INtheAIR
AMA HEADQUARTERS AND MEMBER NEWS
October 2009 9
The 2009 F3D World Championships, for FAI’s RC Pylon
Racing class, took place July 20-26, 2009, in Ballenstedt,
Germany.
The team that represented the US consisted of pilots
Richard Verano, Travis Flynn (who finished second at the
2007 World Champs), and Gary Freeman Jr.; reigning World
Champion Randy Bridge; team manager Craig Greening; and
helper/mechanic Robert Holik.
The competitors who finished in the medal-winning spots
are as follows.
Individual
Gold: Robert van den Bosch (Netherlands)
Silver: Richard Verano (US)
Bronze: Randy Bridge (US)
Team
Gold: US
Silver: Netherlands
Bronze: Germany
To see the full results, go to www.wcf3d.de/individual.html.
To learn more about the US team, go to www.f3dusa.com.
Congratulations, team USA! MA
—AMA Headquarters
US Wins Team Gold
at F3DWorld Champs!
Winning teams on the podium at the conclusion of the contest.
L-R: Netherlands, USA, Germany. Photo courtesy www.wcf3d.de.
25 Years Ago in MA: October 1984
• The cover shows Mrs. Eilene Hunt
helping to display two Hi-Tech designs
by Thomas J. Hunt, both of which are
powered by ducted fans. This month’s
RC construction project is the Hi-Tech
2001 (plans set 456), which is on the
ground. It gets its go from an RK-20 fan
unit and O.S. .25 VF-DF engine. This
model looks like a lean, mean, fighting
machine, but its flying characteristics
are quite docile.
• Don’t miss Part 2 of Henry Haffke’s
construction article about the RC Gee
Bee Z that was featured in the previous
issue. Even if you are not building the
model, you will want to read the article;
in it, Henry continues the interesting
history of the Granville brothers.
• Sam Abdow presents his design of a
longtime favorite modeling subject: Mr.
Mulligan (plans set 455). This 60-size
CL model is presented in Sport Scale
but can be detailed to the extent of the
builder’s capabilities.
• The U.S. Indoor Championships was
contested at the State Fair Coliseum in
Detroit, Michigan. Melody and
Richard Doig do an excellent job of
covering this interesting event with
pictures and text.
• A group of modelers was invited to
the People’s Republic of China to
compete with the Chinese fliers in FF
and CL categories and to freely
exchange aeromodeling information.
Clarence Haught, who covered this
contest with many color pictures and
interesting text, found that the Chinese
have reached a state of perfection in
every modeling event.
• Reporting
on the SAM
Champs,
held at the
Bong
Recreation
Area, Dick
Stouffer
provides a nostalgic look at this
competition featuring designs of
yesteryear. Color pictures make you
feel as if you had been there.
• New products for this month include
two engines: the SuperTigre S-29
from World Engines and the Saito
FA-270T Twin from Tower Hobbies.
Ikon N’West is selling a WACO UPF-
7 RC kit, which features a 72-inch
wingspan, for $155. MA
—Rich LaGrange
AMA Librarian
10sig1.QXD 8/24/09 9:30 AM Page 9
Angus put in many hours
arranging this fly-in and contributed
the seed money to get it underway.
Volunteers from the Listowel
Model Club and the Skyharbour
Modelers of Goderich also donated
many hours to make the gettogether
a success. Margaret and
the pilots’ wives did a great job of
looking after the food booth.
The Wingham airport committee
and the council of North Huron
went out of their way to create a
place to fly, providing a 4,000-foot runway
and endless flat fields to soar over. The
people of North Huron donated the flying site.
The workers of North Huron went out
of their way to be accommodating,
providing garbage removal, putting up
fences, providing coffee and doughnuts at
the terminal, and even providing a
barbecue when we ran short.
A large number of people in the area
dropped in to see the action. I believe we
parked more than 200 cars on Sunday.
We are hoping for an even bigger
turnout next year. For event information,
contact [email protected] or bfry@
hurontel.on.ca. MA
—William Fry
INtheAIR
10 MODEL AVIATION
While making a personal trip to the Detroit area on June 4,
2009, AMA Executive Director Jim Cherry mixed AMA business
with flying pleasure.
He contacted the Skymasters Radio Control Club of Michigan,
to see if an impromptu meeting could be arranged. Working from
its e-mail list, the Skymasters asked surrounding clubs if they
could send representatives to meet with Jim.
The response was great! Officers from clubs located more than
100 miles away drove in to get the latest from the Academy. Two
Model Aviation Hall of Fame members, Pete Waters and Keith
Shaw, were present. Ken Myers, who edits the widely read
Ampeer newsletter, was also in attendance.
Jim shared valuable insights over dinner. Then it was off to the
Ultimate Soccer Arenas in Pontiac, where the Skymasters, in
conjunction with the Romeo Skyhawks, Radio Control Club of
Michigan, and Greater Detroit Soaring and Hiking Society, hosted
weekly indoor flying sessions last fall and winter.
Jim was impressed as he entered the arenas. Even though he
had seen pictures of the facility, his comment was, “Pictures don’t
do this justice.”
Using one of the meeting rooms, Jim reiterated the AMA’s
current position with the FAA and addressed questions from those
in attendance.
The activities then moved to one of the soccer fields. I
brought a variety of indoor electric-powered aircraft, and
Jim, along with a plethora of those present, got some stick
time before heading home. MA
—Joe Hass
Skymasters President
Robert (Bob) Bradford is a 98-year-old RC enthusiast who still
has a passion for flying models. He’s a longtime member of the
Sangamon Valley RC Flyers of Springfield, Illinois, and attends
meetings on a regular basis.
Bob has a bit of a problem with balance, which requires him to sit
while flying, and age has taken its toll on his coordination and
timing. But with a buddy box as backup, Bob still enjoys the hobby
as much as anyone.
According to Bob, when he was a kid, he and a friend would ride
their bicycles out to the original Springfield, Illinois, airfield, to see
Charles Lindbergh come flying in with mail as he made his flight
from Chicago to Saint Louis.
And having experienced the Great Depression as an adult, Bob
has the frugality of many who lived through that difficult time. It’s
common for him to pick a wrecked airplane out of the trash barrel
and bring it back later, repaired and ready to fly.
