News, Updates and stories

From President Wayne Mooneyham

Holidays and winter have finally arrived with rain and cool weather clearing the smoke and haze. It has been a long dry summer and fall season and, as last year, a devastating fire season as well.

Today, as I put pen to paper on what is called “Black Friday,” I am reminded that we have an opportunity to be generous and giving in this time of thanksgiving. The bleak outlook for those evacuees who have lost all their possessions, homes, and in some cases, loved ones, in areas both north and south of our community must be overwhelm-ing. Many of our members have provided generous contributions and support to those affected - awesome!

It has been a busy year for our airport with all the activity connect-ed with the flight schools and FBO’s, Highway Patrol and helicopter operations. We now have a new “state of the art” AWOS System, LED runway marker lights and the long-awaited slurry sealing of the ramp area. However, the ramp/taxiways that serve fifty hangars on the west end - an area that is sorely in need of resurfacing, somehow got missed. That said…our airport community continues to thrive and our association is a key element in many of the activities.

As your outgoing President (three different terms) I would like to take this time to thank my fellow officers and directors for all of their encouragement and support that has made our organization run so smoothly this past year. Our association will be in some new and very capable hands - President Doug Fee and Vice President Don “Wolfman” Wolfe. Outgoing longtime Scholarship Chairman Walt Wilson hands over the reins to Don Wolfe who plans to implement a mentoring program in conjunction with the existing program…a very ambitious and worthy cause and one that we can all support. My plans are to remain an active and participating member of our flying fraternity.

My wish for you all is a wonderful holiday season and a New Year that brings happiness in all things. It has been my pleasure to serve…

Keep the shiny side up…

Wayne Mooneyham

From Wayne Mooneyham, President

It’s that time of the year again - days are getting shorter, autumn leaves are changing colors and falling like rain - summer is over. Other things also happen about this time every year - like changing our clocks to Standard Time; families gathering for special days - Election Day - November 6th, Veteran’s Day - November 11th; Hanukkah - December 3rd; Thanksgiving and then onto Christmas - it’s a busy but wonderful ending for 2018. In the midst of all these celebrations we have our own Association elections. We have a slate of well qualified individuals that the Nominating Committee has vetted and are recommending at this month’s meeting - Wednesday, November 7th. Nominations will also be accepted from the floor.

Since this is a gifting and receiving time of the year, it is an excellent opportunity to consider donating to our Scholarship Program in order to help a deserving youth in their endeavors to pursue a career in aviation. Please keep in mind that our Association is a 501(c)3 organization for tax purposes. And, say… wouldn’t an engraved brick for the Bud Anderson monument, with a personalized inscription on it, look rather “keen” (an old school term) out there with Bud’s statue presiding over it?

As a closing note just to keep things in perspective, I have a quote that we can all live by… “Remember you are just an extra in everyone else’s play” (Franklin D. Roosevelt)

Wayne Mooneyham, President

From President Wayne Mooneyham

Volunteering comes in many different forms and different degrees of responsibility but the ones we, as a society, are most accustomed to are related to civic opportunities. Examples of this include the privilege of registering to vote, serving in a organization, church, or on various committees. Benefits of volunteering can work both ways - for the organization or group or for the individual that is the volunteer. Many of us have experienced the satisfaction of accomplishment and reward that goes with giving of one’s effort and dedication for a worthy cause. 

Our association is a perfect example of a successful organization that is supported and run by volunteers - people who willingly give of their time and expertise for the benefit of the membership. Are their efforts appreciated? Oh, yes, you bet they are! Our association officers and directors positions are coming up for election soon and the time for consideration of some new faces and fresh input is upon us. If you have the required expertise and drive for one of these offices now is the time to let the Nominating Committee know of your interest.  Access our bylaws here.

And, speaking of volunteering, many of us attended the “Biggest Air Show in California” this past September 21, 22 and 23. The event, the California Capital Airshow, coincided with the 100th anniversary of Mather Field as an active military airbase. A number of our members worked at the event - part of an army of several hundred - you guessed it…”volunteers.” Thanks to all who participated! 

