the stands than to be even slightly injured by a model weighing 16 oz or less, flying slowly.

If the rules remain the same, I will opt for the Sherman outdoor event. It is just not worth the drive if I cannot fly my 3 cell Jar, my 3 cell jet, my 3 cell Tribute or my 10.5 oz Gee Bee.

I would like to respectively and ernestly request that you do reconsider. All of the flyers that have been there before weighing in here love the event, love the site and enjoyed your fine hospitality and looked forward to more.

Judging by the response here, at least a dozen flyers and 40-50 models will not be making the long drive from the DFW this year unless the rules are reconsidered. I think that was around half your attendance last year.

[rdw777]

Michael C. Thanks for posting specs for what you fly. Hope you'll come after reading below.

Ed; no need to apologize to me at all. You have just been banging the drum for what you beleive is right and on behalf of your flying group. I really hoped you would jump on this because I new you had several that would fit the guidlines. Your accomplishments are most respected.

Mike F. Thanks for the positive outlook!

Paul; I agree a lot with what you say, especially wanting to see the wide variety that could be at a meet like this. That's the best part! You have also underscored that performance can be had under the original guidlines.

All ; I did my best researching of all areas of indoor electric to make sure everything could be represented. I knew it would leave out a lot of existing planes. I had hoped there would be a lot that would fit in and we could still make a decent showing. I especially wanted to be sure we did not step on 3 D to hard because it is so popular and it surley is a crowd pleaser, jets too. I really thought most could do that on two cells. I admit not being expert in that area but you have enlighted me. So I have called AMA and ammendend the cell requirment to three li po's or nine ni cads ( I doubt folks are using ni cads but need to list it anyway ). I kept the ten ounces but will surely consider docile aircraft. I'm sure Ed's glider tug, Gary's B - 36 and probably Thomas's GB and others are '' docile ''. The meet is on the AMA calender but has not reflected the changes yet but must be sanctioned now.

You gotta realize too guys folks approached me last year with stuff that was entirley inappropriate. Large helicopters with ten sub c's, Speed 400 war birds, Goofy Chickens ( or what ever that thing is ). It's hard to get your arms around a criteria that I belive is appropriate for our facility and not ruffle some some feathers. I will admit I was lacking in judgement on the three cell thing.

So there it is; three cells - ten ounces and overweight must be docile.

If I have not riled you up to much I look forward to those that will attend. If you have questions let me know. A couple more things; We will not be able to get in Friday night due to a concert but will stay till to we fall asleep if you want on Sat and Sun.
Last year we said max five planes in the air at a time, I think that's good.

Your Friend

Robert

[Paul Willenborg]

Robert,

Thanks SO much! I think that you've made a very reasonable compromise that will allow a much wider variety of planes. Your event is back on my calendar!

Paul

[Ed Couch]

I'm easy! I can live with it with the understanding there will be air vehicles over 10 ounces present.

ed

[madsci_guy]

Thanks Robert. Those rules certainly are very fair.

Now I gotta cut some holes in my JAR :eek:

Aww, what the heck, I need to retire the thing and make a new one anyway.

Thanks again. -- Val

[Thomas B]

Robert, many thanks for the modification to the requirements. We appreciate being heard. I will be thee for sure, since my models will now be allowed to fly.

I think one thing we were all trying to avoid is starting a new slippery slope where a set of new indoor requirements might be the start of a strangle hold on the creativity and fun and freedom we now enjoy with the generally accepted rules of 350 class motor or less and 16 oz or less. We have found that most indoor models in the 12-14 oz class are Slow Sticks or slo Vs or similar that are proven safe to fly indoors.

We realize that you can tune a lot of two cell Lipo setups for high performance, but many of us have great flying three cell models that would have required reworking, re-proping and changing, just for this one event, had the requirements not changed.

