Expo - 2011/04

22 MODEL AVIATION
Expo by Michael Ramsey
Left: Carl Rankin builds all of
his models from materials and
equipment that is given to him.
He has on-hand free-flight
prizes for kids made from
drinking straws and cellophane.
Yes, they fly!
Sunny California
during the first weekend
of the new year—
January 7-9 in 2011—is
the perfect place to get
the AMA’s 75th
anniversary celebration
cooking. The AMA Expo
is like a circus, of sorts; it
has lots of sights to see,
and the entertainment is
bountiful.
04sig1_00MSTRPG.QXD 3/1/11 12:32 PM Page 22
April 2011 23
Photos by the author
The Civil Air Patrol and Navy
Seal Cadets presented the
colors each day of the Expo.
Their attendance was inspiring.
All together at
the AMA Expo
RC flight simulators
were set up throughout
the show floor. Kids—
and many moms and
dads—were always
waiting in line to get a
turn.
04sig1_00MSTRPG.QXD 2/22/11 1:05 PM Page 23
24 MODEL AVIATION
“Commodore” Dave Gee kicked off the US
Centennial of Naval Aviation celebration by reenacting
the first flight from a carrier with a
scratch-built, rubber-powered model of the
Curtiss design.
Katie Bosman (R) and Deidra Gee helped build hundreds of rubber-powered
models that were free to kids who attended the Expo.
Brad Osborne (San Pedro CA) won Civilian Scale (Non-Jet) in the Static Model
Competition with his scratch-built Meyer Little Toot. It’s 37% scale and powered with a
Zenoah GT-80 engine.
Gorilla Glue sponsored both the airplane and
rocket make-and-take areas.
Vendors displayed an enormous number of EPO molded-foam models of both
propeller and jet scale aircraft, in a variety of sizes.
Rotor F/X sells a
number of ultralight
helicopter kits.
Constructing this
Mosquito is identical
to building a
model—only you get
to climb in and work
the controls from
the inside.
04sig1_00MSTRPG.QXD 2/22/11 1:12 PM Page 24
Jeff Tolomeo and his daughter,
Ashley explain some of the scale
features on his F/A-18 Super Hornet
to Captain Tom Huff—an AMA
member and naval aviator.
Joe Bock of Aero Telemetry displayed a number of active projects in his
collection, including a 1/2-scale H-1, a giant-scale C-130, and a working
Lockheed Constellation engine.
Centered on the Expo floor was the AMA Village, with
the RC simulator on the south end (shown) and the
National Model Aviation Museum store on the north.
C h a d Bu d reau ( L ), A M A ’s
M u l t i m e di a Pu b l i cati on staff
mem b e r, gets t h e fac t s fr o m
B r ad La n g, a Commemora ti ve
Ai r Force Must ang pilot, a bout
the ae rodynamics of FF and the
Red Tail Project.
Expo
April 2011 25
airplane and
Donald Butman (Woodland Hills CA) won
the Static Model Competition Aerobatic
class with his Mini-Oriental powered by a
Norvel engine.
04sig1_00MSTRPG.QXD 3/1/11 10:30 AM Page 25
26 MODEL AVIATION
Lawrence Klingberg’s latest Static Model Competition
dominator was this scratch-built Sikorsky S-29, which he
modeled after the aircraft Howard Hughes owned that was
featured in the movie Hell’s Angels.
Matt Stringer demonstrated models from DWFoamies, all of which
are powered with Hacker brushless motors. This 55-inch-span Juka is
part of the company’s outdoor product line.
Arlo Watkins (Chandler AZ) won the Scale Military class in
the Static Model Competition with his finely detailed Sikorsky
MH-53 Pave Low helicopter.
A special thanks to the Black Sheep Squadron for running the
education resource area of the Expo. A number of displays featured
models built on-site during the show.
Guest speakers such as Aero Telemetry founder Joe Bock gave lectures
throughout the weekend about how aeromodeling inspired their careers in
aviation.
Several vendors at the Expo allowed guests to try
RC ground vehicles, such as this rock crawler.
04sig1_00MSTRPG.QXD 2/22/11 1:35 PM Page 26
April 2011 27
Aircraft
Sport
1. Jim Levell, Sportster
2. Donald Butman, Pou Du Ciel
3. Richard Cline, Maverick
Aerobatic
1. Donald Butman, Mini-Oriental
Glider/Sailplane (Non-Electric)
1. Carl Maas, Republic F-84 Thunderjet
2. Mark Eddingfield, Slingsby T.G. Kirby
Kite
3. Brian Laird, Bao Attitude
Scale, Military (Non-Jet)
1. Michael Valdez, Hawker Typhoon
2. Spani Wayne, Mk 9E Spitfire
3. Lawrence Klingberg, Sopwith Pup on
Floats
Scale, Civilian (Non-Jet)
1. Brad Osborne, Meyer Little Toot
2. Lawrence Klingberg, Sikorsky S-29 Twin
3. Tim Albright, Taube—German Air Mail
Sport, Jet
1. Bob Reynolds, F-15 Regal Eagle
2. Bob Reynolds, Falcon 21
Scale, Jet
1. Chris Wolfe, Mirage III RS
2. Anthony Kameen, Heinkel 178 V-1
Boat
Scale
1. Kay Tillman, Crowley 22
2. Richard Macy, Orca
3. J.D. Bitters, USS Stacy
Military
1. Nathan Bitters, USS Rentz
2. J.D. Bitters, PCE
3. Richard Macy, 21st Century Destroyer
Pleasure
1. Kay Tillman, Aphrodite
2. Kay Tillman, Apache II
3. Richard Macy, 1940 Runabout
Car
Electric—On Road
1. Angela Grodell
2. Charles Barnes, Ultra GTI2E
3. Angela Grodell, HB Cyclone
Gas/Glow—On Road
1. Charles Barnes, HPI Nitro RSH
Flying Model Rocket
Sport
1. Anthony Probst, Courier Egg Lofter
2. Ross Iwamoto, Laser-X
3. Robert Vasquez Jr., Courier
Scale
1. Ross Iwamoto, Gemini—Titan II
2. Robert Vasquez Jr., Quest Navaho
AGM
Helicopter
Sport
1. Rozina Ahamed, T-Rex 700 Electric
2. J.D. Bitters, Hughes 500E
3. Carl Maas, Raptor X50
Scale
1. Arlo Watkins, MH-53 Pave Low
2. Jeff Tolomeo, Airstar Hughes 500
3. J.D. Bitters, Bell 212
• There was a total of 59 Static Model
Competition entries.
