2007
National Point Standings
CLICK HERE

SPA CONTEST RESULTS FOR 2007
As always, where pictures are present click on the picture for a larger view.

CULLMAN, AL – November 17-28 2007

What appears to be the last contest of a long season was just completed this weekend, October 26th through 28th, 2007. Once again, CD Steve Byrum ran a smooth and competitive event, with a total of 28 pilots competing in the four classes. There were 14 competing in Novice, 8 in Sportsman, 4 in expert, and 2 in Senior Expert. Our talented and very competitive PIO, Bruce Underwood, was missing from the weekend due to his donating a small part of his left hand to one of TopNotchTrophies’ customer’s prize. We missed Bruce’s companionship and fine flying. On the good side of things, Dennis Hunt was back in the “hunt” after a summer and fall of health issues. I am happy to report that Dennis is recovering, and it was great to see him, Margaret and their son Barry at the contest.

Friday, arrival day for most of us, was rather cold, gray and windy. Never the less, there was quite a bit of practice activity as pilots tried out the new Cullman grass runway. Saturday dawned cold and cloudy, which permitted flying a bit earlier than if the sun was shining, as the flight line faces east. After a fine invocation by Scott “The Rev” Sappington and the National Anthem sung by LeAnn Rimes (via recording, not in person), flying got under way. With the wind blowing mostly down the runway, all flying was from right to left for the entire contest. The pilots handled the wind very well, as one of only two only mishaps in Saturday’s 4 rounds was when the crack of a Daddy Rabbit cart wheeling down the runway on landing was heard. The other mishap came when two pilots were on the same 72 MHz frequency at the same time, and Randy Roberts’ beautiful Curare hit the deck shortly after takeoff. Randy continued the contest flying Robbie Walkers (almost) identical Curare – check the results elsewhere for the ultimate insult in R/C Pattern flying! Robbie was very generous in loaning his bird to a competitor (but also good friend).

We took a break from pattern competition Saturday afternoon, when CD Steve introduced Barry Hunt to the assembled crowd. Barry proceeded to put on a superb demonstration of flying pattern maneuvers with a 40-inch span electric powered Vanquish. We could hear the soft whir of the electric motor and 10-5e prop as Barry flew a free-style schedule of maneuvers, some from the SPA book others from AMA pattern, FAI, and some even of Barry’s invention. By the time Barry flew, the sun had come out, there were puffy clouds in the sky, the wind had died down, and it was a beautiful late autumn afternoon. Flying in the fourth round took place in near-perfect conditions. The conditions were so good that the top three in Sportsman were separated by less that 13 normalized points: Jim Rogers 1000.00, Warren Oliver 999.157, and Phil Spelt 987.352. The same round scores for Experts were Randy Roberts 1000.00, Robbie Walker 995.146, and those were not the closest scores for those two pilots in this event.

Sunday dawned sunny and windy. Novice pilots flew both remaining rounds, Sportsmen flew round 5, and the two expert classes passed on Sunday flying. The winds Sunday definitely had an effect on the raw scores, but the only mishap on Sunday was not due to wind: Richard Witts’s 8-year-old Daddy Rabbit crossed paths with Dan Dougherty’s “experienced” Dirty Birdie (on it’s 3rd fuse rebuild at that point). The DR suffered only minor damage to the left landing gear, which hit the fuselage of the DB and severed it in front of the tail. The DB hit off in the woods south of the runway, but was recovered for the equipment in it. At the end of activities on Sunday, Steve Byrum and SPA’s newest member, Anthony Boggi, distributed the hardware, and everyone went on their way. Anthony, who is a chef and part-time helper in Sid Austin’s Pyramid Hobbies, had his beautiful new Bridi Escape on display (see picture elsewhere). Anthony expects to campaign this newly-built bird in SPA next year. I should mention that Anthony was representing Sid Austin, owner of Pyramid Hobbies, who is recovering well from surgery in the Duke University Hospital. So, we finish up the 2007 season with a great event, and have lots to look forward to in the 2008 season! Y’all come…

