AIR SHOW TEAM STATUS REPORT
Now barely a year old, the AMA Air Show Team program boasts a total of 20 teams for the coming 1978 flying season. 20 teams represent some 205 AMA members from nine districts and 13 states. The 12 active teams in 1977 were responsible for promoting model aviation to the general public all across the country, presenting over 232 performances before thousands of pleased spectators. Besides educational and informative flying demonstrations, original routines are created involving highly skilled and well-choreographed aerial and ground acts with elaborate sound and costuming in many cases.
Besides many hours of practice and building, some Show Teams are constantly working on new ideas for different types of aircraft and new acts to entertain their audiences. We're not sure if it was mental telepathy or not, but two Show Teams have come up with a flying "Big Mac"—the first was designed by Kelly Eberle of the Flying Dutchmen Aero Team (Control Line), for the International Toy Show in Philadelphia last September, and the second was designed and built by Bob Roach of the Spirit of America Air Show Team (Radio Control), for the 24th Annual Toledo Exposition.
Building and flying are only the beginnings of an Air Show Team's interest. Many spacious new shopping malls now welcome team static displays (teams averaged from two to five static shows a month), thus giving good exposure and creating interest in aeromodelling during the long non-flying winter. During one static display by the S.T.A.R.S. Air Show Team at the North Star Mall in San Antonio, Texas, random samplings and interviews indicated "over 25,000 people visited the various displays," and merchants in that mall indicated "a sharp rise in modeling-related sales as a direct result of the show." That's not the least of this AST's efforts—among the other rewards were requests for air shows from a mayor in Lytle, Texas, a Chamber of Commerce representative from Castroville, Texas, an RC Club representative from Tampico, Mexico, a hobby shop owner from Austin, Texas, and a representative from Piper Aircraft's Agricultural Division. It's plain to see that interest in model aviation in Texas is growing!
Air Show Teams, with the help of many generous industry sponsors, hold full programmed flying shows, demonstrations, model building classes, lectures, static shows and interviews on television and radio.
Not only is model aeronautics promoted in general, but many of the newspapers covering the events detail the type of equipment used and kinds of equipment needed to build models.
For the future, picture 50 of these show teams across the country promoting model aviation. A new concept, the Academy has already received over 70 requests to become AMA/HIA Air Show Teams. Although qualification requires a great deal of skill, professionalism and promotional ability, hopes are high that AST's will quadruple in number and performance for '78.
Meanwhile, the following is merely a sampling of the type of response the show teams have received to date:
"The aeromodellers' program helps publicize a hobby which has brought great recreational enjoyment to young and old alike... It is a source of great optimism in view of the quickening pace of American life..." Representative Gus Yatron, Pennsylvania The Congressional Record
"Model aviation is much more than we anticipated. You have provided us with a group of men we can work closely with in our coming events." John Parker, Chapter President American Business Clubs Reading, Pennsylvania
"You can be assured in the future new members into your hobby will come out of our ranks because of your show." J. Davis, President Reading Jaycees, Inc. Reading, Pennsylvania "You have undoubtedly stimulated an interest in this hobby in many of us." T. M. Bermingham, Pony Federation Chief Y Indian Guides Camden County, New Jersey
"The people in attendance enjoyed the show and many youngsters asked whom to contact in reference to joining the model club." Sam Protto, Chairman Twp. of Spring Festival Committee Reading, Pennsylvania
"Never before have we met people who went out of their way to help us...." Judith Dolan, Field Producer KidsWorld Productions Miami, Florida
"Your demonstration was both entertaining and informative and we are sure it was enjoyed by all from the comments that were directed to us." Jeannann Skoraszewski, Media Boy Scouts Troop No. 103 Fleetwood, Pennsylvania
"It was our pleasure to produce with you two very fine segments for 'Metro Magazine,' which aired on October 23rd and November 13, 1977... Each segment was approximately 15 minutes in duration, and if I may add, greatly enhanced the 'Magazine' program..." Charles J. Adams, Public Affairs Berks Broadcasting Co. Reading, Pennsylvania
"The audience of approximately 1,000 were captivated by the show. I personally received an untold number of comments acclaiming their performance." Robert Hohenbrink, Airport Mgr. Delphos Airport Corp. Fly-in
"There was everything you'd expect from a good air show—loops and rolls, steep dives and precision flying, even a dog fight..." Dennis Collins, Sports Writer The Miami Herald Miami, Florida
"...a show that delighted the young and the not so young." The Fighter Forum Homestead Air Force Base
"It was obvious to see the effort and pride that your team takes in its performances and the professionalism displayed in your program received many favorable comments both for your team and for our planning committee." Col. Harold V. Walsh, Commander New Jersey Air National Guard Atlantic City, New Jersey
"We received several telephone calls asking for your address, and I noticed your show excited more comment than almost anything else done that day... You gave great pleasure to thousands of people here." Alexis I. DuPont, President Colonial Flying Corp. Museum, Inc. Toughkenamon, Pennsylvania
"They put on a tremendous show for our inmates... They did stunt flying, acrobatics, racing, mock combat, plus a lot of funny material; even one crash, which was not on the program." Bruce Baker, Recreation The Milanare Federal Correctional Institution Milan, Michigan
"For the community it added a genuine type recreation for both adults and children. It also gave the Girl Scouts and their leaders an excellent experience through their organizational efforts as sponsors." Charles E. Bartlett, Mayor Bowling Green, Ohio
"The Board of Directors of MCARC has asked me to express its gratitude to your organization for agreeing to participate in the program of the Air Show and Family Day to be held for the benefit of MCARC..." Monroe Karasik, President Montgomery County Assoc. for Retarded Citizens, Inc. Silver Spring, Maryland
"Your show team did a magnificent job again this year. On behalf of the Director of Operations, Major General Ellis, I would like to express the appreciation of all of us who attended this year's picnic." Major John R. Lippolt Chief, Personnel/Administration Headquarters United States Air Force Washington, D.C.
"The show, as always, was one of the highlights of the day and was appreciated and..."
AIR SHOW TEAM STATUS REPORT
Now barely a year old, the AMA Air Show Team program boasts a total of 20 teams coming into the 1978 flying season. The 20 teams represent some 205 AMA members in nine districts and 13 states. Twelve active teams in 1977 were responsible for promoting model aviation to the general public across the country, presenting over 232 performances before thousands of pleased spectators. Besides educational, informative flying demonstrations, original routines involved highly skilled, well-choreographed aerial and ground acts with elaborate sound, costuming and staging. Besides hours of practice and building, some Show Teams constantly work on new ideas, different types of aircraft and new acts to entertain audiences.
Two Show Teams have come up flying "Big Mac" — the first designed by Kelly Eberle, Flying Dutchmen Aero Team, at the Control Line International Toy Show, Philadelphia last September; the second designed and built by Bob Roach, Spirit America Air Show Team, Radio Control, at the 24th Annual Toledo Exposition Building. Air Show Teams are finding interest in spacious new shopping malls, which now welcome team static displays. Teams averaged two to five static shows a month, thus giving good exposure and creating interest in aeromodeling during the long non-flying winter.
