Roughly 100 people attended a banquet January 26, 2008, at the
Horizon Convention Center in Muncie, Indiana, in tribute to Dave
Brown, who served as AMA’s 22nd president, from 1996 through
2007. He was accompanied by his wife, Sally; his daughter, Connie;
her husband, Tim Gleason; his son, Dave; his wife, Suzanne; and five
grandchildren.
Dave has served in Academy leadership positions, as executive
vice president, vice president, and finally president, for 28 years. Bob
Underwood, who emceed the banquet, did the math and determined
that that equals attending approximately 110 Executive Council
meetings, going through 1,000 Executive Council meeting motions
and votes, and writing 330 magazine columns.
Notable attendees at the dinner included AMA Executive Director
Jim Cherry, Finbar and Anne Constant, Dave’s good friends who
traveled from Ireland to take part in the festivities; National
Aeronautic Association (NAA) President Jonathan Gaffney; Anita
Storey, ninth AMA president Keith Storey’s wife; and Maynard Hill,
who was AMA’s 10th president.
At the front of the
room was a table with a
place setting and a
candle burning in honor
of modelers who could
not attend. There was
no head table at the
gathering because it
was meant to be a
“family affair,” and the
presentation was
complemented by a
slide show, by Mark
Lanterman, featuring
Dave at various stages
of his life.
Joyce Hager,
AMA’s staff director,
read a letter from
former AMA president
Don Lowe, who was
unable to attend the
banquet. According to
INtheAIR
April 2008 9
AMA HEADQUARTERS AND MEMBER NEWS
Former President Dave Brown Honored
Dave Brown at a banquet held for him in January.
Bob Underwood presents the first HOPE Award to
Dave Brown’s wife Sally.
Finbar Constant, former Ireland Aero Club
president, toasts the outgoing president with an
Irish toast of “Sláinte!” (pronounced “slawn-cha”),
which means “health.”
an excerpt from that letter, “[Dave Brown has] made an important
contribution, and this hobby is better for [his] service.”
“I have great admiration for Dave,” said Joyce. “He was a great
mentor.”
Dave started modeling at age 7. Among his projects in his younger
years was constructing a scale XP-35 aircraft with friends and
covering it with foil from Marlboro cigarette packs. Dave’s other
interests have included midget car racing and playing the banjo.
He was honorably discharged from the Army in 1970, immediately
after which he went to work for World Engines in Ohio as a
toolmaker. In 1979 he started his own company—Dave Brown
Products—which he and Sally still own and run.
In 1985 Dave Brown Products introduced the first RC flight
simulator. The company continued to grow with the introduction of
wheels, aluminum spinners, and other accessory items.
Dave’s competitive modeling career, which began in the 1950s,
has included participation in such categories as CL Aerobatics, CL
Scale, CL Speed, and RC Aerobatics (Pattern). He participated in such
Pattern contests as the Badenwurtemberg State Championships, AMA
Nats, Tournament of Champions, and FAI World Championships.
Dave wasn’t the only Brown honored at the banquet; Bob
Underwood presented Sally with AMA’s first HOPE [Hall of Partners
Extraordinaire] Award, which honors those who support their partners
in their aeromodeling endeavors.
“At least one half of Dave is Sally,” said Bob. According to him
she has acted as nurse, pit crew, wife, business partner, mother, and
children’s advocate, and has served in numerous other roles.
“It’s been quite a ride,” she said.
Although Dave will no longer be AMA president, he will represent
the Academy in various capacities with the FAI executive committee,
the NAA, and CIAM (the FAI Aeromodelling Commission).
“We look forward to working together for many years to come,”
said newly elected AMA President Dave Mathewson.
The evening concluded with toasts given by Bob Underwood and
Finbar Constant.
“Keep on flying,” said Dave. MA
—AMA Staff
04sig1.QXD 2/25/08 2:25 PM Page 9
into production in 1935. Today that 72-year-old model hangs in the
AMA museum, in tribute to Frank’s place in aeromodeling history.
Frank was one of eight children—five brothers and three
sisters—and all the brothers were involved in aviation. His older
brother, Charlie (who passed away at age 94 in 1996), was
Frank’s mentor, and his machinist experience led to the
development of the Tlush engines. That kept the two busy until
World War II, when Frank served in the Corps of American
Engineers in the South Pacific.
After the war, in 1946, the five Tlush brothers established the
American Standard Company, which became known for highquality
machine products for the aerospace industry. The company
won the Supplier of the Year award in 1968 from the Boeing
Aircraft Company’s Vertol Helicopter Division.
Frank noted a few years ago that in the early 1930s he and
Charlie had seen a pioneer Loutrel engine at a Kresge Aero Club
meeting; and that inspired them to build their own engine. That led
to small-scale production of additional engines, followed by a larger
production effort with additional machine tools to supplement their
original single lathe and drill press.
Looking back even further, Frank recalled the early days before
the AMA when he represented the Junior division of the NAA at a
1930s Grand Central Palace aviation show.
He had traveled several times from Philadelphia to
Washington DC to confer with NAA officers about establishing
the independent organization for aeromodeling. Frank worked
with AMA founder Lt. H.W. Alden and Frank Zaic, a famous
modeler, to help make this happen.
During my 27 years as AMA Executive Director (1964-1991),
Frank was helpful in providing advice and guidance. AMA was
experiencing tremendous growth—from a low of 17,000 members to
165,000—and I’m extremely grateful to him for his help.
In many visits and phone calls with Frank in the past 30 years, he
frequently informed me that much credit for his achievements
should go to his great family and especially his wife, Edna. They
had been married for 48 years when Frank died.
The history of AMA’s birth and progress from the beginning
until the early 1990s owes much to Frank Tlush’s contributions. His
memory lingers ... MA
—John Worth
District IV
INtheAIR
10 MODEL AVIATION
One of AMA’s founders and a famous aeromodeling pioneer—
Frank Tlush—passed away December 20, 2007, at his home in
Langhorne, Pennsylvania. He was 90 years old.
He was best known for the model engines of the 1930s that bore
his name and for his model that won the Texaco Trophy at the AMA
Nats in 1936. Frank was inducted into the Model Aviation Hall of
Fame in 1988. In 1996 he was presented the Historic Achievement
Award at the AMA’s Celebration of Eagles event in Muncie, Indiana.
Before the AMA was formally established in 1936, Frank was one
of seven model-aviation pioneers who signed a document separating
the Academy from the National Aeronautic Association (NAA). The
AMA became the independent national organization to represent
aeromodelers in the US.
At the Detroit, Michigan, Nats in 1936, Frank won the highly
prized Texaco Trophy with his original design—a 9-foot-wingspan
FF model—using his Tlush Super Ace 10cc engine, which went
Frank Tlush: A Leader for More Than 70 Years
John Worth gives Frank Tlush (L) the Historic Achievement
Award in 1996.
• The cover shows Fred Reese’s 44-inchwingspan
Piper Cub on Oxbow Bend in
the Grand Teton National Park in
Wyoming, with Mount Moran in the
background. The Cub is the subject of this
month’s RC construction feature. Plans are
complete with both fixed and float landing
gear.
• The CL construction article and plans
this month are for John Paul’s profile
version of the famous World War II
Focke-Wulf Fw 190. John made this
airplane light and nimble for combat use.
• Bill Noonan gives us his rubber-powered
FF model of the 1926 Armstrong-
Whitworth Ape. This little model has
character, proportion, uniqueness, and ease
of construction.
• The new AMA Headquarters building in
Reston, Virginia, was completed in mid-
January and occupied in mid-February.
• David L. Peltz’s article “Perfect Hinges”
explains how to make piano-type hinges for
your sailplane. David uses aluminum tubing
and music wire to form hinges that are strong
and keep control surfaces in alignment.
• Luther Hux shows how to make your own
graphics and lettering using the silk-screen
method. He breaks this seemingly
complicated process into basic steps any
modeler can execute.
• Ray Teliczan’s article “Home Grown Plug
Analyzer” demonstrates how to make a
device from an old transmitter meter that will
let you know the condition of your glow plug.
• Mitch Poling gives an in-depth look at
indoor flying with motor-powered RC Scale
25 Years Ago in MA: April 1983
models and
advises
how to get
started in
this new
facet of the
hobby.
• New
products
this month
include an
ESC from
Jomar Products for $49; the Ace RC
Servo Pacer, which will make your servo
adjustable from “full speed” up to eight
seconds, for $35.95; and Slim Line
Mufflers’ Pitts-style muffler for .40-,
.60-, and .90-size engines for $19.95-
$22.95. MA
—Rich LaGrange
AMA Librarian
04sig1.QXD 2/25/08 2:25 PM Page 10
The Munsee Skychiefs of Muncie, Indiana,
is planning to start a model-pilot program
with Big Brothers Big Sisters
(BBBS) of Delaware County. If the
program is successful, it may be
replicated with other BBBS agencies or
youth organizations throughout the
US.
One trained club member will
sponsor a match (one Big and
one Little). The instructor will teach the student how to fly
an RC model. The Munsee Skychiefs will provide all the
equipment and cover the cost of the AMA membership that
is required for the Little to fly.
The ultimate goal is for participants to solo with an
airplane by the end of instruction. This normally takes
approximately 10 weeks, but it can take a shorter or longer
amount of time depending on how often the students meet
with their individual trainers.