Phil Spelt

SENIOR EXPERT
1.	Ed Hartley 4000	Knoxville, TN
2.	Dennis Hunt 2562 Flew Three Rounds	Oak Ridge, TN
EXPERT
1.	Randy Roberts 4000	Cullman, AL
2.	Robbie Walker 3934	Cullman, AL
3.	Scott Sappington 3809	Dallas, GA
4.	Chris Gregory 1707	Resaca, GA
SPORTSMAN
1.	Jim Rogers 4000	Marietta, GA
2.	Warren Oliver 3920	Knoxville, TN
3.	Mike Wingo 3846	Birmingham<,AL
4.	Phil Spelt 3784	Oliver Springs, TN
5.	Richard Witt 3624	Cullman, AL
6.	Jim Slocum 3350	Temple, GA
7.	Mike Robinson 2654	Dalton, GA
NOVICE
1.	Austin Wingo 4000	Birmingham, AL
2.	Bob Wetzel 3834	Temple, GA
3.	Marc Sobolewski 3800.61	Knoxville, TN
4.	Don Eiler 3800.48	Knoxville, TN
5.	Sammy Hamrick 3738	Dalton, GA
6.	Doug Harvel 3714	Forest, MS
7.	Karl Gerth 3603	Oak Ridge, TN
8.	Mike Williams 3578	Alabaster AL
9.	Mike Miller 3419	Knoxville, TN
10.	Danny Dougherty 3394	Powder Springs GA
11.	Gary Lindner 3305	Lenior City, TN
12.	Tracy Dudley 2941	Eva, AL
13.	Tom Stennis 2361 Flew Two Rounds	Starkville, MS
14.	Ralph Andrews 1556 Flew Two Rounds	Cullman, AL

As always, where pictures are present click on the picture for a larger view.

Gary Lindner









Phil Spelt

2nd Bill Johnston Memorial
Prattville, AL Aug. 18 & 19

The "oppressive" heat of this weekend was SECONDARY to the good times, good flying and GREAT fellowship enjoyed by contestants who flew in the LARGEST SPA contest to this point in the 2007 season.

The reason for the success of this tremendous contest had to be the promotion by SPA Chairman of Special Projects, Jamie Strong and his workmates in the Fountain City RC Flyers Club. Many of the participants came as a result of Jamie's demos at neighboring clubs and his personal solicitation. Six flyers entered their first SPA contest ever!

The temperatures were made "bearable" by the presence of electric fans for the judges as well as a number of them under the club covered area. Ice water and Gatorade was always available. This was one contest that all hoped for abundant winds to blow, some did, very lightly and mostly from the South.

Highlights include HOMEMADE ice cream provided early arrivals on Friday evening, there were plenty of them. Mrs. Matt Hampton provided samples of the "dips" she and Matt sell commercially. A "gift-pack" of the dips was donated and won by Mrs. Rebekah Walker. EVERY contestant was provided a "sticker" of the CALVIN SPA cartoon (see photo) and a presentation of each was made all 29 flyers. Following showers a crowd of 40 convened at the FANTAIL, a seafood buffett and fellowship on Saturday evening.

Due to the heat and the huge number of contestants, officials opted for 3 total rounds on Saturday and two on Sunday. What a genuine JOY to meet and associate with many "newbies" who now have been exposed to SPA contest fellowship. As you ponder the results please note the LONG list of NOVICE flyers. Isn't this a pleasure? Nearly all of them declared "this may be my first, but it definitely won't be my last"!

The last sentence on the 2nd Bill Johnston Memorial contest flyer was "COME OUT AND ENJOY THE FUN !!!!!!!!
We did, it was just that!

spa pio

SENIOR EXPERT
1.	Bruce Underwood 3986	Guntersville, AL
2.	Keith Watson 3790	Marietta, GA
3.	Mickey Walker 3514	Kennesaw, GA
EXPERT
1.	Cass Underwood 4000	Guntersville, AL
2.	Robbie Walker 3548	Cullman, AL
3.	Steve Byrum 3452	Cullman, AL
4.	Randy Roberts 3388	Cullman, AL
5.	Scott Sappington 3209	Dallas, GA
SPORTSMAN
1.	Chris Gregory 4000	Resaca, GA
2.	Jim Rogers 3886	Marietta, GA
3.	Phil Spelt 3458	Oliver Springs, TN
4.	Jim Slocum 3455	Temple, GA
5.	Chris Tomberlin 3355	Prattville, AL
NOVICE
1.	Kurtis Waites 3874	Montgomery, AL
2.	Karl Gerth 3866	Oak Ridge, TN
3.	Bob Wetzel 3800	Temple, GA
4.	Steve Veramini 3773	Greensboro, SC
5.	Don Eiler 3765	Knoxville, TN
6.	Doug Whitaker 3747	Morristown, TN
7.	Corey Tanner 3724	Prattville, AL
8.	Don Wade 3708	Helena, AL
9.	Mike Williams 3652	Alabaster, AL
10.	Doug Harvel 3636	Forest, MS
11.	Dan Dougherty 3569	Powder Springs, GA
12.	Matt Hampton 3437	Marietta, GA
13.	Dave Phillips 3253	Birmingham, AL
14.	Gary Lindner 3174	Lenior City, TN
15.	Tom Stennis 2994	Starkville, MS
16.	Mike Miller 2821	Knoxville, TN

As always, where pictures are present click on the picture for a larger view.

