AMA News

AMA News

SOUND & MODEL AERONAUTICS

Howard Crispin, Jr.

Toledo: The big show at Toledo is a great place to see the very latest in commercial development for our sport. Most people go there to see the latest aircraft designs and kits. I enjoy that too, but in recent years my primary interest has been seeing what is being done to make our sport quieter.

We still have a long way to go to meet the needs of fliers who operate in environments where noise risks the loss of flying sites. This year was not a disappointment, although engine manufacturers, by and large, have done very little to provide an adequate muffler as standard equipment. There are exceptions, which is perhaps good for individual small manufacturers of aftermarket mufflers and equipment. This is not necessarily ideal for the modeler: the cost of many aftermarket devices is high, a natural result of low-volume production. The need to operate quietly leaves few options. It is gratifying that there are individuals making real improvements.

One area needing much work is the big-engine environment. We have seen progress with aftermarket solutions for engines up to 1.8 cu. in., such as the SuperTiger 3000. For the 1.2-cu.-in. four-stroke and the larger gas engines, it has been harder.

Eric Derns of Derns RC Products (1602 White Dove Drive, Winter Springs, FL 32708) has long been involved with large models. He and Don Lowe often confer on equipment design and fly systems together. Eric imports the 3W engine, some mufflers, and other equipment. He has worked on vibration isolation for large engines and showed his latest muffler assembly at Toledo.

This new assembly for large engines is a welded, circular unit with sufficient depth to provide the needed muffler volume. The unit is baffled and the adapter to the engine exhaust port is integral. A multi-point vibration isolation system is built into the muffler, providing a compact unit that quiets exhaust and mounts without other attachments. One advantage is no hardware protrudes outside the engine dimensions, simplifying cowling installations on tight scale projects. Photos showed the unit mounted on an O.S. 3500 and a 3W engine. Also visible was a new carburetor Eric developed for big engines; it requires tank pressure similar to many glow installations.

A tuned-pipe assembly for the 1.2 four-stroke engine was introduced by Advanced Aero Products (Rt. 1, Box 365-C, Santa Ana, TX 75003). The unit is designed to increase performance and provide a very quiet exhaust for this size engine—important as these engines grow more powerful.

Ducted-fan models also need quieter operation. Jim Bisson (48 Kennaley Crescent, Scarborough, Ontario M1V 1L7, Canada) has worked with mufflers for many years and recently examined ducted-fan models. Working with Bob Parkinson, he produced a muffler that mounts directly to the rear exhaust port on a ducted-fan engine, requiring no pipe adapter. It is reported to run into the mid-90 dB range and does not appear to lose power—and possibly gains some.

An interesting letter from Douglas Wall (Forrest City, AR) described vibration isolation mounts developed by his father and tested on larger engines. The mounts (available for engines up through the A&M .42) are rugged, easy to install, and tested to the equivalent of 100 pounds thrust. Contact J & L Enterprises, P.O. Box 1482, Forrest City, AR 72335 for details.

We still have more to do on mufflers and vibration isolation. It’s encouraging that individuals and small companies are contributing meaningful improvements.

PR ROUNDUP

Geoffrey Styles, Director of Marketing

AMA belongs to several national organizations whose affiliations further the interests of model aviation and the needs of our members.

• Membership in the American Recreation Coalition has helped AMA meet key officials in the Department of the Interior (DOI). Through those contacts we became involved in the "Take Pride In America" program sponsored by DOI. In 1990 the AMA-chartered Farragut Flyers of Idaho won a national award, shining a spotlight on aeromodelers. Because many AMA clubs fly on federal park lands, keeping an open door with federal departments is extremely important.

• Through membership in the National Recreation and Park Association we have promoted the interests of clubs that fly on community property. We have done much spadework with parks officials nationwide on behalf of clubs seeking flying privileges on public land.

