Thanks for all the kind words of encouragement as I step into my new role as District XI vice president. One note in particular touched me. This came from John Castleman who claims full responsibility for my interest in model aircraft.
I was 10 years old when I started my love of modeling. John quickly became an important mentor in my life and still holds a special place in my heart. After 55 years, I still recall the fun times we had flying our models. Thanks to John and all of the others who have inspired me.
It is at the core of our hobby to share the knowledge of how it’s done. Today, one of the best places to find mentors is in our clubs. You will find them in plane sight.
I recently attended a Society of Antique Modelers (SAM) Chapter 8 club meeting, where I found them preparing for another day with the Fin Hill Middle School. It’s now an annual build-and-fly event with the students and some of their parents.
The average age of the club members may be golden, but there is no better way to bring out the youth in them than spending time with the students. These club members define the term mentor!
The students start with a glider or AMA Cub during the first time with the club. They work on covering built-up projects in their second year. After building, the fun continues with flying.
As is generally the case with most first-time flights, the voyage did not go as planned. This is where the mentor gets a chance to show his or her stuff. A little tweak here and there to trim the airplane and wow, it really flies well! The mentor’s rewards are the looks on the students’ faces.
I’m glad to report that Mike Mosbrooker is doing well with his recovery from his surgery, and has been seen at the flying field after his rehabilitation classes at the nearby hospital. It’s hard to hold a good guy down for long!
Be a mentor to someone.
