Edition: Model Aviation - 2016/01
Page Numbers: 139
Portrait of Andy Argenio wearing a red shirt.

District I—Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Vermont

Portrait of Andy Argenio wearing a red shirt.
Andy Argenio
Vice President

brandshobby@gmail.com
3 Sheila Ln., Smithfield RI 02917
Tel.: (401) 231-6901; www.amadistrict-i.org

It’s nice that district associate vice presidents (AVPs) have a variety of aeromodeling interests. AVP Peter Galligan shares his Soaring interest in the following event report.

“Timing is everything. I arrived just in time for Friday’s pilots’ meeting, and was immediately given the opportunity to speak on behalf of the AMA. That part was easy. It was a beautiful weekend for flying, there were 33 registered pilots, and conditions were perfect for this year’s September Soar, hosted by the Green Mountain Thermal Corps, of Monkton, Vermont, September 17-20, 2015.

“Two things really stood out during this event: the friendliness of the participants, and the passion everyone shared for Soaring. Pilots hailed from throughout New England, New York, and even Ottawa, Quebec.

“The host club members really know how to run a fun event, and run it safely. No wonder it has become one of the premier Soaring events in New England. Len Buffinton, the chief tow pilot, was incredibly busy throughout the event, and not only provided tows, but talked newer pilots through the aerotow process to ensure success.

“Runways were kept clear for arriving and departing aircraft and it was quite the spectacle to watch. Even the ground crew and wing runners were professional and well-choreographed. Spectators were close enough to the action, but kept at a safe distance from the runway and pit areas.

“Whether or not you’re a Soaring enthusiast, this aerotow event is well worth the drive. Visit the website at www.rcsoaringvt.org. You’ll love it!”

If you have any special interest events at your club, why not send me a report?

Pilots gathered in a field for a meeting.
Len Buffinton and Marc Beaupré conduct the pilots’ meeting during September Soar 2015.
Len Buffinton and Marc Beaupré conduct the pilots’ meeting during September Soar 2015.

Two men prepare a sailplane for a tow launch.
Club vice president, Tony Hoffman (R), assisted pilots during their tow launches.
Club vice president, Tony Hoffman (R), assisted pilots during their tow launches.

Man carrying a large sailplane in a field.
Jeff Duhaime juggled Soaring with photography throughout the weekend.
Jeff Duhaime juggled Soaring with photography throughout the weekend.

Man beside a large orange-and-white model aircraft.
Len Buffinton used a Top Models Bidule 170 for towing.
Len Buffinton used a Top Models Bidule 170 for towing.

Large-scale sailplanes lined up in a grassy field.
The flightline was impressive, with a great variety of large-scale sailplanes.
The flightline was impressive, with a great variety of large-scale sailplanes.

Associate Vice Presidents: Steve Brehm, Jamestown RI; stb rehm@yahoo.com; Andrew Figlar, Shelton CT; figlar335@att.net. Peter Galligan, West Rutland VT; (802) 438-5370; pwgalligan@outlook.com. James Gilliatt, Concord MA; (978) 369-9796; jegilliatt@cs.com; Erik Haakonsen, Trumbull CT; (203) 816-5010; ama4295@gmail.com; Robert Kilmon, Nashua NH; (603) 594-2725; nhrepdist1@aol.com; Ray LaBonte, Maine; havefun@mainehobbies.com; Joan Liska, Middletown CT; (860) 347-0257; jliska9000@sbcglobal.net; Tom Rocheleau, Wethersfield CT 06109; (860) 280-1701; trocheleau@cox.net. Safety Coordinator: John Cartisser, Medfield MA; (508) 359-4080; jcartisser@yahoo.com; Contest Coordinator: David Surwell, 24 Norwich Rd.; Nashua NH 03062; (603) 888-2020; davidsurwell@comcast.net; Frequency Coordinator: Joel Chappell, Milford NH; (603) 673-6240; joel.b.chappell@myfairpoint.net. Webmaster: David Beach, Amherst NH; webmaster@amadistrict-i.org.