• Cash awards totaled $1,080.
• Each first place received a $50 cash
award and a plaque.
• Each second place received a $20 cash
award and a plaque.
• Each third place received a plaque.
• The California Associated Modelers
RC Club coordinated the Static Model
Competition. MA
Expo
Static Winners
That’s right. It’s a show. We no longer
call it a “Convention” or “trade event.” And
the effort to put on a “show” was more
apparent for the 2011 gala, thanks to
exhibitors large and small, local club
volunteers, and AMA SIGs that came out to
support the West Coast communities.
The Expo got special treatment this year,
including carpeting throughout the exhibitor
space. Following is what Ben Flesher, an
AMA staff member, had to say about the
addition.
“The Ontario Convention Center went
above and beyond for us this year.
“Every year we plan for the show, we
always look at the floorplan as if anything is
possible. A lot of ideas flood the planning
meetings, because the Ontario Convention
Center is always so accommodating. So the
carpeting added a touch of class and made
vendors a lot more comfortable.”
International Radio Controlled Helicopter
Association (IRCHA) President David
Millner convinced his group that the AMA’s
75th anniversary special Expo celebration
would be an opportunity to highlight how the
AMA SIG positively affects the growth of the
sport. As this group does at the extremely
popular seminars held during the
organization’s Jamborees, held in Muncie,
Indiana, in the summer, it took over the
northwest corner of the main hall and penciled
in experts for 30-minute discussions.
“What we thought would be a challenge to
fill, turned out to be a hot segment of the
entire weekend,” Dave said, giddy with pride.
“The presentations and how-to seminars were
standing-room only, and the average segment
ran almost two hours because audience
participation was so active.”
AMA Expo management has rewritten the
book on conventionlike events. AMA
Marketing Director Jeff Nance explained:
“The AMA Headquarters Marketing
Department pays a huge amount of attention
to organizing and executing the AMA Expo.
We love to entertain and promote the sport.
“Everything we do represents a single
goal: to help young and old appreciate how
valuable and fun aeromodeling can be, no
matter where in the world you do it.”
To mark the 75th anniversary of the AMA,
guest speakers were selected to share stories
about how modeling kindled their
imagination. Because of aeromodeling, people
around the world have advanced into exciting
careers at the forefront of technology, which
involves aviation.
By the way, the AMA is collecting stories
similar to those presented at the Expo. To tell
yours, visit the AMA’s 75th Anniversary Web
site and click on the big bubble window titled
“Share Your Story.”
Written accounts as well as videos are
requested. All AMA members are encouraged
to share even a few lines about their AMA
experience.
Five AMA members talked at the Expo
04sig1_00MSTRPG.QXD 3/1/11 10:36 AM Page 27
April 2011 29
about how their careers in aviation started with
the sport and science of aeromodeling. One of
those speakers, who also commemorated the
Centennial of Naval Aviation, was Captain
Tom Huff.
He walked us through the colorful history
of flying from the water. MA’s intrepid safety
columnist Dave Gee assisted with a reenactment,
in model form, of the first launch
from a carrier deck. Less a big splash, the
flight was entertaining.
Joe Bock is a famous model maker, with
Hollywood movie credits in The Aviator and
Flight of the Phoenix. He proved that using
giant-scale models instead of computergenerated
imagery is still superior (or at least
essential) for capturing the realistic drama of
flight.
Katie Bosman got her start in FF
modeling and earned her place as a National
Champion and AMA scholarship winner. She
currently works as a technical writer,
demonstration pilot, and sales manager for
Jabiru USA Sport Aircraft.
Also making presentations were guests
who understand how preserving history
ensures the noble future of aeromodeling.
Gary Fogel is credited with preserving the
Torrey Pines Gliderport in La Jolla,
California, which is shared by full-scale and
model soaring. How well those distinct
mediums of aviation work together is a proud
testament to how passionate aviators are and
their concern for safety.
No aircraft is more popular in aviation
history than the North American P-51
Mustang. The science and sociology attached
to that fighter are vast and significant. Few
understand those types of connections better
than people such as Brad Lang, who is the
son of a Tuskegee Airman and a
Commemorative Air Force pilot of the Red
Tail Project.
Those five AMA members set a mood of
pride and appreciation. AMA President Dave
Mathewson said:
“We love the modeling crowd here on the
West Coast. Their public activity in the sport
includes a significant ingredient that feeds the
AMA community positively.
