The Experimental Aircraft Association’s
AirVenture 2006 was held at Wittman
Regional Airport in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, July
24-30, 2006, and AMA had a presence at
what is called the “World’s Greatest Aviation
Celebration.”
The Academy had a booth staffed by
Programs Director Jay Mealy and Bob and
Rae Underwood in Hangar A of the main
exhibit area. Also in attendance were worldclass
aeromodelers Remi Beringer of France
and Erik Olson of the US, who had just
competed in the CL World Championships in
Spain July 16-24. Remi won the F2B (CL
Precision Aerobatics) title, and Eric placed
third in the F2A (CL Speed) Junior class.
KidVenture is a daily event at AirVenture
in which kids can participate in dozens of
aviation-related activities. A youngster could
build a rubber-powered balsa airplane, a
model rocket, or a kite, and craft a propeller
and get the EAA logo burnt into it. The
propellers made nice souvenirs on which to
get celebrity signatures at the “Hero Stage,”
which featured famous full-scale pilots.
INtheAIRAMA HEADQUARTERS AND MEMBER NEWS
October 2006 9
AMA at Oshkosh AirVenture and KidVenture 2006
Oshkosh AirVenture’s KidVenture hosts activities for youngsters all week.
Kids at the AMA booth were welcome to
use the Dave Brown RC flight simulator.
Jim Krueger assists Kate Sassoross and
son in the CL circle.
L-R: Justin Van Dee, Remi Beringer, and
Erik Olson.
Make-and-take areas under the big tent were always active.
10sig1.QXD 8/24/06 11:13 AM Page 9The Northern Aces AMA air-show team
was set up in the large KidVenture booth and
displayed an RC model that was under
construction. The team also gave park flyer
demonstrations outdoors with support from
Horizon Hobby.
New this year was an opportunity to learn
aircraft riveting and practice under the
supervision of an experienced volunteer. This
was successful, as evidenced by the long line.
There was also a Piper J-3 Cub “link trainer,”
and NASA (the National Aeronautics and
Space Administration) had an exhibit.At the outdoor CL area, 1,678 individuals
got the opportunity to fly a SkyBaby aircraft
under the guidance of an instructor, some of
which were AMA members.
More than 14 kids went home with
complete RTF models, courtesy of Sig
Manufacturing and Cox Models. Thanks to
them for their support, and thanks
especially to all the volunteers who truly
make this happen.
AMA and its partners look forward to
even grander participation in KidVenture
2007. MA
—AMA HQ StaffINtheAIR
October 2006 11
Renew Your AMA Membership and Vote!
It will soon be time to renew your AMA membership for 2007. The Academy plans to mail each member’s renewal notice and
voting ballot separately the week of September 18.
The ballots will be sent—in postcard form via standard mail—to adult members in districts II, IV, VI, VII, and X, so they can
cast their votes for vice president. Several days later each member’s renewal notice will be sent using nonprofit mailing rates.
Look for your ballot in the mail; duplicates cannot be sent. If you don’t want to wait until September to renew your
membership, you may do so online at www.modelaircraft.org/preapp.aspx.
Take note if you know someone who would like to join AMA: any new adult member who signs up after September 18, 2006,
will receive his or her membership for the balance of 2006 and all of 2007 for one fee of $58. MA
—Joyce Hager
Acting Executive Director
2006 Team USA FAI Challenges
For every sport there is a world
championship dedicated to welcoming
all titleholders from various countries to
compete against each other. The
competition system encourages
development in the sport and maintains
good relations among the different
people and cultures around the globe.
Aeromodeling is considered a sport
much in the same way as motor and
cycle racing. The governing world
organization over all aviation is the
Fédération Aéronautique International
(FAI). Its list of special interests is ever
expanding and becoming more diverse
every year; a semiannual competition
schedule was structured since there are
so many FAI classes.
AMA is the governing body of
aeromodeling competitions in the US.
The Special Interest Groups (SIGs)
within our association organize and
determine who will represent the US at
the world-class level.
If you’ve ever looked at the “Contest
Calendar” section of MA and read
“Team Selection,” those are the events
that determine the team members for the
following World Championships. The
honor of competing in the Team
Selection contests is a major
achievement; but from those trials,
usually only the top three competitors are
asked to join.
These team members are enthusiasts in
the hobby just like you and me. Their
initiative and determination drives them.
The reward is a shot at the world title, but
they often sacrifice their own time and
money in the process.
AMA applauds these competitors’
passion for the sport and is proud to
recognize the following teams and the
events they have competed in, or will be
competing in, during the 2006 season.
At the 2006 FAI Junior World Free
Flight Aeromodelling Championships in
Borne, Germany, August 21-26, the F1A
(Glider) team was represented by Brian
Bauer, Tyler Secor, and Kyle Jones.
In the F1B (Model Aircraft with
Extensible Motors “Wakefield”) class,
Team USA consisted of Paul Shailor, Evan
Simon, and Taylor Gunder.
The third US team competed in the F1P
(Power Model Aircraft) class. Fliers were
Cody Secor, Anthony Ferrario, and Allan
Eck.
At the 23rd FAI World Aeromodelling
F1D Championships (Indoor Model
Aircraft) in Slanic Prahova, Romania,
October 2-7, Team USA will be proudly
represented by Fred Tellier, Vladimir
Linardic, Colin Raymond-Jones, and Peter
Olshefsky.
The 2006 FAI World Aeromodelling
Control Line Championships in Valladolid,
Spain, took place July 16-24. In F2A
(Speed), Carl Dodge, Todd Ryan, William
Naemura, and Erik Olson (Junior member)
proudly placed among the top 10 finishers.
In the F2B (Precision Aerobatics) arena
the Senior team of David Fitzgerald, Paul
Walker, and Robin Hunt landed the US on
the third-place podium. Also in attendance
and flying under the US flag were Junior
representative Chris Rud—the defending
Junior F2B World Champion—Robbie
Gruber, and defending Senior World
Champion William Werwage.
In the F2C (Team Race) category,
pilots are matched with a pit man.
Representing the US were the pilot/crew
teams of Larry Dziak/Bob Oge, Tom
Fluker/Dick Lambert, and Jason
Allen/Bob Whitney.