As a friend has mentioned, Bob always seems upbeat. All of us
should be able to have as many healthful years participating in our
enjoyable hobby as he has. MA
—Sherwin Kroll
Sangamon Valley RC Flyers
AMA Executive
Director Mixes It Up
In Detroit An Amazing
Aeromodeler
The inaugural Wingham jet fly took place
June 20-21, 2009, at the Wingham, Ontario,
Canada, airport. Angus and Margaret
McDonald sponsored the event.
Saturday morning’s weather was
extremely wet, and the attendees were hoping
for an improvement in conditions by
lunchtime. The sky started to clear at 11:30,
and fliers began bringing out their jets. Flying
had begun by noon. The rest of the day was
sunny and bright.
At the end of Saturday, 35 pilots had
registered. Many had brought two or more
aircraft. Numerous spectacular flights were
put in, and the fliers seemed satisfied with
their achievements. Pilots
registered from such locations
as Kirkland Lake, Ontario; Quebec; and
Florida.
A sit-down dinner of beef on a bun and
salads was served to 70 people Saturday night.
Andrew Coholic won the poker run and picked
up $100 in winnings, $50 of which he
graciously donated back to the event. Thanks,
Andrew. Small door prizes were handed out to
all the pilots.
Sunday morning started with fog rolling in,
but it cleared by 9:00 and 38 pilots registered.
Brian Wiebe and his 12-year-old son, Greg,
came all the way from Altona, Manitoba. Greg
flies better than I ever hope to. Ivan
Christensen put on a noon-hour demonstration.
Canada Jets
10sig1.QXD 8/24/09 9:30 AM Page 10
INtheAIR
October 2009 11
MA
A “Win-Win”
With McDonald’s
Find Ways to Fly—Even Overseas
GSWAM members meet in comfort at McDonald’s
in Hurst TX.
For years, the Greater Southwest Aero Modelers (GSWAM) of
Fort Worth, Texas, has paid a monthly fee to hold our meetings at a
local recreational center in a nearby city. During the warmer months
(when it’s really hot), we have had meetings at the flying field to save
money. The conditions at the field are not ideal; we have to put up with
heat, bugs, setting sun, and dust.
One morning, while having breakfast at McDonald’s in Hurst,
Texas, I talked with the owner, Tyrous Ingram, about our club
meetings. He suggested that we hold our second-Tuesday get-togethers
in that McDonald’s play area at 7:30 p.m.
He said that he would close the play area one hour before our
meeting so we could set up and bring our “models of the month.” He
also agreed to have signs made that would feature our club emblem,
state that a private meeting is taking place, and be posted on all doors
one hour before each meeting.
Mr. Ingram volunteered to return a portion (10%) of the money that
club members spend on food at each meeting to one of the charities
that the GSWAM sponsors each year; the Marine Corps’ Toys for Tots
was selected. The club supports a fun-fly each December, at which the
landing fee is at least one new unwrapped toy.
After agreeing by vote to gather at McDonald’s, the GSWAM
started having meetings there in May 2008. Food receipts were
collected, totaled, and turned in to the manager on duty at the end of
each meeting.
In 2008, the club spent $780. When we picked up the check made
out to Toys for Tots, we were surprised and thankful to see that it was
for $200. That money, other monetary donations, and a large van full
of toys were given to the local Marines. Through June 2009, we have
spent $637 at our meetings.
This is a true win-win agreement. The club members get a
comfortable meeting place, good food, good service, and a donation
for Toys for Tots.
McDonald’s gets our business during meetings and at other
times, since we are thankful for their support. Staff members have
gone as far as to make special trips to the restaurant to ensure that
everything has been ready for our gatherings. We also put a free
advertisement in our club newsletter each month for the five
McDonald’s that Mr. Ingram owns.
We thank the following individuals for their kindness and
generosity: Kris Hesler, McDonald’s manager for our meeting
restaurant; Jason Blanton, McDonald’s area supervisor; and
Tyrous Ingram. MA
—Chuck Rovell
GSWAM Member
“Have windsock, will
travel.” This photo was
taken in the United Arab
Emirates.
At the left, Dan McLean’s T-Rex 600 rests
up for a flight on another clear, cloudless,
hot day. Run it rich!
A group of people from different
countries gather out in the desert in the
Middle East to fly model aircraft. I have
included my “Have Windsock, Will
Travel” photo, to show how we try to beat
the heat. The temperature was roughly 107°
when I took this picture.
Shown is an official AMA windsock
that I mail-ordered. The flagpole is courtesy
of a local hardware store. It’s actually a
painting extension pole with the roller
holder cut off to accept the windsock
bushing.
I mostly mail-order parts and have the
whole T-Rex line, from 250 to 700 Pro,
over here in Abu Dhabi, United Arab
Emirates. Flying models is something to
do, and we get to see how friends do things
in their own countries.
We have 364 flying days per year, and
maybe one day of rain in the winter. We are
die-hards, no doubt! MA
—Dan McLean, P. Eng.
Sr. Technology Advisor
Weatherford Production Optimization MENA
10sig1.QXD 8/24/09 9:30 AM Page 11
On May 2, 2009, Aslam (Sam) Shahid,
an AMA member, participated in the
Science Works! program at the Museum
of Science and Industry in Chicago,
Illinois. This was an invaluable teaching
and learning experience for Sam, who
gave a presentation and demonstration
using an RC flight simulator and model
aircraft technology.
The Institute of Electrical and
Electronics Engineers (IEEE) Chicago
Section selected Sam to introduce math,
science, engineering, and technology to
youth. The IEEE’s scope of interest has
expanded into many related fields.
Young kids asked him all kinds of
questions about topics including FM vs.
2.4 GHz radios, model aircraft
technology vs. Unmanned Aerial
Vehicles, NiMH vs. Li-Poly, foam,
fiberglass, balsa, etc.
