September 2014

Hello everyone.
Welcome to The RAMS Newsletter:
I hope that you all enjoy it!
September RAMS Club Meeting:
Sunday, September 7th. At the RAMS
Club field at 3:00PM. Let’s meet to take care of club business and quickly get to the business
of flying.
WORK CREWS:
The grass and weeds are growing and the flying field needs regular
care to keep it in tip top shape. Mowing is one of our biggest regular needs. If you have a
riding mower and able to bring it to the field, WE NEED YOU when we call for a work day. Gas
blowers and trimmers are always useful. Or just come and help picking up trash from the
grounds or just offer moral support. The more we are, the sooner the job gets done and then
quicker we can get to the business of flying.
Reminder: Abstain from flying while the work crews are out on the field.
RAMS RESEARCH AND DEVELOMENT DEPARTMENT
HEADQUARTERS This large and spacious building serves as the R&D
Headquarters at RAMS. All of our BEST ideas come out of
this facility. Our well renowned group of pilots keep
research going all the time to fix what is not broken, improve
on what already works, re-invent what already has been
invented. All to keep us in the forefront of RC technology.
So, remember that if you DON’T have a problem, we will be
glad to fix it for you at the RAMS R&D Headquarters.
The Fuschia Princess
getting repairs on the
toilet workbench at
the R&D
Headquarters. (???)
Peter Johnson had an agenda that was very important and
personal. Peter’s father was an avid RC Model builder with
many airplanes under his belt. But, he was not that great of
a pilot as Peter explains. His father built several cubs
besides plenty of gliders and many other themes. When
Peter joined the club around March, his goal was to regain
RC Flying proficiency to the point where he could fly the
airplanes his father built. With lots of determination and
initial training help at RAMS, Peter got back the hang of
flying pretty quick. First he brought a SIG RAISER Glider.
He got to fly it quite nicely. Of course he kept training with
his Sensei. Then he got to the point to refit his father built
Cub. Some fixing was needed and then he decided to
pursue a refit with an electric power setup. He got it ready
and the maiden flight was July 31st. Congratulations Peter.
I know how much it means to you.
A Carl Goldberg Cub, oldie but goodie, now with an electric power system.
Maiden flight by Peter. Final trim by JT.
Joe Gutilla.
Joe is one of our newer pilots. He flies
at RDRC and now also at RAMS. Joe
has a preference for electric models.
This afternoon he brought an electric
Stick from Hobby King. This airplane is
balsa ply construction. It is in the 32
size and he powers it with a Turnigy SK
series motor with a 3 cell LiPo 3200
milliamp. It flies very well. A good
looking model with the stable and agile
characteristics of a stick. There was a
little bit of crosswind but Joe’s landing
was smooth.
SUKHOI SU29MM
This is the new Parkzone Sukhoi with a
Power 10 motor on 3 cell 2200 LiPo
featuring SAFE and AS3X stabilization.
It is intended to be a model for sport
flyers to practice aerobatics and basic 3D
maneuvers with the benefit of
stabilization.
Our Charlie Pate could not wait and he proceeded to do the “UNBOXING” of the
airplane. I bought the model from Raleigh Hobbies & RC for $229.00 plus tax. Builds
very fast. Comes as a BNF basic which means you get the airplane with all electronics
including a DSMX receiver with SAFE / AS3X that is specific for this airplane only. No
LiPo or charger is included. It is intended for at least an intermediate level pilot. It has
the PANIC BUTTON recovery mode if you get in trouble (also known by the Flite Test
guys as the “OH SH**T BUTTON”). It is remarkable how this PANIC Recovery works.
It does not matter in what awkward position the airplane is, it will go back to level flight
instantly. At present I can say I like it and definitely you can get away with some
maneuvers easier like harriers and hovers and so on. The AS3X does not seem to get
on the way of your flying, which is nice. I am not that great at 3D anyways but like to
have fun with the basic 3D maneuvers so we will see.
Foam STEARMAN version by Peter
Peter built this Foam Stearman from Internet
available plans. This is a smaller version of the
Stearman that Joe Schodt, John Dunning, JT, myself
have. This one looks great. Here is Peter and JT
working on the radio setup. Peter uses a Taranis
radio and little by little he is discovering the
capabilities this radio has as an open source
software transmitter. Once maidened and painted I
will do an update.
:
Together with flying,
socializing at RAMS is
one of the best things we
do. Just to sit down and
talk airplanes or life is fun
with such a nice group.
Terri Kinston, LuLu, Gary and Rich having a good talk and watching some of the flying.
