Now you're Talking

U R Cecchetini M w Ti II g HAVE READ numerous articles have published recent issues magazine have alluded decline youth interest model aviation very thought-provoking has prompted pass concept alleged problem whatever may worth love airplanes began late 1920s 1930s doubt romance aviation its highest ebb us youth bracket just see airplane close range sight behold talk about days began carving solid models out box wood monoplane almost rarity low-wing racing type prize winner see Hobby shops did exist know today especially rural areas Free Flight models beginning stages development easily affordable us can honestly say early fascination airplanes seed led aviation career real interest model airplane activities really blossomed colleagues worked Naval Air Station Alameda California Control Line flying rapidly becoming popular first model engine Ohlsson 19 cost days pay journeyman aviation metalsmith todays economy days pay could buy much better equivalent engine conclusions would cost hobby serious factor attracting newcomers group successful flying Control Line models soon became necessary formal club formed could control safety factors involved flying models areas spectators present Also neighborhood noise problem soon developed logical solution petition City Council Alameda separate flying facility built exclusively model flying accomplished field still use today part Parks Recreation Departmentmore 50 years later club went successfully incorporate Northern California Association Model Airplane Clubs Membership high youngsters interested participants Mr William Osborne Alameda dedicated enthusiastic members soon foresaw need challenging program youth pursuing types modeling activities end has devoted thousands hours over 50 years instruction overseeing beneficial endeavor primary concern have safe program involved perfect record safe operation has existed Alameda field 50 years Insurance has provided participants holds frequent classes year building gliders small CL airplanes own design youth adults proud build Kits provided own expense proviso students purchase insurance use field Used Cox engines refurbished Mr Osborne fourhour class some homework usually completes kit Flying instruction given Sunday mornings until student fully capable own Because structured city approved program Mr Osborne receives assistance sources community such civic organizations businesses industries companies individuals model manufacturers such Cox Mr Osborne also provides introductory sessions within lower grades public school system arranges CL flight demonstrations multiple school classes participation greatly appreciated 1982 flying field named William Osborne Model Flying Field honor years volunteer service City Alameda believe obvious stimulation derived group participation key ingredient attracting newcomers maintaining interest hobby regardless cost involved Also case Mr Osbornes program parental participation asked welcomed during phases classes well flying Community support important fortunate Alameda have always enjoyed full Council mayoral support throughout years presence various activities have impressed youth participants very much believe City Alameda California has excellent role model other communities have unique having City provided facilities model airplane enthusiasts 50 years cchetini 316 Haight Ave Alameda CA 94501 184 Model Aviation time section will present thought-provoking ideas modeling/AMA issues Timeliness available space factors may affect publication opinions expressed authors should construed being AMA Headquarters staff AMA officers Dedicated volunteer instructor William Osborne R gives some critical engine-mounting instruction parent