Sam loves flying RC models, since it
involves math, science, engineering, and
technology. He also likes to encourage
young kids to get into flying RC and
joining the AMA. MA
—Information provided by Sam Shahid
Edition: Model Aviation - 2009/10
Page Numbers: 9,10,11,12
Edition: Model Aviation - 2009/10
Page Numbers: 9,10,11,12
INtheAIR
AMA HEADQUARTERS AND MEMBER NEWS
October 2009 9
The 2009 F3D World Championships, for FAI’s RC Pylon
Racing class, took place July 20-26, 2009, in Ballenstedt,
Germany.
The team that represented the US consisted of pilots
Richard Verano, Travis Flynn (who finished second at the
2007 World Champs), and Gary Freeman Jr.; reigning World
Champion Randy Bridge; team manager Craig Greening; and
helper/mechanic Robert Holik.
The competitors who finished in the medal-winning spots
are as follows.
Individual
Gold: Robert van den Bosch (Netherlands)
Silver: Richard Verano (US)
Bronze: Randy Bridge (US)
Team
Gold: US
Silver: Netherlands
Bronze: Germany
To see the full results, go to www.wcf3d.de/individual.html.
To learn more about the US team, go to www.f3dusa.com.
Congratulations, team USA! MA
—AMA Headquarters
US Wins Team Gold
at F3DWorld Champs!
Winning teams on the podium at the conclusion of the contest.
L-R: Netherlands, USA, Germany. Photo courtesy www.wcf3d.de.
25 Years Ago in MA: October 1984
• The cover shows Mrs. Eilene Hunt
helping to display two Hi-Tech designs
by Thomas J. Hunt, both of which are
powered by ducted fans. This month’s
RC construction project is the Hi-Tech
2001 (plans set 456), which is on the
ground. It gets its go from an RK-20 fan
unit and O.S. .25 VF-DF engine. This
model looks like a lean, mean, fighting
machine, but its flying characteristics
are quite docile.
• Don’t miss Part 2 of Henry Haffke’s
construction article about the RC Gee
Bee Z that was featured in the previous
issue. Even if you are not building the
model, you will want to read the article;
in it, Henry continues the interesting
history of the Granville brothers.
• Sam Abdow presents his design of a
longtime favorite modeling subject: Mr.
Mulligan (plans set 455). This 60-size
CL model is presented in Sport Scale
but can be detailed to the extent of the
builder’s capabilities.
• The U.S. Indoor Championships was
contested at the State Fair Coliseum in
Detroit, Michigan. Melody and
Richard Doig do an excellent job of
covering this interesting event with
pictures and text.
• A group of modelers was invited to
the People’s Republic of China to
compete with the Chinese fliers in FF
and CL categories and to freely
exchange aeromodeling information.
Clarence Haught, who covered this
contest with many color pictures and
interesting text, found that the Chinese
have reached a state of perfection in
every modeling event.
• Reporting
on the SAM
Champs,
held at the
Bong
Recreation
Area, Dick
Stouffer
provides a nostalgic look at this
competition featuring designs of
yesteryear. Color pictures make you
feel as if you had been there.
• New products for this month include
two engines: the SuperTigre S-29
from World Engines and the Saito
FA-270T Twin from Tower Hobbies.
Ikon N’West is selling a WACO UPF-
7 RC kit, which features a 72-inch
wingspan, for $155. MA
—Rich LaGrange
AMA Librarian
10sig1.QXD 8/24/09 9:30 AM Page 9
Angus put in many hours
arranging this fly-in and contributed
the seed money to get it underway.
Volunteers from the Listowel
Model Club and the Skyharbour
Modelers of Goderich also donated
many hours to make the gettogether
a success. Margaret and
the pilots’ wives did a great job of
looking after the food booth.
The Wingham airport committee
and the council of North Huron
went out of their way to create a
place to fly, providing a 4,000-foot runway
and endless flat fields to soar over. The
people of North Huron donated the flying site.
The workers of North Huron went out
of their way to be accommodating,
providing garbage removal, putting up
fences, providing coffee and doughnuts at
the terminal, and even providing a
barbecue when we ran short.
A large number of people in the area
dropped in to see the action. I believe we
parked more than 200 cars on Sunday.
We are hoping for an even bigger
turnout next year. For event information,
contact [email protected] or bfry@
hurontel.on.ca. MA
—William Fry
INtheAIR
10 MODEL AVIATION
While making a personal trip to the Detroit area on June 4,
2009, AMA Executive Director Jim Cherry mixed AMA business
with flying pleasure.
He contacted the Skymasters Radio Control Club of Michigan,
to see if an impromptu meeting could be arranged. Working from
its e-mail list, the Skymasters asked surrounding clubs if they
could send representatives to meet with Jim.
The response was great! Officers from clubs located more than
100 miles away drove in to get the latest from the Academy. Two
Model Aviation Hall of Fame members, Pete Waters and Keith
Shaw, were present. Ken Myers, who edits the widely read
Ampeer newsletter, was also in attendance.
Jim shared valuable insights over dinner. Then it was off to the
Ultimate Soccer Arenas in Pontiac, where the Skymasters, in
conjunction with the Romeo Skyhawks, Radio Control Club of
Michigan, and Greater Detroit Soaring and Hiking Society, hosted
weekly indoor flying sessions last fall and winter.
Jim was impressed as he entered the arenas. Even though he
had seen pictures of the facility, his comment was, “Pictures don’t
do this justice.”
Using one of the meeting rooms, Jim reiterated the AMA’s
current position with the FAA and addressed questions from those
in attendance.
The activities then moved to one of the soccer fields. I
brought a variety of indoor electric-powered aircraft, and
Jim, along with a plethora of those present, got some stick
time before heading home. MA
—Joe Hass
Skymasters President
Robert (Bob) Bradford is a 98-year-old RC enthusiast who still
has a passion for flying models. He’s a longtime member of the
Sangamon Valley RC Flyers of Springfield, Illinois, and attends
meetings on a regular basis.
Bob has a bit of a problem with balance, which requires him to sit
while flying, and age has taken its toll on his coordination and
timing. But with a buddy box as backup, Bob still enjoys the hobby
as much as anyone.
According to Bob, when he was a kid, he and a friend would ride
their bicycles out to the original Springfield, Illinois, airfield, to see
Charles Lindbergh come flying in with mail as he made his flight
from Chicago to Saint Louis.