Buck, Bob and Terri Camilli figuring out some airplane settings.
Rumen and his wife at the field.
He is working on getting his FT
Bloody Wonder repaired with some
hot glue. These wings fly really
nice. So far, I have seen Chris,
Larry and a couple of other pilots
flying them and I had the chance to
fly a few. They perform nicely.
If you are interested on building
one of these, go to the FliteTest
store and look for the Bloody
Wonder. They sell a kit with all the
materials minus the electronics for
about $35.00.
JT is helping Jack to set his DH Beaver from Eflite into Jack’s
FUTABA 14 channel radio. Jack took off and needed some
help to trim in flight so I took it from there and got it nicely
trimmed. Then Jack took over again and flew it nicely. You
should have seen when he landed. He greased the airplane
perfectly.
NICE JOB JACK!!
A LITTLE BIT OF COMBAT
ANYONE?
On a late Sunday afternoon,
suddenly the RAMS skies were
filled with combat planes.
Chris, Larry, Dr. Joey, Bob,
Terri.
Here we have Larry, Mike and Terry. Mike
and Larry are supervising Terry on his fixing
of a HobbyKing Radjet and also a Parkzone
Stryker. He then flew both and was a lot of
fun. It was interesting to watch Terry’s
Stryker wing. It was so well setup and
trimmed that the wing flew a complete lap
around the field with no control input. It
looked like it was on autopilot. Was pretty
cool indeed!
These guys sure know how to have fun!
Greg Koepke is progressing on
his building of this nice looking
carbon fiber hexacopter. Motors
are in place and most of the
electronics and stabilization
system are also in place. This
aircraft looks impressive and
everything in it is nice and
organized. Multirotors are not my
thing but this definitely looks to me
as a technological wonder.
Looking forward to seeing it fly.
JOHNSON’S SPACE AGENCY
The JOHNSON’S SPACE AGENCY is a subsidiary of the RAMS RESEARCH AND
DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT. Just remember that we can expect great things from
these pilots who are in the FRONT PORCH OF TECHNOLOGY and the BLEEDING
EDGE OF AERONAUTICAL DESIGN. Here we have Lizzie and Peter at the field on a
Sunday afternoon to try their model rocketry designs. WOW, did it bring memories to
some of us at the field! Peter built both rockets from materials on hand at his workshop.
Both rockets had parachutes made out of grocery plastic bags. They flew great
although the motors used did not have the parachute deployment as expected so they
came down fast. It was a good thing as it was windy. It was fun to watch.
BOB HOTTLE
Holding his HOG WILD
Combat wing. He put
together this wing out of a kit
he bought. The wing is made
of Coroplast plastic material.
It is flown with a 3 cell 2200
LiPo. Bob gave me the
honors of the maiden flight
and then follow up test flights
until this thing is flying quite
nicely. He even asked me to
fly it during combat.
WOW! Thanks Bob!
Joe Schodt is getting his super big large
scale foam Stearman Biplane ready . He is
being supervised during field assembly by
Joe Gutilla.
This Biplane just flies fabulous!
We are still waiting for a paint job!!
RAMS Pilots on a get
together at the “Joe
Horvath’s Trailer
Lounge”
Larry, Charlie and Joe
talking airplanes.
D
Dr. Joey’s CIRRUS SR22 from Hangar 9.
This is a large 30cc size
composite built fuselage with balsa ply wood wing construction. Designed for a 30cc
gas engine or electric equivalent. I chose a Power 160 motor from Eflite on a 10cell
LiPo setup. This is a sweet airplane in flight. It is a heavy airplane so it must be flown
relatively fast. The flaps are needed to get the takeoff right and full down for landing.
Looks great in the air and especially on a slow fly by with full flaps down. I can get a 6
minute flight using 5000 milliamps batteries. You definitely don’t want to run out of
battery power on this airplane as it will come down quickly with no second chance. This
airplane is about 2 years old now.
JT flying the Dr. Joey’s Carbon Senior 3D at the RAMS Field on a Saturday after the WORK
DAY has been completed and the field has been nicely mowed.
JOE HORVATH 104” SLICK 540 from 3DHS with a DA-120.
What a beauty! Congratulations Joe on the maiden flight. (Maiden flight at RDRC)
Joe’s report: All the stars lined perfectly on Sunday and I got
to maiden the 3DHS 104 " Slick 540. All I can say is "What an
aircraft and what an engine". It was actually a bit windy on
Sunday, but that didn't bother the Slick one bit. It still did
whatever I told it to do with perfection. The DA -120 is
amazing; while in a hover, the Slick jumps like a scared rabbit
with the throttle response of that engine. I felt comfortable
doing anything I wanted right after trimming. That thing is the
ultimate 3D beast; I can't wait for next weekend.