Bruce Underwood







Gary Lindner













Doug Harvel




Mike Miller

Andersonville Georgia July 28 & 29

1st HODGES HOBBIES SPA CHAMPIONSHIPS

You ever have a "dream" about the flying sights in Paradise? Chances are they are identical to Hodges' Hobbies site in Andersonville, GA.

On Friday afternoon upon arrival, Dan Dougherty was just outside the auto door and was the first to remark to the PIO....."isn't this what you envision Heaven looking like"? From the opening remarks by CD Scott Sappington, the prayer by Chris Gregory....there was that feeling of "togetherness". Laughing about the heat of "Dawg Days" which is what one expects in the SW part of Georgia and the sharing of the OFF and SKINTASTIC and other repellents for containing the hungry gnats. Gregory remembered in his remarks to the "CHIEF" our dear friends Dennis Hunt and Joe Holton recuperating from illness and asked for consolation to the family of our departed comrade, Jim Ivey.

Scott Sappington dived into his "chores" as CD of his initial event and was assisted by a "team" of experienced personnel.....take a gander at the photos to see Steve and Scott relieved of their scorekeeping chores by Jeannell Gregory, Rebekah Walker and others. Rebekah celebrated birthday number 77 this week-end, sharing her cake with all on the scene, hustling to each flight line to "run" scores and then check for accuracy when Jeannell keyed them in. What teamwork! Retired Georgia Coach Vince Dooley would love to see this kind of team play.

Here's what Duane Wilson posted on the SPA website the day after: (Cut & Pasted)

We held our own version of the "gnats" out at Hodges, but that's why bug spray was invented. Other than that, for those who weren't there, you missed a "modeler's dream"---an air-conditioned hobby shop totally dedicated to R/C within feet of the runway--models hanging from the ceiling to drool over--and "indoor plumbing". Steve Vergamini, Cass and I even took advantage of a garage on site-with electric power so models could be left assembled while they charged overnight--no models in the motel room!! Is that luxury or what??

Electrical outlets were even available outdoors so some of the canopies had electric fans!! We sure could get used to the facilities and amenities out there. For example the condition of the runway is rivaled only by Triple Tree, the Joe Nall site, (I love grass---it's softer and has some "give ' to it), and the A/C etc is easy to get used to TOO EASY too much of this would spoil us, and that wouldn't be good--we need to take this kind of luxury in small doses for our own good.

Part of what makes and keeps SPA so interesting is that new venues are mixed in with the familiar established sites, and each contest has it's own flavor. This meet was no exception--there was no PA system, (so we'd yell messages down the flight line; sometimes it worked, and sometimes the flight order or judges would be readjusted if people were "indisposed' at the time they are supposed to fly---remember there was a hobby shop on site).

There was no pilots meeting Sunday morning, (a first for me). Engines started up at 9AM after a groundswell of impatient pilots,
(led by Bruce), started yelling "let's get going..."; everybody "assumed their positions", and we were "off like dirty shirts" as my dad used to say. To me, it is interesting to experience the different contests--- you're never quite sure what to expect. When Scott was asked about Saturday night dinner he said "what dinner" ---so that too was different. Scott did a great job with minimal help--several people, (as Bruce mentioned), pitched in to pick up score sheets, post scores, and as in Asheville two weeks earlier, Jamie did a great job of coordinating judging,
(Asheville was good experience for him). In the end, as always, everything came together, and everybody had a great time.

At Friday practice, a "gremlin" caused Randy Roberts' radio to give up and he lost his lovely CURARE. Fellow clubmember Steve Byrum loaned Randy his airplane and Roberts' showed his appreciation by scoring higher than Byrum. (Some Buddy, huh Steve?)

Scott used "above bare expenses" to purchase a $100.00 gift certificate from Hodges and a new OS 91 4S engine and at the awards a drawing was held to determine the winners from just the
21 pilots who paid entry and participated. Lucky Jim Slocum won the $100.00 Gift Certificate and Les Smith the OS engine. Proud for you guys and congratulations.

