District I
Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Vermont
CMRCM held another successful Toys for Tots Fun Fly, acquiring bags of Christmas toys for needy children.
AMA clubs have learned the importance of supporting local charities and community projects that make a positive difference in the lives of others, while enhancing relationships that often improve the chances of acquiring or retaining flying sites, growing membership, and ensuring the future of aeromodeling.
The following report from Associate Vice President Tom Siwek describes his club’s annual Marine Toys for Tots donations that helped distribute 88,595 toys to 22,220 less fortunate children this past Christmas.
The Central Massachusetts Radio Control Modelers (CMRCM) held its annual Toys for Tots Fun Fly on November 13, 2022. Although this year’s event was cold and rainy, it didn’t deter CMRCM members from coming out to support one of our favorite events of the year.
We started the morning huddled under a trio of pop-up tents to stay dry, but with some help from Mother Nature, the rain parted, leaving us with a 45-minute window for flying. We mobilized quickly and the sky was soon filled with aircraft.
Our guest of honor was Worcester County Toys for Tots Coordinator, U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. James Caldwell who was excited when offered a chance to try his hand piloting a model airplane. Club President Randy Holtqrefe rounded up a trainer and buddy box so that Staff Sgt. Caldwell could get a taste of what we enjoy daily. His smile said it all, and he was a quick study for a first-time pilot. After a few minutes, he did
USMC Staff Sgt. James Caldwell made his first buddy-box flight with club President Randy Holtqrefe.
an outstanding job maintaining altitude and flying the pattern with the other aircraft.
As quickly as the rain stopped, it returned. While we helped him pack his car with the toy haul, Staff Sgt. Caldwell said, “When I learned that the RC club was going to be making its donation, I absolutely had to come out to see you guys fly.” He ended up with a little bit more fun than he bargained for.
Special thanks to event coordinators Joel Smith and Bob Waring. This event is always a win-win for the club, helping Worcester County families in need and supporting the men and women of the Marines!
Thanks to Tom and all of the members of CMRCM for helping less fortunate children have gifts for Christmas.
