Purposed Development and Operation Plan

Purposed Development and Operation Plan Okeechobee County Radio Controlled Sports Park a STEM Activity & Learning Center Prepared & Presented By:Okeechobee Model Airplane Club, Inc.Contact, Joe Papasso President

OMAC hosting a Salute to Veterans at the club field for the community. This was an open invitation War Bird Fly-in for pilots from all around the area. Purpose: To assist Okeechobee County as well as to provide the technical knowledge necessary to establish and operate a Radio Control Sports Park in Okeechobee County for the use and good of the community. Okeechobee County Radio Control Sports Parkpresented by the Okeechobee Model Airplane Club, Inc.

RC Sports is a family activity where skills and knowledge are passed between generations. Here a son who was taught full sized flying by his father gives his father a hand flying RC. Overview: Develop a County RC Sports Park as a multi-faceted Park built around RC Sports and open to the public.  The park will be home to local RC Clubs  Operate as a partnership with local RC Clubs and the County  Designed to encourage families to visit  Provide activities to engage our youth in STEM applications  Host regional Model Aircraft and/or Racing events attracting tourism to town Okeechobee County Radio Control Sports Parkpresented by the Okeechobee Model Airplane Club, Inc.

The Okeechobee Model Airplane Club has always supported community events and worked hand and hand with other STEM oriented youth organizations like the Civil Air Patrol. This park will give all organizations an opportunity to co-exist and share educational opportunities Concept: The RC Sports Park is proposed to be located in an underutilized portion of the Agri-Civic Center in the northwestern corner. As the site exists today, it is immediately usable. However, minimal future improvements as presented in this proposal will enhance the purpose and usage of the facility for all involved. Final Conceptual RC Sports Park Includes:  37 Acre Overall Park Size  27 Acre RC Model Airplane Flying Site  1 Acre RC Model Car Race Track  1 Acre (including pit area) boat pond (existing)  1 Acre Public Parking & Spectator Area  Aircraft & Car Racing Themed Playground Okeechobee County Radio Control Sports Parkpresented by the Okeechobee Model Airplane Club, Inc.

Organization:  The RC Sports Park would operate as a partnership with Okeechobee County and local RC Clubs.  The partnership would form a committee of a County designated department or representation and two members from each RC Club or Organization based at the Park.  Each club using the facility would be a Charter Organization under a National Organization which provides safety guidelines and insurance for it’s members and land owners (the County). AMA ~ Academy of Model Aeronautics ROAR ~ Remotely Operated Auto Racers NAMBA ~ north American Model Boat Assn. Okeechobee County Radio Control Sports Parkpresented by the Okeechobee Model Airplane Club, Inc.

Conceptually the park would operate and be managed as a Master Association with the County controlling the Master along with each participating organization. Each organization would then be responsible for their specific areas of knowledge and interests. Okeechobee County Radio Control Sports Parkpresented by the Okeechobee Model Airplane Club, Inc. Organization (continued)  The County would provide overall facility maintenance of the unused portion of the park  The Committee would oversee maintenance of the common area of the facility. Cost for this maintenance would be collected equally from the clubs which call the park “home.”  Each club would be responsible for developing and maintaining their own specific facility (i.e. the runway and track as well as associated pit areas.)  Funding for common area development (playground, bathrooms, etc.) can be raised through grants or public donations

Our research has determined that individual Leases ($1 nominal fee) between the county for and by each specific area of interest is the best way to establish the overall responsibilities of each party as well as providing each group to operate and enforce rules specific to and within the guidelines of their national organizations who provide the insurance Okeechobee County Radio Control Sports Parkpresented by the Okeechobee Model Airplane Club, Inc. Specific Operation:  To facilitate operation, each Organization would lease the land from the County specific to their area of responsibility for $1 per year. The Lease would establish the Rules of Operation for that area of the park. Each respective Club would then be responsible through the Lease to enforce their National Organization Membership (required for insurance purposes) as well as local club rules for safety reasons.  The Lease would also establish development and maintenance responsibilities (cost) specific to each respective Club.  The Lease would be long term and include a renewal clause.

