Flying Site Assistance
Finding—Preserving—Maintaining
Joe Beshar, FSA 198 Merritt Dr., Oradell, NJ 07649 Tel: (201) 261-0223 · Fax: (201) 261-1281
The availability of flying sites remains the highest priority for practice and for the future of model aviation. The AMA has long recognized this and is taking action to address the issue by establishing a program to support the membership regarding flying-site matters. As the name implies, its purpose is to help with all flying-site activities — whether to find new flying sites or to preserve and maintain the ones we now have.
The main objectives are to communicate and assist in situations where guidance, advice, or ideas can be helpful. The vehicle to accomplish this requires a network of volunteers dispersed geographically. Volunteers will keep their eyes and ears open to goings-on in their areas — reading newspapers, watching and listening to the news — and stay in touch with their assigned regions in whatever manner necessary: politically, financially, socially, etc.
These volunteers will be connected to one point of contact at AMA, the Flying Site Assistance Coordinator. The purpose of this structure is to provide timely information that allows a proactive approach to flying-site concerns rather than a reactive one. The program is in process and its procedures will be published in the future.
Please communicate with me — write, fax, or call with your thoughts, experiences, accomplishments, successes and ideas so we can consolidate them in a joint effort for the benefit of all clubs. The best learning curve is: “This is how we did it,” or “This is how we are doing it and it works great.”
Frank Andrews of Centerville, Massachusetts, in referring to the loss of the Galeville, N.Y., flying field (in a letter to the National Free Flight Society digest) cites a successful example on Cape Cod:
“We have a flying site on Cape Cod, in Falmouth near Otis Air Force Base. It is in the Francis Crane Wildlife Conservation Area, which at one time was the Coonamsett Airport. The Crane area is administered and meticulously maintained by the Mass. State Division of Fisheries and Wildlife. This conservation area is shared harmoniously, according to the seasons, by the following groups: hikers, horseback riders, dog trainers, bird watchers, R/C flyers and free-flighters. The New England Wakefield Group has held Free Flight meets in the spring and fall for a number of years at the site.
“Crane is not without hazards, however; models do occasionally come down in the pine trees surrounding the large open area.”
Frank points out that it seems absurd that an excellent flying site like Galeville is not available for the enjoyment of free-flighters and other interest groups. He notes that in many federal agencies there exists a negative attitude toward model-airplane flying sites, likely due to lack of understanding of what model aviation offers. That attitude must be turned into a positive one through education. Model aviation — for juniors, seniors, and career-builders — has proven to be an entry to full‑scale aviation. Every AMA member should promote this positive image for a better future and to protect flying sites.
Involvement
It is most important that every AMA member commit to being involved and concerned about the need for flying fields. Promote the need during everyday activities and make consistently known the many benefits of aeromodeling. Speak up at service-club meetings, local town meetings, and political gatherings — local and federal. Promote and re-promote. You will be amazed at the cooperative relationships that can be generated.
Remember: your involvement now may save or get you a flying site. If you are an AMA member interested in serving as a Flying Site Assistance volunteer, please write, call, or fax for consideration.
— Joe Beshar, FSA
Candidate Statements
Jim Weems
My name is Jim Weems. I reside in a small community just south of Birmingham. I first joined AMA in the 1960s and became a Leader Member in December 1975. In February 1977 I became a Contest Director and R/C Scale Judge. In 1977 I helped form an AMA Air Show Team and in 1978 we gained our sanction as BAMA Flyers Air Show Team. I have served in almost every capacity on the team, including manager, and I also held the position of Giant Scale Inspector. I have met many of you in this Division because of my various functions in the AMA.
If elected to this position, I think more emphasis should be placed on the Associate Vice Presidents. Since I work full time I cannot frequently travel the region. Valuable information can be funneled through the Associate VPs. I also have very strong feelings about the conservation of our flying fields — the loss of a flying field is the loss of membership. The Associate VP could play a major role in these situations by directing information to the District VP.
I am also a strong advocate of safety. With my insurance background and my wife in the legal profession, I know what can happen when we fail to pay attention to our actions. I would appreciate your vote if you feel I could properly represent you. E-mail: jimweems@bellsouth.com
Norm (Norman) Deputy
I am Norman Deputy of Warner Robins, Georgia. I am asking for your vote to elect your representative on the AMA Executive Council and to serve the members of this district. I advocate a fresh approach and a spirit of openness in District V with improved communications as a theme for my candidacy. I support new initiatives to improve coordination between District V members, other districts, the AMA Executive Council, and HQ at Muncie. We will become the well-informed AMA district.
Our district has a very diverse and active community of modelers that deserves a dedicated representative addressing all venues of the sport. I will seek out your views and concerns and ensure they are presented to the Executive Council.
