Tom Truax / 6/21/03 (Solstice)

I have read the discussion to date.  I think the artwork is good.  As the committee chair prefers, I think we can decide on size after agreeing on a location.  It appears the possible locations include:

1. The location where Bruce impacted and died
2. The location where he last launched from (Walt's Point)
3. The point that bears his name (Bruce's Point)
4. The most prominent peak on the Ojai range as seen from the Ojai Valley (Chief's Peak)
5. At launch below Chief's Peak

All have pro and con.  Since there is no current interest expressed in the first two options, I won't discuss them.

Option 3 (Bruce's Point) would be my preference

• Pro
  • This point already bears his name
  • You can see it framed between the trees in his front yard from his house
  • A design that incorporates a worthy flag / streamer
    • would be visible from his house, from town and from the air
    • is functional
      • Bruce was functional
  • Less prone to vandalism
• Con
  • It would require a deliberate pilgrimage to view the plaque
  • Installation would be more difficult and likely cost more
  • It may be more prone to damage by fire
• Details
  • I would propose using Benson's artwork on a plaque as he proposes
  • Scout the site to select a location on a rock face on the top of the point
  • Clear the brush about 10 on all sides to reduce heating from fire
  • Incorporate a post base for a changeable 15' flexible / UV resistant flag pole to carry a 7' streamer
  • Pre fabricate and hike out to install.  If material is too heavy to hike, then we could drop it via tandem glider delivery
  • Bi-annual maintenance could be viewed as either pro or con.

Option 4 is good also, but he would be sharing the peak with other memorials.  It's an easy 10 minute hike up a good trail with some mild rock climbing at the top.  I don't think the suggestion that it may be hard to get to is valid.

Option 5 is also appropriate, but I prefer option 3 & 4.  Option 5 is probably the easiest to implement and view the plaque.

Although I have my opinion, I can support whatever is chosen.  I would lobby for option 3 and am willing to participate in the work party.