AMA News
Inside View — Headquarters
Academy of Model Aeronautics 5151 East Memorial Drive Muncie, IN 47302
Update
Several years have passed since the handbook "Sound Control for Model Aircraft" was published. There have been many developments in quieter muffler techniques, manufactured propellers, and improved vibration‑isolator installations that need wider introduction to aeromodelers. Items shown at trade shows do not mean the majority of modelers see them; trade‑show visitors are often overwhelmed and focus on big‑ticket items and accessories. The Executive Council authorized a supplement to the handbook to provide updated information on reducing sound levels and to help clubs deal effectively with local noise complaints. The supplement is intended to be used with the technical and legal information in the original handbook. Efforts are underway to have the supplement ready for printing early spring.
The supplement will require input from individuals and manufacturers. Useful information includes (but is not limited to):
- mounting systems and vibration isolation
- effective mufflers, pipes, and muffler‑pipe adapters
- vibration‑ and heat‑proof couplings
- propeller designs and related powerplant items
Executive Council Meetings
- January 28–29 — Muncie, IN
- April 21–22 — Visalia, CA
- July 29–30 — Oshkosh, WI
Elections
This year’s Vice‑Presidential election brought several personnel changes on the Council. To summarize Council changes:
- John Grigg replaces Joe Beshar — District II
- Charlie Bauer replaces Jim Sears — District VI
- George Aldrich replaces Gene Hempel — District VIII
We welcome the new Vice Presidents and look forward to a productive year. Thanks to departing officers for their untiring efforts on behalf of the Academy. The Council performs thankless tasks but takes satisfaction from the growth of the hobby, technical progress, media recognition, and the continued fascination aeromodeling provides thousands of fliers. The Council will continue to stay aware of changes and open new ways to accommodate aeromodelers’ desires.
New Thrusts
To move beyond business as usual, the AMA is pursuing several changes:
- National Flying Site and Headquarters Move
The move aims to focus growth and acceptance while reducing operating costs. Early benefits include reduced costs and national exposure — ESPN ran a one‑hour segment showing the facility and a major event. The Muncie facility will be key to continued exposure; 1995 is expected to be busy with events, possibly including a triple‑header in August: Pylon Racing World Championships, Giant Scale Racing/T‑6s, and Formula/Hot Air Balloon exposition.
- Strategic Planning
A systematic planning approach has been adopted. Two sessions have been held and plans will be updated at least yearly.
- Fund‑Raising
An organized, ongoing fund‑raising effort is underway to reduce dependence on membership dues and to expand support for flying sites and technical development. The initial focus is completion and development of the Muncie facility. Future revenue initiatives may include commemorative plaques, specialty publications, apparel, and a member credit card — all intended to serve members’ needs while diversifying revenue.
- More Change / Technology and Services
A new Bulletin Board System is being developed to provide up‑to‑date information and services for a nominal charge (users must have modem/computer access). Headquarters staff in Muncie include new professionals. Efforts continue to improve membership processing, the magazine (e.g., the youth issue), and the public museum at headquarters.
Keep the feedback coming — if membership services don’t improve, tell us. And consider sending a note of thanks when you see things you like; it encourages your Vice President.
DISTRICT I REPORT
Connecticut / Maine / Massachusetts / New Hampshire / Rhode Island & Vermont
Don Krafft — Vice President PO Box 1828, Duxbury, MA 02331-1828 (617) 934-6248
Associate Vice Presidents
- James M. Semonian, 166 Allen Road, Billerica, MA 01821-5240
- Bob Landry, 80 Main Street, Essex Junction, VT 05452-3146
- M.C. McGuffin, 8 Robinson Street, Houlton, ME 04730-2312
- Harry S. Newman, 36 Sherwood Drive, Hooksett, NH 03106-1077
- Richard Sherman, 28 High Street, Plymouth, NH 03264-1223
- Ed Thompson, 27 E. Greenwich Ave., West Warwick, RI 02893-5405
- Bob Wallace, 91 Sylvan Street, Avon, CT 06001-1230
Frequency Coordinator
- George Wilson, 82 Frazier Way, Marstons Mills, MA 02648-1866
Upcoming events and items of interest:
- Pilot and Judging Seminar — March 26, 1995, at the Comfort Inn Suites, Haverhill, MA. Not just for judges; recommended for anyone interested in competition flying. Call Don Krafft for more information.
