District II
New Jersey, New York, Europe
During the past year, modelers and clubs have dealt with the many challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Fortunately, much of that seems to be behind us and clubs are working hard to open up their events and flying sites, although with precautions and within local mandates. I recently had an opportunity to visit two such events that proved to be great successes.
On April 9-10, 2021 I attended the inaugural Toledo R/C Swap Meet, auction, and fun-fly, an exciting new event intended to fill the void of the departure of the long-standing Weak Signals Toledo Show: R/C Model Expo. Held at the Toledo Seagate Convention Centre, the new event was intended to build on the evolving interest in RC swap meets, and it certainly delivered. The WEAK Signals’ event history spanned 65 years, but because of various factors, the traditional exposition format is no longer viable.
This phenomenon of declining trade shows has affected virtually all industries and interests, and not just in our hobby. The new direction of swap meets supports our hobby well and it is a good social experience for modelers.
The Weak Signals club not only hosted one of the premier national hobby shows, it was generous with its proceeds throughout the years with donations to charitable causes including
AMA’s scholarship program. To their credit, the organizers of the new Toledo RC Swap Meet also made a donation to the AMA Foundation. Modelers owe thanks to both the hard work of the Weak Signals over many decades, as well as to the new Toledo RC Swap Meet for taking on a great effort in challenging times.
On Sunday, April 11, 2021, I attended the 57th annual RC Aircrafters of Western New York auction at the Ismailia Shrine Center in West Seneca, New York. Attending with me was District II Associate Vice President (AVP) Gary Fitch. District II AVP Bill Hauth once again served as one of the auctioneers. Dr. Luis “Doc” Melgar also handled auctioneer duties.
The club did a great job of organizing the event and keeping things running smoothly. A new component of the Aircrafters event was “swap meet tables.” Lower-priced items were located here for direct purchase. This proved popular with many buyers. Thanks to the Aircrafters for another fun event.
Remember, it’s not about what you fly, it is the friends you make.
