JANUARY RC CLUB FLYERS
PILOT SPEAK By Ray Ihlenburg
R/C Flyers
By Ray Ihlenburg
What are those big orange yard flags? They are windsocks. We have three orange (one is orange and white) windsocks at the field. These are the most reliable local indicators of the prevailing wind direction and by understanding their position, one can estimate the wind velocity. When extended horizontal, the wind speed is at least 17 mph. We like to see them at one-quarter to one-half extended indicating the winds are between 3 and 7 mph, respectively.
What is that little mushroom looking thing on that pole? That is the Tempest weather station that provides the conditions at the field to club members phones. This includes temperature, wind speed and direction forecasts, relative humidity, etc. It is very convenient to check the temperature, wind direction and velocity from home.
Are those cameras? Sure are. They provide for security and so that members can view the field conditions from home. Very helpful on foggy mornings.
What are Model Retrieval Bags? Those are large black plastic bags that help to collect and deliver crash debris to the dumpster.
Do they crash often? Usually just once.
Can you fix them? Depends on the crash.
Are they easy to fly? Yes, with an instructor. The Club has a cadre of instructors that are dedicated to training new pilots. This is absolutely the fastest (and cheapest) way to learn.
How much do they cost? Initially, less than golf clubs but more than a bat. Club members, especially an instructor, can make sound recommendations to a new pilot.
Where will the new field be located? The new field will be located about 2 miles (as the crow flies) north of the existing field. There will be a paved access with a good chance for water service for irrigation and power for lights, fans, charging stations and the essentials we presently must use solar power to operate.
The existing field will remain in operation, but some of the structures might be moved as construction of the new field progresses. This is good news as the Spring Fly In is tentatively scheduled for April 18. More information will be published when the details are firm.
Another date to save is the Club Fare scheduled for February 19 at the Cultural Center. The Club will have a number of models on display and of course, the hands-on display will be there so anyone can get the feel of the ‘sticks’.
We have recently welcomed a number of new members to the club. If you have been thinking of joining our club and learning to fly, and made a New Year’s Resolution to visit our website at otowrcflyers.com; come out to the field and talk with one of our members; and attend a club meeting at 9:00 am on the first Monday of each month in the Event Room next to the Woodshop.
“Fly Good and Land Better”