It is important that all program participants attend a
meeting at which trained staff members explain safety rules
and etiquette. BBBS asks that all Big Sisters and Big
Brothers attend the meeting and all sessions so that safety
and rules can be enforced at all times. They can take
instruction along with their Little Brothers and Little
Sisters, but they will be required to pay the $58 AMA
membership fee.
For more information about this program, contact Abby
McDaniel, Match Support Coordinator, Big Brothers Big
Sisters of Delaware County, Muncie IN 47305; Tel.: (765)
284-4141. MA
INtheAIR
April 2008 11
Do you want to introduce model aviation
to your friends and neighbors, and then
receive local recognition and financial
benefits in return? If you answered “yes,”
you’ll want to learn more about AMA’s
2008 Take off And Grow (TAG) program.
Developed to encourage Academy
members and clubs to promote modeling as
a positive recreational activity, TAG was the
first of several new programs AMA
implemented in 2007. TAG provides an
extensive one-day introduction to model
aviation, with the intent of drawing in new
people. The introduction is followed by a
flight-training program for new members
gained from the opening-day activities.
Clubs that apply to host a “TAG Model
Aviation Day” will be provided with a
complete program-requirements and
guidelines document to use. It includes ideas
about promoting and advertising your event
and an outline of possible activities to take
place during the event.
Clubs are encouraged to preregister
attendees to help them better prepare. Each
participant will also be entered in the
AMA’s newly revised Introductory Pilot
Program (IPP).
Even though there is no cost to the
nonmember, by becoming an IPP student he
TAG 2008: the AMA Has It!
or she will be covered under the Academy’s
liability protection as long as he or she is
working under the supervision of an AMA
Introductory Pilot (IP) Instructor.
The day of the event, each student will
receive brief “classroom instruction” to help
familiarize him or her with model aviation
and give him or her an idea of what to
expect. Then each participant will receive
hands-on training, under a club instructor’s
supervision, that will help him or her
become acclimated to the basics of flight
and how it works.
If the training involves RC aircraft, each
attendee will have the opportunity to fly a
trainer on a buddy box under an AMA IP
Instructor’s guidance. (The TAG program is
also available to FF and CL clubs.)
If your club is selected to host a TAG
Model Aviation Day, the AMA will provide
up to $1,000 in advance to use to set up your
program. At the end of the event, your club
can keep the items purchased as AMA’s
way of saying “thanks for helping out.”
Through TAG, AMA members can also
take advantage of AMA’s Ambassador
Program. A current member who signs up
three new Open or Senior members will
earn next year’s membership free, as
another way of saying “thanks.”
The rewards are more than just those
listed in the preceding. Hosting a TAG
Model Aviation Day is a great way to
reach out to your community to give it a
taste of an enjoyable, family-oriented
recreational activity. In addition, you’ll
create positive relationships with your
neighbors that may help when the time
comes to keep or acquire flying sites.
As with all of AMA’s developing
programs, the Academy wants to provide
the tools clubs need to ensure their
hobby’s popularity. TAG will require
many people’s cooperation to make it a
success. Achieving that success will make
our already wonderful hobby even better.
AMA has a limited number of TAG
openings for 2008. If your club wants to
participate, contact April Hathaway at
[email protected] or (765) 287-
1256, extension 516. For more information
contact April or Jack Frost at education
@modelaircraft.org or (765) 287-1256,
extension 515.
You can also visit the “TAG Links” at
www.modelaircraft.org/education/08tagan
nounce.aspx to download a syllabus and
application. MA
—Education Department
New IRS Requirements for
Tax-Exempt AMA Chartered Clubs
This is a general notification and may not apply to your club.
AMA does not keep records of whether or not your club has taxexempt
status. If you are unsure, please review your club files or
contact your local Internal Revenue Service (IRS) office.
Beginning in 2008, small tax-exempt organizations that were
not previously required to file returns may be required to file
annual electronic notice Form 990-N: “Electronic Notice (e-
Postcard) for Tax-Exempt Organizations not Required to File
Form 990 or 990-EZ.” This requirement applies to tax periods
beginning after December 31, 2006. Organizations that do not file
the notice will lose their tax-exempt status.
Small tax-exempt organizations, which usually have gross
receipts of $25,000 or less, are not required to file Form 990,
“Return of Organization Exempt from Income Tax,” or Form 990-
EZ. With the enactment of the Pension Protection Act of 2006
(PPA), these small tax-exempt organizations will be required to
electronically file Form 990-N, also known as the “e-Postcard,”
with the IRS annually.
Exceptions to this requirement include organizations that are
included in a group return, private foundations that are required to
file Form 990-PF, and section 509(a)(3) supporting organizations
that are required to file Form 990 or Form 990-EZ.
The e-Postcard must be filed electronically; there will be no
paper form. The IRS is developing an electronic filing system for
the e-Postcard and will publicize the procedures when the system
is completed and ready for use.
If an organization does not file the e-Postcard or an annual
information return, Form 990 or 990-EZ, for three consecutive
years, the IRS will revoke its tax-exempt status (per PPA
requirements) as of the filing due date of the third year. MA
—AMA Headquarters
Big Brothers Big Sisters Pilot Program
04sig1.QXD 2/25/08 2:25 PM Page 11
numerous Scale projects and won several awards, including the
Sterling Award, for the best Scale model, at the 1972 Nats; the
Best Scale Model at the 1989 Quarter Scale Association of
America Las Vegas Fly-In; and the George Meyer Memorial
Craftsmanship Trophy more than once.
Popular in design and innovation, Claude had several kits
manufactured and experimented with, and he developed
transmitters, receivers, escapements, motor controls, and Stunt
tanks. His kits, all of which Sig produced, include the Yak-18P,
Kadet, Skybolt, Kobra, and Morrissey Bravo. He created plans
that were published in various aeromodeling magazines.
In addition to building and designing, Claude had experience
in writing and photography. He had articles published in Air
Trails, Flying Aces, American Modeler, and R/C Modeler
magazines. His photography has been printed in such
publications as Model Airplane News, Sport Modeler, and MA.
Claude competed in his first AMA Nats in 1941. Mike said
that the high point every year for Claude was these events; he
lived for and took part in many Nats. Mike said that Claude once
told him his goal was to be the first individual to compete in 50
Nats. Claude’s friend, Sal Taibi, had been to 47 consecutive
Nats, and Claude hoped to surpass that. Once he did, he hoped
for 50.
In the summer of 2007 Claude took part in the 48th Nats of his
career. Mike said that he thinks that is the most AMA Nats in
which any person has participated.
Claude’s AMA career began when he was appointed to the
Clubs and Chapters Committee in 1948. He was named to the
Contest Board in 1950 and was designated chairman from 1955
to 1956.
In 1957 Claude was elected AMA president. After a year of
his term he stepped down in favor of Walt Good. He then
resumed the position of Contest Board chairman, which he held
until 1960.
At that time Claude was appointed to the new Scale Advisory
Committee (SAC). He remained on the SAC board when it was
converted to the Scale Contest Board in 1970, and he served on
it through 2008. This 60-year period of continuously holding an
AMA office of appointment might be the longest term of any
AMA member.
Claude was inducted into the Model Aviation Hall of Fame in
1979. In 1991 he was elected to the Society of Antique Modelers
Hall of Fame.
“He totally devoted his whole life to model airplanes,” said
Mike.
Mike mentioned that Claude had other hobbies. He had been
a news buff since his teenage years and consistently made an
effort to know what
was happening
around the world.
He also had a great
love of movies and
acquired an
extensive collection.
Claude
McCullough was a
determined man who
knew what he loved
early in life and
never let it go. He
will be remembered
and missed for all he
did for every facet of
model aviation. MA
—Ashley Rauen
AMA
Communications
Specialist
INtheAIR
12 MODEL AVIATION
Claude McCullough: 1922-2008
Aeromodeling great Claude McCullough passed away January
30, 2008, at the age of 85. He was a leader in model aviation and
a skilled competitor. In his more than 70 years of model
aeronautics, Claude left his stamp on the hobby industry.
Born in Ottumwa, Iowa, May 16, 1922, Claude was raised an
only boy with two sisters. At age 9 he and his sisters went to live
on a farm under his grandparents’ care. Approximately four years
later he began participating regularly in all types of modeling
competitions.
In 1943 Claude entered the US Army Signal Corps. He wanted
to be in the US Air Corps, but poor eyesight made his dream
unattainable. However, Claude was blessed by being attached to
the Air Corps and worked at a B-24 base in Italy during World
War II.
Claude returned from the war in 1947 and resumed farming
near Ottumwa. He then moved to Montezuma, Iowa, in 1971,
where he began working at Sig Manufacturing Co.
Sig gave Claude the opportunity to design model airplanes and
related products. It
was there that he
met and became
good friends with
Mike Gretz, who is
currently a design
engineer for Sig.
“Claude was
very quiet but very
intelligent,” said
Mike. “He was an
easy man to talk to
and knew all about
models and fullscale
aircraft.”
Mike said Scale
was important to
Claude, who saw it
as a separate entity
from RC, FF, and
CL. Claude created
Claude McCullough during static judging at the 2007 Nats—his
48th and last AMA National Championships.
Claude at his drawing board, inking Kobra
plans at Sig in 1982.
Claude entered a Scale Russian aerobatic
Yak-1PM in the 1968 AMA Nats in Olathe,
Kansas. Sig produced a kit of the model.
