October 2007 169
2007 Campaign Statements
Ed. note: “Candidate statements reflect the opinion of the author and do not necessarily represent the official position of the Academy
of Model Aeronautics. Candidate statements are published word-for-word as submitted by the candidate and are not edited by the
Academy of Model Aeronautics’ staff for grammar, punctuation, or spelling. The Academy of Model Aeronautics reserves the right to
remove any portion of any statement which it determines, in its sole discretion, may contain potentially defamatory remarks.”
AMA News
Announcements, news, and information from the
Academy of Model Aeronautics and the elected district representatives.
AMA President
Richard D. Hanson
Scottsdale, Arizona
During my tenure on the AMA Executive Council I’ve frequently
asked myself: “Are we fulfilling our primary responsibility of
serving the AMA membership, are we achieving our mission of
furthering the educational and technological advancement of model
aviation, and are we doing everything possible to secure the future of
this great sport/hobby?”
Don’t get me wrong, I’m in no way critical of the organization or
this wonderful hobby. I’ve enjoyed every minute of my 40 plus years
in model aviation and over 14 years serving on the Executive
Council. The Academy of Model Aeronautics is an absolute superb
organization. Even so, greatness does not come easy or without
constant dedication to the ideals and principles that have made this
organization great.
The AMA has come a long way since its inception in 1936 and the
hobby has vastly grown in complexity and diversity. I believe there is
much more that could be done and should be done. It is this belief
that leads me to dedicate my personal time and efforts to the
Academy of Model Aeronautics and to seek the office of AMA
President.
The AMA must have effective leadership, a clear focus on its
purpose and an innate vision for the future. Our success in achieving
this depends greatly upon establishing a clearly defined set of goals
and objects that leads the organization toward achieving our primary
responsibility of serving the membership and brings our vision to
fruition. I offer three very simple yet critical goals for the Academy.
1) The promotion of model aviation as a recognized, viable and
acclaimed recreational activity for adults, families and our
youth. The success stories of aeromodeling and its worthy
contributions to our communities, schools, youth programs and
social welfare need to be told to our neighbors, politicians,
governing bodies and the general public.
2) The fulfillment of our National Flying Site Assistance Program
geared toward helping modelers, local clubs and associations in
the acquisition, development and retention of flying sites.
Though the criticality of this issue may very from region to
region, there is no doubt that without flying sites we will no
longer have a hobby. Moreover, the problem is not going away
but rather is growing in severity and gradually impacting all
areas across the country. The failure in establishing an effective
and proactive safeguard today decidedly foretells the gradual
dwindling and extinction of the hobby.
3) Further development of out reach programs that introduce
model aviation to newcomers of all ages. These programs need
to be enhanced and expanded to bring the enrichment of model
aviation to a huge generation of baby boomers rapidly
approaching retirement, young families struggling to lock in
traditional family values, and to a generation of troubled youth
torn by competing and often detrimental interests.
I am a commercial pilot with over 6,000 hours in helicopters and
airplanes. I’m an accomplished public administrator, having served
in leadership roles for over 26 years in public service and 27 years of
active duty and reserve component military service.
As your AMA President I pledge a resolute commitment to the
pursuit of excellence and improvement. I will make it my goal to
bring the organization together and create synergies throughout the
hobby, and I will ensure that the AMA is focused on supporting the
membership and securing the future of this great sport/hobby.
Dave Mathewson
Camillus, New York
My name is Dave Mathewson and I’m running for the office of
AMA President. I am currently the AMA District 2 VP, holding this
position for the last six years. Prior I was an AVP for John Grigg and
Wes DeCou. There are several areas that AMA needs to focus on
going forward. I have identified four that I think are a priority—
flying site acquisition and retention, enhancing our working
relationship with government agencies, expanding AMA’s education
programs, and promoting model aviation as a worthwhile
recreational activity.