At the F2D (Combat) circles the US
was represented by Michael Willcox,
Holden Hill (Junior member), Andrey
Nadein, and Chuck Rudner.
The 5th FAI World Aeromodelling
Championships for RC Gliders—class
F3J—was held in Martin, Slovakia, July
30-August 6. Team USA Senior pilots
Joe Wurts, Skip Miller, and Tom
Kiesling competed with Junior pilots
Joseph Newcomb, Cody Remington, and
Casey Adamczyk.
The F3J competition is unique; to
launch the models, two people at the end
of the towline pull the 3-meter gliders
into the sky. That vital Team USA crew
was made up of Craig Greening, Phil
Barnes, Chris Keller, Franklin Burnoski,
Bob Vixie, and Barry Kennedy.
At the 19th FAI Scale Aeromodelling
Championships in Norrköping, Sweden,
RC and CL events were held July 13-23.
In F4B (CL) the US team consisted of
Chuck Snyder, Dale Campbell, Ralph
Burnstine, and Dick Byron. In F4C (RC)
Team USA was Hal Parenti, Gary
Parenti, and Charles Baker.
The FAI World Aeromodelling
Championships for RC Electric Gliders
and Racers was held August 17-26 in
Pitesti, Romania. This competition
included F5B (Motor Gliders) and F5D
(Pylon Racers) classes. The US team
consisted of Jeff Keesaman, Steve Neu,
Thomas Pils, and David Pitcairn
(alternate).
The Academy—members and staff—
owes these individuals and the SIGs a
debt of gratitude. Their dedication to the
sport of aeromodeling will be a benefit to
everyone in our hobby. Thank you! MA
—Michael Ramsey
MA Associate Editor
10sig1.QXD 8/25/06 9:55 AM Page 11INtheAIR
12 MODEL AVIATION
Since questions have recently been directed to the Academy from various sources, following are advisories regarding dealing with lawenforcement
agencies and the media when asked about model-aviation activities and our national security.
It is important to remind our members, clubs, and industry partners how to best represent our sport under such circumstances.
First and most important, cooperate. Once the representatives have established their identity—any legitimate officer or investigator will
do this—cooperate by answering all questions honestly, politely, and with care.
Please take these inquiries seriously, and don’t forget the impact your answers and attitude could have on your flying privileges, not only
locally but nationally. These are the times to give factual information and not the time to brag on your “modeling exploits.”
Even though you are answering questions to determine the security risk model airplanes may pose, you may also be answering questions
being asked by people who have never experienced our sport. You may be teaching them about the activity they are investigating; if that is
the case, you want them to be well informed so they can fully appreciate what our activity is about.
Second, always remember to direct investigators or officers to the Academy of Model Aeronautics—your national organization—for any
additional information they may need. We have a good rapport with the agencies responsible and will be more than willing to assist at any
level necessary.
Establishing a good working relationship with such agencies is important not only to our national security, but to the efforts put forth to
maintain our privilege to continue participating in the sport we all cherish.
Following is a copy of the Media Advisory AMA issued in April 2003. If you are approached by members of the media, please keep the
following points in mind.
“We are sending this advisory as a result of recent events involving the news media making contact with local AMA Chartered Clubs, or
individuals.
“In today’s tense atmosphere of terrorist threats, possible military actions, etc., there appears to be exuberance on the part of news
agencies and individual reporters to gather information concerning the use of model aircraft as possible security risks. Many times, in an
effort to take advantage of the opportunity to garner some public exposure for their local flying activities, the members are surprised when the
news release does not resemble what they had assumed would be published. This results in negative press for the sport and local participants,
and may spread misinformation.
“As a service to all AMA Chartered Clubs, we are suggesting that if you or your club is contacted by TV, radio, newspaper, or internet
reporters for interviews, other than coverage of such activities as fly-ins, mall shows, airport awareness days, etc., you direct them to the
AMA Headquarters for information. If in doubt please err on the side of caution.
“Our main purpose for the ‘Advisory’ was to bring the matter to the attention of our members and remind them of how important it is to
be cautious when giving interviews during these times. We are all aware of how communications can be misunderstood or misinterpreted and
how reporters can sometimes inject their own perceptions. All we can ask is that anyone speaking on behalf of our modeling activities be
aware of what the consequences of their words might be.
“At any time please contact [Programs Director] Jay Mealy at AMA Headquarters with questions, comments, or concerns ... (765) 287-
1256, extension 270 [office]; (765) 749-4841 [cell]; [email protected].” MA
—Programs Department
After months of hard work, museum volunteers Tom Gurbach
and Don Sanqunetti completed the hands-on wind-tunnel exhibit
designed by Dave Robelen.
Several years ago, Dave heard that the museum was
interested in building a wind tunnel. He donated the plans, the
Model Aviation and Our National Security
Museum News
July 24, 2006, AMA’s National Model Aviation Museum
provided an exhibit, hands-on displays, and an RC demonstration at
the first Aerospace Conference hosted by Taylor University in
Upland, Indiana.
The conference was organized to highlight aerospace
achievements by universities and businesses in Indiana, as well as to
provide a venue to share ideas. Attendees included aerospace
executives, university faculty and students, and business leaders from
across Indiana.
It was exciting for the museum to be invited to this event; it
showed that conference organizers recognized the value of model
aviation as a tool to teach science and math and as an integral part of
aerospace as a whole. MA
—Michael Smith
Museum Director
Wind Tunnel Exhibit
Aerospace Conference
model aircraft, and some of the electronic components used in
the exhibit.
The exhibit allows museum visitors to “fly” a small model
aircraft inside the wind tunnel using a radio transmitter to control
the airplane’s ailerons, rudder, and elevator. Throttle actually controls
the electric motor that pulls air through the tunnel. This illustrates to
visitors how control surfaces affect yaw, pitch, and roll.
Don Sanqunetti (L) and Tom Gurbach install the wind-tunnel
exhibit in the museum’s hands-on area.
