AMA News

1977 HALL OF FAME AWARDS

Under joint sponsorship of the Washington State Air National Guard and the Academy of Model Aeronautics, the Model Aviation Hall of Fame made nine awards from the beginning of the program in 1969 through 1971. AMA then took over sole responsibility for the program in 1972. Since that time AMA's Council of Past Presidents has served as the Hall of Fame Selection Committee, with Walt Good—himself a Hall of Famer—as chairman.

Objectives are to recognize candidates from out of the past as well as currently deserving candidates. Thus, the Hall of Fame considers candidates of all ages and from all periods of activity. The past AMA presidents are uniquely qualified to fulfill these objectives, since many are themselves aeromodeling pioneers and present-day leaders.

Most AMA presidents could qualify for the Hall of Fame. Five have been so honored. But no past president may vote for himself and, as a group, they consider only nominations from other sources. The current committee includes the following members, with dates of AMA presidency: Irwin G. Ohlsson, 1943-46; C. O. Wright, 1948-49; Kenneth G. Held, 1950-51; Frank B. Bushey, 1952; Keith H. Storey, 1953-56; Claude McCullough, 1957; Dr. Walter A. Good, 1958-60; Peter J. Sotich, 1961-62; John Worth, 1963; Maynard L. Hill, 1964; Clifford G. Weirick, 1967-68; John E. Patton, 1969-70; John E. Clemens, 1971-77.

There were 20 nominations in 1977 for the Hall of Fame. The selection committee narrowed them down to five, as per normal balloting procedures. Description of the winners follows. (Anyone who would like to submit a nomination for 1978 should request an application from AMA Headquarters and submit same before next April 30.)

THE HALL OF FAME ROSTER

1976: Merrill Hamburg, Henry Struck, Frank Ehling, Harold deBolt, Chester Lanzo.

1975: Irwin G. Ohlsson, C. O. Wright, Walt Schroder, Jim Kirkland (deceased), Lt. Harold W. "John" Alden (deceased).

1974: W. L. "Bill" Brown, W. R. Enyart (deceased), Irwin Nathan Polk, Sal Taibi.

1973: O. C. Randall (deceased).

1972: Howard McEntee (deceased).

1970: Dick Korda, Al Lewis (deceased), Bill Winter.

1969: Walt Billett (deceased), Willis Brown (deceased), Carl Goldberg, Walt Good, Jim Walker (deceased) and Frank Zaic. John W. Brodbeck, age 62, is the "B" of K & B Manufacturing Company in Downey, California. He is a pioneer in model powerplant development, a dedicated modeler, and a supporter of AMA, as well as a Nats sponsor of long standing.

John was a West Coast "Admiral" in the 8-Ball Club, originally a fund raising organization formed to meet the AMA financial deficits during the 50's and 60's. He directed the annual Far East championships in Japan for the U.S. Air Force from 1956 through 1970, from which winners were brought to the U.S. to compete in the AMA Nationals.

His company is one of very few American engine manufacturers to remain in business by meeting foreign competition in performance and price—K & B Engines have powered championship-winning models for many years since his pioneering engine designs in the 1930's. Brodbeck's infant engine of the 40's made small models practical at a price youngsters could afford and was influential in attracting untold thousands of newcomers to model aviation.

He initiated an engine repair service at major contests, free of charge to contestants. This has permitted many competitors to win championships where they may have otherwise been unable to continue competition.

Betty Stream of the BIRDS Club, endorsing Dick Tichenor's nomination of Brodbeck said: "John Brodbeck has been overlooked for too long a period of time. He has been active as a Nationals sponsor, and in HIA and in SCHIA (national and local hobby industry associations). He has been a real friend to modelers all over the world, but here in Southern California he is revered and respected—always ready to help in any and all activities, including donations, programs for clubs and support of contest activities. John is a wonderful person as well as an integral and important part of modeling, past and present."

Johnny Brodbeck's nomination to the Hall of Fame was a popular choice, supported by many people. His election makes official what was regarded as his natural place in modeling history.

Maynard L. Hill has been an internationally known aeromodeler for more than 25 years. He is a past president of DC/RC, the Pittsburgh Flying Circuits and the Monroeville (PA) MAC. He served as AMA President in 1964.

Maynard's service to aeromodeling included 15 years' work in many responsibilities in the Federation Aeronautique Internationale, including chairmanship of the RC Subcommittee, chief instructor for RC judging (including authorship of the FAI Judges Guide) and was Contest Manager for the 1971 RC Aerobatic World Championships in Doylestown, PA. He also served as Assistant RC Director at the 1968 National Championships.

Hill's technical contributions are too extensive to describe adequately in this space. They include research and development in control systems, model structures, fuels, glow plugs, thermal sensors, antennae, aerodynamics and model use for meteorological studies. He is recently famous for invention of an electrostatic autopilot for both model and full scale aviation.

His honors include an AMA Fellowship, FAI awards, numerous AMA club tributes and the AMA Distinguished Service Award.

