AMA News

Synopsis — Executive Council Meeting, August 1, 1983

The following summarizes actions of the AMA Executive Council meeting held in Chicopee, MA. A copy of the official minutes may be obtained upon request from AMA HQ; minutes will become official after Council review at the next Council meeting in November (available approximately November 15).

It should be noted that 14 Council members were in attendance. The President did not vote except to break ties (there were none).

Attendance

• President: John Grigg, Lockport, NY
• Executive Vice‑President: Jim McNeill, Birmingham, AL
• Executive Director: John Worth, Fairfax, VA
• Vice‑President District I: Ed Izzo, Holliston, MA
• VP‑II: John Byrne, Bayside, NY
• VP‑III: Dave Brown, Hamilton, OH
• VP‑IV: Chuck Foreman, Mechanicsville, VA
• VP‑V: Bill Mathews, Birmingham, AL
• VP‑VI: Bob Underwood, St. Louis, MO
• VP‑VII: Hardy Brodersen, Birmingham, MI
• VP‑VIII: John Clemens, Dallas, TX
• VP‑IX: Travis McGinnis, Arvada, CO
• VP‑X: Jim Scarborough, Rancho Palos Verdes, CA
• VP‑XI: Ed McCollough, Portland, OR

HQ executive staff present: Vince Mankowski (Assistant Executive Director), Joyce Hager (Executive Secretary), Gisele Jackson (Comptroller).

Guests: Bev Wisniewski (Nats Executive Committee), Betty Streeter (District X AVP), Louise Izzo.

The meeting was called to order at 9:00 a.m., with the President chairing.

Actions and Reports

1. Introductory Remarks

• The President thanked Executive Council members and volunteers who worked during the Nats.
• Announced formation of a new FAI Control Line Team Selection Committee (including Speed and Team Race) and the need for a Scale Team Selection Committee.
• Mentioned the possibility of running the 1984 Control Line World Championships back‑to‑back with the 1984 Nats; following discussion it was approved unanimously that the Nats basic entry fee be waived for foreign contestants.

1. Minutes

• Minutes of the April 30 Executive Council meeting were accepted as amended concerning use of the headquarters rental space. Vote in favor except District XI.

1. Executive Vice‑President Report

• Recommendations included use of the headquarters rental space for museum purposes, and a report on insurance costs for the Barrera museum collection and FAI expenses.
• Recommended AMA support for the 1983 FAI General Conference hosted by the National Aeronautic Association (Los Angeles).
• Motion to contribute $1,000 to the NAA for AMA support approved by vote of 9–3 (all in favor except Districts I, II, V; District X abstained).
• Motion to ratify the Executive Director's decision (approved earlier by the President and Executive Vice‑President) approved 12–1 (District XI dissented).

1. Committee Reports

A. Nominations

• Chairman: Chuck Foreman.
• Reported on July 31 committee meeting.
• Nominations noted: incumbents nominated for several vice‑presidencies; two candidates for Presidency (John Grigg and John Clemens); two for District IV (Howard Crispin and Charles Spear); two for District IX (Travis McGinnis and Bill Bieda).
• Chuck Foreman announced his resignation effective December 31, 1983; the District IV election will fill the balance of the unexpired term.

B. Noise

• Chairman: Ed Izzo.
• Noise tests successfully carried out at the RC Aerobatic Team Selection Finals in June and with FAI Masters contestants at the '83 Nats.
• Procedures developed from these experiences will be used for the October RC World Championships in Pensacola.

C. Worker Recognition

• Chairman: Travis McGinnis.
• Reported productive meeting with sponsors (Carl and Beth Goldberg) on an award program funded by an investment program to recognize approximately six people per year, based on AMA selection criteria.
• First awards (for unsung heroes) expected in 1984.

• Glen Sigafoose Memorial Scholarships (1982): Four students selected co‑winners. Background: Glen Sigafoose, founder of Sig Manufacturing Company, died in 1980. The Sig Memorial Scholarship Fund is administered by AMA; any AMA member who applied for an AMA scholarship is automatically considered. For information: AMA HQ, 1810 Samuel Morse Drive, Reston, VA 22090, Attn: Joyce Hager.
• David Nault, Lynn, MA, received $500 to assist him. He is a mechanical engineering major at the University of Rhode Island.

D. Safety

• No formal committee report; discussion followed a memo from Safety Chairman Don Lowe concerning large models.
• Because Lowe was heavily committed with travel, it was approved unanimously that Jim McNeill serve as Safety Committee chairman, with Don Lowe remaining on the committee. The President also appointed Paul Samaras to the committee.

E. Safety Code

• Discussion of Bob Underwood's suggestions to clarify Control Line criteria for air shows showed a need for better definition; to be further considered at the next meeting.