During a static display by STARS Air Show Team at North Star Mall, San Antonio, Texas, random samplings and interviews indicated over 25,000 people visited various displays. Merchants in the mall indicated a sharp rise in modeling-related sales — a direct result of the show. Among other rewards have been requests for air shows from the mayor of Lytle, Texas; a Chamber of Commerce representative from Castroville, Texas; an RC club representative from Tampico, Mexico; a hobby shop owner from Austin, Texas; and a representative of Piper Aircraft's Agricultural Division. It's plain to see interest in model aviation in Texas is growing.
Air Show Teams, with the help of generous industry sponsors, hold fully programmed flying shows, demonstrations, model-building classes, lectures, static shows, interviews and appearances on television and radio. Model aeronautics is promoted in general newspapers covering events in detail, describing the type of equipment used and the kinds of equipment needed to build models. The future picture could be 50 show teams across the country promoting model aviation. The Academy has already received over 70 requests to become AMA/HI A Air Show Teams. Although qualification requires a great deal of skill, professionalism and promotional ability, hopes are high that ASTs will quadruple the number of performances in 1978.
Meanwhile, the sampling-type response show teams have received to date indicates the aeromodelers' program helps publicize the hobby and has brought great recreational enjoyment to young and old alike — a source of great optimism in view of the quickening pace of American life.
AMA News
Hence (Toledo, OH, of course), the MACS SHOW in Long Beach, CA, and the INTERNATIONAL MODELER SHOW in Los Angeles, all in April.
An AMA DISTRICT VII MEETING was hosted by those great folks of the C.A.R.D.S. Club in Lansing, Michigan, on March 25th. Along with the meeting and banquet the C.A.R.D.S. put on their EXPO Show of beautiful models. April 1st was the date for the 495th RC SQUADRON to again host the AMA DISTRICT I MEETING in Westford, MA. A feature of the District I meeting was the induction of long-timer BERT POND into the AMA HALL OF FAME. The C.A.R.D.S. and the 495th RC SQUADRON are representative of the best chartered clubs in AMA. Both have outstanding leadership and club spirit. AMA District X Vice President, JIM SCARBOROUGH is to hold a DISTRICT X MEETING April 29th in conjunction with the INTERNATIONAL MODELERS SHOW in Los Angeles.
Further involvement of AMA included the attending of the COMMITTEE FOR INTERNATIONAL AEROMODELING Bureau meeting (F.A.I.-World) in Paris, March 30-31 by JOHN CLEMENS, JOHN WORTH, and LAIRD JACKSON. A multitude of other meetings by special interest groups at the various shows, and so forth, also required AMA representation.
During this same period of time AMA held a NATIONALS EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING in Dallas, January 21st, an AMA EXECUTIVE COUNCIL MEETING in Houston on January 28th, another COUNCIL MEETING on February 18th at Dulles Airport, Washington, D.C., and still another COUNCIL MEETING aboard the Queen Mary at Long Beach on April 21st. AMA was also involved in the HOBBY INDUSTRY OF AMERICA TRADE SHOW in Houston January 27th through February 1st.
OUTSIDE OF ALL THAT AMA HASN'T DONE MUCH LATELY!!!! GOOD GRIEF!!!
IT IS HARD TO HAVE FAITH!
With all the business and personal taxes that I must pay, and the multitude of forms and paperwork that must be filled out to prove my facts the following shakes my faith. The Employers Quarterly Federal Tax Return needed to be filled out and submitted about the same time as this column needed to go to the magazine. I just filled out the tax form (Form 941) and I found the following instructions. "Please use this form. If you don't have a form get one from any Internal Revenue Service Office."
Now how in the heck would you know you needed that form if you didn't have the form to read those instructions. GOOD GOSH!
WE ARE ALL IN TROUBLE!!
The trend in modeling is toward the much larger scale models—but the cars we must use to take them to the flying site are much smaller! Darned poor planning, I'd say.
ARE THE "GIANTS" TAKING OVER?
Since I mentioned the "much larger" (1/4 scale and the like) trend in scale models in the previous paragraph, I thought that a few words of comment would not be amiss. I guess that BUD NOSSEN has probably had as much influence as anyone in this movement toward popularity of models of around 100 inches in span and upward. Bud manufactures an excellent line of these large models at his plant in Two Harbors, Minnesota. Two Harbors, by the way, is a small quiet community a little east of Duluth.
I talked with Bud at the Weak Signals Conference in Toledo, and again by phone a few minutes ago, and his comments were most interesting. First, the burst of "big-bird" business has required that Nossen increase his manufacturing facility to 7,000 sq. ft. Second, Bud says he is completely sold out for the rest of this year. In other words, he has on hand more orders than he can fill for this year and on into next year. This doesn't mean you are out of luck if the "big-uns" are your bag, because there were a bunch of manufacturers showing big planes at the WRAMS, TOLEDO and MACS shows.
A lot of chatter is being generated by the new popularity of the "giant" model planes. Are they safe? Will they influence our insurance unfavorably? Will they create problems regarding flying sites? Are they really easier to fly? Will the cost of all that material hold the number of models built down? Where will this size thing stop, or will it? Where will the courts and insurance companies draw the line between "AIRCRAFT" and "MODEL AIRCRAFT"?
If things have been a little dull at your club meetings lately I think it would be very interesting (and very progressive and contributive) to form some club programs around big-plane problems. Who knows what these discussions YOU generate might help us all to solve this new BIG problem.
In talking to Bud Nossen, I was interested in hearing him say that he was not concerned about the trend toward not only larger and heavier aircraft, but especially the trend toward larger and heavier engines. He said that he was limiting his designs to planes that could be flown with a "60" engine and to a wingspan of about 100 inches.
If you would like to consider the problems created by larger aircraft, you might like to consider that they are easier to control because they cannot change direction or attitude quite as quickly as smaller models. They can also be trimmed to fly a little slower. This all means that the ones of us who no longer have the lightning reflexes of youth could more accurately control the beast. The other side of the coin tells us the kinetic energy developed by the larger and heavier machine could be more destructive. An obvious fact is that a large aircraft going into a crowd (let's all pray it doesn't happen!) would probably strike more people than a small model. Of course the smaller model would probably be going faster. There are sure a lot of things to consider.
IF YOU HAVE DEFINED OPINIONS it would be of help certainly to submit them to the AMA VICE PRESIDENT FOR YOUR DISTRICT. You will find his name and address in the "District Reports" in the current issue of Model Aviation. The local columnists of the particular interests in ALL THE MODEL PUBLICATIONS would be another way of exchanging your thoughts with your fellow fliers. YOUR CLUB NEWSLETTER is another fine way to be heard, and make sure your club is exchanging newsletters with the other active clubs.
But please always remember that THE MOST IMPORTANT THING YOU BUILD INTO YOUR MODEL PLANE IS S-A-F-E-T-Y—AND THE WAY YOU PRACTICE IT!
JUNIOR OFFICERS—GOOD IDEA.