As a writer, Hill has been published extensively in the model press, Popular Mechanics, Popular Science and many technical and scholarly journals as a result of his work with the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory where he is a metallurgist and specialist in remotely piloted vehicles. In addition to Maynard's technical contributions which have done much to advance the state of our hobby, his ability as a writer and a public speaker have contributed to the sharing of his accomplishments with others for the benefit of model aviation at all levels.

Hill is probably best known for the many world records he holds. Each one required weeks and even months of preparation, adding up to 13 times that the United States, the Academy of Model Aeronautics and Maynard Hill have been recognized at the world level for outstanding accomplishment. The record flights were in many categories of radio control, altitude (over 20,000 feet!), speed, duration, distance; powered and glider, land and seaplanes.

His invention of the electrostatic autopilot, along with other developments in the field of RPV's (remotely piloted vehicles) in nationally recognized scientific journals has done much to raise the status of model aviation among military, government, and civilian aeronautical agencies.

Maynard Hill has made it easier for all modelers to fly—his efforts have resulted in a good public image for aeromodeling which have received extensive and favorable publicity. It has been good for him and for the activity as a whole—he fits comfortably in the Hall of Fame and is qualified many times over.

Bert Pond (Bertram P.), age 74, has been an active aeromodeler for nearly 60 years. His long span of activity is unique. From the Illinois Model Aero Club of 1916 to the Pioneer Valley RC Club of 1976 (in New England), Pond's involvement has been continuous. His achievements and distinctions are many: world record holder, writer, designer, manufacturer, Contest Director, historian, competitor. However, his greatest contribution to model aeronautics was his efforts in leading and organizing during the early years, particularly his role in helping organize contests which were national in scope.

In 1923 Bert Pond accompanied a contingent of model airplane fliers from Chicago to St. Louis with the sole purpose of persuading the St. Louis Air Board to include in the National Air Races a "Model Airplane Race." After several days of energetic contact with the then new National Aeronautic Association by telephone, the model airplane event was included.

This was the first time NAA involved itself in models, and the 1923 National Air Races is viewed today as the very first "Nats" by NAA's affiliate—the Academy of Model Aeronautics. Thus Bert Pond participated in and made substantial contributions to the beginning of the first national championships for model aircraft. Even more important, historically, was the basic decision by NAA to involve itself in model airplanes. This eventually resulted in the beginning of AMA.

Bert Pond is a retired Air Force Reserve Lt. Colonel, a professional engineer currently working on the Space Shuttle Program. He has manufactured and sold model airplane components through the years and he has published extensively—his Free Flight designs have had a profound and lasting influence on rubber outdoor models. His national Rubber-Powered Free Flight records include: Indoor

THE MODEL AVIATION HALL OF FAME

How to make Nominations for 1978

Because it is not generally realized that everyone is invited to make nominations, in this case for 1978, with an early deadline of April 30, the following information is compiled for your convenience. Note that the instructions below advise that information is to be presented on a Nomination Form, available by writing AMA Headquarters.

Purpose: The Model Aviation Hall of Fame has been established to recognize aeromodellers who have made outstanding contributions to model aviation over the years, their contributions having improved the hobby and increased its prestige and stature. Each year several modelers are selected as members of the Model Aviation Hall of Fame. The selection is based on the individuals' contributions to model aviation as a competitor, designer, experimenter, leader, organizer, Contest Director, writer, publisher, manufacturer—and other related activities. The emphasis is on the accumulated contribution in one or more of these categories over a period of years. The program is operated by the Academy of Model Aeronautics and by the Hall of Fame Selection Committee, which is the Council of Past AMA Presidents, whose accumulated knowledge of American aeromodelling and aeromodellers is unparalleled.

Eligibility: A person is eligible for nomination to the Hall of Fame if he is:

1. A modeler who has made the kinds of contributions listed above.
2. A U.S. citizen.
3. An AMA or non-AMA member.
4. Living or deceased.
5. Nominated by the submission of a nomination form by a sponsor who knows of his contributions.

Mechanism of Nomination: A sponsor should submit a nomination form to AMA HQ—Model Aviation Hall of Fame prior to April 30, 1978. Forms are available from AMA HQ. Nominations may be submitted by any person, club or organization in the U.S.A.

Selection:

1. Each year the Hall of Fame Committee, composed of the Council of Past AMA Presidents, will select five Hall of Fame recipients from the nominations which have been submitted. At least three of the recipients must be living.

1. Announcements and presentations of the Hall of Fame Awards will be made at appropriate model aviation occasions during the remainder of the year.

Under joint sponsorship of the Washington State Air National Guard and the Academy of Model Aeronautics, the Model Aviation Hall of Fame made nine awards beginning with the program 1969 through 1971. AMA took over sole responsibility for the program in 1972. Since that time AMA’s Council of Past Presidents has served as the Hall of Fame Selection Committee. Walt Good, himself a Hall of Famer, was chairman.