04sig1.QXD 2/25/08 2:26 PM Page 12
Edition: Model Aviation - 2008/04
Page Numbers: 9,10,11,12
Edition: Model Aviation - 2008/04
Page Numbers: 9,10,11,12
Roughly 100 people attended a banquet January 26, 2008, at the
Horizon Convention Center in Muncie, Indiana, in tribute to Dave
Brown, who served as AMA’s 22nd president, from 1996 through
2007. He was accompanied by his wife, Sally; his daughter, Connie;
her husband, Tim Gleason; his son, Dave; his wife, Suzanne; and five
grandchildren.
Dave has served in Academy leadership positions, as executive
vice president, vice president, and finally president, for 28 years. Bob
Underwood, who emceed the banquet, did the math and determined
that that equals attending approximately 110 Executive Council
meetings, going through 1,000 Executive Council meeting motions
and votes, and writing 330 magazine columns.
Notable attendees at the dinner included AMA Executive Director
Jim Cherry, Finbar and Anne Constant, Dave’s good friends who
traveled from Ireland to take part in the festivities; National
Aeronautic Association (NAA) President Jonathan Gaffney; Anita
Storey, ninth AMA president Keith Storey’s wife; and Maynard Hill,
who was AMA’s 10th president.
At the front of the
room was a table with a
place setting and a
candle burning in honor
of modelers who could
not attend. There was
no head table at the
gathering because it
was meant to be a
“family affair,” and the
presentation was
complemented by a
slide show, by Mark
Lanterman, featuring
Dave at various stages
of his life.
Joyce Hager,
AMA’s staff director,
read a letter from
former AMA president
Don Lowe, who was
unable to attend the
banquet. According to
INtheAIR
April 2008 9
AMA HEADQUARTERS AND MEMBER NEWS
Former President Dave Brown Honored
Dave Brown at a banquet held for him in January.
Bob Underwood presents the first HOPE Award to
Dave Brown’s wife Sally.
Finbar Constant, former Ireland Aero Club
president, toasts the outgoing president with an
Irish toast of “Sláinte!” (pronounced “slawn-cha”),
which means “health.”
an excerpt from that letter, “[Dave Brown has] made an important
contribution, and this hobby is better for [his] service.”
“I have great admiration for Dave,” said Joyce. “He was a great
mentor.”
Dave started modeling at age 7. Among his projects in his younger
years was constructing a scale XP-35 aircraft with friends and
covering it with foil from Marlboro cigarette packs. Dave’s other
interests have included midget car racing and playing the banjo.
He was honorably discharged from the Army in 1970, immediately
after which he went to work for World Engines in Ohio as a
toolmaker. In 1979 he started his own company—Dave Brown
Products—which he and Sally still own and run.
In 1985 Dave Brown Products introduced the first RC flight
simulator. The company continued to grow with the introduction of
wheels, aluminum spinners, and other accessory items.
Dave’s competitive modeling career, which began in the 1950s,
has included participation in such categories as CL Aerobatics, CL
Scale, CL Speed, and RC Aerobatics (Pattern). He participated in such
Pattern contests as the Badenwurtemberg State Championships, AMA
Nats, Tournament of Champions, and FAI World Championships.
Dave wasn’t the only Brown honored at the banquet; Bob
Underwood presented Sally with AMA’s first HOPE [Hall of Partners
Extraordinaire] Award, which honors those who support their partners
in their aeromodeling endeavors.
“At least one half of Dave is Sally,” said Bob. According to him
she has acted as nurse, pit crew, wife, business partner, mother, and
children’s advocate, and has served in numerous other roles.
“It’s been quite a ride,” she said.
Although Dave will no longer be AMA president, he will represent
the Academy in various capacities with the FAI executive committee,
the NAA, and CIAM (the FAI Aeromodelling Commission).
“We look forward to working together for many years to come,”
said newly elected AMA President Dave Mathewson.
The evening concluded with toasts given by Bob Underwood and
Finbar Constant.
“Keep on flying,” said Dave. MA
—AMA Staff
04sig1.QXD 2/25/08 2:25 PM Page 9
into production in 1935. Today that 72-year-old model hangs in the
AMA museum, in tribute to Frank’s place in aeromodeling history.
Frank was one of eight children—five brothers and three
sisters—and all the brothers were involved in aviation. His older
brother, Charlie (who passed away at age 94 in 1996), was
Frank’s mentor, and his machinist experience led to the
development of the Tlush engines. That kept the two busy until
World War II, when Frank served in the Corps of American
Engineers in the South Pacific.
After the war, in 1946, the five Tlush brothers established the
American Standard Company, which became known for highquality
machine products for the aerospace industry. The company
won the Supplier of the Year award in 1968 from the Boeing
Aircraft Company’s Vertol Helicopter Division.
Frank noted a few years ago that in the early 1930s he and
Charlie had seen a pioneer Loutrel engine at a Kresge Aero Club
meeting; and that inspired them to build their own engine. That led
to small-scale production of additional engines, followed by a larger
production effort with additional machine tools to supplement their
original single lathe and drill press.
Looking back even further, Frank recalled the early days before
the AMA when he represented the Junior division of the NAA at a
1930s Grand Central Palace aviation show.
He had traveled several times from Philadelphia to
Washington DC to confer with NAA officers about establishing
the independent organization for aeromodeling. Frank worked
with AMA founder Lt. H.W. Alden and Frank Zaic, a famous
modeler, to help make this happen.
During my 27 years as AMA Executive Director (1964-1991),
Frank was helpful in providing advice and guidance. AMA was
experiencing tremendous growth—from a low of 17,000 members to
165,000—and I’m extremely grateful to him for his help.
In many visits and phone calls with Frank in the past 30 years, he
frequently informed me that much credit for his achievements
should go to his great family and especially his wife, Edna. They
had been married for 48 years when Frank died.
The history of AMA’s birth and progress from the beginning
until the early 1990s owes much to Frank Tlush’s contributions. His
memory lingers ... MA
—John Worth
District IV
INtheAIR
10 MODEL AVIATION
One of AMA’s founders and a famous aeromodeling pioneer—
Frank Tlush—passed away December 20, 2007, at his home in
Langhorne, Pennsylvania. He was 90 years old.
He was best known for the model engines of the 1930s that bore
his name and for his model that won the Texaco Trophy at the AMA
Nats in 1936. Frank was inducted into the Model Aviation Hall of
Fame in 1988. In 1996 he was presented the Historic Achievement
Award at the AMA’s Celebration of Eagles event in Muncie, Indiana.
Before the AMA was formally established in 1936, Frank was one
of seven model-aviation pioneers who signed a document separating
the Academy from the National Aeronautic Association (NAA). The
AMA became the independent national organization to represent
aeromodelers in the US.
At the Detroit, Michigan, Nats in 1936, Frank won the highly
prized Texaco Trophy with his original design—a 9-foot-wingspan
FF model—using his Tlush Super Ace 10cc engine, which went
Frank Tlush: A Leader for More Than 70 Years
John Worth gives Frank Tlush (L) the Historic Achievement
Award in 1996.
• The cover shows Fred Reese’s 44-inchwingspan
Piper Cub on Oxbow Bend in
the Grand Teton National Park in
Wyoming, with Mount Moran in the
background. The Cub is the subject of this
month’s RC construction feature. Plans are
complete with both fixed and float landing
gear.
• The CL construction article and plans
this month are for John Paul’s profile
version of the famous World War II
Focke-Wulf Fw 190. John made this
airplane light and nimble for combat use.
• Bill Noonan gives us his rubber-powered
FF model of the 1926 Armstrong-
Whitworth Ape. This little model has
character, proportion, uniqueness, and ease
of construction.
• The new AMA Headquarters building in
Reston, Virginia, was completed in mid-
January and occupied in mid-February.
• David L. Peltz’s article “Perfect Hinges”
explains how to make piano-type hinges for
your sailplane. David uses aluminum tubing
and music wire to form hinges that are strong
and keep control surfaces in alignment.
• Luther Hux shows how to make your own
graphics and lettering using the silk-screen
method. He breaks this seemingly
complicated process into basic steps any
modeler can execute.
• Ray Teliczan’s article “Home Grown Plug
Analyzer” demonstrates how to make a
device from an old transmitter meter that will
let you know the condition of your glow plug.
• Mitch Poling gives an in-depth look at
indoor flying with motor-powered RC Scale
25 Years Ago in MA: April 1983
models and
advises
how to get
started in
this new
facet of the
hobby.
• New
products
this month
include an
ESC from
Jomar Products for $49; the Ace RC
Servo Pacer, which will make your servo
adjustable from “full speed” up to eight
seconds, for $35.95; and Slim Line
Mufflers’ Pitts-style muffler for .40-,
.60-, and .90-size engines for $19.95-
$22.95. MA
—Rich LaGrange
AMA Librarian
04sig1.QXD 2/25/08 2:25 PM Page 10
The Munsee Skychiefs of Muncie, Indiana,
is planning to start a model-pilot program
with Big Brothers Big Sisters
(BBBS) of Delaware County. If the
program is successful, it may be
replicated with other BBBS agencies or
youth organizations throughout the
US.
One trained club member will
sponsor a match (one Big and
one Little). The instructor will teach the student how to fly
an RC model. The Munsee Skychiefs will provide all the
equipment and cover the cost of the AMA membership that
is required for the Little to fly.
The ultimate goal is for participants to solo with an
airplane by the end of instruction. This normally takes
approximately 10 weeks, but it can take a shorter or longer
amount of time depending on how often the students meet
with their individual trainers.
