New Comers
As we drop into a new year, the winter months and the long line of swap-shop events, it seems prudent to pass along some thoughts regarding radio systems. Perhaps a little history would help the discussion. In 1982, the present set of 72 MHZ frequencies were assigned for model airplane use. A similar set of 75 MHz frequencies were placed in service for surface use. The seven frequencies formerly used by modelers were shared with commercial users. These were grandfathered for five years and were formally phased out as of March 1987. Those frequencies were 72.080, 72.160, 72.240, 72.320, 72.400, 72.960 and 75.640 MHz. Not only is the use of those frequencies illegal for models at this time, it should be understood that they are assigned to commercial users for such activities as high-powered pagers, etc. Furthermore, the use of those frequencies by AMA members is a violation of the Academy's Safety Code.
New Comers
AT SOME POINT individuals who have been attracted to our hobby/sport of aeromodeling are prone to feel that they are no longer NewComers or beginners. But how do we determine that point? The movement is evolutionary rather than revolutionary. The accumulation of information, development of reflexes, and refinement of skills are blended into this equation. Some clubs maintain specific training programs, such as those I've talked about in the past. These typically include a "graduation" that somehow identifies the end of the training period. Usually this recognition is based on some judgment of the flying skills and safety knowledge revealed by the candidate. Clubs often reward this metamorphosis by publicly recognizing the individual with a pin, patch, or certificate.
NewComers
WHEN THIS COLUMN was born, I stated that I would try to provide a potpourri of material for NewComers and clubs, old and alike. In its two-plus years, a variety of programs have been featured and many more have been located. Critics have suggested that what AMA should be doing is generating its own generic program and feeding it to the educational and modeling worlds. We have resisted that option for a variety of reasons. Perhaps the first and foremost reason centers around the fact that any program, no matter how good, must be tailored to the individual or individuals who intend to present it. The dynamics of a group are unique, as is the relationship developed with the leader. The program flows in and around those people and it is their personalities that feed the system.
NewComers
AS A NEWCOMER, you very often find yourself with far more questions than answers. Even more perplexing, sometimes the answers prove to be incorrect, or answer a question you haven't even thought to ask! How frustrating! What's a body to do? The key to this problem is the fact that the NewComer must be willing to seek help and be able to separate the wheat from the chaff when it's received. Let's explore the avenues available. Please understand that these are not necessarily in order of importance.
NewComers
MODEL AIRPLANE CLUBS are very much like any other type of club in many ways. And one of the most common elements can be summed up by the statement, "Don't miss a meeting-you'll wind up `volunteering' for a job!" Those of us who have been around awhile have had that happen. While it's kind of flattering to the individual, it's not the best way to assign a task if you want it done right. One responsibility that seems to be awarded without proper consideration is that of club flying instructor. Often the group automatically selects the individual with the best piloting skills. The philosophy espoused is, "He's a top competition flyer, ergo he'll be a good flying teacher." How wrong you are! Quite frankly, that individual may be the very worst choice in your club.
