AMA NEWS
PR Roundup
Geoffrey Styles Director of Public Relations
It is encouraging to see our sport mentioned in national publications; it shows others recognize the value of model aviation.
- Reader's Digest ran a story titled "Kids Who Beat the Odds" about youngsters resisting drug problems. One boy, David, found refuge in an attic full of model planes he built. His hobby provided an avenue of escape, reliable skills, and something to look forward to—an example of model aviation as a stabilizing influence.
- Congressman Peter Kostmayer (D–Pennsylvania) has staff working with AMA to handle requests for the new Sky School booklet (see Model Aviation, August 1989, p. 97). He is especially interested in helping kids in drug rehabilitation programs; many booklets will go to adults assisting these youngsters.
- Boys' Life (October 1989) published a favorable story after Special Features Editor Jeff Csatari attended the 1989 Nats in Tri-Cities. If you receive invitations to work with Scouts or Cubs locally, please accept them—these programs reflect well on the sport and AMA.
Hall of Fame Awards — 1989
Geoffrey Styles Director of Public Relations
Five distinguished modelers were selected for induction into the AMA Hall of Fame. Selection is based on a long record of significant contributions to the sport.
- Joseph Bilgri (AMA 4393, Oroville, CA)
An active modeler since the 1930s, Joe competed extensively—from local contests to Junior Birdmen events and powered aircraft—appearing at nearly every Nats from the post‑WWII era into the 1960s. He qualified for FAI teams and represented the U.S. many times between 1952 and 1973. As a designer and experimenter, he published numerous articles (Wakefields, Mulvihills, Nordic Gliders, etc.) in Model Airplane News, Air Trails, Flying Models, and foreign magazines. Several of his designs are still flown competitively. He managed FAI indoor teams (England, 1962; Romania, 1970), served as Contest Director for decades, and was Co‑Contest Director at the 1954 Free Flight World Championships. His contributions span over 50 years.
- W. L. (Woody) Blanchard (AMA 8073, Hampton, VA)
Known widely along the East Coast, Woody is an innovator, writer, leader, and competitor. His competitive record includes AMA Open National Champion (1953) and multiple Grand National Championships (1954, 1955, 1956, 1958, 1961). He has held records and served on FAI teams. Woody has designed kits for manufacturers (Payee, International, Paamite, Aeronca) and contributed experimental developments—leading‑edge cambering flaps, flaperons, and airfoil research for RC sailplanes. He worked on an Ultra‑Deep‑Stall research project under contract to NASA (1977–1980) and has been active in club and national leadership roles.
- Frank Garcher (AMA 302, Hobart, IN)
Frank carried a large share of the credit for establishing the National Center for Aeromodeling. Through the Hobby Industry Association (HIA), he raised more than $50,000 toward construction of a new AMA headquarters. A life member, he chaired the HIA Aeronautics Division and is president of Midwest Products Co., known for fine kits that help newcomers. Frank’s fundraising, industry leadership, and good humor have been invaluable to model aviation.
- Earl F. Stahl (AMA 280564, Yorktown, VA)
Born in 1918, Earl has been active in model aviation since the 1930s, gaining recognition at national championships in the late 1930s and 1940s. A talented designer of rubber‑powered Free Flight Scale models, Earl produced more than 38 documented designs spanning Free Flight Scale, Gliders, and Gas models. While on the NACA staff at Langley, he worked in model and wind tunnel design and dynamic testing. His Skua design was selected by British company Blackburn as the official model for their 50th anniversary international contest.
- Cliff Weirick (AMA 16, Oceanside, CA)
An AMA Past President (1968–1969), Cliff has a long history in full‑scale and model aviation dating to his first model in 1933. He built and flew CL and RC models while serving in the U.S. Navy, constructed a half‑scale F4U‑1 Corsair that he flew across the U.S., and became a top RC Pattern competitor (notably in 1962–1965), qualifying for U.S. RC Aerobatics Teams (1965, 1967). Cliff has contributed to Pylon Racing rules and has worked in industry roles that kept him deeply connected to the hobby. He remains active in trade shows and mentoring newcomers.
AMA thanks these men for their many contributions to model aviation.
SOUND & MODEL AERONAUTICS
Howard Crispin, Jr.
Propeller articles: We received letters about the first two propeller articles—some comments are justified. Certain information and tables were lost in the finished text; corrections will be made in subsequent installments. Apologies for any misunderstanding.
