District XI - 2006/02
A year and a half ago I mentioned in this column how a group of modelers in North Idaho had, in a joint effort, put together an airplane, radio, and engine for three young people. The Coeur d'Alene Aeromodelers, the Farragut Flyers, and the Post Falls Flyers made a dream come true for these youngsters.
At a recent gathering, I had the pleasure of presenting the Academy's Award of Excellence to two of those clubs. Loren Hall (Coeur d'Alene Aeromodelers) and Bruce Cochrane (Farragut Flyers) accepted the awards on behalf of their respective clubs.
In addition to their earlier generosity, these three clubs provided much more assistance to the family. One youngster was suffering from an incurable respiratory problem, and club members raised funds to buy expensive medical equipment and cover other related expenses.
They also assisted the family when it became necessary for them to relocate for the child's well-being. Members helped make the family vehicle, which was in need of repair, ready for the long trip.
My family has always considered our modeler friends as family, and we have "family" all across the country. I'm sure many of you feel the same way. Acts of kindness like this are a good example of why we are a big family.
My hat's off to this group of fliers and friends — I am proud to call you friends.
Happy trails!
Transcribed from original scans by AI. Minor OCR errors may remain.