It is important that all program participants attend a
meeting at which trained staff members explain safety rules
and etiquette. BBBS asks that all Big Sisters and Big
Brothers attend the meeting and all sessions so that safety
and rules can be enforced at all times. They can take
instruction along with their Little Brothers and Little
Sisters, but they will be required to pay the $58 AMA
membership fee.
For more information about this program, contact Abby
McDaniel, Match Support Coordinator, Big Brothers Big
Sisters of Delaware County, Muncie IN 47305; Tel.: (765)
284-4141. MA
INtheAIR
April 2008 11
Do you want to introduce model aviation
to your friends and neighbors, and then
receive local recognition and financial
benefits in return? If you answered “yes,”
you’ll want to learn more about AMA’s
2008 Take off And Grow (TAG) program.
Developed to encourage Academy
members and clubs to promote modeling as
a positive recreational activity, TAG was the
first of several new programs AMA
implemented in 2007. TAG provides an
extensive one-day introduction to model
aviation, with the intent of drawing in new
people. The introduction is followed by a
flight-training program for new members
gained from the opening-day activities.
Clubs that apply to host a “TAG Model
Aviation Day” will be provided with a
complete program-requirements and
guidelines document to use. It includes ideas
about promoting and advertising your event
and an outline of possible activities to take
place during the event.
Clubs are encouraged to preregister
attendees to help them better prepare. Each
participant will also be entered in the
AMA’s newly revised Introductory Pilot
Program (IPP).
Even though there is no cost to the
nonmember, by becoming an IPP student he
TAG 2008: the AMA Has It!
or she will be covered under the Academy’s
liability protection as long as he or she is
working under the supervision of an AMA
Introductory Pilot (IP) Instructor.
The day of the event, each student will
receive brief “classroom instruction” to help
familiarize him or her with model aviation
and give him or her an idea of what to
expect. Then each participant will receive
hands-on training, under a club instructor’s
supervision, that will help him or her
become acclimated to the basics of flight
and how it works.
If the training involves RC aircraft, each
attendee will have the opportunity to fly a
trainer on a buddy box under an AMA IP
Instructor’s guidance. (The TAG program is
also available to FF and CL clubs.)
If your club is selected to host a TAG
Model Aviation Day, the AMA will provide
up to $1,000 in advance to use to set up your
program. At the end of the event, your club
can keep the items purchased as AMA’s
way of saying “thanks for helping out.”
Through TAG, AMA members can also
take advantage of AMA’s Ambassador
Program. A current member who signs up
three new Open or Senior members will
earn next year’s membership free, as
another way of saying “thanks.”
The rewards are more than just those
listed in the preceding. Hosting a TAG
Model Aviation Day is a great way to
reach out to your community to give it a
taste of an enjoyable, family-oriented
recreational activity. In addition, you’ll
create positive relationships with your
neighbors that may help when the time
comes to keep or acquire flying sites.
As with all of AMA’s developing
programs, the Academy wants to provide
the tools clubs need to ensure their
hobby’s popularity. TAG will require
many people’s cooperation to make it a
success. Achieving that success will make
our already wonderful hobby even better.
AMA has a limited number of TAG
openings for 2008. If your club wants to
participate, contact April Hathaway at
[email protected] or (765) 287-
1256, extension 516. For more information
contact April or Jack Frost at education
@modelaircraft.org or (765) 287-1256,
extension 515.
You can also visit the “TAG Links” at
www.modelaircraft.org/education/08tagan
nounce.aspx to download a syllabus and
application. MA
—Education Department
New IRS Requirements for
Tax-Exempt AMA Chartered Clubs
This is a general notification and may not apply to your club.
AMA does not keep records of whether or not your club has taxexempt
status. If you are unsure, please review your club files or
contact your local Internal Revenue Service (IRS) office.
Beginning in 2008, small tax-exempt organizations that were
not previously required to file returns may be required to file
annual electronic notice Form 990-N: “Electronic Notice (e-
Postcard) for Tax-Exempt Organizations not Required to File
Form 990 or 990-EZ.” This requirement applies to tax periods
beginning after December 31, 2006. Organizations that do not file
the notice will lose their tax-exempt status.
Small tax-exempt organizations, which usually have gross
receipts of $25,000 or less, are not required to file Form 990,
“Return of Organization Exempt from Income Tax,” or Form 990-
EZ. With the enactment of the Pension Protection Act of 2006
(PPA), these small tax-exempt organizations will be required to
electronically file Form 990-N, also known as the “e-Postcard,”
with the IRS annually.
Exceptions to this requirement include organizations that are
included in a group return, private foundations that are required to
file Form 990-PF, and section 509(a)(3) supporting organizations
that are required to file Form 990 or Form 990-EZ.
The e-Postcard must be filed electronically; there will be no
paper form. The IRS is developing an electronic filing system for
the e-Postcard and will publicize the procedures when the system
is completed and ready for use.
If an organization does not file the e-Postcard or an annual
information return, Form 990 or 990-EZ, for three consecutive
years, the IRS will revoke its tax-exempt status (per PPA
requirements) as of the filing due date of the third year. MA
—AMA Headquarters
Big Brothers Big Sisters Pilot Program
04sig1.QXD 2/25/08 2:25 PM Page 11
numerous Scale projects and won several awards, including the
Sterling Award, for the best Scale model, at the 1972 Nats; the
Best Scale Model at the 1989 Quarter Scale Association of
America Las Vegas Fly-In; and the George Meyer Memorial
Craftsmanship Trophy more than once.
Popular in design and innovation, Claude had several kits
manufactured and experimented with, and he developed
transmitters, receivers, escapements, motor controls, and Stunt
tanks. His kits, all of which Sig produced, include the Yak-18P,
Kadet, Skybolt, Kobra, and Morrissey Bravo. He created plans
that were published in various aeromodeling magazines.
In addition to building and designing, Claude had experience
in writing and photography. He had articles published in Air
Trails, Flying Aces, American Modeler, and R/C Modeler
magazines. His photography has been printed in such
publications as Model Airplane News, Sport Modeler, and MA.
Claude competed in his first AMA Nats in 1941. Mike said
that the high point every year for Claude was these events; he
lived for and took part in many Nats. Mike said that Claude once
told him his goal was to be the first individual to compete in 50
Nats. Claude’s friend, Sal Taibi, had been to 47 consecutive
Nats, and Claude hoped to surpass that. Once he did, he hoped
for 50.
In the summer of 2007 Claude took part in the 48th Nats of his
career. Mike said that he thinks that is the most AMA Nats in
which any person has participated.
Claude’s AMA career began when he was appointed to the
Clubs and Chapters Committee in 1948. He was named to the
Contest Board in 1950 and was designated chairman from 1955
to 1956.
In 1957 Claude was elected AMA president. After a year of
his term he stepped down in favor of Walt Good. He then
resumed the position of Contest Board chairman, which he held
until 1960.
At that time Claude was appointed to the new Scale Advisory
Committee (SAC). He remained on the SAC board when it was
converted to the Scale Contest Board in 1970, and he served on
it through 2008. This 60-year period of continuously holding an
AMA office of appointment might be the longest term of any
AMA member.
Claude was inducted into the Model Aviation Hall of Fame in
1979. In 1991 he was elected to the Society of Antique Modelers
Hall of Fame.
“He totally devoted his whole life to model airplanes,” said
Mike.
Mike mentioned that Claude had other hobbies. He had been
a news buff since his teenage years and consistently made an
effort to know what
was happening
around the world.
He also had a great
love of movies and
acquired an
extensive collection.
Claude
McCullough was a
determined man who
knew what he loved
early in life and
never let it go. He
will be remembered
and missed for all he
did for every facet of
model aviation. MA
—Ashley Rauen
AMA
Communications
Specialist
INtheAIR
12 MODEL AVIATION
Claude McCullough: 1922-2008
Aeromodeling great Claude McCullough passed away January
30, 2008, at the age of 85. He was a leader in model aviation and
a skilled competitor. In his more than 70 years of model
aeronautics, Claude left his stamp on the hobby industry.
Born in Ottumwa, Iowa, May 16, 1922, Claude was raised an
only boy with two sisters. At age 9 he and his sisters went to live
on a farm under his grandparents’ care. Approximately four years
later he began participating regularly in all types of modeling
competitions.
In 1943 Claude entered the US Army Signal Corps. He wanted
to be in the US Air Corps, but poor eyesight made his dream
unattainable. However, Claude was blessed by being attached to
the Air Corps and worked at a B-24 base in Italy during World
War II.
Claude returned from the war in 1947 and resumed farming
near Ottumwa. He then moved to Montezuma, Iowa, in 1971,
where he began working at Sig Manufacturing Co.
Sig gave Claude the opportunity to design model airplanes and
related products. It
was there that he
met and became
good friends with
Mike Gretz, who is
currently a design
engineer for Sig.
“Claude was
very quiet but very
intelligent,” said
Mike. “He was an
easy man to talk to
and knew all about
models and fullscale
aircraft.”
Mike said Scale
was important to
Claude, who saw it
as a separate entity
from RC, FF, and
CL. Claude created
Claude McCullough during static judging at the 2007 Nats—his
48th and last AMA National Championships.
Claude at his drawing board, inking Kobra
plans at Sig in 1982.
Claude entered a Scale Russian aerobatic
Yak-1PM in the 1968 AMA Nats in Olathe,
Kansas. Sig produced a kit of the model.