A key technical point: when discussing total sound pressure level (SPL) reductions, readers must consider whether sources are correlated. David Heathcoat, coauthor of the propeller study, explains:
- Many acoustics references state that combining two uncorrelated noise sources of equal SPL increases total SPL by 3 dB (and removing one reduces total SPL by 3 dB).
- However, engine and propeller noises are correlated—the engine cycle timing and propeller rotation are coupled, and the sources are close together—so they may be considered coherent and in‑phase. Combining two equal, coherent, in‑phase sounds increases total SPL by 6 dB. Eliminating one such component therefore reduces the total by up to 6 dB. For more on correlation, coherence, and phase see standard acoustics texts (e.g., Fundamentals of Acoustics by Kinsler and Frey).
Academy publication: Planning has begun for a book on noise and model aircraft aimed at individuals, clubs, and others—similar in scope and price to Getting and Keeping Flying Sites. Contents will include basics of sound generation and measurement, perceived annoyance and ordinances, sound transmission from flying sites, and practical techniques (engine mounting, muffling, propeller choices) with drawings and photographs.
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR'S VIEW FROM HQ
John Worth AMA Executive Director 1810 Samuel Morse Dr., Reston, VA 22090
Frank Ehling honored: Frank Ehling received the National Aeronautic Association's Elder Statesman of Aviation recognition for 1989—the only aeromodeler among the honorees and the second aeromodeler ever so recognized. Born in 1912, Frank served as AMA Technical Director until retiring in 1982, is an AMA Hall of Famer, and has designed many models (notably the Delta Dart/AMA Cub, whose plans he donated to the hobby industry).
New title: As of February 1, 1990, I have the title Executive Director Emeritus. I will no longer be responsible for daily HQ operations but will continue to work on projects that remain.
Video archive project: AMA is filming and videotaping aeromodeling pioneers—Carl Goldberg, Charles Hampson Grant, Frank and John Zalc, Leon Shulman, Dick Sherman, and many others. Edited tapes are being produced (one called The Pioneers is available); more will form a video library of our heritage with copies for sale.
Lots of juniors: Contrary to some beliefs, our youth membership has grown dramatically. Youth membership quadrupled from about 4,000 in 1965 to 16,686 in 1989. Adult membership has dominated historically, and since the 1950s growth has been RC‑dominated. Nevertheless, the youth contingent is larger and has grown steadily.
An uncertain future...
The collapse of the Berlin Wall and political changes in Eastern Europe are creating uncertainty for aeromodeling in those countries—many activities there have been government subsidized. Economic upheaval threatens national programs and FAI funding; Romania was suspended from FAI for nonpayment of dues, and its 1990 Indoor World Championships were removed from the calendar. While losing government dependence may be healthier long term, the short‑term situation poses challenges for international competitions and travel.
AMA NEWS — Administration & Miscellany
Insurance certificates: The Council decided to charge $10 for dated insurance certificates used for short‑term activities (e.g., mail shows). Regular club certificate fees were not changed. This policy went into effect January 1, 1990.
Election results: District I vote totals and the presidential vote were reported; turnout for the presidential race (about 14,990 votes) was low relative to total membership (over 150,000).
The Flight of the Mustang: A school assignment from Michelle Boulais (age 12) describing the P‑51 Mustang earned a superb mark—an example of youth interest in aviation.
Seasonal note: Best wishes for the holidays and thoughts of spring flying.
DISTRICT II REPORT
John Byrne District II Vice‑President 36‑29 213 Street, Bayside, NY 11361 (718) 225‑8319
- Frank Ehling recognition: The NAA article honoring Frank Ehling was praised as well deserved.
- Sanctioned event statistics (Jan 1–Oct 6, 1989):
- Free Flight: 1,503
- RC Aerobatics: 1,891
- RC Soaring: 1,938
- RC Pylon: 986
- Control Line: 888
- Scale: 699
- Indoor: 450
- RC Helicopter: 255
Club highlights:
- LI Silent Flyers (AMA 1276), Babylon, NY: Paul Bell inducted into the Aero Honor Society for Newsletter Editors; shared with publisher Stan Gron.
- Radio Control Aircraftmen of Western New York (AMA 925): Celebrating 25 years with a mall show/static contest/auction combination on March 25, 1990.
- Monmouth Model Airplane Club (AMA 4244): Celebrated 25th anniversary in 1989; participated in joint flying with Holmdel Radio Control Models Club.
- Edison Recreation Model Airplane Club: Held its 13th Annual Fall Control Line Contest (Sept 10, 1989); events ranged from Beginner to Expert and Old‑Time Stunt.
