Minutes AGM Dec 2015 Meeting

Bartons Point Model Flying Club

 – Minutes of December 2015 AGM Meeting

 The 2015 AGM took place on Monday, 7th December 2015 at the Harps Inn attended by 42 members. The meeting was chaired by Dave Cook.

 Apologies for Absence –

 Mike Etheridge, George Hackman and Adrian Knowles Minutes from last meeting A printed version of the October 2015 minutes meeting was provided for member’s last minute reading and was accepted as correct.

 New Membership Applications –

 New membership applications were received from Eric Friend, Justin Lawrence, Nicholas Northwood, Ken Holmes, Carlos Hernandez and Kelly Marie Bush. All six applicants were warmly welcomed into our club.

 Correspondence –

 The secretary has received no alternate applications from members for nomination to the committee.
 The secretary announced that she has only just been informed by a member that the BMFA has increased its yearly fee to £33, too late to alter the membership renewal forms and cheques that were being presented on the evening.

 The club will not be asking members to pay the increase as they were not informed of the change. Consequently the club will subsidise the £1.00 increase. Matters Arising Dave Cook spoke about the recent vandal damage to our new field gate. Unfortunately, we do not have an immediate solution to defeat such a determined individual. It was decided to leave the gate in its current state until the Spring.

 Jan Bruce confirmed the plan for the club Christmas dinner at the Hungry Fox in Hempstead on Wednesday 16th December at 8:00 pm at a cost of £12.99 for 3 courses or £10.99 for 2 courses.


 Chairman’s Report for 2015

 Dave Cook summarised the club’s very successful year. Weather and field condition gave us a slow start as rolling of the field was essential. During March and April, rolling got started thanks to Ray Shrubshall and Peter Scanlon who devoted much time and effort into getting the field really smooth. It’s not until you do this sort of thing that you realise how large the field is.

The field was first properly cut in May which was when we really could see the improvement. The Flying Spectacular weekend turned out to be an astonishing success, enjoyed by participants,
organisers and the general public alike.

 It is considered the best Spectacular to date with the added laser lights and fireworks which were amazing. Dave and the members were all looking forward to our 2016 event. Much appreciation and thanks was extended to all those who helped organise and work before, during and after the clearly marvellous weekend.

 In August the club held its Scale Day event which was well attended. Two new judges invited by Dave Cook came and did a proper job of sorting through all the entries and flying. This was complimented by the excellent work done by Roy Hill on the selection and design of the trophies and certificates at a very reasonable price.

 In August and September, work commenced on the new field gate. This was a truly a team effort and was finally finished after much ‘tweaking’ and sweat. Unfortunately, vandals damaged the locking pin bracket.

 Dave was glad to see so many proficiency certificates achieved by members. He also reminded all members to carefully read the club rules as posted on our Blog.

 Dave Cook wished all members and their families a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.


 Treasurer’s Report

 Simon Psaila, the club treasurer, provided an overview of the club’s finances over the year. Members were circulated copies of the accounts for the year 1st December 2014 to 7th December 2015 for their perusal.

 Overall, the club accounts showed a healthy state and benefited from increased membership income and the gains from the Flying Spectacular

. Stand-Down and Re-election of the New Committee

 Dave Cook asked flying member Steve Hummel to perform the committee election procedure who accepted. The Secretary confirmed that no alternate applications for any Committee posts had been received.

 The old committee stood down. An election for each post was held. The members voted and the following is the result.

 The committee for 2016 will be: Chairman – Dave Cook Vice Chairman – Dave Redwood Secretary – Jan Bruce Treasurer – Simon Psaila Heli Rep – Adrian Packer Plane Rep – Trevor Smith Safety Officer – Adrian Knowles.
 All posts were voted on unanimously.

 Any other business

 Brian Hughes proposed a vote of thanks for the hard work and hours willingly donated by the club’s committee. Members present enthusiastically thanked and applauded the new/old committee which was gratefully appreciated.



 Meeting closed at 20:50

 Next meeting will be held on Monday 1st of February, 2016 at 8:00 p.m. at the Harps Inn.

 www.bpmfc.blogspot.co.uk WISHING YOU ALL A MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR,

Minutes October 2015 Meeting.

Bartons Point Model Flying Club – Minutes of October 2015 Meeting


 The October 2015 club meeting took place on Monday, 5th of October at the Harps Inn, Minster attended by 22 members and 5 new applicants for membership. The meeting was chaired by Dave Cook.

 Apologies for Absence: Dave Redwood, Terry Hobley Minutes from the August 2015 meeting Printed versions of the August minutes were provided for member’s last minute reading and were accepted as correct.

