April 2011 9
INtheAIR
AMA HEADQUARTERS AND MEMBER NEWS
NRHSA
Supports
AMA’s
Government
Relations
NRHSA President Bruce Thorne (R) presents a check to
AMA President Dave Mathewson.
AMA President Dave Mathewson
received a $1,000 donation from the
National Retail Hobby Stores
Association (NRHSA) and its
president, Bruce Thorne, in support
of the Academy’s governmentrelations
efforts.
Bruce said:
“NRHSA is keenly aware of the
good work AMA is doing to protect
the flying privileges of its members
and all who are active in
aeromodeling. This donation is a
vote of confidence that AMA’s
stance on potential FAA regulations
is not only correct, but necessary.”
The NRHSA is the collective
voice for more than 300 hobby
shops across the US and Canada.
More than 130 hobby shops
nationwide have participated in the
AMA’s Hobby Shop Program since
its inception in 1998.
The Academy is extremely
appreciative of the support it has
received from its many industry
partners in its quest to mitigate any
negative effects that potential
federal regulations might have on
aeromodeling. MA
—AMA Staff
For background and further information about these pending FAA regulations, go to
www.modelaircraft.org/gov.
04sig1_00MSTRPG.QXD 2/22/11 12:12 PM Page 9
INtheAIR
10 MODEL AVIATION
Recognizing a Vital Academy Member
L-R: WyMoPA President Rich Hardt, Carl Goldberg Vital People Award
recipient Bill Carpenter, and WyMoPA Safety Officer Sollie Cadman, who
nominated Bill for the award.
Happy Anniversary, Tower Hobbies!
Bruce Holecek, an enthusiastic RC modeler, founded Tower Hobbies in 1971 with only $800 and a dream. In just
a few years, his dream evolved into the world’s most respected, most popular mail-order hobby company.
Tower Hobbies still has the reputation of being the world’s best hobby store 40 years later. Today the company
has more than 300,000 loyal customers, and that number continues to grow each day. Bruce Holecek’s dedication to
providing first-class service and affordable prices has led to the company’s lasting success.
Throughout the past four decades, Tower Hobbies has revolutionized the hobby industry in many exciting ways.
One early innovation (toll-free “800” telephone lines) made it possible to reach more customers. The company’s
annual catalogs—another key innovation—function as sales tools and valuable sources of information.
In 1994 Tower Hobbies revolutionized the industry again, by becoming the first hobby company to have its own
Web site. TowerHobbies.com was an instant hit with customers, who helped it win the prestigious BizRate Circle of
Excellence Award for 10 years in a row.
To show its appreciation, Tower Hobbies is announcing a 40th Anniversary Sweepstakes. Entrants can win a
Tower Hobbies gift certificate worth up to $1,000.
Subscribe to the Tower Hobbies e-mail newsletter for a chance to win, and become a part of this company’s
lasting legacy! MA
—From a Tower Hobbies Press Release
Bill Carpenter received the 2010 Carl Goldberg
Vital People Award at an indoor flying session that
the Wyoming Modelers Park Association
(WyMoPA) held on January 5, 2011.
This honor is bestowed upon no more than five
AMA members each year, who have been identified
as making significant contributions to aeromodeling.
Bill has been inspiring fliers for more than 40 years.
His developments in solid-state ignitions for small
engines have been a boon to model aviation. The
ignitions from his company—C&H Electronic
Inc.—are used worldwide in model aircraft and
Unmanned Aerial Vehicles.
Bill has helped many people get started in
aeromodeling. At more than 70 years old, he still
takes time to explain our sport to everyone who
visits our field.
His hard work and dedication have helped our
club site become the best in west central Wyoming.
Bill’s kindness and assistance at the site go far
beyond what is asked or required of a WyMoPA
member, and he has never asked for anything in
return.
Bill graciously donated his $200 award check to
WyMoPA. We congratulate him on his award! MA
—Wyoming Modelers Park Association
Riverton, Wyoming
District IX
04sig1_00MSTRPG.QXD 2/22/11 12:13 PM Page 10
April 2011 11
INtheAIR
The accompanying photo shows Gary Goodrich (planemaker1@
embarqmail.com) holding my Ultra Sport 60 after its completion in
December 2009. (See this issue’s “Focal Point” section to read about
John Bromley’s Ultra Sports.)
There are two amazing things about Gary: he suffers from
muscular dystrophy and he has to use a mobile walker to get around.