Contestants and spectators alike just regretted the ending of this week-end for it was such a grand "get-together". I visited with many of the spectators, one from out of the US who learned of SPA via the stories in Model Aviation.

Scott & Crew, we're going to remember this week-end a long time just because of the GRAND facilities and that traditional SPA Contest fellowship. Many Thanks.

SPA - PIO

Senior Expert
1.	Bruce Underwood 4000	Guntersville AL
2.	Mickey Walker 3668	Kennesaw, GA
3.	Keith Watson 3617	Marietta, GA
Expert
1.	Cass Underwood 4000	Guntersville, AL
2.	Jamie Strong 3944	Prattville, AL
3.	Randy Roberts 3853	Cullman AL
4.	Scott Sappington 3671	Dallas, GA
5.	Robbie Walker 3581	Cullman, AL
6.	Steve Byrum 3536	Cullman, AL
Sportsman
1.	Chris Gregory 4000	Resaca, GA
2.	Jim Rogers 3792	Marietta, GA
3	Richard Witt 3775	Cullman, AL
4.	Jim Slocum 3530	Temple, GA
Novice
1.	Mike Robinson 4000	Dalton, GA
2.	Rich Ernst 3849	Brooksville, FL
3.	Duane Wilson 3840	Asheville, NC
4.	Matt Hampton 3679	Marietta, GA
5.	Steve Vergamini 3676	Greensboro, NC
6.	Bob Wetzel 3622	Temple, GA
7.	Les Smith 3462	Corinth, MS
8.	Dan Dougherty 3457	Powder Springs, GA

As always, where pictures are present click on the picture for a larger view.

Mike Robinson








Bruce Underwood

Asheville North Carolina
July 14-15 2007

LAND OF THE SKY.........A TREAT FOR THE EYE !! The CHIEF has made a lot of wonderful geography in this good ole USA but some of his most beautiful works has to be......the Asheville, NC area. Nestled in and near the Great Smoky mountains, the area is a masterpiece and the scene from the flying field...... centerfold.

The SPA Fun and Fellowship you read about in the July edition of Model Aviation by Duane was evidenced totally this weekend of July 14 & 15, 2007. With assistance from the loyal and hard-working ABA (Asheville-Buncombe Aeromodelers) and SPA Boardmembers and members this weekend was a treasure.

The tradition of “help your’ buddy” from SPA pilots couldn’t have been more evident than for SPA President and contest veteran, Bruce Underwood who through force-of-habit fueled up on Saturday morning for Round No. 1.......but fueled up another airplane for Duane and, recalling fueling up an airplane, proceeded to attempt a take-off with his TIGERTAIL with the engine running only on the residue left in the tank from Thursday practice....the engine quit just as it lifted off. A quick eyeing revealed a leaky-looking pump slug seal, that was the initial diagnosis of the problem. Jerry Black loaned his nice Dirty-Birdy for that round which was “zeroed” but what a thrill flying lacks’ DB. Still assuming the original problem, Ed Hartley loaned his Daddy-Rabbit back up after programming his neat radio to operate on Underwoods’ Mode II. Hartley was in the process of “pulling” his engine to place in Underwood’s airplane when the “fogeyish” error was discovered while attempting to de-fuel. NOTHING to de-fuel! Underwood spent most of the next couple of hours ending over for a SKITB from all he encountered. But, this is the kind of camaraderie amongst SPA modelers and friends. It was the late Alabama Coach Bear Bryant who used to say, “ be kind to your opponents, for “what goes around comes around”! It does and will.

In one of the photos Dan Dougherty is shown presenting Mrs. Penny Wilson a dozen red roses. Here’s why. Friday afternoon Ed Hartley volunteered to fly his camera-equipped electric airplane over the area where Duane’s King Altair is supposedly lodged in a tree or somewhere. He took Duane WAY down below the mountaintop runway and they stayed and stayed and stayed shooting pics of the area.....all the while Duane was to have been home helping Penny prepare for the Friday night feast at the Wilson home. Needless to say, when he arrived much later than planned and Penny had done the prep for the feast, alone, he was given a thorough “wife-scold”. Someone in the party suggested he get her a dozen roses to “make amends”. He was so busy he overlooked this task, so “along came Dougherty”.....and thought to run by the florist department of the variety store and make the purchase and subsequently, the presentation. I was there to catch it on camera. Penny gushingly blushed a bit and in thanking Dan said “Dan is the Prince, Duane, the Smuck” What a gesture. Dandy Dan did it. Whatta guy.