 New Membership Applications Five new membership applications were reviewed: Paul Heed, Gary Skipper, Paul Harris, Kevin Blakeman and Tom Lee. Their membership applications were discussed by the meeting and accepted. All five were warmly welcomed to the club.

 Correspondence Jan Bruce discussed an email which she had received from the BBC-CBBC about a Join-In Be-On_Air Show called Airmageddon looking for 9-14 year olds to take part in a drone skills contest to challenge their flying skills. See: http://www.bbc.co.uk/cbbc/joinin/airmageddon-2015-be-on-a-show Please apply to BBC website for information if you have a child who may be interested.

 Matters Arising Flying Spectacular Simon Psaila, our Club Treasurer, provided a summary and copies of our latest accounts showing that the Flying Spectacular had been successful and that due to increased membership, the club had restored its bank balance after making the field improvement investments. Jan Bruce was thanked and applauded for her excellent organisation and control of expense and revenue of the event which this year was more prominent and attended. She expressed her frustration, however, at finding out that Mandy, the manager of Barton’s Point facility, had been informed by someone, intentionally or not, about the club’s finances. This was used as leverage during the discussions on the level of fee which we pay for the use of the event field. Our finances are not for general discussion outside of the membership. What we pay for the events field is purely a business transaction. Please refrain from revealing these and other club private matters with others.

 Field Gate Dave Cook briefly reviewed the recent installation of the inner field gate. He thanked all those that helped, contributed and generally took part in a tremendous team effort to install a much needed inner protection against rogue damage.

 Safety Dave Cook highlighted some recent inattentions to our flying boundaries and the need to be disciplined in ensuring we strictly avoid flying out of area.


 Any other business Congratulations to Paul Heed and Gary Skipper on passing their BMFA “A” Certificates in style. Good work from our two new members.

 Dave Cook reminded members that, as was agreed last December at the AGM, the annual club fee will increase from £28 to £30 for the 2016 renewals. Jan Bruce mentioned that she had the new renewal forms in paper for the convenience of those members without computer email or printing facilities. All other members will receive the 2016 renewal forms with the next newsletter.

 December AGM Members were reminded of the upcoming AGM to be held on Monday 7th December and that if any member would like to be considered for a place on the committee that they need to inform the club Secretary by post or email no later than 7th November. As customary, all posts will be up for nomination and voting.

 Club Christmas Dinner Jan Bruce is proposing we hold a Club Christmas Dinner during December assuming there is enough interest. She has established a reasonable cost and location at the Hempstead Valley Shopping area at the Hungry Fox Pub for £12.99 a head. We will need to pay a deposit of £10 per head on booking. Please email or call Jan to let her know if you are interested so that she can establish a date and confirm a booking.

Club Equipment Storage Peter Bruce raised the subject of club equipment storage. For many years now, Dave Cook has kindly managed to store most of the club’s materials and equipment in his garden shed which is now very dilapidated and literally bulging. The protective state of the shed now risks allowing damage to its content which the club owns. After some discussion, members voted in favour of the purchase of a new shed to adequately protect our assets. Dave Cook and Peter Bruce would source and install the shed.

 Meeting closed at 20:35 Next meeting and AGM will be held on Monday 7th of December, 2015 at 8:00 p.m. at the Harps Inn.

 www.bpmfc.blogspot.co.uk

Minutes August 2015 Meeting.

Bartons Point Model Flying Club – Minutes of August 2015 Meeting

The August 2015 club meeting took place on Monday, 3rd of August at the Harps Inn, Minster attended by 17 members and 3 new applicants for membership.
The meeting was chaired by Dave Redwood as Dave Cook was running late.

Apologies for Absence: Dave Cook 10 minutes late
Minutes from the June 2015 meeting
Printed versions of the June minutes were provided for member’s last minute reading and were accepted as correct.