10sig1.QXD 8/24/06 11:16 AM Page 12
Edition: Model Aviation - 2006/10
Page Numbers: 9,10,11,12
Edition: Model Aviation - 2006/10
Page Numbers: 9,10,11,12
The Experimental Aircraft Association’s
AirVenture 2006 was held at Wittman
Regional Airport in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, July
24-30, 2006, and AMA had a presence at
what is called the “World’s Greatest Aviation
Celebration.”
The Academy had a booth staffed by
Programs Director Jay Mealy and Bob and
Rae Underwood in Hangar A of the main
exhibit area. Also in attendance were worldclass
aeromodelers Remi Beringer of France
and Erik Olson of the US, who had just
competed in the CL World Championships in
Spain July 16-24. Remi won the F2B (CL
Precision Aerobatics) title, and Eric placed
third in the F2A (CL Speed) Junior class.
KidVenture is a daily event at AirVenture
in which kids can participate in dozens of
aviation-related activities. A youngster could
build a rubber-powered balsa airplane, a
model rocket, or a kite, and craft a propeller
and get the EAA logo burnt into it. The
propellers made nice souvenirs on which to
get celebrity signatures at the “Hero Stage,”
which featured famous full-scale pilots.
INtheAIRAMA HEADQUARTERS AND MEMBER NEWS
October 2006 9
AMA at Oshkosh AirVenture and KidVenture 2006
Oshkosh AirVenture’s KidVenture hosts activities for youngsters all week.
Kids at the AMA booth were welcome to
use the Dave Brown RC flight simulator.
Jim Krueger assists Kate Sassoross and
son in the CL circle.
L-R: Justin Van Dee, Remi Beringer, and
Erik Olson.
Make-and-take areas under the big tent were always active.
10sig1.QXD 8/24/06 11:13 AM Page 9The Northern Aces AMA air-show team
was set up in the large KidVenture booth and
displayed an RC model that was under
construction. The team also gave park flyer
demonstrations outdoors with support from
Horizon Hobby.
New this year was an opportunity to learn
aircraft riveting and practice under the
supervision of an experienced volunteer. This
was successful, as evidenced by the long line.
There was also a Piper J-3 Cub “link trainer,”
and NASA (the National Aeronautics and
Space Administration) had an exhibit.At the outdoor CL area, 1,678 individuals
got the opportunity to fly a SkyBaby aircraft
under the guidance of an instructor, some of
which were AMA members.
More than 14 kids went home with
complete RTF models, courtesy of Sig
Manufacturing and Cox Models. Thanks to
them for their support, and thanks
especially to all the volunteers who truly
make this happen.
AMA and its partners look forward to
even grander participation in KidVenture
2007. MA
—AMA HQ StaffINtheAIR
October 2006 11
Renew Your AMA Membership and Vote!
It will soon be time to renew your AMA membership for 2007. The Academy plans to mail each member’s renewal notice and
voting ballot separately the week of September 18.
The ballots will be sent—in postcard form via standard mail—to adult members in districts II, IV, VI, VII, and X, so they can
cast their votes for vice president. Several days later each member’s renewal notice will be sent using nonprofit mailing rates.
Look for your ballot in the mail; duplicates cannot be sent. If you don’t want to wait until September to renew your
membership, you may do so online at www.modelaircraft.org/preapp.aspx.
Take note if you know someone who would like to join AMA: any new adult member who signs up after September 18, 2006,
will receive his or her membership for the balance of 2006 and all of 2007 for one fee of $58. MA
—Joyce Hager
Acting Executive Director
2006 Team USA FAI Challenges
For every sport there is a world
championship dedicated to welcoming
all titleholders from various countries to
compete against each other. The
competition system encourages
development in the sport and maintains
good relations among the different
people and cultures around the globe.
Aeromodeling is considered a sport
much in the same way as motor and
cycle racing. The governing world
organization over all aviation is the
Fédération Aéronautique International
(FAI). Its list of special interests is ever
expanding and becoming more diverse
every year; a semiannual competition
schedule was structured since there are
so many FAI classes.
AMA is the governing body of
aeromodeling competitions in the US.
The Special Interest Groups (SIGs)
within our association organize and
determine who will represent the US at
the world-class level.
If you’ve ever looked at the “Contest
Calendar” section of MA and read
“Team Selection,” those are the events
that determine the team members for the
following World Championships. The
honor of competing in the Team
Selection contests is a major
achievement; but from those trials,
usually only the top three competitors are
asked to join.
These team members are enthusiasts in
the hobby just like you and me. Their
initiative and determination drives them.
The reward is a shot at the world title, but
they often sacrifice their own time and
money in the process.
AMA applauds these competitors’
passion for the sport and is proud to
recognize the following teams and the
events they have competed in, or will be
competing in, during the 2006 season.
At the 2006 FAI Junior World Free
Flight Aeromodelling Championships in
Borne, Germany, August 21-26, the F1A
(Glider) team was represented by Brian
Bauer, Tyler Secor, and Kyle Jones.
In the F1B (Model Aircraft with
Extensible Motors “Wakefield”) class,
Team USA consisted of Paul Shailor, Evan
Simon, and Taylor Gunder.
The third US team competed in the F1P
(Power Model Aircraft) class. Fliers were
Cody Secor, Anthony Ferrario, and Allan
Eck.
At the 23rd FAI World Aeromodelling
F1D Championships (Indoor Model
Aircraft) in Slanic Prahova, Romania,
October 2-7, Team USA will be proudly
represented by Fred Tellier, Vladimir
Linardic, Colin Raymond-Jones, and Peter
Olshefsky.
The 2006 FAI World Aeromodelling
Control Line Championships in Valladolid,
Spain, took place July 16-24. In F2A
(Speed), Carl Dodge, Todd Ryan, William
Naemura, and Erik Olson (Junior member)
proudly placed among the top 10 finishers.
In the F2B (Precision Aerobatics) arena
the Senior team of David Fitzgerald, Paul
Walker, and Robin Hunt landed the US on
the third-place podium. Also in attendance
and flying under the US flag were Junior
representative Chris Rud—the defending
Junior F2B World Champion—Robbie
Gruber, and defending Senior World
Champion William Werwage.
In the F2C (Team Race) category,
pilots are matched with a pit man.
