AMA News: District VII-2011/12

THIS HAS BEEN an interesting year.
There has been much concern about the
FAA and AMA, and where the
aeromodeling hobby is headed. How many
times have you read in this column about
getting involved in finding ways to promote
our hobby?
Before the AMA and the Experimental
Aircraft Association (EAA) signed a
Memorandum of Understanding, the Radio
Control Club of Detroit (RCCD) got the ball
rolling to do just that roughly three years
ago. Actually, it all started by accident
through a casual conversation. Why not get
together with a full-scale group? So, contact
was made with local EAA Chapter 13 and
Noel Hunt of RCCD.
A plan was formed for EAA officials to
learn RC flying and for the modelers to fly
in an EAA full-scale, home-built or factorymade
airplane. August 27, 2011, marked the
third year the event was held at David’s
Landing—a privately owned airstrip. Local
full-scale airplane pilots came to enjoy the
camaraderie, a luncheon, and perfect
weather.
It was one heck of a way to promote our
hobby and the EAA. What’s keeping the rest
of you club members from getting involved?
Some lucky kid won this pedal plane.
Lunch for all of the pilots.
RCCD club members and airplanes.
This Aeronca Champ was used to give RCCD
members rides.
One of my favorite fly-ins in the fall is the
Pilgrims Phall Phaze Out. I was able to
attend this year. The Pilgrim event always
draws plenty of pilots from the area and they
put on a good show for the spectators. And
of course, the tasty food, prizes, and raffles
all result in a good time.
Glenn McIntosh with his Scale Cessna 195.
A great-looking DC-3 on the approach.
Vince Blasky’s Big Cub.
Keith “Electric Guru” Shaw’s fleet.
By the time you read this, the AMA
elections will be over. As I write this, the
actual election has only begun so who
knows what the outcome will be, but I was
honored to be nominated for both executive
vice president and as the District VII vice
president. I hope everyone took the
opportunity to support the AMA and vote.
It’s time to look forward to another
season. With that said, I want to wish
everyone a Merry Christmas and a healthy,
happy New Year.
See you at the field. C.A.V.U.