Advanced technology — the Internet and e-mail — provides a new communications vehicle that I will pursue, enabling members and clubs in this district to coordinate efficiently. I support creation of a District V web site, implemented with support from the District V VP and volunteers. This site will be the hub of communications and will publicize every modeling event and activity at no cost to chartered clubs and their members.
If elected, I intend to effectively utilize our Associate Vice Presidents as intended by the AMA bylaws: define areas of responsibility, keep the AVPs informed, and have them become proactive with chartered clubs in their assigned areas. I look forward to serving you on the Executive Council. Please visit: http://www.home.net/~gams/directv.html
— Norman Deputy
District and Officer Reports
— District VII —
#### Dave Gish (incumbent)
My first experiences with model aircraft started before WWII. I have a fairly good working knowledge of what is required of a Vice President because I took over for Don Bentfield after his death and have served since that time.
I have built and flown free flight, control line and radio control models. My first AMA number was obtained in 1943 and I have been actively involved with the AMA for the last twelve years. I have belonged to six clubs, served as president twice, and have been AVP for Iowa prior to being District VII VP.
If elected, I will not only perform the required duties but will strongly attempt to put “fun” into our hobby as its number-one requirement. I am retired now, which means I am available whenever you need me.
— District IX —
#### Russ Miller (incumbent)
Serving as District Nine VP is a delight. Getting around to district functions and meeting modelers is one of my main goals. Distance has not been a factor and will not be. I enjoy attending club functions and meeting modelers at their local flying fields.
Serving on the Executive Council is rewarding. Keeping the best interests of District Nine and the whole of AMA is always important. AMA has gone through changes that were learning experiences; the Executive Council has worked to keep the way clear for forward movement. AMA remains a viable and strong organization in delivering goods and services to the members.
I have served on the budget committee and the AMA Scholarship committee — assignments that consumed much time but where I feel I can contribute to the Academy of Model Aeronautics. I work for the betterment of the sport in any category and consider all facets of the AMA important. Whatever your interest, it is important to me. If you have problems, contact me and I will help provide solutions.
Thanks in advance for your vote and support.
— President —
#### Dave Brown (incumbent)
It is a great honor to be nominated for re-election as AMA President. In the 18 years I have served on the Executive Council, the last three as President, I have learned a lot about what it takes to be effective. The President must be able to derive consensus from a diverse group and then work with the staff, through the Executive Director, to implement policies and programs decided by the Executive Council.
Vision and perspective on problems that confront modelers in different areas are important. Equally important is having the respect and trust of Executive Council members. Without that, a President will have difficulty succeeding because the President has virtually no authority without the Council’s support.
I have worked well with both the Executive Council and the staff and have been instrumental in hiring Joyce Hager as Executive Director. I will make you one promise: I will work hard. I ask for your vote, but also ask that you consult your Vice President for his opinion — he is in the best position to assess the job I have done.
#### Richard D. Hanson
AMA #69547 — Scottsdale, Arizona.
Are we serving the needs of the membership? Are we doing the right things for the right reasons and in the right way? These are legitimate questions for every AMA member to ask. I have dedicated my time and efforts to the Academy of Model Aeronautics and seek election to the office of AMA President to help address them.
As we look to the 21st century, AMA faces challenges both internal and external. To meet them, AMA must have effective leadership, a clear focus on purpose, and a vision for the future. Our success depends on a clearly defined set of goals and objectives that serve our primary purpose of serving the membership. I offer three critical goals:
- Promote model aviation as a recognized, viable recreational activity for adults, families and youth. The success stories of aeromodeling and its contributions to communities, schools, youth programs and social welfare need to be told to neighbors, politicians and the general public.
- Develop and fulfill a National Flying Site Assistance Program geared toward acquisition, development and retention of flying sites. Without flying sites we no longer have a hobby. The problem is growing in severity and impacting areas that previously did not consider losing local fields.
- Further develop outreach programs to introduce model aviation to newcomers of all ages. Nurture and expand AMA’s educational program to reach baby boomers approaching retirement, young families, and troubled youth who can benefit from constructive activities.
I have over 30 years of aeromodeling experience. I have served as District X VP on the AMA Executive Council, am an accomplished public administrator and commercial pilot with over 6,000 hours, manage an aviation section for the State of Arizona, and have over 25 years of active duty and reserve military service, retiring as a Major in the U.S. Army.
I am prepared to tackle the problems facing AMA and ask for your support.
— Richard D. Hanson
AMA News
Noise and Flying Site Distance Considerations
To estimate the required distance between a flyover area and a neighbor’s property given AMA’s sound guideline (90 dBA at nine feet), consider the following example calculation.
