File: 10bobbrown.lt1
[headline: Model aviation at the EAA AirVenture]
[pullquote: “We will miss Bliss’ common sense and dedication.”]
AMA District IV Vice President Bliss Teague was the epitome of a Southern gentleman. In recent years, Bliss fought a terminal illness but continued to serve as vice president. On August 2, he made his final flight. We will miss Bliss’ common sense and dedication.
The AMA offers sincere condolences to Shirley, his wife of 55 years, and to his great family.
In accordance with the AMA Standing Rules, as per Bliss’s request, Hank Mausolf assumed his position as the District IV vice president until a special election can be conducted this fall.
This year’s model aviation representation at the Experimental Aircraft Association AirVenture was by far the best ever. The main reason for this was the effort of Matt Chapman and Frank Noll. Their tandem aerobatic routine was the highlight of the full-scale airshow on two days.
Also featured was a scale demonstration by Mike Barbee, Will Berninger, Paul LeTourneau, and Brian O’Meara. While these pilots were flying outside, RJ Gritter and Devin McGrath demonstrated their indoor flying abilities at the Gathering of Eagles Banquet.
AMA volunteers were located at KidVenture, the EAA AirVenture Museum, and on the main exhibition grounds at the new Pathways Pavilion, providing a constructive introduction to model aviation. Thanks to everyone involved!
Maker Faire is a gathering of people interested in anything new and creative. AMA was fortunate to attend Maker Faire Detroit held at The Henry Ford in Dearborn, Michigan. Our education trailer allowed us to extend our great avocation to those in attendance at this great museum complex.
If you have never attended one of these events, I highly recommend it. Many of the displays are of great interest to aeromodelers. They are held in approximately 150 locations throughout the world.
The International Radio Control Helicopter Association (IRCHA) continues to create the greatest RC helicopter show in the world: the IRCHA Jamboree. More than a thousand modelers came to AMA’s International Aeromodeling Center to participate.
It is amazing to see the advancements in equipment, but it appears that the prime focus is generating and renewing friendships. For a first-time attendee, I am sure many new friends were made. For those who have previously attended, it was old-home week.
As I write this column, the comment period for the FAA Interpretative Rule is still continuing thanks to a 60-day extension AMA requested. I find it hard to believe that a number of you have yet to provide your thoughts to our government. Complacency will certainly cause unhappiness in the future.
Despite the negative reactions, the FAA is attempting to show its support of National Model Airplane Day. FAA personnel plan to attend numerous AMA events.
You will soon receive your renewal notice for the upcoming year. Also included will be an election ballot.
Please respond promptly and vote for the candidate of your choice. Voting is granted to each Open and Senior AMA member. Please vote![dingbat]