We will now return to spreading the excitement over the event in a good way...;),

[rdw777]

I feel soooooooooooo much better. I was really wrestling with this and last thing I wanted to do was alienate you guys. But you kind of see my veiw point whether being right or wrong. The future of this depends on all of us and one screw up could kill it. One request: Most all of you that have contacted me I know are excellent pilots and builders. Help me by watching for those situations/planes/pilots that could lead to something we do not want.

You know rules were mentioned several times over the last few days and nobody likes them, it's nice to free do whatever you want. This is pretty abstract compared to indoor electric but you know when organized auto racing started years ago it was pretty much run what you brung. Technology advanced power output so much that rules had to be put in place to keep it safe. Engines had to get smaller, tracks were made smoother, etc, etc.

Robert

[Ed Couch]

Robert, the problem will come from the unexpected area most likely. I have and other have mentioned that the most problem comes from the short timer flying a simple airframe and just gets lost in the excitement. We fly mechanical devices which will fail eventually but the more experienced pilots will normally react in the proper manner. You will always have a few fools and thats up to all of us to watch for and believe me we do.

May I suggest on the question of spectators. Make dang sure the seating section for them is behind the pilots line. In an arena with 360 degree seating around the floor they should be controlled to sit only behind the pilots. It just to easy to push out the flight path to overfly the seating and it opens you up to a problem in case of a mechanical failure in flight. Situation Awareness is super critical for the flyers as most pilots seem to lose awareness of the other flyers and can only see the little bit of sky their bird is in. Its a learned art to know where the other craft are and most just never pick up the nack.

As you probably figured out by now I have opinions based off many things but most off the school of hard knocks and 50 plus years of flying these little toy airplanes. On safety I give no quarter and I'm a firm believer in one man control of a contest. It's got to be that way to make things run smooth. We fought a good battle and was able to come to a compromise that all of us can live with, now its up to you as CD and us as flyers to make things happen. Look forward to the time, will be in town that Friday night and plan to have a ball. Thanks again for listening to this old crumudgeon.

Respectfully Yours

Ed Couch
AMA 522
NIRAC 5

[Thomas B]

...............
You know rules were mentioned several times over the last few days and nobody likes them, it's nice to free do whatever you want. This is pretty abstract compared to indoor electric but you know when organized auto racing started years ago it was pretty much run what you brung. Technology advanced power output so much that rules had to be put in place to keep it safe. Engines had to get smaller, tracks were made smoother, etc, etc.

Robert

Robert, I think all involved here understands the need for rules and not a single one of us wants a crazy free for all out in your fine flying site. I and the others respect your personal responsibility and involvment in making this superb site available for our use.

The issue is not one of us wanting no rules. The issue is us wanting the same type of rules that we have been building and flying successfully and perfectly safely under for years, now.

Your site is safer than most indoor venues by virtue of the great volume of space available.

I and many others are of the opinion that the basic rules of nothing more than 16 oz and nothing more than a 300 class motor are safe and workable for the vast majority of flying sites. We felt strongly that making the rules more stringent than this (no three cell packs and nothing over 10 oz) would make a large number of models ineligible and not make things any safer, other than by the questionable effect of having a large number of models not attend.

Again, thanks for hearing us and thanks for accomodations.

[CAFplanekid]

Cool, so far my baseball scedule will allow me to attend both days.

Im glad the 2-cell rule was changed, I was feeling really bummed out reading through the thred untill I got to that part! So Im guessing my 28 ounce photo SlowStick wont be allowed in? O well, I can get a pic of the arena from a few hundred feet :)

Jonathan Huseman

[sr71fan]

FiddleSticks! I had it all figured out...how to get a gazillion little tiny one and two-cell planes into my car for the trip to Big Spring. Now, Y'all went and spoiled all my planning. DRAT! I don't think I'll go now. !%$#@?!