Given: a model produces 90 dBA at nine feet. To determine the distance D at which the sound level is reduced by a certain amount (for example, to 50 dBA at the neighbor), use the inverse-square relationship expressed in decibels:
D = 9 ft × antilog(ΔdB / 20)
Example:
- ΔdB = 40 dB (90 dBA at 9 ft reduced to 50 dBA)
- D = 9 ft × antilog(40 / 20) = 9 ft × antilog(2) = 9 ft × 100 = 900 feet
This is for one airplane. If multiple airplanes are flying, the perceived noise level increases:
- Doubling the number of airplanes increases the neighbor’s perceived noise level by about 3 dB.
- Example progression: 1 airplane = 50 dBA; 2 airplanes ≈ 53 dBA; 4 airplanes ≈ 56 dBA; 8 airplanes ≈ 59 dBA.
Because multiple models are likely to be scattered at varying distances, a reasonable planning basis is two airplanes. Assuming two airplanes requires further reduction in level (or increased separation) to meet the same neighbor‑noise objective.
To meet reasonable assurance that a field will not pose a noise problem:
- The flyover area should be no closer than approximately 1,300 feet from the nearest neighbor’s property line (using AMA guidelines and conservative assumptions).
- All airplanes should meet the AMA guideline of 90 dBA at nine feet.
- A further analysis should determine the maximum number of airplanes allowed to fly at the same time.
Clubs might adopt sound limits lower than the AMA guideline (90 dBA at nine feet); in that case, plug the chosen limit into the formula to determine required distances. This analysis gives an idea of the real estate required to establish a field that will not lead to quarrels with neighbors.
Leader Member Survey and Leader Clubs
LEADER MEMBER SURVEY: A few months ago a survey was mailed to all leader members. Out of 3,599 questionnaires mailed, only 239 were returned. There were only 5 returns from District I. This suggests either apathy or lack of understanding of the survey’s importance. Those who responded will have a chance to be a more direct part of the decision-making process.
LEADER CLUBS: The following clubs achieved Leader Club status for 1998. Congratulations to all members for their hard work:
- Rhode Island Aeromodelers
- Northbridge Radio Control Aeromodelers
- New England Sport Scale Association
- Quinpoxet Model Flying Club
- Cape Ann R/C Model Club
- East Coast Swamp Flyers
- Propsnappers R/C Club
- 107th R/C Flyers
The remainder of the column will be devoted to pictures and captions submitted by readers. More will appear in future columns.
District II Report
New Jersey / New York / Europe Wes De Cou, Vice President 85 Riverside Drive, Basking Ridge, NJ 07920-1308 Eve: (908) 221-1666 · Fax: (908) 221-9297 · decou@idt.net
Associate Vice Presidents:
- Dave Babcock, 445 Stockton Street, Hightstown, NJ 08520-4501
- Roy A. Brown, USAF AFSC/EMF 4600 BOX 380 APO AE 09470
- Ray Juchniewicz, 59 Livingston Street, St. James, NY 11780
- James E. Lewis, P.O. Box 61, Ogdensburg, NY 13669-0061
- Bob McKay, 109 W. Edwards St., Iselin, NJ 08830
- Dave Mathewson, Box 613, Camillus, NY 13031
- Tom Murray, 31 Voorhees Drive, Basking Ridge, NJ 07920
- Marion Hildebrand, 307 Willow Street, Lockport, NY 14094
- Bill Porterhouse, 2 Havelock Court, Smithtown, NY 11787
- Adam Sartell, 41 Ferry Avenue, Latham, NY 12110-2423
- Terry Terreniero, 101 Smithfield Dr., Endicott, NY 13760-4239
Frequency Coordinator:
- Lon Sauter, 53 Airport Dr., Oswego County Airport, Fulton, NY 13069 · (315) 598-0609
July was a great month for airshow activity throughout the district. AVPs Marlene Nikodem and Bob McKay provided input, as did Ocean County Modelers member Thom Lamborn. Pictures and captions from events include:
- Jim and “Coo” Clarkson traveled from California to watch the Scale Rally put on by the Southern Tier Aero Radio Society (STARS) at Olean, NY.
- Kip Karn, Kirby Oldham, and Gary Fitch kept the STARS rally moving.
- Ron Saporito’s B-24 at the STARS rally.
- STARS CD Jim Goodemote ensured participants and spectators had an enjoyable time.
- On July 25, the Oneonta RC Flyers held a scale fly-in directed by Don Corbett.
- Gardner Spencer attended from Bennington, VT, with a 30-year-old Nosen Gere Sport purchased at a previous STARS auction.
- Nick and Janet Ziroli prepared the Spirit of St. Louis for flight.
