158 MODEL AVIATION
Note: VPs from Districts V, VII, and XI as well as the NAA
representative were not in attendance.
IT WAS MOVED, seconded, and approved by acclamation to
approve the items in the Consent Agenda. (Consent agenda: the
minutes of the April 24-25, 2010, Executive Council meeting; read
into the minutes the conference call of June 30, 2010.)
Motion I: Moved by M. Smith (EVP) and seconded by C. Bauer (VI)
to accept the report of the Nominating Committee. The names on the
2010 ballot will be:
President Dave Mathewson (incumbent)
District I Andy Argenio (incumbent)
District V Jose Soto (interim VP)
District IX Jim Wallen (incumbent)
District X Michael Brown (interim VP)
Larry Tougas
Motion passed unanimously.
Motion II: Moved by M. Smith (EVP) and seconded by C. Bauer
(VI) to count the 2012 election ballots (to be counted in the fall of
2011), either internally and/or through electronic means.
Motion passed unanimously.
Motion III: Moved by B. Brown (III) and seconded by B. Teague
(IV) to accept the report of the Publications Committee as policy.
Motion passed: 8-Y; 1-N (X).
Motion IV: Moved by J. Rice (VIII) and seconded by M. Brown (X)
to approve the Safety Code submitted August 14, 2010, as modified:
Item A. 2. (e) – change “conformance” to “compliance;” change
“AMA Experimental Aircraft program” to “Large Model Aircraft
program.” Item A. 2. (j) – change “conformance” to “compliance;”
change “AMA Safety Regulations for turbine operation” to “AMA
Turbine Regulations.” Item B. 10. – Delete this item.
Motion passed unanimously.
Motion V: Moved by G. Fitch (II) and seconded by J. Rice (VIII)
to change the name of the Experimental Aircraft program to Large
Model Aircraft program. Additionally, pending approval of the
regulations and insurance, increase Large Model Aircraft program
(formerly Experimental Aircraft program) maximum weight from
55.1 lbs.-100 lbs. to 55.1 lbs.-125 lbs. for propeller-driven aircraft,
and, 55.1 lbs.-100 lbs. for turbine-powered aircraft.
Motion passed unanimously.
Motion VI: Moved by J. Rice (VIII) and seconded by G. Fitch (II) to
approve the recommended changes to the Large Model Aircraft
Program Requirements and Inspector Information as submitted
August 14, 2010.
Motion passed unanimously.
Motion VII: Moved by J. Rice (VII) and seconded by G. Fitch (II) to
approve the PDF document addressing Metal Blade Usage for Model
Helicopters.
Motion passed unanimously.
Motion VIII: Moved by J. Rice (VIII) and seconded by M. Brown
(X) to accept the Safety Committees recommendations to modify the
Safety Regulations for Model Aircraft Powered by Gas Turbines.
Motion passed unanimously.
Motion IX: Moved by J. Rice (VIII) and seconded by M. Smith
(EVP) to adopt the policy titled “Legal Defense Fund for AMA
Chartered Clubs,” as presented August 14, 2010.
Motion passed unanimously.
Motion X: Moved by M. Smith (EVP) and seconded by J. Wallen
(IX) to allocate $10,000 initially to enable the Museum Steering
Committee to begin the RFQ process and secure a consultant.
Funding for the consultant will be from the Museum Patron Fund.
Motion passed unanimously.
AMA News
Announcements, news, and information from the
Academy of Model Aeronautics and the elected district representatives.
AMA Executive Council Meeting
The motions and acclamations are part of the unofficial minutes of the meeting. Minutes from a given meeting are not official until
they are approved at the following quarterly Council meeting. Questions or comments concerning the motions should be addressed to
your district vice president.
August 14, 2010
Muncie, Indiana
AMA Plans Service
The AMA Plans Service has plans for all
of your building needs, but did you know
that we also cut foam wings; print fullcolor
posters, banners, and signs; and
provide window graphics? Call us today for
your quote at (800) I FLY AMA ([800] 435-
9262), ext. 507.
Go to www.modelaircraft.org/
promos.aspx to learn more about other
programs that will benefit you!
Do you want your club to
stand out?
Let AMA Custom Products help! It
offers:
• Made-to-order screen-printed apparel
• Engraved awards
• Customized vinyl banners
Call (800) I-FLY-AMA (435-9262), email
[email protected], or visit
www.modelaircraft.org/products.aspx for
more information or a price quote.
November 2010 159
AMA President
Dave Mathewson
Baldwinsville, New York
In one of my first Model Aviation
columns as president, I identified several
areas that I intended to focus on during my
term. They were flying site concerns,
relationship building with government
agencies, enhancing AMA’s education
outreach efforts, promoting model aviation,
and improving communication with our
members.
AMA has made good progress during the
last three years in addressing flying site
issues. Our League of Cities Program has
helped spread the message that model
aviation is an ideal use of municipal
properties. Our relationship with the EPA
has resulted in a number of new flying sites
throughout the country. Recently, we
restructured out Flying Site Assistance
Program to be more proactive in helping
clubs both find and retain good flying sites.
This has already had a positive impact in
helping clubs resolve flying site issues.
One of the biggest challenges facing
aeromodeling is the ongoing FAA
regulatory process designed to draft new
rules for small unmanned aircraft systems.
In 2008, we created the position of AMA
Government Affairs Representative to help
address these concerns as well as to
interface with other government agencies
that could impact model aviation. In 2010,
we contracted a Washington consultant to
help further. We need to be proactive and
prepared should any concerns involving
model aviation become a legislative issue.
All of this was done to position AMA to be
a strong advocate for model aviation and to
protect modeling from the unintended
negative consequences of potential
regulation.
