PRESIDENT's CORNER
By Ron Gibby

After two trips to Utah last month to enjoy some time with my family I think I’ll finally be able to spend a little time at the flying field with my Great Planes Extra 300 . . . that is if the wind will only quit blowing. I have been able to make a few visits to the field and I’m really pleased at how well it looks. Now we just have to pray that the city water system continues to function reliably so that we have the water that is scheduled for our sprinkler system. Thanks to all of those who have helped with the mowing! If you haven’t been asked to mow, give Rob Opgenorth a call, he’s currently compiling a mowing schedule for the year.

Thanks to Jerry Wallis for conducting the club meeting last month. I’ll have to admit I’m disappointed that Clee’s idea for club I.D. badges was voted down. I still think it’s a good idea and I would encourage everyone to wear some form of I.D., preferably your club membership card, while flying at our field so we can get to know one another by name and not just by face and/or flying ability. The need to keep non-club members from flying at the field is not retribution for those that don’t want to pay club dues; it’s a reality of life. The club and the City of Richland are liable for any flying accidents that occur at our field. The AMA insurance only covers those accidents that involve AMA members. Our lease with the City is based on the condition that we will assure that only AMA members are allowed to fly at our field. The only exception is someone who wants to try the hobby before joining the AMA. They can fly on a buddy box with a club Intropilot Instructor for a period of 30 days at which time they must join the AMA to continue to fly. This is a one-time opportunity. Records are kept on each non-AMA student by the Intropilot Instructors. This information is subsequently transmitted to the AMA at the end of the 30-day period.

For comments or questions about the club please contact me by phone at 946-5356 or by Email at president@tcrcm.org.

Until next month, happy flying.