New Membership Applications
Three new membership applications were reviewed. The first was for Kieran Jones (17 junior), who is new to RC aircraft after trying RC cars, with his parents in attendance for his application.  The second was for Fred Turner who has modelled for 30 plus years.  The third was for Terry Copland who has occasionally flown over recent years and wants to devote more time to the hobby.  All three applicants were warmly welcomed into our club after a show-of-hands vote.
Correspondence
Jan Bruce, club secretary has been contacted by a Miss Laura Turner via email enquiring over whether the club and its members would like to participate in a static display at the Sheppey Sports Club on Sunday 23rd of August in aid of the Charity for Alopicia.
Matters Arising
Flying Spectacular
Following all the time and effort in organising the event and simultaneous family commitments, Jan Bruce apologised for not having had time to prepare and handover the event accounts to the club treasurer.  However, she informed members that this year costs for the event have been somewhat higher than past year’s due to higher charges for the field, extra toilets, advertising and special effects.
The weekend turned out to be an astonishing success, enjoyed by participants, organisers and the general public alike.  It is considered the best Spectacular to date with the added laser lights and fireworks which were amazing.  Our special thanks go to Simon Wood, Colin, Azza, Sonny, Steve and Vid for their participation.  In particular, a great big THANK YOU to Dave, Robin and Don who manned the ‘bring-and-buy’ stand while at the same time managing to do an excellent job in selling our raffle tickets.  Also worthy of note, was Trevor’s unstinting job of keeping the toilets properly serviced which Jan appreciated.  Not to be forgotten are the Flight Line managers, Dave and Adrian, who stood for many hours on both days’ assisted by Dave and Mark on the slot board.  Thanks also to those who that helped with the setup and take down.
However, one disappointment was the no-show volunteer helpers who were needed for the many jobs and for the Try-and-Fly event where we only had two pilots.
The 2016 show was discussed at the meeting and members were asked if they would support it again.  This was enthusiastically endorsed and it will be timed for the second weekend in July as previously held.
Scale Day
The club scale day was held on Sunday 2nd.   There was a good turn out with some amazing models.  Dave ???? who represents Evolution Models came to judge the competition and was helped by Stephen Lines who did a great and calm job.  Members thanked them both.  Certificates and Cups were handed out to the winners.  At tonights meeting Robin was awarded the best static model class prize for his amazing Bleriot Mono.
Extra Field Gate
Arrangements have now been made to install a supplementary gate at the entrance to our flying field as a precaution against damage from errant vehicles and caravans.  Ray and Dave have done the organisation and sourcing of affordable steel parts.  They would appreciate volunteers for the installation which should go ahead this weekend.  If the weather is good just turn up.
Any other business
Raffle Tickets – RC Hotel Prize
Jan Bruce explained the raffle prize offer of a week’s accommodation with breakfast for two at the RC Hotel in Corfu. The tickets were on sale at the show and Jan wanted to give members one more chance to try their luck.  This was drawn the following day and was won by Simon Wood who bought his ticket at the Spectacular. A video of the draw is on the blog.

Club Blog
Members were reminded by Dave Redwood of the enormous help and information which is available on the club blog.  All current information can be found on the blog.  Members are encouraged to insert interesting posts and also to participate in the comments sections.  This all helps in creating a better club culture and knowledge.
Meeting closed at 20:36

Next meeting will be held on Monday 5th of October, 2015 at 8:00 p.m. at the Harps Inn.

www.bpmfc.blogspot.co.uk

Minutes of April 2015 Meeting

Bartons Point Model Flying Club – Minutes of April 2015 Meeting

The April 2015 club meeting took place on Tuesday, 7th at the Harps Inn, Minster attended by 22 members.
The meeting was chaired by Dave Cook.

Apologies for Absence – Vaughan Richardson, Adrian Knowles and Peter Bruce.

Minutes from the February 2015 meeting
Printed versions of the February minutes were provided for member’s last minute reading and were accepted as correct.

New Membership Applications

Membership applications were reviewed for Neville Stringer (husband of member Maretta) and Linda Smith (wife of member Trevor).  Both applicants were warmly welcomed into our club after a show-of-hands vote.  This now means more female members helping to enlarge our diverse membership further.

(Membership is given subject to payment).

Correspondence

Phil Fearn from the Medway Model Flying Club has informed us that they have been asked to support a model flying display at Brogdale Farm, near Faversham, post code ME13 8XZ on weekend of May 16 & 17th.  He has asked us to see if any of our members would also be interested in participating in either flying or static display.  Pilots do not need to be B certified but must be competent and safe flyers. Only small or medium sized fixed wing may be flown due to the size limitations of the field.  Helicopters of any size will be allowed. Static models especially scale would be great.  Anyone who thinks they can participate on any of the two days should contact him on 01795 476535 or email him at pfiwade@blueyonder.co.uk. Any help would be appreciated.  They will also be collecting for the KSS Air Ambulance during the show.

Matters Arising

Dave Cook updated the members on the improving condition of the field following the  levelling carried out in October.  Since the meeting the field has been rolled extensively thanks to many hours of work by Club members.  Adrian Knowles  managed to get use of two towing vehicles to pull the club rollers which performed superbly. Also thanks to Dave Redwood and Ray Hermitage along with the help of Peter Scanlan.  Pictures have been posted on the Blog. Our thanks to those involved.