And Gary’s workshop is no bigger than two cubicles. His
workbench measures only 18 inches by 16.5 feet, and that is where
Goodrich Builds
Good Models
As a follow-up to the “Wittman’s Pursuit” article in the January 2011
MA, the National Model Aviation Museum shares the
accompanying photograph (R) of Ron Wittman’s 1973
Supersweep 22 and Jim Buxton’s 2010 Amalgam 6.0.
They are currently on display next to each other in
the museum gallery.
These Indoor FF Hand-Launched
Gliders set AMA national records 37
years apart in the Unlimited ceilingheight
category.
The development of Indoor
Gliders throughout the years is
evident when comparing the
two. The Supersweep is all
balsa and was launched javelin style,
while the Amalgam features an all-composite wing and
was launched tip or discus style.
Ron donated the Supersweep 22 at the 2006 AMA Convention in Ontario,
California. Jim donated the Amalgam while he was in Muncie, Indiana, for
the Nats in early August 2010. MA
—Maria VanVreede
Museum Registrar
Ron Wittman
demonstrates
the proper
stance for
launching the
Supersweep 22
at AMA Expo
2006.
History Preserved:
T h e C o l l e c t i o n o f t h e
National Model Aviation Museum
he builds and repairs RC airplanes for friends.
Gary has become very involved in aeromodeling in
the last seven years, having worked on many aircraft.
Those have included 30%-scale airplanes and some that
he has built from scratch, such as the Grandson Bipe and
Flamingo that have been showcased in “Focal Point.”
When local modelers and I reach a stage in our
projects at which all we can do is scratch our heads in
confusion, we turn to Gary. Although he has never flown
an RC aircraft, he loves the challenge of building them.
Gary retired from his job as an electrician in New
York and moved to Rolling Greens, Florida. I was
lucky to have crossed paths with him via the local
hobby shop. Even though I’ve been building models
for more than 30 years, I want Gary’s help on the
“special” projects. MA
—John Bromley
District V
04sig1_00MSTRPG.QXD 2/22/11 12:16 PM Page 11
12 MODEL AVIATION
INtheAIR
The Academy recently welcomed Life Members Nicholas J. Johnson (Lubbock TX), Stephen Stephenson (Virginia Beach VA),
Wayne Rauschenbach (Canton OH), Richard Clarke (Easton PA), Jeffrey Fedyna (Havelock NC), George Dawe (Fallbrook CA),
Michael Ortmayer (Saint Augustine FL), and Joshua Duruss (West Hills CA).
For information about becoming a Life Member, contact AMA Headquarters at (800) 435-9262. MA
—AMA Membership Department
AMA Thanks Its Lifetime Supporters!
A fellow AMA member and
I conducted a meeting that
introduced model aircraft to
members of Tiger Scout Troop
71 in Macungie, Pennsylvania.
The “class” was designed to
satisfy two of their electives en
route to receiving their Bobcat
Badges.
We started by displaying
several of our models,
including electric-ducted-fanpowered
aircraft, large
electrics, gliders, Pylon
racers, micro-size airplanes,
trainers, and micro
helicopters. The kids were
amazed and excited about
examining the models and
learning how their servos and
flight surfaces worked.
My partner and I talked
about safety, and then we flew
two micro Blade helicopters
in the room. I supplied a
handout to all of the Scouts’
parents that included
information about the AMA
and how to get started in
aeromodeling and listed
suitable beginner models and where to purchase them.
I supplied the parents with AMA membership sign-up
forms and encouraged them to enroll their children, letting
them know about the very small fee that is required to join.
Part Two of the class consisted of building a model. My
fellow instructor and I had rubber-band-powered balsa glider
kits that Hobby Town in Whitehall, Pennsylvania, supplied
to us at a reduced cost.
We helped the kids assemble their gliders and did riseoff-
ground takeoffs in the large meeting room. The boys
were enthusiastic and had a great time flying their new
airplanes. I had CA and kicker to fix the models that flew
too far in the room.
All of the Scouts got to take their gliders home and had
fun completing their electives.
This was an easy but effective way to expose children
and adults to the Academy and to model aircraft. I have
seen a few photos of Boy Scouts and clubs in the
magazine, and that gave me the idea for this event.
I am hoping that readers see this piece in MA and plan
similar activities in their areas. I would be happy to provide
the handout we used to anyone who is interested. MA
—Ryan Olszewski
[email protected]
(610) 462-4351
District III
Ryan Olszewski and his co-instructor with their enthusiastic students.
