AMA Building Fund Update II
Funding and dues
On a few occasions AMA has had to assure those making contributions to the Building Fund that their donated money will be used entirely for the new building. The new building project is being funded by its own special Building Fund drive. None of the projected operating AMA budget (money that comes from membership dues) is marked for the building project.
The Academy of Model Aeronautics supplies services to its members. These services are self-supporting through the payment of membership dues. Membership dues cannot, therefore, be used on projects not in line with their purpose. The recent dues increase is an adjustment in required income to meet the increased costs of providing those services. No dues money, no matter what the dues rates, goes into the AMA Building Fund.
Once the building is completed and AMA moves in, the portion of the operating budget that has been used to pay rent will be applied to making the payments on the building.
Use of Building Fund
In the meantime, all Building Fund money must be applied to the new building project, because there simply is no other source of money available to start construction. This whole project must survive on contributions and donations made by the Academy's friends and members.
Progress and fundraising goals
The spirit and enthusiasm of modelers' response to the Building Fund drive has been outstanding. The goal of $160,000—which is only about $2 per member—seems attainable. Meeting this goal will enable the groundbreaking of aeromodeling's new home to happen. With pride it can be announced that 25% of that goal has been achieved since the fund drive was launched this past spring.
To stay on schedule we need to have 50% of the money raised by January and our total goal of $160,000 reached by the spring of 1982.
How members can help
To stay on schedule and make this long-time dream a reality, the Academy will need the help of all its members.
- On the membership renewal forms all AMA members receive, there is a place where donations to the Building Fund can be indicated.
- There is a box for $1 and a box to show "other" donation amounts.
- This is an excellent opportunity to show your support for the project.
A permanent economical headquarters location, a visitors' center and the national museum of aeromodeling can all become a reality with just a little help from each of us.
Land and design status
The land owned by AMA is still in its natural state, not yet cleared, but it is AMA's land.
The building has not yet reached the final stages on paper. However, the concept of the structure has been determined and the design drawings are now being completed.
Design concept and tour
By using the sketch shown and a little imagination, we can take a short tour of this soon-to-be-real home for aeromodeling.
We approach the building and it seems to spring from the earth because the brick sides are the same hue as the natural earth of the area. The building is essentially three rectangular units arranged in a triangle. The main entry is in a single-floor structure while the other two rectangular units are two-story units, as is the triangular center area.
Entering the complex at the place indicated by the arrow on the sketch, we pass through double doors to the entry. Standing in the entry, we notice tongue-and-groove planking and open wood beam construction that make the experience enjoyable for anyone familiar with similar construction techniques.
The portion of the building to our left, indicated by the letter "A," is occupied by the accounting department. On our right, Area "B," contains the executive offices and serves as the visitors' and conference center. Not only is there a place to see the future of AMA described in charts, plans, and handout material, but visitors can also record their own thoughts here—this is the room where AMA's Executive Council meets.
Our eyes go down the entry lined with plaques and scrolls recording proudly all those who made the dream a reality. Individuals, hobby industry companies, and AMA clubs—all who helped—are recorded here in a place of honor. The entryway gives a feeling of togetherness.
Now past the entry and on the walkway, the cathedral ceiling of the display area and the array of models and displays is a sight the modeler cannot get enough of. Models are hung from the ceiling at various heights over a floor display of engines and collections.
While still on the walkway we see that the lower levels of the two-story units D and E each open onto the museum floor. We can also look into the upper levels as they open to the museum. The protective guard railing on the second floor does not interfere with the effect.
Unit functions
- Unit D:
- Upstairs: general offices and the offices for Model Aviation magazine.
- Downstairs: club and membership services areas.
- Unit E:
- Shipping and receiving, storage, and additional service areas.
- Downstairs: a portion of the museum displays.
Conclusion
All we have done is take an imaginary walk into aeromodeling's new home. We only went through the entrance and to the walkway, but the impression is one that will hopefully fill you with pride. This can be—this need not remain a dream.
All it takes is a little help from each of us. Support the Building Fund.
Vince Mankowski Assistant Executive Director
Transcribed from original scans by AI. Minor OCR errors may remain.