F. Film

• Chairman John Byrne noted the need for a new safety film to illustrate good and perhaps bad practices. General support and recommendation for further development.

1. New Contest Boards

• Approved 12–1 (District XI dissenting) to replace the current RC Contest Board with four separate RC boards (Soaring, Aerobatics, Racing, and Helicopters), effective January 1, 1984.

1. Contest Board Procedures

• Need to revise procedures to ensure more timely rule book publication.
• Consideration given to making the next rule book effective in 1985 (to allow 6–9 months advance availability).
• Deferred to next Council meeting to clarify Council vs. Contest Board jurisdiction.

1. Future Nats Sites

• Possibilities discussed: returning to Westover AFB (MA) every 3–4 years, a Michigan site, an Oklahoma site, return to Glenview Naval Air Station (near Chicago). Further exploration directed.

1. Museum Guidelines

• Hardy Brodersen reported meeting with a Detroit Art Institute officer; resulted in an Acquisition Guidelines booklet for the AMA Museum Curator.
• Need to define AMA Museum's status within AMA; further discussion planned.

1. Sanction Fees

• Approved 12–1 (District V dissenting) to increase sanction fees from $5 to $10 (except for Record Trials), effective January 1, 1984.
• Additional fee income to be credited to the Competition Services Department for improvement of sanction services.

1. Sanction Classification

• Discussed distance separation between AA and AAA meets; no action taken. Problem to be handled by adjacent District contest coordinators and Vice Presidents.

1. FAI Proposals / Representation

• By consensus, agreed to submit a U.S. proposal that future FAI proposals be submitted each year in time for the annual FAI Bureau meeting in spring, be approved by the Bureau, and be published (preferably by May 1) to provide at least six months' notice before the December FAI meeting.
• Recommended continued service of current U.S. delegate George Buso as official voting delegate; appointment approved 9–4 (Districts III, V, VIII, X dissented).

1. IMAA Safety

• Discussed AMA Safety Committee member Don Lowe's report and need for specific recommendations.
• Agreed to send Lowe's report to IMAA President Don Godfrey; Hardy Brodersen to attend the August IMAA annual meet to observe on behalf of the Council.
• Jim McNeill expected to convene the Safety Committee prior to the end of September.

1. Site Owner Newsletter

• Bob Underwood to discuss the subject with AMA PR Director Geoff Styles for consideration at the next meeting.

1. One‑Day Memberships

• Discussion of a recommendation against the proposal (approved at October '82 Council meeting) by the AMA insurance broker.
• Motion to rescind one‑day memberships approved 11–1 (District III dissenting; Executive VP abstaining).

1. “Consent” Agenda Proposal

• Proposal to adopt all non‑controversial agenda items by a single motion (with any contested item moved to the regular agenda) proposed for future meetings.

1. Heavy Model Insurance

• Noted insurance for models over 55 pounds may be available at higher cost, but conflict with AMA Safety Code exists.
• By consensus, no action until AMA Safety Committee makes recommendations on IMAA safety guidelines for models heavier than 55 pounds.

1. Grand Opening Budget

• A budget (including contingency) unanimously approved for decorations, refreshments, and travel/lodging by Council members for the September 24–25 weekend.

1. Museum Curator Budget

• Unanimously approved contracting the Curator at $5,000 per year (consultant basis) and budgeting up to $5,000 per year for museum expenses.

1. Council Meeting Expense Allowance

• Approved 9–3 (Districts I, V, X dissenting; District VII abstaining) that car rental be reimbursable only if:
• bus, taxi, or other commercial transportation is not available on a timely basis, or
• car rental can serve three or more Council members, or
• reimbursement limited to the cost of commercial transportation.

1. FAI Budget Allocation

• President Grigg appointed a committee (chair: Ed Izzo; members: Hardy Brodersen, Bob Underwood, Dave Brown, John Worth) to study the subject and report at the next meeting.

1. Self‑Injury Report

• Headquarters and insurance company reports discussed. Any recommendations should relate realistically to cause and effect and be considered first by the AMA Safety Committee and/or the Executive Council.

1. AMA Cargo Vehicle

• Clarified by consensus that the Executive Director has authority to sell the vehicle; an expeditious sale was recommended.

1. FAI Award Expenses

• Unanimously agreed to approve travel expenses for Dick Weber, winner of the FAI's Penuaud Award, to attend the FAI General Conference in Los Angeles in September to receive the award in person.

1. Financial Services

• A proposal from a banking institution to offer financial services (including loans) to members at no risk to AMA was approved for further discussion at the next meeting.

1. “Airfoil” Tournament Program

• A promotional program based on variations of a one‑model design concept was approved for consideration at the next meeting.