• The National Association of State Aviation Officials (NASAO), based in Silver Spring, Maryland, represents state government aviation service agencies in the 50 states as well as aviation departments in Puerto Rico and Guam. Its members are aeronautics commissions and departments created under state law to foster, develop, and regulate aviation locally and at the state level. NASAO's primary goals are to foster cooperation and mutual aid among the states and between federal and local governments in developing state and national air transportation systems responsive to regional, state, and national needs, and to promote adequate aviation services and facilities for the public.

We at AMA headquarters do a lot of lobbying to improve perception and understanding among influential people. It would bolster our efforts if members do some of that work locally.

• For example, the latest NASAO newsletter lists all members of the House and Senate aviation subcommittees (102nd Congress). It would be a significant PR coup if clubs in each district sent letters to their Senator and Congressman describing what the club does to encourage aviation interest. Members of Congress listen to constituents; a word from a voter gets attention.

• If you have a youth program, describe your methods and purpose. Model aviation is an excellent alternative to drugs and delinquency and produces skilled, motivated, and capable people. We need to get that message out.

• Model aviators must be involved in the political process. We need larger tracts of land and are vulnerable to rules, zoning regulations, and legislation by officials who may not appreciate model aviation. Many clubs have lost flying sites because neighbors complained about noise or safety. It is better to preserve the field you have by doing local politicking than to have to replace it.

Suggested content for a letter to elected officials:

• How many modelers are in your area (state/county/city/town/village)
• What the club does and why
• Where you fly
• Occupations represented by members
• Economic impact of model aviation
• Technical implications nationwide
• Youth programs your club supports

Congressional aviation subcommittee members (House listing first):

• James Oberstar (MN), Chairman
• Henry Nowak (NY)
• Ron de Lugo (USVI)
• Joe Kolter (PA)
• William Lipinski (IL)
• James A. Traficant (OH)
• Peter DeFazio (OR)
• Bob Clement (TN)
• Jerry Costello (IL)
• Greg Laughlin (TX)
• George Sangmeister (IL)
• Dick Swett (NH)
• Barbara-Rose Collins (MI)
• Bud Shuster (PA)
• Thomas E. Petri (WI)
• James Inhofe (OK)
• John Duncan (TN)
• Christopher Cox (CA)
• David Hobson (OH)
• Norman Mineta (CA)
• Nick Joe Rahall (WV)
• Gus Savage (IL)
• Tim Valentine (NC)
• Peter V. Visclosky (IN)
• John Lewis (GA)
• James Hayes (LA)
• Lewis Payne (VA)
• Mike Parker (MS)
• Pete Geren (TX)
• Glenn Poshard (IL)
• Joan Kelly Horn (MO)
• John Paul Hammerschmidt (AR)
• William Clinger (PA)
• Sherwood Boehlert (NY)
• Cass Ballenger (NC)
• Mel Hancock (MO)
• Susan Molinari (NY)
• Dick Nichols (KS)

Senators:

• Wendell Ford (KY), Chairman
• James Exon (NE)
• John Kerry (MA)
• Bob Kasten (WI)
• Slade Gorton (WA)
• Daniel K. Inouye (HI)
• Lloyd Bentsen (TX)
• Ted Stevens (AK)
• John McCain (AZ)

We have handouts available from AMA Headquarters to support your statements. Contact Headquarters for materials and send letters either to local offices or to Washington, D.C.

Examples of local action:

• Hemet Model Masters (California) contracted a long-term land lease with the City of Hemet and issued an appeal to raise $60,000 to cover lease costs and improvements. Working drawings have been prepared and the club made a firm commitment to proceed. In Southern California flying sites are scarce; industry should recognize that no flying fields mean no fliers and fewer product sales. Manufacturers and other commercial interests should support efforts to locate, secure, and retain flying fields.

• Two clubs have adopted stretches of highway near their flying field and regularly remove trash. This civic activity presents a positive image to city and county officials and can help protect the field.

Please don’t just talk about public relations—do it.