Exposing Scouts to Aeromodeling
04sig1_00MSTRPG.QXD 2/22/11 12:19 PM Page 12
Edition: Model Aviation - 2011/04
Page Numbers: 9.10,11,12
Edition: Model Aviation - 2011/04
Page Numbers: 9.10,11,12
April 2011 9
INtheAIR
AMA HEADQUARTERS AND MEMBER NEWS
NRHSA
Supports
AMA’s
Government
Relations
NRHSA President Bruce Thorne (R) presents a check to
AMA President Dave Mathewson.
AMA President Dave Mathewson
received a $1,000 donation from the
National Retail Hobby Stores
Association (NRHSA) and its
president, Bruce Thorne, in support
of the Academy’s governmentrelations
efforts.
Bruce said:
“NRHSA is keenly aware of the
good work AMA is doing to protect
the flying privileges of its members
and all who are active in
aeromodeling. This donation is a
vote of confidence that AMA’s
stance on potential FAA regulations
is not only correct, but necessary.”
The NRHSA is the collective
voice for more than 300 hobby
shops across the US and Canada.
More than 130 hobby shops
nationwide have participated in the
AMA’s Hobby Shop Program since
its inception in 1998.
The Academy is extremely
appreciative of the support it has
received from its many industry
partners in its quest to mitigate any
negative effects that potential
federal regulations might have on
aeromodeling. MA
—AMA Staff
For background and further information about these pending FAA regulations, go to
www.modelaircraft.org/gov.
04sig1_00MSTRPG.QXD 2/22/11 12:12 PM Page 9
INtheAIR
10 MODEL AVIATION
Recognizing a Vital Academy Member
L-R: WyMoPA President Rich Hardt, Carl Goldberg Vital People Award
recipient Bill Carpenter, and WyMoPA Safety Officer Sollie Cadman, who
nominated Bill for the award.
Happy Anniversary, Tower Hobbies!
Bruce Holecek, an enthusiastic RC modeler, founded Tower Hobbies in 1971 with only $800 and a dream. In just
a few years, his dream evolved into the world’s most respected, most popular mail-order hobby company.
Tower Hobbies still has the reputation of being the world’s best hobby store 40 years later. Today the company
has more than 300,000 loyal customers, and that number continues to grow each day. Bruce Holecek’s dedication to
providing first-class service and affordable prices has led to the company’s lasting success.
Throughout the past four decades, Tower Hobbies has revolutionized the hobby industry in many exciting ways.
One early innovation (toll-free “800” telephone lines) made it possible to reach more customers. The company’s
annual catalogs—another key innovation—function as sales tools and valuable sources of information.
In 1994 Tower Hobbies revolutionized the industry again, by becoming the first hobby company to have its own
Web site. TowerHobbies.com was an instant hit with customers, who helped it win the prestigious BizRate Circle of
Excellence Award for 10 years in a row.
To show its appreciation, Tower Hobbies is announcing a 40th Anniversary Sweepstakes. Entrants can win a
Tower Hobbies gift certificate worth up to $1,000.
Subscribe to the Tower Hobbies e-mail newsletter for a chance to win, and become a part of this company’s
lasting legacy! MA
—From a Tower Hobbies Press Release
Bill Carpenter received the 2010 Carl Goldberg
Vital People Award at an indoor flying session that
the Wyoming Modelers Park Association
(WyMoPA) held on January 5, 2011.
This honor is bestowed upon no more than five
AMA members each year, who have been identified
as making significant contributions to aeromodeling.
Bill has been inspiring fliers for more than 40 years.
His developments in solid-state ignitions for small
engines have been a boon to model aviation. The
ignitions from his company—C&H Electronic
Inc.—are used worldwide in model aircraft and
Unmanned Aerial Vehicles.
Bill has helped many people get started in
aeromodeling. At more than 70 years old, he still
takes time to explain our sport to everyone who
visits our field.
His hard work and dedication have helped our
club site become the best in west central Wyoming.
Bill’s kindness and assistance at the site go far
beyond what is asked or required of a WyMoPA
member, and he has never asked for anything in
return.
Bill graciously donated his $200 award check to
WyMoPA. We congratulate him on his award! MA
—Wyoming Modelers Park Association
Riverton, Wyoming
District IX
04sig1_00MSTRPG.QXD 2/22/11 12:13 PM Page 10
April 2011 11
INtheAIR
The accompanying photo shows Gary Goodrich (planemaker1@
embarqmail.com) holding my Ultra Sport 60 after its completion in
December 2009. (See this issue’s “Focal Point” section to read about
John Bromley’s Ultra Sports.)
