|
| |
Toys for Tots 2000
The Toys:
On Sunday October 15, the Southern NH Flying Eagles Radio Control Club held
a Toys for Tots event at their field in Merrimack. In order to
fly that day, every RC pilot had to donate a toy to the
program. The goal for the event was to raise 100 toys to
present to the US Marine Corps. Several dignitaries
attended the event including Congressmen Charlie Bass and JohnSununnu; Dean
Shankle, Merrimack Town Manager; Merrimack Selectmen Tony Holevas, Fran
L'Hereaux, and Chris Christensen; State Representative Bob L'Hereaux;
and Mary Jo Smith, wife of Senator Bob Smith. The US Marines were represented by
Corporal Sobol, and Lance Corporals James Apicella and Nicholas Baker. Also
attending was Don Kraft, AMA Vice President for the New England states. The AMA
(Academy of Model Aeronautics) is the national governing body for 2500 RC clubs
around the nation.
Presentations:
Al Kapriellian, our most colorful NH weatherman, acted as Master of
Ceremonies as the club welcomed all the VIPs and made its presentation of the
toys to the Marines. Club founder, Bob Lacroix's, made the announcement that the
event was a total success with 225 toys being donated plus
over $200 in cash!
First Time Pilots:
Most of the invited guests were given a chance to fly a radio
controlled airplane under the guidance of Jim Burns, a
club flying instructor, and primary test pilot. Using what
is called a "buddy box", each of the participants
was able to fly the plane using a radio that is connected in tandem with Jim's.
If the plane goes out of control, Jim can immediately take back control and
right the model, then turn it back to the student pilot. Everyone who tried it
had a great time. Many of the kids who attended also got a chance to "try
out the sticks" and several commented they would like to own an RC plane
some day.
The Field:
The Flying Eagles want to thank all of the RC pilots from the area who came
to fly and donate a toy. Club President, Joel Chappell, said the club was deeply
moved by the tremendous response from the general public who attended and
brought gifts. It was estimated that half of the toys were donated by visitors
and guests. The club is also grateful to Mark Versprille, the club member
who spearheaded and organized this wonderfully successful event. Mark's
organizational skills and dedication to a good cause made all the difference,
and he was saluted by the club for his hard work.
Just a few of the Planes:
|
