Membership Handbook & Bylaws
ver. 20140902.1
North Bay Soaring Society :: Charter Club #137of the Academy of Model Aeronautics :: www.NorthBaySoaring.com
2
Revision History
Version
Date
Changes
Author
19990507
05/07/1999
Original handbook from NBSS
(unknown)
20131114.1
11/14/2013
Updated format, updated graphics, updated website URL,
added references to 2.4 GHz radios and fire extinguisher
requirements, added Bylaws section, updated club roster,
updated club membership fee and contact information on
application form. Commented with changes and sent to
membership for approval. Approved by Pres. Frank Ketcham.
Peter Leabo
20131115.1
11/15/2013
Removed comments, added revision history, updated club
roster. Submitted to AMA as attachment for recharter.
Peter Leabo
20131205.1
12/05/2013
Peter Leabo
20140218.1
02/18/2014
Clarification to fire extinguisher requirements per Frank
Ketcham request. Updated membership roster phone
numbers.
Updated roster and added MFCC contacts
20140902.1
09/02/2014
Additional clarification of MFCC site rules
Peter Leabo
Peter Leabo
North Bay Soaring Society :: Charter Club #137of the Academy of Model Aeronautics :: www.NorthBaySoaring.com
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Contents
Mission .......................................................................................................................................................... 4
NBSS at Marin French Cheese Factory .......................................................................................................... 5
Rules & Regulations ...................................................................................................................................... 5
Site Regulations......................................................................................................................................... 6
Flight Line Regulations .............................................................................................................................. 6
Guest/Visitor Regulations ......................................................................................................................... 7
Organizational Bylaws of NBSS ..................................................................................................................... 8
Membership .................................................................................................................................................. 8
Annual Meeting............................................................................................................................................. 8
NBSS Officers................................................................................................................................................. 8
President ................................................................................................................................................... 9
Vice President ........................................................................................................................................... 9
Secretary / Treasurer ................................................................................................................................ 9
Safety Coordinator .................................................................................................................................... 9
Duties: ................................................................................................................................................... 9
Other Activities: .................................................................................................................................... 9
NBSS Membership ...................................................................................................................................... 11
Marin French Cheese Co. Contacts ............................................................................................................. 12
Membership Application ............................................................................................................................ 13
Directions to Marin French Cheese Co, 7500 Red Hill Rd, Petaluma, CA 94952 ............................... 13
North Bay Soaring Society :: Charter Club #137of the Academy of Model Aeronautics :: www.NorthBaySoaring.com
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Mission
The North Bay Soaring Society is dedicated to the promotion of radio-controlled
silent flight in a safe and considerate manner, while maintaining a cordial and
mutually beneficial relationship with the Marin French Cheese Company as well
as the surrounding communities.
North Bay Soaring Society :: Charter Club #137of the Academy of Model Aeronautics :: www.NorthBaySoaring.com
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NBSS at Marin French Cheese Factory
The following rules, regulations, and code of conduct governing The North Bay Soaring Society (NBSS)
includes, but is not limited to, the Academy of Model Aeronautics (AMA) regulations, which are
provided to each member of the AMA.
Membership requirements for the North Bay Soaring Society are a current AMA membership and NBSS
club membership fee paid to the club treasury. NBSS club membership is open to all members of the
community and surrounding areas. Prior to membership, visitors, guests, and potential new members
are eligible to participate in club activities through a guest membership (see Guest/Visitor Regulations).
Hours available for NBSS club members to utilize the flying site facilities at the Marin French Cheese
Company (MFCC) shall be limited to the hours of 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM local time daily. However,
exceptions for club contests and other events may be made through prior arrangement with the MFCC.
North Bay Soaring Society has a long and cordial history with the MFCC. It is imperative that all members
understand and respect that we are guests on the property of the Marin French Cheese Company
facilities. In return, it is the duty and responsibility of each club member to maintain this cordial
relationship through safety and consideration. In addition, members are strongly encouraged to
promote and support the products and activities of the Marin French Cheese Company.
Rules & Regulations
The following rules and regulations as well as those of the AMA are set forth to provide safe and orderly
operations. However, no rules can cover every situation. All members are expected to exercise sound
judgment and common sense to ensure that our 30-year history of accident- and incident-free flying is
maintained.
Failure to comply with the rules and regulations of the North Bay Soaring Society or AMA may result in
the suspension or expulsion from the North Bay Soaring Society.
North Bay Soaring Society :: Charter Club #137of the Academy of Model Aeronautics :: www.NorthBaySoaring.com
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Site Regulations
1. Safety will at all times be in the forefront of consideration as to not jeopardize persons and/or
property.
2. Normal hours of flying are limited to 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM local time on Sundays. Flying on any
day other than Sunday requires prior permission from the MFCC management. Such requests
for permission should be submitted via a NBSS club officer a minimum of three days in advance
of the desired flight day.
3. Thoughtfulness and consideration will at all times be given to the owner, employees, and
visitors of the MFCC.
4. While on the premises of the MFCC, a 5 MPH speed limit for all vehicles shall be strictly
observed to provide for the safety of visitors, livestock, and minimize dust on dirt roads.