Will and Debbie Hicks of Will’s Hobby & CB Shop did Yeoman’s duty as announcer computer scorer and Jacks and Jills of all trades and masters of them. Will has a huge trailer of contest supplies pictured in the photo section. His website is: http://www.willshobbies.com and toll-free number 800-313-TECH (8324).

Saturday night at "Dinner at DJ's" the highlight of the evening was the introduction of so many lovely ladies (wives of SPA Pilots), what gratification, this support from "better-halves", this was their night. Attendees shared some stories of the "funniest" incidents down thru the years at contest participation. These sorts of things are always better the humpteenth time around and embellished greatly.

Prior to the awards came the raffle....here are the lucky winners. The SPEKTRUM radio was won by Doug Wheeler, the King Altair kit donated by Jeff Petroski of Home & Hobby goes to Jerry Lyn Robinson (Mrs. Mike), the electric battery packs to Bruce Underwood and Dave Bowman.

Two new members joined SPA this weekend, welcome to William G. (BILL) Dodge of Oak Ridge, TN and Brian Stevens of Concord, NC. There were loads of spectators visiting, viewing, shooting pictures, asking questions and indicating a desire to join our association. Most a result of Duane's story in Model Aviation.

Look what Jamie Strong (who served as Chief Judge) posted on the Discussion List:

What Duane may have lacked in contest skills, was certainly made up for with hospitality. He and Penny knocked themselves out again. Its hard to imagine all the prep work and extra $'s it takes to put one of these things on, especially the Friday stuff that someone comes out of pocket that doesn't come out of contest funds.. Thanks' for the great time and you'll be a Pro in no time.

ABA, Will, Duane and others, thanks for that North Carolina hospitality. GREAT JOB.

We genuinely appreciate the "great times" !! spa pio

Senior Expert

Bruce Underwood 4000

Guntersville AL

Ed Hartley 3932

Knoxville TN

Dave Burton2552

Bolivia NC

Expert

Jerry Black 3967

Jonesboro TN

Jamie Strong 3953

Prattville AL (Since Jerry couldn't come back on Sunday, Jamie decided not to fly without him being there. A very NICE gesture! You can tell by the scores Jamie would have one if he just took off and landed)

Sportsman

Chris Gregory 3964

Resaca GA

William Kite 3861

Kingsport TN

Brian Stevens 3757

Concord NC

Philip Spelt 3750

Oliver Springs TN

Jim Rogers 3730

Marietta GA

Bill Dodge 3498

Knoxville TN

Novice

Mike Robinson 4000

Dalton GA

Don Eiler 3855

Knoxville Tn

Karl Gerth 3796

Oak Ridge TN

Vic Koinig 3735

Johnson City TN

Mike Miller 3567

Knoxville TN

Duane Wilson 3561

Asheville NC

Bill Starnes 3383

Kingsport TN

Carter Pounders 3368

Asheville NC

Dan Dougherty 3297

Powder Springs GA

Were Pictures are present, Click for a larger view. Back Button To Return Bruce Underwood







Debbie Hicks
Gary Lindner



Francis Rogers
Mike Miller









Mike Robinson

Gadsden Alabama!
June 24, 2007

Heat and warm weather is expected with it officially Summertime. It was evident here....but in NO way did it prevent 22 wonderful SPA RC Pilots from a traditional week-end of precision aerobatic flying, fun and fellowship.

Gadsden was a SPECIAL occasion, when at the conclusion of Round 3 on Saturday afternoon, all pilots and their families, helpers and Gadsden RC Flyers and numerous spectators gathered in front of the clubhouse at Kidd Field to honor Mr. Dennis Hunt of Oak Ridge, TN who flew and participated in the contest on his 80th Birthday. What a pleasure to participate in this event, especially with the health problems Dennis has endured. Heart surgery and stomach removal in just the past few weeks. He is a SPECIAL individual! (I hear the chorus of "AMENS" from the membership reading this right this instant). Hunt was so humble when we in unison sung "Happy Birthday" and he responded with tears of joy and remarked "these people, right here, are the finest people I have ever known". Dennis had expressed a desire to "be flying SPA competition on his 80th birthday.....that desire became REAL in Gadsden on June 23, 2007. What a boon this fellow has been to SPA since its' inception. Doesn't it make you swell up with pride when you exclaim to someone, "I am in SPA and so is Mr. Dennis Hunt". This "party" was indeed the highlight of the week-end and Dennis responded like he always does, by sharing............he sliced the cake and had all that wanted sample it on the spot.

