AMA News

AMA News

Lead time and travel

One of the odd, sometimes frustrating things about writing for magazines is the lead time—about 120 days from start to publication. Add a lot of job-related travel and that timeline stretches further. As I write this on March 1, 1993, you won't read it until after midyear.

California trip (January–February)

I spent a month in California to examine flying-site conditions at Mile Square Park (an old marine base), visit clubs, legislators, educators, manufacturers, and inspectors, and meet club officers and members to get a sense of how AMA is perceived 2,500 miles from the Reston office.

I missed most of the rain but did see houses that had slid from their foundations into canyons—a terrible situation for those homeowners.

At a joint meeting of Mile Square Park users, representatives from nine clubs plus model rocket enthusiasts discussed the park's management by Orange County, the need for a positive public image through cooperation and safe practices, and how to ensure future flying-site availability in this huge metropolitan area.

Ideas to attract visitors included a static hobby display this summer to demonstrate the varied uses of the park and to show the diversity of people involved in model aviation—professionally and socially. Public officials often don't see that diversity in a sports group, and an open house can help open their eyes.

I met many Los Angeles–area clubs, including:

• San Fernando Valley Flyers
• El Dorado Silent Flyers
• "F" Troop
• Orange Coast R/C Club
• Flying Falcons R/C
• RC Country
• Scale Squadron
• American Model Airport Association (Chino)

Thanks to everyone for the warm welcome. Betty Streem, Associate Vice President for the area, joined me at the joint club meeting held at Cal State–Pomona. The meeting was arranged by Eusebio Fernandez of the Chino club.

A report on the AVP meeting will follow. One helpful request from that meeting: please send a copy of your club's officer list and your club newsletter to your district AVP. AVPs do have the AMA club list, but having officer contact lists and newsletters helps them fulfill their responsibilities and stay aware of your club's activities and concerns. AMA HQ will communicate with AVPs, but clubs can help by including local AVPs on these items.

Muncie and National events

• The Muncie setup will initially use part of the existing museum building for office space; a permanent facility will be added following the sale of AMA's Reston building.
• Muncie site improvements continue, with several events scheduled this year. Our second gathering in Muncie will be a Homecoming event in June with model flying, rocket demos, competition kite flying, a street rod show, and more.
• The National Aeromodelling Championships will return to Lawrenceville this year.
• In the fall, AMA will host the Free Flight World Championships in Lost Hills, California.

Technical activities and FCC testing

AMA is becoming more involved in the technical side of the hobby in line with our educational charter. One major activity has been frequency acquisition and radio operation in today's crowded electromagnetic environment.

• The Academy received FCC permission to perform tests at Muncie to gather empirical data on how the FCC Notice of Proposed Rule Making (NPRM) would affect aeromodelling.
• Warren Blocher, George Steiner, Bill Hershberger, and Don Lowe will conduct tests the week of April 18.
• The test aircraft will simulate proposed signal strengths, include telemetry and power-failure counters, and record real-world problems. A written report will be filed with the FCC to help accommodate aeromodelling concerns in any NPRM revisions.

The FAI Sporting Code (FAI rule book)

Why do we charge $5 for an FAI rule book?

• The United States consumes about 40% of the global distribution of FAI rule books—roughly 2,000 of 5,000 printed every four years.
• AMA offered to update and produce the rule book for faster availability to members. Costs include updating (labor), printing, and bulk shipping.
• AMA sells the book to members for $5 through AMA Supply and Service; that fee offsets production and shipping costs.
• The remaining 3,000 copies are distributed by FAI in Paris—two copies to each national aero club, with the rest sold internationally at about 55 francs (roughly $10).

If someone complains the book should be free or objects to the $5 charge, please explain that AMA provides a quick, low-cost option for members; the alternative is writing to Paris, enclosing 55 francs, and waiting six to ten weeks.