And having experienced the Great Depression as an adult, Bob
has the frugality of many who lived through that difficult time. It’s
common for him to pick a wrecked airplane out of the trash barrel
and bring it back later, repaired and ready to fly.
As a friend has mentioned, Bob always seems upbeat. All of us
should be able to have as many healthful years participating in our
enjoyable hobby as he has. MA
—Sherwin Kroll
Sangamon Valley RC Flyers
AMA Executive
Director Mixes It Up
In Detroit An Amazing
Aeromodeler
The inaugural Wingham jet fly took place
June 20-21, 2009, at the Wingham, Ontario,
Canada, airport. Angus and Margaret
McDonald sponsored the event.
Saturday morning’s weather was
extremely wet, and the attendees were hoping
for an improvement in conditions by
lunchtime. The sky started to clear at 11:30,
and fliers began bringing out their jets. Flying
had begun by noon. The rest of the day was
sunny and bright.
At the end of Saturday, 35 pilots had
registered. Many had brought two or more
aircraft. Numerous spectacular flights were
put in, and the fliers seemed satisfied with
their achievements. Pilots
registered from such locations
as Kirkland Lake, Ontario; Quebec; and
Florida.
A sit-down dinner of beef on a bun and
salads was served to 70 people Saturday night.
Andrew Coholic won the poker run and picked
up $100 in winnings, $50 of which he
graciously donated back to the event. Thanks,
Andrew. Small door prizes were handed out to
all the pilots.
Sunday morning started with fog rolling in,
but it cleared by 9:00 and 38 pilots registered.
Brian Wiebe and his 12-year-old son, Greg,
came all the way from Altona, Manitoba. Greg
flies better than I ever hope to. Ivan
Christensen put on a noon-hour demonstration.
Canada Jets
10sig1.QXD 8/24/09 9:30 AM Page 10
INtheAIR
October 2009 11
MA
A “Win-Win”
With McDonald’s
Find Ways to Fly—Even Overseas
GSWAM members meet in comfort at McDonald’s
in Hurst TX.
For years, the Greater Southwest Aero Modelers (GSWAM) of
Fort Worth, Texas, has paid a monthly fee to hold our meetings at a
local recreational center in a nearby city. During the warmer months
(when it’s really hot), we have had meetings at the flying field to save
money. The conditions at the field are not ideal; we have to put up with
heat, bugs, setting sun, and dust.
One morning, while having breakfast at McDonald’s in Hurst,
Texas, I talked with the owner, Tyrous Ingram, about our club
meetings. He suggested that we hold our second-Tuesday get-togethers
in that McDonald’s play area at 7:30 p.m.
He said that he would close the play area one hour before our
meeting so we could set up and bring our “models of the month.” He
also agreed to have signs made that would feature our club emblem,
state that a private meeting is taking place, and be posted on all doors
one hour before each meeting.
Mr. Ingram volunteered to return a portion (10%) of the money that
club members spend on food at each meeting to one of the charities
that the GSWAM sponsors each year; the Marine Corps’ Toys for Tots
was selected. The club supports a fun-fly each December, at which the
landing fee is at least one new unwrapped toy.
After agreeing by vote to gather at McDonald’s, the GSWAM
started having meetings there in May 2008. Food receipts were
collected, totaled, and turned in to the manager on duty at the end of
each meeting.
In 2008, the club spent $780. When we picked up the check made
out to Toys for Tots, we were surprised and thankful to see that it was
for $200. That money, other monetary donations, and a large van full
of toys were given to the local Marines. Through June 2009, we have
spent $637 at our meetings.
This is a true win-win agreement. The club members get a
comfortable meeting place, good food, good service, and a donation
for Toys for Tots.
McDonald’s gets our business during meetings and at other
times, since we are thankful for their support. Staff members have
gone as far as to make special trips to the restaurant to ensure that
everything has been ready for our gatherings. We also put a free
advertisement in our club newsletter each month for the five
McDonald’s that Mr. Ingram owns.
We thank the following individuals for their kindness and
generosity: Kris Hesler, McDonald’s manager for our meeting
restaurant; Jason Blanton, McDonald’s area supervisor; and
Tyrous Ingram. MA
—Chuck Rovell
GSWAM Member
“Have windsock, will
travel.” This photo was
taken in the United Arab
Emirates.
At the left, Dan McLean’s T-Rex 600 rests
up for a flight on another clear, cloudless,
hot day. Run it rich!
A group of people from different
countries gather out in the desert in the
Middle East to fly model aircraft. I have
included my “Have Windsock, Will
Travel” photo, to show how we try to beat
the heat. The temperature was roughly 107°
when I took this picture.
Shown is an official AMA windsock
that I mail-ordered. The flagpole is courtesy
of a local hardware store. It’s actually a
painting extension pole with the roller
holder cut off to accept the windsock
bushing.
I mostly mail-order parts and have the
whole T-Rex line, from 250 to 700 Pro,
over here in Abu Dhabi, United Arab
Emirates. Flying models is something to
do, and we get to see how friends do things
in their own countries.
We have 364 flying days per year, and
maybe one day of rain in the winter. We are
die-hards, no doubt! MA
—Dan McLean, P. Eng.
Sr. Technology Advisor
Weatherford Production Optimization MENA
10sig1.QXD 8/24/09 9:30 AM Page 11
On May 2, 2009, Aslam (Sam) Shahid,
an AMA member, participated in the
Science Works! program at the Museum
of Science and Industry in Chicago,
Illinois. This was an invaluable teaching
and learning experience for Sam, who
gave a presentation and demonstration
using an RC flight simulator and model
aircraft technology.
The Institute of Electrical and
Electronics Engineers (IEEE) Chicago
Section selected Sam to introduce math,
science, engineering, and technology to
youth. The IEEE’s scope of interest has
expanded into many related fields.
Young kids asked him all kinds of
questions about topics including FM vs.
2.4 GHz radios, model aircraft
technology vs. Unmanned Aerial
Vehicles, NiMH vs. Li-Poly, foam,
fiberglass, balsa, etc.
