AeroFest '05 A Gathering of Giants

This is a special year for AMPS – a year in which our organization took sole possession of our flying facility. We now own our field outright. For anyone that has been involved in the hobby for an extended period of time, this is quite an accomplishment and one that is uncommon, especially occurring within an urban area like South Florida. Another fact is that we are recognized internationally by the International Miniature Aircraft Association (IMAA), AMA, and the many model aviation leaders throughout the state. In addition, many noticeable differences were made this year in preparation for AeroFest 05’ and the many activities AMPS conduct throughout the year.

Newly appointed Field Engineer Bob Cox, has made a significant impact on field improvements and in preparing the property for our modeling guests. Beautifully formed concrete pilot stations and shrub barriers now line our runways, along with a concrete pad that can support two Port-O-John units. Remember the rotted well pump cover located on the West end of the main runway? Not only was it unsightly, but a serious safety hazard for person and plane. Bob demolished the existing structure, rebuild the underground vault and installed an impervious ABS utility box flush with the runway surface. Great job Bob!

Another significant difference in preparing for AeroFest this year was the utilization of new members for various field duties. As everyone is aware of, new members are obligated to perform 8 hours of AMPS service within their first year of membership. This newly–adopted rule worked quite well in providing the necessary manpower required to conduct an event such as AeroFest. I am proud to say that all 16 individuals I contacted arrived exactly on time and willingly accepted their assigned duties.

Lastly, our judging criteria and scoring methodology was revamped. With Rick Pellecchia implementing his newly-designed system, the task of scoring, tallying votes and determining winners has now become a very accurate and efficient process.

So, the day has arrived. The day in which AeroFest event officials eagerly anticipated – Saturday, AeroFest 05’. The field was prepared, drinks iced, public address made operational, Port-O’-John’s in place and event volunteers had their assignments. All volunteers grabbed their cup of coffee, a muffin or some of the delicious cookies baked by Marilynn Hogan, and headed to their assignments.

Dust started forming at the access road, as pilots with trailers began to arrive at 8:00AM. Once situated, they were greeted by Loretta Westphal and Sue Luss. Loretta drives up from the Keys each year to assist in our AeroFest event and wears many different hats throughout the day – the registration hat, finance hat, raffle hat, concession hat and the clean-up hat. For several hours Loretta and Sue kept busy with distributing the necessary pilot forms, accepting fees and providing the pilot packages. Every registered pilot received a pilot package which consisted of a complimentary lunch coupon, building adhesives, photo of themselves w/ airplane, and a raffle ticket. Gracious donations by Frank Tiano of FTE and Warrick Hobby Superstore, allowed each pilot and event staff member to receive a complimentary bottle of CA glue.

Immediately after registration, pilots were directed to have their photo taken by Steve and Melissa Salony. Utilizing digital imagery, and a really cleaver printer provided by Charlie Driggers, Steve and Melissa were able to print full color photos without the use of a personal computer as required in previous years. This really simplified the process and we hope to use this method for future AeroFest events.

All transmitters were then impounded into the station by Paul Giardelli, Gus Garcia and Jim Blinko. Working in harmony, these guy’s assured all frequencies were properly allocated. Of course, the adverse weather made the operation a little smoother than in previous years. Never-the-less, these guys did a great job, as they do each year at AeroFest.

Pilots were then asked to have their aircraft inspected. Recently, the IMAA has adopted self-inspection guidelines which simplify the inspection process. Basically each pilot will perform their individual inspection, thus determining their plane’s flight readiness. Our inspection staff of Chris Hogan, John Mitchell, Bill Bishop and Tom Caldwell simply asked questions pertaining to charged batteries, cracked propellers, loose hinges and the use of an external-mounted kill switch. Signing and collecting forms completed the inspection process.

Before any flying got underway, and as in previous years, we were greeted by a visit from Bob Musgrove and the members of the Light Aircraft Flyers Association (LAFA). Based out of South Dade, this group of ultralight and experimental aircraft pilots regularly attends many aviation exhibitions throughout South Florida, displaying their aircraft and promoting the flying of their specialized machines. AMPS provided an area so that LAFA members could park their aircraft and enjoy the festivities of AeroFest.

In addition, we also had the privilege to provide parking space for the South Florida Blood Mobile. Throughout the day, many club members and spectators visited this portable lab and offered their donation.

Despite a strong Southerly wind, estimated at 25 knots, flying got underway, and would you believe it, PT-19’s. Yes, several of the warbird modeler’s representing the Condor’s R/C club in Coral Springs, took to the skies with these 83” W.W.II Army trainers. Talk about interesting take-off and landings! Despite the strong winds, these guy’s really entertained the crowd with their hovering abilities.

