REFLECTING ON THE PAST AND
PLANNING FOR THE FUTURE
By Jay Smith, Executive Editor | jays@modelaircraft.org
I VISITED Florida twice last year and spent some time with my father. Unfortunately, his health has kept him from flying for more than a year; however, I took him to his local field to spend an evening watching night flying and taking part in a cookout. The camaraderie in this hobby is amazing, and we felt very welcome. It was obvious that my father enjoyed being around his friends and they appreciated seeing him. It is hard to imagine what it feels like not to be able to fully participate in a hobby you have loved all of your life.
As I wrote this, my father was back in the hospital, and I am realizing that his time as a model pilot and RC car and boat racer might be in the rearview mirror. He passed his love of the hobby on to me, and I am fortunate to have been able to serve as this publication’s editor for nearly 17 years.
I am confident that if it were not for my father, I likely still would have been involved in the hobby but possibly not for a lifetime. I might not have had the chance to work in a hobby shop or experience the thrill of winning trophies and plaques when competing. Most importantly, I likely would not have all of the great friends who either work in the hobby or just keep it hobby!
Wherever you are in your hobby journey, be it the beginning, middle, or the end, I sincerely hope that this publication inspires, informs, and instructs you.
Wherever you are in your hobby journey, be it the beginning, middle, or the end, I sincerely hope that this publication inspires, informs, and instructs you. If not, let me know how we can make it better in 2025 and beyond.