Jack Stephens, Richard Brooks, Fred Steward, the lovely ladies and other gents of the Gadsden RC Flyers tended all host chores nicely. Steve Byrum CD, did his terrific job of keeping things rolling. He programmed the flight order, appointed judges, input scores, judged some himself, erected and took down judges tents. How could we exist without him? Kudos again, Steve. 22 pilots contested with 6 full rounds, 4 on Saturday and two on Sunday with awards and dismissal by 1PM CDT. Very orderly.

There were a couple of problems with runways overshot, engines quitting, stabs cracking due to G forces, etc. but nothing really critical. Man, what competition with two classes coming down to the very last round to determine a winner. Sportsman and Expert winners were decided by Round 6. Now, this kind of competition is exciting.

The Gadsden Times daily newspaper ran a terrific story in its' Thursday or Friday edition detailing the contest and as a result there must have been in excess of 200 spectators who attended just to view the flying on Saturday. Loads of questions regarding SPA airplanes, the organization, etc. were answered by any and all members to the guests. A reporter did a feature story on Saturday with some very nice pictures in the big Sunday morning edition. The Friday edition contained an excellent story captioned GADSDEN RC FLYERS HOST CHAMPIONSHIP FOR OLDER MODEL PLANES, Mr. Richard Brooks was pictured in a close up with one of his models and a nice shot of the field and clubhouse. The text of the article was "super". Sunday's edition carried a nice story titled MODEL ENTHUSIASTS ENJOY CLASSICS COMPETITION. The reporter interviewed a number of pilots on the scene including one with Michael Stern from London, England, Grandson of Mr. Dennis Hunt who attended to support his Grandfather in the event. This story contained a huge photo of Jim Slocum flying and John Baxter calling for him. Another of Curtis Comer carrying a Tiger Tail to the runway for a flight on Saturday. Perhaps some of the computer "gurus" can figure a way of "scanning" these stories and pictures for sharing on the website in the near future. I have both editions hoping to submit to AMA for inclusion with our SIG designation in 2008 as AMA loves publicity such as this for RC Model Aviation.

Loads of fun came prior to the awards with the drawing for the raffle prizes. Mrs. Bob Wetzel was kind enough to draw each winning ticket, unable to view the box but reaching for its' contents from beneath it. (Steve held it over her head).

Gosh, what a short week-end....time zips when you're having fun and Gadsden RC FLYERS, this was a "dandy". President Jack Stephens told your President and PIO, "we hope to be on your list of contest sites in 2008".

Those of you reading this and missed the event......Mr. Stephens said he belongs to the SPA Discussion List and wants you all to know how we appreciate your attendance and he keeps up with the pilots of our group that are ailing...."you are in our prayers" he concluded.

It was a thrill to have Mr. & Mrs. Don Kidd, for whom the Gadsden field is named (they owned the site for 33 years before selling a year or so ago) visiting and reliving "old times" with us there.

Thanks GRCF................we genuinely appreciate the "great times" !!

spa pio

Bruce,

Just want to thank you and your group of SPA Flyers for making things happen at Gadsden. It was certainly good to see you flying at Kidd Field again. Seemed like old times. I can see where the SPA Flyers are a good group to be around. We certainly appreciate their generosity.

Our club got three prospects for new members and hopefully one or two of them will join the club.

Our efforts and the SPA members helped our club "kitty" by $740.00, which is not bad. We just want you to know that we appreciate all of you.

Thanks,
Richard Brooks

The following is included thanks to Mr. Ron Reaves Executive Editor of the Gadsden Times.
Click Here for the Gadsden times web site.
This is a PDF of the article published by the Gadsden Times on June 25, 2007.
Our thanks for their coverage and kind permission to use this PDF.
CLICK HERE