04sig1.QXD 2/25/08 2:26 PM Page 12
Edition: Model Aviation - 2008/04
Page Numbers: 9,10,11,12
Roughly 100 people attended a banquet January 26, 2008, at the
Horizon Convention Center in Muncie, Indiana, in tribute to Dave
Brown, who served as AMA’s 22nd president, from 1996 through
2007. He was accompanied by his wife, Sally; his daughter, Connie;
her husband, Tim Gleason; his son, Dave; his wife, Suzanne; and five
grandchildren.
Dave has served in Academy leadership positions, as executive
vice president, vice president, and finally president, for 28 years. Bob
Underwood, who emceed the banquet, did the math and determined
that that equals attending approximately 110 Executive Council
meetings, going through 1,000 Executive Council meeting motions
and votes, and writing 330 magazine columns.
Notable attendees at the dinner included AMA Executive Director
Jim Cherry, Finbar and Anne Constant, Dave’s good friends who
traveled from Ireland to take part in the festivities; National
Aeronautic Association (NAA) President Jonathan Gaffney; Anita
Storey, ninth AMA president Keith Storey’s wife; and Maynard Hill,
who was AMA’s 10th president.
At the front of the
room was a table with a
place setting and a
candle burning in honor
of modelers who could
not attend. There was
no head table at the
gathering because it
was meant to be a
“family affair,” and the
presentation was
complemented by a
slide show, by Mark
Lanterman, featuring
Dave at various stages
of his life.
Joyce Hager,
AMA’s staff director,
read a letter from
former AMA president
Don Lowe, who was
unable to attend the
banquet. According to
INtheAIR
April 2008 9
AMA HEADQUARTERS AND MEMBER NEWS
Former President Dave Brown Honored
Dave Brown at a banquet held for him in January.
Bob Underwood presents the first HOPE Award to
Dave Brown’s wife Sally.
Finbar Constant, former Ireland Aero Club
president, toasts the outgoing president with an
Irish toast of “Sláinte!” (pronounced “slawn-cha”),
which means “health.”
an excerpt from that letter, “[Dave Brown has] made an important
contribution, and this hobby is better for [his] service.”
“I have great admiration for Dave,” said Joyce. “He was a great
mentor.”
Dave started modeling at age 7. Among his projects in his younger
years was constructing a scale XP-35 aircraft with friends and
covering it with foil from Marlboro cigarette packs. Dave’s other
interests have included midget car racing and playing the banjo.
He was honorably discharged from the Army in 1970, immediately
after which he went to work for World Engines in Ohio as a
toolmaker. In 1979 he started his own company—Dave Brown
Products—which he and Sally still own and run.
In 1985 Dave Brown Products introduced the first RC flight
simulator. The company continued to grow with the introduction of
wheels, aluminum spinners, and other accessory items.
Dave’s competitive modeling career, which began in the 1950s,
has included participation in such categories as CL Aerobatics, CL
Scale, CL Speed, and RC Aerobatics (Pattern). He participated in such
Pattern contests as the Badenwurtemberg State Championships, AMA
Nats, Tournament of Champions, and FAI World Championships.
Dave wasn’t the only Brown honored at the banquet; Bob
Underwood presented Sally with AMA’s first HOPE [Hall of Partners
Extraordinaire] Award, which honors those who support their partners
in their aeromodeling endeavors.
“At least one half of Dave is Sally,” said Bob. According to him
she has acted as nurse, pit crew, wife, business partner, mother, and
children’s advocate, and has served in numerous other roles.
“It’s been quite a ride,” she said.
Although Dave will no longer be AMA president, he will represent
the Academy in various capacities with the FAI executive committee,
the NAA, and CIAM (the FAI Aeromodelling Commission).
“We look forward to working together for many years to come,”
said newly elected AMA President Dave Mathewson.
The evening concluded with toasts given by Bob Underwood and
Finbar Constant.
“Keep on flying,” said Dave. MA
—AMA Staff
04sig1.QXD 2/25/08 2:25 PM Page 9
into production in 1935. Today that 72-year-old model hangs in the
AMA museum, in tribute to Frank’s place in aeromodeling history.
Frank was one of eight children—five brothers and three
sisters—and all the brothers were involved in aviation. His older
brother, Charlie (who passed away at age 94 in 1996), was
Frank’s mentor, and his machinist experience led to the
development of the Tlush engines. That kept the two busy until
World War II, when Frank served in the Corps of American
Engineers in the South Pacific.
After the war, in 1946, the five Tlush brothers established the
American Standard Company, which became known for highquality
machine products for the aerospace industry. The company
won the Supplier of the Year award in 1968 from the Boeing
Aircraft Company’s Vertol Helicopter Division.
Frank noted a few years ago that in the early 1930s he and
Charlie had seen a pioneer Loutrel engine at a Kresge Aero Club
meeting; and that inspired them to build their own engine. That led
to small-scale production of additional engines, followed by a larger
production effort with additional machine tools to supplement their
original single lathe and drill press.
Looking back even further, Frank recalled the early days before
the AMA when he represented the Junior division of the NAA at a
1930s Grand Central Palace aviation show.
He had traveled several times from Philadelphia to
Washington DC to confer with NAA officers about establishing
the independent organization for aeromodeling. Frank worked
with AMA founder Lt. H.W. Alden and Frank Zaic, a famous
modeler, to help make this happen.
During my 27 years as AMA Executive Director (1964-1991),
Frank was helpful in providing advice and guidance. AMA was
experiencing tremendous growth—from a low of 17,000 members to
165,000—and I’m extremely grateful to him for his help.
In many visits and phone calls with Frank in the past 30 years, he
frequently informed me that much credit for his achievements
should go to his great family and especially his wife, Edna. They
had been married for 48 years when Frank died.
The history of AMA’s birth and progress from the beginning
until the early 1990s owes much to Frank Tlush’s contributions. His
memory lingers ... MA
—John Worth
District IV
INtheAIR
10 MODEL AVIATION
One of AMA’s founders and a famous aeromodeling pioneer—
Frank Tlush—passed away December 20, 2007, at his home in
Langhorne, Pennsylvania. He was 90 years old.
He was best known for the model engines of the 1930s that bore
his name and for his model that won the Texaco Trophy at the AMA
Nats in 1936. Frank was inducted into the Model Aviation Hall of
Fame in 1988. In 1996 he was presented the Historic Achievement
Award at the AMA’s Celebration of Eagles event in Muncie, Indiana.
Before the AMA was formally established in 1936, Frank was one
of seven model-aviation pioneers who signed a document separating
the Academy from the National Aeronautic Association (NAA). The
AMA became the independent national organization to represent
aeromodelers in the US.
At the Detroit, Michigan, Nats in 1936, Frank won the highly
prized Texaco Trophy with his original design—a 9-foot-wingspan
FF model—using his Tlush Super Ace 10cc engine, which went
Frank Tlush: A Leader for More Than 70 Years
John Worth gives Frank Tlush (L) the Historic Achievement
Award in 1996.
• The cover shows Fred Reese’s 44-inchwingspan
Piper Cub on Oxbow Bend in
the Grand Teton National Park in
Wyoming, with Mount Moran in the
background. The Cub is the subject of this
month’s RC construction feature. Plans are
complete with both fixed and float landing
gear.
• The CL construction article and plans
this month are for John Paul’s profile
version of the famous World War II
Focke-Wulf Fw 190. John made this
airplane light and nimble for combat use.
• Bill Noonan gives us his rubber-powered
FF model of the 1926 Armstrong-
Whitworth Ape. This little model has
character, proportion, uniqueness, and ease
of construction.
• The new AMA Headquarters building in
Reston, Virginia, was completed in mid-
January and occupied in mid-February.
• David L. Peltz’s article “Perfect Hinges”
explains how to make piano-type hinges for
your sailplane. David uses aluminum tubing
and music wire to form hinges that are strong
and keep control surfaces in alignment.
• Luther Hux shows how to make your own
graphics and lettering using the silk-screen
method. He breaks this seemingly
complicated process into basic steps any
modeler can execute.
• Ray Teliczan’s article “Home Grown Plug
Analyzer” demonstrates how to make a
device from an old transmitter meter that will
let you know the condition of your glow plug.
• Mitch Poling gives an in-depth look at
indoor flying with motor-powered RC Scale
25 Years Ago in MA: April 1983
models and
advises
how to get
started in
this new
facet of the
hobby.
• New
products
this month
include an
ESC from
Jomar Products for $49; the Ace RC
Servo Pacer, which will make your servo
adjustable from “full speed” up to eight
seconds, for $35.95; and Slim Line
Mufflers’ Pitts-style muffler for .40-,
.60-, and .90-size engines for $19.95-
$22.95. MA
—Rich LaGrange
AMA Librarian
04sig1.QXD 2/25/08 2:25 PM Page 10
The Munsee Skychiefs of Muncie, Indiana,
is planning to start a model-pilot program
with Big Brothers Big Sisters
(BBBS) of Delaware County. If the
program is successful, it may be
replicated with other BBBS agencies or
youth organizations throughout the
US.
One trained club member will
sponsor a match (one Big and
one Little). The instructor will teach the student how to fly
an RC model. The Munsee Skychiefs will provide all the
equipment and cover the cost of the AMA membership that
is required for the Little to fly.
The ultimate goal is for participants to solo with an
airplane by the end of instruction. This normally takes
approximately 10 weeks, but it can take a shorter or longer
amount of time depending on how often the students meet
with their individual trainers.