Objectives are to recognize candidates judged outstanding in the past as well as currently deserving candidates. Thus the Hall of Fame considers candidates of all ages and periods of activity. Past AMA presidents are uniquely qualified to fulfill the objectives since they themselves are aeromodeling pioneers and present-day leaders. Most AMA presidents could qualify for the Hall of Fame. Five have been honored. No past president may vote for himself. The group considers nominations from other sources. The current committee includes the following members (dates AMA presidency):

Irwin G. Ohisson 1943-46 C. O. Wright 1948-49 Kenneth G. Held 1950-51 Frank B. Bushey 1952 Keith H. Storey 1953-56 Claude McCullough 1957 Dr. Walter Good 1958-60 Peter J. Sotich 1961-62 John Worth 1963 Maynard L. Hill 1964 Clifford G. Weirick 1967-68 John E. Patton 1969-70 John E. Clemens 1971-77

In 1977 the Hall of Fame selection committee narrowed down twenty nominations to five, per normal balloting procedures. Description of the winners follows. Anyone who would like to submit a nomination for 1978 should request an application from AMA Headquarters and submit same before April 30.

THE HALL OF FAME ROSTER

1976 — Merrill Hamburg; Henry Struck; Frank Ehling; Harold DeBolt; Chester Lanzo 1975 — Irwin G. Ohisson; C. O. Wright; Walt Schroder; Jim Kirkland (deceased); Lt. Harold W. John Alden (deceased) 1974 — W. L. Bill Brown; W. R. Enyart (deceased); Irwin Nathan Polk; Sal Taibi 1973 — O. C. Randall (deceased) 1972 — Howard McEntee (deceased) 1970 — Dick Korda; Al Lewis (deceased); Bill Winter 1969 — Walt Billett (deceased); Willis Brown (deceased); Carl Goldberg; Walt Good; Jim Walker (deceased); Frank Zaic

John W. Brodbeck, age 62, B & B Manufacturing Company, Downey, California — pioneer in model powerplant development, a dedicated modeler, supporter of AMA, and long-time sponsor of the Nats. John, a West Coast Admiral of the 8-Ball Club, originally was in a fund-raising organization formed to meet AMA financial deficits during the 1950s and 1960s. He directed annual Far East championships in Japan and with the U.S. Air Force from 1956 through 1970, bringing winners to the U.S. to compete in AMA Nationals. Very few American engine manufacturers remain in business meeting foreign competition in performance and price. K & B engines have powered championship-winning models for years since their pioneering engine designs of the 1930s. Brodbeck’s infant engine of the 1940s made small models practical and affordable for youngsters, attracting untold thousands of newcomers to model aviation. He initiated engine repair service at major contests free of charge to contestants, permitting competitors to win championships who might otherwise have been unable to continue competing. Endorsed by the BIRDS Club and Dick Tichenor’s nomination, Brodbeck has been a real friend to modelers around the world and to the Southern California hobby industry. He is revered and respected, always ready to help with activities including donations to programs, club support and contest activities. John is a wonderful person and a vital, important part of modeling past and present.

Maynard L. Hill has been an internationally known aeromodeler for 25 years. He served as president of the DCIRC (Pittsburgh Flying Circuits and Monroeville PA MAC) and served as AMA President in 1964. Maynard’s service to aeromodeling included 15 years of work with responsibilities in the Fédération Aéronautique Internationale, including the chairmanship of the RC Subcommittee.

WHERE DOES MODELING END—AND ART START?

The newsletter, "WING TIPS," which Editor E. R. Van Gorder sends me from the MID-HUDSON (N.Y.) MODEL MASTERS has a report from that club's new president, JIM "CRASH" BAKER. Seems like "Crash" made a wire-art picture of an airplane (Barnstormer by Ship Shop, kit 2603, at your hobby shop) and is very impressed with it. It measures 16" x 24" and is great for the model airplane enthusiast. But I think it only fair to warn "Crash" that THE DARN THINGS WON'T FLY! Seems like nobody has figured out how to put the covering on them.

Come to think of it, I have re-built some crack-ups that ended up looking pretty much like wire-art!

WHAT ONE CLUB IS BASED ON—

RICHARD GARDNER sent me Volume 1, Number 1 of a brand new newsletter. I particularly enjoyed and admired the declaration of just "what their club is," as spelled out in the news-sheet. They say—

"The COWTOWN (Ft. Worth, TX) CIRCLE BURNERS are a non-profit, special interest group, of Control Line Model Airplane Builders and Flyers of all ages. The objective of the club is to promote the hobby/sport of building and flying Control Line model planes. To hold meetings, Flying, Workshop, and Formal Business. To organize competitions. TO HELP THE BEGINNER avoid the costly mistakes that the more experienced builder and flyer has already suffered.

It is a FUN CLUB, with special emphasis placed on ALL MEMBERS WORKING TOGETHER. Helping each other progress up the ladder, even to National and International Competition."

I copied this statement from newsletter editor Gardner's paper because EVERY CLUB OR SPECIAL INTEREST GROUP should have a visible declaration of just what they stand for and are dedicated to shoulder responsibilities for. YOUR GROUP?

ISN'T THIS THE WAY IT IS?

Three guys in a rowboat—one guy baling like hell—and the other two saying to each other, "Sure glad the hole isn't in our end of the boat!"

SAFETY IS REALLY THE BEST INSURANCE!!

OH COME NOW! Honest, Your Honor, I didn't steal it! I was talking on my "CB" rig and his radio controlled model plane simply followed me home!

