Sponsor a fundraiser for the Wounded Warrior Project
Bob Brown
In my lifetime, the United States has been involved in several conflicts in various countries throughout the world, and numerous people have died or been seriously wounded providing protection for this great country.
This year, the Academy has set aside August 17, 2013, as National Model Aviation Day in conjunction with a fundraiser for the Wounded Warrior Project. The Wounded Warrior Project provides assistance to injured servicemen and women and their families.
Many of our clubs have already signed up to participate at www.modelaircraft.org/nmad.aspx. If your club has not done so already, why not? Please help support those who have given so much for us!
One of the main questions asked about the Wounded Warrior Project effort is, “Do I have to accomplish this on August 17?” The answer is certainly not.
Some ideas that your club might consider include having an auction, collecting donations at a club activity, or organizing a fly-in. If you have questions, please contact AMA’s Development Communication Coordinator Mandee Mikulski at (765) 287-1256, extension 277.
Safety is always of prime importance. Recently, the question was asked, “Do I have to fly in accordance with the AMA Safety Code at all times or just when I am at the club field or at a sanctioned contest?”
One should always fly in compliance with the safety code. The code is there to create a safe, positive environment and image for aeromodelling. If you know something is unsafe, why do it? Too often, videos of reckless flying are posted on the Internet where anyone can view them. Although you might become a viral sensation, what would happen if you caused injury to someone? I doubt that you want an unnecessary accident on your mind for the rest of your life or risk the impact a lawsuit could induce. Please think and fly safely!
The 2012 auditors’ report illustrates that tightening the AMA budget has provided a more positive financial flow. The government activism program is a considerable expenditure and the benefits are beginning to show. Some of our programs have utilized other methods to generate revenue. Thank you to those involved.
Last year produced a positive financial turnaround and I am sure this year will be even better. If you want to review the audit statement, it is located in the “Members Only” section of the AMA website at www.modelaircraft.org/files/auditedfinancialstatements2012.pdf.
This summer’s Camp AMA was another successful program. AMA’s Education department, RJ Gritter, Andrew Jesky, and Nick Maxwell deserve kudos for their dedication. Plans are already being generated for next year. Perhaps your club could sponsor a deserving young AMA member.
Today was an enjoyable day at my club field. It is interesting to sit back and analyze what each member is doing.
Some simple observations included a man trying to learn aerobatics, but he still needs much help with throttle management and placement. Another member was flying a design that is underpowered and unstable, while another was bringing in supplies for the field. This member hasn’t flown in quite a while, but he sure enjoys the camaraderie.
What these people have in common is the fun generated by model aviation. I hope you are having fun!
Transcribed from original scans by AI. Minor OCR errors may remain.