Suggested Partner Organizations: Field Partner Associations:  Okeechobee Model Airplane Club, Inc.  Okeechobee RC Racing Club, Inc. Future Partner Associations:  RC Power Boating Club  RC Airboat Club  RC Sailing Club Okeechobee County Radio Control Sports Parkpresented by the Okeechobee Model Airplane Club, Inc.

The proposed location of the Okeechobee County RC Park is convenient to town and highly visible from Route 70. With no local residences there will be no nuisance noise. The proposed use of the existing Agri-Civic Center will considerable reduce development costs. The location within the site provides excellent access as well as visibility. There may also be Federal or State credits or funding available for the development of an RC Sports Park Locator Map: Proposed County RC Park Ground Footprint Okeechobee County Radio Control Sports Parkpresented by the Okeechobee Model Airplane Club, Inc.

The Conceptual Site Plan identifies the locations of activities as well as the proposed areas of responsibility for the various organizations who would make up the Master Organization Conceptual Site Plan: 19 Acre East/West Flight Box RC Airpark w/ Pilot Parking Area 19 Acre North/South Spectator Parking Flight box Future Playground Track (2 tracks) w/ Parking & Pit Area Future Boat Pit & Parking Existing Pond for RC Boating Okeechobee County Radio Control Sports Parkpresented by the Okeechobee Model Airplane Club, Inc.

The overall layout was developed around the specific needs of each organization based upon guidelines provided by their national organizations. Public parking utilizes existing parking facilities and is central to all activity centers. Full ADA Compliant access to all facilities was also considered as the conceptual plans were developed. Expanded Conceptual Plan Proposed Grass Runway Proposed E/W (Primary) Runway & N/S (Secondary) Runway on Existing Paving Areas Utilize Existing Grass Parking For Spectator Parking Future Playground RC Car Area including Tracks (2) & Pit Area Additional Spectator Parking Future Boating Pit & Parking Existing Pond for RC Boating Okeechobee County Radio Control Sports Parkpresented by the Okeechobee Model Airplane Club, Inc.

The overall layout was developed around the specific needs of each organization based upon guidelines provided by their national organizations. Public parking utilizes existing parking facilities and is central to all activity centers. Full ADA Compliant access to all facilities was also considered as the conceptual plans were developed. Expanded Conceptual Plan Proposed Grass Runway Proposed E/W Runway Safety Fence (typical (Primary) & both runways) N/S Runway (Secondary) Aircraft pilot parking On Existing & Pit Area Paving Areas Spectator Parking Future Playground RC Car Area including Additional Spectator Parking 2 Tracks & Pit Area Existing Pond for RC Boating Future Boating Pit & Parking Okeechobee County Radio Control Sports Parkpresented by the Okeechobee Model Airplane Club, Inc.

The components for the RC Flying field including all safety fencing, pit tables, shade structure and windsock already exist and will can be relocated from their present location at Larson Dairy to this site by the Okeechobee Model Airplane Club. Conceptual Flying Site Plan Proposed Grass Runway Existing ditch to be filled see detail Runways on existing paving Safety Fence installed in center of grass strip Windsock Pit Area on grass Shade Structure Pilot Parking in existing Grass Parking Area Safety Fence Pits, Parking (typical) Extended Safety Barrier Flying Site Layout is based upon AMA recommended guidelines Okeechobee County Radio Control Sports Parkpresented by the Okeechobee Model Airplane Club, Inc.

The Track design is actually two very different track designs sharing a common Driver Area. Both tracks were based upon existing operating designs. The final design will meet ROAR standards allowing regional sanctioned racing events. Conceptual Track Site Plan End of N/S (Secondary)Runway Flight Box Extended Safety & Safety Fence & Separation Pit Area Fence Track #1 (dirt) Common Driver & Track Pit Area Timekeeper Raised Area Track #2 (flat) Additional Spectator Parking Spectator Driver Parking Parking Okeechobee County Radio Control Sports Parkpresented by the Okeechobee Model Airplane Club, Inc.

The existing pond can function as a boat pond with minimal improvement, mostly some bank/slope clean up. It will however require a developed entry point which could be a dock of flat area of bank at or near water level. Conceptual Boat Pond End of Track Spectator Parking Boat Captain Parking Safety Fence & Pit Area Existing Pond Boat Pit Area Okeechobee County Radio Control Sports Parkpresented by the Okeechobee Model Airplane Club, Inc.