Busy, busy, busy (staff and activities)

In the last 30 days:

• Mike Fulmer (curator) attended a seminar for aviation museum curators in Washington, D.C.
• Chip Smith visited Reston to help load museum artifacts and coordinate 1993 Nationals work.
• Liz Helms (Muncie) reviewed DTP products and procedures for awards, score sheets, handouts, and other in-house production.
• George Steiner did an electronic damage inventory of AMA radios, amplifiers, speakers, and other equipment.
• New District 10 Vice President Rich Hoawson visited AMA HQ for orientation.
• A safety committee meeting was held at HQ.
• Staff and volunteers attended shows and meetings: Maine Expo, 1993 Toledo show, Cincinnati insurance meeting, FAI CIAM meeting, and multiple trips to Muncie.
• Movers and packers have boxed the former library into 163 cartons.
• Third renewal notices and another membership mailing (totaling 43,000 pieces) were sent.
• Annual physical completed.

Fund-raising prospectus for the National Flying Site:

• AMA produced a prospectus to solicit donors to complete the National Flying Site.
• The prospectus is printed on quality stock with artwork by Bob Benjamin, plans and photos by Richard Linder and Martin Potts, a history compiled by John Hutton, and good photography.
• Copies will be distributed to the Executive Council and all AVPs for targeted mailings to potential donors. The goal is to generate at least $20,000–$30,000.

Member news and columns

• Note: The Gallleville, New York, flying field—the only adequate free-flight field in the Northeast—was almost lost in 1992 because the field is available only on approved scheduled dates. Contact Dave Eaton, RD #3, Box 227, Mahopac, NY 10541; (914) 628-0526 for schedules and questions.
• WRAM show (White Plains Civic Center) was held February 27–28 and was a success.
• District 2 AMA meeting on February 27 included Vince Mankowski (Executive Director), Bob Underwood (Technical Director), Jay Mealy (Public Relations), and District 2 AVPs. Topics included FCC, Muncie progress, and general developments.

Member letter (Joseph Capozzello, Brooklyn, NY)

• Joseph sent a snapshot of his son Charlie with a new Ace T-34 (a low-wing trainer). Charlie has about a year of flying experience, is not yet qualified, but handles takeoffs and landings and has won trophies at club fun-flys.
• They belong to the Radio Control Society of Marine Park (RCSMP), which has dedicated instructors and an increasing number of youth members (ages nine to 13). Joseph praises teaching new fliers and notes the fun of friendly competition.

Indoor free flight (Gary Underwood)

• Gary Underwood (president, East Coast Indoor Modelers) gave an enlightening talk and demonstration on indoor free flight to the Mercer County Radio Control Society. Indoor free flight involves more than a small plane and a rubber band—tests are tedious and delicate.
• Gary is the current AMA Indoor Free Flight Champion.

MCRC auction (January 23)

• Mercer County Radio Control Society held its annual auction at the Kreps School in Hightstown, NJ, drawing over 500 modelers. The event was a chance to meet fellow modelers, renew friendships, and enjoy food and camaraderie. Thanks to all who attended.

District 3 Report

Bob Brown, Vice President 1255 High Street, Bradford, PA 16701 Phone: (814) 362-7702

Associate Vice Presidents

• Mike Barbee, 6561 Calvary Court, Columbus, OH 43229-2008
• David H. Ellis, 5261 DeWitt Road, Cross Lanes, WV 25313-1209
• Nelson Gould, 1944 S. Idaho Street, Allentown, PA 18103
• John Hathaway, 702 Woodmere Drive, New Stanton, PA 15672
• Donald Klopp, 370 West Valley Forge Road, King of Prussia, PA 19406
• Joseph S. Vislay, 1381 Cranbrook Drive, Maumee, OH 43537
• Lawrence R. Weimer, 15613 Greendale Avenue, Maple Heights, OH 44137
• Mark Wilson, 4913 Marcy, Dayton, OH 45449