One of the most progressive Charter Clubs in the U.S. is the FLYING DUTCHMEN AEROMODELERS Club of Reading, PA. I always gain something from their newsletter, "AIR MAIL," and this time it's a reminder that a good move on the part of a club is to have a JUNIOR OFFICER or officers. This is to make sure that the young folks have a voice, and even possibly some projects of their own. The FLYING DUTCHMEN's Junior President is RICK GERMANN and I enjoyed his report in the newsletter. I also enjoyed a spirited visit with some of the Dutchmen at Toledo. A colorful bunch!
A MOST INTERESTING QUOTE FROM TV—
On the often-irreverent show, "ALL IN THE FAMILY," Archie Bunker made a most interesting declaration. He said, "GOD don't make no mistakes! That is how he got to be GOD!"
THE "WINGS" OF AMA—BLESS 'EM!
While in Lansing, Michigan, for the AMA District VII meeting, EXPO Show, and banquet I spent some very pleasant moments with a couple of "angels." I know they must be angels because they are among the most active members of the "WINGS." "WINGS" stands for Women's International Glider Soaring, and it is a most unique organization. "WINGS" is a club made up of members from all over the country, in contrast to the usual form of just local membership. The fact that these ladies are all active RC Soaring Glider participants also makes "WINGS" unique. Of the 20-some active members not all are fliers but all do contribute. The original idea of forming the WINGS was cooked up by Barbara Robinson, Karen Toebe, Margaret Gill, and Barbara Henon at the SOAR NATS at Lockport, Illinois, in 1974. Most amazing to me is the fact that it is hard enough to keep a local bunch together and all headed in the same direction. To hold a group together scattered all over the country is unbelievable, but they are doing it.
The "pair of WINGS" that I enjoyed getting to visit with in Lansing are past and present officers in the club and are among the prime movers and organizers of the club. They are KAREN TOEBE and BARBARA ROBINSON. These great gals not only belong to the WINGS but also to C.A.R.D.S. Club of Lansing. OUTSTANDING AMAs!!
A NEWSLETTER THAT COMMUNICATES—
The newsletter of the MONMOUTH MODEL AIRPLANE CLUB of over New Jersey is always informative, I especially admire editor HENRY GOEDKOOP for listing ALL of the AMA District II officers in the newsletter. Every AMA member should know who serves him or her, and who to contact in case they have a suggestion or question, or just a plain ol' "ask to grind." Henry listed all names, addresses, and phone numbers. How about YOUR district?
I GET HELP WITH AN ENDING
MIKE NASSE, editor of "WING TIPS" for the WING BUSTERS M.A.C. of Hanson, MA, ended his May editorial effort in a way I like. He said simply, "Keep your nose up and your tail down!"
******all for now******
AST REPORT (cont. from pg. 58)
"joyed by all."
Susan M. Kenney, V.P. Social Activities NASA Employees Club Washington, D.C.
"It was, as in the past, the highlight of the picnic."
James C. Borre Group Operations Sup. Toys "R" Us, Inc. Beltsville, Maryland
"The Air Show was certainly one of the highlights of the picnic and was enjoyed by everyone."
Cathy Augustine Picnic Co-Chairman Computer Sciences Corporation Falls Church, Virginia
"One hundred and four students were able to enjoy the fine air show..."
P. W. Kraning, Dir. of Recreation Indiana Boys' School Plainfield, Indiana
"I'm pleased that these people are willing to spend their day working for a worthwhile cause. It's highly commendable."
C. L. Todd, Campaign Chairman United Way San Antonio, Texas
Already a success story, the dedication of these men and women of these Air Show Teams, devoting their own time, money and effort should be applauded. Thanks to their enthusiasm, model aviation is flying high!
AIR SHOW TEAM STATUS REPORT
Now barely a year old, the AMA Air Show Team program boasts a total of 20 teams coming into the 1978 flying season. The 20 teams represent some 205 AMA members in nine districts and 13 states. Twelve active teams in 1977 were responsible for promoting model aviation to the general public across the country, presenting over 232 performances before thousands of pleased spectators. Besides educational, informative flying demonstrations and original routines involving highly skilled, well-choreographed aerial and ground acts, elaborate sound, costuming and display cases were used.
Besides hours of practice and building, some Show Teams are constantly working on new ideas, different types of aircraft and new acts to entertain audiences. Two Show Teams have come up with "Big Mac" — the first designed by Kelly Eberle, Flying Dutchmen Aero Team (Control Line) at the International Toy Show, Philadelphia last September; the second designed and built by Bob Roach, Spirit America Air Show Team (Radio Control) at the 24th Annual Toledo Exposition Building.
The flying beginnings of Air Show Teams brought interest from spacious new shopping malls which now welcome team static displays. Teams averaged two to five static shows per month, thus giving good exposure and creating interest in aeromodeling during the long non-flying winter. During a static display by STARS Air Show Team at North Star Mall, San Antonio, Texas, random samplings in interviews indicated over 25,000 people visited various displays. Merchants in the mall indicated a sharp rise in modeling-related sales as a direct result of the show. That's at least among AST's efforts; among other rewards have been requests for air shows from the mayor of Lytle, Texas; a Chamber of Commerce representative; a Castroville, Texas RC Club representative; a representative from Tampico, Mexico; a hobby shop owner from Austin, Texas; and a representative of Piper Aircraft's Agricultural Division.
It's plain to see interest in model aviation in Texas is growing. Air Show Teams, helped by generous industry sponsors, hold full programmed flying shows, demonstrations, model building classes, lectures, static shows, and interviews on television and radio. Model aeronautics is promoted in the general newspapers covering events in detail, including type of equipment used and kinds of equipment needed to build models.
The future picture: 50 show teams across the country promoting model aviation. The new concept Academy has already received over 70 requests to become AMA/HIA Air Show Teams. Although qualification requires a great deal of skill, professionalism and promotional ability, hopes are high ASTs will quadruple the number of performances in '78. Meanwhile, following the merely sampling-type response show teams have received to date, the aeromodelers program helps publicize the hobby and has brought great recreational enjoyment to young and old alike — a source of great optimism in view of the quickening pace of American life.
Representative Gus Yatron, Pennsylvania — Congressional Record: "Model aviation ... have provided us ... group men can work closely ... ing events."
John Parker, Chapter President American Business Clubs Reading, Pennsylvania: "... can be assured future new members of the hobby will come out of the ranks because of the show."
J. Davis, President Reading Jaycees, Inc. Reading, Pennsylvania
Crowds — what the AMA Air Show Team Program is about — gives the general public a chance to witness first-hand the excitement and challenge of air-modeling. A mixture of specialty aircraft such as flying doghouse, flying lawnmower, flying flag plus scale conventional models makes for well-rounded shows. A picture exhibition put on by the Florida Air Show Team...
Never before have we met people who went out of their way to help us.
Judith Dolan Field Producer, KidsWorld Productions Miami, Florida: "... the demonstration was both entertaining and informative ... sure enjoyed ... comments directed us."
Jeanann Skoraszewski Media, Boy Scouts Troop No. 103 Fleetwood, Pennsylvania: "... pleasure to produce two very fine segments ... Metro Magazine aired October 23rd ..."
