FF Scale - 2012/03

ff scale
www.ModelAviation.com March 2012 Model Aviation 127
For years, the FAC informed
competitors of their contest numbers
as they paid their entrance fees. This
year, contest numbers were assigned
as usual but, at registration, each
contestant was given two stickers
bearing the contestant’s number
and name. The idea was to wear one
sticker for each day of the contest.
This simplified identification and
helped distinguish contestants in
photos.
Previously, the FAC recorded
results on large placards. Hours were
spent tallying the handwritten data to
determine winners and placers. This
year, the Maxecuters used computers
to record results and to determine
event winners. Stew Meyers and the
Maxecuters reported results at the end
of each event. At the end of the contest,
results were already tallied and awards
were presented on the field at the close
of the contest.
Before the contest, the FAC presented
a new FAC document—the Pilot’s Pre-
Launch Checklist (PPLC)—developed
as a replacement for the “45-pointminimum”
rule used in previous FAC
Mass Launch events.
The PPLC clarifies a model’s
specifications needed to compete. If
the model varies from the PPLC, the
builder must be prepared to justify
the variance with three-views or other
documentation. The PPLC eliminates
ambiguity in the Mass Launch events.
It can be downloaded from the FAC
website (see “Sources”).
Accommodations
2011 Non-Nats participants and their
families and friends had an excellent
choice of accommodations. Some opted
to camp on the flying field. Others
stayed in comfortable dorm rooms at
the nearby Geneseo University. Many
enjoyed the comforts of the Quality Inn
or fine hotels in the Geneseo area.
The Non-Nats elected not to use
the facilities of the Geneseo Inn for
the Static judging, which was met
with mixed feelings. Scale judging was
held in one of the large hangars of the
Historical Aircraft Group, the owners of
the flying field.
Accommodations in the hangar were
The 2011 Flying Aces Club (FAC) Non-Nats was held in Geneseo,
New York, on July 13-15. In a stroke of brilliance, the FAC
commissioned the DC Maxecuters, one of the FAC’s oldest and
most successful clubs, to conduct this year’s gathering. Renowned for
the depth and breadth of its membership and for embracing modern
technology to conduct and report on contests, the Maxecuters brought
fresh ideas and new life to Geneseo.
PLUS:
> Gift ideas from FAC
vendors at the Non-
Nats
Tom Nallen II’s Dorand AR soars overhead with its inner structure
illuminated, during the 2011 Genesco FAC Non-Nats. Simpers photo.
Dennis Norman’s S.E.5a sits on display at the 2011 Non-Nats event. Semi-kitted by Air Ace in
Walnut and Peanut sizes, the covering is preprinted on Esaki tissue. Peter Zbasnik Jr. photo.
Geneseo Lite: different,
but great!
by Dennis Norman
[email protected], but adequate. There was no air
conditioning and hangar doors had to
be opened for cross ventilation. Because
the weather was pleasant, this gave
some relief from the heat. Vendors
displayed their offerings on rough
tables. Scale judges had tables and
chairs and several large tables were set
up for contestants to park their models
while waiting to be judged.
The hangar had several full-scale
aircraft on display, which delighted
this gathering of aviation buffs. FAC
is considering using the hangar for
the 2012 FAC Nats, but it does not
compare well with the air-conditioned
comfort at Geneseo Inn, especially if
there is inclement weather.
In another major break from FAC
tradition, there was no closing banquet
at the Geneseo Inn. A number of
people expressed disappointment
at the loss of a comfortable final
gathering, with a delicious meal and
an opportunity to review the contest’s
highlights. FAC fellowship has always
been strengthened by the closing
banquets. Happily, it will be reinstated
in 2012.
Eliminating the closing banquet was
offset by FAC spontaneity, creativity,
and generosity. On the evening of
Thursday, July 14, a bonfire was built
at the flying field and everyone was
welcome.
A colorfully attired Richard Gorman holds his Mr.
Smoothie Racer, which flew, but did not place, in
the FAC Greve Race. Zbasnik photo.
Above: Matt King’s
intricate 1911 Avro
Triplane is carefully
removed from its mobile
“hangar” for the Pioneer
event. Zbasnik photo.
