APRIL 2007 CPA Newsletter



NEXT MEETING

Our next meeting will be held Sunday April 15th on the terrace of Corona Aero Partners at 5PM. NOTE This is a change of the usual time. The meeting has been moved to the third Sunday because the normal day falls on Easter Sunday and while we would like to celebrate the rebirth of the CPA we also feel that this is a family day so the meeting has been move to allow more family participation. The same philosophy will be used for the May meeting which falls on Mothers day so the May meeting will also be moved to the third Sunday.

Be sure to bring a dish to share, a happy face and a desire to explore aviation. Our program will be a special video from the Bob Hoover collection on flight safety and collision avoidance. We will also discuss the importance of the information presented in the video.

The open house to show Classical Aircraft has a new twist, so be sure to read further in this newsletter. Plan on showing your aircraft.

LAST MEETING

President Paul was unable to be present for the opening ceremonies of the monthly meeting but our Vice President filled the role admirably until Paul was able to join us. Attendance was in the mid twenties and those that were there not only enjoyed a good program, the second half of Runway 16 the Van Nuys Airport story but also enjoyed great food and a great aviator atmosphere while eating. The Terrace is an excellent place to watch what is going on at the airport and as the days get longer there are more and more pilots flying in the late afternoon.

Jim Nunally reported a low turnout for the monthly morning display hoped for an improved turn out in April.

Officers for the year were elected and will officially take over at the April meeting. Our officers normally serve until July but the process was accelerated this year for a number of reasons. The Presidents column contains the new information.

A report on the Airefaire was given. Sponsorship is going well and it appears we will be able to have a free show this year.

It was agreed to enter the City of Corona’s fourth of July parade. Paul Bricker will be the parade coordinator.


FROM THE PREZ

By Paul Bricker

This is my last “From the Prez” for the CPA. First, I would like to thank the members who agreed to serve as the officers for the following year. Jim Nunally was elected as my successor as President, and his wife Margaret agreed to continue as Secretary. Dorothe Balija is continuing as Vice President, and Dennis Voll is our new Treasurer. I’d also like to thank the members for their support. The underlying objective is the long-term vitality of AJO.

During the process several people approached me to say they would like to serve, but didn’t know what they could do, or whether they had the time that would be needed. If this is you then rest assured that you can do something that is needed, and we can tailor the time commitment to what you feel you can offer.  All of the officers will be happy for your help. As an example, we have membership bills to be sent out soon. Taking the data from the roster, addressing and stamping envelops, etc. is not hard, but it does take time. Dorothe has requested anyone who would like to help to show up early for the meeting in April to help. We’ll just gather around a table and get it done, while I’m sure, sharing stories, most of which shouldn’t be published. Come join the fun and help your association.

We will once again participate in the Corona 4th of July parade.  With the retirement of last years “parade boss” I’m tracking down the city contact for 2007. The Kitfox and the 99’s walking airplanes were a hit last year, but I’d like us to add something new this year. If you have any ideas for additional floats, marching (walking!) groups or displays grab me at a meeting or my hanger (1947 #17) or send an email ( pbricker@earthlink.net ).

While we had good weather for the Open House the turnout was less than hoped, somewhat due to people not being sure what to do., there were some people waiting to see other planes before they brought theirs out. A crowd can’t form until the first person is there, so just go ahead and bring your plane to the area. Others are probably just waiting to for you!

The April meeting has been postponed to 4/15, due to the conflict with Easter on 4/8. The meeting will be at the usual time (5 pm). We will install the new officers at the meeting.

Once again, thank you and I’ll see you at the April meeting.


CORONA MUNICIPAL AIRPORT

By Rich Brodeur, Airport Manager

Now is your chance to get rid of those unwanted metal and wire items; a Metal & Wire Only Container… is located at the east end of the airport.  Please do not throw trash in this container.

Safety: Christopher Davis the Airfield Operations Manager for the Riverside Airshow has the following concerns for this upcoming event: 1st aircraft flying up and down the interstate 91 or in close proximity to Riverside Airport should exercise extreme caution in this area due to 2 para-drops and 2nd the number of fast moving jets producing severe wake turbulence.  It is highly recommended that pilots remain clear of this area and if they must travel near this airspace; they should contact the Riverside tower for advisories.

Aircraft complaints:  None this month; Thanks!

Hazardous Materials:  The rainy season is upon us… it is very important that everyone does their part, to minimize the potential for hazardous material spills and contamination.

Please dispose of all materials properly.  You can take your oil to the east end for $1.00 per gallon or in most cases you can take it to your nearest automotive center for disposal for free.  Please do not leave any oils or gasoline in open containers in your hangars.  If I am not available; please do not leave oil on the ground next to the oil reclamation area, at the east end of the airport. My office phone numbers is (951) 736-2289… call and arrange a time to drop off your oil. By the way, this area is under constant camera surveillance and anyone who does leave hazardous materials on the ground is subjecting themselves to severe fines.  Smile you're on camera!