SYNOPSIS — EXECUTIVE COUNCIL MEETING APRIL 20, 1991

Attendance

The following were in attendance:

• Don Lowe, President (Altamonte Springs, FL)
• Dave Brown, Executive Vice President (Hamilton, OH)
• Don Kraft, VP District I (Duxbury, MA)
• John Byrne, VP-II (Bayside, NY)
• Bob Brown, VP-III (Bradford, PA)
• Howard Crisman, VP-IV (Charlottesville, VA)
• Jim McNeill, VP-V (Birmingham, AL)
• Jim Sears, VP-VI (Burgin, KY)
• Gene Hempel, VP-VII (Garland, TX)
• Travis McGinnis, VP-IX (Arvada, CO)
• Reggie Keyes, VP-X (Carmichael, CA)
• Ed McCollough, VP-XI (Portland, OR)
• Langworthy, VP-XV, NAA

The regular meeting of the Academy of Model Aeronautics' Executive Council was brought to order at 9:15 a.m. by the President.

Approval of Minutes

The minutes of the January 19, 1991 Executive Council meeting were unanimously approved as amended by written Council input.

Executive Vice President's Report

• The EVP submitted travel plans for 1991.
• Year-end statement for 1990 shows expenses at 101% of projections and income at 103%—an accurate forecast by the Finance Committee and good management by Headquarters.
• The first quarter of 1991 shows a loss; projected 8% growth rate was not met—actual growth is at 4%.
• The Council approved the EVP's recommendation that the NAA Board of Directors receive copies of Model Aviation magazine.

Executive Director's Report

• United Airlines offered a discount to AMA if they are named the official AMA airline; Council agreed to use the offer.
• Council approved an IMAX Festival on the AMA Muncie site in June 1992.
• Following discussion concerning the behavior of a Contest Director, the Council unanimously agreed to revoke that member’s Contest Director and leader member status effective May 15 unless an appropriate response is received.
• Council approved buy-out of the lease of a Headquarters photocopying machine.
• One staff member and an AMA-owned van will move to Muncie as early as October; Supply and Service operation may move late in 1991. A replacement van will be needed by year-end.

Marketing

• Council received copies of the new press kit.
• Motion passed (10 for, 3 against) to add $40,000 to the 1991 budget for production of a new video and an advertising campaign.
• Council unanimously approved a demographic profile survey of AMA members.

Safety Committee

• Reported on Control Line testing: 109 samples of wire were tested, including handle and model termination ends. Tests were conducted at one inch per minute using 10 ft. of wire. Carbon steel was recommended for line wire, with possible exceptions.
• Proposed a new pull-test for control lines not to exceed 125% of expected load and a review of rules concerning handle breakage and hand contamination.
• Barriers required in Control Line Speed will continue until further testing is complete.
• Council authorized continuation of tests and increased the Safety Committee's budget by $1,000 to purchase more wire and a small mandrel for testing.
• The committee responded to a Control Line Speed layout request made by HAMCI; the Executive Council agreed with the committee’s action.
• Council unanimously agreed that small diameter cooling fans are not considered metal propellers.

Property Acquisition and Development

• PADC Chairman reported revised cost expectations for building and construction in Muncie; construction bids due to AMA May 24. An artist's concept of Stage I was shown.
• Motion passed (8 for, 3 against, 2 abstentions) to purchase a home and acreage adjacent to AMA property in Muncie.
• Council agreed to implement a Headquarters recommendation offering a two-year membership renewal for $90, with diverted interest applied toward property development.

Ad Hoc Committee on Dues

• Committee report adopted unanimously. Beginning January 1, 1992, dues will be:
• Youth (including publication): $14
• Second Adult Membership (no publication): $22
• Senior Citizen: $20
• Affiliate: $20
• Open Member: $40
• Life Member: $1,500
• Open Limited Member and Booster Member categories to be dropped.
• Treatment of Dues for New Members approved: applies only to new Full Open members (not current or former AMA members).
• New Full Open members joining April 1–June 30 pay full rate and renew at 25% less.
• Joining July 1–Sept 30 renew at 50% less.
• Joining after Sept 30 receive remainder of calendar year plus following year's membership.