“So many of these folks annually trek to
the Midwest and compete in Muncie at the
Nats. Putting on a show for them here is the
least we can do.”
The show of exhibitors and showpeople
offered a spontaneous flow of excitement. It
happens every year.
The indoor flight exhibitions connected
the still color of products and static displays
in the main hall. Audiences packed the indoor
flight area, and the main hall and swap shop
offered a strolling avenue where each pass
seemed to reveal something that was missed
on the previous trip through.
Carl Rankin is an amusing Expo regular;
you’ll see him with RC models made from
drinking straws and cellophane. To watch
his craft fly is similar to the feeling that
infected many with the passion for aviation
in the first place.
As are Carl’s previous designs, his new
triplane—the Jules Verne—is an example of
genius.
“I make all of my models from things
that people give to me,” he revealed.
Carl’s family collects the drinking
straws, and he also uses his abundant supply
to build FF models to give to grade-school
children.
“I love to share the wonder of flight with
others,” he said.
Going to an event offers a rush of
excitement, so it’s good to take a friend with
you to the AMA Expo. The more eyes, the
better.
I found AMA Education Director Bill
Pritchett picking glue off of his fingers after
spending the day in the make-and-take-andfly
area of the show. He said:
“It’s all good. What I love about shows
like the AMA Expo is how it brings so many
segments of the sport together under one
roof. What we’ve added is a celebration of
those that have moved on to careers in
aviation, thanks to the teachings they gained
having fun with model aircraft.”
New technology impresses us, and it is a
big reason why people make the trek to the
Expo. The exhibitors didn’t disappoint this
year, and there were some trends we can
expect to play out in the coming flying
season.
The presence of foam was significant; by
that I’m referring to molded-foam models.
Manufacturers are getting very good at
hiding the fact that these overpowered and
lightly loaded aircraft are made from tiny
beads. In some cases their surfaces are
almost as smooth as glass.
These foam airplanes use electric power,
and they keep getting bigger. Several
vendors had 60-inch, or longer, scale
warbirds and electric-ducted-fan-powered
models in every size that were constructed
from EPO foam material.
Not forgetting our roots, wood models
are extremely popular. And now they are
offered to consider current trends in power
systems. Gas engines are available in a
range of sizes that has not been seen since
the days of Ohlsson and Forster.
Even helicopter manufacturers are
exploring gas power for their popular small
machines. And the 30cc-class airplane
(formerly called the 120 class) could be the
“next big thing” for aerobatic pilots and
sport modelers.
The AMA Expo is all about bringing
modelers together. That mission has been a
part of the AMA mantra for 75 years and
counting. This weekend in particular kicked
off what will be the next 75 years of
aeromodeling excitement.
AMA Executive Vice President Mark
Smith was smiling all weekend, and he
explained why.
“It’s amazing how the exhibitors have
flocked to this show. The variety of offerings
impresses me, not just because of what’s for
sale or what the big manufacturers have
released here.
“Most of all it’s the area clubs and youth
aviation organizations like the Civil Air Patrol
and Navy Cadets that came with an
impressive brigade of recruits. It’s
inspirational.” MA
Michael Ramsey
[email protected]
AMA Expo Sponsors:
AMA 75th Anniversary
http://ama75.com
Gorilla Glue
(800) 966-3458
www.gorillaglue.com
Centennial of Naval Aviation
(619) 545-5939
http://bit.ly/95TyKO
Sources:
Expo videos:
www.amaexpo.com
Expo exhibitor list:
http://amaexpo.com/attractions/vendors
More Expo photos:
www.flickr.com/groups/1639234@N22
04sig1_00MSTRPG.QXD 2/22/11 1:43 PM Page 29

22 MODEL AVIATION
Expo by Michael Ramsey
Left: Carl Rankin builds all of
his models from materials and
equipment that is given to him.
He has on-hand free-flight
prizes for kids made from
drinking straws and cellophane.
Yes, they fly!
Sunny California
during the first weekend
of the new year—
January 7-9 in 2011—is
the perfect place to get
the AMA’s 75th
anniversary celebration
cooking. The AMA Expo
is like a circus, of sorts; it
has lots of sights to see,
and the entertainment is
bountiful.
04sig1_00MSTRPG.QXD 3/1/11 12:32 PM Page 22
April 2011 23
Photos by the author
The Civil Air Patrol and Navy
Seal Cadets presented the
colors each day of the Expo.
Their attendance was inspiring.
All together at
the AMA Expo
RC flight simulators
were set up throughout
the show floor. Kids—
and many moms and
dads—were always
waiting in line to get a
turn.
04sig1_00MSTRPG.QXD 2/22/11 1:05 PM Page 23
24 MODEL AVIATION
“Commodore” Dave Gee kicked off the US
Centennial of Naval Aviation celebration by reenacting
the first flight from a carrier with a
scratch-built, rubber-powered model of the
Curtiss design.
Katie Bosman (R) and Deidra Gee helped build hundreds of rubber-powered
models that were free to kids who attended the Expo.
Brad Osborne (San Pedro CA) won Civilian Scale (Non-Jet) in the Static Model
Competition with his scratch-built Meyer Little Toot. It’s 37% scale and powered with a
Zenoah GT-80 engine.
Gorilla Glue sponsored both the airplane and
rocket make-and-take areas.
Vendors displayed an enormous number of EPO molded-foam models of both
propeller and jet scale aircraft, in a variety of sizes.
Rotor F/X sells a
number of ultralight
helicopter kits.