Frequency Coordinator John Cottle, 1012 Wyoming Avenue, Forty Fort, PA 18704 Phone: (717) 287-8970

District news

• Toledo 1993: Thanks to the Weak Signals club for the great Toledo show and for a key donation to AMA's scholarship fund.
• Cleveland mall show: The 42nd Cleveland Model Show, sponsored by the Cleveland Aeromodel Society, drew over 600 entries and awarded 300 trophies across nine categories and 87 subcategories. Thirteen clubs cooperated to make the show a success.
• Hall of Fame: Earl Witt and Charles Tracy of District 3 were inducted into the AMA Hall of Fame. Charles Tracy organized the first Cleveland mall show 42 years ago—an apt setting for the presentation.
• Leader Club award: Westlake R/C Club became the first District 3 club to achieve Gold Leader Club status. Consider whether Leader Club status would benefit your club.
• Keystone Radio Control Society (Harrisburg, PA): Active beginning flyers program—students fly Tuesday evenings May through September, supervised by volunteer instructors. New pilots, upon successful official flights, receive a wall plaque signed by club officers. Contact Tom Duck at (717) 566-0284 for more information.

District 5 (Large-Scale Aircraft Inspector patch plan)

Continuing the effort to identify and acknowledge Large Scale Aircraft Inspectors at large- and giant-scale events, AMA and the International Miniature Aircraft Association (IMAA) have coordinated the following plan:

• Inspectors of large- and giant-scale models below 55 pounds will be awarded a cloth patch identifying them as such.
• Inspectors are required to be members of both AMA and IMAA.
• Named Contest Directors (CDs) or officially sanctioned AMA large- or giant-scale fun-flys will have the final say on who receives a patch.
• CDs will be given four or five patches at no cost to distribute to qualified inspectors.
• The patches cost approximately $1.03 each; District 5 requested 220 patches initially and will reorder if needed.
• The IMAA Safety Inspection Form (Airworthiness Inspection Form) is the basic checklist inspectors will use. The form includes a pilot declaration confirming at least six prior flights and a signature by the inspector for record-keeping.

District 5 patches will be available for purchase from AMA Supply and Service at approximately $2 each once distributed through AMA HQ.

District 7 Report

Column by Joe Hass, District 7 AVP

Detroit Balsa Bugs — 50 years

On November 14, 1992, the Detroit Balsa Bugs celebrated 50 years. Five original members are still active. The day included static displays, an evening banquet, a history booklet by Marlene Stoll, awards, photos, raffle prizes, and many stories. Guest speakers included Jim "AJ" Smith, Tony Italiano, Joe Hass, and Frank Garcher. Messages were brought from AMA Executive Director Vince Mankowski and District 7 VP Pete Waters. Congratulations to the Detroit Balsa Bugs.

Other items

• District 7 VP position is up for election this year. Interested parties should contact headquarters or Pete Waters for information.
• Swap shop season has wound down and flying season is underway. Teamwork makes events successful—thank the Contest Directors (CDs) at your next event.
• Club outreach is valuable: giving talks and displaying models introduces more people to aeromodeling and helps recruit new members.

Enjoy the summer!

District 8 Report

Gene Hempel, Vice President 301 N. Yale Drive, Garland, TX 75042

Associate Vice Presidents

• Chuck Andraka, 1701 Martha, N.E., Albuquerque, NM 87112
• Max Blasco, 1001 N. Betsy, Waco, TX 76706
• Clive Brothers, 4903 Whispering Oaks Drive, College Station, TX 77845
• Glenn Greens, 10224 Kenlee Drive, Baton Rouge, LA 70815
• Bill Kimbro, 2105 Wood Street, Texarkana, TX 75501
• Steve Staples, 1300 Tiana Valley, Little Rock, AR 72207
• Jim Traw, 1135 Merryment Green, Norman, OK 73072
• Ray Wagner, 2719 Verde, Odessa, TX 79762
• John Walls, 2052 Montgomery, PO Box 2241, Laredo, TX 78044