Right: Russ Brown (aka
“Max duBlue” and “The
Blue Fox”) attended this
year’s Non-Nats in full
FAC uniform, complete
with the famous medal,
which is probably
responsible for some of
his nicknames. Zbasnik
photo.The evening was perfect with a full
moon illuminating the field. Winds died
down and the air cooled enough to make
sweaters and light jackets advisable. Food
and drink appeared and ribs, steaks, and
chicken sizzled on barbecue grills.
Those present enjoyed the fellowship
around the campfire until late in the
evening. Not everyone knew of the
gathering, so it was not as all-inclusive
as a banquet, but it certainly gave a
wonderful evening to those who were
fortunate enough to attend.
Great Flying
The flying was magnificent! CD Dave
Mitchell, with the help of his bullhorn
and loyal crew, orchestrated everything
perfectly. Geneseo was sun-drenched
and blessed with thermal-filled skies on
both days. Some of the thermals lasted
for minutes and were so gentle that they
deposited the models within a few feet
of their launch points.
While flying the new ½-scale
Wakefield event, Dave Pishnery and
Don Srull watched helplessly as their
models soared up and flew nearly a mile.
While their models were being retrieved,
Dave produced his voluminous list of
Wakefield subjects and he and Don
poured over the list and considered
future possibilities. Don won the ½-scale
Wakefield event with his Swedish Wake;
Dave placed second with his ½-scale
1951 Keith Horry. The British still fly
Wakefield, and the 70-year-old Keith
Horry design always does well.
FAC News editor, Rich Weber, only
participated in three events each day.
He spent much time helping others and
visiting with newcomers and seasoned
veterans, but he won FAC Rubber Scale
with his Yak BB-22, FAC Golden AgeMilitary Scale with his D.H. 29, and the
FAC Thompson Trophy Race with his
Simplex Racer. Rich successfully mixed
serious competition with geniality.
I enjoyed the relaxed atmosphere of
the Non-Nats and spent considerable
time with newcomers such as Jim
Wiggin, the new associate editor for
Flying Models. Wiggin has fl own RC
and worked in the hobby industry
for years. When he saw FAC eventcoverage in publications and heard of
the open friendliness and fellowship that
characterize FAC gatherings, he came to
Geneseo.
Jim brought several FF models,
including a Retro RC News Flash, an
enlarged version of the famed Phantom
Flash ROG stick model. Unfamiliar
with FF trimming, Jim quickly learned
how to adjust his model to achieve
spectacular fl ights.
Jim also enjoyed fl ying one of Air
Ace’s Phantom Flash IIs, which feature
the Phantom Flash ROG wing and tail
with double covering and a built-up
fuselage. He watched in amazement as
FACers fl ew everything from simple
stick models to highly complex,
multiwinged and multiengined subjects.
My participation in the Non-Nats was
eased considerably by the help of Peter
Zbasnik Jr., a 20-year-old college student
whom I have known since he was born.
Peter impressed many FACers with
his helpfulness and his enthusiasm. He
brought his digital camera and took 237
pictures of the activities. I’ve included
many of his pictures.
Peter aspires to go out west as a forest
ranger when he graduates from college. I
have no doubt that he will be successful,
but I will miss him.
Peter’s father, Peter Zbasnik Sr., isalso a fi ne modeler and a longtime FAC
participant. He was unable to attend
the Non-Nats because of his successful
contractor business. I hope he will be
able to come to the 2012 FAC Nats and
join in the fun.
Vendor Participation
As with other aspects of this year’s
event, vendor participation was down.
Notables such as Lee Campbell
and Dan and Carol Kane (Shorty’s
Basement) were absent. AMA’s 75th
Anniversary celebration in Muncie,
Indiana, attracted them and several
other FAC stalwarts, but several FAC
vendors came to Geneseo.
Alan Cohen (doing business as
Hobby Specialties) presented a dazzling
display of items, including hand-carved
propellers, custom-made wire wheels,
fi ve weight categories of beautiful strip
balsa, and DT components. Alan and his
children camped on the fl ying fi eld and
cooked their meals on-site.