Flying site issues have dominated my time as a district vice
president. I have met with every level of government in an attempt to
create flying site opportunities for our members. In 2005, as a result
of these efforts, I was invited to testify before a Congressional
committee in Washington investigating public access to federally
owned land. Experience gained through these opportunities is
cumulative and will enhance our ability on a national level to
successfully negotiate with those that control potential flying sites.
Spread spectrum technology is clearly our future. Yet there are
tens of thousands of members who are still using, and have a
significant investment in, radios that operate on 72 MHz. We need to
work with the FCC to protect our continued use of those frequencies.
It is clear that our government is concerned with UAV activity in
our national airspace. Federal regulations will eventually be created
to address these concerns. Our job will be to separate what we do as
model aviation enthusiasts from the commercial and military UAV
activity that concerns the FAA. At the same time, we need to
embrace new technologies and encourage those that offer innovative
ideas to help find ways to safely incorporate them into
aeromodeling.
Potential threats to national security continue to concern our
government. We need to work with the DHS to become a source of
information and advice on issues concerning aeromodeling. In our
district we have worked toward developing that relationship. In New
York, law enforcement authorities have reached out to AMA clubs
asking us to be observant and judicious in reporting any unusual
activities involving model aircraft. In doing this, the modeling
community has become an asset to authorities. We need to build on
this success to incorporate strong working relationships with law
enforcement throughout the country.
AMA has worked hard to develop programs to introduce model
aviation into our education system. However, most of these efforts
170 MODEL AVIATION
are directed toward the teaching profession. We need to create
programs our members and clubs can use to reach out to the younger
members of their communities through organizations like Scouting,
CAP, and community recreational programs. These programs would
allow our members direct involvement in introducing model aviation
to the children of their friends and neighbors, resulting in a growing
membership for the club along with a more visible and positive
presence in its community.
Good programs that promote model aviation are key to our
future. A greater public awareness of the value of model aviation as
a recreational and educational activity can only have positive
implications, especially in the areas I’ve touched on. Our best
resource to realize this goal lies with our members. For you to
accomplish this we must provide you with the proper tools and
support.
Member organizations like AMA rely on those who posses a
clear vision and enthusiasm to remain a viable organization meeting
the needs of its members. I believe that I have these qualities and ask
for the opportunity to lead AMA. Visit www.mathewson4pres.com.
Bill Oberdieck
Southgate, Michigan
For those of you that I have not had the pleasure of meeting, may
I introduce myself? My name is Bill Oberdieck; I am currently
serving my third term as AMA District VII Vice President for Iowa,
Michigan, Minnesota and Wisconsin.
I have the honor of being nominated as a candidate for the office
of President of the Academy of Model Aeronautics.
As Vice President for District 7 I believe I have represented the
membership with integrity and honesty. And will continue to do so
as President of the AMA.
• During my tenure, I have established an open door 24/7 policy
and web site to encourage communication between me, the
clubs and the members. I have been successful in securing new
flying sites and assisted in saving other sites that might have
been lost.
• I led the change that enables AMA members of large over 55
pound model aircraft to be able to fly their aircraft anytime,
anywhere rather than at only AMA sanctioned events provided
the aircraft and pilot are qualified.
• I have been instrumental in proposing a new Safety/Training
video to be produced and supplied to all AMA Chartered clubs.
The video will benefit not only the new pilot, but serve to assist
the older members in implementation of the AMA Safety Code.
My experience of many years as a modeler not only has allowed
me to fly a variety of models but also to be close to those who fly
everything from stick kits to turbines. And I maintain that relationship.
As your President I intend to lead the AMA in the 21st century to
accomplish the Mission, Goals and Visions of the Academy and its
members with this aggressive agenda
1) Increase the awareness of aero modeling to the general
public.
2) Increase the awareness of aero modeling to local, state and
federal governments to gain support for our activities.
3) Expand activity with all major youth groups with more AMA
participation.
4) Incorporate major support for technological advancements in
all the aero modeling venues based on factual information.
5) Eliminate snap decisions without sufficient factual
information.
6) Reduce ineffective and outdated policies.
7) Obtain greater media promotion and coverage of major
events.
