New, in 2013 is the Homebuilt Class, which is drawing a consistent number of entries each month.  I had the pleasure of timing for Rick "Axle" Griess who finished 3rd in the Homebuilt class.  Axle was cranking out some solid rounds until a hard landing disabled his plane.  If he could just learn to ignore the errant advise of his timer, he could be in first place.  Axle, thanks for letting me time for ya.  It made for a very enjoyable day.   On many Fridays, we see a cadre of guys with their homebuilt planes.  I would like invite and encourage those guys to join "Weeds", "Axle", Tom & Ed in our monthly contests.  Check with these guys, they'll tell ya, we have a lot of fun.  Without getting too technical, a Homebuilt plane is basically one that doesn't have molded wings.  The specifics can be found here; http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1731052&page=2 - Dudley

Great day for flying, was nice to see a good turnout and congrats to the top fliers in each class. Lots got their times so this one turned into the landing contest it "threatened" to be all along. Sometimes that 4' wide runway felt reeeeal narrow, eh?  Landing conditions were similar this time to a month ago: the breezes were almost constantly shifting, sometimes you landed in dead air, other times it was either a little downwind or a little headwind. Definitely more challenging.  Many many thanks to all who generously helped including Ron Kucera and his field crew (Sheldon "Dust Devil" Smith, John Strandberg, and ?) for all the dusty mowing and sprinkler work earlier this week, Jim Rolle for early field help, Aric and Kevin our skilled food maestros, Jonathan Heritage for putting in so much time to help set up both winches, Dudley for his tireless scoring spreadsheet work, and, well I'm positive I'm missing many others. And, thank you to Marty who ran the meeting afterwards in a way that gave everyone a fair chance for contributions even though the day was getting late.  Very much appreciated. - Chris B

What a great day! Thermals everywhere; especially in the South East - the traditional "house thermal."  After a long hiatus, I finally had a decent contest. But some of that success goes to Lou Fox who helped me out of a few difficult moments by directing me to lift. My recent practice has helped for sure along with advice from folks like Carl V. and Chris B. Thanks guys.  But my gosh what a lunch! Hamburgers with spicy cheese, big tomato slices, hefty bacon slices, barbecue sauce, really nice lettuce and topped off with grilled onions!  Whoa, That is what really counts!  Thanks to the master chef!  One negative -  despite my applying repellant, I got one no-see-um bite on my ankle.  They are back! Be forewarned - Jonathan Heritage