e_sharp, Author at CheckerboardRC

Drone Swarm Takes Over Miller Meadows!

e_sharp — Thu, 21 Aug 2025 17:23:56 +0000

Drones invade Miller Meadows Flying Field!

On Thursday, July 24, 2025, Miller Meadows Flying Field became the stage for a breathtaking invasion—more than 100 drones filled the sky in perfect unison.

Chicago Aerials launched 110 drones at once, a bold test run for their upcoming night shows. Controlled by a single computer, the swarm moved autonomously, weaving shifting patterns across the heavens like a living constellation.

The first attempts were rocky—equipment glitches and GPS lock-in delays—but once airborne, the fleet lifted and landed together in an eerie, synchronized silence.

We were left stunned. Here’s hoping Chicago Aerials returns soon to light up the skies again.

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Checkerboard RC Club’s Chili Fly 2024: A Warm and Tasty Gathering

e_sharp — Sun, 12 Jan 2025 03:36:35 +0000

On November 9, 2024 the Checkerboard RC Club held its much-anticipated Chili Fly event at the club’s flying field. Despite the overcast sky, the chilly November weather did little to dampen the spirits of the members who gathered for a day of good food, great company, and plenty of flying.

The event was centered around a friendly chili cook-off, where five club members brought their trusty crock pots, each filled with their favorite chili recipe to share. The aroma of simmering chili filled the air as members excitedly sampled each entry and voted on their favorites. It was an event that perfectly combined two passions—aviation and food—into a memorable afternoon.

A Flavorful Spread
In addition to the variety of chili recipes, members brought an array of accompaniments to enhance the chili-tasting experience. There were bowls of shredded cheese, chopped onions, sour cream, crackers, and crispy tortilla chips—all the fixings needed to take each chili to the next level.

But the culinary highlights didn’t stop there! Larry, one of the club’s dedicated members, sweetened the event by bringing a stunning box of homemade cupcakes. These treats were a perfect way to round out the meal, adding a delightful sweetness after the savory chili feast.

The Chili Showdown
With so many unique chili recipes on offer, choosing a winner wasn’t easy. Each chili had its own distinctive flavor and personality, from hearty and spicy to creamy and mild. The friendly competition encouraged everyone to taste a little bit of each chili and cast their votes for the top recipe.

After much deliberation and tasting, it was Becky’s Super Bowl Chili Recipe that took home the coveted title of Best Chili. Her rich, flavorful creation impressed everyone, earning her the respect and admiration of her fellow members.

Flying High and Chili-Fueled Fun
While the chili cook-off was the heart of the event, the day wasn’t all about food. As the chili simmered and bowls were filled, club members also took to the skies with their radio-controlled aircraft. The overcast skies didn’t stop the flyers, and the field was alive with planes and drones soaring overhead. The event provided the perfect balance of aviation and socializing, with members flying their aircraft while enjoying the delicious chili and connecting with fellow enthusiasts.

Though the weather may have been a bit dreary, the warmth of the camaraderie and the delicious food created the perfect atmosphere for the Checkerboard RC Club’s annual Chili Fly. It was a wonderful way for members to come together, share their passions, and enjoy each other’s company both on the ground and in the air.

The Chili Fly was a fantastic success, and with Becky’s chili recipe reigning supreme, we can’t wait to see what next year’s event will bring. Until then, the Checkerboard RC Club continues to fly high, both in the air and at the dinner table!

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Checkerboard RC Club Auction/Raffle

e_sharp — Fri, 25 Oct 2024 03:29:09 +0000

Checkerboard RC Club Auction/Raffle

On October 17, 2024, the Checkerboard RC Club held a lively auction and raffle that brought together club members all in support of our beloved hobby. We are thrilled to announce that the event was a resounding success, raising a total of $290.00 for the club!

This achievement wouldn’t have been possible without the generous contributions of several key donors. Special thanks to Ben Gillis, Dave Smith, and Henry Lisowski for their incredible donations of RC planes and various items. Their support not only enriched our auction but also showcased the spirit of community that defines the Checkerboard RC Club.

The evening was filled with excitement as attendees bid on a variety of items, sharing stories and camaraderie along the way. It was a wonderful opportunity for club members to connect and celebrate our passion for remote-controlled aviation.

The proceeds from the auction will go directly towards enhancing club activities, maintaining our flying site, and supporting future events. We are grateful for the participation and enthusiasm shown by all who attended, making the event not only fun but profitable for our club.

Thank you to everyone who contributed, participated, and supported the Checkerboard RC Club. We look forward to more events in the future, continuing to build our community and enjoy the thrill of flying together!

