I agree. I hope my comments are never taken as Anti-AMA. I am, and always have been, a believer in the importance of the AMA to our hobby, but, just like Mike and others here, I really do feel like they have lost touch of who they are as an organization, and where their priorities and focus should be.

With the advent of new technologies (flying camera platforms, FPV, autonomous flight, long-range capabilities, etc.) that are so far removed from traditional modeling activities and operations, I believe that some distinct separation needs to be made by the AMA in order to protect those things that we have traditionally enjoyed, and that the AMA has a ghost of a chance of "managing" with any kind of consistency.

I think it has been clearly shown that the vast majority of AMA members wish to primarily engage in traditional modeling activities. There are definitely those "traditionalists" who choose to dabble in the new technologies because they are very interesting, but I believe that the vast majority of that segment of modelers are following the established rules and guidelines and are not causing the widespread drama we see on the 6 o'clock news and in our legal system.

I really believe it is time and that there is a need AND room for a second CBO that is focused on, UNDERSTANDS and can advocate for these NEW technologies and the NEW challenges they pose for all.

It has become very clear to me that this new technology really has created a new "hobby" that poses distinctly different concerns than "traditional" modeling activities and, as such, deserves its own organization.

I also hope that we as modelers have evolved enough that my opinions here will not be labeled as separatist, or divisive, but rather forward-thinking and insightful into our ever-emerging world of RC and seeking the best potential outcome for all who want to participate in whatever aspect of this hobby that they choose.

Regards,

Astro