I’m looking forward to seeing you all at our October meeting! Thought for the day - Endeavor to make someone’s day better…

Wayne Mooneyham, President

From President Wayne Mooneyham

    “Smoke Gets in Your Eyes” was a product of all the fires in our state for the month of August which reminded me of a popular song by that title written in the early 30’s and recorded by many well-known artists.  It finally made Number One on the charts by the Platters in 1959, coincidentally, the same year that I acquired my Private Pilot’s License.   This whimsical connection to the hazy smoke conditions coupled with  some  record temperatures  made   for   unfavorable   flying   weather  - which meant mostly flight pattern practice for most of us.

     Mather Airport is celebrating its 100th anniversary of service in conjunction with California Capital Airshow this September 21st, 22nd and 23rd.   The USAF Thunderbirds are featured along with a lineup of world class performers and an amazing array of static aircraft and displays.   If you have never, or even recently, attended this annual airshow, then I suggest now is your opportunity to check off this Bucket List item.

     Friday Flydays at our airport has proven to be very well attended and the last one for the year turned out to be, financially, the most rewarding of all of them.  A reduction of the smoky air and cooler temperatures seemed to be key components of the well attended event. Kudos to all who organized and participated in this “airport friendly” gathering.

     Our  AWOS     (Automated   Weather   Observing   System)   is   scheduled   to   be operative   September   4th   or   5th   and   the   runway   LED   lights   installation   begins September 10th with completion by (hopefully) the 15th.  This LED lighting phase will be done during the night hours in order to minimize airport down time.

     Here’s  hoping   we   have   some   CAVU  (Ceiling   and   Visibility   Unrestricted) weather conditions for the month of September which will encourage us to fly a bit more!

     Enjoy your Labor Day holiday and be safe.

 

Wayne Mooneyham

President

 

From Doug Fee Vice-President

Long hot sunny days, warm evenings, and VFR weather . . . . . summer is in full swing around the Auburn Airport. And fortunately, we've had very little smoke so far this fire season (knock on wood). Here's hoping that the ethereal forces that control the weather and the fires continue to treat us kindly until we are rescued by the coming of autumn.

This summer is also seeing another successful season of Friday Flydays put on by the Ben Foss and Diane Hammer team. Our thanks go to them for making this outstanding community event happen. If you haven't been to one yet, there is still time. They are held the 3rd Friday evening of each month, so the next one will be August 17th, from 6:00 until 8:00 PM. Each month has a different theme, and the August event will be a Law Enforcement fundraiser. Admission is free, so come out and enjoy the family fun!

We also have numerous airport projects in the works to maintain and upgrade our facilities. In late July or early August, the runway will be closed from 10:00 PM until 5:00 AM, five nights a week for about two weeks, while crews install new LED runway lighting. Watch the NOTAMS for final scheduling.

The airport experienced a brief power outage recently. It didn't last long but, unfortunately, the resumption of power service generated a spike that damaged some of the phone lines at the airport. This took down the credit card system at the fuel pumps, and also damaged some of the AWOS (weather reporting) equipment. While the credit card system is back working again, the AWOS still needs some new components to be installed before it will be back up to full utility. Those repairs are in the works, but might take a few more months. Meanwhile, we'll have to look out the window to see what the weather really is. I guess that's why we have windsocks.

Airport management is also planning a new slurry seal on our ramp area. The project is currently out for bid, and its hoped that it can be completed before the wet season arrives. Additionally, an upgrade to the waste water handling system at the aircraft wash rack is in the works.

So the summer marches on, and so do the seasonal airport projects. Our thanks to Walt Wilson and all of those at the City of Auburn who help to make these improvements happen.

Blue skies & tailwinds,

Doug

AAA Directory information is now available on your smart phone. Go to the app store and search for “Wild Apricot.” Select the version called Wild Apricot for Members.  Wild Apricot is the company we use to host our member information online.  Use the login you have created on the AAA website to login to the mobile app.  You can view your own listing and see and search a list of other member profiles and their information.  If you want to make changes to your profile or change your privacy settings, you can log in at your desk computer.  Chris Haven can help you with questions: aaacomm1539@gmail.com or 530-401-6082.

