UThe Radiator

Field reports:

Strawberry: Ron reported that the field was burned out by the NJ Forestry. This is an annual event, and was done somewhat early this year. Ed Milewski will take over as the Strawberry Field Coordinator with NJ Forestry. Please note that any and all correspondence, questions, issues should be directed to Ed. He is the direct liaison to the NJ Forestry people. Ron Lockhart and Roy Wilson are alternates. Riverbend: Bob Stinson reported that the field was muddy but road repairs will begin soon. They will use wood chips, crushed scrap concrete, and dirt to fill in the holes and gaps. The annual Riverbend Open House will be held again this year. The date has not yet been set, but this year should be bigger and better than last year, and last year was pretty good! The purpose of the event is two-fold. 1^st. we are obligated by the county to hold some sort of open house event to show that the property is being used as intended, and 2^nd to strut our stuff! Last year, we had a pretty good turn out, with several new people coming and trying out RC flying for themselves. We had several trainers available with buddy boxes so those that wanted to fly were able to. We also had some press coverage. We hope to have more this year, but we will make sure the reporters get it right this time. We have hand-out club flyer that we will pass on to the reporters to use for their information and reference to get it right in their articles.

Committee Reports:

Membership: Several Emails were swapped discussing how the club plans on treating temp flyers. We occasionally have ‘long term’ visitors (one or two) that request flying privileges at either of our fields. A club policy will be developed and presented at the March 2008 meeting. Safety: There was a short discussion about lithium batteries on commercial aircraft as checked vs. carry on baggage, as well as the Futaba FAASt 2.4 GHz binding problems with receivers. A web site has been established to check the release version of the problem sets. If you suspect you have one, check the web site or call in the Futaba Customer Service and check if your serial number has the problem. They will provide you with instructions on returning it for service. Newsletter: The only issue with the newsletter was the lack of a February issue. Dick reported that he had a computer problem that wiped out quite a bit of data resulting in attempts to reconstruct the newsletter. This was partially successful, but unfortunately events overtook circumstances and the newsletter never was sent out. This month’s newsletter will contain information from both February and March. Helicopters: The regular Sunday fun flys will commence as soon as Riverbend dries out a bit. The annual Helicopter Gathering will take place the weekend following Labor Day, which is September 5^th through the

₇th

. SAM-12: Flying will begin on Wednesday evenings after the clock change on March 9^th, weather and temperature permitting. The flyer was completed for the annual Old Timers Meet on August 3^rd. This year, SAM12 will celebrate their 20^th annual Old Timers Meet. The event will include electric flyers, which generally are rubber band powered aircraft converted to electric. See the flyer at the end of this months issue of the Radiator. Many members are planning on attending the Lebanon PA and the Hamburg PA swap meets where they will distribute the SAM12 poster. Several copies will also be delivered to the SAM booth at the WRAM show. Webmaster: Ed Milewski is off to Guam for a few weeks of R&R. The club web site is due for renewal. The cost of this is $49.95 and was authorized for payment. Spaghetti Dinner: The annual Spaghetti Dinner is planned for Satruday, March 22^nd 2008 and will again be held at the John D. Young Blind Center. This was well attended last year, and hopefully more members will attend this year. We all hope to see you there. Ed McAllister is the point of contact and will get out a mailing concerning the event shortly. The cost is minimal. Please RSVP to Ed so we can get an accurate count. SWAP Meet: The club will sponsor a membership swap meet at the March 5^th meeting. Bring your stuff. Either sell it or give it away.. but bring it!!! Large Scale: The first large scale event is in the planning process. Brian Tindall is the point of contact for this. He will work with the club to organize rules and requirements prior to publishing this event. The club has not yet set a date for this event. More on this in subsequent newsletters. Ocean City Air Fest: The Ocean City Air Fest planning is in progress. We will follow up with any needed information to pass on to Frank Impagliazzo, who has been our historical point of contact with the City of Ocean City for this event. We want a plan for the day’s activities. If we do this right, we can get more time to fly. We are always the highlight of the air fest.

