History

"Sodbusters" was formed during the winter of 1982 /1983. The original name was "Stillwater Flyers".

The founders had flying sites near highway 36 and Manning Avenue on a sod fields owned by Anderson, south of the Stillwater Motors, Herberger’s and where the Stillwater High School is located.

During the fall of 1981 Bruce Staberg along with Mark D’Aloia presented Mr. Anderson with a Christmas card with about $120 cash from a group donation collection and asking Mr. Anderson about designating his sod fields as a AMA flying site. He seemed agreeable and soon after Jim Kriesel filed the papers for the club and his daughter began working on getting shirts and jackets for the club proceeding with the club logo.

Development forced the move in 1987 to a site in West Lakeland Township directly across from the location the sod farm at Manning and I-94. This site “Medved Field” named after Don Medved, an early member of the club. Don had been an early driving force in the club and as a result of his contributions to the club efforts, the club named the Sodbuster field “Medved Field” in his honor.

Over the years, the club has provided a much needed civic service to our communities from lecturing at local schools, scout activities (both boy and girl), various law enforcement programs and give assistance to the Civil Air Patrol training programs.

Members operate a variety of gas engine, electric powered and glider type radio control airplanes. Each type presents its own challenge with size and design of the airplane dictating the flying skill needed.

The club maintains a flying site at Lynch Lake in Washington County.

Thanks to Bruce Staberg for sharing his memories with us.