5. Careless or reckless flying is strictly prohibited.
6. No pets are allowed on the flying field at any time, or allowed to run loose on MFCC property.
7. No smoking is allowed on the flying field at any time. Smoking restrictions set forth by the MFCC
will be adhered to.
8. All gates must be closed after entering or exiting the premises.
9. NBSS has a strict no-litter policy. All member litter and any other visible litter shall be picked up
and properly disposed of before a member leaves the MFCC flying site.
10. Proper restroom facilities are provided and shall be utilized when necessary.
11. All NBSS equipment shall be picked up and put away prior to the last member leaving the flying
site.
12. If an NBSS member has any question about the rules and regulations and/or a member feels a
rule or regulation has been violated, it must be brought immediately to the attention of a club
officer for action, clarification, or resolution.
13. NBSS club officers will make themselves available to club members and the MFCC to answer any
questions and resolve any issues of conflict.
14. Profanity and/or offensive language will not be tolerated on the grounds of the MFCC or during
meetings and activities of the NBSS.
Flight Line Regulations
1. Each member is required to have a current AMA membership card and have a current NBSS
membership when flying at MFCC and during club-sponsored activities.
2. When arriving at the flying field, members will introduce themselves to other members and
discuss intentions to ensure safe, orderly operations.
3. Members who are not using 2.4 GHz Spread Spectrum Technology transmitters are required to
announce their frequency to all other members prior to turning on the transmitter to ensure
that it will not cause interference.
4. Prior to launch, the winch operator and/or flyer will ensure that a safe launch can be made and
that the winch line and launch path are clear of obstructions, property and persons.
North Bay Soaring Society :: Charter Club #137of the Academy of Model Aeronautics :: www.NorthBaySoaring.com
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5. Prior to launch (after ensuring a safe launch can be made) the winch operator or flyer will
announce “Launching” to inform others of intentions.
6. Prior to landing, if possible, flyers will announce “Landing” to alert and inform others of
intentions.
7. Each member is required to have his/her name and address located in some location on their
model to ensure its return to its rightful owner.
8. If at any time the controllability of a model is in question, a call of “Heads Up” will be made to
alert others of the condition so appropriate action can be taken.
9. NBSS is dedicated to silent flight. No gas or glow plug powered models are allowed. Electric
power may be used as a means for launching aircraft, but not for continuous flight.
10. Every NBSS member will be responsible for bringing a fire extinguisher to any club flying
activities at MFCC.
Guest/Visitor Regulations
1. Guests and visitors will at all times be under the supervision of a club member who shall be
responsible for ensuring that all NBSS and MFCC rules and regulations are followed.
2. Guest membership is available to those who possess a current AMA membership, whereupon
they are able to fly at NBSS facilities under the supervision of a member for a total of three
occasions prior submitting membership fee.
North Bay Soaring Society :: Charter Club #137of the Academy of Model Aeronautics :: www.NorthBaySoaring.com
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Organizational Bylaws of NBSS
All members of North Bay Soaring Society must have current membership in the Academy of Model
Aeronautics (AMA) and are expected to abide by all the rules, regulations and code of conduct as set
forth by the AMA.
Membership
Membership is open to any current AMA member with a passion for silent flight. Electric power may be
used as a means for launching aircraft, but not for continuous flight.
Membership dues are paid to the club treasury.
Annual Meeting
An annual meeting of the NBSS membership will be held in January of each year. The meeting shall
consist of a President's report, Treasurer's financial report, and Safety Coordinator's report, and election
of club officers.
Members may propose changes (additions/deletions/modifications) to the club bylaws. Such proposals
will require 2/3 vote of the membership for approval.
Club officers are elected by a simple majority of the combined vote of those present plus any votes cast
via email in advance of the meeting.
NBSS Officers
NBSS officers are elected to serve for a term of one year, or until such time that an election may be
conducted if more than a year has elapsed. The duties of NBSS officers include, but are not restricted
to:
North Bay Soaring Society :: Charter Club #137of the Academy of Model Aeronautics :: www.NorthBaySoaring.com
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President
The president shall be the executive officer of the club and shall preside at all meetings. He or she shall
be the spokesperson for the club. He or she shall appoint standings and special committees as he deems
necessary. He or she will cast the deciding vote in any case where a tie vote is encountered.
Vice President
The vice president shall assist the president in all matters and shall assume the duties of the president if
for any reason the president is not able to perform his or her duties. He or she shall be responsible for
the club meeting schedules and other club schedules events which may be necessary or requested by
the club officers or members.
Secretary / Treasurer
The secretary/treasurer shall keep accurate minutes of all regular scheduled and called club meetings
and record meeting attendance. He or she shall maintain an up-to-date membership record of all
members including their name, mailing addresses, AMA membership numbers, and telephone numbers.
He or she shall have charge of all club funds. He or she shall collect dues when they are due and is
authorized to pay any and all club obligations from these funds. He or she shall keep appropriate records
of all club monetary transactions and shall provide a treasurer’s report at each scheduled club meeting.
