AMA News: District VIII

Jim Rice and his Dream Machine. Photo by new District VIII Vice President Mark Johnston.As most know, Randy Brown withdrew from the election for District VIII vice president (VP) because of business concerns and recovery from Hurricane Sandy. He and Mark Johnston, who was elected to the position, were my personal selections. Everyone who asked me who I supported in the election got the same answer, “You wouldn’t expect me to pick a favorite among my children and I am not going to pick between my loyal supporters in the District VIII mission.” Either could have been a tremendous VP, so a vote for either was the right choice. Upon submitting his resignation Randy said, “I hope the best for District VIII’s new VP and newly appointed associate vice presidents (AVPs) and Safety Coordinator. I hope that someday in the future will be a better time for me to help and volunteer [for] such a great organization.” Well said, and I hope that he does rejoin the volunteer effort in District VIII and help Mark grow it to bigger and better things.Mark Johnston and I discussed his running for the office at least four years ago. When I retired, I wanted quality, trained volunteers ready to accept the nomination and carry on. He acknowledged that he was motivated to do so and our dialogue has continued over time. I am delighted that he accepted the challenge and has been elected to the position. Please give him the same support you provided me.I wrote this in November, and I asked Mark to finish the column as the new VP, although he doesn’t assume the duties until the first of the year. With that, I must say adios; I was humbled by the nomination, awed by the mission, stunned by the welcome at every turn, and proud of the quality of work and effort by your volunteer staff. I say again for the last time, the only paycheck a volunteer ever receives is a firm handshake with a look in the eye and a sincere thank-you. Thanks to all who have been there for me and the Academy! Have fun and fly safely!—JimMark Johnston and his Ohio State airplane.Thanks to Jim Rice for his six years of service to AMA as our district vice president. He has been an outstanding VP and has represented us well. I have asked him to serve the district as an AVP for safety as we move forward. I am also looking for an AVP for the Dallas /Fort Worth Area.Big thanks to Randy Brown for his hard work! I was sorry to see him step down; he would have done a great job as VP. We should all be prepared to support those in need whether from a natural disaster or some other circumstance. I wish Randy the best as he tries to get his hurricane-stricken areas back to normal and I hope he finishes quickly so he can rejoin our great volunteer group in District VIII.One of our District VIII members, Pete McIntosh of the Alvin R/C Model Airplane Association, is a recipient of the Carl and Beth Goldberg Vital People Award. It was presented to Pete on November 17 by Randy Brown and Benny Behrens who nominated him.Pete McIntosh (C) receives his Vital People Award from Benny Behrens (L) and Randy Brown (R).On October 28, the Gary Harvey Memorial Fun-Fly was held in McKinney, Texas, by the Richardson R/C Club. Allen Delger CDed the event and had a great list of sponsors in support of wounded warriors.Hope to see you all at the field! —Mark