I THOUGHT A LONG TIME—

There was this sign in a filling station—"FRIENDLY SELF SERVICE!" That sort of goes back to one of the real truths of life—GOD HELPS THEM THAT HELP THEMSELVES!

PRIVATE PILOT—PREFERS MODELS!!

A letter from Iowa says, "I am a private pilot with about 2,000 hours of single and multi-engine and helicopter, but I must say truthfully I get a H— of a lot more enjoyment out of flying model planes than the 'people-carrying' kind!" This fellow who "knows what he likes" is NOAH STALEY who enclosed a cheerful and friendly three-page letter with the newsletter of the ATLANTIC (Iowa) HAWKS R/C CLUB. Atlantic is a town of 7,000 folks between Omaha and Des Moines. They have 22 ACTIVE MEMBERS from 13 years old to 65. That shows that old "help yourself" attitude and especially when you learn that their City Council, Airport Commission, and Airport Manager have provided a nice flying site off the end of an inactive 5,000 foot runway. These "city fathers" have been very wise because this way they know where the modelers are and have a far better safety control.

Please be reminded that sites like this don't "just happen!" You gotta go after them! And NO ONE ELSE has any obligation to obtain your flying site for you. Go after it, and don't give up when someone says, "NO." You and your group are certainly as deserving as golfers, tennis enthusiasts, swimmers, and soccer or baseball players.

THAT GREAT FEELING—HELPING SOMEONE

I work very devotedly at helping to guide our young folks. At my age one of the greatest thrills is to have one of today's young folks say sincerely, "SURE NICE TALKING TO YOU!"

YOU'VE PROBABLY NOTICED TOO—

In AMA—the magic thread of friendship runs clear to the top!

BUT EVEN WITH OUR SUPERIOR SPIRIT—

Some people must think that I am a mushroom! They try to keep me in the dark—and feed me lots of manure!

JUST A PERSONAL OBSERVATION

Have you ever noticed—people who need love the most are the ones who usually deserve it the least!

A REALLY GREAT NEWSLETTER!

Several paragraphs back I mentioned ATLANTIC, IOWA. It is a town of 7,000. Now about 70 miles outside the town of Atlantic is a community of from 180,000 to 200,000 known as DES MOINES. The Des Moines MODELAIRES are one of the most active AMA chartered clubs in the middle of our country, and always seem to be blessed with excellent leadership. This time I am impressed by the handiwork of their newsletter editor, ROGER BOCOX, in putting out their news sheet, "THE BALSA BUSTER." The new style he is using in Volume V, number 11, is beautiful, and the most readable from the standpoints of style and size of the type used and the editorial content that I've seen lately. Bravo, Roger!

Roger has printed the hilarious tale (or tail) of "THE FAMOUS CAT-AND-DUCK METHOD OF FLYING IN CLOUDS" in this issue. That, along with his winter safety rules and cartoons, makes the issue you should have if it is available. I may be sticking Roger Bocox's neck out farther than he'd like, but perhaps he has some copies left over, or perhaps if he gets enough requests he can run some reprints. BUT DON'T BOTHER HIM unless you intend to EXCHANGE newsletters. And if you do write be sure to extend the courtesy of a self-addressed stamped envelope. Write him, ROGER E. BOCOX, 3806 Richmond, Des Moines, IA 50317.

A sample of his newsletter follows. "By letting your wife help with your hobby as much as possible during these cold winter months, you can accomplish many good things. Some are:

A. You and your wife become closer.

B. The quality of your models might be improved.

C. Your wife may even get interested enough to consider getting into the hobby herself. NOTE: This theory has one bad draw-

back. You may have to stay home on Saturdays during the summer and watch the kids while your wife is out flying."

MORE NEWS FROM IOWA!

BERNIE DE BOER is the editor of the newsletter of the SIOUX LAND R/C MODELERS of Sioux City, Iowa. Bernie also puts out a pretty "salty" newsletter, with lots of humor and bits of philosophy. He has a couple of items in his "wanted" column that will ring a bell with all of us. I quote—

WANTED. Responsible club desires to rent model flying field. Must be warm and sunny—preferably with winds below 10 mph. Location not critical as long as field is within one-half mile of every member's home.

WANTED. New Members—if each member could sign up two additional members we would soon be—IN TROUBLE! Where would we meet??

One of Bernie's bits of philosophy tickles me. Maybe it is FOR me. The quote is as follows: A CLOSED MOUTH GATHERS NO FOOT!

WOULD YA BELIEVE??

My "spy system" reported that during the past competition flying season things got so intense that DEATH THREATS were received by 16 of our top fliers!!—All of them were from wives!

HERE IS SOME OF THAT GREAT, GREAT, GREAT, AMA SPIRIT! OUR YOUNGEST MEMBER!!!

