“Learning is finding out what you already know. Doing is demonstrating that you know it. Teaching is reminding others that they know just as well as you. You are all learners, doers, and teachers.”
—from Richard Bach’s Illusions
The holidays, as I am writing this, are a time that reminds me of the importance of giving. This month I have a story of a true giver who is supporting one of the best things we do—Camp AMA!
Every year, we’ve enjoyed an amazing growth in both attendance and quality of students attending our camp. We have kids attend from across the US, from all demographics, and unique backgrounds in model aviation.
What they share is a desire to fly—and fly a lot! They attend to be around and learn from the best. Andrew Jesky, Nick Maxwell, and RJ Gritter are not only some of the best model fliers, they’re the best role models. They model work ethic, behavior, respect, and basically how to be a lady or gentleman to all with whom they have the pleasure of spending this week.
When they fly demonstrations for the kids, they’re able to stand three feet away from them, and it’s amazing to see the look of wonder and fascination on their faces. And then it hits them—“better get busy so I can learn to do that!” And, many of them do.
Camp AMA has become so popular that we will spend 2015 doing research and development on Camp AMA West. Camp AMA West will have a twist—it’s for big kids! Only those 19 and older may attend. Think about the great time you’ll have flying all day and making your significant other happy in beautiful Las Vegas!
Mike Winklepeck owns 3DRC Hobbies and has been a great supporter of Camp AMA. He has a wonderful story and a great approach to allow each and every modeler to support a kid attending camp. Please give it a read. Who knows, you might have to come to Camp AMA to demonstrate your cool new Yak!
Fly and Have Fun!
3DRCForums Camp AMA Benefit sprang to life this past month—it’s been a year’s worth of work and planning. I am a huge proponent of great camps, as I was one of those yearly campers counting down the days until camp started. The fun I had as a camper turned into a summer job as a lead counselor and then a year later as an activities director for the same camp.
I quickly realized that a great camp is the product of hard work and a lot of planning. Camp AMA is a prime example of one of those great camps that works hard to put on a great camp every year and no doubt has helped shape the minds and hearts of young RC aviators!
The big question was how can we help Camp AMA? A couple weeks passed and then I read about several AMA districts offering sponsorships to help campers financially be able to attend. That’s when my normally dimly light bulb went full bright with an “ah ha” moment!
The idea of running a campaign to help those who couldn’t normally attend was exciting. Then we expanded the idea to include a prize to one lucky financial donor. As we were considering what that prize would be, we thought big! I picked up the phone and spoke to my buddy, Kole, at Limitless Aero and said, “Would you be interested in giving back to the community and help support Camp AMA?”
His response was, “Of course. How can I help?” I sheepishly said, “Give me one of those MVVS 116NO engines.” His response was simply, “No problem. When do you need it?” and that’s when I knew we had something!
My conversation with Rocco at Aeroworks went virtually the same way and before I knew it a 35% Yak 55M was sitting at my front door with a FedEx guy asking for my signature! Azhar at Aztech Aeromodels called me and said, “Get a shopping list together and I will send everything you want!”
I am so impressed with all of these manufacturers’ and vendors’ overwhelming desire to get involved. I have been affected by their generosity in a world that seems to be lacking such qualities. Donors and donations include:
Aeroworks, Aeroworks 100cc Yak-55m
Limitless Aero, MVVS 116NP
Hitec RCD USA, servos, radio, and receiver
Aztech Aeromodels, switches, tanks, wheels, and Bling Baby Bling flywheels!
Fromeco, batteries
Knife Edge Graphix, Custom Graphics Package
How can you get involved and help a child attend camp AMA this year? Go to 3DRCForums.com, make your donation, and get your chance to win this beautiful RTF Aeroworks Yak-55M! The drawing will take place at the Joe Nall event.[dingbat]
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