- On June 13, Ocean County Modelers held their annual Navy Relief Fun Fly-in and donated $500 to the fund despite reduced attendance due to weather. Cleve Laswell and Jack Rudy’s Gere Sport (dressed as a Stearman) were featured; Danny Ditursi provided buddy-box time to Nick Morizio.
- July 19 found AVP Marlene Nikodem at the Geneseo Free Flight contest. Don Srull displayed his six-motor, twelve-prop Dornier DO-X. Jane Smith attended from England with a Mustang she built two years ago.
District III Report
Ohio / Pennsylvania / West Virginia Bob Brown, Vice President 35 Sanford Street, Bradford, PA 16701 · (814) 368-7655 · amadiv3@penn.com
Where did the summer go? Now is the time to begin your projects and club preparations for next year. One of the most frequently asked questions is “What can we do to make our event worthwhile?” The answer: preplan and execute the plan within the established timeline. Don’t wait until it is too late.
ELECTIONS: This year is your chance to express your desires for the direction of the Academy by casting your vote for the presidential candidate of choice. Read the candidates’ statements and follow the directions on your ballot so your vote will be counted.
SANCTIONS: We are looking at a revision to the sanction system. Many events do not fit the current class system. Protection for some events is extreme while others have inadequate protection. If you have suggestions, please advise your District Vice President.
DISTRICT III MODELERS IN ACTION: (Photos and captions available in the original column.)
District IV Report
Delaware / District of Columbia / Maryland / North Carolina / Virginia Chuck Foreman, Vice President 412 Pine Cone Ct., Kill Devil Hills, NC 27948 · (252) 441-5855 · Fax: (252) 441-6554 · cforeman@modelaircraft.org
Associate Vice Presidents:
- George Abbott, 8712 Westlake Court, Raleigh, NC 27613 · Home: (919) 848-6719 · GAbbott462@aol.com
- Robert E. Babura, 117 Otis Dr., Severna Park, MD 21144-1130 · Home: (410) 969-9356 · babura@juno.com
- Randy Elliott, 103 Virginia Court, Pulaski, VA 24301 · Home: (540) 980-8461 · Office: (540) 994-2316
- Steve Moulton, 2217 Johnstown Rd., Chesapeake, VA 23322 · Home: (757) 421-4545 · Office: (757) 431-6099 · moulton@mdspring.com
- Richard (Dick) Smith, 761 Gwynne Ave., Waynesboro, VA 22980-3346 · Home: (540) 943-1684 · ffvrs@aol.com
- John Stare, 826 Marl Pit Rd., Middletown, DE 19709 · Home: (302) 376-7154 · vrcs32@aol.com
- Bliss Teague, 625 5th Ave. SW, Hickory, NC 28602 · Home: (828) 324-2164 · Office: (828) 733-9228 · blissteague@corninc.com
Frequency Coordinator:
- Paul Yacobucci, 6408 Winthrop Dr., Fayetteville, NC 28311-1007 · (910) 488-5986 (evening)
#### Roanoke Valley R/C Club
Roanoke Valley Governors School Update: Classes are complete for the year and 33 students have summer work to prepare them for hands-on sessions next fall. Bill Saunders is doing a wonderful job teaching aeronautical engineering basics. RVRC approved spending $300 to provide RVGS with two Airstar 40 planes for training. David Yeager is completing the first and it will be available to RVGS students for summer use. If interest continues, a second will be built. RVRC is assembling a training program for RVGS summer flying; contact Marshall McClung to help instruct.
AMA awarded RVGS a $750 grant through its Youth Education Stipend program, which will boost the underfunded program due to increased enrollment.
#### Spring Fun Fly Held
Richmond Area Radio Control Club held its annual Spring Fun Fly on May 17. Participants included members of Richmond Area and Mid Virginia R/C Clubs. Winners included Andy Hammer, Craig Brown, Fred Copper, John Gausby and Kevin Seeber.
#### MVRC FC-1B Event
Mid-Virginia R/C held a Spring FC-1B Fun Fly on May 30 at their field on Fort Lee property. Nineteen pilots entered events such as maximum loops in one minute, climb and glide, spot landing, balloon bust, and limbo. Fred Copper won with his original FC-1B design.
#### Bob Babura, AVP Maryland
The Chesapeake Bay R/C Club held a neighborhood appreciation day on May 15. Weather was questionable, but many locals attended and enjoyed instructional flying. The Maryland Department of Natural Resources, the club’s landlord, attended with a helicopter.
#### Fredericksburg Aeromasters MAC
Congratulations to the Fredericksburg Aeromasters Model Airplane Club for receiving a plaque from AMA for five consecutive years as a Gold Leader Club.
That's it for this month. Take time to be friendly — it is the road to happiness. Go take a kid flying.
Transcribed from original scans by AI. Minor OCR errors may remain.