 

From Wayne Mooneyham, President 

By now it’s general knowledge that our airport will not be hosting an air fair this year. Several obstacles loomed large midway through the planning, implementing and organizing all the pieces of an event of this caliber. The sudden and tragic passing of Dan Buchanan, hang glider pilot, who was to be the featured attraction and performer was the coup-de-gras in making a “Go, No- Go” decision regarding the event. There were other mitigating factors such as slow commitments of funding and a lack of volunteers for some key positions that contributed to the eventual disappointing cancellation. Having hosted the event for many years, our members understand what it takes to put an event like this together and we extend our thanks to the team for all their commitment and efforts. 

There’s good news though - Auburn Airport is a hub of activity this summer with a variety of functions. Friday Flydays is held on the 3rd Friday through September and Mach5 movie nights will be on the following Saturday each month. Additionally, our EAA Chapter 526 has their Young Eagle program (ages 8 - 17 yrs) and this year they are adding something new. Adults interested in learning to fly can participate in a mentoring program which will provide an introductory flight and information on flight schools if the participant wants to start lessons. 

Our June meeting was very special. Three scholarship recipients were announced - Frank Bell and Renata Mackenroth received $2,500 each and Kelly Bruno received $1,000. Additionally, awards were presented to Jaian Jimenez and Jeanie Marshall for their excellence in their class at Sacramento City College. They each received $1,000 to cover the cost of the required test in order to get their mechanic’s license. Their proud instructor, Kevin Goehring, Professor of Aeronautics, was also present. We had over 60 in attendance! 

That’s it for this issue. I’m off for some Idaho Back Country flying with a few of our Auburn pilots. Thought for the month: Tomorrow is a new day - use it wisely! 

Wayne Mooneyham, President

From Doug Fee, Vice President

As of this publication date, its only about three weeks until the longest day of the year and, here in the foothills, the beginning of the summer flying season is upon us. To me, that brings three things to mind: Heat, VFR weather and AIRSHOWS! Heat. Whether you love it or hate it, its coming. And along with that heat come changes in the performance of your air machine. Even at the moderate altitudes of our airports here locally, on a hot day, you can see density altitudes that will result in aircraft performance reminiscent of serious mountain flying. Are you ready? VFR weather. Woo hoo! Clear skies almost every day! But keep in mind that, when its hot inland, the typical Northern California weather pattern will often bring low clouds to the coastline. During the summer, AUN can be clear and in the 90s, while Half Moon Bay might have a low overcast, and be in the 60s with drizzle. Also, while we don't get the sort of heavy infusion of thunderstorms that are prevalent in the Midwest and the South, its not uncommon to see some significant afternoon cumulus build-ups over the Sierras. Just enough to keep your flying life interesting! And, finally Airshows! We've got some good ones coming up to put on your calendar: The Truckee-Tahoe Air Show will be held July 14. Just a short, beautiful drive up into the Sierras--or only 49 nm by air. The California Capitol Air Show  will be September 21, 22 & 23 at Mather Field. We are truly fortunate to have one of our state's premier aviation events just a hop, skip and a jump down the road from us. Only 31 miles by car, or 26 nm by air. There's no good reason not to go and rub elbows with some of our Auburn locals who will be there. The USAF Thunderbirds will be performing this year. The Auburn Air Fair is scheduled for September 29. It is even closer than Mather Field. In fact, its located exactly ZERO miles from us. This year’s theme is "Honoring Our First Responders." Come out, join the fun, and help support our aviation community here in Auburn. And finally, San Francisco Fleet Week Air Show to be held on the waterfront October 6 & 7, a spectacle that will include the USN Blue Angels. Go out there and enjoy all those things that our Northern California aviation community has to offer in family entertainment this season! Blue skies, smooth air & tailwinds, Doug Fee P.S. For more fun family entertainment, don't forget that Diane Hammer and Ben Foss are spearheading "Fly-Day Fridays" again this year. Third Friday evening each month. Next one will be June 15th. 