Insurance:  Please make sure your insurance is current and up to date and indicates The City of Corona and the Army Corps of Engineers as additionally insured.   The Master Lease Holders have been issued a copy of all non-insured aircraft and will be taking corrective action to ensure 100% compliance to this ongoing process.  If your aircraft is not operational and does not have insurance, you must submit a Declaration of Non-Operation Status form.  Please contact your Master Lease Holder or the Airport Manager for this form.

Gate Card Renewals:  March 31, 2007 is the deadline for Gate Card Renewals.  This means  that your gate card will not work after this date!  Anyone in need of this service may forward the$10.00 renewal fee to the attention of the Airport Manager along with your proof of insurance, a copy of your Driver’s License, current phone number, and the hangar or space number where your aircraft is located.  Make your check out to the City of Corona or stop by the Airport Manager’s office Tuesday through Saturday 7 am - 4 pm.  If this is not possible; please deposit your payment along with the above required information through the mail slot.  New Gate Cards cost $15.00 and must be picked-up in person after the above deadline.

Please help me keep our Airport Safe and Neighborly!  Thanks!!!!


PILOT PROFILE

By Margaret Nunally

Pilot Profile of Mark Beattie (in his own words).

Started flying in high school. My parents were supportive of my interest in airplanes giving me my 1st small plane ride as a birthday present at age 12. Dad rewarded good grades with hours toward flying lessons. Using those hours I earned my glider rating at age 15 and then later with money from an after school job earned my single engine rating at age 17 from G&H Aircraft at the El Monte airport. During that time I was a Civil Air Patrol Cadet in Squadron 21 based at El Monte. Wanting a career in aviation, I struggled with choosing between being a professional pilot, A&P, or air traffic controller.

I ended up going into ATC after getting an AS degree in Air Traffic Management from Mt SAC. Most of my ATC career was spent at Hawthorne and Orange County towers with a short stint at Ontario TRACON before being “relieved” of duties in ’81 for participating in the PATCO ATC strike. A couple years later I was hired as a satellite test engineer with Rockwell in Seal Beach (later bought by Boeing) and have been with them ever since. I’m proud to say I’ve tested and touched every GPS block II satellite built by Rockwell flying today, that’s about 28 of them.

All of my flying has been for recreational purposes; I usually rented Cessnas and Cherokees. Along the way I’ve owned a Schweizer 1-26 sailplane and a ’74 Bellanca Champ 7ACA. The 7ACA flew behind a 60hp, 2 cyl, Franklin engine and was advertised new for 4995.00 without an electrical system. We kept it tied down here at Corona in the early 80’s and that’s when I really learned to like this airport. Here was a grass roots kind of place that you could come to and just hang out, wander the line, and watch planes fly. Not to mention one of the best airport restaurants around, Bob's Chili Chow Hall.

I used to believe there was no way I would ever fly in something I built in my garage. However as time went on it seemed the homebuilt airplane industry started to produce quality kits that required less fabrication and were more like big models that you put together. After looking at some ultralight types my wife, Liz, suggested I get something that would be good for cross country flying and provide protection from the elements, especially if I wanted her to fly with me. So I can officially "blame" her for having decided to build a Vans Aircraft, RV-6.I’ve been working on it steadily with an emphasis on slowly since Nov ’99. The stabilizers, control surfaces, and wings are complete. Work is now progressing on the fuselage which is about 75% skinned. I have a 160hp O-320 ready to install and plan on a VFR panel with a mix of digital and steam gauges. All construction is taking place at home in Anaheim Hills, it's so convenient to be able to just go into the garage to work on it. I’m hoping though that within a year I’ll be forced to move it to the hangar and attach the wings. Presently I rent a Cessna from Fly Corona to stay current.

Just before starting on the RV, I visited the Corona EAA Chapter. Yes, Corona has an EAA Chapter right on the airport, Ch 494. Although they are concentrating on building a Pietenpol which is made of sticks and twigs, the core membership has experience in everything from wood and fabric, to composites and metal. For the ultralight and light sport aircraft crowd we have some experience there, too. I joined the group, became the Newsletter Editor and then a couple of years ago I was elected President. We’ve recently had to consolidate space but we continue to meet the 1st and 3rd Saturdays to work on the Piet, with the general meeting on the 3rd Saturday at 2:00 pm. We have displayed it at the Pietenpol fly-in and the Air Faire and have also put it on display at Flabob, most recently with wings attached it looks like an airplane, almost ready to cover. We welcome all CPA members to stop by, take a look, and of course, offer an opinion or two.

I have been a card carrying member of the CPA for a couple years now. I believe groups such as this and EAA Chapters are important in promoting and protecting general aviation airports like Corona from closure and unnecessary restrictions. Our CPA is a vital voice here and is to be commended for its efforts towards promoting, protecting, and maintaining this local resource. What I like about Corona today, in spite of the changes that have occurred since 9/11, is it still has that friendly, grass roots feeling about it. Oh yea...and Bob's Chili Chow Hall.