Air Ace Models and the Cleveland
Free Flight Society had displays next
to Alan’s. Air Ace presented its latest
offering: the Born Loser P-6E, which
was built from a Shorty’s Basement
laser kit modifi ed to resemble a P-6E.
The preprinted covering for the Born
Loser is based on the colorful SnowOwl markings of the Curtiss P-6E
Hawks of the 17th Pursuit Squadron, 1st
Pursuit Group based at Selfridge Field,
Michigan, in the 1930s. The prototype
BL P-6E was completed after the Non-
Nats and is a handsome eye-catcher.
Russ Brown presented a generous
offering of the latest Crosswinds
newsletters, featuring new plans,
histories, and full-color documentation.
Crosswinds is one of the oldest and best
newsletters and is getting even better
with modern technology.
Dave Diels and John Regalbuto also
graced this year’s Non-Nats with their
latest products. Dave and his wife,
Anita, relocated to Oregon, Ohio (near
Toledo), to be closer to their children
and grandchildren. Dave has updated
his superb selection of 1:24-scale
kits, many of which feature laser-cut
parts. Among Dave’s latest is a 20¾-
inch span, laser-cut SBD-3/5. John
continues offering his wonderful line
of FF specialty products, including an
unbelievable new thrust bearing.
Dave Niedzielski, of Easy Built
Models (EBM), continues to improve
his line of kits with high-quality balsa,
well-executed plans, tissue coverings,
and markings. EBM’s offerings were on
prominent display and measured up well
against some the FAC’s fi nest, one-of-akind
originals.
EBM’s latest, a 23½-inch span version
of the Erie Daily Times Junior Pilot
(kit# FF-92LC) is capable of ROG
takeoffs and fl ights exceeding 2 minutes.
It has CAD-drawn plans, laser-cut balsa,
tissue covering, TissueCal logos, and
FAI rubber. It sells for $23.24, plus $8
shipping and handling.Cafe Press
The FAC has announced its new
online store at Cafe Press. Quality
items sent to your door! All profi ts go
to the FAC and will be used to support
FAC activities.
See you at the 2012 FAC Nats!

ff scale
www.ModelAviation.com March 2012 Model Aviation 127
For years, the FAC informed
competitors of their contest numbers
as they paid their entrance fees. This
year, contest numbers were assigned
as usual but, at registration, each
contestant was given two stickers
bearing the contestant’s number
and name. The idea was to wear one
sticker for each day of the contest.
This simplified identification and
helped distinguish contestants in
photos.
Previously, the FAC recorded
results on large placards. Hours were
spent tallying the handwritten data to
determine winners and placers. This
year, the Maxecuters used computers
to record results and to determine
event winners. Stew Meyers and the
Maxecuters reported results at the end
of each event. At the end of the contest,
results were already tallied and awards
were presented on the field at the close
of the contest.
Before the contest, the FAC presented
a new FAC document—the Pilot’s Pre-
Launch Checklist (PPLC)—developed
as a replacement for the “45-pointminimum”
rule used in previous FAC
Mass Launch events.
The PPLC clarifies a model’s
specifications needed to compete. If
the model varies from the PPLC, the
builder must be prepared to justify
the variance with three-views or other
documentation. The PPLC eliminates
ambiguity in the Mass Launch events.
It can be downloaded from the FAC
website (see “Sources”).
Accommodations
2011 Non-Nats participants and their
families and friends had an excellent
choice of accommodations. Some opted
to camp on the flying field. Others
stayed in comfortable dorm rooms at
the nearby Geneseo University. Many
enjoyed the comforts of the Quality Inn
or fine hotels in the Geneseo area.
The Non-Nats elected not to use
the facilities of the Geneseo Inn for
the Static judging, which was met
with mixed feelings. Scale judging was
held in one of the large hangars of the
Historical Aircraft Group, the owners of
the flying field.
Accommodations in the hangar were
The 2011 Flying Aces Club (FAC) Non-Nats was held in Geneseo,
New York, on July 13-15. In a stroke of brilliance, the FAC
commissioned the DC Maxecuters, one of the FAC’s oldest and
most successful clubs, to conduct this year’s gathering. Renowned for
the depth and breadth of its membership and for embracing modern
technology to conduct and report on contests, the Maxecuters brought
fresh ideas and new life to Geneseo.