Insurance

• Insurance Committee updated Council on two cases in California.

Frequency Committee / FCC

• New FCC document released April 10, 1991 (PR Docket 90-222) requires only narrow-band transmitters be manufactured or imported after March 1, 1992. Only narrow-band transmitters may be sold after March 1, 1993; no wideband transmitters to be used after March 1, 1993.

Events and Competitions

• Plans and preparations for the 1991 Rally and Nationals were discussed. Possibility exists to hold the 1992 Nationals in Muncie if a western site is not forthcoming.
• A technical seminar with demonstrations and discussions is planned in Muncie in spring 1992.
• Reimbursement directive was reiterated for volunteer officers regarding expenses for district contest board members.
• Council reminded that members must comply with prior actions prohibiting surveys and polls by individuals and publications.

Complaints and Accounting Actions

• Council unanimously approved the policy "Handling Complaints Which May Lead to a Hearing" as a standing rule to the Bylaws (contact AMA Headquarters for a copy).
• Council unanimously approved freezing the accounts of District 10 as enacted by the Executive Vice President.

Awards

Council approved the following awards unanimously:

1. Fellowship: Tom McLaughlin
2. Superior Service:

• Watonga RC Flyers Club
• Bill Cunningham
• B.B. Weber
• Ray Marvin
• Byron Blakeslee

The next Executive Council meeting will follow the Nominating Committee meeting in Muncie. The Nominating Committee, chaired by Pete Ware, will meet at 8 a.m.

PRESIDENT'S CORNER

Don Lowe 902 Little Bend Rd., Altamonte Springs, FL 32714

The heading of this column is somewhat apropos—at times I feel boxed into a corner. I’ve written about controversial subjects recently and have received responses from both sides. I welcome your comments even if you disagree; my interest is to promote our hobby so everyone enjoys it. When our hobby ceases to be fun, it's time to find something else.

Leadership requires seeing the larger picture and steering a course that helps the most modelers in the long run. There is no perfect solution to any problem. As an engineer, I know perfect mechanisms don’t exist; human decisions are rarely totally logical. Past experiences shape opinions; we should weave through conflicting input to the best solution possible.

AMA's most important asset is its Council—your representatives. The Council is not self-perpetuating unless you vote for incumbents. Any open member may nominate another member; if you have a candidate, work to get him or her elected. The Council needs smart, conscientious people with business backgrounds willing to give time to the cause.

Good things are happening. The Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) sponsors an RC model weight‑lifting competition among university students worldwide. This year the fly-off was held in Dayton, Ohio at WPAFB (site of our AMA Rally in June). The University of Central Florida won, lifting over 20 pounds. The event is a technical challenge and could inspire AMA to sponsor similar events appealing to grassroots modeling.

Muncie, Indiana: We held a ground-breaking ceremony on May 7 for our flying site construction. Turnout was remarkable—local and regional citizenry, press, government, industry, and business representatives, including the lieutenant governor of Indiana. We expect to complete Phase I by fall. Events are planned for next year, including the 1992 Scale World Championships and possibly the IMAA Rally of Giants.

We want Muncie to be to aeromodeling what Oshkosh is to EAA. Prospects for youth programs, technical symposia, testing facilities, and many quality flying events are exciting.

Regarding the “farming business” accusation: development will be phased to match our ability to pay for it. We expect to begin a fundraising campaign and welcome significant donations or bequests. We will maintain a strong financial posture, including our important insurance program.

Your AMA membership is your most important investment. For a nominal amount you get a lot—and it will get better. As we grow membership we plan a flying-site acquisition program to benefit modelers nationwide—one step at a time.

Modeling is for fun—forget the grousing and go fly!

EXECUTIVE VP's REPORT

Dave Brown AMA Executive VP 4560 Layhigh Road, Hamilton, OH 45013

AMA Income

Recently a member suggested publishing a pie chart showing how his $40 is spent by AMA. Determining how income pays for expenses proved harder than expected because membership categories differ and many members opt for the magazine.