Sam loves flying RC models, since it
involves math, science, engineering, and
technology. He also likes to encourage
young kids to get into flying RC and
joining the AMA. MA
—Information provided by Sam Shahid
Edition: Model Aviation - 2009/10
Page Numbers: 9,10,11,12
INtheAIR
AMA HEADQUARTERS AND MEMBER NEWS
October 2009 9
The 2009 F3D World Championships, for FAI’s RC Pylon
Racing class, took place July 20-26, 2009, in Ballenstedt,
Germany.
The team that represented the US consisted of pilots
Richard Verano, Travis Flynn (who finished second at the
2007 World Champs), and Gary Freeman Jr.; reigning World
Champion Randy Bridge; team manager Craig Greening; and
helper/mechanic Robert Holik.
The competitors who finished in the medal-winning spots
are as follows.
Individual
Gold: Robert van den Bosch (Netherlands)
Silver: Richard Verano (US)
Bronze: Randy Bridge (US)
Team
Gold: US
Silver: Netherlands
Bronze: Germany
To see the full results, go to www.wcf3d.de/individual.html.
To learn more about the US team, go to www.f3dusa.com.
Congratulations, team USA! MA
—AMA Headquarters
US Wins Team Gold
at F3DWorld Champs!
Winning teams on the podium at the conclusion of the contest.
L-R: Netherlands, USA, Germany. Photo courtesy www.wcf3d.de.
25 Years Ago in MA: October 1984
• The cover shows Mrs. Eilene Hunt
helping to display two Hi-Tech designs
by Thomas J. Hunt, both of which are
powered by ducted fans. This month’s
RC construction project is the Hi-Tech
2001 (plans set 456), which is on the
ground. It gets its go from an RK-20 fan
unit and O.S. .25 VF-DF engine. This
model looks like a lean, mean, fighting
machine, but its flying characteristics
are quite docile.
• Don’t miss Part 2 of Henry Haffke’s
construction article about the RC Gee
Bee Z that was featured in the previous
issue. Even if you are not building the
model, you will want to read the article;
in it, Henry continues the interesting
history of the Granville brothers.
• Sam Abdow presents his design of a
longtime favorite modeling subject: Mr.
Mulligan (plans set 455). This 60-size
CL model is presented in Sport Scale
but can be detailed to the extent of the
builder’s capabilities.
• The U.S. Indoor Championships was
contested at the State Fair Coliseum in
Detroit, Michigan. Melody and
Richard Doig do an excellent job of
covering this interesting event with
pictures and text.
• A group of modelers was invited to
the People’s Republic of China to
compete with the Chinese fliers in FF
and CL categories and to freely
exchange aeromodeling information.
Clarence Haught, who covered this
contest with many color pictures and
interesting text, found that the Chinese
have reached a state of perfection in
every modeling event.
• Reporting
on the SAM
Champs,
held at the
Bong
Recreation
Area, Dick
Stouffer
provides a nostalgic look at this
competition featuring designs of
yesteryear. Color pictures make you
feel as if you had been there.
• New products for this month include
two engines: the SuperTigre S-29
from World Engines and the Saito
FA-270T Twin from Tower Hobbies.
Ikon N’West is selling a WACO UPF-
7 RC kit, which features a 72-inch
wingspan, for $155. MA
—Rich LaGrange
AMA Librarian
10sig1.QXD 8/24/09 9:30 AM Page 9
Angus put in many hours
arranging this fly-in and contributed
the seed money to get it underway.
Volunteers from the Listowel
Model Club and the Skyharbour
Modelers of Goderich also donated
many hours to make the gettogether
a success. Margaret and
the pilots’ wives did a great job of
looking after the food booth.
The Wingham airport committee
and the council of North Huron
went out of their way to create a
place to fly, providing a 4,000-foot runway
and endless flat fields to soar over. The
people of North Huron donated the flying site.
The workers of North Huron went out
of their way to be accommodating,
providing garbage removal, putting up
fences, providing coffee and doughnuts at
the terminal, and even providing a
barbecue when we ran short.
A large number of people in the area
dropped in to see the action. I believe we
parked more than 200 cars on Sunday.
We are hoping for an even bigger
turnout next year. For event information,
contact [email protected] or bfry@
hurontel.on.ca. MA
—William Fry
INtheAIR
10 MODEL AVIATION
While making a personal trip to the Detroit area on June 4,
2009, AMA Executive Director Jim Cherry mixed AMA business
with flying pleasure.
He contacted the Skymasters Radio Control Club of Michigan,
to see if an impromptu meeting could be arranged. Working from
its e-mail list, the Skymasters asked surrounding clubs if they
could send representatives to meet with Jim.
The response was great! Officers from clubs located more than
100 miles away drove in to get the latest from the Academy. Two
Model Aviation Hall of Fame members, Pete Waters and Keith
Shaw, were present. Ken Myers, who edits the widely read
Ampeer newsletter, was also in attendance.
Jim shared valuable insights over dinner. Then it was off to the
Ultimate Soccer Arenas in Pontiac, where the Skymasters, in
conjunction with the Romeo Skyhawks, Radio Control Club of
Michigan, and Greater Detroit Soaring and Hiking Society, hosted
weekly indoor flying sessions last fall and winter.
Jim was impressed as he entered the arenas. Even though he
had seen pictures of the facility, his comment was, “Pictures don’t
do this justice.”
Using one of the meeting rooms, Jim reiterated the AMA’s
current position with the FAA and addressed questions from those
in attendance.
The activities then moved to one of the soccer fields. I
brought a variety of indoor electric-powered aircraft, and
Jim, along with a plethora of those present, got some stick
time before heading home. MA
—Joe Hass
Skymasters President
Robert (Bob) Bradford is a 98-year-old RC enthusiast who still
has a passion for flying models. He’s a longtime member of the
Sangamon Valley RC Flyers of Springfield, Illinois, and attends
meetings on a regular basis.
Bob has a bit of a problem with balance, which requires him to sit
while flying, and age has taken its toll on his coordination and
timing. But with a buddy box as backup, Bob still enjoys the hobby
as much as anyone.
According to Bob, when he was a kid, he and a friend would ride
their bicycles out to the original Springfield, Illinois, airfield, to see
Charles Lindbergh come flying in with mail as he made his flight
from Chicago to Saint Louis.