PLUS:
> Gift ideas from FAC
vendors at the Non-
Nats
Tom Nallen II’s Dorand AR soars overhead with its inner structure
illuminated, during the 2011 Genesco FAC Non-Nats. Simpers photo.
Dennis Norman’s S.E.5a sits on display at the 2011 Non-Nats event. Semi-kitted by Air Ace in
Walnut and Peanut sizes, the covering is preprinted on Esaki tissue. Peter Zbasnik Jr. photo.
Geneseo Lite: different,
but great!
by Dennis Norman
[email protected], but adequate. There was no air
conditioning and hangar doors had to
be opened for cross ventilation. Because
the weather was pleasant, this gave
some relief from the heat. Vendors
displayed their offerings on rough
tables. Scale judges had tables and
chairs and several large tables were set
up for contestants to park their models
while waiting to be judged.
The hangar had several full-scale
aircraft on display, which delighted
this gathering of aviation buffs. FAC
is considering using the hangar for
the 2012 FAC Nats, but it does not
compare well with the air-conditioned
comfort at Geneseo Inn, especially if
there is inclement weather.
In another major break from FAC
tradition, there was no closing banquet
at the Geneseo Inn. A number of
people expressed disappointment
at the loss of a comfortable final
gathering, with a delicious meal and
an opportunity to review the contest’s
highlights. FAC fellowship has always
been strengthened by the closing
banquets. Happily, it will be reinstated
in 2012.
Eliminating the closing banquet was
offset by FAC spontaneity, creativity,
and generosity. On the evening of
Thursday, July 14, a bonfire was built
at the flying field and everyone was
welcome.
A colorfully attired Richard Gorman holds his Mr.
Smoothie Racer, which flew, but did not place, in
the FAC Greve Race. Zbasnik photo.
Above: Matt King’s
intricate 1911 Avro
Triplane is carefully
removed from its mobile
“hangar” for the Pioneer
event. Zbasnik photo.
Right: Russ Brown (aka
“Max duBlue” and “The
Blue Fox”) attended this
year’s Non-Nats in full
FAC uniform, complete
with the famous medal,
which is probably
responsible for some of
his nicknames. Zbasnik
photo.The evening was perfect with a full
moon illuminating the field. Winds died
down and the air cooled enough to make
sweaters and light jackets advisable. Food
and drink appeared and ribs, steaks, and
chicken sizzled on barbecue grills.
Those present enjoyed the fellowship
around the campfire until late in the
evening. Not everyone knew of the
gathering, so it was not as all-inclusive
as a banquet, but it certainly gave a
wonderful evening to those who were
fortunate enough to attend.
Great Flying
The flying was magnificent! CD Dave
Mitchell, with the help of his bullhorn
and loyal crew, orchestrated everything
perfectly. Geneseo was sun-drenched
and blessed with thermal-filled skies on
both days. Some of the thermals lasted
for minutes and were so gentle that they
deposited the models within a few feet
of their launch points.
While flying the new ½-scale
Wakefield event, Dave Pishnery and
Don Srull watched helplessly as their
models soared up and flew nearly a mile.
While their models were being retrieved,
Dave produced his voluminous list of
Wakefield subjects and he and Don
poured over the list and considered
future possibilities. Don won the ½-scale
Wakefield event with his Swedish Wake;
Dave placed second with his ½-scale
1951 Keith Horry. The British still fly
Wakefield, and the 70-year-old Keith
Horry design always does well.
FAC News editor, Rich Weber, only
participated in three events each day.
He spent much time helping others and
visiting with newcomers and seasoned
veterans, but he won FAC Rubber Scale
with his Yak BB-22, FAC Golden AgeMilitary Scale with his D.H. 29, and the
FAC Thompson Trophy Race with his
Simplex Racer. Rich successfully mixed
serious competition with geniality.