Conceptual Playground Plan: Flight Spectator Benches Line Beyond Flight Line Beyond Completely Fenced in Shade Structure Proposed is a Rogallo Wing Playground Theme: Aviation & Auto Racing Playground proposed is like a Control Tower, complete with a Wind Sock Okeechobee County Radio Control Sports Parkpresented by the Okeechobee Model Airplane Club, Inc.

Aviation experts have concurred that while today’s airport security standards are necessary, the security has also locked our children out from airports. What goes on beyond the locked gates is not only a secret to many, it has also locked our youth’s imagination because it is also now a mystery to them. In days gone by a young person could interact with the aircraft & pilots and dream of flight. This park could open up those imaginations once again. Benefits:  The Park would create a unique family oriented recreational facility within the county that does not exist today.  The activities at this park are all technical in nature and therefore can be an asset and outreach facility for the county in STEM Education applications.  RC Model Aircraft & RC Model car racing have an extensive national following. Regional and National Events are held through out the area which draw thousands of participants and spectators.  Properly sanctioned and run events in either venue can be a boost to tourism and the local economy. Okeechobee County Radio Control Sports Parkpresented by the Okeechobee Model Airplane Club, Inc.

STEM Benefits: Science:  Aviation in itself involves many different aspects of applied sciences & physics. Model Aviation provides the same challenges but on an affordable “hands on” scale. A number of our astronauts and top military pilots started in Model Aviation. In fact Robert (Hoot) Gibson; Space Shuttle Pilot and Commander started in Model Aviation and is currently the ambassador for the AMA. Okeechobee County Radio Control Sports Parkpresented by the Okeechobee Model Airplane Club, Inc.

Various UAV’s STEM Benefits Continued: Technology:  Radio Control Sports is defined by remotely operated vehicles which in current technology circles is otherwise known as UAV’s and Robotics. What once appeared as toys to the average person has now become cutting edge technology.  Many of our aircraft and cars operate on battery power. Before the recent influx of battery powered full sized vehicles, RC Sports pioneered and proved the newest technologies in Brushless Motors and Lithium Ion Power Cells, and is still a leader in their use and development. Okeechobee County Radio Control Sports Parkpresented by the Okeechobee Model Airplane Club, Inc.

STEM Benefits Continued: Engineering:  Radio Control Sports involves technical problem solving which is the quintessential definition of Engineering.  Building Model Aircraft requires a knowledge of blueprint reading as well as other engineering skills.  When the Space Shuttle was designed the return “piggy back” system was developed and tested in Model Aviation  Radio Control Car Racing involves setting up the vehicle for the current track conditions involving an understand of gear ratios and suspension affects at various settings. Okeechobee County Radio Control Sports Parkpresented by the Okeechobee Model Airplane Club, Inc.

STEM Benefits Continued: Mathematics:  Participating in Radio Control Sports is a constant exercise in applied mathematics, from determining the correct propeller to the correct gear ration to achieve the desired results.  Aircraft require precise weight and balance calculations and Model Aircraft are no different. Calculating and achieving the perfect balance is essential to flight.  Battery operation is another math heavy exercise in RC Sports. Calculations of amperage, volts and watts is critical for our control systems as well as when battery power is used as a fuel for the engines. DC amps to watts calculation formula The power P in watts (W) is equal to the currentI in amps (A), times the voltageV in volts (V): P(W) = I(A)× V(V) So watts are equal to amps times volts: watt = amp × volt or W = A × V Okeechobee County Radio Control Sports Parkpresented by the Okeechobee Model Airplane Club, Inc.

Execution can be done in phases as finances allow. However the existing facility is satisfactory to begin RC Aircraft and RC Car/Truck operating with no facilities improvement necessary. The boat pond will require some bank refinement and adjustment to allow better access to the water’s edge for launching boats Execution: 1. Dedicate this portion of the Agir-Civic Center as an RC Sports Park restricting all other activities from this area for safety and security purposes 2. Generate and sign all documentation agreed upon between operating clubs and the county 3. Install Signage as designated in Detail Section 4. Begin RC Aircraft & RC Track operations ASAP Okeechobee County Radio Control Sports Parkpresented by the Okeechobee Model Airplane Club, Inc.