And having experienced the Great Depression as an adult, Bob
has the frugality of many who lived through that difficult time. It’s
common for him to pick a wrecked airplane out of the trash barrel
and bring it back later, repaired and ready to fly.
As a friend has mentioned, Bob always seems upbeat. All of us
should be able to have as many healthful years participating in our
enjoyable hobby as he has. MA
—Sherwin Kroll
Sangamon Valley RC Flyers
AMA Executive
Director Mixes It Up
In Detroit An Amazing
Aeromodeler
The inaugural Wingham jet fly took place
June 20-21, 2009, at the Wingham, Ontario,
Canada, airport. Angus and Margaret
McDonald sponsored the event.
Saturday morning’s weather was
extremely wet, and the attendees were hoping
for an improvement in conditions by
lunchtime. The sky started to clear at 11:30,
and fliers began bringing out their jets. Flying
had begun by noon. The rest of the day was
sunny and bright.
At the end of Saturday, 35 pilots had
registered. Many had brought two or more
aircraft. Numerous spectacular flights were
put in, and the fliers seemed satisfied with
their achievements. Pilots
registered from such locations
as Kirkland Lake, Ontario; Quebec; and
Florida.
A sit-down dinner of beef on a bun and
salads was served to 70 people Saturday night.
Andrew Coholic won the poker run and picked
up $100 in winnings, $50 of which he
graciously donated back to the event. Thanks,
Andrew. Small door prizes were handed out to
all the pilots.
Sunday morning started with fog rolling in,
but it cleared by 9:00 and 38 pilots registered.
Brian Wiebe and his 12-year-old son, Greg,
came all the way from Altona, Manitoba. Greg
flies better than I ever hope to. Ivan
Christensen put on a noon-hour demonstration.
Canada Jets
10sig1.QXD 8/24/09 9:30 AM Page 10
INtheAIR
October 2009 11
MA
A “Win-Win”
With McDonald’s
Find Ways to Fly—Even Overseas
GSWAM members meet in comfort at McDonald’s
in Hurst TX.
For years, the Greater Southwest Aero Modelers (GSWAM) of
Fort Worth, Texas, has paid a monthly fee to hold our meetings at a
local recreational center in a nearby city. During the warmer months
(when it’s really hot), we have had meetings at the flying field to save
money. The conditions at the field are not ideal; we have to put up with
heat, bugs, setting sun, and dust.
One morning, while having breakfast at McDonald’s in Hurst,
Texas, I talked with the owner, Tyrous Ingram, about our club
meetings. He suggested that we hold our second-Tuesday get-togethers
in that McDonald’s play area at 7:30 p.m.
He said that he would close the play area one hour before our
meeting so we could set up and bring our “models of the month.” He
also agreed to have signs made that would feature our club emblem,
state that a private meeting is taking place, and be posted on all doors
one hour before each meeting.
Mr. Ingram volunteered to return a portion (10%) of the money that
club members spend on food at each meeting to one of the charities
that the GSWAM sponsors each year; the Marine Corps’ Toys for Tots
was selected. The club supports a fun-fly each December, at which the
landing fee is at least one new unwrapped toy.
After agreeing by vote to gather at McDonald’s, the GSWAM
started having meetings there in May 2008. Food receipts were
collected, totaled, and turned in to the manager on duty at the end of
each meeting.
In 2008, the club spent $780. When we picked up the check made
out to Toys for Tots, we were surprised and thankful to see that it was
for $200. That money, other monetary donations, and a large van full
of toys were given to the local Marines. Through June 2009, we have
spent $637 at our meetings.
This is a true win-win agreement. The club members get a
comfortable meeting place, good food, good service, and a donation
for Toys for Tots.
McDonald’s gets our business during meetings and at other
times, since we are thankful for their support. Staff members have
gone as far as to make special trips to the restaurant to ensure that
everything has been ready for our gatherings. We also put a free
advertisement in our club newsletter each month for the five
McDonald’s that Mr. Ingram owns.
We thank the following individuals for their kindness and
generosity: Kris Hesler, McDonald’s manager for our meeting
restaurant; Jason Blanton, McDonald’s area supervisor; and
Tyrous Ingram. MA
—Chuck Rovell
GSWAM Member
“Have windsock, will
travel.” This photo was
taken in the United Arab
Emirates.
At the left, Dan McLean’s T-Rex 600 rests
up for a flight on another clear, cloudless,
hot day. Run it rich!
A group of people from different
countries gather out in the desert in the
Middle East to fly model aircraft. I have
included my “Have Windsock, Will
Travel” photo, to show how we try to beat
the heat. The temperature was roughly 107°
when I took this picture.
Shown is an official AMA windsock
that I mail-ordered. The flagpole is courtesy
of a local hardware store. It’s actually a
painting extension pole with the roller
holder cut off to accept the windsock
bushing.
I mostly mail-order parts and have the
whole T-Rex line, from 250 to 700 Pro,
over here in Abu Dhabi, United Arab
Emirates. Flying models is something to
do, and we get to see how friends do things
in their own countries.
We have 364 flying days per year, and
maybe one day of rain in the winter. We are
die-hards, no doubt! MA
—Dan McLean, P. Eng.
Sr. Technology Advisor
Weatherford Production Optimization MENA
10sig1.QXD 8/24/09 9:30 AM Page 11
On May 2, 2009, Aslam (Sam) Shahid,
an AMA member, participated in the
Science Works! program at the Museum
of Science and Industry in Chicago,
Illinois. This was an invaluable teaching
and learning experience for Sam, who
gave a presentation and demonstration
using an RC flight simulator and model
aircraft technology.
The Institute of Electrical and
Electronics Engineers (IEEE) Chicago
Section selected Sam to introduce math,
science, engineering, and technology to
youth. The IEEE’s scope of interest has
expanded into many related fields.
Young kids asked him all kinds of
questions about topics including FM vs.
2.4 GHz radios, model aircraft
technology vs. Unmanned Aerial
Vehicles, NiMH vs. Li-Poly, foam,
fiberglass, balsa, etc.