Representing the US were the pilot/crew
teams of Larry Dziak/Bob Oge, Tom
Fluker/Dick Lambert, and Jason
Allen/Bob Whitney.
At the F2D (Combat) circles the US
was represented by Michael Willcox,
Holden Hill (Junior member), Andrey
Nadein, and Chuck Rudner.
The 5th FAI World Aeromodelling
Championships for RC Gliders—class
F3J—was held in Martin, Slovakia, July
30-August 6. Team USA Senior pilots
Joe Wurts, Skip Miller, and Tom
Kiesling competed with Junior pilots
Joseph Newcomb, Cody Remington, and
Casey Adamczyk.
The F3J competition is unique; to
launch the models, two people at the end
of the towline pull the 3-meter gliders
into the sky. That vital Team USA crew
was made up of Craig Greening, Phil
Barnes, Chris Keller, Franklin Burnoski,
Bob Vixie, and Barry Kennedy.
At the 19th FAI Scale Aeromodelling
Championships in Norrköping, Sweden,
RC and CL events were held July 13-23.
In F4B (CL) the US team consisted of
Chuck Snyder, Dale Campbell, Ralph
Burnstine, and Dick Byron. In F4C (RC)
Team USA was Hal Parenti, Gary
Parenti, and Charles Baker.
The FAI World Aeromodelling
Championships for RC Electric Gliders
and Racers was held August 17-26 in
Pitesti, Romania. This competition
included F5B (Motor Gliders) and F5D
(Pylon Racers) classes. The US team
consisted of Jeff Keesaman, Steve Neu,
Thomas Pils, and David Pitcairn
(alternate).
The Academy—members and staff—
owes these individuals and the SIGs a
debt of gratitude. Their dedication to the
sport of aeromodeling will be a benefit to
everyone in our hobby. Thank you! MA
—Michael Ramsey
MA Associate Editor
10sig1.QXD 8/25/06 9:55 AM Page 11INtheAIR
12 MODEL AVIATION
Since questions have recently been directed to the Academy from various sources, following are advisories regarding dealing with lawenforcement
agencies and the media when asked about model-aviation activities and our national security.
It is important to remind our members, clubs, and industry partners how to best represent our sport under such circumstances.
First and most important, cooperate. Once the representatives have established their identity—any legitimate officer or investigator will
do this—cooperate by answering all questions honestly, politely, and with care.
Please take these inquiries seriously, and don’t forget the impact your answers and attitude could have on your flying privileges, not only
locally but nationally. These are the times to give factual information and not the time to brag on your “modeling exploits.”
Even though you are answering questions to determine the security risk model airplanes may pose, you may also be answering questions
being asked by people who have never experienced our sport. You may be teaching them about the activity they are investigating; if that is
the case, you want them to be well informed so they can fully appreciate what our activity is about.
Second, always remember to direct investigators or officers to the Academy of Model Aeronautics—your national organization—for any
additional information they may need. We have a good rapport with the agencies responsible and will be more than willing to assist at any
level necessary.
Establishing a good working relationship with such agencies is important not only to our national security, but to the efforts put forth to
maintain our privilege to continue participating in the sport we all cherish.
Following is a copy of the Media Advisory AMA issued in April 2003. If you are approached by members of the media, please keep the
following points in mind.
“We are sending this advisory as a result of recent events involving the news media making contact with local AMA Chartered Clubs, or
individuals.
“In today’s tense atmosphere of terrorist threats, possible military actions, etc., there appears to be exuberance on the part of news
agencies and individual reporters to gather information concerning the use of model aircraft as possible security risks. Many times, in an
effort to take advantage of the opportunity to garner some public exposure for their local flying activities, the members are surprised when the
news release does not resemble what they had assumed would be published. This results in negative press for the sport and local participants,
and may spread misinformation.
“As a service to all AMA Chartered Clubs, we are suggesting that if you or your club is contacted by TV, radio, newspaper, or internet
reporters for interviews, other than coverage of such activities as fly-ins, mall shows, airport awareness days, etc., you direct them to the
AMA Headquarters for information. If in doubt please err on the side of caution.
“Our main purpose for the ‘Advisory’ was to bring the matter to the attention of our members and remind them of how important it is to
be cautious when giving interviews during these times. We are all aware of how communications can be misunderstood or misinterpreted and
how reporters can sometimes inject their own perceptions. All we can ask is that anyone speaking on behalf of our modeling activities be
aware of what the consequences of their words might be.
“At any time please contact [Programs Director] Jay Mealy at AMA Headquarters with questions, comments, or concerns ... (765) 287-
1256, extension 270 [office]; (765) 749-4841 [cell]; [email protected].” MA
—Programs Department
After months of hard work, museum volunteers Tom Gurbach
and Don Sanqunetti completed the hands-on wind-tunnel exhibit
designed by Dave Robelen.
Several years ago, Dave heard that the museum was
interested in building a wind tunnel. He donated the plans, the
Model Aviation and Our National Security
Museum News
July 24, 2006, AMA’s National Model Aviation Museum
provided an exhibit, hands-on displays, and an RC demonstration at
the first Aerospace Conference hosted by Taylor University in
Upland, Indiana.
The conference was organized to highlight aerospace
achievements by universities and businesses in Indiana, as well as to
provide a venue to share ideas. Attendees included aerospace
executives, university faculty and students, and business leaders from
across Indiana.
It was exciting for the museum to be invited to this event; it
showed that conference organizers recognized the value of model
aviation as a tool to teach science and math and as an integral part of
aerospace as a whole. MA
—Michael Smith
Museum Director
Wind Tunnel Exhibit
Aerospace Conference
model aircraft, and some of the electronic components used in
the exhibit.
The exhibit allows museum visitors to “fly” a small model
aircraft inside the wind tunnel using a radio transmitter to control
the airplane’s ailerons, rudder, and elevator. Throttle actually controls
the electric motor that pulls air through the tunnel. This illustrates to
visitors how control surfaces affect yaw, pitch, and roll.
Don Sanqunetti (L) and Tom Gurbach install the wind-tunnel
exhibit in the museum’s hands-on area.