AMA CLUB REPORT
As of December 31, 1977, 46 clubs now have memberships of 100 or more!
Club — State — Members
1330 Orange Coast RC — CA — 374 0140 Pioneer R/C Club, Inc. — CA — 324 0329 D. C. R. C. — MD — 260 0116 BIRDS, Inc. — CA — 231 0575 Valley Forge Signal Seekers — PA — 194 0551 Greater Pittsburgh Aero R'c'ers — PA — 162 0641 Tidewater RC, Inc. — VA — 160 0154 San Gabriel Valley RC League — CA — 157 0428 Rockland County RC — NJ — 154 0122 Cordova Model Masters — CA — 143 0636 Northern Virginia RC — VA — 142 0623 Richardson RC Club — TX — 141 0162 So. Alameda County RC'ers — CA — 139 0617 Manned Spacecraft Center RC — TX — 136 0347 South Shore RC — MA — 135 0371 Signal Seekers RC — MI — 135 0188 No. Connecticut RC — CT — 134 0502 Goodyear M.A.C. — OH — 134 0218 Suncoast Aeromodelers — FL — 133 0703 Mid-Hudson RC Soc. — NY — 127 0597 Middle Tenn. R/C Soc. — TN — 127 0247 Chicagoland RC Modelers, Inc. — IL — 126 0528 Tulsa Glue Dobbers, Inc. — OK — 125 0444 Blue Angels MAC — NY — 124 0340 49'ths R C Squadron — MA — 123 0334 Prince Georges RC — MD — 119 0413 Central Jersey RC — NJ — 119 0163 South Bay Soaring Soc. — CA — 114 0455 Long Island Drone Soc. — NY — 113 0285 Ft. Wayne Flying Circuits, Inc. — IN — 111 0773 Arizona RC Soc., Inc. — AZ — 110 0156 San Jose Wavemasters RC, Inc. — CA — 110 0274 Suburban Aero Club of Chicago — IL — 108 0667 Milwaukee Flying Electrons, Inc. — WI — 108 0143 RC Bees, Inc. — CA — 107 0179 Pikes Peak RC — CO — 107 0463 Penn. A. V. E. RC Society — NY — 107 0524 Western Ohio R/C Soc. — OH — 107 0152 San Fernando Valley RC Flyers — CA — 106 0468 Rochester Aeromodelers Soc. — NY — 105 0649 Radio Aeromodelers of Seattle — WA — 103 0383 Twin City RC — MN — 102 0263 Palos Park RC — IL — 101 0129 Torrey Pines Guild Glider Club — CA — 100 0338 Cape Ann RC Model Club — MA — 100 0877 Austin RC Assn. — TX — 100
No. Clubs — No. Members 775 — 0–24 385 — 25–49 135 — 50–74 36 — 75–99 24 — 100 & over
Total Clubs — 1377
AMA News
FCC PETITION (Continued)
permitted on all RC frequencies. We might also obtain some frequencies in the region above 400 MHz.
Obtaining of frequencies in the 30-42 MHz area would permit relatively easy and economical conversion of 27 MHz equipment so that the latter would be freed from the present CB interference problems and the life of the equipment would be extended indefinitely.
The AMA petition is currently being reviewed by RC industry leaders and AMA Frequency Committee members to insure completeness of views. The final version, expected by the end of June, will then be submitted to the FCC. It is estimated that about a year may then follow before any positive action can be expected; a "normal" time span for the basics of government procedures to produce an end result.
The timetable is about a year beyond what AMA leaders had hoped for back in 1976 when AMA members were successful in convincing the FCC that existing 27 MHz RC frequencies should not be given over to CB use. But since that time a new administration has taken over in Washington and many FCC officials of '76 are no longer on the scene. This has caused delays in AMA's campaign to seek new RC frequencies.
Now, however, the stage is set for the effort to expand the potential for RC activity and the AMA Frequency Committee is optimistic. The full text of the AMA petition will be published as soon as it is ready to present to the FCC.
Free Flight or Radio Control flying near airports, or in any situation which might involve the possibility of models being in the vicinity of full-scale aircraft operations, must be avoided—or conducted so as to eliminate any dangerous situations. Models should not be flown in the proximity of full-scale aircraft unless the flyer has someone else with him for the sole purpose of watching for full-scale aircraft and supervising the flying so as to prevent accident possibilities.
Connecticut • Maine • Massachusetts • New Hampshire Rhode Island • Vermont
DISTRICT REPORT
Cliff Piper District I Vice-President Highland Avenue Atkinson, NH 03811
Associate Vice-Presidents Robert C. Brodeur, 405 Main Street, Nashua, NH 03060 Raymond G. Boudreau, 39 High Street, Old Town, ME 04468 Charles H. Leavroy, P.O. Box 476, West Groton, MA 01472 Al Novotnik, 4 Beverly Place, Norwalk, CT 06850 George Parker, 7 Paul Dr., Lee, MA 01238 A. Mike Schneider, 5 Doublett Drive, Ledyard, CT 06339 William Wilbur, 6 Laurel Ave., Kittery, ME 03904
Seems as though there's always another column due. This usually happens when it comes spring, with more outside activity, more meetings, and even more Council meetings. Today, at this writing, on April 19th, it finds me on the way to yet another meeting with the Executive Council, this time at the Long Beach Convention Center, in California, to have a day-long meeting, and if time permits, a visit to the MACS Show, being held at the same location. The following week, there is an International Model Show at the Los Angeles Convention Center, being ably handled by old friend, Bill Northrop.
At this time, I wish to again thank Doug Allred for his performance in the job (often thankless) of RC Contest Board member for District I. I know that he has put a lot of time into the job, filled out a lot of return questionnaires for the RC Board, and has been always aware of the problems and hopes of the RC fraternity. A WARM, HEARTFELT THANKS, DOUG.
John Papageorge, a modeler since even before my time (possibly), back in the Doolings days of Speed, and now involved in RC Pylon, is another whom I wish to thank for his services as AVP for Western Massachusetts. John has been eliminated from his plans to take the British prize for man-powered flight, which he has been working on for a long time, because the prize has been won by the Gossamer Condor. Many of John's plans for this entry were utilized by the prize winner. The only consolation now, John, is that you will save a lot of Monokote for future modeling efforts. THANK YOU, JOHN, FOR THESE PAST EIGHT YEARS OF WORK AND SUPPORT.
Art Everett, who tied in the election for AVP for Southern Maine with Bill Wilbur, was declared in favor of Bill, in order to have more time for personal and modeling efforts. Art has probably done more for the modelers in his area than any AVP, on a per capita basis. He will continue to support the sport, and is already planning a couple more meets up in the Portland, Maine area. THANK YOU, ART EVERETT.
I must continue to ask for inputs for the column. If you have a contest coming up, and can give me 60 days lead time, let me know. Most clubs are using a sheet in the club paper to list contests of interest to their members. This is a great idea.