8) Encourage open communications with the general
membership.
9) Promote safety and training tailored for each of the aero
modeling venues
10) Promote the enjoyable activity of all the aero modeling
venues.
As your president I will not be able to accomplish any part of the
agenda without the cooperation and support of you the member and
the Executive Council. If you agree with my proposed agenda, then
your confidence and voice will be your vote.
Together it can be and will be accomplished, your vote for me is
your voice, let it be heard.
Thank you.
William “Bill” Oberdieck
District I Vice President
Andy Argenio (Incumbent)
Smithfield, Rhode Island
In 2004 District I members elected me Vice President. I
appointed the District Officer Team from AMA leader members
who understand the issues and concerns of the membership. We
have meetings to identify and discuss the challenges and
opportunities that the district and AMA face. Each year we evaluate
our strategic plan including the district mission and vision.
Committees are established to complete the goals and objectives
including promoting aeromodeling, providing flying site assistance,
web site development, and implementing education and safety
programs.
With over 125 clubs the AVPs and I have been to numerous club
meetings to address emerging problems. We have spoken to public
and private property managers on behalf of AMA clubs to assist in
acquiring or preventing the loss of flying sites. We have provided
solutions for clubs faced with site problems created by the diversity
of aircraft and styles of flying.
During the flying season I am at flying events every weekend. I
frequently attend club meetings to answer AMA questions, provide
advice or information, and settle disputes or present awards.
In 2005 we sponsored our first AMA District I Fun-Fly &
Airshow. These events feature all categories of flying. For 2007 we
sponsored four events in different geographical areas to bring more
clubs and members together for what it’s all about; friendship, flying
and fun.
On a National level I represent your interests with the AMA and
ensure the future of our sport. I have served on numerous
committees and currently chair the Bylaws committee. I am also the
AMA liaison officer for the largest SIG; the IMAA.
It is a privilege and honor to serve as the AMA District I Vice
President. I hope you are pleased with the results and ask for your
continued support.
District V Vice President
Tony Stillman (Incumbent)
Brunswick, Georgia
I want to be re-elected as your District 5 Vice-President. I began
this work three years ago when I was first elected as your VP. The
task that I began is not complete. I have made major changes within
District 5 over the last 3 years and am convinced that I can continue
to improve AMA operations, AMA to member relationships, and
increase services to the membership.
I am fully qualified, and an active modeler. I started modeling at
the age of eight, moving through control line and into R/C by
fourteen. I still fly many different types of models from free-flight to
Giant Scale R/C. Modeling is in my blood.
I have created a working staff of Associate VP’s who have taken
on the task of contacting clubs within their area. Along with these
VP’s, I have visited clubs and events and made myself available to
help the District membership.
District 5 now has a working website (www.amadistrict-v.org)
where you can get information, as well as a District Safety
Coordinator (Red Schofield) who is a columnist for Model Aviation
magazine and also serves on the AMA Electronic Technology
Committee. You can find E-mail addresses as well as phone numbers
for me and all the District staff. You can contact me or any staff
member most any time to answer any questions you might have.
This year, I will host four District Jamborees across the District 5
area to help give back to the membership.
October 2007 171
What does the future hold? We have seen tremendous changes
over the last few years. Electric flight is now a major part of
aeromodeling. AMA must address these changes and help create an
environment that traditional as well as new facets of modeling can
flourish. With an new AMA President to be elected this year, the
next three years may see many changes.
I don’t take the job lightly. I would appreciate your support to
help me to continue the work that I started 3 years ago.
District IX Vice President
Mark T. Smith (Incumbent)
Shawnee, Kansas
I would like to serve District IX as your VP for another term. The
past three years have been extremely busy and rewarding. I reviewed
my 2004 campaign statement and pleased to report that each of these
promises have been met or exceeded which include establishing a
District IX web site, holding a Lawrence, KS District fly-in, and
traveling to all six states to meet with modelers to encourage
continued open communications. Clearly, these accomplishments are
due in large part to an extraordinary team of Associate Vice
Presidents and other volunteers we’ve assembled over the last three
years. These folks represent AMA for each of the District IX States
as my “eyes and ears” and have done an outstanding job! I also must
confess that I have been so pleased with the warm, friendly welcome
I have enjoyed when visiting modelers around the District.