NEWS YOU REALLY NEED


CHARITY, SIGHTSEEING RULE TAKES EFFECT

The National Air Tour Safety Standards Final Rule  went into effect Thursday, March 15. With that comes an increase in the minimum number of hours required for private pilots to conduct charity fundraising flights-from 200 to 500 hours. "AOPA had aggressively opposed this because it limits the number of pilots available to provide charity fundraising flights,"  This information has been lifted from the AOPA magazine which also lists several requirements for this activity. Pilots who want to participate in these events should become familiar with the rules.

The ugly issue of User Fees seems to be back on the table in Washington DC a number of undesirable fees are in FAA proposals including a 50 cent increase in gasoline taxes. Everyone should become familiar with the issue and act accordingly.

MARK YOUR CALENDERS

<http://www.milonic.com/>  On Sunday May 6th our friends from the Ferrari Club will be meeting on the terrace at Corona Aero Partners. In the past we have joined this group for fun and fellowship. We have offered plane displays and plane rides for their members who would like them There will be a luncheon served and CPA is invited to participate. If you furnish a plane and offer rides your luncheon is free. If you just want to see some marvelous cars and share some fellowship then you will be charged the cost of the lunch, this can be a fun day and there are some really nice cars. This will be back in the next newsletter. For info call 951 371 1711

FAREWELL KEITH HOSFIEL

Keith Hosfiel who has been a Corona airport user for a number of years passed away March 13th in Newport Beach. His services were held March 22nd at the Pacific View Mortuary. After the services friends and family gathered at a local Coco’s Restaurant to remember him and to tell flying stories. Keith owned J model Mooney and a 172 he used to commute between SNA and Corona. He recently completed a very nice RV 6 complete with a full panel included a Garmin 430. After the flood Keith bought a hanger at Riverside but he continued to stay in contact with his friends in Corona. Keith will be missed and we offer our condolences to his family.

Heavy Traffic coming soon

There has been a number of inquiries as to the whys and whefores of the double fence coming into the Airport. The fence is the temporary boundary for the new haul road the Corps will use to haul the dyke material from the excavation site. When they are finished the road will remain and there will be an emergency exit for future use in case of flooding.


Guest Column, An On-Scene Report

by 'The Writer'

US Army Corps of Engineers Prado Dam Project
Brief Summary of Public Meeting of March 7, 2007

This meeting was attended by about 40 people, 15 of whom represented Corps of Engineers, County of Orange, and City of Corona, with the remaining 25 or so from the public. The Congressionally approved raising of the dam 28.4 feet is underway.

Construction includes a series of dikes being constructed to increase emergency capacity to accommodate a possible forecast 180 year flood event. The dikes are located between the riverbed, airport, & wildlife area and the industrial buildings and residences. Dikes tops are 564 feet above sea level.

Because the commercial development values in the riverbed downstream from the dam exceed 17 billion dollars, the dam's primary goal is to protect these areas from a catastrophic flood (Ala. New Orleans). Keeping waters in the dam high enough to provide a minimum necessary percolation downstream, while keeping it low enough to provide for maximum containment for possible disastrous level flood protection, is the balance that Orange County and Army Corps Dam Officials stated they intend to pursue. [Writer comment: These property values downstream align the property owners and the airport users on the same side with regard to keeping water levels down when heavy, unpredictable storms approach Southern California.] The only glitch in this plan that came out in the meeting was the fact that a major sewer line exposed in the channel by prior heavy exit flow still limits the amount of dam water that can be let out. Proud of the fact that the dam renovations and channel wall concrete now allows for a 30,000 cu. ft. per sec. flood water evacuation, a few dam representatives were embarrassed that the unrepaired sewer line compromises the dam's capacity for controlled flood water exit to the same old 3,000 to 5,000 cu. ft. per sec. rate that flooded things in the past. This means that not being able to exit catastrophic rain water fast enough from the dam, compromises the capability to protect the airport and the downstream business from the major flood event that the dam improvements were designed to protect. Army Corps and Orange County Representatives stated that they have been aware of this problem since the early 1980s, but have not even now acquired approval and funding to move the sewer line. [Seems to this writer and other simple folks that priorities have been and still are a bit screwed up: having a huge and extremely expensive flood protection dam from which you cannot let out the water fast enough to achieve flood protection goal because you cannot afford a very much lesser correction to a sewer line, makes no sense! To us old-time farm boys it is like building a wonderful big barn to protect the farm animals in the snowy winter, but not being able to afford to put a door in it! It is time for airport people, riverbed property owners, and insurance underwriters to write congressmen and elected officials on this matter]

The meeting began at 7:00 PM with an approximately 30 minute description of the status and immediate future plans for the project. With the exception of a brief acknowledgment of the above mentioned channel problem and water exit limitations, the remaining discussion time through to 9:00 PM was taken with passionate and ongoing complaints of three or four resident couples about: dust, noise, and the transition of a window view from current weeds and dirt to the "negative visuals" of a landscaped berm. [Conspicuous by its absence was any recognition or appreciation of the multi-millions of dollars of flood protection for them for which they did not have to pay directly.]

                                       - The Writer