10sig1.QXD 8/24/06 11:16 AM Page 12
Edition: Model Aviation - 2006/10
Page Numbers: 9,10,11,12
The Experimental Aircraft Association’s
AirVenture 2006 was held at Wittman
Regional Airport in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, July
24-30, 2006, and AMA had a presence at
what is called the “World’s Greatest Aviation
Celebration.”
The Academy had a booth staffed by
Programs Director Jay Mealy and Bob and
Rae Underwood in Hangar A of the main
exhibit area. Also in attendance were worldclass
aeromodelers Remi Beringer of France
and Erik Olson of the US, who had just
competed in the CL World Championships in
Spain July 16-24. Remi won the F2B (CL
Precision Aerobatics) title, and Eric placed
third in the F2A (CL Speed) Junior class.
KidVenture is a daily event at AirVenture
in which kids can participate in dozens of
aviation-related activities. A youngster could
build a rubber-powered balsa airplane, a
model rocket, or a kite, and craft a propeller
and get the EAA logo burnt into it. The
propellers made nice souvenirs on which to
get celebrity signatures at the “Hero Stage,”
which featured famous full-scale pilots.
INtheAIRAMA HEADQUARTERS AND MEMBER NEWS
October 2006 9
AMA at Oshkosh AirVenture and KidVenture 2006
Oshkosh AirVenture’s KidVenture hosts activities for youngsters all week.
Kids at the AMA booth were welcome to
use the Dave Brown RC flight simulator.
Jim Krueger assists Kate Sassoross and
son in the CL circle.
L-R: Justin Van Dee, Remi Beringer, and
Erik Olson.
Make-and-take areas under the big tent were always active.
10sig1.QXD 8/24/06 11:13 AM Page 9The Northern Aces AMA air-show team
was set up in the large KidVenture booth and
displayed an RC model that was under
construction. The team also gave park flyer
demonstrations outdoors with support from
Horizon Hobby.
New this year was an opportunity to learn
aircraft riveting and practice under the
supervision of an experienced volunteer. This
was successful, as evidenced by the long line.
There was also a Piper J-3 Cub “link trainer,”
and NASA (the National Aeronautics and
Space Administration) had an exhibit.At the outdoor CL area, 1,678 individuals
got the opportunity to fly a SkyBaby aircraft
under the guidance of an instructor, some of
which were AMA members.
More than 14 kids went home with
complete RTF models, courtesy of Sig
Manufacturing and Cox Models. Thanks to
them for their support, and thanks
especially to all the volunteers who truly
make this happen.
AMA and its partners look forward to
even grander participation in KidVenture
2007. MA
—AMA HQ StaffINtheAIR
October 2006 11
Renew Your AMA Membership and Vote!
It will soon be time to renew your AMA membership for 2007. The Academy plans to mail each member’s renewal notice and
voting ballot separately the week of September 18.
The ballots will be sent—in postcard form via standard mail—to adult members in districts II, IV, VI, VII, and X, so they can
cast their votes for vice president. Several days later each member’s renewal notice will be sent using nonprofit mailing rates.
Look for your ballot in the mail; duplicates cannot be sent. If you don’t want to wait until September to renew your
membership, you may do so online at www.modelaircraft.org/preapp.aspx.
Take note if you know someone who would like to join AMA: any new adult member who signs up after September 18, 2006,
will receive his or her membership for the balance of 2006 and all of 2007 for one fee of $58. MA
—Joyce Hager
Acting Executive Director
2006 Team USA FAI Challenges
For every sport there is a world
championship dedicated to welcoming
all titleholders from various countries to
compete against each other. The
competition system encourages
development in the sport and maintains
good relations among the different
people and cultures around the globe.
Aeromodeling is considered a sport
much in the same way as motor and
cycle racing. The governing world
organization over all aviation is the
Fédération Aéronautique International
(FAI). Its list of special interests is ever
expanding and becoming more diverse
every year; a semiannual competition
schedule was structured since there are
so many FAI classes.
AMA is the governing body of
aeromodeling competitions in the US.
The Special Interest Groups (SIGs)
within our association organize and
determine who will represent the US at
the world-class level.
If you’ve ever looked at the “Contest
Calendar” section of MA and read
“Team Selection,” those are the events
that determine the team members for the
following World Championships. The
honor of competing in the Team
Selection contests is a major
achievement; but from those trials,
usually only the top three competitors are
asked to join.
These team members are enthusiasts in
the hobby just like you and me. Their
initiative and determination drives them.
The reward is a shot at the world title, but
they often sacrifice their own time and
money in the process.
AMA applauds these competitors’
passion for the sport and is proud to
recognize the following teams and the
events they have competed in, or will be
competing in, during the 2006 season.
At the 2006 FAI Junior World Free
Flight Aeromodelling Championships in
Borne, Germany, August 21-26, the F1A
(Glider) team was represented by Brian
Bauer, Tyler Secor, and Kyle Jones.
In the F1B (Model Aircraft with
Extensible Motors “Wakefield”) class,
Team USA consisted of Paul Shailor, Evan
Simon, and Taylor Gunder.
The third US team competed in the F1P
(Power Model Aircraft) class. Fliers were
Cody Secor, Anthony Ferrario, and Allan
Eck.
At the 23rd FAI World Aeromodelling
F1D Championships (Indoor Model
Aircraft) in Slanic Prahova, Romania,
October 2-7, Team USA will be proudly
represented by Fred Tellier, Vladimir
Linardic, Colin Raymond-Jones, and Peter
Olshefsky.
The 2006 FAI World Aeromodelling
Control Line Championships in Valladolid,
Spain, took place July 16-24. In F2A
(Speed), Carl Dodge, Todd Ryan, William
Naemura, and Erik Olson (Junior member)
proudly placed among the top 10 finishers.
In the F2B (Precision Aerobatics) arena
the Senior team of David Fitzgerald, Paul
Walker, and Robin Hunt landed the US on
the third-place podium. Also in attendance
and flying under the US flag were Junior
representative Chris Rud—the defending
Junior F2B World Champion—Robbie
Gruber, and defending Senior World
Champion William Werwage.
In the F2C (Team Race) category,
pilots are matched with a pit man.
