President's Perspective - 2015/06
Donating to the AMA Foundation
This month I presented an AMA Foundation Heritage Society certificate to Bob Kane, president of the Toledo Weak Signals club, during the 61st annual Toledo Show: R/C Model Expo. The award recognizes the club's many donations to the AMA Scholarship Fund over the years. A special thank-you goes to the Toledo Weak Signals.
I hope your club will consider donating to the AMA Foundation. Its efforts benefit:
- the scholarship program
- education and youth programming
- the National Model Aviation Museum
- club support
- government advocacy
The goodwill you exhibit could benefit many.
Toledo Show and District III Meeting
While at the show, I attended the District III meeting coordinated by District III Vice President Mark Radcliff. Several AMA programs were explained and various volunteers were introduced. It was a pleasure to see the enthusiastic members.
Thanks to Wayne Yeager and Rick Lederman for more than three decades of show leadership. Thanks also to the club members, show vendors, and model builders for a great exhibit.
Relations with MAAC
I met with several leaders of the governing body for Canadian modelers, the Model Aeronautics Association of Canada (MAAC). We have always enjoyed a good relationship with MAAC, and this meeting was no different.
The discussions focused on cooperative government relations between our countries. The concerns of the FAA and Transport Canada are quite similar, and cooperation between the two groups will help ensure the enjoyment of model aviation for all. Additional meetings and dialogue will continue throughout the year.
Special Interest Groups (SIGs)
Randy Cameron, AMA District VI vice president, chaired a meeting of Special Interest Groups (SIGs). I am impressed with the progress this group has made. We already have a much better relationship, and the result will be increased SIG benefits.
Summer Flying and Equipment Checks
Most of us contended with a rough winter, but the warm weather is now here and flying outside is a welcome change.
Remember to check your equipment:
- Batteries don't last forever — inspect and replace as needed.
- Verify all control surfaces are in good shape.
- Ensure bolts and fittings on your aircraft are secure.
Field Conduct and Safety
It is surprising that some have a hard time recognizing they are not the only modelers on the field. Each year we contend with disagreements, often caused by failing to adhere to the AMA Safety Code or by a lack of respect for other modelers. The AMA Safety Code ensures we all fly safely. Observing rules created by your club is also a must.
Abusing flightline rules is probably the most common issue encountered. I can understand an occasional problem, but habitual poor behavior must be prohibited. Starting your model in the proper designated area protects everyone at the field. Most of all, common sense must prevail. I am sure a safe attitude will enhance your flying enjoyment.
Respect and Communications
Our dedicated AMA employees receive numerous communications throughout the day. Nearly all are extremely positive, but recently a few have been abusive.
I consider those who use foul language unworthy of AMA membership. Please treat everyone the way you would expect to be treated. The AMA expects everyone to foster an encouraging, family-type environment at all of our fields and functions.
Transcribed from original scans by AI. Minor OCR errors may remain.