Yesterday's mail brought what I am sure is an application for membership from our YOUNGEST EVER applicant. STEPHEN RYAN CHOATE was born at 6:52 AM on January 22, 1978. At EXACTLY 7:58 AM of that same morning an application for membership in AMA was put in the mail, along with a check for the proper amount of dues. That means that the application was officially in the mail and on the way to AMA Headquarters when little Stephen was only 66 MINUTES OLD (or perhaps younger!) Stephen's father, ROY CHOATE, says that the 66 minute delay was because he had to change out of a hospital scrub suit, take some pictures, and write to me. I FEEL VERY FLATTERED because the baby was only 48 minutes old when Roy wrote to me. GEE! Think how many years Stephen can be an AMA member!!!

I must read you the first paragraph of this new father's letter.

Roy Choate says, "I have just experienced the most wonderful thing in my life. We have had three other children prior to this one, but this is the first time I have been allowed to watch the delivery. My wife was awake during the delivery, because the first time she had gotten to see one of her babies born. It was a great thrill for both of us and will never regret. It is an experience I would highly recommend for any father—but only if the mother wants it that way."

That paragraph shows a great respect for the miracle and beauty of life—and shows a real love and togetherness. Roy's letter and the application for Stephen's membership in AMA and the principles and philosophy that AMA stands for. Proving Roy's feeling, please, ALL AMAS JOIN ME IN PRAYERS AND THE BEST WISHES for these fine folks.

P.S. I can prove that Roy was really excited. He forgot to tell us the wife's first name! But we all love you, MRS. CHOATE!

*****all for now*****

AMA News

Hall of Fame (Cont. from pg. 60)

and Outdoor in 1921, and Twin Pusher Hydro in 1922. He has worked at National Contests since 1933—his latest contribution was at the 1975 Nats.

Peter J. Sotich, age 51, was president of the AMA (1961-1962), one of the founders of the National Free Flight Society, president of Illinois Model Airplane Club. He was twice U.S. FAI Free Flight team manager and served as Free Flight Category Director and/or Manager of the National Model Airplane Championships for many years; he is also a long time member of the Nats Executive Committee.

Pete is best known for the many contests he directed through the years, especially in AMA's Free Flight Team Selection Programs. He was named Contest Director of the Year at least once and would have won that title many times over except that this form of recognition was dropped—some say because Pete would have won it every time!

Pete's giving of himself for others was all the more remarkable because he was not a modeler. But he had hundreds of modeler friends, and his brother, Charlie, is one of the top model competitors in the country.

With his naming to Model Aviation's Hall of Fame, Pete Sotich has won just about every honor in the field. He is an AMA Fellow and a winner of both the AMA Distinguished and Superior Service Awards.

Until his retirement from model aviation activities a few years ago Pete could be seen working at every Nats and at practically every Free Flight contest held at Bong Field, Wisconsin. Pete was also a contest official for the Free Flight World Championships held in the U.S. in 1954, Germany during 1955 and again in Germany in 1961. In that latter event Sotich had the honorary title of Director of the Competition.

Pete didn't always agree with many of the rules he had to enforce at contests, nor was he happy with those in charge of Nats planning. But Pete went by the book—whatever was official he lived by and gave his best. He did so with friendliness and good cheer so that modelers regarded him as their friend even though he was part of the "big brass."

Since his retirement Pete has gone underground and is no longer seen around the people and events he was part of for so many years. But he is well remembered, and everyone who knew him agrees that he belongs in the Hall of Fame. He earned it.

Ken Willard, age 64, is nationally known for his RC designs through the years along with his "Sunday Flying" column in RC Modeler magazine. Some of his designs which were kitted include the "School" series (School Boy, Girl, Master, etc.); also the Roaring 20, Top Dawg, Wavemaster and Santa Anna.

He also holds a 1940 Control Line patent, developed a "kick-up" elevator and quick-blip motor control for RC, and has done extensive research in Free Flight and RC seaplane step locations, as well as experiments in sailplane wing efficiency.

Willard helped organize the League of Silent Flight and the South Bay Soaring Society (California). He was president of the Los Angeles LARKS and chairman of the LARKS' Fund Drive for the Los Angeles Model Airport. He also contributed to the design and layout of the Model Airport, working with the Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks and the L.A. Model Hobby Association.

Some of his other contributions include: an unofficial AMA world endurance record for indoor seaplanes, world's smallest RC model (1962), first cross-channel RC model flight from California to Catalina Island (1957), and the world's largest RC plane using sport RC equipment (1972). He was a pilot for two U.S. Department of Defense contractors for RPVs from 1972 to 1976, providing one with a basic design used for airborne real time TV transmission.

Ken, like his fellow Hall of Famer Maynard Hill, is one of those who has been instrumental in gaining appreciation from aeronautical scientists and engineers for the capability of model aircraft in research programs. He has thus done much to gain professional respect for model aviation as an adult activity. And the Hall of Fame gains respect from his addition to the roster.