There are two amazing things about Gary: he suffers from
muscular dystrophy and he has to use a mobile walker to get around.
And Gary’s workshop is no bigger than two cubicles. His
workbench measures only 18 inches by 16.5 feet, and that is where
Goodrich Builds
Good Models
As a follow-up to the “Wittman’s Pursuit” article in the January 2011
MA, the National Model Aviation Museum shares the
accompanying photograph (R) of Ron Wittman’s 1973
Supersweep 22 and Jim Buxton’s 2010 Amalgam 6.0.
They are currently on display next to each other in
the museum gallery.
These Indoor FF Hand-Launched
Gliders set AMA national records 37
years apart in the Unlimited ceilingheight
category.
The development of Indoor
Gliders throughout the years is
evident when comparing the
two. The Supersweep is all
balsa and was launched javelin style,
while the Amalgam features an all-composite wing and
was launched tip or discus style.
Ron donated the Supersweep 22 at the 2006 AMA Convention in Ontario,
California. Jim donated the Amalgam while he was in Muncie, Indiana, for
the Nats in early August 2010. MA
—Maria VanVreede
Museum Registrar
Ron Wittman
demonstrates
the proper
stance for
launching the
Supersweep 22
at AMA Expo
2006.
History Preserved:
T h e C o l l e c t i o n o f t h e
National Model Aviation Museum
he builds and repairs RC airplanes for friends.
Gary has become very involved in aeromodeling in
the last seven years, having worked on many aircraft.
Those have included 30%-scale airplanes and some that
he has built from scratch, such as the Grandson Bipe and
Flamingo that have been showcased in “Focal Point.”
When local modelers and I reach a stage in our
projects at which all we can do is scratch our heads in
confusion, we turn to Gary. Although he has never flown
an RC aircraft, he loves the challenge of building them.
Gary retired from his job as an electrician in New
York and moved to Rolling Greens, Florida. I was
lucky to have crossed paths with him via the local
hobby shop. Even though I’ve been building models
for more than 30 years, I want Gary’s help on the
“special” projects. MA
—John Bromley
District V
04sig1_00MSTRPG.QXD 2/22/11 12:16 PM Page 11
12 MODEL AVIATION
INtheAIR
The Academy recently welcomed Life Members Nicholas J. Johnson (Lubbock TX), Stephen Stephenson (Virginia Beach VA),
Wayne Rauschenbach (Canton OH), Richard Clarke (Easton PA), Jeffrey Fedyna (Havelock NC), George Dawe (Fallbrook CA),
Michael Ortmayer (Saint Augustine FL), and Joshua Duruss (West Hills CA).
For information about becoming a Life Member, contact AMA Headquarters at (800) 435-9262. MA
—AMA Membership Department
AMA Thanks Its Lifetime Supporters!
A fellow AMA member and
I conducted a meeting that
introduced model aircraft to
members of Tiger Scout Troop
71 in Macungie, Pennsylvania.
The “class” was designed to
satisfy two of their electives en
route to receiving their Bobcat
Badges.
We started by displaying
several of our models,
including electric-ducted-fanpowered
aircraft, large
electrics, gliders, Pylon
racers, micro-size airplanes,
trainers, and micro
helicopters. The kids were
amazed and excited about
examining the models and
learning how their servos and
flight surfaces worked.
My partner and I talked
about safety, and then we flew
two micro Blade helicopters
in the room. I supplied a
handout to all of the Scouts’
parents that included
information about the AMA
and how to get started in
aeromodeling and listed
suitable beginner models and where to purchase them.
I supplied the parents with AMA membership sign-up
forms and encouraged them to enroll their children, letting
them know about the very small fee that is required to join.
Part Two of the class consisted of building a model. My
fellow instructor and I had rubber-band-powered balsa glider
kits that Hobby Town in Whitehall, Pennsylvania, supplied
to us at a reduced cost.
We helped the kids assemble their gliders and did riseoff-
ground takeoffs in the large meeting room. The boys
were enthusiastic and had a great time flying their new
airplanes. I had CA and kicker to fix the models that flew
too far in the room.
All of the Scouts got to take their gliders home and had
fun completing their electives.
This was an easy but effective way to expose children
and adults to the Academy and to model aircraft. I have
seen a few photos of Boy Scouts and clubs in the
magazine, and that gave me the idea for this event.
I am hoping that readers see this piece in MA and plan
similar activities in their areas. I would be happy to provide
the handout we used to anyone who is interested. MA
—Ryan Olszewski
[email protected]
(610) 462-4351
District III
Ryan Olszewski and his co-instructor with their enthusiastic students.