We’ve made significant progress with
our education outreach efforts. In May 2010,
AMA was recognized for these efforts
when, in conjunction with the Indianapolis
Children’s Museum, we were awarded a
grant by NASA that will help us continue
this work. One of the responsibilities of our
new Education Director is to reach out to
community-based organizations like Scouts,
CAP, and others. The results of this will be
seen in the coming year. A recently signed
agreement with NASA/Goddard Space
Center will partner AMA clubs with local
schools on research programs using model
aircraft. And, our new agreement with the
EAA will provide opportunities to promote
the concept that model aviation is a perfect
stepping stone to careers in aviation and
aerospace.
We continue to build the groundwork for
increased promotion of model aviation as an
ideal family recreational activity. Engaging
prominent AMA members like Hoot Gibson,
Burt Rutan, Juan Montoya, Tom Huff, Matt
Chapman, and others will be the foundation
of this ongoing effort. However, our focus
will not only be on increasing the number
involved in aeromodeling. Our work will
also help build the credibility of what we do
as model aviation enthusiasts, creating a
positive perception of model aviation in
everyone from our friends and neighbors to
elected officials at the local to the federal
level.
We’ve made significant progress in
improving member communications. Social
networking is the quickest method to reach
young people and we entered that world in
2009. The AMA member forum continues to
grow. Our new electronic quick brief, AMA
Today, has received overwhelmingly
positive comments. Sometime early in the
last quarter of 2010, AMA will launch its
totally revised Web site. All of these efforts
have made, and will make, a significant
improvement in the way we exchange
information with our members.
Much progress has been made during the
last three years. My intent for the next three
years is to build on the progress that we
have already made. At the same time, we
will continue to look at new avenues and
opportunities to strengthen our association.
District I Vice President
Andy Argenio
Smithfield, Rhode Island
In 2004, the district AVPs and I
developed a 5 year strategic plan for district
I. Our vision was to have aeromodeling
recognized and respected as a worthwhile
and enjoyable sport. The mission objectives
included promoting aeromodeling and
providing added value and service for
district members and clubs.
In the past six years, we have introduced
clubs to national and district incentive
programs. These programs provide funds
and recognition for club events that increase
2010 Campaign Statements
Ed. note: “Candidate statements reflect the opinion of the author and do not necessarily represent the official position of the Academy of
Model Aeronautics. Candidate statements are published word-for-word as submitted by the candidate and are not edited by the Academy of
Model Aeronautics’ staff for grammar, punctuation, or spelling. The Academy of Model Aeronautics reserves the right to remove any portion
of any statement which it determines, in its sole discretion, may contain potentially defamatory remarks.”
You’re learning but still missing a few pieces ...
Just a few things you can discover at Sport Aviator:
• How to get started in RC
• How to set up a basic or advanced trainer
• The differences between advanced and basic trainers
• About tuning, maintaining, and operating a glow
engine
• What makes for a good second airplane
MA’s Sport Aviator
www.masportaviator.com
(Always free for everyone around the world—not just AMA members.)
community awareness of our sport. District
funds have sponsored 22 events bringing
more clubs and members together for what
we believe it is all about; friendship, flying,
and having fun.
I have spoken to public and private
property managers on behalf of clubs to
help acquire or prevent the loss of flying
sites. We have engaged attorneys to assist
clubs when noise and overfly issues
threaten to stop flying activity. District
funds have bought flight simulators and
model construction materials for
aeromodeling education programs.
During the flying season, I am at events
every weekend. I frequently attend club
meetings to answer AMA questions,
provide advice, settle disputes, or present
awards.
On a National level, as a board member
of the Executive Council, I represent your
interest with the AMA. I serve on four
committees and chair two, the Bylaw and
Event Sanction Committee. The AMA
president appointed me to lead a 50 member
Strategic Task Force to evaluate AMA
programs, identify opportunities, and
recommend solutions to strengthen and
promote the mission, vision, and viability of
the AMA.
It is a privilege and honor to serve as
District I Vice President. Please show your
continued support by voting in this election.
District V Vice President
Jose R. Soto
Apopka, Florida
My fellow modelers, I would like to
represent you in District V and assure the
hard work of my predecessors does not
wane! I would like to focus on the ideas
that you, the membership of AMA, have
for our advancement, not only as modelers,
but also as leaders in our communities. I
will bring these ideas to the Executive
Council and share them with everyone.
I would like to establish a
communication channel between all of us
in the District and also share ideas with
successful clubs within the District, I will
work with all of you so we can introduce
the young men & women in society to our
sport and hobby, and work hand in hand
with those establishing new clubs so we
can obtain and keep new flying fields.
In the past I have been in every position
our clubs have from maintenance to
president. Also, as an AMA leader member
and AVP, I have helped other clubs in the
area get started, I’ve spoken to political
leaders, rubbed elbows with mayors and
got the word out in our schools.
As your District V representative, I will
assure you have a voice and opinion in our
hobby so we can continue to grow. I built
my first model more than forty years ago
and I continue to build today. I am a
disabled American veteran and served you
proudly in the U.S. Coast Guard. I look
forward to continued service to you, my
fellow modelers.
District IX Vice President
Jim Wallen
Arvada, Colorado
When Mark Smith became the Executive
Vice President for AMA, he asked me to fill
his position of District IX Vice President for
the last two years. I gladly accepted and have
been active in that position. I have
represented District IX on the Executive
Council, am a member of the Finance
Committee for AMA as well as chairing the
Executive Director Review Committee. I
strongly believe that AMA needs to bring
additional focus to the needs of the
membership and the local clubs.
