AMA announced that we have been granted a National Authorization allowing members at AMA club sites (in Class G airspace) to operate above 400 feet above ground level (AGL) for routine, day-to-day activities. Based on our specific location in Class G airspace, our sites (i.e. East/West/South fields and Vern Lake) will all have a new altitude limit up to 700 feet.  Note, the South field is not an official AAM flying site (yet), nor is it a FRIA, but that future location is chartered and has the altitude waiver.

Please note that this authorization comes with a few stipulations.  For example, 700 feet AGL is only applicable during daylight hours.  Nighttime operations are still limited to 400 feet AGL.  Also, contrary to my earlier understanding, AMA sanctioned events WILL still require a NOTAM to be filed with FAA.  Please note, a copy of the Official “Certificate of Authorization” as well as other FAA information can be found on the Resources page.

The latest edition of then monthly Hi-Flyer newsletter is now available!  Check it out for club updates including lock changes, meeting schedules, and policy changes.  

Jerry Schafer (74) passed away on January 4th after a pretty nasty battle with cancer. There was a memorial for him on January 30th. I apologize that we were not able to publish this prior to the memorial. Jerry was not a current member, and it has been a good while since he had been. However, many of us old-timer’s may remember him. I knew Jerry going back to the 80’s and 90’s. He loved fast planes. I think everything he owned had a tuned-pipe on it. He also lived close by here in Arvada. Occasionally, while on a walk, he’d stop me to chat. He was usually driving somewhere, but he always stopped to shoot the breeze. For years, our wives worked out together at the Apex and other nearby facilities. Last time I saw Jerry was in September, or there-a-bouts. He was on his way to get treatment. Attached below is a link to his obituary. Godspeed Jerry… may you soar with the eagles!

Joe Pirozzoli, President

PS… I would like to acknowledge Stan Clymer for bringing this to my attention.

The annual Frozen Fun Finger Fly will again be held New Year’s Day. The contest for the coveted FFFF traveling trophy will start roughly at 10 am. Obviously, get there a bit earlier if you need a trim flight.

There will be 2 classes this year… Sportsman and Junior. I was so inspired by the recent Junior event, that there will be a “Junior” class, with customized events. As such, the winner of the trophy could come from either class. Also, as usual, there will be a $5 landing fee (to help fund the coffee and donuts). Hope to see you there!

Best regards,
Joe Pirozzoli, President

January member meeting canceled. Have a wonderful New Year!

I was just informed (by Paul P.) of the passing of Greg Flowers, former AAM club and board member. I don’t know how many of you knew Greg, but he served the Club as membership coordinator for a couple of years up through 2019. Greg passed away on November 23, 2024 at the age of just 44. Greg’s Celebration of Life service will be this Thursday December. 5, 2024 at Olinger Crown Hill at 11:00 a.m. in Serenity Pointe in Wheat Ridge, CO. A reception will follow at 12 pm. Here is the link to Greg’s obituary. God’s speed my friend!

Joe Pirozzoli, President

the event tomorrow is our last float fly of the season and will have a delayed start at about 9:30 am.

I was just very recently informed that one of the grand old gentlemen of our Club, George Baxter, passed away.  From his Obituary (see link below)…

George Baxter of Wheat Ridge, Colorado died peacefully at home after his third battle with cancer. He worked at the Denver Federal Center for 37 years. He loved building and flying model airplanes. He is survived by his wife, Dorothy, of 57 years, two sons, and two grand-children.

A Memorial Service will be held on October 19th at 2:00 PM, at Christ Community Covenant Church : 6757 Simms St, Arvada, CO, 80004.

https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/wheat-ridge-co/george-baxter-12017785

I am told that his wife, Dorothy, specifically requested that this information be shared with the entire Club.  I also assume that means anyone that would like to attend the memorial service next weekend would be welcome to do so.

Solemnly yours,

Joe Pirozzoli, President