Since the beginning of this magazine, I get several phone calls a month and emails asking the question, “Why doesn’t Tripoli adopt ER as their offical publication?” To cut down the number of times I answer this question, I’ve decided to write something here on the subject along with a bit of history and background.

In 2000, ER came out with its first issue. Mid 2000 I was contacted by NAR and asked if I’d like the publication to appear on their official membership forms as an alternative magazine subscription. I accepted this offer on the condition that Tripoli be offered the same opportunity (as not to play favorites). NAR had no problems with this and in mid 2000 I made my first proposal to Tripoli: That ER be offered as an alternative publication where TRA members would get a 5% discount on the subscription price if they joined TRA along with subscribing.

At the time HPR was official publication for Tripoli, Bruce Kelly the president, and all Tripoli membership records were processed in the Kelly home offices. My offer was accepted by NAR but rejected by Tripoli on the grounds it was too taxing on the staff in the Kelly home to process the orders. I have always been friends with Bruce and totally respect his point of view on this and most likely would have similar views in his situation.

In June of 2003 I received a call from Dick Embry, president of Tripoli asking if I would be interested in ER becoming the official magazine for Tripoli. A vote was to take place on the subject at LDRS 23. At his request, I gave a presentation at LDRS 23. A vote was taken and my proposal voted down. The reason given at the time was Tripoli was not able to pay HPR to get out of its current contract. Later I was told several board members did not feel the content of ER was a good match for Tripoli.

In December of 2005 I received an email from Bob Schoner, Secretary of Tripoli, announcing that HPR was no longer official Tripoli publication and that Tripoli was accepting proposals. A three page letter was included outlining what Tripoli was seeking for it’s official publication. After careful review I concluded that ER could never meet those needs without serious restructuring.

As a result I proposed Rocketeer Media create a new publication which could meet all the needs outlined in the letter which would be published six times a year. My proposal was not accepted and no explanation given other than another proposal was more suitable for Tripoli’s needs. I feel good about Tripoli’s decision as they ultimately need to look out for what is best for its own membership. I have high hopes the new Tripoli publication will meet Tripoli’s needs!

-- Editor’s Comments

Download Extreme Rocketry Magazine, March 2006

PDF format, 3MB, 48 Pages.

Earl Cagle Jr. Interview
By Richard Burney

Earl Cagle Jr., through his company Point 39 Productions, has produced videos since 1991 chronicling LDRS, Balls, and several large projects. Though he is mainly known for his video production efforts, Earl’s interest in model rocketry and space exploration goes back to childhood. Earl has also been involved with several Apollo 11 commemorative launches at the Kennedy Space Center.

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