District IX Report - 2009/07
The Weak Signals
R/C Expo in Toledo, Ohio, was a huge success again this year. This event is the "big daddy," and if you have not been there before, make sure you mark it on your calendar for next year. The show offers great displays, flying demonstrations, tasty food, and multitudes of vendors showing off the latest in RC airplanes and equipment—making it a must-see event.
Jefco Aeromod'lers Auction
Jefco Aeromod'lers, one of the largest clubs in the Denver area, holds a premier event every February. It is a two-day auction that is one of the largest of its kind in the country. Thousands of items are up for bid and the turnout is always spectacular. Jefco strives for continuous improvement in conducting this event, and it shows. The rapid-fire auctioneers keep the audience enthused and the atmosphere is constantly lively, to say the least.
Steve Mangles, the frequency coordinator for District IX, runs the show and has had great success in promoting volunteerism. If there are problems behind the scenes, they don't show. Attendees flock from a wide area. This year the attendee who had to travel the greatest distance was Wichai Laksanakorn from Thailand. He has attended the auction for the last 10 years. Wichai admits that although the auction is an annual highlight for him, he has problems getting his purchases back home. This fundraiser for Jefco Aeromod'lers is a model of professionalism and all who help put it together are to be congratulated.
Now that the flying season is in full swing, be sure to wear sunscreen to protect your skin.
Club Corner
Make a conscious effort to create a comfortable atmosphere at your club meetings. Small touches can make a big difference.
- Provide coffee and snacks before the meeting to encourage mingling.
- Ensure everyone can hear: encourage speakers to speak up or invest in a simple PA system.
- Welcome visitors: ask how they learned about the club, invite them to the flying field, and offer a free ride on a buddy box.
- Include members in decisions: take straw votes on potential issues so members feel involved.
- Offer a swap table—it's always a hit.
Ideas go on and on. Let me know what your club does and we can share some thoughts.
Transcribed from original scans by AI. Minor OCR errors may remain.
