District IX
Colorado, Kansas, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, Wyoming
Yes, it has been nine years between these two pictures. This column marks the end of my three terms allotted by the AMA bylaws, and next month, this space will be filled with words from your new District IX vice president.
First, I offer a heartfelt thank-you to my expert assistants, the District IX associate vice presidents. It was your hard work that made my job so easy.
It has been a wonderful experience serving on the AMA Executive Council, but the best part of my tenure has been meeting all of you. Thank you for your hospitality, friendships, and good memories. Whenever the need arose, all I had to do was ask for your help and you answered. I found that “can-do” attitude everywhere I traveled in the district. How refreshing!
I have no qualms about turning over the reins to my able and qualified replacement, Brandon Koch. I am certain he’ll serve you well.
I hope to continue work for the AMA Education Committee and will help Brandon in the district work as best I can. Plus, now I can come fly with all of you and not have to worry about what to put in this space when I get home!
In my first column, way back in 2014, I reported on Warbirds Over the Rockies (WOTR) in Denver, so it is only fitting that similar coverage occupies my last.
WOTR has always championed talented youth. This year, 11-year-old Shane Standsted was a constant presence on the flightline, putting in several flights a day with his jet. He was awarded Best of Show.
WOTR 2022 was a scaled-back event, but it was still attended by a large number of pilots. Brian and Bonnie O’Meara did their usual outstanding job of running the event. They provided tasty food and amenities.
The Arvada Associated Modelers provided top-notch volunteers and the venue. Mother Nature presented generally nice flying weather throughout the weekend. In all, it was a great success. Brian told me that this event has a 20-year history.
One of the District IX clubs celebrating National Model Aviation Day was the Casper Airmodelers Association in Casper, Wyoming. This event not only celebrates our great hobby with good food and flying but it is a fundraiser as well. This year, the club held a 50/50 raffle supporting the Casper Humane Society. The raffle winner donated his half too, so $160 went to help the local animal shelter. Great job!
And last, for those of you who enjoy an obscure reference as much as I do, “So long, and thanks for all the fish.”
Jim Tiller
Vice President
jtiller@hotmail.com
Box 828, Custer SD 57730
(605) 390-3878
ASSOCIATE VICE PRESIDENTS
Craig Bastian, Casper WY; (307)577-6463; craigb1961@msn.com
Tyler Brown, Lincoln NE; (402) 617-0444; tylerzx9@yahoo.com
Brandon Koch, Mandan ND; (701) 471-9575; kochbrandon471@gmail.com
Rick McCaskill, Frederick CO; (303) 682-0440; rickm1947@aol.com
Zachary Roller, Rapid City SC; (605) 519-0815; zroller28@gmail.com
Arend Schuurman, Elkton SD; (605) 695-2122; arend.schuurman@gmail.com
Terry Wiles, Harrisburg SD; terryscustom@yahoo.com
EVENT SANCTION COORDINATOR
Troy Hamm, Gardner KS; (913) 744-5745; funflyr@juno.com
