First Annual Bill Spadafora Memorial Launch

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Published: Wednesday, 03 June 2015 15:38

Written by Kenn Blade

On 30 May 2015 CMASS held its First Annual Bill Spadafora Memorial Launch (FABSML) as part of our joint launch with the Maine Missile Math & Science Club (MMMSC) in Berwick, ME. The joint launch had been on the schedule from the beginning of the season and it was decided that Bill would have wanted us to continue with our scheduled launches despite his death.

The weather was sunny and hot with just a little more wind than we would have liked. We set up the CMASS low/mid-power pads in the traditional circle and three high-power pads 300-feet down the road. We started the day with a short eulogy to Bill and a moment of silence. Both clubs were well represented and there were very few wind related problems. Many flights were dedicated to Bill and his contributions to both clubs and the hobby in general. John Buscaglia flew a rocket with the card from Bill’s funeral service in the payload section. The payload section became detached from the booster and drifted into an area just off the field; John couldn’t find it but, eventually, someone was guided to it so it was recovered.

Fliskits was on the field flying a couple of prototypes. AMW/ProX was there in full force (Robert, Gloria and Jason) and Gloria acted as food vendor in addition to supplying lots of other rocket needs. There were a total of 87 flights ranging from A to K-impulse with some first-timers and many well-seasoned flyers. There were some Level Certifications and NARTREK qualifying flights. All in all, a day Bill would have appreciated.

The post-launch debriefing was held at the Thistle Pig with many iced teas, entrees and especially desserts ordered to the memory of Bill. A day full of emotions but a step forward for the club as we continue the work that has been laid out for us.

Jim Flis posted his pictures on his website.

If you have some pictures from the day, please post them in our gallery.