I am a retiree from Ball Corporation after
38 years of service. I held the positions of
Chemical Process Controller, Project
Engineer, Project Manager, Manager of
Capital Planning and Director of International
Engineering.
I have been involved with our hobby for
the last 25 years. I have served as our local
club president and chair the Denver Metro
Area Council.
My goals for District IX are as follows:
• Continue participation in AMA Finance
Committee to assure balanced budgets
and overall financial accountability and
responsibility.
• Provide leadership on the Executive
Council to promote the needs and desires
of local clubs and membership.
• Assure proper and efficient leadership
from the office of the Executive
Director.
• Address the issues of declining
membership. We must all support
programs that present AMA in a
favorable light to the general public. We
must be proactive and adopt a
progressive outlook to reverse the trend.
• Accelerate youth programs. They are the
investment in our future.
• Continue to look for opportunities for
site development and acquisition. We
need to develop creative ways to assist
local clubs to own their own site.
I am asking for your support by electing
me to serve as your representative to AMA
and the Executive Council. I pledge to
honestly represent you and AMA to the best
of my ability. Thank you.
District X Vice President
Mike Brown
Bella Vista, California
This is the campaign statement for
Michael Brown for District X Vice President.
When starting to write this campaign
statement I thought, what do I write? Do I
write how many times I have been a club
officer ? Or how many volunteer positions I
have held for clubs, for the AMA , for special
interest groups? Do I write about how many I
still hold, what I am still doing? Do I write
how many years I have been a modeler, or
how many airplanes I now own, I have built
or I have flown? Do I write about the many
events I have put on, or the organizations I
helped by them? Then I thought, what would
be important to me? I thought, I want a
person in this position who has been a
modeler for years, one who has volunteered
for many things, in many ways. I want a
person who has been dedicated to this hobby
and the modelers over many years.
So I ask all of you to do the same, to
decide what qualifications are important,
which ones a person needs have done to do
this job, what amount of experience is
necessary. Then ask yourself if I am the most
qualified candidate running for your vote. I
hold this position in the highest regard. I have
been volunteering, working toward being
qualified to do this job for a long time and
finally after all those years of volunteering I
feel qualified. I love the hobby and I want to
be your District X Vice President, so I can
work for you, the members and clubs of
District X.
The most important thing is that you vote.
Lawrence Tougas
Fairfield, California
As a candidate in last year’s District X
election, I met many outstanding modelers. It
was the experience of a lifetime. Jim Giffin
and I had the closest election in AMA
history; we were only 34 votes apart, a virtual
tie. It was 34 votes in a district with 28,000
members, but those 34 votes elected Jim. I
wished him all the best. Sadly Jim passed
away in January; we are now having a special
election to determine who will lead District
X.
I believe my combination of modeling,
aviation and business experience makes me
the best qualified candidate to be District X
VP.
My top 3 issues remain the same; help
clubs keep their flying fields, improve the
District X web presence, and establish an
AMA western United States flying site in
District X.
I value the support I got from all of you
who voted for me last year and I will work to
earn your vote again. Please ask your friends
to vote for me too.
For those of you who voted for Jim please
take another look at me. I have a website that
details all of the reasons I believe I am the
best candidate to be Vice-President and
would sincerely appreciate your vote.
For those who did not vote last year
because you feel it makes no difference who
is elected, I understand your frustration. All I
can say is please give me a chance to prove
that the right person can make a difference. I
have big plans for District X and can’t wait
to pursue them. Join with me and cast your
vote.
Read more at; http://ama-district-xelection.
blogspot.com.
Happy Landings,
Lawrence Tougas
AMA 232
P.S. Make a difference. Vote today!!!
160 MODEL AVIATION
Edition: Model Aviation - 2010/11
Page Numbers: 158,159,160
Edition: Model Aviation - 2010/11
Page Numbers: 158,159,160
158 MODEL AVIATION
Note: VPs from Districts V, VII, and XI as well as the NAA
representative were not in attendance.
IT WAS MOVED, seconded, and approved by acclamation to
approve the items in the Consent Agenda. (Consent agenda: the
minutes of the April 24-25, 2010, Executive Council meeting; read
into the minutes the conference call of June 30, 2010.)
Motion I: Moved by M. Smith (EVP) and seconded by C. Bauer (VI)
to accept the report of the Nominating Committee. The names on the
2010 ballot will be:
President Dave Mathewson (incumbent)
District I Andy Argenio (incumbent)
District V Jose Soto (interim VP)
District IX Jim Wallen (incumbent)
District X Michael Brown (interim VP)
Larry Tougas
Motion passed unanimously.
Motion II: Moved by M. Smith (EVP) and seconded by C. Bauer
(VI) to count the 2012 election ballots (to be counted in the fall of
2011), either internally and/or through electronic means.
Motion passed unanimously.
Motion III: Moved by B. Brown (III) and seconded by B. Teague
(IV) to accept the report of the Publications Committee as policy.
Motion passed: 8-Y; 1-N (X).
Motion IV: Moved by J. Rice (VIII) and seconded by M. Brown (X)
to approve the Safety Code submitted August 14, 2010, as modified:
Item A. 2. (e) – change “conformance” to “compliance;” change
“AMA Experimental Aircraft program” to “Large Model Aircraft
program.” Item A. 2. (j) – change “conformance” to “compliance;”
change “AMA Safety Regulations for turbine operation” to “AMA
Turbine Regulations.” Item B. 10. – Delete this item.
Motion passed unanimously.