Speaking of club papers, I have recently heard from a couple of clubs, one of which has had some growing pains. I will come to meet with you both, in Maine and in New Hampshire this summer, to pass along what may be some helpful suggestions for a successful club. Thankfully, we don't have a lot of flying site problems in District I YET.
I SUGGEST THAT ALL CLUB NEWSLETTERS USE A LOGO, OR HEADING, ON THE PAPER, WITH THE CLUB NAME, AND AN ADDRESS THAT MAY BE USED. All too often, the writer of a club newsletter seems to assume that everyone reading it knows who he is, where he is, and what's going on. Try a little different format, and use some different spacing for your newsletters, those of you who are new at it. It will mean a lot to your club and to your other interested readers.
New Jersey • New York
II DISTRICT REPORT
John Byrne District II Vice-President 36-29 213 Street Bayside, NY 11361
Associate Vice-Presidents Pete Bandini, 260 S. Broadway, Yonkers, NY 10705 David Fielder, 11 Lake Lane, Elsmere, NY 12065 John Gridley, 337 Boen Ave., Lockport, NY 14094 Cliff Monteferrante, 17 Duryea Dr., Summit, NJ 07901 Jack Sammarco, 206 Emerson Ave., Union, NJ 07083 George Sheehan, Chief, Clubs & Hobbies, USAF/EUROPE, AFBOX 4041, APO, New York 09099 Walter Throne, 208 Windermere Rd., Syracuse, NY 13219
SECOND (DISTRICT II) THOUGHTS
This may amount to "jumping the gun" a bit, but I feel the urge to expound upon one of my pet projects, i.e., getting out the VOTE.
It is all very well to write off the poor showing of AMA-ers in their election polls by resignedly attributing it to "member apathy," but if you are to any degree a disciple of Cause and Effect, such disposition of the problem will strike you as representing a resounding "cop-out" and your thirst for Truth will remain unSatiated. As one who is ruled by an unrelenting urge to locate and isolate ANSWERS having logic on their side, I have given a great deal of thought to the reason for the monumental disinclination of AMA members to vote for their Presidents, VPs and other officers. In my humble opinion the ANSWER to this problem is to be found in the area of TIMING. My suggestion, ventured with equal humility, is that we rearrange our calendars so as to divorce the polling period from dues-paying time, even though it will cost more in the way of postage. No matter how emphatically we stress to the membership that the mailing of the ballot need not await the sending of the dues money, the vast majority of the failing-to-vote members will either wait so long as to be too late for their vote to count, or, blending lassitude with a feeling of futility, end up just sending in the money as an in-
AMA News
insurance premium. I say let's have the elections around June or July and the dues season in November or December. In a District like ours, where there are over 5,000 members, were there only 793 valid votes cast for ALL candidates in the last (1977) Presidential election? Can "apathy" be the "ANSWER???" How do you feel about this? Do us all a favor and let me know. PLEASE!!!
SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL AMA SHOW TEAM
It is gratifying to learn that AMA HQ is receiving so many requests from all Districts for information and other available assistance concerning the organization and conduct of local Show Teams. The more of such teams the better off we are in the context of benefits to be realized through their activities. Much greater coverage is possible through the increase in the number of teams, considering the travel and expense required for a lesser number to journey greater distances within the District. Then, too, there is the thrill of watching the local "stars" go through their paces!
DISTRICT II QUESTIONNAIRE
At each District II membership meeting I distribute blank questionnaire forms to those in attendance and find the input which results as most helpful. For example, the one returned to me following our meeting at the WRAM Show by Bill McClure, President of the HACKENSACK VALLEY R/C FLYERS, elicited the following comments in response to the questions concerning things to be accomplished by AMA on the local and national levels: "Increased communication between local clubs on an informal, non-pressure level. Rigid organization and mandatory meetings usually turn off people and cause hard feelings." Bill had the following to say about what he felt AMA should do on the national level: "A drive by AMA to have large corporations sponsor shows and contests and finance our activities. In return they gain advertising advantages. Sample: Hitachi and Circus-Circus! If AMA doesn't do it, individual clubs will. Let's get on the Gravy Train! Every other sport does it—golf, boat racing, football—you name it. Why not us?"
Marcel Favetta, of the same club, also responded and was of the opinion that a lot still remains in the area of obtaining greater newspaper coverage of modeling activities. Marcel also had this to say: "Unfortunately, I feel that too many members are in the AMA for insurance coverage only. I think the AMA needs more of a united 'grass roots' approach whereby clubs, as well as individual modelers, recognize the existence of fellow fliers, both AMA and non‑AMA, living in nearby areas. I believe the idea of Associations is great because our hobby is more fun when more people are involved."
Besides hours of practice and building, some Show Teams are constantly working new ideas — different types of aircraft, new acts to entertain audiences. Two Show Teams have come up with flying "Big Mac" — the first designed by Kelly Eberle, Flying Dutchmen Aero Team (Control Line), exhibited at the International Toy Show, Philadelphia last September; the second designed and built by Bob Roach, Spirit America Air Show Team (Radio Control), at the 24th Annual Toledo Exposition Building.
Beginning with static displays, Show Teams have found interest in spacious new shopping malls; teams averaged two to five static shows a month, thus giving good exposure and creating interest in aeromodeling during the long non-flying winter. During a static display by STARS Air Show Team at North Star Mall, San Antonio, Texas, random samplings and interviews indicated over 25,000 people visited the various displays. Merchants in the mall indicated a sharp rise in modeling-related sales as a direct result of the show.
Among other rewards were requests for air shows from the mayor of Lytle, Texas; a Chamber of Commerce representative from Castroville, Texas; an R/C Club representative from Tampico, Mexico; a hobby shop owner from Austin, Texas; and a representative of Piper Aircraft's Agricultural Division. It's plain to see interest in model aviation in Texas is growing.
Air Show Teams, with the help of generous industry sponsors, hold fully programmed flying shows, demonstrations, model-building classes, lectures, static shows, and interviews on television and radio. Model aeronautics are promoted in general newspapers covering events in detail — the type of equipment used and the kinds of equipment needed to build models. The picture for the future is bright: 50 show teams across the country promoting model aviation. The concept has already generated over 70 requests to become AMA Air Show Teams. Although qualification requires a great deal of skill, professionalism and promotional ability, hopes are high that ASTs will quadruple the number of performances in '78.
Meanwhile, the merely sampling-type response the show teams have received to date indicates the aeromodelers' program helps publicize the hobby and has brought great recreational enjoyment to young and old alike — a source of great optimism in view of the quickening pace of American life.
Representative Gus Yatron (Pennsylvania) in the Congressional Record: "Model aviation has undoubtedly stimulated interest in the hobby." T. M. Bermingham, Pony Federation Chief, Indian Guides, Camden County, New Jersey, reported people in attendance enjoyed the show and youngsters asked for contact references about joining model clubs. Sam Protto, Chairman, Twp. Spring Festival Committee, Reading, Pennsylvania: "Never before have I met people who went out of their way to help us." Judith Dolan, Field Producer, KidsWorld Productions, Miami, Florida: "The demonstrations were both entertaining and informative." Jeanann Skoraszewski, Media, Boy Scouts Troop No. 103, Fleetwood, Pennsylvania: "A pleasure to produce two very fine segments on Metro Magazine aired October 23rd and November..."