Joking, of course. VBG (couldn't get smiles to work)

Gary

WooHoo!! 8-)

[CAFplanekid]

Robert: I just had an idea, maybe you could talk to the college people and see if they would trade some good aerial photographs of the college, the stadiums and main buildings and such for the rental fee. I would be happy to do a photoshoot to help all the electric flyers out, we could use the saved money for raffle prizes or whatever. If you think it could work, I can email you a few pictures I have taken to show them what I do, I do really pretty good work and usually get 200 a job, for a single subject, so I think it would be a fair trade if they are interested. And if they aren't interested in a trade, put in a good word for me anyways and maybe I could get some business out of it too.

My plane with video downlink and video glasses, and a pic of a huge school we all fly at (everybody who was here for the CAF fly-in and flew that night, this is where we were)

Jonathan

[rdw777]

Thanks for the kind comments guys!

Hey Jonathan; you got it goin on there! Bring your rig and sample photos to the meet if you can. There should be some administrators there to show your work to. We are starting construction on a new Performing Arts Center in the near future, might be cool to have photos as it's going up.

Robert

[CAFplanekid]

Sure, I will bring it out to the fly-in, along with my portfolio of sample pictures.

Jonathan

[ronin8451]

Man, I was all set to come and I just saw the dates were the same as the Pro Bro event in Houston ! Dangit ! I already have my hotel set up too. You guys have fun !

Rick

[kepople]

Popular weekend. There were 3 others to choose from in march...Guess all great minds think alike.

Kirby

[Thomas B]

Just 8 weeks or so until Big Spring........

Anyone bringing anything new and cool?

[madsci_guy]

My 20 lb F7F Tigercat :eek:

-- Val

[fwilly]

Easter Jeep Safari is also going on at the same time.

[Ed Couch]

Thought I'd kick this up a notich. I hope everyone is getting ready for the meet. I finally got someone to work the last two hockey games for me here in Cowtown and will be coming up late Friday or early Saturday morning. Will be bringing a car full of birds to fly and might even have a couple of new birds to yank and bank with. Added a couple of Fieago 12 mm brushless motors and a pair of P10 ESCs to my contra-rotating test rig and gained at least 30 percent greater power. Hovering at 50 percent power with no torque to fight is a real hoot. Working on constant speed rig and plan on putting it on a Shock-Flyer YAK (first kit I've bought in long time but don't have time to scratch and do everything else that needs to be done. Get things going and lets have a blast.

ed

[fwilly]

So far its looking like I will get to go. I should have a 30" proud bird, a Mini R3D with a sweet light system, and hopefully a heli. I'll try to get some other stuff going too, but I'm not sure what I'll have time to get done.

[rdw777]

Ed; I look forward to seeing you and your planes. Sounds very interesting.

You too Mike; your flying is always a crowd pleaser.

I've gotten into wings. Check it out.

http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?t=338637

Don't know if it will go inside, I'll try it and see how I do before the meet.

Robert

[bselman]

Robert,

Sorry to say I won't be able to make it this year. Our local club is having a big indoor meet the same weekend. :( :)

Maybe next year!

Bob

[rdw777]

Sorry you can't make it Bob. We enjoyed you and Gary coming the past couple of years. I wanted to show you my bit car plane. It flys pretty good for crude controls. Like you say, maybe next year! Enjoy your meet.

Robert

[madsci_guy]

Robert, are we going to have AC power available for charging? Thanks! -- Val

[rdw777]

Sure Val;There will be plenty of of receptacles along the wall and some show power cords that we will string out. I recommend that you bring a short cord or two to be sure you can reach. Look forward to seeing you.

Robert

[Ed Couch]

Attendees, where we going to be staying? Need to make reservations.

ed

[Thomas B]

Ed, Richard Ng is getting us rooms at the same place we stayed last year, which is about the best there is in town. Call us Monday.

Heading out in two weeks!

[MichaelConnally]

Tom,
Refresh my memory. Where is that?