Motion V: Moved by G. Fitch (II) and seconded by J. Rice (VIII)
to change the name of the Experimental Aircraft program to Large
Model Aircraft program. Additionally, pending approval of the
regulations and insurance, increase Large Model Aircraft program
(formerly Experimental Aircraft program) maximum weight from
55.1 lbs.-100 lbs. to 55.1 lbs.-125 lbs. for propeller-driven aircraft,
and, 55.1 lbs.-100 lbs. for turbine-powered aircraft.
Motion passed unanimously.
Motion VI: Moved by J. Rice (VIII) and seconded by G. Fitch (II) to
approve the recommended changes to the Large Model Aircraft
Program Requirements and Inspector Information as submitted
August 14, 2010.
Motion passed unanimously.
Motion VII: Moved by J. Rice (VII) and seconded by G. Fitch (II) to
approve the PDF document addressing Metal Blade Usage for Model
Helicopters.
Motion passed unanimously.
Motion VIII: Moved by J. Rice (VIII) and seconded by M. Brown
(X) to accept the Safety Committees recommendations to modify the
Safety Regulations for Model Aircraft Powered by Gas Turbines.
Motion passed unanimously.
Motion IX: Moved by J. Rice (VIII) and seconded by M. Smith
(EVP) to adopt the policy titled “Legal Defense Fund for AMA
Chartered Clubs,” as presented August 14, 2010.
Motion passed unanimously.
Motion X: Moved by M. Smith (EVP) and seconded by J. Wallen
(IX) to allocate $10,000 initially to enable the Museum Steering
Committee to begin the RFQ process and secure a consultant.
Funding for the consultant will be from the Museum Patron Fund.
Motion passed unanimously.
AMA News
Announcements, news, and information from the
Academy of Model Aeronautics and the elected district representatives.
AMA Executive Council Meeting
The motions and acclamations are part of the unofficial minutes of the meeting. Minutes from a given meeting are not official until
they are approved at the following quarterly Council meeting. Questions or comments concerning the motions should be addressed to
your district vice president.
August 14, 2010
Muncie, Indiana
AMA Plans Service
The AMA Plans Service has plans for all
of your building needs, but did you know
that we also cut foam wings; print fullcolor
posters, banners, and signs; and
provide window graphics? Call us today for
your quote at (800) I FLY AMA ([800] 435-
9262), ext. 507.
Go to www.modelaircraft.org/
promos.aspx to learn more about other
programs that will benefit you!
Do you want your club to
stand out?
Let AMA Custom Products help! It
offers:
• Made-to-order screen-printed apparel
• Engraved awards
• Customized vinyl banners
Call (800) I-FLY-AMA (435-9262), email
[email protected], or visit
www.modelaircraft.org/products.aspx for
more information or a price quote.
November 2010 159
AMA President
Dave Mathewson
Baldwinsville, New York
In one of my first Model Aviation
columns as president, I identified several
areas that I intended to focus on during my
term. They were flying site concerns,
relationship building with government
agencies, enhancing AMA’s education
outreach efforts, promoting model aviation,
and improving communication with our
members.
AMA has made good progress during the
last three years in addressing flying site
issues. Our League of Cities Program has
helped spread the message that model
aviation is an ideal use of municipal
properties. Our relationship with the EPA
has resulted in a number of new flying sites
throughout the country. Recently, we
restructured out Flying Site Assistance
Program to be more proactive in helping
clubs both find and retain good flying sites.
This has already had a positive impact in
helping clubs resolve flying site issues.
One of the biggest challenges facing
aeromodeling is the ongoing FAA
regulatory process designed to draft new
rules for small unmanned aircraft systems.
In 2008, we created the position of AMA
Government Affairs Representative to help
address these concerns as well as to
interface with other government agencies
that could impact model aviation. In 2010,
we contracted a Washington consultant to
help further. We need to be proactive and
prepared should any concerns involving
model aviation become a legislative issue.
All of this was done to position AMA to be
a strong advocate for model aviation and to
protect modeling from the unintended
negative consequences of potential
regulation.
We’ve made significant progress with
our education outreach efforts. In May 2010,
AMA was recognized for these efforts
when, in conjunction with the Indianapolis
Children’s Museum, we were awarded a
grant by NASA that will help us continue
this work. One of the responsibilities of our
new Education Director is to reach out to
community-based organizations like Scouts,
CAP, and others. The results of this will be
seen in the coming year. A recently signed
agreement with NASA/Goddard Space
Center will partner AMA clubs with local
schools on research programs using model
aircraft. And, our new agreement with the
EAA will provide opportunities to promote
the concept that model aviation is a perfect
stepping stone to careers in aviation and
aerospace.
We continue to build the groundwork for
increased promotion of model aviation as an
ideal family recreational activity. Engaging
prominent AMA members like Hoot Gibson,
Burt Rutan, Juan Montoya, Tom Huff, Matt
Chapman, and others will be the foundation
of this ongoing effort. However, our focus
will not only be on increasing the number
involved in aeromodeling. Our work will
also help build the credibility of what we do
as model aviation enthusiasts, creating a
positive perception of model aviation in
everyone from our friends and neighbors to
elected officials at the local to the federal
level.
We’ve made significant progress in
improving member communications. Social
networking is the quickest method to reach
young people and we entered that world in
2009. The AMA member forum continues to
grow. Our new electronic quick brief, AMA
Today, has received overwhelmingly
positive comments. Sometime early in the
last quarter of 2010, AMA will launch its
totally revised Web site. All of these efforts
have made, and will make, a significant
improvement in the way we exchange
information with our members.
Much progress has been made during the
last three years. My intent for the next three
years is to build on the progress that we
have already made. At the same time, we
will continue to look at new avenues and
opportunities to strengthen our association.
