District VI
Larry Erbach announced Ralph Warner's induction into the AMA Hall of Fame by the Chain-O-Lakes Eagles RC club, celebrated with a special meeting and presentations. Ralph, a model aviation enthusiast for over 76 years, received recognition from AMA District VI VP Gary Himes, along with a plaque and certificate. Youth members Andrew Durik and Charlie Missak also honored Ralph with a letter and AMA Walk of Fame brick.
Bill Spencer reported the Champaign County RC Club's successful Winter Indoor RC Flying Kickoff party, attracting nearly 100 families and featuring simulators, first-time flights, pizza, and raffle prizes. The event showcased the club's growth and enthusiasm for the upcoming flying season.
Submissions for club articles and photos are encouraged at amadistrictvi@modelaircraft.org.
District VI
Ron Shields from the Chicago Model Masters shared a photo of club member and Tuskegee Airman Dan Williamson, thanking him for his service. The Chicago Model Masters, based in Riverdale, Illinois, emphasizes safety and skill in model aviation, focusing on mentoring youth through educational partnerships.
District VI
The Naperville Prop Masters Aero RC Club held its Polar Bear Fly on January 3 with 13 pilots braving the cold. On January 1, the Henderson Radio Control Model Airplane Club hosted the Snowbird Fly-In, attracting 24 members and 19 pilots, featuring a potluck and various aircraft. The Champaign County RC Club's Build Day on January 10 saw 50 members construct 31 Flite Test Nutballs. Jeremy Church from the Jasper RC Flyers shared a letter outlining the club's community value.
District VI
Brian Stark reported that the Lake Ozark Radio Control Society raised a record $7,100 for the American Cancer Society at their annual cancer benefit fly-in last June in Eldon, Missouri. Despite inclement weather, 36 pilots participated in a successful event featuring a large raffle and auction. Bill Spencer highlighted the Champaign County Radio Control Club's support for the University of Illinois' Design/Build/Fly team, who prepared for a competition amidst winter conditions. Additionally, model aviators should anticipate Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs) during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, affecting flying activities in host cities.
District VI
The AMA National Fun Fly returns June 25-28 in Muncie, IN, featuring RC, Control Line, and Free Flight activities, vendors, and a raffle. Preregister at modelaircraft.org/funfly.