Dave Cook explained the plans for this year’s Fly In Spectacular which this year will be held on the weekend of July 18^th and 19^th.

As usual, the event organiser Jan is looking for enthusiastic helpers and volunteers to cover the myriad of jobs up to and during the event. Thanks to those on the night who offered to help.

The farmer where we display the Fly in Spectacular sign has already booked out the space, As a result a vote was taken and showed in favour of getting some new signage, basically bright orange paper ,baton and some backing board. Any Sign writers out there? 

Dave Cook briefed the meeting on plans for the 2015 Club Scale Day.  This will be held on one of the Saturdays during August as and when good weather is anticipated. Please keep an eye on the Blog for information.

Any other business

Members agreed to invite Medway and Sittingbourne clubs to attend a separate Scale Day at Bartons Point. Please keep an eye on the Blog for information.

Dave reminded members that all models must be noise tested by one of the designated committee members before first-to-field flying or have been engine modified this is an SBC request.  A log is then produced for club records.  Please identify your model to a committee member on arrival at the field. Club members can borrow the Club noise testing kit to check their models prior.

Brian Hughes covered recommendations on the subject of receiver batteries on sub- 20Kg models.  There have been some instances of flyers not understanding voltage/charge characteristics on LiPo, NiMh and LiFe types of batteries on these mid-weight planes.  It is important to read the manufacturers recommendations on charging and charge ratings.  These types of batteries do not drop voltage gradually and will maintain nominal ‘good’ charge voltages right up to the last 10% to 20%, when it is essential to re-charge.  A good way to check for true level of charge is to check the voltage under load.  There are many battery checkers on the market that will place a small variable load on a battery while reading the voltage to give a truer charge level.  It is recommended that these be used habitually for receiver applications.

Nb.  Driving onto the field.

Can everyone make their turning circle at the end of the field as tight as possible.

Meeting closed at 20:50

Next meeting will be held on Monday 1^st of June, 2015 at 8:00 p.m. at the Harps Inn.

www.bpmfc.blogspot.co.uk

Minutes of February 2015 Meeting

Bartons Point Model Flying Club – Minutes of February 2015 Meeting

The February 2015 club meeting took place on Monday, 2nd at the Harps Inn, Minster attended by 21 members.
The meeting was chaired by Dave Cook.

Apologies for Absence – Peter Scanlon, Vaughan Richardson, Adrian Knowles and Peter Bruce.

Minutes from the December 2015 AGM meeting
Printed versions of the December AGM minutes were provided for member’s last minute reading and were accepted as correct.

New Membership Applications

Membership applications were reviewed for Darren Brock (Ex Thamesmead Club), Carlos Cayuela (fixed wing), Richard Hobson (fixed wing, glider and now also helicopter) and Sheila Eddy (We all know Sheila and she is joining to augment the two other female flyers in the club which should make the club more diverse and encourage more to join).  All four applicants were warmly welcomed into our club.

Correspondence - None

Matters Arising

Dave Cook updated the members on the current condition of the field following the ploughing and levelling carried out in October.  It is still fairly wet but headed in the right direction.  As soon as the conditions and weather permit, rolling will begin. Members are all eagerly waiting for the big day when flying can commence for the season.

Any other business

Dave Cook explained the plans for this year’s Fly In Spectacular.  Normally, the club holds the event on the second weekend of July, but it has been pointed out that it clashes with the Kent Show and reduces potential attendance from people in the area.  Therefore, the Fly In Spectacular will now be held on the third weekend of July.  So we are going for the weekend of 18^th and 19^th of July. The field has been booked for the new dates.  Camping charges will remain the same ie: £12.00 per tent and £15.00 per caravan for 2 nights (Friday and Saturday). People wishing to stay on the Sunday evening will be asked to pay an extra £5.00 to cover the cost of the field.  Members agreed that if it was felt necessary Jan could book 3 portaloos. It is also highly likely that with the change in dates, we will also have professional model aircraft pilots and their planes attending too!  Details will follow in due course.

Dave Cook and Roy Hill, briefed the meeting on their plans for the 2015 Club Scale Day.  It is intended to be arranged so as to be a not too serious fun day.  With aircraft entered as before and after 1939, static and flying.  Judging will be on the basis of general presentation and working features coupled with flying within the real characteristics of the original plane.  Possible planned dates to be advised.

Meeting closed at 20:40

Next meeting will be held on Tuesday 7^th of April, 2015 at 8:00 p.m. at the Harps Inn.

www.bpmfc.blogspot.co.uk