Exposing Scouts to Aeromodeling
04sig1_00MSTRPG.QXD 2/22/11 12:19 PM Page 12
Edition: Model Aviation - 2011/04
Page Numbers: 9.10,11,12
April 2011 9
INtheAIR
AMA HEADQUARTERS AND MEMBER NEWS
NRHSA
Supports
AMA’s
Government
Relations
NRHSA President Bruce Thorne (R) presents a check to
AMA President Dave Mathewson.
AMA President Dave Mathewson
received a $1,000 donation from the
National Retail Hobby Stores
Association (NRHSA) and its
president, Bruce Thorne, in support
of the Academy’s governmentrelations
efforts.
Bruce said:
“NRHSA is keenly aware of the
good work AMA is doing to protect
the flying privileges of its members
and all who are active in
aeromodeling. This donation is a
vote of confidence that AMA’s
stance on potential FAA regulations
is not only correct, but necessary.”
The NRHSA is the collective
voice for more than 300 hobby
shops across the US and Canada.
More than 130 hobby shops
nationwide have participated in the
AMA’s Hobby Shop Program since
its inception in 1998.
The Academy is extremely
appreciative of the support it has
received from its many industry
partners in its quest to mitigate any
negative effects that potential
federal regulations might have on
aeromodeling. MA
—AMA Staff
For background and further information about these pending FAA regulations, go to
www.modelaircraft.org/gov.
04sig1_00MSTRPG.QXD 2/22/11 12:12 PM Page 9
INtheAIR
10 MODEL AVIATION
Recognizing a Vital Academy Member
L-R: WyMoPA President Rich Hardt, Carl Goldberg Vital People Award
recipient Bill Carpenter, and WyMoPA Safety Officer Sollie Cadman, who
nominated Bill for the award.
Happy Anniversary, Tower Hobbies!
Bruce Holecek, an enthusiastic RC modeler, founded Tower Hobbies in 1971 with only $800 and a dream. In just
a few years, his dream evolved into the world’s most respected, most popular mail-order hobby company.
Tower Hobbies still has the reputation of being the world’s best hobby store 40 years later. Today the company
has more than 300,000 loyal customers, and that number continues to grow each day. Bruce Holecek’s dedication to
providing first-class service and affordable prices has led to the company’s lasting success.
Throughout the past four decades, Tower Hobbies has revolutionized the hobby industry in many exciting ways.
One early innovation (toll-free “800” telephone lines) made it possible to reach more customers. The company’s
annual catalogs—another key innovation—function as sales tools and valuable sources of information.
In 1994 Tower Hobbies revolutionized the industry again, by becoming the first hobby company to have its own
Web site. TowerHobbies.com was an instant hit with customers, who helped it win the prestigious BizRate Circle of
Excellence Award for 10 years in a row.
To show its appreciation, Tower Hobbies is announcing a 40th Anniversary Sweepstakes. Entrants can win a
Tower Hobbies gift certificate worth up to $1,000.
Subscribe to the Tower Hobbies e-mail newsletter for a chance to win, and become a part of this company’s
lasting legacy! MA
—From a Tower Hobbies Press Release
Bill Carpenter received the 2010 Carl Goldberg
Vital People Award at an indoor flying session that
the Wyoming Modelers Park Association
(WyMoPA) held on January 5, 2011.
This honor is bestowed upon no more than five
AMA members each year, who have been identified
as making significant contributions to aeromodeling.
Bill has been inspiring fliers for more than 40 years.
His developments in solid-state ignitions for small
engines have been a boon to model aviation. The
ignitions from his company—C&H Electronic
Inc.—are used worldwide in model aircraft and
Unmanned Aerial Vehicles.
Bill has helped many people get started in
aeromodeling. At more than 70 years old, he still
takes time to explain our sport to everyone who
visits our field.
His hard work and dedication have helped our
club site become the best in west central Wyoming.
Bill’s kindness and assistance at the site go far
beyond what is asked or required of a WyMoPA
member, and he has never asked for anything in
return.
Bill graciously donated his $200 award check to
WyMoPA. We congratulate him on his award! MA
—Wyoming Modelers Park Association
Riverton, Wyoming
District IX
04sig1_00MSTRPG.QXD 2/22/11 12:13 PM Page 10
April 2011 11
INtheAIR
The accompanying photo shows Gary Goodrich (planemaker1@
embarqmail.com) holding my Ultra Sport 60 after its completion in
December 2009. (See this issue’s “Focal Point” section to read about
John Bromley’s Ultra Sports.)