Rich sent me this picture of his FUNMASTER to let me know what could possibly go
wrong!
RICH is holding the remains of
his airplane sporting his
aeronautical philosophical
phrase.
WHAT COULD POSSIBLY GO
WRONG!!
What a good sport he is. He even poses
after his catastrophic loss. I admit that he
does not seem to be grieving too much.
Can you guess what went wrong??
Good one Rich!!
RAMS Pilot Lizzie Johnson continues
the build of her SIG SENIORITA.
It will be electric powered and ailerons will be
added.
Keep At It Lizzie!!
MIMA Johnson
This beautiful young
lady is Peter’s mother.
Her husband was into
building RC models and
Peter followed in the
tradition. MIMA enjoys
very much watching
Peter flying some of the
airplanes his father
built. Can’t get any
better than that!!
EXTRA 300 & YAK 54 100CC
On Labor Day Weekend, it was hot but it was perfect weather for flying. On Sunday JT
and I found ourselves being the only two at the field for most of the afternoon so we
took out the big birds and got some great flying done until late.
Peter Johnson’s rendition of the foam
Stearman.
The airplane was maidened and got a paint job.
Alex Alexander came to the field for
some flying of his Sport Trainer. So far, Alex
has been mostly flying with Joe Schodt on
trainer cord but this time he flew SOLO with
JT by his side and took off, flew around,
landed and took the airplane home in one
piece.
VERY NICE ALEX!!
LABOR DAY WEEKEND:
A few of us decided to weather the 95 degrees heat and cook
some hamburgers and hot dogs at the field. Gary, JT and I got
a nice lunch going and some good flying. A few other pilots
made it and participated of the food. Here is Sam enjoying a
burger. Of course, with the heat and a full belly, a nap was in
order. Three blasting fans helped with the heat.
:
William McGhee joined RAMS a few months ago. He has an electric Nexstar from Hobbico /
Tower Hobbies. It is considered a 46 size trainer airplane. It is balsa ply built covered with
MonoKote. “Buck” bought the airplane a few years ago so the radio system is a 72Mhz.
Currently the model comes with a 2.4Ghz system. It has a stabilization system built in. We had
to neutralize it as it was not letting us connect the Master and Buddy Box system and work
properly for the training process. The airplane comes also with NiMh batteries for the power
system. Obviously the technology nowadays is LiPo and so we changed the batteries to a more
efficient LiPo 4Cell setup. We also changed the propeller to get better power and this airplane
came alive. Having worked with this model, the few of us training Buck, agree that the
Apprentice is a better trainer option followed by the Sensei. Nevertheless, this trainer will do the
job very well also. He has achieved takeoff already and landing. He is getting the hang of it so,
practice, practice, practice! He will get to solo flying.
The Nexstar electric version comes in two sizes. A smaller version is available. As I said, this
one is the larger 46 size and is temporarily unavailable on the Tower Hobbies website at the
time this was written. The cost is about $500.00 ready to fly.
PETER OCONNELL
Peter, son of Dr. Patrick is right in the middle of his training. Dad uses a trainer cord as
well as stand by method of teaching. Peter is getting the hang of it at this early age.
Peter is using an Eflite Apprentice 15S (SAFE/AS3X) trainer. I could not believe when
Peter got ready on his chair with Dad at his side and next thing I know the Apprentice is
taking off on BASIC mode and Peter is at the controls. I also saw Peter doing a little bit
of flying with his Dad’s Sport Cub. That is just fabulous!! This is what RAMS is all
about. Family and FUN.
OR NEWEST PILOT IN TRAINING:
Meet RICO. He is a Bichon Frise (son of Dr. Joey – me) and is 10 months old. He
likes to fetch his squeaky tennis ball, have a snack anytime, get a good rub and fly RC
airplanes. The summer temperatures have been often too hot for him so coming to the
field has been very limited and mostly when Dad can bring him very late afternoon just
for a couple of hours. His pilot call sign is “LOVERBOY”. Right now he has been
coming as a guest family but his membership application will come soon for a vote.
Maybe we will get him a membership card if admitted to the club under the RAMS FIDO
Membership Program.
:
A Chapter in RC History that comes
to an end.