Constructing this
Mosquito is identical
to building a
model—only you get
to climb in and work
the controls from
the inside.
04sig1_00MSTRPG.QXD 2/22/11 1:12 PM Page 24
Jeff Tolomeo and his daughter,
Ashley explain some of the scale
features on his F/A-18 Super Hornet
to Captain Tom Huff—an AMA
member and naval aviator.
Joe Bock of Aero Telemetry displayed a number of active projects in his
collection, including a 1/2-scale H-1, a giant-scale C-130, and a working
Lockheed Constellation engine.
Centered on the Expo floor was the AMA Village, with
the RC simulator on the south end (shown) and the
National Model Aviation Museum store on the north.
C h a d Bu d reau ( L ), A M A ’s
M u l t i m e di a Pu b l i cati on staff
mem b e r, gets t h e fac t s fr o m
B r ad La n g, a Commemora ti ve
Ai r Force Must ang pilot, a bout
the ae rodynamics of FF and the
Red Tail Project.
Expo
April 2011 25
airplane and
Donald Butman (Woodland Hills CA) won
the Static Model Competition Aerobatic
class with his Mini-Oriental powered by a
Norvel engine.
04sig1_00MSTRPG.QXD 3/1/11 10:30 AM Page 25
26 MODEL AVIATION
Lawrence Klingberg’s latest Static Model Competition
dominator was this scratch-built Sikorsky S-29, which he
modeled after the aircraft Howard Hughes owned that was
featured in the movie Hell’s Angels.
Matt Stringer demonstrated models from DWFoamies, all of which
are powered with Hacker brushless motors. This 55-inch-span Juka is
part of the company’s outdoor product line.
Arlo Watkins (Chandler AZ) won the Scale Military class in
the Static Model Competition with his finely detailed Sikorsky
MH-53 Pave Low helicopter.
A special thanks to the Black Sheep Squadron for running the
education resource area of the Expo. A number of displays featured
models built on-site during the show.
Guest speakers such as Aero Telemetry founder Joe Bock gave lectures
throughout the weekend about how aeromodeling inspired their careers in
aviation.
Several vendors at the Expo allowed guests to try
RC ground vehicles, such as this rock crawler.
04sig1_00MSTRPG.QXD 2/22/11 1:35 PM Page 26
April 2011 27
Aircraft
Sport
1. Jim Levell, Sportster
2. Donald Butman, Pou Du Ciel
3. Richard Cline, Maverick
Aerobatic
1. Donald Butman, Mini-Oriental
Glider/Sailplane (Non-Electric)
1. Carl Maas, Republic F-84 Thunderjet
2. Mark Eddingfield, Slingsby T.G. Kirby
Kite
3. Brian Laird, Bao Attitude
Scale, Military (Non-Jet)
1. Michael Valdez, Hawker Typhoon
2. Spani Wayne, Mk 9E Spitfire
3. Lawrence Klingberg, Sopwith Pup on
Floats
Scale, Civilian (Non-Jet)
1. Brad Osborne, Meyer Little Toot
2. Lawrence Klingberg, Sikorsky S-29 Twin
3. Tim Albright, Taube—German Air Mail
Sport, Jet
1. Bob Reynolds, F-15 Regal Eagle
2. Bob Reynolds, Falcon 21
Scale, Jet
1. Chris Wolfe, Mirage III RS
2. Anthony Kameen, Heinkel 178 V-1
Boat
Scale
1. Kay Tillman, Crowley 22
2. Richard Macy, Orca
3. J.D. Bitters, USS Stacy
Military
1. Nathan Bitters, USS Rentz
2. J.D. Bitters, PCE
3. Richard Macy, 21st Century Destroyer
Pleasure
1. Kay Tillman, Aphrodite
2. Kay Tillman, Apache II
3. Richard Macy, 1940 Runabout
Car
Electric—On Road
1. Angela Grodell
2. Charles Barnes, Ultra GTI2E
3. Angela Grodell, HB Cyclone
Gas/Glow—On Road
1. Charles Barnes, HPI Nitro RSH
Flying Model Rocket
Sport
1. Anthony Probst, Courier Egg Lofter
2. Ross Iwamoto, Laser-X
3. Robert Vasquez Jr., Courier
Scale
1. Ross Iwamoto, Gemini—Titan II
2. Robert Vasquez Jr., Quest Navaho
AGM
Helicopter
Sport
1. Rozina Ahamed, T-Rex 700 Electric
2. J.D. Bitters, Hughes 500E
3. Carl Maas, Raptor X50
Scale
1. Arlo Watkins, MH-53 Pave Low
2. Jeff Tolomeo, Airstar Hughes 500
3. J.D. Bitters, Bell 212
• There was a total of 59 Static Model
Competition entries.
• Cash awards totaled $1,080.
• Each first place received a $50 cash
award and a plaque.
• Each second place received a $20 cash
award and a plaque.
• Each third place received a plaque.
• The California Associated Modelers
RC Club coordinated the Static Model
Competition. MA
Expo
Static Winners
That’s right. It’s a show. We no longer
call it a “Convention” or “trade event.” And
the effort to put on a “show” was more
apparent for the 2011 gala, thanks to
exhibitors large and small, local club
volunteers, and AMA SIGs that came out to
support the West Coast communities.
The Expo got special treatment this year,
including carpeting throughout the exhibitor
space. Following is what Ben Flesher, an
AMA staff member, had to say about the
addition.
“The Ontario Convention Center went
above and beyond for us this year.