It is important that all program participants attend a
meeting at which trained staff members explain safety rules
and etiquette. BBBS asks that all Big Sisters and Big
Brothers attend the meeting and all sessions so that safety
and rules can be enforced at all times. They can take
instruction along with their Little Brothers and Little
Sisters, but they will be required to pay the $58 AMA
membership fee.
For more information about this program, contact Abby
McDaniel, Match Support Coordinator, Big Brothers Big
Sisters of Delaware County, Muncie IN 47305; Tel.: (765)
284-4141. MA
INtheAIR
April 2008 11
Do you want to introduce model aviation
to your friends and neighbors, and then
receive local recognition and financial
benefits in return? If you answered “yes,”
you’ll want to learn more about AMA’s
2008 Take off And Grow (TAG) program.
Developed to encourage Academy
members and clubs to promote modeling as
a positive recreational activity, TAG was the
first of several new programs AMA
implemented in 2007. TAG provides an
extensive one-day introduction to model
aviation, with the intent of drawing in new
people. The introduction is followed by a
flight-training program for new members
gained from the opening-day activities.
Clubs that apply to host a “TAG Model
Aviation Day” will be provided with a
complete program-requirements and
guidelines document to use. It includes ideas
about promoting and advertising your event
and an outline of possible activities to take
place during the event.
Clubs are encouraged to preregister
attendees to help them better prepare. Each
participant will also be entered in the
AMA’s newly revised Introductory Pilot
Program (IPP).
Even though there is no cost to the
nonmember, by becoming an IPP student he
TAG 2008: the AMA Has It!
or she will be covered under the Academy’s
liability protection as long as he or she is
working under the supervision of an AMA
Introductory Pilot (IP) Instructor.
The day of the event, each student will
receive brief “classroom instruction” to help
familiarize him or her with model aviation
and give him or her an idea of what to
expect. Then each participant will receive
hands-on training, under a club instructor’s
supervision, that will help him or her
become acclimated to the basics of flight
and how it works.
If the training involves RC aircraft, each
attendee will have the opportunity to fly a
trainer on a buddy box under an AMA IP
Instructor’s guidance. (The TAG program is
also available to FF and CL clubs.)
If your club is selected to host a TAG
Model Aviation Day, the AMA will provide
up to $1,000 in advance to use to set up your
program. At the end of the event, your club
can keep the items purchased as AMA’s
way of saying “thanks for helping out.”
Through TAG, AMA members can also
take advantage of AMA’s Ambassador
Program. A current member who signs up
three new Open or Senior members will
earn next year’s membership free, as
another way of saying “thanks.”
The rewards are more than just those
listed in the preceding. Hosting a TAG
Model Aviation Day is a great way to
reach out to your community to give it a
taste of an enjoyable, family-oriented
recreational activity. In addition, you’ll
create positive relationships with your
neighbors that may help when the time
comes to keep or acquire flying sites.
As with all of AMA’s developing
programs, the Academy wants to provide
the tools clubs need to ensure their
hobby’s popularity. TAG will require
many people’s cooperation to make it a
success. Achieving that success will make
our already wonderful hobby even better.
AMA has a limited number of TAG
openings for 2008. If your club wants to
participate, contact April Hathaway at
[email protected] or (765) 287-
1256, extension 516. For more information
contact April or Jack Frost at education
@modelaircraft.org or (765) 287-1256,
extension 515.
You can also visit the “TAG Links” at
www.modelaircraft.org/education/08tagan
nounce.aspx to download a syllabus and
application. MA
—Education Department
New IRS Requirements for
Tax-Exempt AMA Chartered Clubs
This is a general notification and may not apply to your club.
AMA does not keep records of whether or not your club has taxexempt
status. If you are unsure, please review your club files or
contact your local Internal Revenue Service (IRS) office.
Beginning in 2008, small tax-exempt organizations that were
not previously required to file returns may be required to file
annual electronic notice Form 990-N: “Electronic Notice (e-
Postcard) for Tax-Exempt Organizations not Required to File
Form 990 or 990-EZ.” This requirement applies to tax periods
beginning after December 31, 2006. Organizations that do not file
the notice will lose their tax-exempt status.
Small tax-exempt organizations, which usually have gross
receipts of $25,000 or less, are not required to file Form 990,
“Return of Organization Exempt from Income Tax,” or Form 990-
EZ. With the enactment of the Pension Protection Act of 2006
(PPA), these small tax-exempt organizations will be required to
electronically file Form 990-N, also known as the “e-Postcard,”
with the IRS annually.
Exceptions to this requirement include organizations that are
included in a group return, private foundations that are required to
file Form 990-PF, and section 509(a)(3) supporting organizations
that are required to file Form 990 or Form 990-EZ.
The e-Postcard must be filed electronically; there will be no
paper form. The IRS is developing an electronic filing system for
the e-Postcard and will publicize the procedures when the system
is completed and ready for use.
If an organization does not file the e-Postcard or an annual
information return, Form 990 or 990-EZ, for three consecutive
years, the IRS will revoke its tax-exempt status (per PPA
requirements) as of the filing due date of the third year. MA
—AMA Headquarters
Big Brothers Big Sisters Pilot Program
04sig1.QXD 2/25/08 2:25 PM Page 11
numerous Scale projects and won several awards, including the
Sterling Award, for the best Scale model, at the 1972 Nats; the
Best Scale Model at the 1989 Quarter Scale Association of
America Las Vegas Fly-In; and the George Meyer Memorial
Craftsmanship Trophy more than once.
Popular in design and innovation, Claude had several kits
manufactured and experimented with, and he developed
transmitters, receivers, escapements, motor controls, and Stunt
tanks. His kits, all of which Sig produced, include the Yak-18P,
Kadet, Skybolt, Kobra, and Morrissey Bravo. He created plans
that were published in various aeromodeling magazines.
In addition to building and designing, Claude had experience
in writing and photography. He had articles published in Air
Trails, Flying Aces, American Modeler, and R/C Modeler
magazines. His photography has been printed in such
publications as Model Airplane News, Sport Modeler, and MA.
Claude competed in his first AMA Nats in 1941. Mike said
that the high point every year for Claude was these events; he
lived for and took part in many Nats. Mike said that Claude once
told him his goal was to be the first individual to compete in 50
Nats. Claude’s friend, Sal Taibi, had been to 47 consecutive
Nats, and Claude hoped to surpass that. Once he did, he hoped
for 50.
In the summer of 2007 Claude took part in the 48th Nats of his
career. Mike said that he thinks that is the most AMA Nats in
which any person has participated.
Claude’s AMA career began when he was appointed to the
Clubs and Chapters Committee in 1948. He was named to the
Contest Board in 1950 and was designated chairman from 1955
to 1956.
In 1957 Claude was elected AMA president. After a year of
his term he stepped down in favor of Walt Good. He then
resumed the position of Contest Board chairman, which he held
until 1960.
At that time Claude was appointed to the new Scale Advisory
Committee (SAC). He remained on the SAC board when it was
converted to the Scale Contest Board in 1970, and he served on
it through 2008. This 60-year period of continuously holding an
AMA office of appointment might be the longest term of any
AMA member.
Claude was inducted into the Model Aviation Hall of Fame in
1979. In 1991 he was elected to the Society of Antique Modelers
Hall of Fame.
“He totally devoted his whole life to model airplanes,” said
Mike.
Mike mentioned that Claude had other hobbies. He had been
a news buff since his teenage years and consistently made an
effort to know what
was happening
around the world.
He also had a great
love of movies and
acquired an
extensive collection.
Claude
McCullough was a
determined man who
knew what he loved
early in life and
never let it go. He
will be remembered
and missed for all he
did for every facet of
model aviation. MA
—Ashley Rauen
AMA
Communications
Specialist
INtheAIR
12 MODEL AVIATION
Claude McCullough: 1922-2008
Aeromodeling great Claude McCullough passed away January
30, 2008, at the age of 85. He was a leader in model aviation and
a skilled competitor. In his more than 70 years of model
aeronautics, Claude left his stamp on the hobby industry.
Born in Ottumwa, Iowa, May 16, 1922, Claude was raised an
only boy with two sisters. At age 9 he and his sisters went to live
on a farm under his grandparents’ care. Approximately four years
later he began participating regularly in all types of modeling
competitions.
In 1943 Claude entered the US Army Signal Corps. He wanted
to be in the US Air Corps, but poor eyesight made his dream
unattainable. However, Claude was blessed by being attached to
the Air Corps and worked at a B-24 base in Italy during World
War II.
Claude returned from the war in 1947 and resumed farming
near Ottumwa. He then moved to Montezuma, Iowa, in 1971,
where he began working at Sig Manufacturing Co.
Sig gave Claude the opportunity to design model airplanes and
related products. It
was there that he
met and became
good friends with
Mike Gretz, who is
currently a design
engineer for Sig.
“Claude was
very quiet but very
intelligent,” said
Mike. “He was an
easy man to talk to
and knew all about
models and fullscale
aircraft.”
Mike said Scale
was important to
Claude, who saw it
as a separate entity
from RC, FF, and
CL. Claude created
Claude McCullough during static judging at the 2007 Nats—his
48th and last AMA National Championships.
Claude at his drawing board, inking Kobra
plans at Sig in 1982.
Claude entered a Scale Russian aerobatic
Yak-1PM in the 1968 AMA Nats in Olathe,
Kansas. Sig produced a kit of the model.