Sam loves flying RC models, since it
involves math, science, engineering, and
technology. He also likes to encourage
young kids to get into flying RC and
joining the AMA. MA
—Information provided by Sam Shahid
Edition: Model Aviation - 2009/10
Page Numbers: 9,10,11,12
INtheAIR
AMA HEADQUARTERS AND MEMBER NEWS
October 2009 9
The 2009 F3D World Championships, for FAI’s RC Pylon
Racing class, took place July 20-26, 2009, in Ballenstedt,
Germany.
The team that represented the US consisted of pilots
Richard Verano, Travis Flynn (who finished second at the
2007 World Champs), and Gary Freeman Jr.; reigning World
Champion Randy Bridge; team manager Craig Greening; and
helper/mechanic Robert Holik.
The competitors who finished in the medal-winning spots
are as follows.
Individual
Gold: Robert van den Bosch (Netherlands)
Silver: Richard Verano (US)
Bronze: Randy Bridge (US)
Team
Gold: US
Silver: Netherlands
Bronze: Germany
To see the full results, go to www.wcf3d.de/individual.html.
To learn more about the US team, go to www.f3dusa.com.
Congratulations, team USA! MA
—AMA Headquarters
US Wins Team Gold
at F3DWorld Champs!
Winning teams on the podium at the conclusion of the contest.
L-R: Netherlands, USA, Germany. Photo courtesy www.wcf3d.de.
25 Years Ago in MA: October 1984
• The cover shows Mrs. Eilene Hunt
helping to display two Hi-Tech designs
by Thomas J. Hunt, both of which are
powered by ducted fans. This month’s
RC construction project is the Hi-Tech
2001 (plans set 456), which is on the
ground. It gets its go from an RK-20 fan
unit and O.S. .25 VF-DF engine. This
model looks like a lean, mean, fighting
machine, but its flying characteristics
are quite docile.
• Don’t miss Part 2 of Henry Haffke’s
construction article about the RC Gee
Bee Z that was featured in the previous
issue. Even if you are not building the
model, you will want to read the article;
in it, Henry continues the interesting
history of the Granville brothers.
• Sam Abdow presents his design of a
longtime favorite modeling subject: Mr.
Mulligan (plans set 455). This 60-size
CL model is presented in Sport Scale
but can be detailed to the extent of the
builder’s capabilities.
• The U.S. Indoor Championships was
contested at the State Fair Coliseum in
Detroit, Michigan. Melody and
Richard Doig do an excellent job of
covering this interesting event with
pictures and text.
• A group of modelers was invited to
the People’s Republic of China to
compete with the Chinese fliers in FF
and CL categories and to freely
exchange aeromodeling information.
Clarence Haught, who covered this
contest with many color pictures and
interesting text, found that the Chinese
have reached a state of perfection in
every modeling event.
• Reporting
on the SAM
Champs,
held at the
Bong
Recreation
Area, Dick
Stouffer
provides a nostalgic look at this
competition featuring designs of
yesteryear. Color pictures make you
feel as if you had been there.
• New products for this month include
two engines: the SuperTigre S-29
from World Engines and the Saito
FA-270T Twin from Tower Hobbies.
Ikon N’West is selling a WACO UPF-
7 RC kit, which features a 72-inch
wingspan, for $155. MA
—Rich LaGrange
AMA Librarian
10sig1.QXD 8/24/09 9:30 AM Page 9
Angus put in many hours
arranging this fly-in and contributed
the seed money to get it underway.
Volunteers from the Listowel
Model Club and the Skyharbour
Modelers of Goderich also donated
many hours to make the gettogether
a success. Margaret and
the pilots’ wives did a great job of
looking after the food booth.
The Wingham airport committee
and the council of North Huron
went out of their way to create a
place to fly, providing a 4,000-foot runway
and endless flat fields to soar over. The
people of North Huron donated the flying site.
The workers of North Huron went out
of their way to be accommodating,
providing garbage removal, putting up
fences, providing coffee and doughnuts at
the terminal, and even providing a
barbecue when we ran short.
A large number of people in the area
dropped in to see the action. I believe we
parked more than 200 cars on Sunday.
We are hoping for an even bigger
turnout next year. For event information,
contact [email protected] or bfry@
hurontel.on.ca. MA
—William Fry
INtheAIR
10 MODEL AVIATION
While making a personal trip to the Detroit area on June 4,
2009, AMA Executive Director Jim Cherry mixed AMA business
with flying pleasure.
He contacted the Skymasters Radio Control Club of Michigan,
to see if an impromptu meeting could be arranged. Working from
its e-mail list, the Skymasters asked surrounding clubs if they
could send representatives to meet with Jim.
The response was great! Officers from clubs located more than
100 miles away drove in to get the latest from the Academy. Two
Model Aviation Hall of Fame members, Pete Waters and Keith
Shaw, were present. Ken Myers, who edits the widely read
Ampeer newsletter, was also in attendance.
Jim shared valuable insights over dinner. Then it was off to the
Ultimate Soccer Arenas in Pontiac, where the Skymasters, in
conjunction with the Romeo Skyhawks, Radio Control Club of
Michigan, and Greater Detroit Soaring and Hiking Society, hosted
weekly indoor flying sessions last fall and winter.
Jim was impressed as he entered the arenas. Even though he
had seen pictures of the facility, his comment was, “Pictures don’t
do this justice.”
Using one of the meeting rooms, Jim reiterated the AMA’s
current position with the FAA and addressed questions from those
in attendance.
The activities then moved to one of the soccer fields. I
brought a variety of indoor electric-powered aircraft, and
Jim, along with a plethora of those present, got some stick
time before heading home. MA
—Joe Hass
Skymasters President
Robert (Bob) Bradford is a 98-year-old RC enthusiast who still
has a passion for flying models. He’s a longtime member of the
Sangamon Valley RC Flyers of Springfield, Illinois, and attends
meetings on a regular basis.
Bob has a bit of a problem with balance, which requires him to sit
while flying, and age has taken its toll on his coordination and
timing. But with a buddy box as backup, Bob still enjoys the hobby
as much as anyone.
According to Bob, when he was a kid, he and a friend would ride
their bicycles out to the original Springfield, Illinois, airfield, to see
Charles Lindbergh come flying in with mail as he made his flight
from Chicago to Saint Louis.