“Every year we plan for the show, we
always look at the floorplan as if anything is
possible. A lot of ideas flood the planning
meetings, because the Ontario Convention
Center is always so accommodating. So the
carpeting added a touch of class and made
vendors a lot more comfortable.”
International Radio Controlled Helicopter
Association (IRCHA) President David
Millner convinced his group that the AMA’s
75th anniversary special Expo celebration
would be an opportunity to highlight how the
AMA SIG positively affects the growth of the
sport. As this group does at the extremely
popular seminars held during the
organization’s Jamborees, held in Muncie,
Indiana, in the summer, it took over the
northwest corner of the main hall and penciled
in experts for 30-minute discussions.
“What we thought would be a challenge to
fill, turned out to be a hot segment of the
entire weekend,” Dave said, giddy with pride.
“The presentations and how-to seminars were
standing-room only, and the average segment
ran almost two hours because audience
participation was so active.”
AMA Expo management has rewritten the
book on conventionlike events. AMA
Marketing Director Jeff Nance explained:
“The AMA Headquarters Marketing
Department pays a huge amount of attention
to organizing and executing the AMA Expo.
We love to entertain and promote the sport.
“Everything we do represents a single
goal: to help young and old appreciate how
valuable and fun aeromodeling can be, no
matter where in the world you do it.”
To mark the 75th anniversary of the AMA,
guest speakers were selected to share stories
about how modeling kindled their
imagination. Because of aeromodeling, people
around the world have advanced into exciting
careers at the forefront of technology, which
involves aviation.
By the way, the AMA is collecting stories
similar to those presented at the Expo. To tell
yours, visit the AMA’s 75th Anniversary Web
site and click on the big bubble window titled
“Share Your Story.”
Written accounts as well as videos are
requested. All AMA members are encouraged
to share even a few lines about their AMA
experience.
Five AMA members talked at the Expo
04sig1_00MSTRPG.QXD 3/1/11 10:36 AM Page 27
April 2011 29
about how their careers in aviation started with
the sport and science of aeromodeling. One of
those speakers, who also commemorated the
Centennial of Naval Aviation, was Captain
Tom Huff.
He walked us through the colorful history
of flying from the water. MA’s intrepid safety
columnist Dave Gee assisted with a reenactment,
in model form, of the first launch
from a carrier deck. Less a big splash, the
flight was entertaining.
Joe Bock is a famous model maker, with
Hollywood movie credits in The Aviator and
Flight of the Phoenix. He proved that using
giant-scale models instead of computergenerated
imagery is still superior (or at least
essential) for capturing the realistic drama of
flight.
Katie Bosman got her start in FF
modeling and earned her place as a National
Champion and AMA scholarship winner. She
currently works as a technical writer,
demonstration pilot, and sales manager for
Jabiru USA Sport Aircraft.
Also making presentations were guests
who understand how preserving history
ensures the noble future of aeromodeling.
Gary Fogel is credited with preserving the
Torrey Pines Gliderport in La Jolla,
California, which is shared by full-scale and
model soaring. How well those distinct
mediums of aviation work together is a proud
testament to how passionate aviators are and
their concern for safety.
No aircraft is more popular in aviation
history than the North American P-51
Mustang. The science and sociology attached
to that fighter are vast and significant. Few
understand those types of connections better
than people such as Brad Lang, who is the
son of a Tuskegee Airman and a
Commemorative Air Force pilot of the Red
Tail Project.
Those five AMA members set a mood of
pride and appreciation. AMA President Dave
Mathewson said:
“We love the modeling crowd here on the
West Coast. Their public activity in the sport
includes a significant ingredient that feeds the
AMA community positively.
“So many of these folks annually trek to
the Midwest and compete in Muncie at the
Nats. Putting on a show for them here is the
least we can do.”
The show of exhibitors and showpeople
offered a spontaneous flow of excitement. It
happens every year.
The indoor flight exhibitions connected
the still color of products and static displays
in the main hall. Audiences packed the indoor
flight area, and the main hall and swap shop
offered a strolling avenue where each pass
seemed to reveal something that was missed
on the previous trip through.
Carl Rankin is an amusing Expo regular;
you’ll see him with RC models made from
drinking straws and cellophane. To watch
his craft fly is similar to the feeling that
infected many with the passion for aviation
in the first place.
As are Carl’s previous designs, his new
triplane—the Jules Verne—is an example of
genius.
“I make all of my models from things
that people give to me,” he revealed.
Carl’s family collects the drinking
straws, and he also uses his abundant supply
to build FF models to give to grade-school
children.
“I love to share the wonder of flight with
others,” he said.
Going to an event offers a rush of
excitement, so it’s good to take a friend with
you to the AMA Expo. The more eyes, the
better.
I found AMA Education Director Bill
Pritchett picking glue off of his fingers after
spending the day in the make-and-take-andfly
area of the show. He said:
“It’s all good. What I love about shows
like the AMA Expo is how it brings so many
segments of the sport together under one
roof. What we’ve added is a celebration of
those that have moved on to careers in
aviation, thanks to the teachings they gained
having fun with model aircraft.”
New technology impresses us, and it is a
big reason why people make the trek to the
Expo. The exhibitors didn’t disappoint this
year, and there were some trends we can
expect to play out in the coming flying
season.
The presence of foam was significant; by
that I’m referring to molded-foam models.
Manufacturers are getting very good at
hiding the fact that these overpowered and
lightly loaded aircraft are made from tiny
beads. In some cases their surfaces are
almost as smooth as glass.
