There has been a relaxed atmosphere to gatherings at Buttonwillow in the past regarding after-hours activities. That has changed, effective immediately, and it directly impacts these specific items:
1) Alcohol for human consumption
2) Firearms
3) Fireworks

A recent gathering at Buttonwillow/Elk Hills Airport (the 'Willow), home field to the BARKS club, resulted in a complaint being filed with the Kern County Department of Airports regarding these items being present and/or used at the gathering - all violations of KCDoA rules and our use agreement. It was impossible to deny #1, as some excellent pictures were posted here on RCU, and a link to such was in the complaint. There were also numerous bottlerocket carcasses on the field. KCDoA has made it abundantly clear that any future violations could cost us the field.

I understand completely the many reasons, rationalizations, and excuses involved in this behavior - but it stops NOW. It's not worth losing a great flying site over, and you can be certain that we will be closely watched during this event. Some of those observers will be in uniform, others won't.

Perhaps http://www.bakersfieldrvresort.com/ offers a better location for the cocktail partiers - they even have a clubhouse with a full kitchen available - just a thought.

I absolutely hate having to be the heavy here - but if I don't let you know, I'm not executing the duties of my office. Flame suit on - go for it!

Trent Combs
President, BARKS