View from HQ 2014/01

It’s hard to believe we’ve reached the end of 2013. This seems like this is a good time to look back at some of what AMA has accomplished during the last 12 months.
As was the case in 2012, AMA saw a growth in paid membership. Although two years in a row may not be defined as a trend, it’s certainly nice to see this reversal after a 10-year membership decline.
We’re especially proud that our youth membership numbers have seen a complete reversal from just a few short years ago. Between 2002 and 2009, AMA had lost more than 53% of its youth members. Through hard work and new initiatives, AMA has not only completely recovered this loss but added considerably to these numbers in 2013.
AMA’s Government Relations team continues to make great strides. Our most visible accomplishment in 2012 was being successful in having the AMA amendment protecting model aviation included in the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012.
In 2013, we were faced with additional challenges when nearly three dozen states considered new legislation to protect the public’s privacy rights and civil liberties from the use of small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS). In working with state representatives, AMA was successful in offering language for these proposed bills that would exempt recreational model aviation from the intent of this legislation.
In nearly all of these cases, the sponsors of the bills told us that it was not their intent to harm model aviation and that they were appreciative of AMA reaching out to ensure that didn’t happen.
I think it’s important to point out that, in many cases, AMA worked with its members to get this work accomplished. This shows how the collaborative efforts of a large network of model aviation enthusiasts can accomplish good things. Strength in numbers is important when we speak in unison on an issue; however, strength in numbers may be even more important when it provides the resources needed to protect our ability to enjoy what we do as model aviation enthusiasts. AMA thanks each of its members who stepped up to the plate in 2013 and got involved when needed.
During this past year, AMA took a huge step forward with its publications initiatives. The Model Aviation magazine library and archive was updated to include every magazine issue from the first issue. This resource of nearly 500 monthly issues is a great resource for members who need to do research or simply want to flip through past issues of the magazine to read a little about what model aviation was like 10, 20, and 30 or more years ago.
In early September AMA launched its revised digital version of Model Aviation. Members now have a choice as to how they prefer to receive their magazine. Members can continue to receive a print version, as they always have, or opt to receive a digital version on their computer, tablet, or smartphone. The digital version includes enhanced content such as additional pictures, videos, and even the occasional additional feature article.
The inaugural AMA National Model Aviation Day was held in August 2013. One-hundred seventy-six AMA-chartered clubs participated in this national event that was recognized by a number of state proclamations.