These foam airplanes use electric power,
and they keep getting bigger. Several
vendors had 60-inch, or longer, scale
warbirds and electric-ducted-fan-powered
models in every size that were constructed
from EPO foam material.
Not forgetting our roots, wood models
are extremely popular. And now they are
offered to consider current trends in power
systems. Gas engines are available in a
range of sizes that has not been seen since
the days of Ohlsson and Forster.
Even helicopter manufacturers are
exploring gas power for their popular small
machines. And the 30cc-class airplane
(formerly called the 120 class) could be the
“next big thing” for aerobatic pilots and
sport modelers.
The AMA Expo is all about bringing
modelers together. That mission has been a
part of the AMA mantra for 75 years and
counting. This weekend in particular kicked
off what will be the next 75 years of
aeromodeling excitement.
AMA Executive Vice President Mark
Smith was smiling all weekend, and he
explained why.
“It’s amazing how the exhibitors have
flocked to this show. The variety of offerings
impresses me, not just because of what’s for
sale or what the big manufacturers have
released here.
“Most of all it’s the area clubs and youth
aviation organizations like the Civil Air Patrol
and Navy Cadets that came with an
impressive brigade of recruits. It’s
inspirational.” MA
Michael Ramsey
[email protected]
AMA Expo Sponsors:
AMA 75th Anniversary
http://ama75.com
Gorilla Glue
(800) 966-3458
www.gorillaglue.com
Centennial of Naval Aviation
(619) 545-5939
http://bit.ly/95TyKO
Sources:
Expo videos:
www.amaexpo.com
Expo exhibitor list:
http://amaexpo.com/attractions/vendors
More Expo photos:
www.flickr.com/groups/1639234@N22
04sig1_00MSTRPG.QXD 2/22/11 1:43 PM Page 29

22 MODEL AVIATION
Expo by Michael Ramsey
Left: Carl Rankin builds all of
his models from materials and
equipment that is given to him.
He has on-hand free-flight
prizes for kids made from
drinking straws and cellophane.
Yes, they fly!
Sunny California
during the first weekend
of the new year—
January 7-9 in 2011—is
the perfect place to get
the AMA’s 75th
anniversary celebration
cooking. The AMA Expo
is like a circus, of sorts; it
has lots of sights to see,
and the entertainment is
bountiful.
04sig1_00MSTRPG.QXD 3/1/11 12:32 PM Page 22
April 2011 23
Photos by the author
The Civil Air Patrol and Navy
Seal Cadets presented the
colors each day of the Expo.
Their attendance was inspiring.
All together at
the AMA Expo
RC flight simulators
were set up throughout
the show floor. Kids—
and many moms and
dads—were always
waiting in line to get a
turn.
04sig1_00MSTRPG.QXD 2/22/11 1:05 PM Page 23
24 MODEL AVIATION
“Commodore” Dave Gee kicked off the US
Centennial of Naval Aviation celebration by reenacting
the first flight from a carrier with a
scratch-built, rubber-powered model of the
Curtiss design.
Katie Bosman (R) and Deidra Gee helped build hundreds of rubber-powered
models that were free to kids who attended the Expo.
Brad Osborne (San Pedro CA) won Civilian Scale (Non-Jet) in the Static Model
Competition with his scratch-built Meyer Little Toot. It’s 37% scale and powered with a
Zenoah GT-80 engine.
Gorilla Glue sponsored both the airplane and
rocket make-and-take areas.
Vendors displayed an enormous number of EPO molded-foam models of both
propeller and jet scale aircraft, in a variety of sizes.
Rotor F/X sells a
number of ultralight
helicopter kits.
Constructing this
Mosquito is identical
to building a
model—only you get
to climb in and work
the controls from
the inside.
04sig1_00MSTRPG.QXD 2/22/11 1:12 PM Page 24
Jeff Tolomeo and his daughter,
Ashley explain some of the scale
features on his F/A-18 Super Hornet
to Captain Tom Huff—an AMA
member and naval aviator.
Joe Bock of Aero Telemetry displayed a number of active projects in his
collection, including a 1/2-scale H-1, a giant-scale C-130, and a working
Lockheed Constellation engine.
Centered on the Expo floor was the AMA Village, with
the RC simulator on the south end (shown) and the
National Model Aviation Museum store on the north.
C h a d Bu d reau ( L ), A M A ’s
M u l t i m e di a Pu b l i cati on staff
mem b e r, gets t h e fac t s fr o m
B r ad La n g, a Commemora ti ve
Ai r Force Must ang pilot, a bout
the ae rodynamics of FF and the
Red Tail Project.
Expo
April 2011 25
airplane and
Donald Butman (Woodland Hills CA) won
the Static Model Competition Aerobatic
class with his Mini-Oriental powered by a
Norvel engine.
04sig1_00MSTRPG.QXD 3/1/11 10:30 AM Page 25
26 MODEL AVIATION
Lawrence Klingberg’s latest Static Model Competition
dominator was this scratch-built Sikorsky S-29, which he
modeled after the aircraft Howard Hughes owned that was
featured in the movie Hell’s Angels.
Matt Stringer demonstrated models from DWFoamies, all of which
are powered with Hacker brushless motors. This 55-inch-span Juka is
part of the company’s outdoor product line.
Arlo Watkins (Chandler AZ) won the Scale Military class in
the Static Model Competition with his finely detailed Sikorsky
MH-53 Pave Low helicopter.
