District VII
Bill Oberdieck, District VII Vice President
I have often suggested to clubs that they consider getting involved in their community. The reason is to let the public know the clubs exist and are a part of the community. This can be helpful if a field site ever comes into question.
The following is one example of what can be done with a little cooperation. It started as an idea on how to get recognized in the community and to spread the word about our hobby/sport.
Ken DeBoer and Chet Merwin, along with others, decided what and how to get started. The event was organized to promote the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life in Portage Lake, Michigan.
Other clubs were invited to participate; four accepted:
- Hedgehoppers RC Flying Club
- Three Rivers Aerobatic Aces
- Thunderbirds R/C Club
- Schoolcraft Skyhawks
Also involved were:
- the local hobby shop, Hobby-Sports
- Walmart, which volunteered outside space for setups (store manager William Lancaster coordinated the arrangements)
Great job by all the folks involved in getting the idea off the ground. From what I saw while present and from the comments I heard, it appears the future looks very promising for expanding the event throughout the area.
Photo credits: Chet Merwin, Luis Espinel, and Martin Ridner.
Joe Nall / AMA Eastern General Membership Meeting
Again this year I attended the Joe Nall at Triple Tree Aerodrome in Woodruff, South Carolina, for what is now considered the AMA Eastern General Membership meeting. To anyone who calls themselves a modeler, the Joe Nall is a must-see event.
Everything from foamies to Giant Scale, and everything in between, was flying—either from dry land or on floats.
The Indianapolis 500 is called the Greatest Spectacle in Racing. Taking author’s license, I call the Joe Nall the Greatest Spectacle in Aeromodeling.
This year was made even more special by the presentation of a plaque from the AMA to Pat Hartness, on whose property the event is held. Dave Mathewson, AMA’s executive director, presented the plaque and recognized the site as an International Aeromodeling Center.
Two FAA members also attended the membership meeting to answer general questions.
Hope everyone is having a great, safe flying season, and remember to get a youngster involved — it’s your legacy to the future.
Have fun and fly safely. Get involved.
C.A.V.U.
Transcribed from original scans by AI. Minor OCR errors may remain.