HALL OF FAME AWARDS

John W. Brodbeck, age 62. B & K Manufacturing Company, Downey, California — pioneer in model powerplant development; dedicated modeler; supporter of AMA; well-known Nats sponsor. Long-time West Coast Admiral 8-Ball Club member. Originally a fund-raising organization formed to meet AMA financial deficits during the '50s and '60s, directed annual Far East championships in Japan; U.S. Air Force 1956 through 1970 winners were brought to the U.S. to compete in AMA Nationals. With very few American engine manufacturers remaining in business meeting foreign competition in performance and price, K & B Engines have powered championship-winning models for years since their pioneering engine designs of the 1930s. Brodbeck's infant engine in the '40s made small models practical at a price youngsters could afford, influential in attracting untold thousands of newcomers to model aviation. He initiated engine repair service at major contests free of charge to contestants, which has permitted competitors to win championships who may have otherwise been unable to continue competition. Betty Streem, BIRDS Club, endorsing Dick Tichenor's nomination, said John Brodbeck has been overlooked too long. For a period of time he has been an active Nationals sponsor. HIA, SCHIA, national and local hobby industry associations have a real friend in him. Southern California revered, respected—always ready to help activities including donations, programs, club support and contest activities. John is a wonderful person, well integral and an important part of modeling past and present. Johnny Brodbeck's nomination to the Hall of Fame was a popular choice supported by people; the election makes official what is regarded a natural place in modeling history.

Maynard L. Hill has been an internationally known aeromodeler for 25 years. Past president, D.C. R/C, Pittsburgh Flying Circuits and Monroeville, PA MAC; served as AMA President in 1964. Maynard's service to aeromodeling included 15 years' work and responsibilities with the Fédération Aéronautique Internationale, including chairmanship, RC Subcommittee chief. John W. Brodbeck, age 62. B K & B Manufacturing Company, Downey, California, pioneer in model powerplant development; dedicated modeler; supporter of AMA and long‑standing Nationals sponsor. John, West Coast Admiral 8‑Ball Club (originally a fund‑raising organization formed to meet AMA financial deficits during the ’50s and ’60s), directed annual Far East championships (Japan) for the U.S. Air Force 1956 through 1970, winners brought to compete at AMA Nationals. With very few American engine manufacturers remaining in business meeting foreign competition in performance and price, K & B engines have powered championship‑winning models for years since the pioneering engine designs of the 1930s. Brodbeck’s infant engine of the 1940s made small models practical at prices youngsters could afford, influencing and attracting untold thousands of newcomers to model aviation. He initiated engine repair service at major contests free of charge to contestants, which has permitted competitors to win championships who may have otherwise been unable to continue competition. Betty Streem, BIRDS Club, endorsing Dick Tichenor’s nomination, said John Brodbeck has been overlooked too long. For a period of time he has been an active Nationals sponsor. HIA, SCHIA, national and local hobby industry associations have a real friend in him. Southern California revered and respected — always ready to help with activities including donations, programs, club support and contest activities. John is a wonderful person, well integral and an important part of modeling past and present. Johnny Brodbeck’s nomination to the Hall of Fame was a popular choice supported by people; the election makes official what is regarded a natural place in modeling history. I can do this accurately, but the page image you provided is too small and low‑resolution for a reliable, verbatim transcription of the continuation of the "AMA News" Hall of Fame text. To avoid introducing errors or inventing missing words, please provide a higher‑resolution scan or a closeup crop of the article area that follows the paragraph you already gave (the paragraph ending with "Johnny Brodbeck’s nomination to the Hall of Fame was a popular choice...").

What I need from you (one of these):

• A higher-resolution (preferably 300+ DPI) scan of this page, or
• A cropped image that includes the column/area immediately below the last paragraph you provided (the Hall of Fame continuation), large enough so the text is clearly legible.

If you can’t provide a better image, I can attempt a best-effort transcription from the current image, but I may have to flag uncertain words or leave gaps rather than risk incorrect text. Which would you prefer? Maynard L. Hill has been an internationally known aeromodeler for 25 years. A past president of DCIRC (Pittsburgh Flying Circuits) and Monroeville, PA MAC, he served as AMA President in 1964. Maynard's service to aeromodeling included 15 years of work and responsibilities with the Federation Aeronautique Internationale, including chairmanship of the RC Subcommittee.

Anyone who would like to submit a nomination for 1978 should request an application from AMA Headquarters and submit same before next April 30.

THE HALL OF FAME ROSTER

1976

• Merrill Hamburg
• Henry Struck
• Frank Ehling
• Harold deBolt
• Chester Lanzo

1975

• Irwin G. Ohlsson
• C. O. Wright
• Walt Schroder
• Jim Kirkland (deceased)
• Lt. Harold W. John Alden (deceased)

1974

• W. L. Bill Brown
• W. R. Enyart (deceased)
• Irwin Nathan Polk
• Sal Taibi

1973

• O. C. Randall (deceased)

1972

• Howard McEntee (deceased)

1970

• Dick Korda
• Al Lewis (deceased)
• Bill Winter

1969

• Walt Billett (deceased)
• Willis Brown (deceased)
• Carl Goldberg
• Walt Good
• Jim Walker (deceased)
• Frank Zaic

HALL OF FAME AWARDS

John W. Brodbeck age 62 B & B Manufacturing Company, Downey, California, pioneer, model powerplant development, dedicated modeler, supporter of AMA, well‑known Nats sponsor long standing. John, West Coast Admiral 8‑Ball Club, originally a fund‑raising organization formed to meet AMA financial deficits during the ’50s and ’60s, directed annual Far East championships (Japan) and, with the U.S. Air Force from 1956 through 1970, brought winners to compete at the AMA Nationals. With very few American engine manufacturers remaining in business because of foreign competition on performance and price, K & B engines have powered championship‑winning models for years since their pioneering engine designs of the 1930s. Brodbeck’s infant engines of the 1940s made small models practical and inexpensive enough for youngsters to afford, influentially attracting untold thousands of newcomers to model aviation. He initiated engine repair service at major contests free of charge to contestants, which has permitted competitors to win championships who may have otherwise been unable to continue in competition.