We allocate $9 from each member who receives the magazine to the magazine (this allocation increases to $10 in 1991). The magazine contributes 30% of AMA's total income, and interest income is about half the size of advertising income. Seventy-seven percent of AMA's income comes directly from individual members.

Expense side highlights (based on year ending December 31, 1990):

• Magazine: 25% of expenses (provides 30% of income)
• Salaries + payroll taxes: 28%
• Insurance: 21%
• Other (7%): includes postage, scholarships, committee expense, Nationals, site exploration, office maintenance, supplies, printing, copying, etc.

Expect similar percentages in 1991, with insurance likely increasing a couple of percentage points. In 1992 insurance and occupancy costs (Muncie site) will remain higher; occupancy may return to current levels by 1993 when a planned balloon payment on the Reston building is made.

This report is based on actual 1990 income and expense; AMA's finances are fluid and future projections are difficult.

Till next month.

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR'S VIEW FROM HQ

Vince Mankowski AMA Executive Director 1810 Samuel Morris Dr., Reston, VA 22090

New Dues Rates for 1992

Effective January 1, 1992 the Executive Council restructured membership classes and dues:

• Youth (including Model Aviation): $14 per year
• Second Adult membership (no publication): $22 per year
• Senior Citizen: $30 per year
• Affiliate: $20 per year
• Life membership: $1,500

The Full Open membership annual dues remain $40. Two classifications were deleted: Limited Open membership and the Booster category. Limited Open was dropped because over 90% of members opt for the magazine; Booster was obsolete and no longer justified.

These changes aim to distribute membership costs more fairly. The Full Open member should not subsidize other classes disproportionately.

Membership Renewal Policy and New-Member Treatment

• There will be no 12-month memberships; renewals will follow the usual annual cycle, with renewal notices mailed in late October.
• New Full Open members (first-time, not current/former members) will pay the Full Open rate when joining. Renewal discounts will apply the following year:
• Join April 1–June 30: renewal billed at 25% less
• Join July 1–Sept 30: renewal billed at 50% less
• Join after Sept 30: receive remainder of the year plus following year for full rate

This system credits new members fairly and avoids abuse of prior “freebie” arrangements.

FCC and Future Spectrum Issues

FCC Chairman Alfred C. Sikes described a future with many communications services and reallocation of the broadcast spectrum. The FCC seeks to reassign underutilized spectrum to serve new communications services (wireless phones, low-earth-orbit satellites, digital audio broadcasting, etc.).

Implications for AMA and RC:

• "Use 'em or lose 'em": AMA clubs should document channel use to retain RC frequencies.
• Consideration may be needed for licensing RC channel users to document usage and deter unauthorized users.
• Clubs should think about participation in documentation and licensing efforts as spectrum reallocation progresses.

Nationals Cost Perspective

Each AMA member effectively spent about 11.9 cents on the Nationals; Nationals expense was 0.0029% of AMA operating budget. With significant media coverage and promotion, many see the Nationals as good value.

Other Notes

• Control Line Aerobatic site at Lawrenceville has been reassigned for the 1991 Nationals; Speed and Racing area scheduled for repairs.
• Thanks to the Toledo Weak Signals RC Club for scholarship contributions and Nationals trophy sponsorship.
• If you claimed you never received your membership card or renewal notice, please call Headquarters.

Appreciation for supporting companies: ACE R/C was thanked for sponsorship, participation in fundraisers, and financial assistance producing the "AMA Today" video. Other companies also assist AMA and will be acknowledged periodically.

AMA News — Executive Council Highlights (summary)

Some committee work occurs before Council meetings (insurance, safety, budget, membership). Highlights from committee reports:

• Safety: Control Line wire testing results were provided to the Control Line contest board. A fuel safety bulletin will be drafted. Other discussions included electric fuel pumps, rules for aircraft over 55 lb, Pylon Racing rules, the Open Unlimited race in Madera, safety codes for car and boat operation, and turbine engine development.

• Insurance: An AMA attorney reported on ongoing lawsuits. An umbrella insurance policy was purchased to supplement AMA’s primary policy.