District I Vice President
Andy Argenio
Smithfield, Rhode Island
In 2004, the district AVPs and I
developed a 5 year strategic plan for district
I. Our vision was to have aeromodeling
recognized and respected as a worthwhile
and enjoyable sport. The mission objectives
included promoting aeromodeling and
providing added value and service for
district members and clubs.
In the past six years, we have introduced
clubs to national and district incentive
programs. These programs provide funds
and recognition for club events that increase
2010 Campaign Statements
Ed. note: “Candidate statements reflect the opinion of the author and do not necessarily represent the official position of the Academy of
Model Aeronautics. Candidate statements are published word-for-word as submitted by the candidate and are not edited by the Academy of
Model Aeronautics’ staff for grammar, punctuation, or spelling. The Academy of Model Aeronautics reserves the right to remove any portion
of any statement which it determines, in its sole discretion, may contain potentially defamatory remarks.”
You’re learning but still missing a few pieces ...
Just a few things you can discover at Sport Aviator:
• How to get started in RC
• How to set up a basic or advanced trainer
• The differences between advanced and basic trainers
• About tuning, maintaining, and operating a glow
engine
• What makes for a good second airplane
MA’s Sport Aviator
www.masportaviator.com
(Always free for everyone around the world—not just AMA members.)
community awareness of our sport. District
funds have sponsored 22 events bringing
more clubs and members together for what
we believe it is all about; friendship, flying,
and having fun.
I have spoken to public and private
property managers on behalf of clubs to
help acquire or prevent the loss of flying
sites. We have engaged attorneys to assist
clubs when noise and overfly issues
threaten to stop flying activity. District
funds have bought flight simulators and
model construction materials for
aeromodeling education programs.
During the flying season, I am at events
every weekend. I frequently attend club
meetings to answer AMA questions,
provide advice, settle disputes, or present
awards.
On a National level, as a board member
of the Executive Council, I represent your
interest with the AMA. I serve on four
committees and chair two, the Bylaw and
Event Sanction Committee. The AMA
president appointed me to lead a 50 member
Strategic Task Force to evaluate AMA
programs, identify opportunities, and
recommend solutions to strengthen and
promote the mission, vision, and viability of
the AMA.
It is a privilege and honor to serve as
District I Vice President. Please show your
continued support by voting in this election.
District V Vice President
Jose R. Soto
Apopka, Florida
My fellow modelers, I would like to
represent you in District V and assure the
hard work of my predecessors does not
wane! I would like to focus on the ideas
that you, the membership of AMA, have
for our advancement, not only as modelers,
but also as leaders in our communities. I
will bring these ideas to the Executive
Council and share them with everyone.
I would like to establish a
communication channel between all of us
in the District and also share ideas with
successful clubs within the District, I will
work with all of you so we can introduce
the young men & women in society to our
sport and hobby, and work hand in hand
with those establishing new clubs so we
can obtain and keep new flying fields.
In the past I have been in every position
our clubs have from maintenance to
president. Also, as an AMA leader member
and AVP, I have helped other clubs in the
area get started, I’ve spoken to political
leaders, rubbed elbows with mayors and
got the word out in our schools.
As your District V representative, I will
assure you have a voice and opinion in our
hobby so we can continue to grow. I built
my first model more than forty years ago
and I continue to build today. I am a
disabled American veteran and served you
proudly in the U.S. Coast Guard. I look
forward to continued service to you, my
fellow modelers.
District IX Vice President
Jim Wallen
Arvada, Colorado
When Mark Smith became the Executive
Vice President for AMA, he asked me to fill
his position of District IX Vice President for
the last two years. I gladly accepted and have
been active in that position. I have
represented District IX on the Executive
Council, am a member of the Finance
Committee for AMA as well as chairing the
Executive Director Review Committee. I
strongly believe that AMA needs to bring
additional focus to the needs of the
membership and the local clubs.
I am a retiree from Ball Corporation after
38 years of service. I held the positions of
Chemical Process Controller, Project
Engineer, Project Manager, Manager of
Capital Planning and Director of International
Engineering.
I have been involved with our hobby for
the last 25 years. I have served as our local
club president and chair the Denver Metro
Area Council.
My goals for District IX are as follows:
• Continue participation in AMA Finance
Committee to assure balanced budgets
and overall financial accountability and
responsibility.
• Provide leadership on the Executive
Council to promote the needs and desires
of local clubs and membership.
• Assure proper and efficient leadership
from the office of the Executive
Director.
• Address the issues of declining
membership. We must all support
programs that present AMA in a
favorable light to the general public. We
must be proactive and adopt a
progressive outlook to reverse the trend.
• Accelerate youth programs. They are the
investment in our future.
• Continue to look for opportunities for
site development and acquisition. We
need to develop creative ways to assist
local clubs to own their own site.
I am asking for your support by electing
me to serve as your representative to AMA
and the Executive Council. I pledge to
honestly represent you and AMA to the best
of my ability. Thank you.
District X Vice President
Mike Brown
Bella Vista, California
This is the campaign statement for
Michael Brown for District X Vice President.
When starting to write this campaign
statement I thought, what do I write? Do I
write how many times I have been a club
officer ? Or how many volunteer positions I
have held for clubs, for the AMA , for special
interest groups? Do I write about how many I
still hold, what I am still doing? Do I write
how many years I have been a modeler, or
how many airplanes I now own, I have built
or I have flown? Do I write about the many
events I have put on, or the organizations I
helped by them? Then I thought, what would
be important to me? I thought, I want a
person in this position who has been a
modeler for years, one who has volunteered
for many things, in many ways. I want a
person who has been dedicated to this hobby
and the modelers over many years.