There are two amazing things about Gary: he suffers from
muscular dystrophy and he has to use a mobile walker to get around.
And Gary’s workshop is no bigger than two cubicles. His
workbench measures only 18 inches by 16.5 feet, and that is where
Goodrich Builds
Good Models
As a follow-up to the “Wittman’s Pursuit” article in the January 2011
MA, the National Model Aviation Museum shares the
accompanying photograph (R) of Ron Wittman’s 1973
Supersweep 22 and Jim Buxton’s 2010 Amalgam 6.0.
They are currently on display next to each other in
the museum gallery.
These Indoor FF Hand-Launched
Gliders set AMA national records 37
years apart in the Unlimited ceilingheight
category.
The development of Indoor
Gliders throughout the years is
evident when comparing the
two. The Supersweep is all
balsa and was launched javelin style,
while the Amalgam features an all-composite wing and
was launched tip or discus style.
Ron donated the Supersweep 22 at the 2006 AMA Convention in Ontario,
California. Jim donated the Amalgam while he was in Muncie, Indiana, for
the Nats in early August 2010. MA
—Maria VanVreede
Museum Registrar
Ron Wittman
demonstrates
the proper
stance for
launching the
Supersweep 22
at AMA Expo
2006.
History Preserved:
T h e C o l l e c t i o n o f t h e
National Model Aviation Museum
he builds and repairs RC airplanes for friends.
Gary has become very involved in aeromodeling in
the last seven years, having worked on many aircraft.
Those have included 30%-scale airplanes and some that
he has built from scratch, such as the Grandson Bipe and
Flamingo that have been showcased in “Focal Point.”
When local modelers and I reach a stage in our
projects at which all we can do is scratch our heads in
confusion, we turn to Gary. Although he has never flown
an RC aircraft, he loves the challenge of building them.
Gary retired from his job as an electrician in New
York and moved to Rolling Greens, Florida. I was
lucky to have crossed paths with him via the local
hobby shop. Even though I’ve been building models
for more than 30 years, I want Gary’s help on the
“special” projects. MA
—John Bromley
District V
04sig1_00MSTRPG.QXD 2/22/11 12:16 PM Page 11
12 MODEL AVIATION
INtheAIR
The Academy recently welcomed Life Members Nicholas J. Johnson (Lubbock TX), Stephen Stephenson (Virginia Beach VA),
Wayne Rauschenbach (Canton OH), Richard Clarke (Easton PA), Jeffrey Fedyna (Havelock NC), George Dawe (Fallbrook CA),
Michael Ortmayer (Saint Augustine FL), and Joshua Duruss (West Hills CA).
For information about becoming a Life Member, contact AMA Headquarters at (800) 435-9262. MA
—AMA Membership Department
AMA Thanks Its Lifetime Supporters!
A fellow AMA member and
I conducted a meeting that
introduced model aircraft to
members of Tiger Scout Troop
71 in Macungie, Pennsylvania.
The “class” was designed to
satisfy two of their electives en
route to receiving their Bobcat
Badges.
We started by displaying
several of our models,
including electric-ducted-fanpowered
aircraft, large
electrics, gliders, Pylon
racers, micro-size airplanes,
trainers, and micro
helicopters. The kids were
amazed and excited about
examining the models and
learning how their servos and
flight surfaces worked.
My partner and I talked
about safety, and then we flew
two micro Blade helicopters
in the room. I supplied a
handout to all of the Scouts’
parents that included
information about the AMA
and how to get started in
aeromodeling and listed
suitable beginner models and where to purchase them.
I supplied the parents with AMA membership sign-up
forms and encouraged them to enroll their children, letting
them know about the very small fee that is required to join.
Part Two of the class consisted of building a model. My
fellow instructor and I had rubber-band-powered balsa glider
kits that Hobby Town in Whitehall, Pennsylvania, supplied
to us at a reduced cost.
We helped the kids assemble their gliders and did riseoff-
ground takeoffs in the large meeting room. The boys
were enthusiastic and had a great time flying their new
airplanes. I had CA and kicker to fix the models that flew
too far in the room.
All of the Scouts got to take their gliders home and had
fun completing their electives.
This was an easy but effective way to expose children
and adults to the Academy and to model aircraft. I have
seen a few photos of Boy Scouts and clubs in the
magazine, and that gave me the idea for this event.
I am hoping that readers see this piece in MA and plan
similar activities in their areas. I would be happy to provide
the handout we used to anyone who is interested. MA
—Ryan Olszewski
[email protected]
(610) 462-4351
District III
Ryan Olszewski and his co-instructor with their enthusiastic students.