And having experienced the Great Depression as an adult, Bob
has the frugality of many who lived through that difficult time. It’s
common for him to pick a wrecked airplane out of the trash barrel
and bring it back later, repaired and ready to fly.
As a friend has mentioned, Bob always seems upbeat. All of us
should be able to have as many healthful years participating in our
enjoyable hobby as he has. MA
—Sherwin Kroll
Sangamon Valley RC Flyers
AMA Executive
Director Mixes It Up
In Detroit An Amazing
Aeromodeler
The inaugural Wingham jet fly took place
June 20-21, 2009, at the Wingham, Ontario,
Canada, airport. Angus and Margaret
McDonald sponsored the event.
Saturday morning’s weather was
extremely wet, and the attendees were hoping
for an improvement in conditions by
lunchtime. The sky started to clear at 11:30,
and fliers began bringing out their jets. Flying
had begun by noon. The rest of the day was
sunny and bright.
At the end of Saturday, 35 pilots had
registered. Many had brought two or more
aircraft. Numerous spectacular flights were
put in, and the fliers seemed satisfied with
their achievements. Pilots
registered from such locations
as Kirkland Lake, Ontario; Quebec; and
Florida.
A sit-down dinner of beef on a bun and
salads was served to 70 people Saturday night.
Andrew Coholic won the poker run and picked
up $100 in winnings, $50 of which he
graciously donated back to the event. Thanks,
Andrew. Small door prizes were handed out to
all the pilots.
Sunday morning started with fog rolling in,
but it cleared by 9:00 and 38 pilots registered.
Brian Wiebe and his 12-year-old son, Greg,
came all the way from Altona, Manitoba. Greg
flies better than I ever hope to. Ivan
Christensen put on a noon-hour demonstration.
Canada Jets
10sig1.QXD 8/24/09 9:30 AM Page 10
INtheAIR
October 2009 11
MA
A “Win-Win”
With McDonald’s
Find Ways to Fly—Even Overseas
GSWAM members meet in comfort at McDonald’s
in Hurst TX.
For years, the Greater Southwest Aero Modelers (GSWAM) of
Fort Worth, Texas, has paid a monthly fee to hold our meetings at a
local recreational center in a nearby city. During the warmer months
(when it’s really hot), we have had meetings at the flying field to save
money. The conditions at the field are not ideal; we have to put up with
heat, bugs, setting sun, and dust.
One morning, while having breakfast at McDonald’s in Hurst,
Texas, I talked with the owner, Tyrous Ingram, about our club
meetings. He suggested that we hold our second-Tuesday get-togethers
in that McDonald’s play area at 7:30 p.m.
He said that he would close the play area one hour before our
meeting so we could set up and bring our “models of the month.” He
also agreed to have signs made that would feature our club emblem,
state that a private meeting is taking place, and be posted on all doors
one hour before each meeting.
Mr. Ingram volunteered to return a portion (10%) of the money that
club members spend on food at each meeting to one of the charities
that the GSWAM sponsors each year; the Marine Corps’ Toys for Tots
was selected. The club supports a fun-fly each December, at which the
landing fee is at least one new unwrapped toy.
After agreeing by vote to gather at McDonald’s, the GSWAM
started having meetings there in May 2008. Food receipts were
collected, totaled, and turned in to the manager on duty at the end of
each meeting.
In 2008, the club spent $780. When we picked up the check made
out to Toys for Tots, we were surprised and thankful to see that it was
for $200. That money, other monetary donations, and a large van full
of toys were given to the local Marines. Through June 2009, we have
spent $637 at our meetings.
This is a true win-win agreement. The club members get a
comfortable meeting place, good food, good service, and a donation
for Toys for Tots.
McDonald’s gets our business during meetings and at other
times, since we are thankful for their support. Staff members have
gone as far as to make special trips to the restaurant to ensure that
everything has been ready for our gatherings. We also put a free
advertisement in our club newsletter each month for the five
McDonald’s that Mr. Ingram owns.
We thank the following individuals for their kindness and
generosity: Kris Hesler, McDonald’s manager for our meeting
restaurant; Jason Blanton, McDonald’s area supervisor; and
Tyrous Ingram. MA
—Chuck Rovell
GSWAM Member
“Have windsock, will
travel.” This photo was
taken in the United Arab
Emirates.
At the left, Dan McLean’s T-Rex 600 rests
up for a flight on another clear, cloudless,
hot day. Run it rich!
A group of people from different
countries gather out in the desert in the
Middle East to fly model aircraft. I have
included my “Have Windsock, Will
Travel” photo, to show how we try to beat
the heat. The temperature was roughly 107°
when I took this picture.
Shown is an official AMA windsock
that I mail-ordered. The flagpole is courtesy
of a local hardware store. It’s actually a
painting extension pole with the roller
holder cut off to accept the windsock
bushing.
I mostly mail-order parts and have the
whole T-Rex line, from 250 to 700 Pro,
over here in Abu Dhabi, United Arab
Emirates. Flying models is something to
do, and we get to see how friends do things
in their own countries.
We have 364 flying days per year, and
maybe one day of rain in the winter. We are
die-hards, no doubt! MA
—Dan McLean, P. Eng.
Sr. Technology Advisor
Weatherford Production Optimization MENA
10sig1.QXD 8/24/09 9:30 AM Page 11
On May 2, 2009, Aslam (Sam) Shahid,
an AMA member, participated in the
Science Works! program at the Museum
of Science and Industry in Chicago,
Illinois. This was an invaluable teaching
and learning experience for Sam, who
gave a presentation and demonstration
using an RC flight simulator and model
aircraft technology.
The Institute of Electrical and
Electronics Engineers (IEEE) Chicago
Section selected Sam to introduce math,
science, engineering, and technology to
youth. The IEEE’s scope of interest has
expanded into many related fields.
Young kids asked him all kinds of
questions about topics including FM vs.
2.4 GHz radios, model aircraft
technology vs. Unmanned Aerial
Vehicles, NiMH vs. Li-Poly, foam,
fiberglass, balsa, etc.
Sam loves flying RC models, since it
involves math, science, engineering, and
technology. He also likes to encourage
young kids to get into flying RC and
joining the AMA. MA
—Information provided by Sam Shahid