So I ask all of you to do the same, to
decide what qualifications are important,
which ones a person needs have done to do
this job, what amount of experience is
necessary. Then ask yourself if I am the most
qualified candidate running for your vote. I
hold this position in the highest regard. I have
been volunteering, working toward being
qualified to do this job for a long time and
finally after all those years of volunteering I
feel qualified. I love the hobby and I want to
be your District X Vice President, so I can
work for you, the members and clubs of
District X.
The most important thing is that you vote.
Lawrence Tougas
Fairfield, California
As a candidate in last year’s District X
election, I met many outstanding modelers. It
was the experience of a lifetime. Jim Giffin
and I had the closest election in AMA
history; we were only 34 votes apart, a virtual
tie. It was 34 votes in a district with 28,000
members, but those 34 votes elected Jim. I
wished him all the best. Sadly Jim passed
away in January; we are now having a special
election to determine who will lead District
X.
I believe my combination of modeling,
aviation and business experience makes me
the best qualified candidate to be District X
VP.
My top 3 issues remain the same; help
clubs keep their flying fields, improve the
District X web presence, and establish an
AMA western United States flying site in
District X.
I value the support I got from all of you
who voted for me last year and I will work to
earn your vote again. Please ask your friends
to vote for me too.
For those of you who voted for Jim please
take another look at me. I have a website that
details all of the reasons I believe I am the
best candidate to be Vice-President and
would sincerely appreciate your vote.
For those who did not vote last year
because you feel it makes no difference who
is elected, I understand your frustration. All I
can say is please give me a chance to prove
that the right person can make a difference. I
have big plans for District X and can’t wait
to pursue them. Join with me and cast your
vote.
Read more at; http://ama-district-xelection.
blogspot.com.
Happy Landings,
Lawrence Tougas
AMA 232
P.S. Make a difference. Vote today!!!
160 MODEL AVIATION
Edition: Model Aviation - 2010/11
Page Numbers: 158,159,160
158 MODEL AVIATION
Note: VPs from Districts V, VII, and XI as well as the NAA
representative were not in attendance.
IT WAS MOVED, seconded, and approved by acclamation to
approve the items in the Consent Agenda. (Consent agenda: the
minutes of the April 24-25, 2010, Executive Council meeting; read
into the minutes the conference call of June 30, 2010.)
Motion I: Moved by M. Smith (EVP) and seconded by C. Bauer (VI)
to accept the report of the Nominating Committee. The names on the
2010 ballot will be:
President Dave Mathewson (incumbent)
District I Andy Argenio (incumbent)
District V Jose Soto (interim VP)
District IX Jim Wallen (incumbent)
District X Michael Brown (interim VP)
Larry Tougas
Motion passed unanimously.
Motion II: Moved by M. Smith (EVP) and seconded by C. Bauer
(VI) to count the 2012 election ballots (to be counted in the fall of
2011), either internally and/or through electronic means.
Motion passed unanimously.
Motion III: Moved by B. Brown (III) and seconded by B. Teague
(IV) to accept the report of the Publications Committee as policy.
Motion passed: 8-Y; 1-N (X).
Motion IV: Moved by J. Rice (VIII) and seconded by M. Brown (X)
to approve the Safety Code submitted August 14, 2010, as modified:
Item A. 2. (e) – change “conformance” to “compliance;” change
“AMA Experimental Aircraft program” to “Large Model Aircraft
program.” Item A. 2. (j) – change “conformance” to “compliance;”
change “AMA Safety Regulations for turbine operation” to “AMA
Turbine Regulations.” Item B. 10. – Delete this item.
Motion passed unanimously.
Motion V: Moved by G. Fitch (II) and seconded by J. Rice (VIII)
to change the name of the Experimental Aircraft program to Large
Model Aircraft program. Additionally, pending approval of the
regulations and insurance, increase Large Model Aircraft program
(formerly Experimental Aircraft program) maximum weight from
55.1 lbs.-100 lbs. to 55.1 lbs.-125 lbs. for propeller-driven aircraft,
and, 55.1 lbs.-100 lbs. for turbine-powered aircraft.
Motion passed unanimously.
Motion VI: Moved by J. Rice (VIII) and seconded by G. Fitch (II) to
approve the recommended changes to the Large Model Aircraft
Program Requirements and Inspector Information as submitted
August 14, 2010.
Motion passed unanimously.
Motion VII: Moved by J. Rice (VII) and seconded by G. Fitch (II) to
approve the PDF document addressing Metal Blade Usage for Model
Helicopters.
Motion passed unanimously.
Motion VIII: Moved by J. Rice (VIII) and seconded by M. Brown
(X) to accept the Safety Committees recommendations to modify the
Safety Regulations for Model Aircraft Powered by Gas Turbines.
Motion passed unanimously.
Motion IX: Moved by J. Rice (VIII) and seconded by M. Smith
(EVP) to adopt the policy titled “Legal Defense Fund for AMA
Chartered Clubs,” as presented August 14, 2010.
Motion passed unanimously.
Motion X: Moved by M. Smith (EVP) and seconded by J. Wallen
(IX) to allocate $10,000 initially to enable the Museum Steering
Committee to begin the RFQ process and secure a consultant.
Funding for the consultant will be from the Museum Patron Fund.
Motion passed unanimously.
AMA News
Announcements, news, and information from the
Academy of Model Aeronautics and the elected district representatives.
AMA Executive Council Meeting
The motions and acclamations are part of the unofficial minutes of the meeting. Minutes from a given meeting are not official until
they are approved at the following quarterly Council meeting. Questions or comments concerning the motions should be addressed to
your district vice president.