04sig1.QXD 2/25/08 2:26 PM Page 12
Edition: Model Aviation - 2008/04
Page Numbers: 9,10,11,12
Roughly 100 people attended a banquet January 26, 2008, at the
Horizon Convention Center in Muncie, Indiana, in tribute to Dave
Brown, who served as AMA’s 22nd president, from 1996 through
2007. He was accompanied by his wife, Sally; his daughter, Connie;
her husband, Tim Gleason; his son, Dave; his wife, Suzanne; and five
grandchildren.
Dave has served in Academy leadership positions, as executive
vice president, vice president, and finally president, for 28 years. Bob
Underwood, who emceed the banquet, did the math and determined
that that equals attending approximately 110 Executive Council
meetings, going through 1,000 Executive Council meeting motions
and votes, and writing 330 magazine columns.
Notable attendees at the dinner included AMA Executive Director
Jim Cherry, Finbar and Anne Constant, Dave’s good friends who
traveled from Ireland to take part in the festivities; National
Aeronautic Association (NAA) President Jonathan Gaffney; Anita
Storey, ninth AMA president Keith Storey’s wife; and Maynard Hill,
who was AMA’s 10th president.
At the front of the
room was a table with a
place setting and a
candle burning in honor
of modelers who could
not attend. There was
no head table at the
gathering because it
was meant to be a
“family affair,” and the
presentation was
complemented by a
slide show, by Mark
Lanterman, featuring
Dave at various stages
of his life.
Joyce Hager,
AMA’s staff director,
read a letter from
former AMA president
Don Lowe, who was
unable to attend the
banquet. According to
INtheAIR
April 2008 9
AMA HEADQUARTERS AND MEMBER NEWS
Former President Dave Brown Honored
Dave Brown at a banquet held for him in January.
Bob Underwood presents the first HOPE Award to
Dave Brown’s wife Sally.
Finbar Constant, former Ireland Aero Club
president, toasts the outgoing president with an
Irish toast of “Sláinte!” (pronounced “slawn-cha”),
which means “health.”
an excerpt from that letter, “[Dave Brown has] made an important
contribution, and this hobby is better for [his] service.”
“I have great admiration for Dave,” said Joyce. “He was a great
mentor.”
Dave started modeling at age 7. Among his projects in his younger
years was constructing a scale XP-35 aircraft with friends and
covering it with foil from Marlboro cigarette packs. Dave’s other
interests have included midget car racing and playing the banjo.
He was honorably discharged from the Army in 1970, immediately
after which he went to work for World Engines in Ohio as a
toolmaker. In 1979 he started his own company—Dave Brown
Products—which he and Sally still own and run.
In 1985 Dave Brown Products introduced the first RC flight
simulator. The company continued to grow with the introduction of
wheels, aluminum spinners, and other accessory items.
Dave’s competitive modeling career, which began in the 1950s,
has included participation in such categories as CL Aerobatics, CL
Scale, CL Speed, and RC Aerobatics (Pattern). He participated in such
Pattern contests as the Badenwurtemberg State Championships, AMA
Nats, Tournament of Champions, and FAI World Championships.
Dave wasn’t the only Brown honored at the banquet; Bob
Underwood presented Sally with AMA’s first HOPE [Hall of Partners
Extraordinaire] Award, which honors those who support their partners
in their aeromodeling endeavors.
“At least one half of Dave is Sally,” said Bob. According to him
she has acted as nurse, pit crew, wife, business partner, mother, and
children’s advocate, and has served in numerous other roles.
“It’s been quite a ride,” she said.
Although Dave will no longer be AMA president, he will represent
the Academy in various capacities with the FAI executive committee,
the NAA, and CIAM (the FAI Aeromodelling Commission).
“We look forward to working together for many years to come,”
said newly elected AMA President Dave Mathewson.
The evening concluded with toasts given by Bob Underwood and
Finbar Constant.
“Keep on flying,” said Dave. MA
—AMA Staff
04sig1.QXD 2/25/08 2:25 PM Page 9
into production in 1935. Today that 72-year-old model hangs in the
AMA museum, in tribute to Frank’s place in aeromodeling history.
Frank was one of eight children—five brothers and three
sisters—and all the brothers were involved in aviation. His older
brother, Charlie (who passed away at age 94 in 1996), was
Frank’s mentor, and his machinist experience led to the
development of the Tlush engines. That kept the two busy until
World War II, when Frank served in the Corps of American
Engineers in the South Pacific.
After the war, in 1946, the five Tlush brothers established the
American Standard Company, which became known for highquality
machine products for the aerospace industry. The company
won the Supplier of the Year award in 1968 from the Boeing
Aircraft Company’s Vertol Helicopter Division.
Frank noted a few years ago that in the early 1930s he and
Charlie had seen a pioneer Loutrel engine at a Kresge Aero Club
meeting; and that inspired them to build their own engine. That led
to small-scale production of additional engines, followed by a larger
production effort with additional machine tools to supplement their
original single lathe and drill press.
Looking back even further, Frank recalled the early days before
the AMA when he represented the Junior division of the NAA at a
1930s Grand Central Palace aviation show.
He had traveled several times from Philadelphia to
Washington DC to confer with NAA officers about establishing
the independent organization for aeromodeling. Frank worked
with AMA founder Lt. H.W. Alden and Frank Zaic, a famous
modeler, to help make this happen.
During my 27 years as AMA Executive Director (1964-1991),
Frank was helpful in providing advice and guidance. AMA was
experiencing tremendous growth—from a low of 17,000 members to
165,000—and I’m extremely grateful to him for his help.
In many visits and phone calls with Frank in the past 30 years, he
frequently informed me that much credit for his achievements
should go to his great family and especially his wife, Edna. They
had been married for 48 years when Frank died.
The history of AMA’s birth and progress from the beginning
until the early 1990s owes much to Frank Tlush’s contributions. His
memory lingers ... MA
—John Worth
District IV
INtheAIR
10 MODEL AVIATION
One of AMA’s founders and a famous aeromodeling pioneer—
Frank Tlush—passed away December 20, 2007, at his home in
Langhorne, Pennsylvania. He was 90 years old.
He was best known for the model engines of the 1930s that bore
his name and for his model that won the Texaco Trophy at the AMA
Nats in 1936. Frank was inducted into the Model Aviation Hall of
Fame in 1988. In 1996 he was presented the Historic Achievement
Award at the AMA’s Celebration of Eagles event in Muncie, Indiana.
Before the AMA was formally established in 1936, Frank was one
of seven model-aviation pioneers who signed a document separating
the Academy from the National Aeronautic Association (NAA). The
AMA became the independent national organization to represent
aeromodelers in the US.
At the Detroit, Michigan, Nats in 1936, Frank won the highly
prized Texaco Trophy with his original design—a 9-foot-wingspan
FF model—using his Tlush Super Ace 10cc engine, which went
Frank Tlush: A Leader for More Than 70 Years
John Worth gives Frank Tlush (L) the Historic Achievement
Award in 1996.
• The cover shows Fred Reese’s 44-inchwingspan
Piper Cub on Oxbow Bend in
the Grand Teton National Park in
Wyoming, with Mount Moran in the
background. The Cub is the subject of this
month’s RC construction feature. Plans are
complete with both fixed and float landing
gear.
• The CL construction article and plans
this month are for John Paul’s profile
version of the famous World War II
Focke-Wulf Fw 190. John made this
airplane light and nimble for combat use.
• Bill Noonan gives us his rubber-powered
FF model of the 1926 Armstrong-
Whitworth Ape. This little model has
character, proportion, uniqueness, and ease
of construction.
• The new AMA Headquarters building in
Reston, Virginia, was completed in mid-
January and occupied in mid-February.
• David L. Peltz’s article “Perfect Hinges”
explains how to make piano-type hinges for
your sailplane. David uses aluminum tubing
and music wire to form hinges that are strong
and keep control surfaces in alignment.
• Luther Hux shows how to make your own
graphics and lettering using the silk-screen
method. He breaks this seemingly
complicated process into basic steps any
modeler can execute.
• Ray Teliczan’s article “Home Grown Plug
Analyzer” demonstrates how to make a
device from an old transmitter meter that will
let you know the condition of your glow plug.
• Mitch Poling gives an in-depth look at
indoor flying with motor-powered RC Scale
25 Years Ago in MA: April 1983
models and
advises
how to get
started in
this new
facet of the
hobby.
• New
products
this month
include an
ESC from
Jomar Products for $49; the Ace RC
Servo Pacer, which will make your servo
adjustable from “full speed” up to eight
seconds, for $35.95; and Slim Line
Mufflers’ Pitts-style muffler for .40-,
.60-, and .90-size engines for $19.95-
$22.95. MA
—Rich LaGrange
AMA Librarian
04sig1.QXD 2/25/08 2:25 PM Page 10
The Munsee Skychiefs of Muncie, Indiana,
is planning to start a model-pilot program
with Big Brothers Big Sisters
(BBBS) of Delaware County. If the
program is successful, it may be
replicated with other BBBS agencies or
youth organizations throughout the
US.
One trained club member will
sponsor a match (one Big and
one Little). The instructor will teach the student how to fly
an RC model. The Munsee Skychiefs will provide all the
equipment and cover the cost of the AMA membership that
is required for the Little to fly.
The ultimate goal is for participants to solo with an
airplane by the end of instruction. This normally takes
approximately 10 weeks, but it can take a shorter or longer
amount of time depending on how often the students meet
with their individual trainers.