1. Personality Interviews

• Hardy Brodersen noted a proposal for taping interviews; to be presented at the next meeting.

1. Awards

• A Superior Service Award was approved for presentation at the AMA Grand Opening; publicity to be withheld until after the presentation.

1. Next Meeting

• November 5–6 approved for Reston, VA (vote 8–2).

---

Other AMA News and Notices

Glen Sigafoose Memorial Scholarship

• Four students were selected as co‑winners of the Glen Sigafoose Memorial Scholarships (1982). The fund honors Glen Sigafoose (founder of Sig Manufacturing Company), who died in 1980.
• Administration: Academy of Model Aeronautics. Any student AMA member who applied for an AMA scholarship is automatically considered for the Sig Scholarship (based on modeling performance and financial need). No fixed number of winners.
• Contact: AMA HQ, 1810 Samuel Morse Drive, Reston, VA 22090, Attn: Joyce Hager.
• David Nault, Lynn, MA, received $500; he is a mechanical engineering major at the University of Rhode Island.

In Memoriam

#### George Wood (“Woody”) Clapp — AMA 35491 (1940–1983)

• District II and the aviation community lost Woody Clapp on July 22, 1983, in the crash of his full‑scale Sopwith Triplane near Allegany, NY.
• Mrs. Carolyn Clapp's message (reproduced from the STARS‑DUST newsletter) expressed the family's profound sorrow. The message recounts the crash circumstances and asks for remembrance and sympathy.

#### John Kanakos — AMA 52975 (1913–1983)

• John Kanakos died on the morning of August 6, 1983, after safely flying and landing his tethered RC helicopter at the Model Aviation Day celebration in Rockefeller Plaza, NYC.
• John was active with The Long Island Hover Lovers and contributed extensively to model helicopter promotion. Condolences extended to his wife Fay and family.

M.A.D. VII (Model Aviation Day)

• The seventh Model Aviation Day was proclaimed by Mayor Ed Koch and held on August 6, 1983, with the largest display of model aircraft ever at Rockefeller Plaza. The event drew widespread public attention and provided valuable PR for model aviation.

---

AMA District III Frequency Information

If you have encountered frequency problems or solutions, contact Jim so he can share information with the district.

OHIO

• Hamilton (2): (1) .08; (1) .98
• Butler (14): (2) .06; (2) .10; (1) .14; (2) .18; (1) .22; (4) .46; (1) .78
• Cuyahoga (15): (4) .02; (1) .18; (2) .22; (1) .24; (2) .32; (1) .50; (5) .41; (1) .58; (1) .70
• Erie (1): (1) .64
• Summit (8): (2) .02; (1) .42; (1) .46
• Portage (1): (1) .50
• Medina (6): (2) .42; (2) .46; (2) .50
• Morrow (1): (1) .20
• Trumbull (1): (1) .420
• Pike (1): (1) .120
• Montgomery (1): (1) .100
• Ashtabula (1): (1) .060

PENNSYLVANIA

• Philadelphia (9): (3) .06; (3) .58; (1) .86; (2) .88; (2) .96
• Columbia (1): (1) .100
• Monroe (1): (1) .36
• Schuylkill (1): (1) .42
• Franklin (2): (1) .54; (1) .74
• Erie (6): (1) .54; (2) .62; (1) .64; (1) .68; (1) .70
• Lackawanna (1): (1) .58
• Lehigh (1): (1) .98

WEST VIRGINIA

• Campbell (1): (1) .14
• Ohio (1): (1) .86

From the Pittsburgh ARCS: District III Seminar, Trim Talk and Pattern Flying Demo

• Buffet banquet: Holiday Inn, Weirton, WV — Saturday, October 29, 7:00 p.m. Seminar led by District VP Dave Brown and AVP Gene Shekleky.
• Sunday, October 30: Open flying and pattern flying demo at ARCS flying field (20 minutes from the Motor Inn). Trim help and demonstrations provided.
• Motel group rates: single $28, double $35 per night. Call (304) 723‑5522 for AMA Group Rate.
• Contact: Jerry Fink, ARCS Secretary — (412) 561‑8944.