- District I Fun‑Fly — August 5–6, 1995. Hosted by South Shore Radio Control Club at the Bridgewater, MA club field. Two events per day plus a juniors‑only event each day. Sunday afternoon: District I shoot‑out. Contact Don Krafft with event suggestions.
- Northern Connecticut Airshow — August 19–20, 1995, at the former Pratt & Whitney airport in East Hartford, CT. Proceeds will be donated to the Fidelco Guide Dog Foundation. Contact Dick Russell for more information.
- Rhode Island Aeromodelers Flying Circus — The club’s 5th annual RC airshow (held October 2, 1994) benefited the Meeting Street Center and included demos, free balloons, a kids’ glider contest, food, and spectator flying opportunities with buddy cords. The club has raised thousands for the Center over five years.
Photos from the Maine Scale contest (August 6–7, 1994) were noted for future columns.
LOSS OF DISTRICT II IS GAIN OF DISTRICT V
Pat Buzzeo has moved to Boynton Beach, Florida. A past president of Rockland R/C Club and a U.S. Marine Corps veteran, Pat has shown dedication to aeromodeling and fellowship. He, his son Mike, and grandson Jason represent three generations of modelers.
— AVP Wes De Cou
SKYBLAZERS ENTERTAIN HANDICAPPED
The Atlantic County Skyblazers hosted handicapped children at an event dedicated to the late John Tulli, the club secretary. Twenty‑two children enjoyed demonstration flying, prebuilt Delta Darts, hot dogs, and a picnic. The Pinelands K‑9 club demonstrated dog obedience; children who could participate helped walk dogs through an obstacle course. Staff and volunteers provided transportation and attention to the children’s needs. It was a joyful day for all.
BOB GRAHAM ANNOUNCES 1994 SUSSEX AIRSHOW
On August 25, Sussex Airport hosted the 9th Annual Laser Invitational Fun‑Fly — one of the best flying days of the summer with cool weather and light winds. The show featured all types of model airplanes (giant scale to gliders) and included a control‑line area. Precision flying displays by Bob Boswell and Robby McClellen (jet formation) impressed spectators. Paul Stygert, airport manager, aims to make this the largest RC model show in the U.S.; being part of the full‑scale airshow is a major plus. Fran Fanelli of Flying Models was the major organizer, assisted by volunteers from Top‑O‑N.J. R.C. Club.
THIS IS PAUL O'NEILL
Paul O'Neill, age 16, started modeling at 14 and won six first places and one second in 1993, becoming District Champion for NSRCA (National Society of RC Aerobatics). He flies an Ugly Stick and Trainer 60 and later flew a Delight with a YS 120 FS engine and Airtronics Vision radio. Paul is in high school and plans a career in naval aviation and videotape editing. He builds sport ships and competes in Pattern (Sportsman class). He is a member of Pine Barons Model Club and Ocean County Modelers. Paul has 27 hours in a full‑scale Cessna 152 and is ready to solo.
— AVP Woody Woodman
DISTRICT IV REPORT
Delaware / District of Columbia / Maryland / North Carolina / Virginia
Howard Crispin — Vice President 611 Beechwood Drive, Charlottesville, VA 22901
Associate Vice Presidents
- Robert E. Babura, Severn, MD
- Bob Champine, Newport News, VA
- Chuck Foreman, Mechanicsville, VA
- Doug Holland, Raleigh, NC
- Scotty Moyer, Wilmington, DE
- Richard (Dick) Smith, Waynesboro, VA
- Charles Spear, Mocksville, NC
Frequency Coordinator
- Paul Yaccobacci, Fayetteville, NC — (919) 488-5986 (evening)
Election 1994 Thanks to District IV members who voted in the Academy elections. Participation was low overall; many members did not mail ballots despite the minimal cost. The District IV officers will continue to work for the Academy and need member input to set direction.
Flying Sites There is a strong need for a national flying site registry so Headquarters and District officers can locate fields, direct newcomers, and prevent radio‑interference conflicts. The registry would include club designation, contact person, a highway map, and geographic coordinates (latitude/longitude). With increasing use of handheld GPS, this is feasible. Maps of flying site locations will be requested at the Executive Council meeting on January 28–29; District IV clubs are encouraged to submit simple maps to Howard Crispin.