Senior Expert

Bruce Underwood 4000

Guntersville AL

Ed Hartley 3829

Knoxville TN

Mickey Walker 3336

Kennesaw, GA

Dennis Hunt 3179

Oak Ridge TN

Expert

Jerry Black 4000

Jonesboro TN

Cass Underwood 3963

Guntersville AL

Jamie Strong 3636

Prattville AL

Scott Sappington 3198

Dallas GA

Sportsman

Chris Gregory 3989

Resaca GA

Jim Rogers 3934

Marietta, GA

John Baxter 3575

Dallas Ga

BoB Bixby 3360

Acworth GA

Jim Slocum 3193

Temple GA

Philip Spelt 2942

Oliver Springs TN

Novice

Mike Robinson 3987

Dalton GA

Karl Gerth 3861

Oak Ridge TN

Don Eiler 3766

Marietta GA

Matt Hampton 3650

Ashville NC

Dave Johnson 3513

Soddy Daisy TN

Bob Wetsel 3382

Temple GA

Curtis Comer 3254

Huntsville AL

Danny Dougherty

Powder Springs GA

Were Pictures are present, Click for a larger view. Back Button To Return Bruce Underwood Pictures


		Jamie Strong Third Place Had to leave Saturday

Photograph By Roy Thompson

HOTLANTA "HOOT"

Sun. June 10, 2007......Hotlanta's SPA contest this weekend was, as implied by the Caption, a HOOT!

Sometimes you wonder...."how can this PCMA club have as good a contest as they have had in the past?" In keeping with the PCMA tradition....this years' was really good. CD John Baxter and staff left nothing undone to entertain and delight the 25 pilots, families and friends.

Several models collided with "terra-firma"....however none the result of "mid-airs". One, a tree grabbed, another actually broke an elevator pushrod in flight, a couple overshooting the landing area and one was just unknown, Jerry Blacks' DB (Dirty Birdy no. one)...just dived on its' own to the earth. All for the most part, had "back-ups" or you know the spirit of SPA flyers, had the use of a Buddies' bird. You can't beat the "helpfulness" of SPA pilots, confirmed by Rich Ernst of Florida before the gathering at the awards ceremony.

Baxter announced flying to begin at a specified time each morning...and it DID....an airplane was in the air at THAT announced time....four rounds in a good deal of wind on Saturday and two on Sunday with winds diminished.

The luckiest guy at the shindig found out his good fortune Saturday night at the banquet at EL NOPAL, when Mr. Jim Slocum won the new SPEKTRUM radio at the raffle drawing. Shortly after the raffle came the drawing from only the pre-registers for the deluxe Dremel accessory set.....guess who? Jim Slocum again! Wow, what good fortune. We were all proud for Jim and congratulated him on the winnings. Jerry Black of Johnson City, TN won a 20.00 certificate for servo leads donated by Scott Anderson. Joe Holton won the PCMA shirt and caps went to Matt Hampton, Mike Robinson and Scott Sappington.

Can't wait to see the photos and share the memories. EVERY attendee expressed "love and affection" for two of our regulars who have health setbacks, Messrs Dennis Hunt and Jim Ivey. You guys have more friends on the circuit than you realize and everyone of us are pulling for you, sending Prayers and WELL wishes.

The PIO shot a picture (hope it turns out well) of flyer Darren Lanning of Dalton, GA who entered his first contest ever. Look for it soon.

PCMA, thanks for a tremendous contest.....like the comedian Cable Guy would say, "yore job was to git-er-dun" and ya'll did just that.....in fine style.

Ed Hartley

Senior Expert

Bruce Underwood 4000

Guntersville AL

Ed Hartley 3855

Knoxville TN

Marty Barry 3664

Hiawassee GA

Keith Watson 3423

Marietta GA

Mickey Walker 3340

Kennesaw, GA

Expert

Cass Underwood 4000

Guntersville AL

Jamie Strong 3951

Prattville AL

Jerry Black 3860

Johnson City TN

Scott Sappington 3367

Dallas GA

Sportsman

Chris Gregory 4000

Resaca GA

Joe Holton 3922

Acworth GA

John Baxter 3835

Dallas GA

Philip Spelt 3640

Oliver Springs TN

Jim Slocum 3648

Temple GA

Barry Roper 3177

Smyrna Ga

Scott Anderson 1961

Knoxville Tn

Novice

Mike Robinson 3997

Dalton GA

Chris Gregory 4000

Resaca GA

Mike Robinson 3864

Dalton GA

Steve Vergamini 3674

Greensboro NC

Bob Wetzel 3565

Temple GA

Dan Daougherety 3466

Powder Springs GA

Darren Lanning 3435

Dalton GA

Matt Hampton 3411

Marc Sobolenski 207

Knoxville TN

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SERMA - SUPER !
May 20, 2007
Guntersville, AL.