From Wayne Mooneyham, President

As per my usual modus operandi of “wait ’til the deadline is upon me” before I lay a pen to paper for the President’s Message, here I am once again up against a hard deadline of tonight. The good news is that ideas for this endeavor spring forth as if the waters are gushing over the spillway, i.e., think of the Lake Orville debacle - total chaos and confusion.

Obviously, spring is upon us - and with it comes wonderful weather and long days filled with outings, meetings, destination flying and the never ending yard work. Social activities at our gem airport abound - it’s time to take to the skies! All of these things translate to almost overlapping events on any given day.

Walt Wilson, our Scholarship Chairman, reports that the interview process for our 13 applicants will take place Saturday, April 28th, which is also the same day to display your vintage aircraft or to attend the mountain flying seminar at Lincoln Airport. Yours truly is committed to all of these functions and is an example of what I was referring to - i.e., overlapping events on the spring calendar.

The AAA Board of Directors will have met to discuss a number of issues that need to be resolved by the time members receive this. Friday, May 18th at 1700 hrs kicks off the summer monthly “Friday Flydays” charitable event series. The first month’s beneficiary is the Bud Anderson Scholarship Program. WWII aircraft and jeeps, plus a DC-3 and free BBQ guarantee lots of entertaining things to do.

As many of you know we are in the process of trying to acquire a different airport radio frequency (122.775) from the FCC. This is a safety issue due to the frequent interference with several other airports. This is now in the “Application Process” with the FCC. If granted, there will be plenty of notice before it is put into use.

Don Wolfe, our Scholarship Program Development Director, reports that we’ve added a NEW Scholarship Fund Donation ‘DONATE” tab to the AAA Membership Renewal page. This will enable you to make an optional, voluntary contribution to the Scholarship Fund when you log in to renew your membership or at any other time. The donation is tax deductible. As a reminder, since we are no longer sponsoring the biannual Auburn Air Fair, donations are our main source for supporting our scholarship program. Thanks to Captain Wolfe for his ongoing

contributions to our organization.
Hope to see you the first Wednesday each

month—entertaining speakers, good food and an opportunity to socialize with fellow aviation enthusiasts makes for a great way to spend one of these spring/summer evenings.

Thought for the month - “Don’t Procrastinate.”

Regards,
Wayne Mooneyham, President 

From President Wayne Mooneyham

The Auburn Air Fair Committee held their ninth meeting the evening of February 15th with at least a dozen volunteers in attendance, including “yours truly” for my first time. The group is very organized and has plans for what will be a superb event for our airport. September 29th should be a grand gathering of many different types of aircraft on static display not to mention all of the entertaining activities for the youth and we who are young at heart! Flight simulators, jump houses, possibly a rock climbing wall, collector-car display and a variety of “fly-by’s” of military aircraft are just a few of the attractions planned. Checkout their website www.auburnairfair.com for complete details. Also, they are recruiting volunteers to help in a variety of areas so if you would like to participate let them know.

It has been brought to my attention that a bit more caution needs to be taken concerning where our prop wash is directed during our engine check in the run up area at the east end (R/W 25). There are several taxiway alleys between the east end hangars that are affected with debris by the aircraft that are tailed toward them. A little care and courtesy will pay big goodwill dividends.

A safety issue that our airport has been co-existing with for years is the multiple users of airport VHF frequency 122.7. This frequency is shared with several other airports within interference range and on any given day you may be transmitting your flight intentions at the same time as someone else. The transmissions of both aircraft is therefore missed by everyone on this frequency. A good example of a shared user would be the Nut Tree Airport. We are in the process of investigating how to change to 122.775 which has no duplication in Northern California. I will keep you updated on this important issue.

Thought for the month: Pursue your goals.

Wayne Mooneyham President