Welcome to the Midstate Modelers of Caughdenoy, NY, a club devoted to the safe and fun flying of radio controlled (R/C) model aircraft. We are a simple club and could probably best be described as casual. Our main goals are to have a nice flying field and to fly model aircraft, as well as socializing and enjoying the company of the other members. We do not have formal competitive events, and are always eager to help a new modeler get started and flying. The Midstate Modelers, originally from Cazenovia, came to Cicero in 1972 and then moved to Caughdenoy in 2012 to our new home -- the "Howard Golden Memorial Park" which is the property of the North Syracuse Baptist Church. The field was cleared, groomed and flown off the same summer. The runway measures 100 by 500 feet and there is riverfront access to the Oneida River downstream from the dam in the village of Caughdenoy for float flying, picnics and other recreational activities. We welcome all new members. If you are thinking of getting into radio-controlled model airplane building and flying, then a club is definitely the way to go. We are always looking for new members to help keep the club strong, and we have many members qualified to help you learn the tricky art of flying. It's much more difficult than it looks! When? Chances are any decent weekday evening or weekend afternoon, someone will be there to help, just ask! However training flights are best on calm days. | ||||||||||||
New modelers are sometimes disappointed they can't fly their new bird on a given day because of a seemingly simple reason, so here are a few common problem areas to check before coming out to the field: A. Balance - (see instructions that came with the model, balance with no fuel in the tank) B. Charge - charge nickel cadmium batteries 18 hours before flying no matter how little they were used last time, even if it has only been a few days since the last full charging. C. Control Surfaces - Gaps more than 1/16 of an inch between surfaces can cause problems. (this must be dealt with during building) Also be sure hinges used are secure, and able to withstand a few bumps and jabs when loading into the car. (Many model mishaps happen when simply getting the model to the field.) D. Engine Reliability - this a must for all gas powered planes. Try to break in a new engine in the following way:
E. Servos - make sure all servos are securely mounted with screws -- especially the wing mounted aileron servo. Be sure the servo wheel screw is installed on all servos. Also make sure all push rods move freely when everything is assembled, be careful not to let servo wires become tangled in servo arms or push rods. | ||||||||||||
Club RulesTo help make things safe and pleasant for everyone, here are some of the club rules:
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Club MeetingsWe hold club meetings only when necessary, at a local restaurant or member's home during the winter, and at the field during the summer. While attendance is not mandatory, those who come usually have a good time. Our club caters to the young and old alike, with many of the members being retired and having many years of model building and flying experience. So if you have any questions, feel free to contact the following people:
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LocationOur field is about 5 minutes from the route 81 Brewerton exit. Here is a link on Google Maps of our field:
If you would like to contact a local hobby dealer to help you get started, try the following in our area:
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Thanks for your interest in this exciting sport / hobby, and our club. See ya at the field!--The Midstate Modelers |