Mike

[Richard N]

Mike and Ed,

Tom, Paul, and I are staying at the Comfort Inn, 2900 E. I-20 ,
Big Spring, TX, US, 79720
Phone: (432) 267-4553 Fax: (432) 267-4553

This is the closest motel to the Dorthy Garrett Coliseum. Use the link below for a reservation on our dates. The best rate under "Select Rate Program" is Internet User's Rate. Their AAA rate was more than $15 a night higher.

Richard

http://www6.choicehotels.com/ires/en-US/html/HotelInfo?sid=YqfP.bEX72gm_Pg.6&hotel=TX617&sarea=19875&sname=Big+Spring&sstate=TX&scountry=US&sradius=40.22&slat=32.25027847290039&slon=-101.47833251953125&schain=CI&exp=&scity=Big+Spring&sort=&month=3&day=18&depart_month=3&depart_day=20&srp=STD

[MichaelConnally]

Thanks

[Thomas B]

See you there, Mike.

Just got my DWE foamie 19" P-38 flying very nicely today on fairly stock stuff, at 2.6 oz. Now I have something flighter-like to fly when the 4oz and under stuff has the air at Big Springs...;)

[jnowell]

I'll see you guys there also! Thomas, I have a 3 ounce Mustang that will form up nicely with your P-38, but only if you'll fly escort for my B-29 (if i get it ready in time).

Looking forward to seeing everyone again, it's been a while.

Jason

[Ed Couch]

Reservations made for 18th and 19th. See ya there and thanks Tom for information as it did save a few bucks.

Jason, look forward to seeing you again as its been a while since you went to tornado alley.

ed

[sr71fan]

Less than two weeks to go!! Can't wait! WooHoo!!! Gary

[rdw777]

I'm getting anxious too! The sanction lists 9:00 as the start time but I'll go in about 7:00 or so to start setting up things cause we can't get in the night before due to a concert. What do you all think about some fun fly kind of stuff like limbo, ballon burst, and another event or two? I also told the guys that are serious about 3 D to bring their music to show off their routine. Everyone like this idea too? I'm thinking mostly free air time with a few breaks for events like these. Look forward to seeing you all.

Robert

[madsci_guy]

Mmmmmmmmmmmm........ Limbo!

Those ideas sound great! Anybody going to bring a reversing prop? I'm working on one, but I doubt it'll be ready, not that I could fly the thing yet! :eek:

If you want help setiing up, let us know when and where. Knowing Gary, he will be out there flying in the parking lot at 7:00 anyway :rolleyes:

- Val

[CAFplanekid]

I can bring some helium, im not sure how much is left but should be enough for a dozen balloons at least. Free air time sounds good to me.

Did you happen to have a chance to mention AP work to the university for me?

[Ed Couch]

You bet ya, constant speed VPP unit on Shockey YAK-54. Like the idea of a few simple contest as well. Will also have brushless contra-rotating rig on my test vehicle to play with, over six hours flying time with no problems so far. May also have time to mount on little Convair XFY-1 Pogo if possible. Also, will have a few other unusal air vehicles just for kicks to play with. Birdie (great white bird) will be coming along as well. ;)

ed

[fwilly]

I like the idea of some contests!!

[birdie_in_texas]

You bet ya, constant speed VPP unit on Shockey YAK-54. Like the idea of a few simple contest as well. Will also have brushless contra-rotating rig on my test vehicle to play with, over six hours flying time with no problems so far. May also have time to mount on little Convair XFY-1 Pogo if possible. Also, will have a few other unusal air vehicles just for kicks to play with. Birdie (great white bird) will be coming along as well. ;)

ed


"great white Bird"..? hahahah :)

wish i could make it...there may a miracle take place and i get to go, but it would be on proportions of the Red Sea etc...:(

[rdw777]

Sounds good guys; thanks for the offer to help set up, shouldn't be a whole lot to it. Sounds like everyone would like a simple fun fly events or three.

Jonathan; I mentioned your photography capabilities to some of the administrators and I'm sure they would like to see what you got. Bring a few samples. We do have a construction project going on they might be interested in some airial shots.
I think the local Walmart has helium but please bring what you got if you don't mind. We'll use ours first if I can find it. I'll also get the ballons.

