Constraints could jeopardize our future
Bob Brown
bobb@modelaircraft.org
The federal government and the current FAA Reauthorization Act continue to challenge AMA members. Our recent visit to Congress was constructive in most respects, and not even 3 feet of snow could stop our efforts to represent the membership.
The U.S. House of Representatives recently unveiled its version of the FAA Reauthorization Act, which we viewed as being positive toward recreational modelers. Unfortunately, the Senate version was not as encouraging and has generated some critical problems. We are currently working through this.
If we request that members contact their representatives in Congress, please do so. The constraints that the Senate wants to institute could jeopardize the future of model aviation.
Some of you might not realize that there is an area approximately 15 miles in diameter surrounding Washington, D.C., that prohibits outdoor model airplane flight. This no-fly zone was extended to 30 miles last year, impacting 14 AMA clubs.
Thanks to the cooperative efforts of District IV Vice President Jay Marsh, local AMA members, and AMA Headquarters government relations staff members, we were able to remove the zone extension. This same group is currently working to educate the local populace in the benefits and enjoyment of model aviation. I recently visited with some members of this group and am sure their efforts will be worthwhile.
Although you might think that the problem in Washington, D.C., is inherent to that area, it is not. Our hobby’s perception varies in specific areas. Although it is challenging, it is an absolute necessity that we generate a positive influence on society.
One easy way to do this is for clubs to participate in the Gold AMA Leader Club program. Its requirements are relatively simple, and the rewards might ensure your right to fly. Additional information can be found on the AMA website at www.modelaircraft.org/files/708.pdf.
I recently visited various sites and activities from New York City to Perry, Georgia. I thank all of those who offered constructive comments concerning our efforts. A stop in Statesboro, Georgia, provided an afternoon of fun at Plosser Field and at Helen’s Hobbies, Blois and Helen Prosser’s hobby shop and flying site. The couple has generated a great site run by great people. If your travels take you through Statesboro, stop in and enjoy what we did.
The Westchester Radio Aero Modelers (WRAM) Show in Secaucus, New Jersey, continues to provide East Coast modelers a venue at which to see the latest products. This year, Safety Third Racing enhanced the show by demonstrating their skills flying FPV racers in a drone cage. They were a hit with the crowd.
Thanks to everyone who was involved with the 2016 WRAM Show held in February.
Nominations are open for the positions of AMA president and vice presidents in Districts I, V, and IX. If you want to nominate a person for any of these positions, submit your nomination to AMA Headquarters by June 19, 2016.