AMA News
Thank you Howard, and John, and Chuck for your interest and let's hope the clubs get behind this effort. I think this should include Precision Aerobatics of both Control Line and Radio. Write your ideas to Howard.
Don't forget to plan on the Second Annual District IV AMA meeting, scheduled for August 26, 1978, at Mechanicsville (near Richmond), Va. Lots of interesting things to see and hear. More on that later...
Test flew my B25 with twin Webra 40s, flaps, retracts, and bomb drop last Sunday. As the Bishop said to the widow... "Whooo... Eeeee!!!!"
Alabama • Florida • Georgia • Mississippi • Puerto Rico • South Carolina • Tennessee
V DISTRICT REPORT
Jim McNeill District V Vice-President 617 South 20th Avenue Birmingham, AL 35205
Associate Vice-Presidents
- John Bryson, 400 Council Cir., P.O. Box 1355, Tupelo, MS 38801
- Richard E. Jackson, 107 White Blvd., Summerville, SC 29483
- Chris Joiner, 5941 Warner Road, Columbus, GA 31904
- Arthur Johnson, 8932 Banyan Dr., Delray Beach, FL 33444
- Jim Larkin, 3252 Monroe Dr., Hoover, AL 35216
- Luis Rodriguez, E-10, 5th St., El Valle, Bayamon, Puerto Rico 00961
- John Workman, 5321 Overton Road, Nashville, TN 37220
A pretty girl in Mississippi sends me pictures regularly, permitting me to report to you the happenings in Meridian. Mrs. Mary Corbin, wife of Ray Corbin, who works at the Meridian, MS Post Office, and is an important flier in that area, sent this snap of the Meridian club members at a recent air show. Shown here, Harold Watson, Bill Clay, Mickey Thompson, and Buddy Ducrin.
I have some other pictures of their air show I can feature later.
Recently, here in Birmingham, ground was broken for an Air Museum for full sized aircraft. The city fathers showed up, including Mayor Vann. At the ceremonies, Birmingham Aeromodellers member Pat Hollack donated his model RC Pietenpol to the new museum.
Pictured here is club president Gary Tatasciore admiring a model plane with air pioneer Glenn Messer, who was honored by the U.S. Post Office last year for his pioneer flights carrying the mail in the 20's.
Don't forget, if YOUR club wants some free national publicity here, send me the pictures and we'll run a "Club-of-the-Month" on them.
DISTRICT V CLUB OF THE MONTH
This club was featured once before by me in 1974 in our old AMA monthly mailing, AMA News, when Bob and Sue Crysler were beginning the GCRC, and again now as a much larger and even finer AMA chartered club than four years ago. I want to present to you the Gold Coast Radio Controllers in Delray Beach, Florida. Mr. Art Johnson, our AMA Associate VP for the State of Florida is their newsletter editor and has sent me the information.
In recent years the GCRC has mushroomed into one of the busiest, most prestigious AMA clubs in south Florida. They are the ONLY one in District V that has an OFFICIAL AMA show team.
Here's a photo from last year of their splendid show team. (L-R) Irv Allison, Ernie Kraft, Terry Richter, Art Johnson, Mario Yederlinic, Ben Roosen, Bob Kitson. All those little airplanes lined up match each other. Their show team performs all over, gets great local publicity.
Each year the GCRC features a widely heralded "Gold Coast R/C Jamboree" Scale contest of vintage airplanes and World War I Scale.
Here are last year's winners (L-R) Bob Temple, Terry Richter, Wayne Ripple, Ray Colelli, Lee Robinson, Mario Yederlinic, Jack Phaler. This year, 1978, they just finished another jamboree and in WW I Sport Scale, 1st was Ray Colelli, then Mario Yederlinic again, and Bob Temple. In Golden Age Scale Mr. Bob Temple won first, then Gary Palmer and Bob Kitson. In Blue Max Fun Fly it was Terry Richter, Ray Colelli, and Jerry Stoloff.
VI DISTRICT REPORT
Glenn Lee District VI Vice‑President 819 Mandrake Batavia, IL 60510
Associate Vice‑Presidents David A. Amberg, 734 Arcadia Rd., Valparaiso, IN 46383 Roger Gores, 729 N. 2nd St., Quincy, IL 62301 Robert Gill, 276 Sutter Ln., Springfield, IL 62704 Frank L. Hughes, 700 N. 4th St., Kansas City, MO 64116 Edwin W. Pryer, 1240 Mayfair Dr., Lexington, KY 40504 Robert E. Stagner, 1838 Seigler Ct., Poplar Bluff, MO 63901 Phillip Sullivan, 3021 Spring Valley Ct., Anderson, IN 46011
Column time again. At last the snow is gone, green grass is coming, flying fields are being rolled, and a few airplanes have been up.
More mall static shows are scheduled. I went to Bloomington, IL last March 18 for the Central Illinois Radio Society (SIRS) club show. Many excellent airplanes were displayed, several of them good enough for competition at Toledo or the Chicago Expo. I tried to convince them of this, but they seemed reluctant to compete in the larger shows. I did see a couple of them at Toledo; I believe Jim Watson placed with his Pylon Racer. I hope you will bring a few airplanes up to Expo next October.
This weekend I went to Rockford, IL for the Rock Valley RC Flyers club show at Cherryvale Mall. The week after this I attend an Executive Council meeting, and then Peoria, IL has a mall show the next weekend! That will about do it for this year—I have to get some work done on airplanes and home.
The Rockford show was a huge success. This was the sixth one they have had, and has grown from six contestants the first time to well over 100 now. A flying demonstration was put on before the mall opened, and included the big Du‑Bro cardboard model, heli‑copters, and other RC models.
One of the newsletters I receive comes from the Louisville Radio Control Club. Kerry Coyle, secretary, wrote up an item that I think is worth repeating. I'll copy directly from their newsletter:
"Hey, all you 'old timers' in the LRCC. Have you noticed what has been happening to your club in the past two years? First, those new members who sit over in the corner start talking to everyone who would listen into building a sailplane and coming out to Chenoweth Park to fly with them.
"Then, Ed Tasman talked our bearded friend into going to a local pond to try sailing one of his foam boats one Sunday afternoon. From that, many people learned what Ed had known for a long time—sailing can be fun!
"Now several of us have purchased dune buggies to run around our yards when we have nothing else to do.
"What does all this have to do with the 'old timers' who go to Floyds Fork every week or two to get in a couple of hours with the 'good old boys'—well, maybe nothing, but I hope everything.
"Because of the great interest in radio control 'everything' in the last 10 years, almost anything you have an interest in can be operated by those little boxes with a flag on it. Which brings me to my point. There is such a variety of interest in our club now, that it would be foolish not to take advantage of it.
"Beginning this year, we will let various groups in our club 'sponsor' one of our meetings during the summer months. These meetings will be held at the sites so that demonstrations and explanations can be given by those interested in that particular field of interest. Everyone in attendance will be given a chance to fly, drive or sail whatever is being demonstrated.
