While I could make a long list of things that AMA does which really is a big help to all modelers and modeling itself, other than insurance, I can also make a list probably just as long that AMA does do that at best hinders the modeler/modeling just as much as the help list helps. In addition there is a list for that which AMA should be doing that they never even consider.

Actually I think AMA IS RESPONSIVE to the membership. Only some 15-20% of the voting membership, at best, take any active interest in the administrative/political operations of the AMA. That leaves 80-85% of the membership basically stating that they are happy with how AMA functions. Now, with an 80% majority of the membership approving AMA, just why would the Power-Structure have any reason to NOT continue to perform as they do?

When I consider the flack levied upon me in my recent EC campaigns, from the few that do express interest, I wonder if the moves here for D. Mathewson are really an interest in AMA and/or the man, or simply a revolt against D. Brown with his past performance against those outside his own small world of modeling interests. Actually it could be a trend that a few may not be so quick to jump on an opponent of the current structure, or is it simply a temper thing that will soon pass?

There is not anything that will make AMA "Like it used to be." At least I hope not. Back in the '60s, AMA was going down the tubes. The increasing interest in RC along with proportional control, along with Johnny Clemmens establishing the Charter Club Liability Insurance program for site owners saved AMA. I well remember back in the late '40s, early '50s when the Ray Arden's new fangled Glow-Plug along with 1/2A engines and 1/2A CL saved most modeling companies from going under. In the '80s RC cars saved the RC industry or at least provided the capital to keep them solvent and to introduce the computer radios at comparably inexpensive pricing. Now if the few that have an interest in AMA could REALLY support changes in the AMA EC, at least maybe a turn-around might get AMA back to that which it SHOULD be.

Only with an AMA EC that has a main goal of promotion of model aviation from the grassroots to the highest levels can the growth in membership be accomplished. For example the NRA foundered for years because they only promoted firearms for hunting, and target plinking. Out of some 100 million gun-owners, for years the NRA hovered at less than 3 million members. A few years ago when NRA finally got out the words that preservation of personal arms was basically to defend against oppressive government, that membership nearly tippled in a few short years. (YES, I am and have been for many years a Life Member.)

Now JB you stated a December MA. I have not received that yet, however that makes for 13 copies this year. I have 11 issues and the Special NATS issue. Has the AMA's Chief Financial Officer, EVP, said anything about the extra expense of the mag.? Anything about the budget? Anything at ALL about AMA's future plans financially?
So, Gents, there is still another opportunity this 2005 to upset the Power Structure. Think about it. You will hear more later.

If you want to see AMA grow in NUMBERS as well as in effectiveness, then YOU must contribute to getting others on the bandwagon more so than just at this low interest AMA forum in RCU.