FAA Aviation Enrichment Symposium: Ms. Ginger Cairns, of the FAA, contacted Dick Soucy about the Skyblazers participation this year. The event is planned for August 23^rd. Ms. Cairns said that because this year is the 50^th anniversary of the William J. Hughes Technical Center, there will be more activities geared to those that retired as well as to the current activities and programs out at ‘NAFEC’. She is particularly interested in having the SAM12 people with their old-timer planes come and put on a static display, as well as the more modern aircraft in use by the members. She said that she will arrange for two large areas for our planes. She also said that the area behind the cafeteria is now finished so we can again resume our flight demos with electrics and helicopters. FAA Careers in Aviation: Ms. Mary Lou Dordan contacted Dick Soucy about our part in this week long activity. This year, she plans on having two separate outings: one with the kids on July 15^th and another with the parents and teachers. This year, she has planned on having the groups come out first thing in the morning so that we do not have to wait for them to arrive. This was a fun day for the club as well as the kids. This year, we can provide hot dogs and hamburgers, soft drinks, and chips for the kids and sponsors. AMA Leader Club: Dick Soucy has this action item. So far, he reports that we comply with about 80% of the items listed for Leader Club Gold status. We should be able to get the gold status with problems as long as we follow thorough on the requirements. More to come on this in future Newsletters. Family Fun Fly and BBQ days: No dates have yet been set for a family BBQ and Fun Fly. More on this in later Newsletters. Ed Langowski reported that the annual Salem County Pig Roast and Fun Fly is set for 14 September. Green Machine Replacement: Quite a bit of discussion was held concerning the status of the Green Machine and the need to replace it with something that is both more reliable and easier to transport. Bob Stinson reported that even though it is serviceable, it frequently breaks down, and if it breaks down, it has to be fixed on the spot because it is incapable of moving onto the two trailer when it is broken down. So, several suggestions were taken in for the type of mower we should get, from a tow-around rotary type mower, to a wide deck/multiple horizontal blade setup. There will be more discussion at the next meeting.

The meeting was adjourned at 9:20 PM.

Submitted by Dick Soucy, Secretary.

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This is the latest from the TSA (Transportation Security Administration)

Lithium Batteries: Safety and Security

Lithium-ion batteries, often found in laptop computers, differ from primary lithium batteries, which are often used in cameras. Some newer AA-size batteries are also primary lithium.

While there is no explosion hazard associated with either kind of battery, the Federal Aviation Administration has studied fire hazards associated with both primary and lithium-ion cells, and their extensive research is publicly available. As a result of this research, the FAA no longer allows large, palletized shipments of these batteries to be transported as cargo on passenger aircraft. The research also shows that an explosion will not result from shorting or damaging either lithium-ion or primary lithium batteries. Both are, however, extremely flammable. Primary lithium batteries cannot be extinguished with firefighting agents normally carried on aircraft, whereas lithium-ion batteries are easily extinguished by most common extinguishing agents, including those carried on board commercial aircraft.

TSA has and will continue to work closely with the FAA on potential aviation safety and security issues, and TSA security officers are thoroughly and continually trained to find explosive threats. TSA does not have plans to change security regulations for electronic devices powered by lithium batteries.

• Keep batteries and equipment with you, or in carry-on baggage - not in your checked baggage! In the cabin, flight crew can better monitor conditions, and have access to the batteries or device if a fire does occur.
• Buy batteries from reputable sources and only use batteries approved for your device – avoid counterfeits! A counterfeit battery is more likely to cause a fire in your equipment – costing you more in the long run, and compromising safety.
• Look for the mark of an independent testing or standards organization, such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL) or International Electro-technical Commission (IEC).
• Do not carry recalled or damaged batteries on aircraft. Check battery recall information at the manufacturer's website, or at the Consumer Product Safety Commission.
• Only charge batteries which you are sure are rechargeable! Non-rechargeable batteries are not designed for recharging, and become hazardous if placed in a battery charger. A non-rechargeable battery placed in a charger may overheat or cause damage later.
• Only use a charger compatible with your rechargeable battery – don’t mix and match!
• If original packaging is not available for spare batteries, effectively insulate battery terminals by isolating the batteries from contact with other batteries and metal. Do not permit a loose battery to come in contact with metal objects, such as coins, keys, or jewelry.
• Place each battery in its own protective case, plastic bag, or package, or place tape across the battery's contacts to isolate terminals. Isolating terminals prevents short-circuiting.
• Take steps to prevent crushing, puncturing, or putting a high degree of pressure on the battery, as this can cause an internal short-circuit, resulting in overheating.
• If you must carry a battery-powered device in any baggage, package it to prevent inadvertent activation. For instance, you should pack a cordless power tool in a protective case, with a trigger lock engaged. If there is an on-off switch or a safety switch, tape it in the "off" position.