It is important that all program participants attend a
meeting at which trained staff members explain safety rules
and etiquette. BBBS asks that all Big Sisters and Big
Brothers attend the meeting and all sessions so that safety
and rules can be enforced at all times. They can take
instruction along with their Little Brothers and Little
Sisters, but they will be required to pay the $58 AMA
membership fee.
For more information about this program, contact Abby
McDaniel, Match Support Coordinator, Big Brothers Big
Sisters of Delaware County, Muncie IN 47305; Tel.: (765)
284-4141. MA
INtheAIR
April 2008 11
Do you want to introduce model aviation
to your friends and neighbors, and then
receive local recognition and financial
benefits in return? If you answered “yes,”
you’ll want to learn more about AMA’s
2008 Take off And Grow (TAG) program.
Developed to encourage Academy
members and clubs to promote modeling as
a positive recreational activity, TAG was the
first of several new programs AMA
implemented in 2007. TAG provides an
extensive one-day introduction to model
aviation, with the intent of drawing in new
people. The introduction is followed by a
flight-training program for new members
gained from the opening-day activities.
Clubs that apply to host a “TAG Model
Aviation Day” will be provided with a
complete program-requirements and
guidelines document to use. It includes ideas
about promoting and advertising your event
and an outline of possible activities to take
place during the event.
Clubs are encouraged to preregister
attendees to help them better prepare. Each
participant will also be entered in the
AMA’s newly revised Introductory Pilot
Program (IPP).
Even though there is no cost to the
nonmember, by becoming an IPP student he
TAG 2008: the AMA Has It!
or she will be covered under the Academy’s
liability protection as long as he or she is
working under the supervision of an AMA
Introductory Pilot (IP) Instructor.
The day of the event, each student will
receive brief “classroom instruction” to help
familiarize him or her with model aviation
and give him or her an idea of what to
expect. Then each participant will receive
hands-on training, under a club instructor’s
supervision, that will help him or her
become acclimated to the basics of flight
and how it works.
If the training involves RC aircraft, each
attendee will have the opportunity to fly a
trainer on a buddy box under an AMA IP
Instructor’s guidance. (The TAG program is
also available to FF and CL clubs.)
If your club is selected to host a TAG
Model Aviation Day, the AMA will provide
up to $1,000 in advance to use to set up your
program. At the end of the event, your club
can keep the items purchased as AMA’s
way of saying “thanks for helping out.”
Through TAG, AMA members can also
take advantage of AMA’s Ambassador
Program. A current member who signs up
three new Open or Senior members will
earn next year’s membership free, as
another way of saying “thanks.”
The rewards are more than just those
listed in the preceding. Hosting a TAG
Model Aviation Day is a great way to
reach out to your community to give it a
taste of an enjoyable, family-oriented
recreational activity. In addition, you’ll
create positive relationships with your
neighbors that may help when the time
comes to keep or acquire flying sites.
As with all of AMA’s developing
programs, the Academy wants to provide
the tools clubs need to ensure their
hobby’s popularity. TAG will require
many people’s cooperation to make it a
success. Achieving that success will make
our already wonderful hobby even better.
AMA has a limited number of TAG
openings for 2008. If your club wants to
participate, contact April Hathaway at
[email protected] or (765) 287-
1256, extension 516. For more information
contact April or Jack Frost at education
@modelaircraft.org or (765) 287-1256,
extension 515.
You can also visit the “TAG Links” at
www.modelaircraft.org/education/08tagan
nounce.aspx to download a syllabus and
application. MA
—Education Department
New IRS Requirements for
Tax-Exempt AMA Chartered Clubs
This is a general notification and may not apply to your club.
AMA does not keep records of whether or not your club has taxexempt
status. If you are unsure, please review your club files or
contact your local Internal Revenue Service (IRS) office.
Beginning in 2008, small tax-exempt organizations that were
not previously required to file returns may be required to file
annual electronic notice Form 990-N: “Electronic Notice (e-
Postcard) for Tax-Exempt Organizations not Required to File
Form 990 or 990-EZ.” This requirement applies to tax periods
beginning after December 31, 2006. Organizations that do not file
the notice will lose their tax-exempt status.
Small tax-exempt organizations, which usually have gross
receipts of $25,000 or less, are not required to file Form 990,
“Return of Organization Exempt from Income Tax,” or Form 990-
EZ. With the enactment of the Pension Protection Act of 2006
(PPA), these small tax-exempt organizations will be required to
electronically file Form 990-N, also known as the “e-Postcard,”
with the IRS annually.
Exceptions to this requirement include organizations that are
included in a group return, private foundations that are required to
file Form 990-PF, and section 509(a)(3) supporting organizations
that are required to file Form 990 or Form 990-EZ.
The e-Postcard must be filed electronically; there will be no
paper form. The IRS is developing an electronic filing system for
the e-Postcard and will publicize the procedures when the system
is completed and ready for use.
If an organization does not file the e-Postcard or an annual
information return, Form 990 or 990-EZ, for three consecutive
years, the IRS will revoke its tax-exempt status (per PPA
requirements) as of the filing due date of the third year. MA
—AMA Headquarters
Big Brothers Big Sisters Pilot Program
04sig1.QXD 2/25/08 2:25 PM Page 11
numerous Scale projects and won several awards, including the
Sterling Award, for the best Scale model, at the 1972 Nats; the
Best Scale Model at the 1989 Quarter Scale Association of
America Las Vegas Fly-In; and the George Meyer Memorial
Craftsmanship Trophy more than once.
Popular in design and innovation, Claude had several kits
manufactured and experimented with, and he developed
transmitters, receivers, escapements, motor controls, and Stunt
tanks. His kits, all of which Sig produced, include the Yak-18P,
Kadet, Skybolt, Kobra, and Morrissey Bravo. He created plans
that were published in various aeromodeling magazines.
In addition to building and designing, Claude had experience
in writing and photography. He had articles published in Air
Trails, Flying Aces, American Modeler, and R/C Modeler
magazines. His photography has been printed in such
publications as Model Airplane News, Sport Modeler, and MA.
Claude competed in his first AMA Nats in 1941. Mike said
that the high point every year for Claude was these events; he
lived for and took part in many Nats. Mike said that Claude once
told him his goal was to be the first individual to compete in 50
Nats. Claude’s friend, Sal Taibi, had been to 47 consecutive
Nats, and Claude hoped to surpass that. Once he did, he hoped
for 50.
In the summer of 2007 Claude took part in the 48th Nats of his
career. Mike said that he thinks that is the most AMA Nats in
which any person has participated.
Claude’s AMA career began when he was appointed to the
Clubs and Chapters Committee in 1948. He was named to the
Contest Board in 1950 and was designated chairman from 1955
to 1956.
In 1957 Claude was elected AMA president. After a year of
his term he stepped down in favor of Walt Good. He then
resumed the position of Contest Board chairman, which he held
until 1960.
At that time Claude was appointed to the new Scale Advisory
Committee (SAC). He remained on the SAC board when it was
converted to the Scale Contest Board in 1970, and he served on
it through 2008. This 60-year period of continuously holding an
AMA office of appointment might be the longest term of any
AMA member.
Claude was inducted into the Model Aviation Hall of Fame in
1979. In 1991 he was elected to the Society of Antique Modelers
Hall of Fame.
“He totally devoted his whole life to model airplanes,” said
Mike.
Mike mentioned that Claude had other hobbies. He had been
a news buff since his teenage years and consistently made an
effort to know what
was happening
around the world.
He also had a great
love of movies and
acquired an
extensive collection.
Claude
McCullough was a
determined man who
knew what he loved
early in life and
never let it go. He
will be remembered
and missed for all he
did for every facet of
model aviation. MA
—Ashley Rauen
AMA
Communications
Specialist
INtheAIR
12 MODEL AVIATION
Claude McCullough: 1922-2008
Aeromodeling great Claude McCullough passed away January
30, 2008, at the age of 85. He was a leader in model aviation and
a skilled competitor. In his more than 70 years of model
aeronautics, Claude left his stamp on the hobby industry.
Born in Ottumwa, Iowa, May 16, 1922, Claude was raised an
only boy with two sisters. At age 9 he and his sisters went to live
on a farm under his grandparents’ care. Approximately four years
later he began participating regularly in all types of modeling
competitions.
In 1943 Claude entered the US Army Signal Corps. He wanted
to be in the US Air Corps, but poor eyesight made his dream
unattainable. However, Claude was blessed by being attached to
the Air Corps and worked at a B-24 base in Italy during World
War II.
Claude returned from the war in 1947 and resumed farming
near Ottumwa. He then moved to Montezuma, Iowa, in 1971,
where he began working at Sig Manufacturing Co.
Sig gave Claude the opportunity to design model airplanes and
related products. It
was there that he
met and became
good friends with
Mike Gretz, who is
currently a design
engineer for Sig.
“Claude was
very quiet but very
intelligent,” said
Mike. “He was an
easy man to talk to
and knew all about
models and fullscale
aircraft.”
Mike said Scale
was important to
Claude, who saw it
as a separate entity
from RC, FF, and
CL. Claude created
Claude McCullough during static judging at the 2007 Nats—his
48th and last AMA National Championships.
Claude at his drawing board, inking Kobra
plans at Sig in 1982.
Claude entered a Scale Russian aerobatic
Yak-1PM in the 1968 AMA Nats in Olathe,
Kansas. Sig produced a kit of the model.
04sig1.QXD 2/25/08 2:26 PM Page 12