A special thanks to the Black Sheep Squadron for running the
education resource area of the Expo. A number of displays featured
models built on-site during the show.
Guest speakers such as Aero Telemetry founder Joe Bock gave lectures
throughout the weekend about how aeromodeling inspired their careers in
aviation.
Several vendors at the Expo allowed guests to try
RC ground vehicles, such as this rock crawler.
04sig1_00MSTRPG.QXD 2/22/11 1:35 PM Page 26
April 2011 27
Aircraft
Sport
1. Jim Levell, Sportster
2. Donald Butman, Pou Du Ciel
3. Richard Cline, Maverick
Aerobatic
1. Donald Butman, Mini-Oriental
Glider/Sailplane (Non-Electric)
1. Carl Maas, Republic F-84 Thunderjet
2. Mark Eddingfield, Slingsby T.G. Kirby
Kite
3. Brian Laird, Bao Attitude
Scale, Military (Non-Jet)
1. Michael Valdez, Hawker Typhoon
2. Spani Wayne, Mk 9E Spitfire
3. Lawrence Klingberg, Sopwith Pup on
Floats
Scale, Civilian (Non-Jet)
1. Brad Osborne, Meyer Little Toot
2. Lawrence Klingberg, Sikorsky S-29 Twin
3. Tim Albright, Taube—German Air Mail
Sport, Jet
1. Bob Reynolds, F-15 Regal Eagle
2. Bob Reynolds, Falcon 21
Scale, Jet
1. Chris Wolfe, Mirage III RS
2. Anthony Kameen, Heinkel 178 V-1
Boat
Scale
1. Kay Tillman, Crowley 22
2. Richard Macy, Orca
3. J.D. Bitters, USS Stacy
Military
1. Nathan Bitters, USS Rentz
2. J.D. Bitters, PCE
3. Richard Macy, 21st Century Destroyer
Pleasure
1. Kay Tillman, Aphrodite
2. Kay Tillman, Apache II
3. Richard Macy, 1940 Runabout
Car
Electric—On Road
1. Angela Grodell
2. Charles Barnes, Ultra GTI2E
3. Angela Grodell, HB Cyclone
Gas/Glow—On Road
1. Charles Barnes, HPI Nitro RSH
Flying Model Rocket
Sport
1. Anthony Probst, Courier Egg Lofter
2. Ross Iwamoto, Laser-X
3. Robert Vasquez Jr., Courier
Scale
1. Ross Iwamoto, Gemini—Titan II
2. Robert Vasquez Jr., Quest Navaho
AGM
Helicopter
Sport
1. Rozina Ahamed, T-Rex 700 Electric
2. J.D. Bitters, Hughes 500E
3. Carl Maas, Raptor X50
Scale
1. Arlo Watkins, MH-53 Pave Low
2. Jeff Tolomeo, Airstar Hughes 500
3. J.D. Bitters, Bell 212
• There was a total of 59 Static Model
Competition entries.
• Cash awards totaled $1,080.
• Each first place received a $50 cash
award and a plaque.
• Each second place received a $20 cash
award and a plaque.
• Each third place received a plaque.
• The California Associated Modelers
RC Club coordinated the Static Model
Competition. MA
Expo
Static Winners
That’s right. It’s a show. We no longer
call it a “Convention” or “trade event.” And
the effort to put on a “show” was more
apparent for the 2011 gala, thanks to
exhibitors large and small, local club
volunteers, and AMA SIGs that came out to
support the West Coast communities.
The Expo got special treatment this year,
including carpeting throughout the exhibitor
space. Following is what Ben Flesher, an
AMA staff member, had to say about the
addition.
“The Ontario Convention Center went
above and beyond for us this year.
“Every year we plan for the show, we
always look at the floorplan as if anything is
possible. A lot of ideas flood the planning
meetings, because the Ontario Convention
Center is always so accommodating. So the
carpeting added a touch of class and made
vendors a lot more comfortable.”
International Radio Controlled Helicopter
Association (IRCHA) President David
Millner convinced his group that the AMA’s
75th anniversary special Expo celebration
would be an opportunity to highlight how the
AMA SIG positively affects the growth of the
sport. As this group does at the extremely
popular seminars held during the
organization’s Jamborees, held in Muncie,
Indiana, in the summer, it took over the
northwest corner of the main hall and penciled
in experts for 30-minute discussions.
“What we thought would be a challenge to
fill, turned out to be a hot segment of the
entire weekend,” Dave said, giddy with pride.
“The presentations and how-to seminars were
standing-room only, and the average segment
ran almost two hours because audience
participation was so active.”
AMA Expo management has rewritten the
book on conventionlike events. AMA
Marketing Director Jeff Nance explained:
“The AMA Headquarters Marketing
Department pays a huge amount of attention
to organizing and executing the AMA Expo.
We love to entertain and promote the sport.
“Everything we do represents a single
goal: to help young and old appreciate how
valuable and fun aeromodeling can be, no
matter where in the world you do it.”
To mark the 75th anniversary of the AMA,
guest speakers were selected to share stories
about how modeling kindled their
imagination. Because of aeromodeling, people
around the world have advanced into exciting
careers at the forefront of technology, which
involves aviation.
By the way, the AMA is collecting stories
similar to those presented at the Expo. To tell
yours, visit the AMA’s 75th Anniversary Web
site and click on the big bubble window titled
“Share Your Story.”
Written accounts as well as videos are
requested. All AMA members are encouraged
to share even a few lines about their AMA
experience.
