District II 2014/01
Eric Williams Vice President [email protected] 4242 Amanda Ln., Schenectady, NY 12303 Tel.: (518) 356-2057 Website: www.amadistrict-ii.org
The latest technology has always been a part of our hobby. In the competition scene, the newest radio systems and the lightest, most cost-effective, and strongest aircraft are used. Even modelers in genres such as FF (Free Flight) and CL (Control Line) have adopted new methods, materials, and techniques.
AMA President Bob Brown appeared in a YouTube video discussing advanced-technology aircraft and embracing this new community of modelers. This video can be viewed at www.amadistrict-ii.org.
I occasionally hear of clubs that don’t allow FPV or autopilot flight systems without understanding AMA’s rules 550 and 560 covering these categories. These standards were set to support new technologies within AMA’s Safety Code. Club officers should acquaint themselves with the 550 and 560 rules as new modelers join our ranks. If there is to be a bright future for our hobby, we must embrace new technology while maintaining the excellence of our other flight categories.
Aeroguidance Society and the Spirit of Selinsgrove Reunion
The Aeroguidance Society of Endicott, New York, is one of District II’s most active clubs in promoting, hosting, and sanctioning events. Aeroguidance Society secretary, well-known competitor and AMA Model Aviation Hall of Fame member Bob Noll, sent the following about a great event with historical roots.
Labor Day weekend has been important to the Vintage R/C Society (VRCS) for the past 24 years. The Aeroguidance Society has served as the host club for the Spirit of Selinsgrove Reunion for many years and hosted the 24th running of this annual event on August 31 and September 1, 2013. This VRCS event got its name from the original Labor Day gathering that took place at the Selinsgrove, Pennsylvania, airport in 1989.
Eligible VRCS airplanes are those that were designed for RC at least 35 years prior to January 1 of the current year. Visit the society’s website at www.vintagercsociety.org for information about the organization and photos of many vintage aircraft.
Indoor events and swap meets
Colder weather means it’s time for indoor events. I had a great time attending the Sky Rovers R/C Flying Club’s swap meet and auction on October 26, 2013, in Phelps, New York, with AMA Executive Vice President Gary Fitch.
Many familiar faces were in the crowd and many aircraft went home with new owners. These events are not only about raising funds; they provide a nice venue for clubs and modelers to come together.
Club building suggestion
- At your next flying or non-flying event, use inexpensive self-stick nametags for all attendees. It helps break the ice and makes people feel more comfortable.
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.