Betty Stream, BIRDS Club, endorsing Dick Tichenor’s nomination, said John Brodbeck has been overlooked too long. Over a long period of time he has been an active Nationals sponsor, has helped HIA, SCHIA, and national and local hobby‑industry associations, and is a real friend to modelers around the world. Southern California reveres and respects him — he is always ready to help activities including donations, programs, club support and contest activities. John is a wonderful person and an integral, important part of modeling’s past and present. Johnny Brodbeck’s nomination to the Hall of Fame was a popular choice supported by many; his election makes official what was regarded as his natural place in modeling history.

AMA News

DISTRICT MEETINGS

Last month I reported the Denver meeting was short notice and it shouldn't be that way. I was right. To insure the success of the meeting, the April date has been pushed back to mid‑summer. There are a number of reasons for this. First, the weather is much nicer since some of the roads may still be closed in April. Getting sufficient word around and obtaining all of the agenda requests are two other reasons. This will not be a $30 dinner and go home affair. The tentative agenda is very active. Plan on attending this meeting. Again, your AVP will have the information on this as soon as it is available.

Further District Meetings: Paul Kegel in Fargo expressed strong interest in a meeting for the Dakotas and the northern area. This is the question for everyone up there, "How interested are you?" Get in touch with Paul (910 N. 12th, Fargo, ND 58102) to find out how you can help, or contact me and I will get the word to him. Time for the get‑together could possibly be in the fall before the snow hits.

ASSOCIATE VICE PRESIDENTS

We need a new AVP for Kansas. Jim Mowery and John Krekovich have both resigned after serving District IX these past years. Contest Board members, Mike Tallman and Loren Tregallas, along with Contest Coordinator, J.T. Finley, will receive the information from me which the AVP normally gets. Jim Finley has been the coordinator for 14 years! These men are already pushed hard, so send in nominations (or volunteers) to me as soon as possible for a Kansas Associate Vice President.

Arizona • California • Hawaii • Nevada • Utah

X DISTRICT REPORT

Jim Scarborough District X Vice‑President 2501 Armour Lane Redondo Beach, CA 90278

Associate Vice‑Presidents Robert Barnes, 98‑1080 Komo Mai Drive, Aiea, HI 96701 Glenn Carter, 2020 Gil Port Lane, Walnut Creek, CA 94598 Alex Christian, 1010 West Shaw, Fresno, CA 93711 Ed Eaglin, 2751 N. Campbell Avenue, Tucson, AZ 85719 John Pond, 4290 Sonoita Circle, San Jose, CA 95136 Betty Stream, 3723 Snowden Avenue, Long Beach, CA 90808 George Williams, 187 Paseo Street, San Marcos, CA 92069

At the time of this writing in mid‑January no site for the Nationals has been selected. However, Ohio has been ruled out, due in large part to lack of proper Free Flight facilities. This would appear to give Lake Charles the inside track for the 1978 competition. If the Executive Council approves the Louisiana site, and no other problems show up, look for the dates to be July 30 to August 6.

At the recently completed CIAM meeting in France, Romania's bid to host the Indoor World Championships was rejected because of the exclusion of South Africa. Therefore, to date, there is no site selected for the 1978 championships. There is a possibility the U.S. may submit a bid, and England may be host as a last resort.

Speaking of bids, the Southern California Aero Team (SCAT) club has offered to run the FAI F1B Free Flight Team Finals this year. To the best of my knowledge, the only other offer made is by the Sacramento group. Their offer is contingent upon a switch of dates from the traditional Labor Day to sometime in October.

After the unhappy Minnesota Team Finals, the FF FAI Committee has drafted a six‑page form that a bidder must fill out. It takes in various considerations of the site, both physical and weather‑wise, and weighs them against certain parameters. Furthermore, there are places for all personnel concerned with the contest to sign! And you thought model plane building was a fun game!

In next month's column I'll have a complete report on the Winter Executive Council meeting. This meeting was to be held in late January at Houston, Texas.

I've included a picture of the display I've mentioned in previous columns. The bright blue velvet‑like material of the display is offset by the colorful AMA sign. This translucent sign is backlit by four 100 watt bulbs. The "wings" at either end fold forward or backward, depending on your desires. My stepdaughter, Kristy, is standing by it to give you an idea of its size. Contact me if you wish to use it at any of your club functions.

THERMALS!