This, and all other activities taking place, was described to the audience by our former President Wally Crichton, who has been behind the microphone for many of AMPS events. With his vast sense of aviation knowledge and his ability to paint a verbal picture, Wally keeps everyone’s attention peaked. Unfortunately, next month, we will be losing Wally to some lucky R/C club in Jefferson City, Tennessee. It will certainly be a challenge for anyone who fills his shoes. Of course none of Wally’s commentating would be possible if member Mike Piotrowski and son James, hadn’t provided their super-dooper (and quiet) generator, along with all the necessary electrical supplies. Interesting enough, upon initial power-up, we noticed several P/A speakers were out of order. AMPS member Rick Socarras stepped up to diagnose faulty audio transformers, made repairs, and in short time everything was operational.

Several more flights would occur that morning despite horrendous cross winds. The decision to switch runways was agreed upon by all pilots and AeroFest officials, so with some shuffling of trailers and vehicles, everything moved smoothly.

Leo Sellos then took to the skies with one of his two models, a 92” Laser, followed by his Cessna 172. Leo did a fabulous job handling the winds. Ivan Gutierrez from West Palm Beach, had a quick flight with his 118” Carden Extra 330S. It’s powered by a twin-cylinder 3W-150 engine, in which, if conditions are right, really pulls this model through its many aerobatic maneuvers. Paul Tirone, from Broward County, didn’t fare so well though. His Top Flight P-51 snapped into the ground due to aggressive elevator throws and minimal air speed. Larry Manka from the Coral Springs Condor club flew an attractive 96” Monocoupe 90A, along with AMPS member Tom Caldwell, who flew his 86”, clipped-wing J-3 Cub. Tom’s Cub is powered by an O.S. 120 Surpass engine, which he’s been flying for over fifteen years. We then had Condor member’s Doug Smith, Paul Rice and Jonathan Huttenlocher repeating their earlier PT-19 flying demonstrations. Again, with the winds howling, this was a spectacle to observe. Raul Arrese gave us a brief 3-D demonstration with his 40% Extra. At 126”, this is quite a model to observe performing those low-level 3-D maneuver’s. Unfortunately his engine choked, so Raul was not able to thrill the audience with his flying talents during halftime.

Because weather conditions were quickly deteriorating, AeroFest officials decided to accelerate the event and begin the halftime activities earlier than expected. All spectators were invited to come onto the runway and observe the pilot’s models. In addition, they were asked to fill out a “People’s Choice” ballot which identifies their favorite plane, for whatever reason they chose. In past year’s, we’ve noticed they usually go for the scale or warbird models, especially if it has exposed guns or bombs. This theory would hold true again as Broward County’s Mike Haspas won the People’s Choice award with his aggressive-looking Grumman F-7F TigerCat. An all-composite kit from ModAire, this twin–engine fighter spans 120”, weights 53 lbs. and utilizes two Brison 5.8 cu.in gas engines. Unfortunately it did not fly, but I have witnessed it in flight and it is quite a sight to behold!

With noontime upon us, the concession area really started to heat up! Our usual master cook, Richard Ferrer, and his daughter Stephanie, along with Rosy Roque, Rodrigo Mattevi, Khabeer Mustapha, Charlie Driggers and Ethel Bishop really were pressed to deliver food in short order. Surprisingly, we sold hundred’s of hamburgers and hot dogs. Had the weather been nicer, I‘m confident all the beverages would have been sold also. Never-the-less, AeroFest Officials were extremely pleased with the concession turnout. Great job Guy’s and Gal’s!

Immediately following the spectator viewing, we initiated our usual candy drop, in which a LAFA member flies above the runway and drops an assortment of treats upon waiting children. We basically simulate the Berlin candy drop made famous by the Allies following W.W.II. All candy (and we had a load of it!) was donated by club member Kees Boukamp. Each year he comes through on our request. Thanks Kees!

Once all children had cleared the runway, we resumed a couple more flights from brave pilots. Paul Rice flew again, this time taking up his Valley Aviation Hawker Tempest. Definitely a Top Gun contender, this model spans 95”, weights 45lbs. and uses a Quadra 100cc for power. Paul really demonstrated his skills and the plane’s gentle handling characteristics throughout the flight.

Weather was now deteriorating beyond what we could have imagined. Temperatures dropped several degrees, wind direction changed and extremely dark, ominous clouds began to lurk just north of our facility. My decision was made. Let’s get the raffles underway – fast! And that we did.