I enjoyed the relaxed atmosphere of
the Non-Nats and spent considerable
time with newcomers such as Jim
Wiggin, the new associate editor for
Flying Models. Wiggin has fl own RC
and worked in the hobby industry
for years. When he saw FAC eventcoverage in publications and heard of
the open friendliness and fellowship that
characterize FAC gatherings, he came to
Geneseo.
Jim brought several FF models,
including a Retro RC News Flash, an
enlarged version of the famed Phantom
Flash ROG stick model. Unfamiliar
with FF trimming, Jim quickly learned
how to adjust his model to achieve
spectacular fl ights.
Jim also enjoyed fl ying one of Air
Ace’s Phantom Flash IIs, which feature
the Phantom Flash ROG wing and tail
with double covering and a built-up
fuselage. He watched in amazement as
FACers fl ew everything from simple
stick models to highly complex,
multiwinged and multiengined subjects.
My participation in the Non-Nats was
eased considerably by the help of Peter
Zbasnik Jr., a 20-year-old college student
whom I have known since he was born.
Peter impressed many FACers with
his helpfulness and his enthusiasm. He
brought his digital camera and took 237
pictures of the activities. I’ve included
many of his pictures.
Peter aspires to go out west as a forest
ranger when he graduates from college. I
have no doubt that he will be successful,
but I will miss him.
Peter’s father, Peter Zbasnik Sr., isalso a fi ne modeler and a longtime FAC
participant. He was unable to attend
the Non-Nats because of his successful
contractor business. I hope he will be
able to come to the 2012 FAC Nats and
join in the fun.
Vendor Participation
As with other aspects of this year’s
event, vendor participation was down.
Notables such as Lee Campbell
and Dan and Carol Kane (Shorty’s
Basement) were absent. AMA’s 75th
Anniversary celebration in Muncie,
Indiana, attracted them and several
other FAC stalwarts, but several FAC
vendors came to Geneseo.
Alan Cohen (doing business as
Hobby Specialties) presented a dazzling
display of items, including hand-carved
propellers, custom-made wire wheels,
fi ve weight categories of beautiful strip
balsa, and DT components. Alan and his
children camped on the fl ying fi eld and
cooked their meals on-site.
Air Ace Models and the Cleveland
Free Flight Society had displays next
to Alan’s. Air Ace presented its latest
offering: the Born Loser P-6E, which
was built from a Shorty’s Basement
laser kit modifi ed to resemble a P-6E.
The preprinted covering for the Born
Loser is based on the colorful SnowOwl markings of the Curtiss P-6E
Hawks of the 17th Pursuit Squadron, 1st
Pursuit Group based at Selfridge Field,
Michigan, in the 1930s. The prototype
BL P-6E was completed after the Non-
Nats and is a handsome eye-catcher.
Russ Brown presented a generous
offering of the latest Crosswinds
newsletters, featuring new plans,
histories, and full-color documentation.
Crosswinds is one of the oldest and best
newsletters and is getting even better
with modern technology.
Dave Diels and John Regalbuto also
graced this year’s Non-Nats with their
latest products. Dave and his wife,
Anita, relocated to Oregon, Ohio (near
Toledo), to be closer to their children
and grandchildren. Dave has updated
his superb selection of 1:24-scale
kits, many of which feature laser-cut
parts. Among Dave’s latest is a 20¾-
inch span, laser-cut SBD-3/5. John
continues offering his wonderful line
of FF specialty products, including an
unbelievable new thrust bearing.
Dave Niedzielski, of Easy Built
Models (EBM), continues to improve
his line of kits with high-quality balsa,
well-executed plans, tissue coverings,
and markings. EBM’s offerings were on
prominent display and measured up well
against some the FAC’s fi nest, one-of-akind
originals.
EBM’s latest, a 23½-inch span version
of the Erie Daily Times Junior Pilot
(kit# FF-92LC) is capable of ROG
takeoffs and fl ights exceeding 2 minutes.
It has CAD-drawn plans, laser-cut balsa,
tissue covering, TissueCal logos, and
FAI rubber. It sells for $23.24, plus $8
shipping and handling.Cafe Press
The FAC has announced its new
online store at Cafe Press. Quality
items sent to your door! All profi ts go
to the FAC and will be used to support
FAC activities.
See you at the 2012 FAC Nats!