(Dr. Joey)
Some of you inquired from me, by e-mail and at the field, about an e-mail that a club member
sent club wide to the RAMS members about the IMAA organization closing their doors. Some
newer pilots got confused between the IMAA and AMA and were concerned if the end of IMAA
had anything to do with our insurance. I did not want to clutter member’s e-mails inboxes with a
discussion about IMAA so I decided to include this topic on this newsletter. Some of you,
especially the newer pilots, don’t know about IMAA and the role that it played in the RC Hobby.
I am not going to get into too much detail because the fact is that it has ceased to function.
IMAA was the International Miniature Aircraft Association. It was an organization with
beginnings in 1980 whose area of interest was large scale models. Before those days, flying a
46 to 60 size rc model was considered big. There was no readily available equipment to go
bigger. Servos, landing gears and even engines for the large birds were not manufactured as it
is today. Larger models were flown with weed whackers gas engines and alike. The first step
this organization took was defining what a large scale model was. They defined as large scale
RC model aircrafts those with wingspans of 80 inches or more for monoplanes and 60 inches
for multi-wing airplanes. Jets with 140 inches combined length and width. Quarter scale
replicas and larger of actual airplanes, but not as large as to have the potential to carry a human
being. If you noticed in manufacturers and distributor catalogs like Tower Hobbies, it would say
that an airplane was IMAA LEGAL. This meant that the model was considered large scale and
could enter into large scale events. IMAA was made a Special Interest Group of the AMA in
October 1983. Became the single largest interest group within the AMA and had its own
magazine publication, HighFlight Magazine. IMAA got manufacturers to start catering to the
larger models with better electronics and accessories as well as producing bigger kits and later
ARFs. IMAA was funded by membership to the organization and manufacturers and distributors
contributions.
Some of us attending and flying in many RC model events would have not only an AMA
registration but also an IMAA registration to be allowed to fly. An example was the Joe Nall
event in Woodruff, South Carolina. IMAA rules were followed to qualify a model as large scale
and you must have an IMAA registration. About three years ago, IMAA registration was no
longer required at events like the Joe Nall but the IMAA organization was present to promote
the group and get new members. In the case of the Joe Nall, having the AMA alone was
enough although the definition of large scale models was and is still applied.
Due to dwindling membership and lack of industry funding, the Board of Directors that runs
IMAA found that the production of their magazine on print and digital form as well as the viability
of the group was no longer possible so it will cease to exist. Obviously some have the concern
that this is a sign of the decline on the interest of RC Large Scale model aircrafts and potentially
a sign of not so great times for the RC Flying Hobby future. So that’s it! That was the IMAA. It
is not the AMA and it does not have to do with the operations of clubs like RAMS but it has been
part of the history of the evolution of RC, especially large scale and is sad to see it gone.
VIDEOS WORTH WATCHING:
: http://youtu.be/-7l2CIzLiz0
: http://youtu.be/PTUBlaVUqnQ
http://youtu.be/087sF9pfuSE
Large Scale Airplane Flown 4D Style
Video Worth Watching
Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_detailpage&v=3AkKQmDgOV8
OK! Joe H, Ben or Greg, when are we going to see you doing
this?
SkyMule from HobbyKing
Link:
http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__54352__Durafly_SkyMule_Twin_FPV_Sports_Model_EPO_1500mm_
PNF_US_Warehouse_.html?strSearch=skymule
This airplane from HobbyKing has been getting a lot of attention. Some people are getting it for
FPV, video, photo or for fun power sport flying. Since it is meant to take a load, it has a better
power system. The reports are that it flies great and very stable. A lot of pilots really like it.
Main complaints I have heard so far is a somewhat weak landing gear and does not take much
to break a propeller. Seems to be one model to consider. Let’s see who is the first one at
RAMS that gets one of these.
Specs: Wingspan: 1500mm , Length: 1095mm , Flying Weight: Approx 1860g , Motor: 2 x
4023 1100kv brushless outrunners, ESC: 2 x 30A, Servos: 5 x 9g micro servos, Prop
Size: 3-blade 10x8
COMMERCIAL DRONES TAKE OFF IN CHARLOTTE
AREA: (Sent to me by Ben Davis)
http://www.charlotteobserver.com/2014/08/06/v-print/5089527/commercial-drones-are-taking-off.html
This is an interesting article about “drones” in the Charlotte Observer.
John Hart | Southeast Farm Press
LINK: UAV research in North Carolina awaiting FAA approval
Research
on using unmanned aerial vehicles in North Carolina agriculture will begin as soon as North
Carolina State University receives approval from the Federal Aviation Administration to use the
vehicles.
HITEC X1-200
From Greg Koepke: “Playing with a new Hitec
200w touch screen charger!! Awesome tool for
R/C flyers!!!”