AMA Coordinator Karen Hopkins, 5515 Bridgeton Avenue, Arlington, TX 76018

Frequency Coordinators

• North: Joe DuMond, 1830 Chevy Chase, Carrollton, TX 75006
• South: Tim Ahrens, 14824 Bear Creek Pass, Austin, TX 78737

Free flight (FF) activities and contest highlights

• Marvin Mace: swept B Gas and placed third in C Gas.
• Bob Hanford: won 1/2A Gas and placed third in A/B Electric.
• Bob Combs: took third in 1/2A Gas and FAI flying his Bobcat.
• Roger Simpson (recent West Coast transplant) won F1C at the Spring and Autumn Cups and at the U.S. FAI Team Trials (with Doug Galbreath and Ed Keck on the team).
• Mark Troutman won F1J at the Autumn Cup flying a stock Tee Dee .049 Mini-Pearl.
• Tri-City Fliers, Texas Cloud Climbers, and other clubs hosted well-attended meets. Nostalgia flying remains strong in the district.

If you can make it to the Pensacola June contest, plan to attend—Tom McLaughlin and Bob Junk run a superb event.

District 9 Report

Russ Miller, Vice President 980 N. 3rd Street, Carrington, ND 58421 Days: (701) 652-2739 — Evenings: (701) 652-2321

Associate Vice Presidents

• Nathan Lancaster, 3597 S. Kendall Street, Denver, CO 80235
• Travis McGinnis, 8027 W. 81st Circle, Arvada, CO 80005
• Loren Moen, 607 E. Vera, Bottineau, ND 58318
• Don Moden, 410 Hart, Salina, KS 67401
• Jim Ricketts, 4921 Fernwood Drive, Sioux Falls, SD 57103-5573
• R.L. "Doc" Scraper, 3524 Roe Avenue, Overland Park, KS 66207
• Jack L. Siebert, 3611 Kimberly Circle, Lincoln, NE 68506-4524
• Chuck Smith, 1091 Cheshire Street, Casper, WY 82609-3214

Frequency Coordinator: Steve Mangles, c/o Radio Service Center, 918 S. Sheridan, Denver, CO 80226

District news

• District 9 patch: Thanks to Dr. Neal Martin (Grand Forks, ND) for designing the district patch and selecting the color scheme.
• Genoa R/C Fliers (Genoa, NE) held their seventh annual fun-fly on June 14 at the Genoa Airport with 43 pilots and 93 airplanes despite morning drizzle. Raffles, prizes, and three Pilots' Choice trophies were awarded.
• The Genoa R/C Fliers maintain a cooperative relationship with the airport authority and participate in Nebraska's Adopt-a-Highway program to thank the authority for field use.
• Video projects: Mac McGinnis and Bob Pasanault have been recording flights with an 8mm camera in a 1/4-scale Balsa USA L-4 Cub; results include spectacular takeoffs, landings, and rolls. Contacts for video info: The Genoa R/C Fliers, Box 164A, c/o Bob Pasanault, Genoa, NE 68640.

North Dakota news (Jay Manely, Valley R.C. Flyers)

• The Valley R/C Flyers of Fargo sponsored the 13th annual West Acres mall show (February 20, 1993), featuring approximately 130 RC aircraft and two full-scale planes from EAA Chapter 317. The show drew entrants from the Dakotas, Minnesota, Montana, and Manitoba and presented $350 in door prizes and trophies.

