Why Bother With Local PR?
Geoffrey Styles
Director of Public Relations
For some people, building and flying miniature aircraft is the sum total of this sport. They are not too happy with anything that detracts from their personal enjoyment of model aviation. After all, this is a very personal pastime and one that you can enjoy all alone, if you choose.
But wait a moment! Americans are a social bunch and love associations. In fact, the U.S.A. has more associations than any other country. We love to join. We love to receive the benefits of friendly admiration and support from our peers. Whether it is the American Legion, the Rotary Club, the Union Local, or the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR), most of us enjoy and need the social interaction and plaudits we get from belonging. Yes, the fun and personal gain from socializing with people who have similar interests can add a lot to your life.
So what about AMA clubs that are complete unto themselves? Are they missing something? Perhaps you'd tell me "No." The truth could be that by giving and getting, clubs benefit. Over the past several months we have seen and heard many AMA‑chartered clubs very involved in their communities with a variety of programs. These programs use several different approaches, but all have one thing in common — they are gaining local recognition and support. So when the time comes that they need a flying site or some other privilege, you can bet they will have their requests received with sympathy and understanding. It is as true today as it was yesterday: you have to have a presence in your community if you expect favorable recognition and help when you need it.
Let's take a quick look. Joint Military RC Fliers (JMRCF), San Diego, CA. Several years ago the club actually adopted a local school. Recently JMRCF adopted its second school, Grapevine Elementary School, Vista, CA. Frank Smith, past president of the club, has been the key man in heading and maintaining this program. With Cliff Weirick, former AMA President, Frank spent...
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Transcribed from original scans by AI. Minor OCR errors may remain.
