Dave Deacon reported on a weekend fly-in held in Maryland.
On September 14-15, 2013, Prince George’s Radio Control Club (PGRC) from Upper Marlboro, Maryland, held its 21st Annual Big Bird/War Bird Fly-In.
With approximately 60 aircraft participating, it looked like the club’s efforts to gradually expand this event paid off. Advertising through local newspapers and new road signs brought in a large number of spectators and pilots. The club raffled FF foam gliders, a Giant Scale CAP 232, and a Spektrum DX8 (donated by GPA Hobbies in Crofton, Maryland).
CD Rick Moreland wowed the crowd with his 120-inch Balsa USA Stearman, built by the late Philip Ratcliffe of Easton. Rick’s wife, Lori, came up with the idea to offer commemorative photos of participants with their model at no cost. This was a huge hit! Photos were printed on the spot with a printer powered by one of PGRC’s solar-charging stations.
Alan Goodman, club president, took advantage of Sunday’s weather by enjoying some fine Scale flights with his kit-built Great Planes 102-inch Stinson with Scale Stits covering. An Army veteran, Alan is responsible for maintaining PGRC’s great relationship with the Maryland-National Capital Parks and Planning Commission, which owns the field that the club enjoys. This facility includes a 400-foot asphalt runway, an 800-foot grass strip, and plenty of spectator and pit parking, providing ample room for large events.
Spectators and pilots expressed their enjoyment of the two-day event, and complimented the club on our flying facility and member hospitality. We even had a few new members join PGRC.
The club is already planning for next year’s event. Be sure to mark your calendar for PGRC’s 2014 Big Bird/War Bird Fly-In in September. You won’t want to miss it.
