Now you're Talking
Letter to the Editor
I have read the numerous articles you have published in recent issues of your magazine that have alluded to the decline of youth interest in model aviation. They were very thought-provoking and prompted me to pass on my view of the alleged problem, for whatever it may be worth.
My love for airplanes began in the late 1920s and the 1930s, when the romance of aviation was at its highest ebb for those of us in the youth bracket. To see an airplane at close range was a sight to behold and to talk about for days. I began by carving solid models out of boxwood. A monoplane was almost a rarity and a low-wing racing type was a prize winner to see. Hobby shops did not exist as we know them now, especially in rural areas. Free-flight models were in the beginning stages of development and not easily affordable to most of us. I can honestly say that this early fascination with airplanes was the seed that led to an aviation career for me.
My real interest in model airplane activities blossomed while I worked with many colleagues at the Naval Air Station at Alameda, California. Control-line (CL) flying was rapidly becoming popular. My first model engine, an Ohlsson .19, cost me one day's pay as a journeyman aviation metalsmith. In today's economy, a day's pay could buy you a much better equivalent engine. One of my conclusions is that the cost of our hobby is not a serious factor in attracting newcomers.
Our group was so successful flying our control-line models that it soon became necessary to form a formal club to manage safety when flying in areas where spectators were present. Also, a neighborhood noise problem developed. The logical solution was to petition the City Council of Alameda for a separate flying facility built exclusively for model flying. It was accomplished, and the field is still in use today as part of our Parks and Recreation Department—more than 50 years later.
The club went on to join a Northern California Association of Model Airplane Clubs. Membership was high and youngsters were active participants.
Mr. William Osborne of Alameda, one of our most dedicated and enthusiastic members, soon foresaw the need for a challenging program for youth pursuing all types of modeling activities. To this end he has devoted many thousands of volunteer hours over 50 years to instructing and overseeing this beneficial endeavor.
His primary concern was to have a safe program for all involved. A perfect record of safe operation has existed at the Alameda field for more than 50 years. Insurance has been provided for all participants.
He holds frequent classes each year in the building of gliders and small control-line airplanes of his own design, which youth and adults are proud to build. Kits are provided at his own expense, with the proviso that students purchase insurance for use of the field. Used Cox engines are refurbished by Mr. Osborne. A four-hour class (with some homework) usually completes a kit. Flying instruction is then given on Sunday mornings until the student is fully capable on his own.
Because of this structured and city-approved program, Mr. Osborne receives assistance from many sources in the community, such as civic organizations, businesses and industries, companies, individuals, and model manufacturers such as Cox.
Mr. Osborne also provides introductory sessions within many lower grades of our public school system. He arranges CL flight demonstrations for multiple school classes' participation. These are greatly appreciated.
In 1982 the flying field was named the William Osborne Model Flying Field in honor of his many years of volunteer service to the City of Alameda.
I believe it is obvious that the stimulation derived from group participation is the key ingredient to attracting newcomers and maintaining interest in any hobby, regardless of the cost involved. Also, as is the case with Mr. Osborne's program, parental participation is asked for and welcomed during all phases of the classes as well as in the flying.
Community support is important. We are fortunate in Alameda that we have always enjoyed full council and mayoral support throughout the years. Their presence at the various activities has impressed our youth participants very much.
We do believe that the City of Alameda, California, has been an excellent role model for other communities. We have been unique in having city-provided facilities for our model airplane enthusiasts for more than 50 years.
R. Cecchetini 316 Haight Ave. Alameda, CA 94501
Transcribed from original scans by AI. Minor OCR errors may remain.