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James A. Ansel

e_sharp — Thu, 24 Oct 2024 05:20:50 +0000

James A. Ansel, loving father of Ronald, Jason, Christina and Stephen; cherished grandfather of Jordan, Annemarie and Logan; dear brother of Carl, Cheryl, John and Rose.

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Richard (Rick) Paul Burnsee

e_sharp — Tue, 23 Apr 2024 04:13:42 +0000

January 13, 1960 – February 19, 2024

Rick Burnsee passed away leaving behind a legacy of passion, dedication, and love for his wife,
Norma, his son Ricky, his family and community. Rick’s life was a testament to his adventurous
spirit and his unwavering commitment to the things he loved.

Rick’s journey was marked by his deep-seated passion for automobiles and aviation. From a
young age, he was drawn to the world of mechanics, spending countless hours tinkering with
cars and motorcycles, honing his skills and developing a keen eye for detail.
His love for flying was deeply rooted in his family history; his father’s role as an aircraft
mechanic in the Air Force ignited Rick’s fascination with aviation. Determined to take to the
skies himself, Rick embarked on flying lessons and earned his pilot’s license for daytime flying, a
testament to his perseverance and love for aviation.

Beyond his personal pursuits, Rick was a pillar of his community. As a volunteer fireman at
Navistar, he selflessly dedicated his time and energy to ensuring the safety and well-being of
others, embodying the spirit of service and compassion.

One of Rick’s cherished pastimes was his membership in the Checkerboard RC Club. Here, he
found joy in flying his radio-controlled airplanes and drones at Checkerboard Field, immersing
himself in the thrill of aviation and camaraderie among fellow enthusiasts. His passion for flying
not only brought him immense joy but also created lasting memories and friendships.

Rick’s life was a tapestry woven with threads of passion, resilience, and kindness. He touched
the lives of many with his quiet nature, warm smile, generous heart, and adventurous spirit. As
we bid him farewell, we celebrate the legacy he leaves behind—a legacy of love, laughter, and a
life lived to the fullest. Rick will be deeply missed, but his spirit will continue to inspire us
always.

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William (Bill) Charles Bitautas

e_sharp — Wed, 12 Jul 2023 04:18:46 +0000

March 6, 1947 – May 13, 2023

Bill and his late wife, Renata, enjoyed 55 beautiful years together. He was dearly loved by his four children and four grandchildren. Bill proudly served our country in the Vietnam war. Following in his Dad’s footsteps, he was an active member of the Checkerboard RC Club. Bill had a fascination with building and flying radio-controlled model airplanes. He spent countless hours meticulously constructing these miniature marvels, paying attention to every detail to ensure they flew with grace and precision. He was best known for his interest and expertise in foam aircraft. The link to Bill’s “Foamie” website is on Checkerboard’s website. His contributions to Checkerboard were numerous; his writing skills, website development, photography and beyond.

Bill’s interests outside of RC aircraft were Jeeps, music and art. He loved playing his guitar.
He devoted a significant portion of his career teaching art to students from kindergarten through eighth grade in public schools. His gentle demeanor, coupled with his innate ability to nurture creativity in young minds, made him an exceptional educator. Bill encouraged his students to explore their artistic abilities and embrace their unique artistic voices. His patience and guidance fostered a lifelong love of creativity in many of his students, leaving an enduring impact on their lives.

Bill had a quiet nature about him but his kindness and willingness to share his knowledge and his enthusiasm for life with everyone he met came shining through. He will be truly missed by all who knew him.

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Tiny Whoop Master Event at Indian Lakes Resort

e_sharp — Tue, 24 Jan 2023 21:48:46 +0000

Tiny Whoop Masters Event at Indian Lakes Resort

On January 15th, Chicagoland FPV held it’s first Tinywhoop Masters Event at the currently defunct Indian Lakes Resort in Bloomingdale from 10am-6pm.

The event setup took place the day before and lasted about 4 hours. We set up not one, but TWO courses – one being a massive layout in the hotel’s atrium, weaving through the bar, two suites and a hallway, and the other course in a Speakeasy residing in a remote area of the hotel. There was even a remote-controlled fog machine as well as a huge “dive gate” hanging from a 4th story window to make races more chaotic!

On race day, participants were split into two groups; Each group raced one course for a couple of hours, then swapped courses after a pizza lunch was served.

The top few pilots participated in a final “Chase the Ace” race to 3 laps. Winners were Dan “DanZ” Zabinski in first, Connor “CCshooots” Cunningham in 2nd and Chris “Chez” Sanchez in 3rd.

We had a massive turnout of over 50 people – between racers, family and friends! It was certainly a day to remember and the biggest event we’ve ever hosted, by my memory. Some pilots donated items to a (literal) prize pool, and Josh Bishop even hand-made trophies and a “Masters Jacket” for the winners. Racers’s skills were tested by the challenging course designs, and I think they came out from the experience all the better for it.