Active Clubs and Community Outreach Club activity that presents model aviation to the public is vital. The Burlington‑Alamance Radio Kontrol Society (BARKS) has been active in community events, balloon festivals, swap shops, sanctioned events, and will host a "Charity Fly‑In" on April 22 with the Burlington Airport Authority. The club also held a successful display at Holly Hill Mall with TV/VCR support and model demonstrations.
Resort Update The Dare County Radio Control Club (Outer Banks area) maintains a site west of Manteo on US 64; visitors should contact Dewey Mann before going to the field.
DISTRICT V REPORT
Jim McNeill — Vice President 617 South 20 Avenue, Birmingham, AL 35205 (205) 322-2127
Summary of recent Executive Council actions and votes:
- AMA recognized as a 501(c)(3) organization (note to members).
- Accepted a new Visa credit card program (First USA Bank) that contributes to AMA each time it is used — voted YES.
- Established a Steering Committee for a new information system regarding AMA software/hardware — voted YES.
- Approved the 1995 budget as presented — voted YES.
- Approved paying out funds for Visalia, CA property as they are raised (separate from general funds) — voted YES.
- Required additional insurance ($1,000,000) for certain high‑risk racing contests — voted YES.
- Accepted the National Competition Fun‑Fly Association as a Special Interest Group — voted YES.
- Voted to increase type size for AMA News and officer columns to size 8 or 9 — voted YES.
1995 NATS locations:
- Lawrenceville, IL — July 8–16 (RC Pattern, RC Pylon)
- Tri‑Cities, WA — July 8–16 (RC, FF, CL, Scale; all control line indoor)
- Muncie, IN — July 8–16 (Free Flight, Soaring, Helicopter)
A motion to create a museum division to ensure museum‑donated funds are used only for museum purposes failed; the author voted NO due to vagueness.
Tragedy Burnis Fields, a respected Frequency Coordinator who helped clubs with equipment and expertise to track intruders and keep radio lanes clean, passed away following complications after triple bypass surgery. He will be missed.
Other items
- A new seaplane site has been organized in Dover, Florida (Florida Float Flyers RC Model Aircraft Club) on Hillsborough County property — open to AMA members.
- Letters from members included concerns about the future of Scale competition at the NATS and appreciation from a junior modeler for district columns and published voting records.
(Photos accompanying the column were noted but not transcribed.)
DISTRICT VI REPORT
Illinois / Indiana / Kentucky / Missouri
Jim Sears — Vice President P.O. Box 308, Burgin, KY 40310 (606) 748-5834
This is my last column after ten years on the Executive Council. Charlie Bauer of Norridge, IL, will be the new District VI Vice President. Charlie is enthusiastic about the hobby (FF, CL, RC, Scale) and is known as a friendly, participatory competitor. Please welcome and support him.
Thanks and reminders
- Thanks to district officers who have worked with little input — your efforts are appreciated.
- Use Associate Vice Presidents (AVPs); they fill gaps a VP cannot cover. If you don't use them, they may step down.
- Newsletter editors: please send copies to Charlie Bauer (replace Jim Sears). Kentucky clubs that list Jim as an AVP should continue to send copies to him if applicable.
- Thanks to newsletter editors for keeping the VP informed; being an editor is a time‑consuming labor of love.
- Photos: please send event photos to the new VP.
Recent trip Attended the Southern Indiana R/C Modelers' first annual swap shop in Corydon, IN. The event was a surprising success with heavy participation; expect it to continue as an annual event.
Print size change Print size in the column has been increased for readability; this reduces the amount of text per column.
Invitation If you are ever in Burgin, KY, call ahead and drop by.
With that, I sign off.
— Jim Sears
ADDITIONAL NOTES AND REMINDERS
- The AMA Computer BBS is working and one free access per AMA chartered club is available; designate a club spokesman to enroll.
- Eighteen clubs have attained Gold level in the Club Leader program; banners will be available to recognize these clubs. Banners will also be available to other clubs for a nominal charge through AMA Supplies and Service.
- The Executive Council will continue to work on strategic planning, funding diversification, membership services, and museum support. Member participation and feedback remain essential to the Academy’s success.
Till next time — keep 'em safe and keep 'em flyin'.
Transcribed from original scans by AI. Minor OCR errors may remain.