Areas I would like to continue to work on over the next three
years include:
• Stimulate the growth of our Association by implementing
various creative marketing programs
• Grow the number of Leader Clubs in our District
• Grow and aid in securing flying sites for our clubs
• Support the introduction and education of model aviation to our
youth
• Push for a maximum of three terms in office for Executive
Council members so that new, fresh and creative ideas can be
implemented which results in ensuring the longevity of a
healthy AMA
I would like to continue this modeling journey and with your
support, I believe we can accomplish even more in the next three
years. Thank you!
AMA Executive Council
Meeting Motions/Acclamations
August 12, 2007
Muncie, Indiana
The motions are part of the unofficial minutes of the meeting. Minutes from a given meeting are not official until they are approved at the
next quarterly Council meeting. Questions or comments concerning the motions should be addressed to your district vice president.
Motion I: Moved by C. Bauer (VI), and seconded by B.
Brown (III) to approve all of the items in the Consent
Agenda.
Motion passed unanimously.
Motion II: Moved by M. Smith (IX), and seconded by B.
Teague (IV) to approve Headquarters staff move forward and
develop a 3-5 year strategic plan; this is the next step in the
previously introduced 20-year plan.
Motion passed: 11-Y; 2-N (III, VI)
Motion III: Moved by C. Bauer (VI), and seconded by D.
Holland (EVP) to accept the Nominating Committee’s report.
Nominees on the ballot will be as follows: District I, Andy
Argenio, incumbent; District V, Tony Stillman, incumbent;
District IX, Mark T. Smith, incumbent; President: Rich
Hanson, Dave Mathewson, and Bill Oberdieck.
Motion passed unanimously.
Motion IV: Moved by M. Smith (IX), and seconded by T.
Stillman (V) to accept the Safety Committee’s revised Safety
Regulations for Model Aircraft Powered by Gas Turbines
document as amended.
Motion passed unanimously.
Amendment: For continuity, on page 4 of 5, item number 23)
change the first sentence of paragraph 5 to read: “The turbine
waiver holder who has had his waiver permanently suspended
may appeal the suspension within thirty (30) days of receipt
of the suspension.”
Motion V: Moved by R. Hanson (X), and seconded by B.
Teague (IV) that two additional recipients be added to the
Charles H. Grant Scholarship winners, to expend the funds of
the scholarship award.
Motion passed unanimously.
Motion VI: Moved by T. Stillman (V), and seconded by B.
Brown (III) that AMA host the 2008 XFC (Extreme Flight
Championships) and provide funding of $10,000, contingent
upon negotiations with the XFC Committee and AMA
Headquarters staff.
Motion passed unanimously.
Motion VII: Moved by R. Hanson (X), and seconded by B.
Teague (IV) to accept the new Air Show Team Program
proposal as amended by the Executive Council, and allow the
program to run through 2008 with approved funding of
$15,280. The program will be re-evaluated by Council at the
end of 2008. Funding is contingent upon the Air Show Team
committee accepting the amendment.
Motion passed: 9-Y; 4-N (III, V, IX, XI)
Amendment: Under Management Structure, change
appointed by the Executive Council to read: “approved by
Executive Council.”
Motion VIII: Moved by C. Bauer (VI), and seconded by A.
Argenio (I) that the bylaws revision be turned over to AMA’s
legal counsel for review.
Motion passed unanimously.
Motion IX: Moved by C. Bauer (VI), and seconded by M.
Smith (IX) that the 2009 Nats will be run in two-week
segments spread over eight weeks during the summer of
2009; no NATS events will be run on Mondays.
Motion passed unanimously.
Awards:
Distinguished Service awards (3) were approved unanimously
by consensus.
A Fellow Award (1) was voted separately and approved
unanimously by consensus.