• Budget: Possible slight deficit projected for the year; forecasts were based on 8% growth but growth slowed.

• Membership: The plan for staggered renewal dates was dropped in favor of the new credit system for new Full Open members described above.

• Dues for 1992: Youth $14 (including magazine), Second Adult $22, Senior Citizens $30, Affiliate $20, Open $40, Life $1,500. Open Limited and Booster categories eliminated.

• Life memberships: Effective Jan 1, 1992, $1,500. Payment may be arranged over three years—advantageous for younger members.

• FCC Order: April 10, 1991 FCC order mandates narrow-band transmitters for manufacture/import (after March 1, 1992) and for marketing (after March 1, 1993). A grandfather clause allows wideband equipment purchased before March 1, 1993 to be used until March 1, 1998.

• Local shows: Maine Model Club Association Exposition (Augusta Armory) had better attendance and four seminars on foam cutting, finishing, covering, and radio installation. Several awards were listed.

Sound (continued)

Continuing coverage of sound-reduction developments: further notes on large-engine mufflers, tuned pipes, and ducted-fan mufflers as described in the Sound & Model Aeronautics section. Expect more detailed information and addresses for suppliers in upcoming issues.

IV DISTRICT REPORT

Howard Crispin, District IV Vice-President

The flying season is underway. In early May there have already been several events. Weather is always a concern early in the year, but this season has treated modelers fairly well.

• The Control Line contest hosted by the Norfolk Aeromodellers experienced some rain but proceeded as scheduled.
• A two-day Free Flight event at Culpeper, Virginia hosted by the Capital Area Antique Modelers Association and the Aero Craftsmen of Baltimore went well despite wind and the threat of rain. Free Flight is growing, increasing demand for large, suitable sites.
• The Brainbusters' meet at Petersburg (VA) Airport and another Free Flight meet at Bill Saunders' farm near Cuckoo, Virginia are upcoming.

Flying sites:

• Some smaller clubs have excellent locations, often remote but with fewer noise issues. One example is the Southside Virginia Radio Control Club's field east of Burkeville—well-kept and adequate with no nearby houses.
• More clubs are forming in remote areas where land is affordable and overflight areas are clear. A little rolling, seeding, and adding accessories can make a satisfactory field.

Ed Byerley:

• Ed resigned as Radio Control Coordinator for District IV due to health. He praised Contest Directors and urged active members to volunteer for the position. Several candidates are under consideration.

Travel and duties:

• June will be busy with the AMA Rally at Dayton (sound committee seminar) and F3A Team Selection judging at Elgin AFB, including setting up sound measuring equipment.
• July includes the Nationals at Lawrenceville and an Executive Council meeting in Muncie to review Muncie site progress.
• Mailings: many newsletters arrive torn or wrinkled from postal handling—please staple or package for protection.

AMA HQ SERVICES STAFF

• Executive Director: Vince Mankowski
• Director, Operations: Robert Vojslavek
• Personnel Manager: Diane Gallalee
• Technical Director: Bob Underwood
• Comptroller: Lynn Collins
• Competition Services Director: Micheline Madison
• Special Services Director: Carl Maroney
• Membership Processing Supervisor: Joyce Hager
• Marketing Director: Geoff Styles
• Systems Manager: Reggie Watterson
• Director, Internal Communication/Education: Doug Pratt
• Publications Director: Ross B. McMullen
• Events Coordinator: Chip Smith
• Museum Curator: Hurst Bowers
• General Counsel: Bob Jackson

(August 1991)

VI DISTRICT REPORT

Jim Sears, District VI Vice-President PO Box 308, Burgin, KY 40310 — (606) 748-5834

• Attended EAA's Sun‑N‑Fun in Florida for the first time; the show showcased excellent full-scale aircraft and scale subjects. Met fellow modelers at the NAA tent.
• Attended Brownsville, Kentucky swap shop and static contest. Attendance was down, but models have improved significantly.
• Reston council meeting attendance with lousy weather—timed well for indoor work.