From Dr. Joey: I saw this charger at the field.
This is a nice charger with a very cool look and
will do everything a charger must do. The LCD
screen is a very “hi tech” feature although
regardless of contrast or colors chosen, I was
having problems seen the screen in bright light
and I could not see it if even slightly sideways.
Greg was not having problems seeing it though.
Link: http://www3.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LXDUCF&P=ML
There is an AC/DC version for $100.00 and this DC only version with 200W output for
$120.00
From Dr. Joey: And of course there are dual output and single output touch screen
chargers at HobbyKing for the same or lower price. But no doubt this is a good looking
charger.
FlySky FSi-10 10 Channel 2.4G AFHDS 2 Aircraft
Radio System (color touchscreen)
Price: $240.00
It amazes me
the full featured radios that are
coming out for remarkably less price
than the main brand names.
Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=iorn9jQnS4I
Unboxing video: http://youtu.be/qRvOodyKrbc
To me, one main disadvantage on this radio is that can’t accept frequency modules so
you can’t use a DSM2/DSMX or other JR style modules.
WE NEED ONE OF THIS AT RAMS!!
I can see Gary sitting in the tractor pulling this thing at the RAMS field. Can you imagine what a
happy camper he would be!
Can we get one of this to cut the grass at the RAMS field? Maybe will be in the budget for next
year. YEAH RIGHT!! All these mower units are hydraulic. When all units are running, sounds
like a huge airplane flying by. This is the way they manicure the grass runways at the TRIPLE
TREE AERODROME, home of the Joe Nall and the EWeek.
TURNIGY BOLT BATTERIES:
High Voltage LiPos
http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__51499__Turnigy_Bolt_2400mAh_3S_11_4V_65_130C_High_Voltage_
Lipoly_Pack.html
A reformulated matrix to allow you to safely charge them up to 4.35 volts per cell! This
is instead of the usual 4.20 volts per cell. In addition to the higher nominal and max
voltage, they are engineered to take high C rate discharge up to 65C continuous.
Basically what this means is that these batteries will provide more power in your
machine especially during high current draw maneuvers, and they will provide a longer
cycle life due to the lower operating temperatures of the pack. These packs are meant
for high-demand flying such as 3D helicopters, EDFs, F3A and any other high current
draw applications. The Turnigy Bolt batteries can be charged with any standard lipo
charger for basic use, they will simply perform like a standard pack. When using the
proper charger such as the Turnigy Neutron chargers, which is designed with special
protocol for these LiHV batteries, you can unlock the full potential of the Turnigy Bolt
batteries.
Hobby King says that for pilots it means stronger throttle punches and unreal straight-up
performance.
JR PROPO 28X 28-Channel DMSS Transmitter with RG031BX
 480x273 pixel Android-powered 4.3" WQVGA-TFT full-color
X-Bus Receiver
touch screen features beautiful 16-bit color output









Well, we now know the price for the
JR 28X. So, in case you need a
28 channel RC radio, you can get
this one for $2,700.00





Dual processors for unmatched interfacing and RF reliability
Patent-pending CNC machined aluminum gimbals are ball
bearing-supported and fully adjustable to suit any flyer
Jaw-dropping 65,536 step stick resolution is 16 times more
precise than any R/C transmitter ever made to date
4GB internal memory, with 512MB RAM
Removable, customizable shoulder switch plates can be
configured to virtually any combination of switches
Fully customizable user interface allows users to set wallpaper,
color schemes, and notifications to personalize their radio
Heavy-duty cast aluminum chassis provides unparalleled
strength for a feel unmatched by any radio ever made
28 channels in 16 proportional + 12 binary configuration
Integrated USB host controller and USB device port for
seamless data interfacing and PC connection
External SD card slot for unlimited model, picture, sound, and
telemetry data storage
Customizable audio and vibration notifications
Audio controller for voice, music, and telemetry notifications
Push-button power switch virtually eliminates accidental
powering on and off
Removable antenna for safe storage when not in use
REMINDER TO OUR HELI PILOTS:
On rare occasions, there has been
helicopters flying while airplanes are in the air. The airplane pilot has the concern of a
heli being flown mostly over the runway posing a higher risk of mid-air collision.
Airplane pilots feel uncomfortable with the helicopters being flown near them. So, the
reminder goes: RAMS is an airplane club. Some of our airplane pilots enjoy flying
helicopters and multirotors. They are allowed to do so when no airplane is in the air and
must land as soon as an airplane is ready to go up. And Fly from the pilot stands
please!