Representing the US were the pilot/crew
teams of Larry Dziak/Bob Oge, Tom
Fluker/Dick Lambert, and Jason
Allen/Bob Whitney.
At the F2D (Combat) circles the US
was represented by Michael Willcox,
Holden Hill (Junior member), Andrey
Nadein, and Chuck Rudner.
The 5th FAI World Aeromodelling
Championships for RC Gliders—class
F3J—was held in Martin, Slovakia, July
30-August 6. Team USA Senior pilots
Joe Wurts, Skip Miller, and Tom
Kiesling competed with Junior pilots
Joseph Newcomb, Cody Remington, and
Casey Adamczyk.
The F3J competition is unique; to
launch the models, two people at the end
of the towline pull the 3-meter gliders
into the sky. That vital Team USA crew
was made up of Craig Greening, Phil
Barnes, Chris Keller, Franklin Burnoski,
Bob Vixie, and Barry Kennedy.
At the 19th FAI Scale Aeromodelling
Championships in Norrköping, Sweden,
RC and CL events were held July 13-23.
In F4B (CL) the US team consisted of
Chuck Snyder, Dale Campbell, Ralph
Burnstine, and Dick Byron. In F4C (RC)
Team USA was Hal Parenti, Gary
Parenti, and Charles Baker.
The FAI World Aeromodelling
Championships for RC Electric Gliders
and Racers was held August 17-26 in
Pitesti, Romania. This competition
included F5B (Motor Gliders) and F5D
(Pylon Racers) classes. The US team
consisted of Jeff Keesaman, Steve Neu,
Thomas Pils, and David Pitcairn
(alternate).
The Academy—members and staff—
owes these individuals and the SIGs a
debt of gratitude. Their dedication to the
sport of aeromodeling will be a benefit to
everyone in our hobby. Thank you! MA
—Michael Ramsey
MA Associate Editor
10sig1.QXD 8/25/06 9:55 AM Page 11INtheAIR
12 MODEL AVIATION
Since questions have recently been directed to the Academy from various sources, following are advisories regarding dealing with lawenforcement
agencies and the media when asked about model-aviation activities and our national security.
It is important to remind our members, clubs, and industry partners how to best represent our sport under such circumstances.
First and most important, cooperate. Once the representatives have established their identity—any legitimate officer or investigator will
do this—cooperate by answering all questions honestly, politely, and with care.
Please take these inquiries seriously, and don’t forget the impact your answers and attitude could have on your flying privileges, not only
locally but nationally. These are the times to give factual information and not the time to brag on your “modeling exploits.”
Even though you are answering questions to determine the security risk model airplanes may pose, you may also be answering questions
being asked by people who have never experienced our sport. You may be teaching them about the activity they are investigating; if that is
the case, you want them to be well informed so they can fully appreciate what our activity is about.
Second, always remember to direct investigators or officers to the Academy of Model Aeronautics—your national organization—for any
additional information they may need. We have a good rapport with the agencies responsible and will be more than willing to assist at any
level necessary.
Establishing a good working relationship with such agencies is important not only to our national security, but to the efforts put forth to
maintain our privilege to continue participating in the sport we all cherish.
Following is a copy of the Media Advisory AMA issued in April 2003. If you are approached by members of the media, please keep the
following points in mind.
“We are sending this advisory as a result of recent events involving the news media making contact with local AMA Chartered Clubs, or
individuals.
“In today’s tense atmosphere of terrorist threats, possible military actions, etc., there appears to be exuberance on the part of news
agencies and individual reporters to gather information concerning the use of model aircraft as possible security risks. Many times, in an
effort to take advantage of the opportunity to garner some public exposure for their local flying activities, the members are surprised when the
news release does not resemble what they had assumed would be published. This results in negative press for the sport and local participants,
and may spread misinformation.
“As a service to all AMA Chartered Clubs, we are suggesting that if you or your club is contacted by TV, radio, newspaper, or internet
reporters for interviews, other than coverage of such activities as fly-ins, mall shows, airport awareness days, etc., you direct them to the
AMA Headquarters for information. If in doubt please err on the side of caution.
“Our main purpose for the ‘Advisory’ was to bring the matter to the attention of our members and remind them of how important it is to
be cautious when giving interviews during these times. We are all aware of how communications can be misunderstood or misinterpreted and
how reporters can sometimes inject their own perceptions. All we can ask is that anyone speaking on behalf of our modeling activities be
aware of what the consequences of their words might be.
“At any time please contact [Programs Director] Jay Mealy at AMA Headquarters with questions, comments, or concerns ... (765) 287-
1256, extension 270 [office]; (765) 749-4841 [cell]; [email protected].” MA
—Programs Department
After months of hard work, museum volunteers Tom Gurbach
and Don Sanqunetti completed the hands-on wind-tunnel exhibit
designed by Dave Robelen.
Several years ago, Dave heard that the museum was
interested in building a wind tunnel. He donated the plans, the
Model Aviation and Our National Security
Museum News
July 24, 2006, AMA’s National Model Aviation Museum
provided an exhibit, hands-on displays, and an RC demonstration at
the first Aerospace Conference hosted by Taylor University in
Upland, Indiana.
The conference was organized to highlight aerospace
achievements by universities and businesses in Indiana, as well as to
provide a venue to share ideas. Attendees included aerospace
executives, university faculty and students, and business leaders from
across Indiana.
It was exciting for the museum to be invited to this event; it
showed that conference organizers recognized the value of model
aviation as a tool to teach science and math and as an integral part of
aerospace as a whole. MA
—Michael Smith
Museum Director
Wind Tunnel Exhibit
Aerospace Conference
model aircraft, and some of the electronic components used in
the exhibit.
The exhibit allows museum visitors to “fly” a small model
aircraft inside the wind tunnel using a radio transmitter to control
the airplane’s ailerons, rudder, and elevator. Throttle actually controls
the electric motor that pulls air through the tunnel. This illustrates to
visitors how control surfaces affect yaw, pitch, and roll.
Don Sanqunetti (L) and Tom Gurbach install the wind-tunnel
exhibit in the museum’s hands-on area.