A huge THANK YOU to Terry – the “keeper” of the property, Josh Bishop, Dave Goddard and everyone else who helped facilitate this incredible event, as well as to all who helped set up, tear down and attend! Hopefully we will be having at least one more event at Indian Lakes before it is renovated.

Brad Hofbauer

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Thank you and best of luck Brent Litzer!

e_sharp — Wed, 11 Jan 2023 17:00:02 +0000

Thank you and best of luck Brent Litzer!

Brent Litzer is moving on after a year as Checkerboard RC Club President. Thank you Brent for your leadership, hard work, enthusiasm and dedication to growing the RC hobby in the Chicago area. Here are some words from Brad Hofbauer about Brent.

“I first met Brent Litzer about a year and a half ago, at one of our 3-inch drone races. I was new to the ChicagolandFPV group, as well as the Discord server. My first impression of him was: “This guy has to be their leader”.

This group has been a second family, and if ever there were an appropriate head of that household, Brent has been it. Not only has he helped facilitate a lot of our drone meetings and locations, but he’s taken the time to get to know all of us, and that’s something that goes a long way: Brent makes people FEEL like people, and not just another member.

Brent is also a tremendous racer, but never the type to obsess over winning. I always believed that he was one of those who “got it”, and enjoyed the races no matter whether he was in first or last place (but let’s face it, he was never in last place). And aside from the playful trash talk, he’s always respected his fellow pilots and never had a bad word to say about them. It’s always been a good time with him around.

While I’ve been a Checkerboard member for a bit over a year, I’m ashamed to admit that I don’t know a whole lot about how he ran things as I haven’t been the most active member, but I’m sure he did a fantastic job. What I DO know is that he (and many other members) helped set up and finance the double dive freestyle gate at Checkerboard field, and that was a beast of a project – one that has since been enjoyed by many of us. The amount Brent pitched in was amazing and truly appreciated.

Brent has left some huge shoes to fill – he’s been such an integral part of ChicagolandFPV and will continue to be, just remotely I hope to see him again and often at our race nights, and I like to think I speak for all of us when I say thank you, Brent, for all you have done, and best of luck to you in your new habitat. I hope the drone guys out there feel as fortunate to know you as we’ve felt. We’ll miss your sense of humor, your unattainable lap times, and your massive 10-incher flailing in the wind (lol). Drop by anytime you’re in town!”

Brad “JinxFPV” Hofbauer

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Checkerboard RC Club announces 2023 Officers!

e_sharp — Mon, 28 Nov 2022 23:38:35 +0000

(left to right) Chris Martin – Safety Officer Edward Wilkerson-Vice President Paul Park-President

Brian Huckstep-Treasurer/Secretary

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Checkerboard 50th Anniversary Jubilee!

e_sharp — Fri, 11 Nov 2022 04:05:19 +0000

On October 1, 2022 Checkerboard RC Club celebrated its 50th Anniversary, a milestone not often attained. The purpose of the celebration was not only to acknowledge this momentous occasion but also to give thanks to the thousands of members, families and friends who helped grow the organization from a small group of radio control flying enthusiasts to one of the preeminent RC Clubs in the country.

Checkerboard was founded in 1972 by the late Harold (Hal) Parenti, the late Charlie Bauer, the late Paul Harvey (the radio broadcaster), Ray Carlson, and Vladimir Holis to name a few. Vladimir was able to attend and made the celebration that much more meaningful. These gentlemen were not only accomplished RC pilots but also aeronautics engineers who conceived, designed and built model planes of all shapes and sizes.

The event started off with Brent Litzer, president, giving a history of the Checkerboard club. Gary Parenti, Hal’s son, then talked about his experiences and memories of the club dating back to 1972 when he was only 12 years old and what the club has meant to him.

A beautiful blue sky was the perfect setting for the attendees to be treated to an air show, second to none. The skilled Checkerboard pilots demonstrated RC flying; a gas powered plane streaming smoke across the sky, a plane doing acrobatic maneuvers and flying inverted low to the ground, a 10” drone racing above the field with a streamer trailing behind it, a thrilling helicopter 3D flight and drones flying through the race course among other RC demonstrations. There was even an air tunnel constructed and demonstrated. Checkerboard might be the only RC club in the country that has one.

Following the air show, the grill was lit and burgers and hot dogs were served with side dishes, cookies and cake. To top off the day, raffle tickets were given to the 90+ attendees and the raffle began. The prizes ranged from cash, to gift cards to area restaurants, to Bears apparel and several RC related prizes.

It was a grand occasion. Checkerboard has much to be proud of and it was evident by the number of members, families and friends that came out to celebrate with us.

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