"Even if you don't have a particular interest in the subject of the meeting that month, our normal business will be taken care of in an abbreviated meeting at the monthly site. Everything will be spelled out in our newsletter before the meeting. We feel that these 'on site' meetings will help everyone in the club understand what turns everyone else on. You might see something you didn't know could be that much fun."
Sounds like an excellent program to spread interest and information.
I belong to the Fox Valley Aero Club of St. Charles, IL. Most of the members are RC fliers, but we also have Control Line and Free Flight fliers, too. The club is going to have two asphalt runways put in, 16 feet wide by 200 feet long. I hope to have pictures of this by next month.
I was fortunate that there were very few Control Line models displayed. Will EXPO II be the same?
During the AMA meeting, discussion of flying safety and insurance problems and costs were held. It is imperative that we all concern ourselves with safety in model aviation. It is becoming more and more costly to obtain insurance—75¢ in 1975 and over $2.50 in 1978. The best way to hold down costs is to reduce claims and this means improved FLYING SAFETY.
Another item that was discussed was re‑districting lower Michigan to District III. The AMRCC of Michigan are very much in favor of this and a proposal to this effect has been forwarded to AMA HQ and the members of the Executive Council. I asked that Wayne Yeager do some more research on the other clubs to obtain their feelings on this. At this time I have had very little said against it. This item will certainly come up at the April Council Meeting. If you are against or for this proposal, either as a club or individual, I would like to hear from you.
I was fortunate enough to have the seventh president of AMA seated at the same banquet table. Kenneth Heldt served the AMA some time ago and his interest is still very keen. It was a real pleasure to meet him and his wife. We had quite a time discussing all those old Joe Ott kits.
I also got to meet Karen Toebe, Vice‑Pres. of WINGS and her husband, Carl. WOMEN INTERNATIONAL GLIDER SOARING is a very fine group of ladies who are encouraging the participation of women in our sport. Lila Stamm is the president and Joan Noble is the secretary‑treasurer. Anyone interested in becoming part of this up‑and‑coming organization can contact Karen at 6128 Mascot Dr., Lansing, MI 48910. Ladies, this is your chance to become a member of a fine, spirited group. Even if you don't fly you can join and I am sure they would welcome your support.
VII DISTRICT REPORT
Kenneth F. Morris District VII Vice‑President 1032 Iowa Avenue Muscatine, IA 52761
Associate Vice‑Presidents James A. Clark, Rte. 3, Cedar Rapids, IA 52401 Frank Mersereau, 1410 W. Park Ave., New Berlin, WI 53151 Tom Pinto, 1122 Seeger, Sterling Heights, MI 48078 Wm. Torstrick, 644 Constance, St. Joseph, MI 49085 Harry Thorner, 3028 Lombard Trail, Crystal, MN 55422 Howard J. VanFossen, 1709 7th St. N.E., Rochester, MN 55901 Wayne Yeager, 38725 Castle, Romulus, MI 48174
The District VII East Meeting is now history. I want to thank the Lansing CARDS for their hospitality and also to congratulate them on their ability to sponsor and put together EXPO II and the AMA meeting. It was unfortunate that the weather didn't cooperate as I'm sure there would have been more people to take part. The models were excellent and the banquet was super. It was unfortunate that there were very few Control Line models displayed. Will EXPO II be the same?
I just received a nice letter from the Blue Eagles RC Show Team in Webster, MN. Jim Taylor is the manager, and if you are out in the sticks and need a show put on, let Jim know. You can write to him at RR 1, Box 157C, Webster, MN 55088.
I was unable to make the infamous Toledo Conference, but I did get a good report on it from some of the local club members who were lucky enough to make it. If you were there for the show you may already know that the Lansing CARDS were presented the AMA Award of Excellence. I feel this is an award that has to be earned and not just handed...
AIR SHOW TEAM STATUS REPORT
Now barely a year old, the AMA Air Show Team program boasts a total of 20 teams coming into the 1978 flying season. The 20 teams represent some 205 AMA members in nine districts and 13 states. Twelve active teams in 1977 were responsible for promoting model aviation to the general public across the country, presenting over 232 performances before thousands of pleased spectators. Besides educational, informative flying demonstrations, original routines involving highly skilled, well-choreographed aerial and ground acts, elaborate sound, costuming and cues were presented.
Besides hours of practice and building, some Show Teams are constantly working on new ideas, different types of aircraft and new acts to entertain audiences. Sure, it may seem like mental telepathy — two Show Teams have come up flying “Big Mac”: the first designed by Kelly Eberle, Flying Dutchmen Aero Team, Control Line, at the International Toy Show, Philadelphia last September; the second designed and built by Bob Roach, Spirit America Air Show Team, Radio Control, at the 24th Annual Toledo Exposition Building.
The beginnings: Air Show Teams’ interest in spacious new shopping malls has now produced welcome team static displays. Teams averaged two to five static shows per month, thus giving good exposure and creating interest in aeromodeling during the long non-flying winter. During a static display by the STARS Air Show Team at North Star Mall, San Antonio, Texas, random samplings and interviews indicated over 25,000 people visited the various displays. Merchants at the mall indicated a sharp rise in modeling-related sales as a direct result of the show. That’s at least one of the ASTs’ efforts. Among other rewards have been requests for air shows from the mayor of Lytle, Texas; a Chamber of Commerce representative, Castroville, Texas; an RC club representative, Tampico, Mexico; a hobby shop owner; an Austin, Texas representative; and Piper Aircraft’s Agricultural Division.
It’s plain to see interest in model aviation in Texas is growing. Air Show Teams, with generous industry sponsors, hold fully programmed flying shows, demonstrations, model-building classes, lectures, static shows, interviews on television and radio — model aeronautics is promoted to the general public. Newspapers cover events in detail, including the type of equipment used and the kinds of equipment needed to build models.
Future picture: 50 show teams across the country promoting model aviation. The new concept has already received over 70 requests to become AMA/HIA Air Show Teams. Although qualification requires a great deal of skill, professionalism and promotional ability, hopes are high that ASTs will quadruple the number of performances in ’78.
Meanwhile, from the merely sampling-type response show teams have received to date, the aeromodelers’ program helps publicize the hobby, has brought great recreational enjoyment to young and old alike, and is a source of great optimism in view of the quickening pace of American life.
Representative Gus Yatron, Pennsylvania — Congressional Record: model aviation has undoubtedly stimulated interest in the hobby and has provided us a group of men who can work closely in coming events. John Parker, Chapter President, American Business Clubs, Reading, Pennsylvania: we can be assured future new members in the hobby will come out of the ranks because of the show. J. Davis, President, Reading Jaycees, Inc., Reading, Pennsylvania.
Crowds — what the AMA Air Show Team program is about — gives the general public a chance to witness first-hand the excitement and challenge of air-modeling. A mixture of specialty aircraft such as flying doghouses, flying lawnmowers, flying flags, plus scale conventional models, makes well-rounded shows.