Dues changes:

• Dues structure for 1992 will change; Full Open members see no dues increase. Part of the prior voucher system was reinstated as an end-of-year credit for new members to prevent abuse.

Competitor licensing:

• A proposal to issue a special competitor license was discussed to cover extra costs incurred supporting competition activities. The license would cost more but provide rulebooks, possibly other perks, and be aimed at members who compete in rule-book events.

FCC ruling:

• Wideband radios are grandfathered through 1998. Clubs are moving toward narrow-band radios quickly. Guidance on converted radios is awaited.

Muncie site:

• Groundbreaking scheduled for May 7; bids are going out. Progress is expected soon. The site is intended for many planned events, possibly including the 1992 Nationals.

Financials:

• Organization assets reported at $10.4 million; extra insurance purchased to protect assets.

Local outreach:

• Attended a mall show in Somerset, Kentucky to promote AMA and club chartering. The Family Hobbies Flying Club in Harlan, Kentucky has chartered—contact me for local connections.

VII DISTRICT REPORT

Peter Waters, District VII Vice-President

Apologies for missing photos in last month’s column—photos mailed were apparently lost. When sending photos, please avoid writing on the backs as ink can bleed through and ball-point pens create impressions that show on the image.

Radio interference:

• In the Detroit area, a 100-watt pager will operate at 72.86 MHz from the top of the Penobscot Building and may interfere with channel 54 users. This could affect Canadian modelers in Windsor as well.

District representation:

• At the last Executive Council meeting, most district VPs emphasized their role as liaisons, bringing district information to AMA and returning help and resources from HQ. One VP expressed a more insular, dollar-in/dollar-out view—an attitude at odds with broader AMA goals.

District staff:

• District VII has unique roles: an Assistant VP (Boyd Bowdish) and a District PR Coordinator (Joe Hass). Joe’s marketing and sales background has been invaluable in developing programs and maintaining communication with municipal and state officials.

Public relations guidance from Joe Hass:

• "Dig the well before you are thirsty." PR must be coordinated and persistent.
• Show your models—carry photos, display at work, and introduce model aviation to friends and officials.
• Offer youth programs and hands-on instruction.
• Put events and meetings in the newspaper; issue press releases and invite officials.
• Know your club’s demographics and economic impact.
• Approach officials individually and build relationships over years, not weeks.
• Keep PR upbeat and persistent; try different approaches until something works.

Local news:

• The long-running Michigan Exchange Clubs State Meet was canceled this year due to a non-modeling incident at the track; hopes are to resume next year.

Associate VP reports and local activities:

• Jefco auction (first weekend in February 1991) grossed about $58,000 with over 800 items auctioned and roughly 550 registered bidders; plans for a repeat in 1992.
• Several Colorado clubs are negotiating new flying sites with state and local officials; AMA Headquarters PR materials can assist.
• Contact and thanks to Gary Buffington, Park Manager of Chatfield State Recreation Area, for ongoing support.

Condolences:

• Betty Sadler passed away March 14, 1991. She was long-time supporter of Jefco Aeromodelers and is mourned by the modeling community.

North Dakota report:

• Summer activities focused on Pylon Racing and weekend fun-flys. Minot and Fargo clubs have new flying fields. Quarter-scale flying is increasing in popularity.

Keep your landings smooth and intentional!

PR ROUNDUP (additional notes)

Geoffrey Styles, Director, Marketing

(Repeated / consolidated remarks)

• AMA’s affiliations—American Recreation Coalition, National Recreation and Park Association, NASAO—help extend relationships with federal, state, and local agencies, promoting the sport and helping clubs secure flying privileges on public lands.
• Keep up local PR efforts: meet officials, place events in newspapers, and maintain consistent outreach.
• NASAO’s mission is to encourage intergovernmental cooperation in aviation services and facilities nationwide.
• AMA continues to represent model aviation in national forums and to provide PR support to member clubs.

(End of document)

Transcribed from original scans by AI. Minor OCR errors may remain.