The start of the 2011 season is quickly approaching. If you are like me, there is a last minute rush to get that winter maintenance done on the plane. I hope that everyone is beginning to get some flying in with nicer weather. I know that I can wait to hit some contests and see everyone again.
What’s NEW!
A great Flying and Judging Seminar was once again held by Bill Lairsey at Ray and Robins Hobby Center in West Falmouth, ME. There were 19 pilots in attendance that had a good time and Ray picked up the tab for lunch! I want to say thank you to Bill Lairsey and to all who attended for your effort to ensure that we have good quality judges on the flight line.
Another great opportunity to attend a Flying and Judging School is coming up on 4/23 to be held at the RCMB field in Parkton, MD. Please come on out and get geared up for the season. It is very important that everyone tries to attend at least one Judging School to ensure that we continue to improve the quality of judging in the region. It has been a long time since we have had a Flying and Judging School in the lower part of the region which should make for some great attendance and really help those in that part of the region.
One of the things that we are going to work on this year is getting contests back on the schedule for next year as soon as possible after that contest for the year (yes – plan for next year – this year). That will give us more time to go after new contests to fill in any gaps we have both time wise and geographically.
Judges Corner
Reminder: New Rule Changes for 2011-2012
Don’t forget the new sound scoring rules that have taken effect as well as several more rule changes. I will get out a quick cheat sheet that CD’s can use for a quick briefing at the pilots meeting to summarize the changes if they would like. Taking 5 minutes at the start of the first couple contests of the year will make sure that everyone is onboard with the changes.
Assistant Regional Directors and Contest Coordinators WANTED!
We are continuously looking for people to step up and help the region in whatever way they can to help us grow. If you are interested in becoming an ARD or CD please let me know even if your area currently has an ARD. It is important to rotate around these volunteer positions to keep someone from having to serve more than there fair share.
Also, we are currently looking for more contests in all areas but especially in the middle to upper parts of our region. If you have an idea of a field and club that may want to host a contest, please bring that up so we can work together to make it happen.
Contest Directors
Please don’t forget, there is a new version of David Smith’s scoring program on the streets. Please get rid of any older versions that you may have to avoid any problems.
Upcoming Events
Lower NE Region Flying and Judging School – April 23rd 2011 in Parkton, MD
Capital IMAC (CAPI XIV) – May 21st 2011 in Bowie, MD
Lums Pond IMAC – June 11th 2011 in Bear, DE
Happy Flying!
Brian Foveaux
NE IMAC Regional Director