These are the DO and DON’TS as per the FAA regarding model
aircraft flying.
AMA Files Petition for Review of FAA’s
Interpretive Rule in the U.S. Court Of Appeals
(Information directly from the AMA Website)
Today (8/27/14) the Academy of Model Aeronautics (AMA) filed a Petition for Review in the
United States Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit challenging the FAA’s Interpretation of the
Special Rule for Model Aircraft published in the Federal Register on June 25, 2014.
The AMA believes that the FAA’s Interpretive Rule is contrary to the text and intent of the FAA
Modernization and Reform Act of 2012, Public Law 112-95, and violates Congress’ specific
prohibition on any new rules or regulations regarding model aircraft that are operated pursuant
to a community-based organization’s standards. The FAA’s purported interpretation effectively
establishes an array of new regulations that model aircraft enthusiasts have never been subject
to in the past, and poses an immediate and direct hardship on model aviation.
“Model aviation is a wholesome family recreational and educational activity,” said AMA
Executive Director Dave Mathewson. “Aeromodeling has been a steppingstone to careers in
aviation and aerospace for many young people in this country, and AMA is concerned that the
FAA’s interpretation of the law will diminish our ability to continue to be the pipeline for young
talent that will become the next generation of engineers this country so sorely needs.”
Although AMA has worked cooperatively with the FAA in the past, and hopes to continue to do
so, the AMA has filed its petition for review within 60 days of the issuance of the FAA
interpretation, by necessity, in order to assert its legal rights.
“The AMA has worked collaboratively and in good faith with the FAA’s Unmanned Aircraft
Systems Integration Office for many years and will continue to do so as we attempt to work
through our differences concerning the interpretive rule,” said AMA President Bob Brown.
To learn more about the AMA’s advocacy efforts, and how you can help, visit:
http://www.modelaircraft.org/aboutama/gov.aspx.
View the full press release online:
http://www.modelaircraft.org/files/AMAFilesPetitionforReviewofFAAsInterpretiveRule.pdf .
FLY FROM THE FLIGHT (PILOT) STATIONS:
A specific reminder that pilots must fly from the flight stations. This is for your safety. This
applies to any pilot, at any time flying any type of model. It is even more important when a
second pilot is ready for flight. Again, all pilots must fly from the flight stations. If for any reason
you must get an airplane airborned from the field or outside the flight station, just make it back
to the flight station but this action of walking while flying should be avoided as possible, so get
started from the flight station. Thanks guys for paying attention to this small but important safety
rule. The newer pilots may not be aware of this basic safety requirement so the more
experienced pilots may need to remind them. One of the best things at RAMS is that all pilots
are great guys and no one gets offended when reminded about a safety rule. We are just that
kind of group and quite fortunate to be this way.
Courtesy of Peter Johnson
On a Tuesday
afternoon after some
rain in a hot summer
day.
There is no doubt that
we are lucky to have
such a nice field to fly
from.
Video Link of the RAMS Double
Rainbow:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=p
layer_detailpage&v=m9CKuFoCK0Q
We must all be very appreciative of the efforts our work crews put into keeping the RAMS field
looking great. Especially the mowing crews. Our manicured field is just beautiful. Many times,
coming to the field and just watch the sky and nature is all we need and at times we don’t even
take the airplanes out of the car. Just sit, watch and talk between friends. So, please
remember that anytime you can come by and help on maintenance when a work day is called
for it will be greatly appreciated.
“Now I Am Going To
Show You How To Get
Out Of A Stall”
Cartoon & Caption by
Peter Johnson,MD
“That Is Where We
Keep The Spare
Parts”
Cartoon: Peter Johnson, MD
Caption: Jose Armstrong, MD
AVOID FLYING OVER THE FARMING CREWS AND EQUIPMENT:
As part of our GOOD NEIGHBOR POLICY we ask from all our pilots to keep away from
any farming crews working out on the fields. Please, stay away from flying over them or
their equipment. This is a must and our friend (the farmer) has requested this from us
and appreciates our effort.