August 14, 2010
Muncie, Indiana
AMA Plans Service
The AMA Plans Service has plans for all
of your building needs, but did you know
that we also cut foam wings; print fullcolor
posters, banners, and signs; and
provide window graphics? Call us today for
your quote at (800) I FLY AMA ([800] 435-
9262), ext. 507.
Go to www.modelaircraft.org/
promos.aspx to learn more about other
programs that will benefit you!
Do you want your club to
stand out?
Let AMA Custom Products help! It
offers:
• Made-to-order screen-printed apparel
• Engraved awards
• Customized vinyl banners
Call (800) I-FLY-AMA (435-9262), email
[email protected], or visit
www.modelaircraft.org/products.aspx for
more information or a price quote.
November 2010 159
AMA President
Dave Mathewson
Baldwinsville, New York
In one of my first Model Aviation
columns as president, I identified several
areas that I intended to focus on during my
term. They were flying site concerns,
relationship building with government
agencies, enhancing AMA’s education
outreach efforts, promoting model aviation,
and improving communication with our
members.
AMA has made good progress during the
last three years in addressing flying site
issues. Our League of Cities Program has
helped spread the message that model
aviation is an ideal use of municipal
properties. Our relationship with the EPA
has resulted in a number of new flying sites
throughout the country. Recently, we
restructured out Flying Site Assistance
Program to be more proactive in helping
clubs both find and retain good flying sites.
This has already had a positive impact in
helping clubs resolve flying site issues.
One of the biggest challenges facing
aeromodeling is the ongoing FAA
regulatory process designed to draft new
rules for small unmanned aircraft systems.
In 2008, we created the position of AMA
Government Affairs Representative to help
address these concerns as well as to
interface with other government agencies
that could impact model aviation. In 2010,
we contracted a Washington consultant to
help further. We need to be proactive and
prepared should any concerns involving
model aviation become a legislative issue.
All of this was done to position AMA to be
a strong advocate for model aviation and to
protect modeling from the unintended
negative consequences of potential
regulation.
We’ve made significant progress with
our education outreach efforts. In May 2010,
AMA was recognized for these efforts
when, in conjunction with the Indianapolis
Children’s Museum, we were awarded a
grant by NASA that will help us continue
this work. One of the responsibilities of our
new Education Director is to reach out to
community-based organizations like Scouts,
CAP, and others. The results of this will be
seen in the coming year. A recently signed
agreement with NASA/Goddard Space
Center will partner AMA clubs with local
schools on research programs using model
aircraft. And, our new agreement with the
EAA will provide opportunities to promote
the concept that model aviation is a perfect
stepping stone to careers in aviation and
aerospace.
We continue to build the groundwork for
increased promotion of model aviation as an
ideal family recreational activity. Engaging
prominent AMA members like Hoot Gibson,
Burt Rutan, Juan Montoya, Tom Huff, Matt
Chapman, and others will be the foundation
of this ongoing effort. However, our focus
will not only be on increasing the number
involved in aeromodeling. Our work will
also help build the credibility of what we do
as model aviation enthusiasts, creating a
positive perception of model aviation in
everyone from our friends and neighbors to
elected officials at the local to the federal
level.
We’ve made significant progress in
improving member communications. Social
networking is the quickest method to reach
young people and we entered that world in
2009. The AMA member forum continues to
grow. Our new electronic quick brief, AMA
Today, has received overwhelmingly
positive comments. Sometime early in the
last quarter of 2010, AMA will launch its
totally revised Web site. All of these efforts
have made, and will make, a significant
improvement in the way we exchange
information with our members.
Much progress has been made during the
last three years. My intent for the next three
years is to build on the progress that we
have already made. At the same time, we
will continue to look at new avenues and
opportunities to strengthen our association.
District I Vice President
Andy Argenio
Smithfield, Rhode Island
In 2004, the district AVPs and I
developed a 5 year strategic plan for district
I. Our vision was to have aeromodeling
recognized and respected as a worthwhile
and enjoyable sport. The mission objectives
included promoting aeromodeling and
providing added value and service for
district members and clubs.
In the past six years, we have introduced
clubs to national and district incentive
programs. These programs provide funds
and recognition for club events that increase
2010 Campaign Statements
Ed. note: “Candidate statements reflect the opinion of the author and do not necessarily represent the official position of the Academy of
Model Aeronautics. Candidate statements are published word-for-word as submitted by the candidate and are not edited by the Academy of
Model Aeronautics’ staff for grammar, punctuation, or spelling. The Academy of Model Aeronautics reserves the right to remove any portion
of any statement which it determines, in its sole discretion, may contain potentially defamatory remarks.”
You’re learning but still missing a few pieces ...
Just a few things you can discover at Sport Aviator:
• How to get started in RC
• How to set up a basic or advanced trainer
• The differences between advanced and basic trainers
• About tuning, maintaining, and operating a glow
engine
• What makes for a good second airplane
MA’s Sport Aviator
www.masportaviator.com
(Always free for everyone around the world—not just AMA members.)
community awareness of our sport. District
funds have sponsored 22 events bringing
more clubs and members together for what
we believe it is all about; friendship, flying,
and having fun.
I have spoken to public and private
property managers on behalf of clubs to
help acquire or prevent the loss of flying
sites. We have engaged attorneys to assist
clubs when noise and overfly issues
threaten to stop flying activity. District
funds have bought flight simulators and
model construction materials for
aeromodeling education programs.
During the flying season, I am at events
every weekend. I frequently attend club
meetings to answer AMA questions,
provide advice, settle disputes, or present
awards.