District 10 (Community involvement and youth partnerships)

• Clubs are encouraged to engage in community and civic activities to strengthen support for local flying sites and generate public goodwill.
• Example: Phoenix Race Oriented Flyers (PRO-Flyers) conducted "Racing for a Rainbow" (March 26–28) with the West Phoenix Optimist Club to raise funds for Camp Rainbow for children with cancer. All proceeds from entries, parking, and concessions were donated.
• Example: Sacramento Area Modelers combined efforts with BSA Troop 212 (Citrus Heights, CA) for the Western Regional Warbird Race (April 2–4). Scouts ran a field kitchen and served as course workers and timekeepers.
• Other charitable events supported by clubs include Toys for Tots, Easter Seals, Make-A-Wish, and Big Brothers/Big Sisters.
• Leader Club recognition: San Gabriel Valley Radio Control League (Whittier, CA) and Fort Bragg Fog Busters (Fort Bragg, CA) achieved Leader Club status. Contact Jay Mealy at AMA HQ for Leader Club information.

District 11 Report

Ed McCollough, Vice President P.O. Box 13777, Portland, OR 97213 Phone: (503) 234-4439 CompuServe e-mail: 76007,2422

Associate Vice Presidents

• Darrell Anderson, 132 15th Ave., NW, Great Falls, MT 59404
• Al Cover, Box 86, Wilder, ID 83676
• Jerry Holmbohm, 10010 N.E. 122nd Ave., Vancouver, WA 98684
• Gil Hornish, P.O. Box 107, Ritzville, WA 99169-0107
• Tom McCulmeen, 16281 Black Bear Dr., Anchorage, AK 99516
• Dave Mullins, 5559 Pendleton Ave., Tacoma, WA 98413
• Bruce Nelson, 807 E. Vicksburg St., Spokane, WA 99208
• Dick Wickline, P.O. Box 223, Klamath Falls, OR 97601
• Chick Young, 7411 154 Ave. E., #14, Sumner, WA 98390

Assistant Frequency Coordinator: Al Watson, 1304 145th N.E., Bellevue, WA 98007

District news and events

• Condolences: Paul Agger (Eugene Toy and Hobby Shop) passed away on February 16. Paul was well-known to control-line fliers and generously supported regionals and contests.
• New Scalemasters Regionals: Farragut (June 18–20), Whidbey Island (July 24–25), and a new site at Lenhardt's airstrip near Hubbard, OR (August 13–15).
• Whidbey Island uses an auxiliary naval air station strip—ideal for ducted fans and aircraft with small wheels.
• Lenhardt runway (Hubbard): paved with grass extension/overrun; contact AVP Jerry Holcomb at (206) 892-7722 (evenings preferred).
• OMAS #1 moved its annual get-together to August 7–8 to avoid conflict with the Sky Knights Scalemasters meet—two great Portland-area opportunities in successive weekends.
• Control line interest: Mark Wahlster (503) 873-3775 and Mike Hazel (503) 364-8593 are organizing a fun fly and club in the Salem area—contact them for details.
• Alaska: Annual Alaska State Champs and float-craft activities in Anchorage—highly recommended for floatplane enthusiasts.
• Many summer events are scheduled across the district, including the Prestige Meet (Medford Eagle's Roost, June 19–20), a Big Bird Fly-In (Eagles, July 4 weekend), Wenatchee Pattern Contest (July 10–11), and numerous other regional contests and fly-ins.
• For up-to-date contest schedules, send a stamped, self-addressed envelope to Bill Smith (district contest coordinator) and request the schedule.

Closing notes from the President

Don Lowe President, Academy of Model Aeronautics 902 Little Bend Road, Altamonte Springs, FL 32714

Highlights from my California visit:

• I visited with long-time aviation figure Henry Serrano Villard, who donated the Villard Cup to the Aerospace Museum in Balboa Park, San Diego. At age 93 he continues to work on new books—congratulations and best wishes.
• I flew a four-meter sailplane at Torrey Pines with Larry Fogel of La Jolla and shared airspace with hang gliders and parasailers—an enjoyable experience.
• Thanks to Roger Jaffe (San Diego) for producing a regional guidebook of clubs and flying sites, and to Pat Hart for his support with the Los Angeles and Orange County Club Guide.

More next month. Keep them safe—and keep them flyin'.

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