AMA Today

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October 2011

Terrorist threat demands vigilance from aeromodelers

The recent report of the FBI nabbing a would-be terrorist who intended to use bomb-laden model aircraft to attack federal buildings is a reminder for the aeromodeling community to continue to be aware of suspicious activity at flying sites, hobby shops, and other outlets. All are encouraged to report any such activity to their local FBI office. Click here to read an example FBI advisory on the subject. If you would like to comment on this issue or any aeromodeling/government issue, please email our government relations team at amagov(at)modelaircraft.org, and click the link below to read the recent release from AMA leadership.

Member renewals and election ballots
on the way

Your 2012 membership renewal notice was mailed to you in mid-September along with district and national ballots. Please help the AMA save expenses by clicking on the link below to renew your membership online. It's fast, easy, and more affordable than the U.S. mail. This year we have district vice president contests in Districts III, VII, and XI, plus three candidates running for AMA president, and three running for executive vice president. Ballots must be postmarked by November 12. This is important! Thanks for being there for AMA.

CAF-MOU-signing AMA signs youth program MOUs with FAA and CAF

The Academy continues to reach out to other aviation organizations in partnerships to bring the excitement and career opportunities in aeromodeling and aviation to the youth of America. In September, the AMA signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the FAA that encourages the development of youth aviation education initiatives, STEM skills, etc. Also, the AMA has entered into a similar agreement with the Commemorative Air Force (CAF), which approached the Academy after hearing about its increased focus on serving youth. Pictured above are Steve Brown, President of the CAF, and Mark Smith, Interim President of AMA, signing the MOU October 1 at the District VIII Rice Memorial Fly-In. This brings the potential for our youth membership to soar to more than 16,000.

Prestigious NAA Brewer Trophy bestowed on AMA

Because of AMA's legacy and continuing emphasis on providing "education through aviation," the National Aeronautic Association has awarded the Academy its Brewer Trophy. As announced by NAA president and CEO Jonathan Gaffney, the Academy was cited "For exemplary accomplishment and collaborative work with numerous aerospace organizations across the nation to assist students, teachers, and community leaders in understanding the science, skill, and beauty of flight." Click the link below to read more.

Revised Leader Member program launched

Thanks to the efforts of Leader Member Coordinator Rusty Kennedy and his volunteers on the Leader Member Development Committee, the AMA has launched a newly revised program for our 2,500-plus Leader Members. Two new classifications are being offered - Education Support and Flight Support - with an emphasis on working with AVPs to assist clubs and members with whatever operational issues they may have. Existing Leader Members will not be affected, per se, but like all AMA members, they are encouraged to visit the new section of the AMA website outlining this new approach by clicking the link below.

Youth AMA EXPO ticket prices reduced; all attendees get free mobile app

AMA EXPO 2012, January 6-8, Ontario CA, is offering youth ages 13-18 a reduced price of $5 each. Group tickets purchased in advance also see savings at a reduced price of $8 per ticket, a $2 savings. In addition, all attendees will be able to download a free iPhone RC Flight Source mobile app, featuring AMA flying sites, news, reviews, tools, and workshops, courtesy of 2Brothers Hobby, the app's developer. Click the link below to learn more about our big annual exposition!

Publications preview: Upcoming Model Aviation and Park Pilot features

AMA's two fine magazines, Model Aviation and Park Pilot, invite you to a sneak preview of upcoming editions. Click here to see a PDF article and layout on the AMA's 75th Anniversary Celebration this past July at the International Aeromodeling Center in Muncie, IN. And go here to see the lineup for the latest edition of Park Pilot , available to Open Members for only $9.95 a year. Click the link below to sign up for the best magazine for flying models under 2 pounds.

Would your workplace be open to model flying?

The Intel Corporation, DuPont WA, has an initiative called "Great Place to Work," a program designed to encourage "Fun Teams." AMA member James Holland was instrumental in starting a group of 15 pilots for at-work, stimulating RC model flying. Click the link below to learn more!

AMA is there for clubs with disaster relief

The following clubs were given disaster relief grants from AMA in the month of September: Schoharie Valley Cropclusters (NY); Black Dirt Squadron (NJ); Hampshire County Radio Controllers (MA); North Carolina Space Cowboys (NC); Leatherstocking R/C Buzzards (NY); Garden State Circle Burners (NJ); and North Jersey Radio Control Club (NJ). The total amount granted to these clubs was $3,200. Has your club been treated roughly by Mother Nature? AMA can help. This is just one of the many benefits of being a chartered club of the Academy. Click the link below to learn more about this program.


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