Five AMA members talked at the Expo
04sig1_00MSTRPG.QXD 3/1/11 10:36 AM Page 27
April 2011 29
about how their careers in aviation started with
the sport and science of aeromodeling. One of
those speakers, who also commemorated the
Centennial of Naval Aviation, was Captain
Tom Huff.
He walked us through the colorful history
of flying from the water. MA’s intrepid safety
columnist Dave Gee assisted with a reenactment,
in model form, of the first launch
from a carrier deck. Less a big splash, the
flight was entertaining.
Joe Bock is a famous model maker, with
Hollywood movie credits in The Aviator and
Flight of the Phoenix. He proved that using
giant-scale models instead of computergenerated
imagery is still superior (or at least
essential) for capturing the realistic drama of
flight.
Katie Bosman got her start in FF
modeling and earned her place as a National
Champion and AMA scholarship winner. She
currently works as a technical writer,
demonstration pilot, and sales manager for
Jabiru USA Sport Aircraft.
Also making presentations were guests
who understand how preserving history
ensures the noble future of aeromodeling.
Gary Fogel is credited with preserving the
Torrey Pines Gliderport in La Jolla,
California, which is shared by full-scale and
model soaring. How well those distinct
mediums of aviation work together is a proud
testament to how passionate aviators are and
their concern for safety.
No aircraft is more popular in aviation
history than the North American P-51
Mustang. The science and sociology attached
to that fighter are vast and significant. Few
understand those types of connections better
than people such as Brad Lang, who is the
son of a Tuskegee Airman and a
Commemorative Air Force pilot of the Red
Tail Project.
Those five AMA members set a mood of
pride and appreciation. AMA President Dave
Mathewson said:
“We love the modeling crowd here on the
West Coast. Their public activity in the sport
includes a significant ingredient that feeds the
AMA community positively.
“So many of these folks annually trek to
the Midwest and compete in Muncie at the
Nats. Putting on a show for them here is the
least we can do.”
The show of exhibitors and showpeople
offered a spontaneous flow of excitement. It
happens every year.
The indoor flight exhibitions connected
the still color of products and static displays
in the main hall. Audiences packed the indoor
flight area, and the main hall and swap shop
offered a strolling avenue where each pass
seemed to reveal something that was missed
on the previous trip through.
Carl Rankin is an amusing Expo regular;
you’ll see him with RC models made from
drinking straws and cellophane. To watch
his craft fly is similar to the feeling that
infected many with the passion for aviation
in the first place.
As are Carl’s previous designs, his new
triplane—the Jules Verne—is an example of
genius.
“I make all of my models from things
that people give to me,” he revealed.
Carl’s family collects the drinking
straws, and he also uses his abundant supply
to build FF models to give to grade-school
children.
“I love to share the wonder of flight with
others,” he said.
Going to an event offers a rush of
excitement, so it’s good to take a friend with
you to the AMA Expo. The more eyes, the
better.
I found AMA Education Director Bill
Pritchett picking glue off of his fingers after
spending the day in the make-and-take-andfly
area of the show. He said:
“It’s all good. What I love about shows
like the AMA Expo is how it brings so many
segments of the sport together under one
roof. What we’ve added is a celebration of
those that have moved on to careers in
aviation, thanks to the teachings they gained
having fun with model aircraft.”
New technology impresses us, and it is a
big reason why people make the trek to the
Expo. The exhibitors didn’t disappoint this
year, and there were some trends we can
expect to play out in the coming flying
season.
The presence of foam was significant; by
that I’m referring to molded-foam models.
Manufacturers are getting very good at
hiding the fact that these overpowered and
lightly loaded aircraft are made from tiny
beads. In some cases their surfaces are
almost as smooth as glass.
These foam airplanes use electric power,
and they keep getting bigger. Several
vendors had 60-inch, or longer, scale
warbirds and electric-ducted-fan-powered
models in every size that were constructed
from EPO foam material.
Not forgetting our roots, wood models
are extremely popular. And now they are
offered to consider current trends in power
systems. Gas engines are available in a
range of sizes that has not been seen since
the days of Ohlsson and Forster.
Even helicopter manufacturers are
exploring gas power for their popular small
machines. And the 30cc-class airplane
(formerly called the 120 class) could be the
“next big thing” for aerobatic pilots and
sport modelers.
The AMA Expo is all about bringing
modelers together. That mission has been a
part of the AMA mantra for 75 years and
counting. This weekend in particular kicked
off what will be the next 75 years of
aeromodeling excitement.
AMA Executive Vice President Mark
Smith was smiling all weekend, and he
explained why.
“It’s amazing how the exhibitors have
flocked to this show. The variety of offerings
impresses me, not just because of what’s for
sale or what the big manufacturers have
released here.
“Most of all it’s the area clubs and youth
aviation organizations like the Civil Air Patrol
and Navy Cadets that came with an
impressive brigade of recruits. It’s
inspirational.” MA
Michael Ramsey
[email protected]
AMA Expo Sponsors:
AMA 75th Anniversary
http://ama75.com
Gorilla Glue
(800) 966-3458
www.gorillaglue.com
Centennial of Naval Aviation
(619) 545-5939
http://bit.ly/95TyKO
Sources:
Expo videos:
www.amaexpo.com
Expo exhibitor list:
http://amaexpo.com/attractions/vendors
More Expo photos:
www.flickr.com/groups/1639234@N22
04sig1_00MSTRPG.QXD 2/22/11 1:43 PM Page 29