Flying Wing Nutz Fun Fly Event: The Flying Wing Nutz, Club 4438, of St. Marys, West Virginia, hosted its annual Fun Fly event on Saturday, September 6, 2025. All area clubs were invited, with a special invitation going to the Civil Air Patrol (CAP) Parkersburg Composite Squadron from Parkersburg, West Virginia. A total of 22 pilots registered, and the club welcomed a new member.
The CAP was well represented, with eight cadets and their squadron leader in attendance. Club members provided the cadets with hands-on flying experience using a buddy-box system. Utilizing the AMA Take off And Grow Grant funds that the Flying Wing Nutz had received, the club purchased a RTF HobbyZone AeroScout airplane and a RealFlight simulator.
At noon, the Wing Nutz club surprised the CAP by presenting them with the complete RTF airplane package. This generous gesture was met with excitement and appreciation from the cadets and their squadron leader.
The Wing Nutz club will continue to work with the CAP to support aeronautical education and collaborate with its cadets on future initiatives.
Harrisburg Area Flying Society’s Community Outreach: On Saturday, October 11, 2025, the Harrisburg Area Flying Society (HAFS) hosted CAP Dauphin County Composite Squadron 306 for a picnic and the opportunity to learn about RC flying. The event drew 12 cadets, along with their families and adult officers, for a total of approximately 42 guests.
The CAP squadron provided a wonderful buffet lunch, while club members organized flight demonstrations and answered questions from attendees. Two trainer airplanes were set up for buddy-box flights, ensuring that every cadet who wished to participate had a chance to fly.
Special thanks go to Ken Howard for coaching and piloting, Dave Manton for lending his transmitter and assisting with testing, Krenzel’s Hobby for donating gift cards, the club members for supporting the event, and to those who maintain Elmerton Field. This event was an excellent example of community outreach and provided a valuable opportunity to connect with individuals who share an interest in aviation, potentially leading to new club memberships in the future.
Thank you to Club Secretary Frank Benson for your comprehensive report.
The Value of CAP Partnerships: Based on these reports, collaborating with the CAP is an outstanding way to share our passion for model aviation and strengthen our clubs.
Please send me information about your club’s activities and I will do my best to include them in the District III monthly column.
Until next month, stay safe and fly safe.