Events and announcements:
- Eastern Free Flight Conference (East Coast Free Flight Champs): June 30–July 1, 1990, at Galeville Army Airfield near Newburgh, NY. Over 30 events combining AMA, FAC, and SAM events; CD Rich Gorman.
- WRAM Show (Westchester): Invitations issued internationally; U.S.S.R. Aero Club planned participation in future shows.
District II named Alpha Squadron 101 as Club of the Month for public show activity and obtaining flying privileges at Willow Grove Naval Air Station.
PR — Public Relations (continued)
- Mall shows: A valuable method to improve public image and attract members. AMA can provide handouts. Combine mall shows with programs for parks departments to make a stronger case for flying sites.
- Example: Marguerite Garigulo (Flanders, NJ) reports successful mall shows with static displays, videotapes, donated prizes, and building demonstrations; the club plans a Delta Dart Day for Boy Scouts.
- Parks relations: Park superintendents generally praise AMA clubs as responsible users. Noise is a common concern—clubs should adopt muffler rules and use good mufflers. Consider participating in a Take Pride In America cleanup to strengthen community ties.
- Parks/Recreation Newsletter: AMA will publish a quarterly newsletter for park professionals—send stories and park cooperation examples to Bill Baker. Contact AMA at 1‑703‑435‑0750 for details.
- Oregon airports: The state is offering 25 airports for transfer due to budget constraints; some are near small towns. If you have info, pass it on.
DISTRICT V REPORT
Jim McNeill District V Vice‑President 617 South 20 Avenue, Birmingham, AL 35205
- A thank‑you to members who voted; the district includes seven states and Puerto Rico.
- Request: Send pictures of yourself or family with models for possible publication.
- Promise of a full report next month.
Associate Vice Presidents, Frequency Coordinator, and other contacts were listed in the original report.
DISTRICT VI REPORT
Jim Sears District VI Vice‑President P.O. Box 308, Burgin, KY 40310
- Visited Green River R/C Club (Campbellsville, KY) for a fly/static display; winds limited flying but turnout was good. The club uses state land while working to secure a permanent site.
- Attended Nats planning session in Lawrenceville; site is usable with good motel and restaurant availability.
- Shared photos and reports from Radio Signal Modelers Club (hosting guests from China) and Sugar Creek R/C Club (new field, fun fly, donation of a Dragonfly model to local farmers who allow field use).
- Kansas City Radio Control Club received an Award of Service for 37 years of service.
Upcoming: Executive Council meeting in Los Angeles, Frequency Committee meeting in Orlando, and Association of Midwestern Radio Control Clubs meeting.
AMA NEWS — Helicopters & Shows
- Heli fly‑in in Greenville, PA: Despite Hurricane Hugo effects, turnout was strong.
- IRCHA meeting (Indiana): Expected to strengthen helicopter special interest within AMA and assist with Helicopter competition at the Nats.
- Greater Cincinnati Radio Control Club produced a two‑day flying circus introducing modeling to about 7,000 spectators; required 45 pilots and over 100 models. Contact Joe Amato (1‑513‑742‑0767) for information on organizing similar events.
- Alpha Squadron 101: Noted for frequent performances and securing limited use of Willow Grove Naval Air Station; planning a PSA pattern meet during Memorial Day weekend.
TECHNICAL & PUBLICATIONS
- Soar Tech: A comprehensive compendium of soaring airfoils (about 400 pages, including L/D charts and text) is available from Hark (1504 Horseshoe Circle, Virginia Beach, VA 23451) for $15. Contributions include work by Michael Selig and wind tunnel section construction by District IV members.
AMA HQ SERVICES STAFF
- Executive Director: John Worth
- Vice Executive Director: Vince Mankowski
- Executive Coordinator: Joyce Hager
- Administrative Services Director: Robert Lojsavage
- Technical Director: Bob Underwood
- Controller: Lynne Collins
- Competition Services Director: Micheline Madison
- Special Services Director: Dan Maroney
- Membership Director: Mike Woodlock
- Public Relations Director: Geoff Styles
- Special Projects Director: Doug Pratt
- Publications Director: Carl R. Wheeler
- Nats General Manager: Vince Mankowski
- Museum Curator: Hurst Bowers
- General Counsel: Jeremiah Courtney
Academy of Model Aeronautics 1810 Samuel Morse Dr., Reston, VA 22090 World's Largest Sport Aviation Organization
Transcribed from original scans by AI. Minor OCR errors may remain.