Picture exhibitions put on by the Florida Air Show Team ... [text continues] Metro Magazine aired October 23rd November One of the best ideas that has been used successfully recently is one that will help every club's pocketbook. The origin of the idea is not known to me but the Strat-O-Bats and Boeing Hawks have used it very successfully for more than a year.
All of us are aware of the high cost of trophies, especially when it comes time to put on a contest, fun fly, or any other activity where nice awards are desirable. It is not uncommon to spend hundreds of dollars on trophies at a single event.
Howard Phillips, president of the Boeing Hawks, has developed the idea of recycling trophies into a science. Basically, the idea is to obtain trophies that people are no longer interested in keeping and using them for modeling activities. Howard has gone a step further than just getting modelers to clean out their closets. Last month Howard put notices in the company paper and the local newspaper asking that anyone having trophies they were willing to give to a good cause to call him. He explained that it was for a non-profit club engaged in modeling activities and that all kinds of trophies were needed. The response was terrific. Howard now has upward of 250 trophies in his basement. He has a lot of stories to tell about the activity and maybe sometime we can get him to relate some of the best ones for us.
Howard interchanges parts and cleans them up and puts new plates on the trophies to come up with usable items. He then groups them for the events and is ready to go. About the biggest expense is the plate and an occasional new top—still a fraction of the cost of new trophies. Some he has received are 36" high and some are silver cups, in addition to the more common types.
How does it work? Quite well. Some people object to having mixed types of trophies on the prize table at give-away time, but when it is on display at home, there is no way to tell what the others looked like. The small amount of work involved can be done by anyone with the incentive. Give it a try—the supply is immense.
Some people in the district occasionally have trouble with something that they ask for in AMA HQ. The number of these incidents that I hear about has dropped to nil in the last three years, but once in a while something does go wrong. Here are some ideas to help when things don't go right for you.
First is prevention. When requesting things at HQ, put each thing you want or are asking for on a separate piece of paper. AMA HQ is a big operation and spread out in a number of rooms. If you combine a lot of things into one letter, it makes things more complicated and takes more time in HQ. The same thing goes for questions you are asking. Split them up into topics and put them on different pieces of paper. Also, and most important, be sure your name and address is on each piece of paper and not just on the envelope.
Second, if you don't get some kind of answer in three weeks, follow up with an inquiry. Be specific. Tell them what you asked for and when. Give as much information as you can. Remember that at some times of the year mail comes into HQ in trunk loads.
Lastly, if the follow-up doesn't get a response, call HQ. On the West Coast, before 8 AM, it will cost you less than a buck and it will be before 11 AM there. When you call be sure to be specific about what you are calling about. Remember that the workload is split up into segments by subject, and is handled by many people. If that fails, call your district Vice President.
AMA News
AMA OUTDOOR FF CONTEST ENDS MAY 31
Finish up your flights and send in the times to Ed Whitten by the end of June for inclusion in the Academy's SPRING EARLY BIRD Free Flight Postal Contest.
VINTAGE AERO'S NEW "BEGINNER'S MODEL BUILDING & FLYING PROGRAM"
Hey, gang, good things are coming our way! VINTAGE AERO, a model kit manufacturing firm in New Jersey, is really interested in helping us, and has developed a complete low-cost package for clubs and schools. This new program is not a one-shot deal. It is designed to help beginners progress to Junior modelers. The program has been tested with 4-H groups.
Their $15 bulk pack consists of materials, plans, and instructions for 15 "Mini Square Things," a well-written and very useful Instructor's Guide that covers setting up the course, building, flying and contests; several display sheets on basic aerodynamics; Eagle Award Certificates of Merit for each modeler, and four Vintage Aero kits of more advanced models as contest prizes.
VINTAGE AERO is, as well, helping groups sponsor contests for their 13" Mini-profile scale models. We especially like the Nesmith Cougar. The prestigious Glastonbury (Connecticut) Modelers has scheduled its first formal event at their June 18th contest. Models may be scratch-built or from Mini-profile kits.
Other manufacturers will possibly join in and offer their kits in a similar manner. We certainly hope so.
Progress of VINTAGE AERO's program will be reported by Earl VanGorder in Flying Models magazine in a new column for beginners and Junior modelers. (I told you things were catching on!) We'll give you the word on the latest doings in JUNIOR FLIGHT!, too. How about all of you kids taking this issue to one of your favorite teachers at school and asking him or her to get in touch with Phil Koopman, Vintage Aero, 1 The Glen, Tenafly, NJ 07670 (201-568-7955)? Vintage Aero does not sell retail, but the bulk packages are available at hobby shops and can be purchased directly by institutions.
RON WILLIAMS' NEW BOOK!
And here's something else right down our alley. This is a hardcover book to be published by Simon & Schuster that introduces you to INDOOR building and flying. It will take you step by wonderful step all the way from a youngster's simplest beginning model through Easy B's, Pennylplanes, and Manhattans to the expert's International Class FAI microfilm job. This coming book was first mentioned in the March 1976 issue of STAR SKIPPERS. I've watched its progress, and everything is covered. There will be beautifully clear drawings, full instructions, and fascinating anecdotes that let you in on what this modeling fraternity is all about. What a relief it will be when new comers ask questions: "How do you roll the motor stick tube?" "See the book!" "How do you pour microfilm?" "See the book!" Yes, indeed! I'll recommend this new book just the way I recommended John Kaufmann's "FLYING, HAND-LAUNCHED GLIDERS," published by William Morrow & Co. I've seen a lot of model airplane how-to books in my day, and these are the only two, so far, that I can fully recommend. The others try to cover too much, and, as a result, they fail to cover anything adequately.
BUILDING THE "GUMDROP"
Once again we'd like to mention that you can receive a complete set of the series that appeared over the past several months on how to build a really good SRPSM, or Simple Rubber Powered Stick Model. Its name, of course, is the "Gumdrop." It would make a very good club or school project, or just for you, yourself, if you're way out in the boondocks. Just send Ed Whitten 50¢ in coin or stamps to cover Xeroxing and mailing costs.
OBJETS D'ART
Speaking of Ron Williams reminds us we should tell you that during the entire month of March several of his indoor models were on exhibition as works of art, which indeed they are, at the Allan Stone Gallery in New York City. What kind of models? Indoor Flying Scale and Indoor Endurance types. Now the galleries are in business to sell pieces of art. Yes, four were sold. Interestingly, the very attractive scale models went unsold. Three museum microfilm models, two FAI's and a Baby R.O.G., and a Manhattan Formula Cabin were sold. All models displayed sold and had been flown often, each FAI having flown more than 30 minutes. The Manhattan was Ron's famous "Yeloise," which sold for the highest amount, $600.
We've always known that good quality models are a combination of exquisite workmanship and intrinsic beauty. Now we have another reason for keeping them out of the rafters. A few of these collectors' items were sold in their own glass case... things of beauty to be enjoyed for a long, long time. It is a little sad, however, that their most artistic attribute, that of flight, has been denied them.
That's it guys and gals, see you all next month.
Transcribed from original scans by AI. Minor OCR errors may remain.
