District II—New Jersey, New York, Europe
Eric Williams, Vice President
Joint Base McGuire‑Dix‑Lakehurst in New Jersey was the site of the base's open house and air show on May 10–11, 2014. I was fortunate to be there with members of the New Jersey Pine Barons Radio Control Club, who were asked to perform in front of roughly 250,000 spectators.
The club offered:
- Two performances each day.
- Static display areas with 20+ aircraft.
- 10 simulators beneath six tents.
Because of post‑9/11 security protocols and the complexities of managing 250,000 spectators, the Pine Barons club was almost not in the show. However, through excellent communication and planning with show management, the club's involvement went off without a hitch.
Steve Schwartz, Pine Barons president, credits Pine Barons member Air Force Staff Sgt. Benjamin Stzrzyk with the legwork and the club/military relationship. Ben put in many hours of effort, and we thank him for his service to the club and to our military.
Plattsburgh Radio Aeromodelers (PRAM) — Hospice Fun‑Fly
The Plattsburgh Radio Aeromodelers (PRAM) is a diversified club. On June 7, 2014, it was my privilege to visit the club's annual Hospice Fun‑Fly. As the recipients of a 2014 AMA Flying Site Assistance Grant, the club is continually making improvements at its Memorial Field.
Notable improvements include:
- A relocated drive that creates more distance between vehicles and the runway, improving safety.
- A 12‑volt solar energy collection system providing ready power for modelers, a public‑address system, and other needs.
- A widened pit area, increasing the space between spectators and pilots.
- Establishment and improvement of an outdoor RC car track, exposing a new audience to the hobby.
Although the club owns the flying site and is well established, the members have not rested on their laurels. They recognize the importance of community involvement and of working to improve their flying site. Making field improvements, holding community charity events, and being a vibrant community organization helps keep a club strong, attracts new members, and encourages community support. Thanks to the PRAM club for doing this well.
Remember, it's not about what we fly; it's about the people and the friends we make!
Transcribed from original scans by AI. Minor OCR errors may remain.