---

IV District Report (Delaware • District of Columbia • Maryland • North Carolina • Virginia)

Chuck Foreman District IV Vice‑President 607 Pohite Drive, Mechanicsville, VA 23111

Associate Vice‑Presidents

• Wayne Abernethy, 9205 Cameron, 3, Upper Marlboro, MD 20708
• Bob Champion, 205 Tipton Rd., Newport News, VA 23606
• Howard Crispin, 611 Beachwood, Charlottesville, VA 22901
• V. Bill Henn, 200 Tivoli Road, Charlotte, NC 28210
• Scotty Moser, 11 Orchard Lane, Wilmington, DE 19809
• John Penson, 7012 Elvira Court, Falls Church, VA 22042
• Charles Spear, 253 Holly Lane, Mocksville, NC 27028

Frequency Coordinator

• Paul Yacobucci, 6468 Winthrop Dr., Fayetteville, NC 28303 — Evening: (919) 488‑5986

Resignation of District IV Vice‑President

• Chuck Foreman announced his resignation as District IV Vice‑President and withdrew his acceptance to run for AMA President. His resignation is effective December 31, 1983.
• Foreman explained that he will spend most of the next two and a half years outside the United States on business projects and cannot fairly represent District IV at Council meetings or make club visits.
• He suggested Howard Crispin (one of his AVPs) to complete his term effective August 31, 1983; if not possible, Foreman will serve until December 31, 1983, at which time an election or appointment should fill the balance of his term.
• The AMA Council accepted his resignation and will place Howard Crispin and Charles Spear on the ballot to finish the unexpired term.
• Foreman thanked fellow vice‑presidents and Council members and urged continued support and ideas from members.

Additional notes

• A report of a stolen RC model in Northern Virginia: Andrew Benjamin (301 Roosevelt Ct., N.E., Vienna, VA 22180) reported a Circus Hobbies Acro Knight stolen from his car. Details of the model and equipment are provided (RX, servos, finish). Members asked to be vigilant.

---

District V Report

Bill Mathews District V Vice‑President 1718 Somerset Circle, Birmingham, AL 35213 — (205) 879‑5250

Associate Vice‑Presidents

• Greg Poe, Rt. 4, 166 Perry Dr., Smyrna, TN 37167
• Richard Jackson, 2118 Thornfield Ct., N. Charleston, SC 29405
• Arthur Johnson, 932 Banyan Dr., Delray Beach, FL 33444
• Joseph McLain, 5 R.R. 00866, Box 1532, Fajardo, PR 00648
• Ed Moorman, 70 Fifth St., Shalimar, FL 32579
• Harry Shearan, PO Box 676, Oneonta, AL 35121
• Tom Thacker, 1401 N. Hairston Rd., No. 38, Stone Mountain, GA 30083
• Larry Wells, 5075 Waverly Dr., Jackson, MS 39206

Frequency Coordinator

• Burnis Fields, 1096 Ontario St., Jacksonville, FL 32205 — Day: (904) 388‑8662

District V Notes

• Many reported enjoying the 1983 Nats. Juan Romero (Pattern flier, Fort Lauderdale) received a Nats hat and patch after missing the event.
• Indian River Kontrol Society (IRKS), Melbourne, FL, held eight contests by August.
• North Fulton Flying Circus (Atlanta area) featured in RC Report magazine (August 1983).
• Visits to clubs in Orlando area noted; the West Orange Sunfliers broke ground on a sun shelter and control tower at their field.
• Scale Team Selection in Louisville (Aug 12–14) — organized by the Tom Sawyer Modelers Association and hosted at E. P. "Tom" Sawyer State Park. Judges and CDs named. Teams selected:
• Control Line: Jeff Perez, Mike Gretz, Ron Sears (Ed Rhodes alternate).
• RC: Skip Mast, Bob Underwood, Steve Sapor (Cliff Tacie alternate). Cliff chosen as team manager; Dolly Vischer assistant.
• Honored predecessor Jim Sears with a service award.
• Kansas City Indoor Fliers: monthly sessions (Dec–Feb), Saturdays 3–5 pm; contact Roger Schweder at 913‑648‑4265.
• Kansas City Helicopter Contest results (KCRC): winners Greg Sawyer (Expert), Dave Cosby (Advanced), Mark Been (Beginners). Contact Dave Cosby at 314‑438‑5683 for helicopter help.
• SOAR’s Great Race VIII (sailplane cross‑country) attracted 23 teams; winning team completed course in 3 hours 32 minutes.

Good News / Bad News

• Material submitted for publication often arrives too late for deadlines. Clubs are advised to provide at least two months' lead time for event promotion.

Little Known Facts (humor)

• A light, humorous piece (reprinted from The Flypaper, Lafayette Cloud Jockeys) pokes fun at propeller history and uses. (Excerpt: “Prop is actually a slang term derived from the full Latin word Propeller… The study of props… Ancient Greeks…”) — safe flight! — Bob

---

Closing Notes

• A new safety patch is being developed for club safety officers.
• Paul Samaras (Lakewood, CO) suggested painting prop tips for better visibility; he has been appointed to the National Safety Committee.
• The AMA encourages clubs to appoint safety officers and to continue promoting safe and enjoyable aeromodeling activities.

ALL FOR NOW.

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