10sig1.QXD 8/24/06 11:16 AM Page 12
Edition: Model Aviation - 2006/10
Page Numbers: 9,10,11,12
The Experimental Aircraft Association’s
AirVenture 2006 was held at Wittman
Regional Airport in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, July
24-30, 2006, and AMA had a presence at
what is called the “World’s Greatest Aviation
Celebration.”
The Academy had a booth staffed by
Programs Director Jay Mealy and Bob and
Rae Underwood in Hangar A of the main
exhibit area. Also in attendance were worldclass
aeromodelers Remi Beringer of France
and Erik Olson of the US, who had just
competed in the CL World Championships in
Spain July 16-24. Remi won the F2B (CL
Precision Aerobatics) title, and Eric placed
third in the F2A (CL Speed) Junior class.
KidVenture is a daily event at AirVenture
in which kids can participate in dozens of
aviation-related activities. A youngster could
build a rubber-powered balsa airplane, a
model rocket, or a kite, and craft a propeller
and get the EAA logo burnt into it. The
propellers made nice souvenirs on which to
get celebrity signatures at the “Hero Stage,”
which featured famous full-scale pilots.
INtheAIRAMA HEADQUARTERS AND MEMBER NEWS
October 2006 9
AMA at Oshkosh AirVenture and KidVenture 2006
Oshkosh AirVenture’s KidVenture hosts activities for youngsters all week.
Kids at the AMA booth were welcome to
use the Dave Brown RC flight simulator.
Jim Krueger assists Kate Sassoross and
son in the CL circle.
L-R: Justin Van Dee, Remi Beringer, and
Erik Olson.
Make-and-take areas under the big tent were always active.
10sig1.QXD 8/24/06 11:13 AM Page 9The Northern Aces AMA air-show team
was set up in the large KidVenture booth and
displayed an RC model that was under
construction. The team also gave park flyer
demonstrations outdoors with support from
Horizon Hobby.
New this year was an opportunity to learn
aircraft riveting and practice under the
supervision of an experienced volunteer. This
was successful, as evidenced by the long line.
There was also a Piper J-3 Cub “link trainer,”
and NASA (the National Aeronautics and
Space Administration) had an exhibit.At the outdoor CL area, 1,678 individuals
got the opportunity to fly a SkyBaby aircraft
under the guidance of an instructor, some of
which were AMA members.
More than 14 kids went home with
complete RTF models, courtesy of Sig
Manufacturing and Cox Models. Thanks to
them for their support, and thanks
especially to all the volunteers who truly
make this happen.
AMA and its partners look forward to
even grander participation in KidVenture
2007. MA
—AMA HQ StaffINtheAIR
October 2006 11
Renew Your AMA Membership and Vote!
It will soon be time to renew your AMA membership for 2007. The Academy plans to mail each member’s renewal notice and
voting ballot separately the week of September 18.
The ballots will be sent—in postcard form via standard mail—to adult members in districts II, IV, VI, VII, and X, so they can
cast their votes for vice president. Several days later each member’s renewal notice will be sent using nonprofit mailing rates.
Look for your ballot in the mail; duplicates cannot be sent. If you don’t want to wait until September to renew your
membership, you may do so online at www.modelaircraft.org/preapp.aspx.
Take note if you know someone who would like to join AMA: any new adult member who signs up after September 18, 2006,
will receive his or her membership for the balance of 2006 and all of 2007 for one fee of $58. MA
—Joyce Hager
Acting Executive Director
2006 Team USA FAI Challenges
For every sport there is a world
championship dedicated to welcoming
all titleholders from various countries to
compete against each other. The
competition system encourages
development in the sport and maintains
good relations among the different
people and cultures around the globe.
Aeromodeling is considered a sport
much in the same way as motor and
cycle racing. The governing world
organization over all aviation is the
Fédération Aéronautique International
(FAI). Its list of special interests is ever
expanding and becoming more diverse
every year; a semiannual competition
schedule was structured since there are
so many FAI classes.
AMA is the governing body of
aeromodeling competitions in the US.
The Special Interest Groups (SIGs)
within our association organize and
determine who will represent the US at
the world-class level.
If you’ve ever looked at the “Contest
Calendar” section of MA and read
“Team Selection,” those are the events
that determine the team members for the
following World Championships. The
honor of competing in the Team
Selection contests is a major
achievement; but from those trials,
usually only the top three competitors are
asked to join.
These team members are enthusiasts in
the hobby just like you and me. Their
initiative and determination drives them.
The reward is a shot at the world title, but
they often sacrifice their own time and
money in the process.
AMA applauds these competitors’
passion for the sport and is proud to
recognize the following teams and the
events they have competed in, or will be
competing in, during the 2006 season.
At the 2006 FAI Junior World Free
Flight Aeromodelling Championships in
Borne, Germany, August 21-26, the F1A
(Glider) team was represented by Brian
Bauer, Tyler Secor, and Kyle Jones.
In the F1B (Model Aircraft with
Extensible Motors “Wakefield”) class,
Team USA consisted of Paul Shailor, Evan
Simon, and Taylor Gunder.
The third US team competed in the F1P
(Power Model Aircraft) class. Fliers were
Cody Secor, Anthony Ferrario, and Allan
Eck.
At the 23rd FAI World Aeromodelling
F1D Championships (Indoor Model
Aircraft) in Slanic Prahova, Romania,
October 2-7, Team USA will be proudly
represented by Fred Tellier, Vladimir
Linardic, Colin Raymond-Jones, and Peter
Olshefsky.
The 2006 FAI World Aeromodelling
Control Line Championships in Valladolid,
Spain, took place July 16-24. In F2A
(Speed), Carl Dodge, Todd Ryan, William
Naemura, and Erik Olson (Junior member)
proudly placed among the top 10 finishers.
In the F2B (Precision Aerobatics) arena
the Senior team of David Fitzgerald, Paul
Walker, and Robin Hunt landed the US on
the third-place podium. Also in attendance
and flying under the US flag were Junior
representative Chris Rud—the defending
Junior F2B World Champion—Robbie
Gruber, and defending Senior World
Champion William Werwage.
In the F2C (Team Race) category,
pilots are matched with a pit man.