Exposing Scouts to Aeromodeling
04sig1_00MSTRPG.QXD 2/22/11 12:19 PM Page 12
Edition: Model Aviation - 2011/04
Page Numbers: 9.10,11,12
April 2011 9
INtheAIR
AMA HEADQUARTERS AND MEMBER NEWS
NRHSA
Supports
AMA’s
Government
Relations
NRHSA President Bruce Thorne (R) presents a check to
AMA President Dave Mathewson.
AMA President Dave Mathewson
received a $1,000 donation from the
National Retail Hobby Stores
Association (NRHSA) and its
president, Bruce Thorne, in support
of the Academy’s governmentrelations
efforts.
Bruce said:
“NRHSA is keenly aware of the
good work AMA is doing to protect
the flying privileges of its members
and all who are active in
aeromodeling. This donation is a
vote of confidence that AMA’s
stance on potential FAA regulations
is not only correct, but necessary.”
The NRHSA is the collective
voice for more than 300 hobby
shops across the US and Canada.
More than 130 hobby shops
nationwide have participated in the
AMA’s Hobby Shop Program since
its inception in 1998.
The Academy is extremely
appreciative of the support it has
received from its many industry
partners in its quest to mitigate any
negative effects that potential
federal regulations might have on
aeromodeling. MA
—AMA Staff
For background and further information about these pending FAA regulations, go to
www.modelaircraft.org/gov.
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INtheAIR
10 MODEL AVIATION
Recognizing a Vital Academy Member
L-R: WyMoPA President Rich Hardt, Carl Goldberg Vital People Award
recipient Bill Carpenter, and WyMoPA Safety Officer Sollie Cadman, who
nominated Bill for the award.
Happy Anniversary, Tower Hobbies!
Bruce Holecek, an enthusiastic RC modeler, founded Tower Hobbies in 1971 with only $800 and a dream. In just
a few years, his dream evolved into the world’s most respected, most popular mail-order hobby company.
Tower Hobbies still has the reputation of being the world’s best hobby store 40 years later. Today the company
has more than 300,000 loyal customers, and that number continues to grow each day. Bruce Holecek’s dedication to
providing first-class service and affordable prices has led to the company’s lasting success.
Throughout the past four decades, Tower Hobbies has revolutionized the hobby industry in many exciting ways.
One early innovation (toll-free “800” telephone lines) made it possible to reach more customers. The company’s
annual catalogs—another key innovation—function as sales tools and valuable sources of information.
In 1994 Tower Hobbies revolutionized the industry again, by becoming the first hobby company to have its own
Web site. TowerHobbies.com was an instant hit with customers, who helped it win the prestigious BizRate Circle of
Excellence Award for 10 years in a row.
To show its appreciation, Tower Hobbies is announcing a 40th Anniversary Sweepstakes. Entrants can win a
Tower Hobbies gift certificate worth up to $1,000.
Subscribe to the Tower Hobbies e-mail newsletter for a chance to win, and become a part of this company’s
lasting legacy! MA
—From a Tower Hobbies Press Release
Bill Carpenter received the 2010 Carl Goldberg
Vital People Award at an indoor flying session that
the Wyoming Modelers Park Association
(WyMoPA) held on January 5, 2011.
This honor is bestowed upon no more than five
AMA members each year, who have been identified
as making significant contributions to aeromodeling.
Bill has been inspiring fliers for more than 40 years.
His developments in solid-state ignitions for small
engines have been a boon to model aviation. The
ignitions from his company—C&H Electronic
Inc.—are used worldwide in model aircraft and
Unmanned Aerial Vehicles.
Bill has helped many people get started in
aeromodeling. At more than 70 years old, he still
takes time to explain our sport to everyone who
visits our field.
His hard work and dedication have helped our
club site become the best in west central Wyoming.
Bill’s kindness and assistance at the site go far
beyond what is asked or required of a WyMoPA
member, and he has never asked for anything in
return.
Bill graciously donated his $200 award check to
WyMoPA. We congratulate him on his award! MA
—Wyoming Modelers Park Association
Riverton, Wyoming
District IX
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April 2011 11
INtheAIR
The accompanying photo shows Gary Goodrich (planemaker1@
embarqmail.com) holding my Ultra Sport 60 after its completion in
December 2009. (See this issue’s “Focal Point” section to read about
John Bromley’s Ultra Sports.)