If the vice president, for any reason, is unable to perform his or her duties, the secretary/treasurer shall
assist or take over the duties of the vice president as needed.
Safety Coordinator
To promote increased safety awareness on the part of all members, improve the public perception of
modeling as a safe and desirable sport, and provide a means by which important safety information can
be shared between clubs, AMA chartered clubs are required to establish the position of safety
coordinator. This person will act as a communications liaison between the club and AMA Headquarters
to ensure timely distribution of safety related material. The club safety coordinator must have E-mail
access.
Duties:
1. Provide a communications link between AMA and NBSS members in matters related to safety.
2. Act as a safety advisor and resource manager for the NBSS and its members.
3. Develop, promote, and encourage a climate of safety awareness within NBSS membership.
Other Activities:
•
Inspect operational areas for proper signage and safety equipment as applicable.
•
Conduct safety awareness training and related programs during club meetings as needed.
•
Conduct, at least annually, a safety audit of club facilities, equipment, and grounds to ensure
everything is in good working order and safe for normal use by members and the public.
•
Act as a liaison with the local EMS/Fire Department.
•
Establish a club emergency action plan to handle serious accidents/incidents.
North Bay Soaring Society :: Charter Club #137of the Academy of Model Aeronautics :: www.NorthBaySoaring.com
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•
Immediately report to AMA Headquarters any incidents at the club field. During normal business
hours, call (765) 287-1256; after hours call (765) 749-9210.
•
Review emergency procedures (fire and rescue) with club members on an annual basis.
North Bay Soaring Society :: Charter Club #137of the Academy of Model Aeronautics :: www.NorthBaySoaring.com
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NBSS Membership
FULLNAME
POSITION
PHONE_HM
Mike Clancy
Bob Film
Anthony Ketcham
Frank Ketcham
Peter Leabo
Aric Wilmunder
Safety Coordinator
415-897-2917
707-823-1165
President
Secretary/Treasurer
Vice President
707-778-9281
415-892-0800
PHONE_CELL
EMAIL
415-342-9381
415-999-7830
707-340-3480
415-747-4570
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
North Bay Soaring Society :: Charter Club #137of the Academy of Model Aeronautics :: www.NorthBaySoaring.com
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Marin French Cheese Co. Contacts
FULLNAME
POSITION
PHONE
PHONE_CELL
EMAIL
Charles Willard
Cheri Katen
Delores Ugarte
Christina Chavez
Lynne Devereux
Philippe Chevrollier
Sr. Project Engineer
Gen. Administrator
Retail Manager
Marketing & Sales
Marketing Manager
General Manager
707-762-6001
707-762-6001
707-762-6001
707-762-6001
707-762-6001
707-762-6001
707-888-4982
707-888-0478
[email protected]
[email protected]
925-872-6691
707-996-4477
[email protected]
[email protected]
North Bay Soaring Society :: Charter Club #137of the Academy of Model Aeronautics :: www.NorthBaySoaring.com
Membership Application
Name:
______________________________________
Address:
______________________________________
City:
_________________________
E-Mail:
_________________________
ST: ____ Zip: ________________
Phone: (home): _________________________
Phone (cell):
_________________________
AMA #:
_________________________
By applying for membership in North Bay Soaring Society, I hereby agree to maintain current
membership in the Academy of Model Aeronautics (AMA). By doing so, I will be covered by AMA's
insurance policy, which protects myself, other club members and our flying site owner while I am
operating my model aircraft. I agree to adhere to the rules of NBSS and the rules of the AMA.
Signature:
______________________________________
Date: ____________
Skill Level: Beginner ____ Novice ____ Sportsman ____ Expert ____
League of Silent Flight Level: ________ I would like LSF Information ____
The NBSS flying site at the Marin French Cheese Company offers some of the finest thermal soaring
conditions in one of the most beautiful settings in the nation. A short walk from the flying site, the Marin
French Cheese Company, world renown for the Rouge et Noir soft ripened cheese it has produced for
more than a century, features a complete deli with nearby picnic facilities and duck pond, and a
barbeque area that may be reserved for larger gatherings.
NBSS membership dues are $25 per year for adults and $10 per year for anyone under 18 years old.
Membership runs from Jan. 1 through Dec. 31. NBSS is a charter club of the Academy of Model
Aeronautics (AMA). Current membership in the AMA is required of all NBSS members. Please send your
application, a copy of your current AMA card, and a check for your dues to: North Bay Soaring Society,
5 Turnberry Court, Petaluma, CA 94952-5253.
Directions to Marin French Cheese Co, 7500 Red Hill Rd, Petaluma, CA 94952
From Petaluma, take East Washington into Petaluma, left on Lakeville and right on D Street. Follow D
Street about 9 miles. The MFCC is about 1/4 mile past Novato Blvd. on the right.
From Novato, take San Marin Drive to Novato Blvd. Turn right and follow Novato Blvd. for about 9 miles.
Turn left on Petaluma-Pt. Reyes Road. The MFCC is about 1/4 mile on the right.
North Bay Soaring Society :: Charter Club #137of the Academy of Model Aeronautics :: www.NorthBaySoaring.com