What a SUPER weekend it has been for SPA pilots who "burned-holes-in-the-sky" over SERMA here. All of the 27 flyers and friends and family now know and understand the true story behind the name SERMA (Suckegg Road Model Airfield) for it was delivered as a sort of history lesson....just prior to the Pledge of Allegiance , Invocation and the singing of our National Anthem by Lee Ann Rimes. This was "pre-lim" to the Pilots briefing Saturday morning.

Some pilots arrived on Thursday, most all on Friday where some 35 folks consumed the better part of 4 tasty smoked Boston Butts with all the trimmings provided by Bill Collins, Sr. and Bill Jr. of Collins' Auto Parts. RV's, Tents and other camping-like vehicles lined the allocated region from about mid-day Friday till conclusion.

Saturday morning, the winds of Friday diminished to a steady 5 to 10 from the North and right down the runway, described by many as "just the right speed". We never failed to thank the Chief for the good shower on Wednesday and the comfy low humidity throughout the entire weekend. As advertised, flying started promptly at 9:30 AM and 4 rounds pushed a 6 PM departure for the Outlaw Steakhouse and a Saturday night banquet, fellowship and a good program. 42 attended the Saturday night gathering which saw special awards to locals Bob Wilkes and Wendell Cornelius for their excellent preparation of the field. Steve Vergamini of Greensboro, NC received a special award for "furtherest travel". A special upright desk stand of walnut and GOLD, with a genuine Scribes' pen was given CD Steve Byrum for his tireless duties performed. A beautiful evening indeed.

Sunday, as advertised, flying started promptly at 9:30 AM. two terrific rounds with conclusion about 1:15 PM with a combo "judged and announced" performance by Mr. Ed Hartley for the spectators and family friends.

Hosts Cass Underwood and Bill Collins presented 27 plaques.....YES, every pilot received a permanent memento for his constant reminder of the fun and fellowship at the 1st SERMA SPA Invitational. (ALL RC flyers were invited). A pewter replica of a Bar-B-Q cooker went to Bill Collins for his excellent food preparation.

Webmaster Ed will have results within 24 to 48 hours, but the word of the weekend is "THANKFULNESS"....from the SERMA group of 5 + Steve to the participants which numbered the identical number at the "best attended contest of the 2006 season".

2007's contest season is "off and running" now with one of the finest contests I have ever had the honor of co-CDing. Not one, no not one single negative was voiced, what a delightful way to kick-off a contest season. Cass U., the Host and initiator of the event, shared the gratuities as he presented the trophies and MC'd the concluding session.

Have a safe journey home attendees, eager to see you all in HOTLANTA in 3 weeks.

(Remember that DR beauty in the last newsletter owned by Mr. John Baxter.......??) It was chosen "most beautiful bird" by pilots at SERMA and earned John an award that hopefully he will bring to display for those of you who may not have gotten to see it when we gather at PCMA.

Gratefully,
Bruce Underwood
spa pio

Webmaster Note:
Those present at the contest know this story. I arrived within one mile of SERMA and my transmission quit shifting and went into what Chrysler calls "Limp Mode". At this moment in time my first thought was A. I would miss the contest and B. should I stay till Monday and see if I could get this thing fixed at a dealership knowing full well they wouldn't work on it Saturday! I then made the decision I would get Triple A to haul it the first 100 miles, (free with my subscription), and try and make a reasonable deal with the wrecker folks to haul it the next Hundred miles home.

This happened around two-thirty Guntersville time. I "limped" to the SERMA field. Bill Collins Sr. immediately sent me to his shop for my first meeting with Bill Junior!! You can imagine on Friday with a vehicle I can't drive home what my mental state was! Bill Junior first sent me to a mechanic friend a couple of blocks away to read the engine code. (No Charge by this friend)! Once we knew it was the solenoid pack on the transmission, Bill Junior looked it up under "NAPA" and found the only one shown was in Cincinnati. Needless to say, it wouldn't be here on Saturday! Next he found one in Albertville, got me a great price, loaned me his mama's car and sent me after it. When I returned to "NAPA" one of Bill's friends who only works on transmissions was in the Napa Auto Parts shop taking the defective one off. He promptly put the new one on! Bill let us use his shop, stayed after closing hours and made sure I was all ok before he went home!

I cannot tell you what a blessing to have friends like the Collins family. I am forever grateful, especially to Bill Junior!

By the way I enjoyed one of best SPA contest ever!, which I could have easily missed!

Ed Hartley

Senior Expert

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Knoxville TN

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