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President’s Corner

All members: Feb 2008

Thanks for your input on our first meeting of '08. I didn't mean for the meeting to go that long. My uneasiness probably showed after 9:30pm, but we were rolling on the possible Big Bird Fun Fly. This was a worthwhile, exploratory reconnaissance of the event. We touched on the Club’s interest, outside participation, safety and logistics and left it to Brian Tindall for further planning.

I look forward to future planning of club activities with maximum member involvement. It was apparent, at this meeting, that club members are doing their homework in support of club special interests.

I am happy to acknowledge that Chris Murphy has volunteered to chair the Riverbend Public Event.

Unfortunately, we never covered the possible replacement of the famous "Green Machine". I talked to Bob Stinson, who now has the mower. He agrees that it is time to replace it. Because of it's age and use one repair after another will be needed. I plan to form a new committee to look into the purchase of an adequate mower. Maybe with two towed decks? We should also look into storing the equipment on the field or on a neighbor's property, if possible. Keep your eyes open for a good, fairly late model unit and prepare your input for the Feb meeting.

This just in: Ed Milewski is now the liason officer to Forestry. Thanks to Steve Popovitch who previously served and prepared communication. Ron Lockhart and myself will be official alternates.

You can expect to be asked to do your part in club planning and operation. Rewards are: better club projects, personal notoriety, sense of accomplishment and long hours---It's worth it

"Isn't this a great hobby" President Roy Wilson

President's Corner, March 2008

With the club's many projects and situations on the table I was amazed that so few members showed up for the Feb meeting. This club doesn't run on dues money, clean air and short grass alone. We need participation, ideas, show and tell, volunteers, give and take, advice, war stories, new members and Eastern Daylight Savings Time.

Specifically, we have a busy month of March. First, bring your stuff to sell at the March Meeting. You know, "one man's junk is another RC'rs treasure"---if it's cheap. Next, try to attend one of the big area shows at Lebanon or Hamburg. If you have never been, definitely go! And most important, bring your family and friends to the Spaghetti Dinner. It was a most enjoyable event last year. The committee is planning the program, your input is needed. Any ideas, speakers? if so-contact Dick Soucy or any officer. Ed McAllister is P.O.C. for reservations, but any officer can take your request. We expect that some ideas for a replacement field mower will be offered. Your advice here is needed. Do you have any contacts? We have got to have our new machine on hand by April. Bring brochures, ads, pictures, whatever. Our goals for this year should be to go into special projects with confidence: financing, coordination, advertising, P.O.C.'s, sanctions. To get what we expect, we should know what to expect. At least as good as last year is a benchmark, but to do it in comfort is an improvement.

Roy Wilson

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From Roy Wilson on Sam12

Flyers are prepared for the 21st annual Old-timers Meet. By the time you read this the flyers have already been distributed at the WRAM Show. By Mar 22 we will have covered Lebanon and Hamburg events. Chapter members are now building rubber ships converted to Electric/RC for the Spirit of SAM event that will be added to our contest and flown at the SAM Champs. See SAM members for plans/info on participation in our Wed. night flying and other events.

Roy Wilson

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The following pilots have a Strawberry Operating Procedures sheet on file and are authorized to fly at Strawberry in accordance with those procedures. This is part of our agreement with the NJ Department of Forestry. This list is updated as of January 8, 2008. If you are not listed here, and you believe you should be, or want to be, please contact Ron Lockhart at phone or e-mail addresses in the newsletter.