Robert

[MichaelConnally]

Robert,
How is the time going to be divided this year? I'm hoping it won't be 30/30 like last year since there were 5 times as many 4+ ounce planes as smaller ones. Maybe 45/15 or none at all. It has been my experience that if there aren't restrictions on when people can fly... there are usually less people in the air at any one time.

Just curious,
Mike

p.s. I will be bringing the following:
27" combat outtaround
Fatty Sparrow
Ray
47" BOmb CAT
32" Proud Bird
Equalizer
TBD

[Ed Couch]

Birdie

I really do have a Slow Hawk (orinthopter) that happens to be white. Gotch Ya!

[rdw777]

Mike; I think we should set it up for free flying time for all except for maybe the funfly stuff we do and possibly if anyone wants to show off their 3 D routine. I don't think we will have too many micro flyers. However if an army of them showed up we would want to give them fair time.

I recognize some of your planes you listed and others I do not. As long as they fit post # 25 they will be fine.

Look forward to seeing you.

Ed; I look forward to your flapping machine, I'm starting to get interested in something like this.

Robert

[MichaelConnally]

Perfect! I can't wait.

mike

[Highlander]

Hey Fellas!

Finally got around to finding this thread!
Man, what a soap opera read. :rolleyes: Glad everyone are now friends again, for it sounds like we have a great time ahead of us.

Well, the Lubbock boys are coming. Barry (of My Hobby Shop, Lubbock, TX) and I will be setting up shop with lots of goodies and bringing our own planes to join in the fun. I can't wait to get some stick time on my newly redesign "Brit Stick"! :D

I have to admit, my first indoor event was the Midland event at the CAF hanger last summer. It was hot, but definately fun. I expect you guys in Big Springs are very hospitable as well. Looking forward to it! :D In fact, I can't wait!!!

As for event ideas:

Musical Chairs: Set up two pylon cones at each end of the facility. A group of 5 or 6 planes (I dunno, maybe more if you dare) fly a race track pattern around the cones to music. A guy not looking at the planes turns off the music and the last one to land within the two cones is out. Just use three judges look at the landings so we don't hack anyone off again :rolleyes: !

Spot Landing: Flyers get three attempt to land (main wheel touchdown only) in a five foot circle. Qualifiers then proceed to a four, then three, then two , then one foot circle. Lets see if you can land on a quarter, Robert! :eek:

Crepe Paper Limbo: Pretty self explanatory

Crepe Paper Cutting: Fly in an (obstacle course) bagging four or five horizontally (maybe vertically?) strung strands of crepe paper over a single race track pattern lap. Get them all and the quickest time wins.

Most Loops in Fifteen Seconds: Just count 'em. The most wins.

Quickest & Slowest Takeoff - Single Lap - Landing: Start behind a line on the ground, takeoff, fly around two upright (balloon line) pylons, land after crossing the line you started from and come to a complete stop. Who's the fastest and the slowest? (you have to stay airborne on your lap!)

Barral Racing: Just like they do it at the rodeo! Set up three balloon line pylons in a triangle. Start on the ground from a standstill behind a line. Fly the barral racing pattern and cross the finish line and land! Yeeeee Haaaaw!
Now if wee could only figure out how to do steer wrestling! :confused:

I'd love to find some ways to get the spectators involved!!! Any ideas???

BTW, everyone put September 10th on their calendars. Looks like the First Annual WINGS Miniature Aircraft Society, Lubbock, E-Fun Fly (Outdoors) is in the works. I'll be post the official announcement soon. We are working on a potentially BIG event at our awesome Reese AFB flying facility! Will be AMA sanctioned and a GREAT time! :D

See ya'll in a couple of weeks!

Bryan

[MichaelConnally]

Just for the record.... I love limbo! Spot landing sounds like a lot of fun too, and it's something all skill levels can try.