On a National level, as a board member
of the Executive Council, I represent your
interest with the AMA. I serve on four
committees and chair two, the Bylaw and
Event Sanction Committee. The AMA
president appointed me to lead a 50 member
Strategic Task Force to evaluate AMA
programs, identify opportunities, and
recommend solutions to strengthen and
promote the mission, vision, and viability of
the AMA.
It is a privilege and honor to serve as
District I Vice President. Please show your
continued support by voting in this election.
District V Vice President
Jose R. Soto
Apopka, Florida
My fellow modelers, I would like to
represent you in District V and assure the
hard work of my predecessors does not
wane! I would like to focus on the ideas
that you, the membership of AMA, have
for our advancement, not only as modelers,
but also as leaders in our communities. I
will bring these ideas to the Executive
Council and share them with everyone.
I would like to establish a
communication channel between all of us
in the District and also share ideas with
successful clubs within the District, I will
work with all of you so we can introduce
the young men & women in society to our
sport and hobby, and work hand in hand
with those establishing new clubs so we
can obtain and keep new flying fields.
In the past I have been in every position
our clubs have from maintenance to
president. Also, as an AMA leader member
and AVP, I have helped other clubs in the
area get started, I’ve spoken to political
leaders, rubbed elbows with mayors and
got the word out in our schools.
As your District V representative, I will
assure you have a voice and opinion in our
hobby so we can continue to grow. I built
my first model more than forty years ago
and I continue to build today. I am a
disabled American veteran and served you
proudly in the U.S. Coast Guard. I look
forward to continued service to you, my
fellow modelers.
District IX Vice President
Jim Wallen
Arvada, Colorado
When Mark Smith became the Executive
Vice President for AMA, he asked me to fill
his position of District IX Vice President for
the last two years. I gladly accepted and have
been active in that position. I have
represented District IX on the Executive
Council, am a member of the Finance
Committee for AMA as well as chairing the
Executive Director Review Committee. I
strongly believe that AMA needs to bring
additional focus to the needs of the
membership and the local clubs.
I am a retiree from Ball Corporation after
38 years of service. I held the positions of
Chemical Process Controller, Project
Engineer, Project Manager, Manager of
Capital Planning and Director of International
Engineering.
I have been involved with our hobby for
the last 25 years. I have served as our local
club president and chair the Denver Metro
Area Council.
My goals for District IX are as follows:
• Continue participation in AMA Finance
Committee to assure balanced budgets
and overall financial accountability and
responsibility.
• Provide leadership on the Executive
Council to promote the needs and desires
of local clubs and membership.
• Assure proper and efficient leadership
from the office of the Executive
Director.
• Address the issues of declining
membership. We must all support
programs that present AMA in a
favorable light to the general public. We
must be proactive and adopt a
progressive outlook to reverse the trend.
• Accelerate youth programs. They are the
investment in our future.
• Continue to look for opportunities for
site development and acquisition. We
need to develop creative ways to assist
local clubs to own their own site.
I am asking for your support by electing
me to serve as your representative to AMA
and the Executive Council. I pledge to
honestly represent you and AMA to the best
of my ability. Thank you.
District X Vice President
Mike Brown
Bella Vista, California
This is the campaign statement for
Michael Brown for District X Vice President.
When starting to write this campaign
statement I thought, what do I write? Do I
write how many times I have been a club
officer ? Or how many volunteer positions I
have held for clubs, for the AMA , for special
interest groups? Do I write about how many I
still hold, what I am still doing? Do I write
how many years I have been a modeler, or
how many airplanes I now own, I have built
or I have flown? Do I write about the many
events I have put on, or the organizations I
helped by them? Then I thought, what would
be important to me? I thought, I want a
person in this position who has been a
modeler for years, one who has volunteered
for many things, in many ways. I want a
person who has been dedicated to this hobby
and the modelers over many years.
So I ask all of you to do the same, to
decide what qualifications are important,
which ones a person needs have done to do
this job, what amount of experience is
necessary. Then ask yourself if I am the most
qualified candidate running for your vote. I
hold this position in the highest regard. I have
been volunteering, working toward being
qualified to do this job for a long time and
finally after all those years of volunteering I
feel qualified. I love the hobby and I want to
be your District X Vice President, so I can
work for you, the members and clubs of
District X.
The most important thing is that you vote.
Lawrence Tougas
Fairfield, California
As a candidate in last year’s District X
election, I met many outstanding modelers. It
was the experience of a lifetime. Jim Giffin
and I had the closest election in AMA
history; we were only 34 votes apart, a virtual
tie. It was 34 votes in a district with 28,000
members, but those 34 votes elected Jim. I
wished him all the best. Sadly Jim passed
away in January; we are now having a special
election to determine who will lead District
X.
I believe my combination of modeling,
aviation and business experience makes me
the best qualified candidate to be District X
VP.
My top 3 issues remain the same; help
clubs keep their flying fields, improve the
District X web presence, and establish an
AMA western United States flying site in
District X.
I value the support I got from all of you
who voted for me last year and I will work to
earn your vote again. Please ask your friends
to vote for me too.
For those of you who voted for Jim please
take another look at me. I have a website that
details all of the reasons I believe I am the
best candidate to be Vice-President and
would sincerely appreciate your vote.
For those who did not vote last year
because you feel it makes no difference who
is elected, I understand your frustration. All I
can say is please give me a chance to prove
that the right person can make a difference. I
have big plans for District X and can’t wait
to pursue them. Join with me and cast your
vote.
Read more at; http://ama-district-xelection.
blogspot.com.
Happy Landings,
Lawrence Tougas
AMA 232
P.S. Make a difference. Vote today!!!
160 MODEL AVIATION