Author: JR Schiager

Edition: Model Aviation - 2026/03
Page Numbers: 110
District X

Arizona, California, Guam, Hawaii, Nevada, Utah

Introduction and background: I’m honored to introduce myself as the new District X vice president (VP). Model aviation has been a part of my life since 1989, when my father introduced me to the hobby at the age of 19. I learned to fly through the generosity and patience of fellow modelers at the Sacramento Area Modelers club, where Donnie Prince and Stan Pochop served as my instructors.

Training in those days meant handing the radio back when things went wrong, and by the time I soloed, my trainer aircraft showed every lesson it had taught me. Those early experiences instilled an appreciation for mentorship, patience, and the strong sense of community that defines our hobby.

Throughout the years, I’ve flown everything from gliders to large 3D aircraft, with my current focus on 3D flying and warbird racing. I’ve also spent 14 years serving on the Sacramento Area Modelers board, including roles as the publicity director, VP, and president. After stepping off of the club board, I served for two years as an associate vice president for District X, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to now continue that service as the VP.

District X and looking ahead: District X is special to me because of the diversity of people and flying interests that make up our community. From long-time modelers to newcomers, the district reflects the full range of interests within model aviation. My goal as VP is to support all segments of the hobby, encourage safe and enjoyable flying, and help ensure continued growth and participation.

I look forward to staying connected with clubs and members throughout the district, and I hope to see many of you at the flying field and at upcoming events.

Safe flying and safe landings.

Vice President

amadistrictx@modelaircraft.org
1098 Rathbone Cir.

Folsom CA 95630-8530
(916) 705-7778

Associate Vice Presidents

Chuck Barnes, Santa Maria CA; (805) 886-7921; cdbarnes10@comcast.net
Forrest Barton, Woodland CA; (530) 383-9019; cbarton328@aol.com
Stella Bennett, San Pedro CA; (310) 357-4570; bennettblueeagleusa72@gmail.com
Jim Bonnardel, San Diego CA; (858) 292-5518; nitroblast@hotmail.com
Craig Haslebacher, Springville UT; (509) 518-0243; craigsrc1@aol.com
John Johnson, Silver Springs NV; (775) 287-3652; johnorama@gmail.com
Tim Johnson, Mission Viejo CA; (949) 444-7520; timothy@johnson.us.com
Barry Mattison, Las Vegas NV; (702) 416-4636; lvrcav8tr@gmail.com
Jim Mohan, Phoenix AZ; (623) 434-1351; jmohan351@cox.net
Gil Terzo, Las Vegas NV; (702) 523-9897; gterzo@aol.com
Peter Vogel, Santa Clara CA; (408) 569-7067; vogel.peter@gmail.com
Roger Willis, Murrieta CA; (951) 249-9688; willisasoc@aol.com

Event Sanction Coordinators

Forrest Barton (CA north of Bakersfield), Woodland CA; (530) 383-9019; cbarton328@aol.com
Southern California and Arizona, Greg Stone, (949) 413-0920; gstone4@outlook.com
Free Flight: AMA Headquarters, Competition Department, (765) 287-1256, ext. 252; competition@modelaircraft.org

The Mavrix Youth Division launch at the Associated Modelers of Sacramento (AMOS) RC flying club in Lincoln, Calif., reflects a strong commitment to youth outreach—an effort that I fully support and encourage across all programs that introduce kids to model aviation.
The Mavrix Youth Division launch at the Associated Modelers of Sacramento (AMOS) RC flying club in Lincoln, Calif., reflects a strong commitment to youth outreach—an effort that I fully support and encourage across all programs that introduce kids to model aviation.
Youth pilots at the AMOS RC flying club gain hands-on experience through a program dedicated to teaching RC flying, safety, and a lifelong interest in aviation.
Youth pilots at the AMOS RC flying club gain hands-on experience through a program dedicated to teaching RC flying, safety, and a lifelong interest in aviation.
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