Mike

[madsci_guy]

[U]Quickest & Slowest Takeoff


The slowest would take a full battery :rolleyes:


I'd love to find some ways to get the spectators involved!!! Any ideas???


A William Tell event comes to mind :eek:

-- Val

[Highlander]

The slowest would take a full battery :rolleyes:



A William Tell event comes to mind :eek:

-- Val

(Slowest) Yeah, I suppose the 3D guys would have an advantage there! :o

(William Tell) He, he, he... I'll bring the apples! :eek:

Bryan

[Highlander]

Mike and Ed,

Tom, Paul, and I are staying at the Comfort Inn, 2900 E. I-20 ,
Big Spring, TX, US, 79720
Phone: (432) 267-4553 Fax: (432) 267-4553

This is the closest motel to the Dorthy Garrett Coliseum. Use the link below for a reservation on our dates. The best rate under "Select Rate Program" is Internet User's Rate. Their AAA rate was more than $15 a night higher.

Richard

http://www6.choicehotels.com/ires/en-US/html/HotelInfo?sid=YqfP.bEX72gm_Pg.6&hotel=TX617&sarea=19875&sname=Big+Spring&sstate=TX&scountry=US&sradius=40.22&slat=32.25027847290039&slon=-101.47833251953125&schain=CI&exp=&scity=Big+Spring&sort=&month=3&day=18&depart_month=3&depart_day=20&srp=STD


Richard:

Thanks for the info! What a great rate on a hotel room! :)

Bryan

[fwilly]

Does anyone that will be passing through Weatherford on the return trip want to take on a hitch hiker? My original plans for transportation fell through, and now I need a ride. I'll cover gas for the trip.

[Thomas B]

Events can be fun, but if I get an opinion, they should not markedly reduce the amount of free and open flying that most people are coming out for.

Events that can be run without stopping open flying would be the best.

[jnowell]

Fwilly,

I'm up in Wichita Falls right now working for Pratt & Whitney, but Weatherford isn't too far out of my way. If no-one local can take you, I'll go a bit out of my way just to watch you fly! I'm bettin' one of the locals will come through, but if not, just let me know. I should have a fair amount of extra space in the car for planes. I'll bring some bungie cords so we can strap you to the top if we run out of space :D

Jason

[fwilly]

If no-one local can take you, I'll go a bit out of my way just to watch you fly!

Thanks!! I guess I better put on a good show:D

[jnowell]

Darn right you better. I'm bringing a bunch of stuff that only the locals have seen. Here's a partial pic of my fleet that I hope will be coming. F.S. F-16 w/ CDR motor in fan, twin ATR-27 looking thing from Balsa Products converted to miro RC, 24" P-51 from AeroMicro, Shockie of course, a ressurected Pop-Fly from EAM, and a B-29 if it gets finished this weekend (the motors are in transit from Balsa Products). I'll also have an Acro Bipe and a Blade Runner heli that aren't pictured here.

See you all there!

Jason

[Highlander]

Nice looking fleet, Jason!

[madsci_guy]

Now if Michael brings his Pop-Fly we can have races. Re-motored mine with a Feiago 12mm. :D

-- Val

[rdw777]

Bryan; Thanks for posting the ideas for events. We will surley want to do some of these.

Thomas B; I bet the time spent on events will not take to much out of free flying. If an event has only one or a few plane up it should not impact free time. If there is a swarm up during an event we may want to let it settle a bit.

Looks like a little excitment building, I know I'm getting anxious. Look forward to seeing you all.

Robert

[MichaelConnally]

Val,
My popfly is retired, but I'm bringing my oor combat :)

Mike

[Thomas B]

rdw777, how many events are planned, do you think?

I confess that I kinda hate driving a long ways to an event and then sitting around waiting for an event to be over with so that free flying can resume.

But a little bit never hurts. We always tried to keep the indoor pylon races very short and sweet. With 6 models, we could run a multi heat race in 5 minite bits scattered around the day.