Phasing will allow for immediate use of some aspects of the facility while funding can be stretched out over the time necessary to raise or secure the funds through private donations, grants and super funds for the remainder of the facility. Okeechobee County Radio Control Sports Parkpresented by the Okeechobee Model Airplane Club, Inc. Execution Sequence Acceptance Phase (first 30 days)  Necessary Meetings are held  Agreements, Leases & MOU’s are drafted and executed  Secure Insurance Certificates from parent Organizations Phase I (next 30 to 60 days)  Install signage & designate parking areas  Install temporary facilities (portoilets)  Establish & refine runway & pit area  Establish & construct track & pit area Phase II ~ (when funds raised )  Develop & complete final concept playground, and connecting sidewalks

There is an existing ditch bordering the north edge of the northern most existing parking drive lane. The drive lane is our proposed runway with a refined grass strip on the other side of the existing ditch. We propose to fill a portion of the length of the ditch as shown Okeechobee County Radio Control Sports Parkpresented by the Okeechobee Model Airplane Club, Inc. Ditch Remediation Existing Ditch Compacted Fill over Pipe Install 12” dia. perforated pipe Existing Ditch Line Ditch w/Filter Fabric & lap over top of pipe Install pipe in full bed of ¾” stone

Monument Sign Sign B Additional Signage & Rules specific to each venue shall be provided by each club Okeechobee County Radio Control Sports Parkpresented by the Okeechobee Model Airplane Club, Inc. Signage Monument Sign Sign B RC Sports Park Sign B

Joe (ctr) teaching CAP Model Aviation Class Joe (rt, ctr) receiving CAP National Commander Accommodation from FL Wing Commander Resumes: Joe Papasso  President Okeechobee Model Airplane Club  Sec/Tres Okeechobee RC Racing Club  Full Sized Aircraft Owner & Instrument Rated Pilot  AOPA (Aircraft Owners & Pilots Association) Airport Support Network volunteer assigned to Okeechobee Airport  Former Captain & Squadron Commander of the Okeechobee Civil Air Patrol Squadron  Developed the Model Airplane Program for the Civil Air Patrol used nationally by CAP & the AMA  FL Licensed Building Contractor CBC 058573 (inactive) Current Occupation ~ Real Estate Developer Joe’s Plane N8156T Okeechobee County Radio Control Sports Parkpresented by the Okeechobee Model Airplane Club, Inc.

David at Club Field winning a Fun Fly Event Resumes: David Fox  Sec/Tres Okeechobee Model Airplane Club  Member Okeechobee RC Racing Club  Experience Lifelong supporter of the Boy Scouts Past member of the Eagle Board of Review, Big Lake District Current Occupation ~ Retired David with a hand built custom creation. This aircraft represents the quintessential STEM applications of this sport Okeechobee County Radio Control Sports Parkpresented by the Okeechobee Model Airplane Club, Inc.

Greg (rt) in CAP Cessna 172 taking a CAP Cadet for his first orientation flight Resumes: Greg Gernat  Member Okeechobee Model Airplane Club  Squadron Commander Okeechobee Civil Air Patrol  Commercial Full Sized Pilot  Manatee St College (Aviation), General AA Degree  Formerly Employed by Pratt Whitney Certified in Experimental Sheet Metal Current Occupation ~ Process Server & Bondsman  Certified Locomotive Engineer (Operator)  Certified Waste Water Treatment (Operator) Greg at his best teaching our youth Greg (ctr) with CAP Model Aviation Class Okeechobee County Radio Control Sports Parkpresented by the Okeechobee Model Airplane Club, Inc.

End of Presentation On behalf of the Okeechobee Model Airplane Club, Inc & the Okeechobee RC Racing Club, Inc. we would like to thank you for your time and consideration in the development of an RC Sports Park in Okeechobee. We all look forward to working with Okeechobee County to make this a model RC Sports Park for Okeechobee to be proud of and other Cities and Counties to emulate.

Purposed Development and Operation Plan