Alaska • Idaho • Montana • Oregon • Washington

XI DISTRICT REPORT

Homer Smith District XI Vice‑President 1417 N.W. 191st Street Seattle, WA 98177

Associate Vice‑Presidents Al Clute, 1097 S. Elm, Pocatello, ID 83201 Simon Orene, R.F.D. 1, Box 48, Broadview, MT 59015 Clarence E. Haught, R.F.D. 66, Box 16, Queece, ID 83814 Daniel "Oly" Rede, 20606 Dover Ct., Kent, WA 98031 Harold G. Stitt, 1120 Shady Lane, Albany, OR 97321 Don Gipar, 21418 E. N. Main St., Redmond, WA 98052

Hope we met at the District meeting. A report will be in the next column as well as a preview of the '78 Nats planning and happenings at the Executive Council meeting. Can you wait?!

Several demonstration teams are being planned in the District. One is being put together by Howard Phillips of the Boeing Hawks. This effort is in the early stages and his plans look good. You cannot guess where the first tentative show might be held. If it all works out, Howard and friends will do a lot to inform the public about model aviation in the Puget Sound area. Good luck!

Another team is being formed by the Barons in Spokane. Darrel Stebbins is the man in charge. The group is trying to involve as many clubs as possible.

AMA News

Under joint sponsorship of the Washington State Air National Guard and the Academy of Model Aeronautics, the Model Aviation Hall of Fame made nine awards beginning with the program 1969 through 1971. AMA took over sole responsibility for the program in 1972. Since that time AMA's Council of Past Presidents has served as the Hall of Fame Selection Committee. Walt Good, himself a Hall Famer, was chairman. Objectives: recognize candidates outstanding in the past as well as currently deserving candidates. Thus the Hall of Fame considers candidates across ages and periods of activity. Past AMA presidents are uniquely qualified to fulfill objectives since they themselves are aeromodeling pioneers and present-day leaders. Most AMA presidents could qualify for the Hall of Fame. Five have been honored. No past president may vote for himself. The group considers nominations from other sources. The current committee includes the following members and dates of AMA presidency: Irwin G. Ohisson 1943-46; C. O. Wright 1948-49; Kenneth G. Held 1950-51; Frank B. Bushey 1952; Keith H. Storey 1953-56; Claude McCullough 1957; Dr. Walter Good 1958-60; Peter J. Sotich 1961-62; John Worth 1963; Maynard L. Hill 1964; Clifford G. Weirick 1967-68; John E. Patton 1969-70; John E. Clemens 1971-77.

Twenty nominations for 1977 were received. The Hall of Fame selection committee narrowed these down to five per normal balloting procedures. Description of winners follows. Anyone who would like to submit a nomination for 1978 should request an application from AMA Headquarters and submit same before next April 30.

HALL OF FAME ROSTER

• 1976 — Merrill Hamburg; Henry Struck; Frank Ehling; Harold deBolt; Chester Lanzo
• 1975 — Irwin G. Ohisson; C. O. Wright; Walt Schroder; Jim Kirkland (deceased); Lt. Harold W. John Alden (deceased)
• 1974 — W. L. Bill Brown; W. R. Enyart (deceased); Irwin Nathan Polk; Sal Taibi
• 1973 — O. C. Randall (deceased)
• 1972 — Howard McEntee (deceased)
• 1970 — Dick Korda; Al Lewis (deceased); Bill Winter
• 1969 — Walt Billett (deceased); Willis Brown (deceased); Carl Goldberg; Walt Good; Jim Walker (deceased); Frank Zaic

John W. Brodbeck, age 62, B & B Manufacturing Company, Downey, California, is a pioneer in model powerplant development, a dedicated modeler, supporter of AMA and a long‑standing Nationals sponsor. John, of the West Coast Admiral 8‑Ball Club (originally a fund‑raising organization formed to meet AMA financial deficits during the '50s and '60s), directed annual Far East championships in Japan. From 1956 through 1970 winners brought U.S. competitors to AMA Nationals. With very few American engine manufacturers remaining in business to meet foreign competition in performance and price, K & B engines have powered championship‑winning models for years since their pioneering engine designs of the 1930s. Brodbeck's infant engine in the '40s made small models practical at a price youngsters could afford, influential in attracting untold thousands of newcomers to model aviation. He initiated engine repair service at major contests free of charge to contestants, which has permitted competitors to win championships who may have otherwise been unable to continue competition. Betty Stream BIRDS Club, endorsing Dick Tichenor's nomination, said Brodbeck has been overlooked too long. For a period of time he has been an active Nationals sponsor. National and local hobby industry associations have a real friend in him; modelers the world over, especially in Southern California, revere and respect him. He is always ready to help activities including donations, programs, club support and contest activities. John is a wonderful person and an integral, important part of modeling past and present. Johnny Brodbeck's nomination for the Hall of Fame was a popular choice supported by many; his election makes official what is regarded as his natural place in modeling history.

Maynard L. Hill has been an internationally known aeromodeler for 25 years, past president of DCIRC (Pittsburgh Flying Circuits) and Monroeville PA MAC, and served as AMA President in 1964. Maynard's service to aeromodeling included 15 years of work and responsibilities with the Fédération Aéronautique Internationale, including chairmanship of the RC Subcommittee.

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