Angelucci, Mark	Hadden, Bill	McGregor, Tom	Schoenrock, Arthur
Bender, Karl	Herd, Bill	Merola, William	Skwarlo, Steve
Brennenstuhl, Carl	Hestermann, Keith	Merlino, Andy	Soden, Bob
Butterly, Ed	Horn, Hans	Miller, Ed, Sr.	Soucy, Richard
Calderone, Danny	Langowski, Ed	Miller, Joe	Stinson, Bob
Callaco, Joe	Leak, Ray	Milewski, Ed	Szczepanczyk, Mario
Caruso, Joe	LeTrent, John	Misinski, Peter	Tindall, Brian
Chenman, Alan	Lockhart, Dave	Morey, Ray	Veit, Carl
Cherry, Charles	Lockhart, Ron	Murphy, Chris	Vogel, Richard
Chubb, Walter	Lodovico, Harry	Oakes, Bruce	Wallace, Richard
Doughty, Barry	Lonchambon, Andre	Passarelli, Tony	Warner, Dave
DuHamell, Charles	Maloney, Dan	Janet Pastrick	Wilson, Roy
Eiting, Dave	Maloney, David	Perkins, Tom	Womelsdorf, Al
Feaster, Elden	Manning, John	Moore, Kevin	Zebuski, John, Jr.
Geary, Walt	McAllister, Ed	Popovich, Stephen	Ziegenfus, Joe
Hackney, Bob	McFarlan, Dick	Russo, Damian	Zuccarino, John
Hackney, Joshua	McGowan, John	Schall, Michael

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Club Officers:
President:	Roy Wilson	roywilson210@verizon.net	6253472 (home)
Vice President:	Ed Langowski	rcnut123@msn.com	6251535 (home)
Secretary:	Dick Soucy	cgretired@msn.com	5132760 (cell)
Treasurer:	Ed McAllister	epooldoc@comcast.net	2140625 (home)
AMA Safety Coord:	Ron Lockhart	ronlock@comcast.net	6523959 (home)

Coordinators and Chairs:

Program Chairman Roy Wilson Strawberry: Steve Popovich Riverbend: Bob Stinson Training: Brian Tindall Sam12: Roy Wilson Pattern: Ron Lockhart Historian: Frank Impagliazzo

roywilson210@verizon.com stevenpop@cs.com 3352235 (home) rs609@comcast.net 9270439 (home) 4420741 (cell) btindall2@comcast.net 6775119 roy.wilson201@verizon.net 6253472 (home) ronlock@comcast.net 6523959 (home) soloseat2@aol.com

Newsletter Staff:

Editor: Dick Soucy cgretired@msn.com 4049416 (home) 5132760 (cell) Webmaster: Ed Milewski edmiles11@verizon.net 5670456 (home)

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Upcoming Events:

For Sky Blazers and other organizations

EVENT	Location	Club Coordinator	Start Date	End Date
WRAM show	Westchester NY County Center	Westchester Radio Modelers	22 Feb	24 Feb
Annual Spaghetti Dinner	Lions Blind Center	Ed McAlister	TBD
Pattern Primer first 3 classes only	Endicott, NY	Ron Lockhart	10 May
Pattern, All Classes	Jackson, NJ	Ron Lockhart	17 May
FAA Careers in Avaition Teachers and Parents Day	Strawberry	Dick Soucy	27 June
Mall Show	Shore Mall		TBD
Riverbend Open House	Riverbend		TBD
Large Scale	Strawberry	Brian Tindall	TBD
Pattern, All Classes	Marshalls Creek, PA	Ron Lockhart	21 June	22 June
FAA Careers in Aviation Strawberry Flight Demos	Strawberry	Dick Soucy	15 July
AMA Nationals, Pattern	Muncie, IN	Ron Lockhart	21 July	25 July
FAA Aviation Enrichment	FAA Technical Center	Dick Soucy	23 July
Symposium	(NAFEC)
Pattern, All Classes	Sayre, PA	Ron Lockhart	2 Aug	3 Aug
SAM 12 Old Timers Meet	Strawberry Field	Roy Wilson	3 August
Pattern, All Classes	Paradise NY	Ron Lockhart	16 Aug	17 Aug
Atlantic City Air Show	Atlantic City, NJ	Borgata Casino	20 Aug
Heli Gathering 2007	Strawberry Field	Bob Stinson	5 Sept	7 Sept
Pattern, All Classes	Jackson, NJ	Ron Lockhart	6 Sept	7 Sept
Ocean City Air Fest	Ocean City Airport	AC Skyblazers	TBD

For SAM even