This is the next one to look for. I have attended the Electric Nall twice and even though this event is in its
infancy, it is quickly becoming a class event. So make plans to attend and I will see you there.
http://www.tripletreeaerodrome.com/eweek-fly-in.php
PILOT FEES: Adult Pilot - $35 (one time price no matter what day you arrive) Pilot 18 or under - $15
(same as above – one time fee)
CAMPING FEES: $17 per night per camping space
SPECTATOR FEES: (adult) - $10, (12-18) - $8, (under 12) – free
BBQ Saturday 6:00PM: Adult - $15, 12 and Under - $8, Hotdog - $5
NOISE REGULATIONS AT RAMS AS PART OF OUR
“GOOD NEIGHBOR POLICY”:
At RAMS we take into high
consideration, the comfort of our neighbors. It is the right thing
to do and a must if we want to maintain a good relationship
with them. The survival of our field depends on it. One of the
main considerations is noise control. We abstain from flying
gas, glow engines or noisy electrics before 9:00AM or at
night. Any engine that is deemed too noisy may need
improved silencer system or may not be able to fly at RAMS.
Any engine that is a 50cc displacement or more must have a
CANISTER Muffler
canister muffler system, no exception. Any engine below a 50CC
displacement must use the best silencer system possible.
If deemed too loud, may require an improved silencer equipment
installed. DLE 35CC gas engines are too loud with the stock
muffler. You must use baffle inserts to silence the DLE 35cc
engines. The DLE 20cc is too loud with stock muffler. You
must use a baffle silencer. See the RAMS February 2014
Newsletter for the information about baffle silencer
BAFFLE SILENCER INSERT
inserts. You can check past newsletters at the RAMS Website.
GET ON THE FLIGHT PATTERN:
When a second airplane goes in the air, both pilots
should enter a flight pattern. The flight pattern is
nothing more than pilots agreeing on a general
direction of flight to reduce the chance of two
airplanes colliding because flying into each other
because of going in opposite directions. Usually, the
flight pattern is determined by the wind direction. If
the wind is coming from a north direction, airplanes
will take off and land from right to left on our runway.
So the flight pattern is for airplanes to fly from right to left over the runway. Sometimes with
crosswinds you may not be sure what the flight pattern is, just ask the pilot already in the air.
We are asking to the experienced pilots to help the new pilots with understanding this basic
concept for safety. Avoid flying figure eights with returns over the runway when a second
airplane takes off. That places you half the time flying against the flight pattern. Avoid 3D
maneuvers (flip flopping) over the runway when other airplanes are flying. Do it over the grass
field. If you are the only one flying, have at it and do all the flight maneuvers you want. But
observe and return to a flight pattern when a second airplane takes off, especially if it is a new
pilot with less experience. Keep it safe. Thanks guys!
How can I join The RAMS Club?
NOTICE: RAMS club membership is limited to 50 pilots per year.
We enjoy new pilots that come to be an active part of our club community. We welcome new
pilots coming with an attitude of learning, having fun, keeping things safe and have a family
oriented behavior. We want pilots that will do their very best to keep a good neighbor relation
by following our flying hours and noise restrictions. RAMS Club membership is not
automatic. New applicants are voted in for final membership after an initial period of usually
4 to 6 weeks. Yearly membership renewals are not automatic or guaranteed. The member
must maintain good standing, active involvement with the club, follow the club and AMA safety
rules and maintain a proper family oriented and safe conduct. New applicants must submit a
form that can be obtained from the club website (www.ramsrc.com) or at the club meetings.
The form must be filled entirely and legibly. The signed form with the appropriate fees must be
mailed or handed to the club treasurer, Larry McMillen. New applicants will include a one-time
$50.00 initial runway fee together with the appropriate membership fee. New membership is
prorated by year quarters. (1st quarter - $100.00, 2nd quarter - $75.00, 3rd quarter - $50.00 and
4th quarter - $25.00). The initiation fee is not prorated. So, if you apply in May, the total fee is
$50 + $75.00 (2nd quarter) = $125.00. New member applications submitted in December are
$150.00 and counts for the incoming year.
The membership application form contains all the details about fees and the application
process. All applicants and membership renewals must have an up to date AMA registration.
Any potential club member that flies at the RAMS field must apply for membership no later than
4 weeks since they began flying at our facility. If guests or family are going to be flying with
some regularity, they must apply for membership within four weeks of their first time
flying.
New applicants must spend time at the field to get to know the club members and club
officers once they apply and before the next club meeting. This is to allow an opportunity
for you to find out if our club meets your needs and to assess that the potential member is a
good fit to our club family oriented and safety conducts. At the end of the monthly club meeting
the club officers discuss your application and vote. If a new applicant is denied final
membership, we will return any paid application fees.
Guests and new applicants are welcomed to fly at RAMS as long as they fly with a RAMS
club member and must have an AMA registration up to date.
All applicants, once they have submitted the membership form, will receive a welcome e-mail
with further instructions about the application process and the basic rules at RAMS. A response
to this welcome e-mail is used to verify that we have the correct contact e-mail address.