Representing the US were the pilot/crew
teams of Larry Dziak/Bob Oge, Tom
Fluker/Dick Lambert, and Jason
Allen/Bob Whitney.
At the F2D (Combat) circles the US
was represented by Michael Willcox,
Holden Hill (Junior member), Andrey
Nadein, and Chuck Rudner.
The 5th FAI World Aeromodelling
Championships for RC Gliders—class
F3J—was held in Martin, Slovakia, July
30-August 6. Team USA Senior pilots
Joe Wurts, Skip Miller, and Tom
Kiesling competed with Junior pilots
Joseph Newcomb, Cody Remington, and
Casey Adamczyk.
The F3J competition is unique; to
launch the models, two people at the end
of the towline pull the 3-meter gliders
into the sky. That vital Team USA crew
was made up of Craig Greening, Phil
Barnes, Chris Keller, Franklin Burnoski,
Bob Vixie, and Barry Kennedy.
At the 19th FAI Scale Aeromodelling
Championships in Norrköping, Sweden,
RC and CL events were held July 13-23.
In F4B (CL) the US team consisted of
Chuck Snyder, Dale Campbell, Ralph
Burnstine, and Dick Byron. In F4C (RC)
Team USA was Hal Parenti, Gary
Parenti, and Charles Baker.
The FAI World Aeromodelling
Championships for RC Electric Gliders
and Racers was held August 17-26 in
Pitesti, Romania. This competition
included F5B (Motor Gliders) and F5D
(Pylon Racers) classes. The US team
consisted of Jeff Keesaman, Steve Neu,
Thomas Pils, and David Pitcairn
(alternate).
The Academy—members and staff—
owes these individuals and the SIGs a
debt of gratitude. Their dedication to the
sport of aeromodeling will be a benefit to
everyone in our hobby. Thank you! MA
—Michael Ramsey
MA Associate Editor
10sig1.QXD 8/25/06 9:55 AM Page 11INtheAIR
12 MODEL AVIATION
Since questions have recently been directed to the Academy from various sources, following are advisories regarding dealing with lawenforcement
agencies and the media when asked about model-aviation activities and our national security.
It is important to remind our members, clubs, and industry partners how to best represent our sport under such circumstances.
First and most important, cooperate. Once the representatives have established their identity—any legitimate officer or investigator will
do this—cooperate by answering all questions honestly, politely, and with care.
Please take these inquiries seriously, and don’t forget the impact your answers and attitude could have on your flying privileges, not only
locally but nationally. These are the times to give factual information and not the time to brag on your “modeling exploits.”
Even though you are answering questions to determine the security risk model airplanes may pose, you may also be answering questions
being asked by people who have never experienced our sport. You may be teaching them about the activity they are investigating; if that is
the case, you want them to be well informed so they can fully appreciate what our activity is about.
Second, always remember to direct investigators or officers to the Academy of Model Aeronautics—your national organization—for any
additional information they may need. We have a good rapport with the agencies responsible and will be more than willing to assist at any
level necessary.
Establishing a good working relationship with such agencies is important not only to our national security, but to the efforts put forth to
maintain our privilege to continue participating in the sport we all cherish.
Following is a copy of the Media Advisory AMA issued in April 2003. If you are approached by members of the media, please keep the
following points in mind.
“We are sending this advisory as a result of recent events involving the news media making contact with local AMA Chartered Clubs, or
individuals.
“In today’s tense atmosphere of terrorist threats, possible military actions, etc., there appears to be exuberance on the part of news
agencies and individual reporters to gather information concerning the use of model aircraft as possible security risks. Many times, in an
effort to take advantage of the opportunity to garner some public exposure for their local flying activities, the members are surprised when the
news release does not resemble what they had assumed would be published. This results in negative press for the sport and local participants,
and may spread misinformation.
“As a service to all AMA Chartered Clubs, we are suggesting that if you or your club is contacted by TV, radio, newspaper, or internet
reporters for interviews, other than coverage of such activities as fly-ins, mall shows, airport awareness days, etc., you direct them to the
AMA Headquarters for information. If in doubt please err on the side of caution.
“Our main purpose for the ‘Advisory’ was to bring the matter to the attention of our members and remind them of how important it is to
be cautious when giving interviews during these times. We are all aware of how communications can be misunderstood or misinterpreted and
how reporters can sometimes inject their own perceptions. All we can ask is that anyone speaking on behalf of our modeling activities be
aware of what the consequences of their words might be.
“At any time please contact [Programs Director] Jay Mealy at AMA Headquarters with questions, comments, or concerns ... (765) 287-
1256, extension 270 [office]; (765) 749-4841 [cell]; [email protected].” MA
—Programs Department
After months of hard work, museum volunteers Tom Gurbach
and Don Sanqunetti completed the hands-on wind-tunnel exhibit
designed by Dave Robelen.
Several years ago, Dave heard that the museum was
interested in building a wind tunnel. He donated the plans, the
Model Aviation and Our National Security
Museum News
July 24, 2006, AMA’s National Model Aviation Museum
provided an exhibit, hands-on displays, and an RC demonstration at
the first Aerospace Conference hosted by Taylor University in
Upland, Indiana.
The conference was organized to highlight aerospace
achievements by universities and businesses in Indiana, as well as to
provide a venue to share ideas. Attendees included aerospace
executives, university faculty and students, and business leaders from
across Indiana.
It was exciting for the museum to be invited to this event; it
showed that conference organizers recognized the value of model
aviation as a tool to teach science and math and as an integral part of
aerospace as a whole. MA
—Michael Smith
Museum Director
Wind Tunnel Exhibit
Aerospace Conference
model aircraft, and some of the electronic components used in
the exhibit.
The exhibit allows museum visitors to “fly” a small model
aircraft inside the wind tunnel using a radio transmitter to control
the airplane’s ailerons, rudder, and elevator. Throttle actually controls
the electric motor that pulls air through the tunnel. This illustrates to
visitors how control surfaces affect yaw, pitch, and roll.
Don Sanqunetti (L) and Tom Gurbach install the wind-tunnel
exhibit in the museum’s hands-on area.
10sig1.QXD 8/24/06 11:16 AM Page 12