Edition: Model Aviation - 2016/07
Page Numbers: 138
Portrait of Eric Williams

District II—New Jersey, New York, Europe

Portrait of Eric Williams

Eric Williams
Vice President

rcpilot@nycap.rr.com
4242 Amanda Ln., Schenectady NY 12303
Tel.: (518) 356-2057

www.amadistrict-ii.org
www.facebook.com/DistrictIIAMA

Youth are the future of model aviation. That often-stated, yet obvious, phrase can be elusive for clubs to capitalize on. One young man, Nicholas Lamoreaux, has proven to his club that given encouragement, guidance, and a welcoming atmosphere, youth have a keen desire to explore and learn about all facets of model aviation.

Oneonta RC Flyers club members Mitchel J. Jones and Al Kanser recognized the interest and contributions of Nicholas, and nominated him for AMA’s Youth Leadership Award. The best description for Nick’s involvement in model aviation is found in the text from his award application.

“Nick has been interested in flight since he could walk. His love of airplanes and anything that flies has grown from toys he threw across the room to gas-powered Stunt [Control Line Aerobatics] planes. Over the past few years, Nick begged his dad to join the Oneonta RC Flyers, a Gold Level club near Oneonta, New York.

“Nick finally took it upon himself to get the ball rolling. He found the club president’s email address from the club’s website and started a conversation. Before long, Nick was invited to come and fly with the club.

Nicholas Lamoreaux and Al Kanser standing outdoors
Nicholas Lamoreaux with District II Associate Vice President Al Kanser.

Shortly after, at the age of 12, Nick was nominated for membership and joined.

“Nick loves to fly, but he also loves to talk to or help anyone regarding their airplanes. At shows or meets, he can be found spotting for another pilot, helping others put planes together, or take them apart, or flying some type of aircraft. Nick has also helped several of his friends get into the hobby by helping them choose aircraft, helping them set up or build their planes, and training them to fly. Lately, Nick has been training his grandfather and uncle to fly quadcopters. All are becoming qualified fliers.

“Nick has been an asset to the Oneonta Radio Control Flyers with his flying skills and his approachability in the field of RC aircraft. He flew at the open house the Oneonta club held, and is planning on being at the upcoming mall show to explain the AMA and flying.

“In closing, if Nick is fortunate enough to win this award, we are certain it will encourage him to reach a higher level both in his love of flying and his respect for the AMA.”

Thanks to the Oneonta RC Flyers, Nick’s aspirations seem secure. On Wednesday, May 4, 2016, Nick was rewarded for his efforts and was presented with the AMA Youth Leadership Award for District II.

On April 9-10, 2016, the Plattsburgh Radio Aero Modelers (PRAMS), in New York, held its mall show at the Champlain Center Mall. Everything from turbines to trainers was displayed, along with operating RC tanks and land vehicles. The PRAMS club members installed an RC track at their field several years ago that has increased membership and family and community participation. Congratulations to the PRAMS for being community involved!

Remember, it’s not about what you fly, it’s about the people and the friends you make.

Model airplanes displayed on tables at a mall show
The Plattsburgh Radio Aeromodelers Mall Show.