So, that’s it. Once you become a full member, you may vote on meetings and may enjoy safe
fun flying with a bunch of friendly RAMS Pilots. Students and family members do not have
voting right.
IMPORTANT: Please inquire if there are member positions available at RAMS. If there are
no positions available, you can choose being placed on a waiting list. Once we are done with
the membership renewal process between December and January, we will let you know if a
membership position is available.
Be aware that there are other RC clubs close to our area with whom we have a great relation
and friendship.
The Raleigh Durham Radio Control Club (RDRC):
http://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=1&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0CB8QFjAA&url=http%3A%2F%2Fw
ww.rd-rc.org%2F&ei=BAC8U4bQLK-vsQS38oGgBA&usg=AFQjCNHOQu5oECEoAQya_FoS06jvSbTtoQ&sig2=GVvHqFm6TaY_5D_YsckwA&bvm=bv.70138588,d.cWc
The PILOT Club: http://www.dualrates.com/pls/apex/f?p=RC:INFO:0::::P3_ID:4190#R2482471252304404580
Other RC Clubs in the Area: http://ramsrc.com/links.php#AreaClubs
SAFETY REMINDERS: In order to keep our club activities as safe as possible we ask
pilots to follow a few basic rules. We want to keep it safe for person and property. RAMS
Safety rules as well as AMA Safety Code are to be followed. If you don’t agree with these rules,
RAMS may not be the right club for you. Get on a flight pattern: We ask pilots that when a
second airplane goes in flight, to enter into an agreed flight pattern to reduce the chance of
midair collisions. If you do 3D (FlipFlopping) or aerobatics, do them over the grass area of the
outfield away from the flight path over the runway. Once you complete your maneuver, enter
the pattern. If you are not sure what the flight pattern is, just ask. There is no problem with
asking especially if you are new to the club or the RC Hobby. We ask the more experienced
pilots to help the newer ones understand this concept of flight pattern. Example: When a
second airplane goes in the air, avoid flying figure eights over the runway as it will place you half
the time flying against the flight path.
Fly from the pilot stands: For safety of the pilots and property, please fly from the pilot stands.
This includes our heli pilots. For safety reasons we must insist to have pilots flying from the
stands. Do not allow your heli or airplane fly too close to other pilots or yourself. We have a
limit of 4 pilots flying at the same time. This keeps the airspace from getting too crowded and
reduces the risk of midair collisions. If you are the fifth pilot, just wait until someone
lands. Those flying gas or nitro engines, engines must be started on the pilot side of the
fence. Do not start them on the parking lot even for testing or adjustments. When placing or
retrieving an airplane on the runway, call loudly for the runway so everyone else knows where
you are. If you must retrieve an airplane on the field, announce when you are crossing the
runway. If you need to make adjustments on your aircraft, do not leave it on the runway. Taxi
to the pilot stand area and do whatever adjustments you must. On takeoff and landing,
announce loudly what you are doing to make sure other pilots are aware. If your airplane goes
“motor deadstick” or you are running out of battery power, announce it loudly and you will have
landing priority. DO NOT FLY behind the flight line. Do not taxi airplanes in the pits area
especially if facing towards the parking / shelter area. Please make sure that all your
FAILSAFE settings in your receiver are established properly, especially the throttle to come to
idle or cut off. Please observe the NO SMOKING regulation. We have an increased number of
glow and gas models as well as gas generators. If you must smoke at the field, there is a
designated area on the south end of the parking.
So, in general, all of the above means, that we need to get used to keep our safety routines at
all times. We need to make sure we all keep awareness of what other pilots are doing and
where everyone is, when flying. These precautions will help to keep things safer for pilots and
property. If you see unsafe behavior, just politely let the pilot know. One of the many good
things in our club is that everyone is friendly and receptive to be made aware if an unsafe
behavior for the sake of safety. In case that does not work, let the Safety Officer (Joe Schodt)
know or an available club officer.
I hope you enjoyed this month’s newsletter!! It is my pleasure to put it together for you guys.
Many thanks to Rich, Joe Horvath, Joe Schodt, Ben, Greg, and Peter for contributions to this
month’s newsletter. And of course thanks to anyone else that sent me material for the
newsletter and I forgot to mention your name.
Remember that all the opinions and information in the RAMS newsletters are for entertainment purposes
only. Double and triple check for safety when you try some of the things discussed in these newsletters as
the information may not be a 100% accurate all the time.
Don’t kill the messenger and don’t take it too seriously and just have safe fun flying!!
Dr. Joey
RAMS Secretary