There are two amazing things about Gary: he suffers from
muscular dystrophy and he has to use a mobile walker to get around.
And Gary’s workshop is no bigger than two cubicles. His
workbench measures only 18 inches by 16.5 feet, and that is where
Goodrich Builds
Good Models
As a follow-up to the “Wittman’s Pursuit” article in the January 2011
MA, the National Model Aviation Museum shares the
accompanying photograph (R) of Ron Wittman’s 1973
Supersweep 22 and Jim Buxton’s 2010 Amalgam 6.0.
They are currently on display next to each other in
the museum gallery.
These Indoor FF Hand-Launched
Gliders set AMA national records 37
years apart in the Unlimited ceilingheight
category.
The development of Indoor
Gliders throughout the years is
evident when comparing the
two. The Supersweep is all
balsa and was launched javelin style,
while the Amalgam features an all-composite wing and
was launched tip or discus style.
Ron donated the Supersweep 22 at the 2006 AMA Convention in Ontario,
California. Jim donated the Amalgam while he was in Muncie, Indiana, for
the Nats in early August 2010. MA
—Maria VanVreede
Museum Registrar
Ron Wittman
demonstrates
the proper
stance for
launching the
Supersweep 22
at AMA Expo
2006.
History Preserved:
T h e C o l l e c t i o n o f t h e
National Model Aviation Museum
he builds and repairs RC airplanes for friends.
Gary has become very involved in aeromodeling in
the last seven years, having worked on many aircraft.
Those have included 30%-scale airplanes and some that
he has built from scratch, such as the Grandson Bipe and
Flamingo that have been showcased in “Focal Point.”
When local modelers and I reach a stage in our
projects at which all we can do is scratch our heads in
confusion, we turn to Gary. Although he has never flown
an RC aircraft, he loves the challenge of building them.
Gary retired from his job as an electrician in New
York and moved to Rolling Greens, Florida. I was
lucky to have crossed paths with him via the local
hobby shop. Even though I’ve been building models
for more than 30 years, I want Gary’s help on the
“special” projects. MA
—John Bromley
District V
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12 MODEL AVIATION
INtheAIR
The Academy recently welcomed Life Members Nicholas J. Johnson (Lubbock TX), Stephen Stephenson (Virginia Beach VA),
Wayne Rauschenbach (Canton OH), Richard Clarke (Easton PA), Jeffrey Fedyna (Havelock NC), George Dawe (Fallbrook CA),
Michael Ortmayer (Saint Augustine FL), and Joshua Duruss (West Hills CA).
For information about becoming a Life Member, contact AMA Headquarters at (800) 435-9262. MA
—AMA Membership Department
AMA Thanks Its Lifetime Supporters!
A fellow AMA member and
I conducted a meeting that
introduced model aircraft to
members of Tiger Scout Troop
71 in Macungie, Pennsylvania.
The “class” was designed to
satisfy two of their electives en
route to receiving their Bobcat
Badges.
We started by displaying
several of our models,
including electric-ducted-fanpowered
aircraft, large
electrics, gliders, Pylon
racers, micro-size airplanes,
trainers, and micro
helicopters. The kids were
amazed and excited about
examining the models and
learning how their servos and
flight surfaces worked.
My partner and I talked
about safety, and then we flew
two micro Blade helicopters
in the room. I supplied a
handout to all of the Scouts’
parents that included
information about the AMA
and how to get started in
aeromodeling and listed
suitable beginner models and where to purchase them.
I supplied the parents with AMA membership sign-up
forms and encouraged them to enroll their children, letting
them know about the very small fee that is required to join.
Part Two of the class consisted of building a model. My
fellow instructor and I had rubber-band-powered balsa glider
kits that Hobby Town in Whitehall, Pennsylvania, supplied
to us at a reduced cost.
We helped the kids assemble their gliders and did riseoff-
ground takeoffs in the large meeting room. The boys
were enthusiastic and had a great time flying their new
airplanes. I had CA and kicker to fix the models that flew
too far in the room.
All of the Scouts got to take their gliders home and had
fun completing their electives.
This was an easy but effective way to expose children
and adults to the Academy and to model aircraft. I have
seen a few photos of Boy Scouts and clubs in the
magazine, and that gave me the idea for this event.
I am hoping that readers see this piece in MA and plan
similar activities in their areas. I would be happy to provide
the handout we used to anyone who is interested. MA
—Ryan Olszewski
[email protected]
(610) 462-4351
District III
Ryan Olszewski and his co-instructor with their enthusiastic students.
Exposing Scouts to Aeromodeling
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