Through the efforts of Paul Gast, Kelly Mitchell, Loretta Westphal and other’s, hundred’s of raffle tickets were sold to both the public spectators and the pilots. Prizes offered at this year’s AeroFest were well beyond our expectations. Mainly in part due to the extraordinary efforts of our Event Coordinator, Vicar Hernandez. Vicar’s efforts assured AeroFest 05’ would have a diverse assortment of prizes denoted from out-of-town manufacturers. Some of these included ¼ scale pilot busts, giant-scale plans, an attractive hardware kit, foam electric R/C models and much more. President Mike Laughlin efforts provided all the local and paid prize donations, which included local hobby shop (LHS) coupons, dining certificates from local restaurants, foam electric planes, T-shirts, hats, and an impressive grand prize item – a TopFlight giant-scale ARF P-51D. This was a $500.00 prize which some lucky ticket holder would soon claim.

Following the raffle, we got to witness Doug Smith fly his mammoth Hawker Sea-Fury. I believe this model was built from enlarged Don Smith plans, as the wingspan exceeded 110”. Powered by a twin-cylinder Quadra 200cc, she flew very well despite the increasingly strong winds. Meanwhile, many of us watched Mike Laughlin and his co-pilot Rick Socarres, prepping Mike’s newest project – a Hangar 9 Sukoi SU-31. Though classified as an ARF, as usual, Mike incorporated his own modeling talents into the scheme, resulting in an extremely unique and attractive model. With a wingspan of 97” and weighing 24 lbs, a twin-cylinder 3W-78 easily pulls her through the air. After some engine tweaking, Mike was determined to get airborne before the rains began, so he taxied out onto the main runway, began his rollout and in short time, was airborne. After a half of dozen circuits around the field, Mike set up his approach from the East. Descending right above the canal and berm, the big Sukoi touched-down to a perfect landing.

This was to be the last flight, as now the rains had begun and it was plain ugly! Many of the registered pilots had already loaded their models into trailers, where I, simply threw a huge plastic “Circus” tarp over all four of my warbirds. After help from others in securing it, I went about business again.

Now everyone had crowded inside the covered pit area, awaiting for those dark clouds to past over. In the meantime, this was the perfect opportunity for AeroFest judges to tally all scores and determine winners of the seven beautifully-crafted plaques AMP’S had to offer. Rick Pellecchia, Bill Lancaster, Tom Caldwell, Loretta Westphal and our volunteer ”new” members, which included Rick Socarras, Fernando Vittoni, Pedro Tronge, Ivan Sierra and Peter Roque, all provided their efforts in determining who the winners would be.

The seven plaque winners were presented to the following brave individuals who battled the weather and flew their models:

• Leo Sellos – Best Civilian (Cessna 172)
• Doug Smith – Best Military (Hawker Sea-Fury)
• Ivan Gutierrez – Best of Sport (Extra330S)
• Paul Tirone – Sportsman Award (P-51 Mustang)
• Mike Laughlin – Best ARF (Sukoi SU-31)
• Paul Rice – Best of Show (Hawker Tempest)
• Mike Haspas – People’s Choice award (Grumman F-7F TigerCat)

In conclusion, no event could ever be successful if club members do not participate in some way or fashion. This will become of a greater concern as AeroFest will lose two of its “key” officials. Wally Crichton, our PA announcer (and past President) and the individual who helps out tremendously in field preparation and food purchasing, and Rick Pellecchia, our current Treasurer. Both Wally and Rick have retired and now reside outside of the South Florida area. From all of us that are involved with this organization. Thank you, for your tireless efforts and especially the keen wisdom and leadership you have provided this club over the year’s. It will be a tough challenge for AMPS to replace these two fine gentlemen.

I cannot fail to mention the many new members that stepped up to the plate and performed admirably, especially with the parking tasks at AeroFest 05’. It is not one of the more popular assignments, but certainly one that must be performed efficiently to assure the event’s success. Thanks extend out to Tom Wolfe, Luis Alvarinas, Francisco Basulto, Alexander Chan, Christopher Merey, Robert Perez, Herminio Perez, Conward Thompson and his son Steve and lastly, our money men – Sam Matos and Ray Mesa.

Thanks also to the many product donations made available by Frank Tiano (FTE), MGA Enterprises, Nick Ziroli Plans, Robart Manufacturing and Micro-Fasteners. Without their support, we simply could not offer such a variety of “gifts” to our pilots. Let’s make sure we support these guy’s on your next project!

Can we improve next year’s AeroFest event? You bet! Yes, there will be new Officials, but I foresee a smooth transition. With personnel changes I also suggest that AeroFest 06’ be reassigned a date within the summer months, as summer weather in South Florida is generally favorable for R/C flying. Though hot with our short rain showers, winds tend to be somewhat diminished from earlier months. I would like to hear everyone’s input on this suggestion. What do you think? Late July for AeroFest 06’ or possibly early November?

I thank each and everyone who participated in AeroFest 05’. Though the weather was not conducive to our event, we did make the best of the situation.

Hope to see all of you for AeroFest 06’

Best regards,

Nick Capone