AMA News District IX - 2007/10
Hi folks! I want to begin this month by informing you of a change in associate vice presidents (AVPs) in South Dakota. Max Hansen has been a longtime supporter of AMA, serving as our AVP for the area, and I appreciate his dedication. I am pleased to introduce our new AVP, Jim Tiller, who provided the following to help you get to know him better.
Meet Jim Tiller
"I was born and raised in South Dakota, graduating from Custer High School in 1965 and going on to a bachelor's degree in biological science from the University of Wyoming in 1970. I taught high school and community college for 17 years.
"In 1986, I took a job in the software industry supporting software used by waste haulers, and I continue in that arena today as an independent contractor. Currently, my wife Judi and I are a family with four children and seven grandchildren.
"I have had an interest in airplanes as long as I can remember. I began building plastic models and the old Comet free-flight airplanes at a young age. I have been a member of AMA since 1978, belonging to clubs in Iowa, Arizona, Colorado, Washington, and South Dakota.
"As a teacher, I promoted modeling and rocketry with my students, including classroom activities, demonstrations, and summer build-and-fly workshops. In the mid-1980s I was chosen as a NEWMAST teacher: a joint National Science Foundation/NASA venture to promote space-based activities in education. This was an offshoot of the teacher-in-space program.
"I received training at the NASA facility in Huntsville, Alabama, and was fortunate enough to attend a shuttle launch with other teachers, including Christa McAuliffe. For the next few years I did presentations at schools and clubs throughout southwest Iowa.
"In 1978, my brother Don let me fly his Sig Kadet for a few minutes and I was instantly hooked on RC flying. From this beginning, I continue to enjoy kit bashing, building from plans, and scratch-building.
"For the last 11 years, I have been a member of the Rapid City Propbusters R/C Club as club newsletter editor and webmaster. I continue to build and fly at every opportunity and consider myself a safe and competent pilot, but I still have much to learn and appreciate any opportunity to do so. Fortunately, the fliers in my area are generous with their time and expertise. I look forward to representing the South Dakota modelers."
Wyoming visit and Gold Leader Club award
As promised to our Wyoming AVP Fred Hildebrand, I visited his great state to meet him and as many modelers as possible and to congratulate Fred's club, the Casper Air Modelers, for earning the Gold Level Leader Club award for 2006. I presented the Gold Leader Club award to the Casper Air Modelers.
Coincidentally, the Riverton, Wyoming, club, about two hours west of Casper, had scheduled its annual fly-in. I was able to make the award presentation at the Riverton event, which was also attended by members of the Casper club.
The Riverton Club is in a league all its own because the members understand the importance of community involvement and how to work with state and local officials to procure a first-rate modeling facility. The complex is located on the outskirts of town and encompasses a first-class paved runway and two RC car tracks. The Riverton club embraces the concept of strengthening its presence in the community by making modeling attractive to all facets of this great hobby.
I was impressed to learn about and review the club's strategic five-year plan — real food for thought for all clubs. I spoke with one of the Riverton City Council members, who told me that seeing the facility being used by the community is a win-win for all. This working relationship with state and local officials was underscored by president Eddie Amend asking the State Senator to attend the awards presentation. I challenged the Riverton Club to attain the status of Gold Leader Club, and if they accomplish it, I will travel back to Wyoming to make the presentation myself.
That's it for this month. Next month I'll report on our great trips to a couple of Wichita, Kansas, events. Until then, have fun and keep in touch!
Mark
Transcribed from original scans by AI. Minor OCR errors may remain.