This year I have 4-5 sub 4 oz models ready to go, to make use of the small model time scheduled.

[Wtxeflyer]

Robert.
As CD, I think you should run as you see fit.
There is going to be an awful lot of free flying time spread out over two days.
I drove to DEAF from Midland and flew probably less than 2 hrs, but it was well worth it!

[aerolite]

Wtxeflyer, when are you heading over to Big Spring, and what are you bringing? Mini ifo

[CAFplanekid]

Wtxe and mini: do I know you guys? I bet so, but cant place the e-names with the faces, though I have an idea. I am the guy with the photo plane out at Abell every once and a while.


I think events are a great feature and am looking forward to it.

Jonathan

[Wtxeflyer]

Hi Dennis, and Jonathan..
Right now, I am bringing a Lazymoth (cd rom motor lets it hover) MAE Slick, Mini Gee Bee. If I can get it flying, I will bring an autogyro(big if). I may break down and get my mini IFO going.
I think events would also be a blast considering we have never had any in the past. If they go well, we will definately have them in July at the CAF Fun Fly.
I hope to get to Big Spring around 7 Saturday morning.

[CAFplanekid]

I wish I still had my Mini IFO, but this summer i needed some money quick and had to sell it :(

Dennis: you wouldnt happen to still have that Tiny X kit for sale, would you? If so, I would like to buy or trade something for it if I can get it soon, no baseball after Tuesday for a week so I would have time to build it for this weekend. Thanks,
Jonathan


edit: not sure what I will bring, other than my photo plane. I will have some stuff to sell too. I will be there around 7 I guess.

[rdw777]

Thomas; I imagine the number of events will be around three.....maybe a few more. I don't think they will take a significant amount away from the overall flight time. Look forward to seeing you.

Robert

[fwilly]

Just finished up my Mini Revolution. Looks like that and my Proud bird will be all I'll have.

http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?t=297123&page=30&pp=15

[aerolite]

[Dennis: you wouldnt happen to still have that Tiny X kit for sale, would you? If so, I would like to buy or trade something for it if I can get it soon, no baseball after Tuesday for a week so I would have time to build it for this weekend. Thanks,
Jonathan]

Yes I do! give me a call. Sorry this is coming late, I'm still learning how this all works. I also have a roll of blue SOLITE to include for the covering.

[rdw777]

The MR looks interesting Mike. Look forward to seeing it limbo inverted! Just kidding you can go verted if you want.

Robert

[madsci_guy]

Just test flew the brushless EDF Superflea this morning. What a blast! The Feigao motor and the EDF40 are a real winning combination!

I was wondering. I should be getting in at about 7PM Friday or so. Is there a park where we can night fly? Thanks!

See you guys Saturday.

-- Val

[Wtxeflyer]

I think Robert flies his planes beside the football stadium. It is right next to the coliseum. It is grass. The coliseum has a HUGE parking lot. I dont know if it would be condusive to a model without landing gear..

[madsci_guy]

Thanks. I can always catch the Pop Fly.

-- Val

[MichaelConnally]

always?

:) mike

[madsci_guy]

Sure. If I can't remember how many times I've dropped it, it's just like never dropping it at all, right? :rolleyes:

[rdw777]

Val; The parking lot on the east side of our coliseum is OK for flying in there is a little traffic that uses it for a thru street you have to watch for. My favorite place to fly is about a couple of blocks farther east. Turn off of Birdwell onto Kentucky Way and pass a very tall antenna for a TV station east of the football field near the colieum. There's a road a little farther east that turns back to the right (south) to where our college soft ball feild and little leauge base ball practice fields are. Check that area out if you want to fly some that evening. It's kind of out of traffics way. I'll try to catch you there!

Robert

[madsci_guy]

Thanks! I'll try to be there 7-8-ish It's over a five hour drive from where I am, so traffic makes a big difference in time. Look for the wing in the night sky. :D