There are a few things which I agree with and disagree with in that article.

The general overall impression I got was that the AMA should focus its efforts on bringing the technical aspects of model aviation to the flying public. Things such as building skills, electronics, aerodynamics and such.

While these are important things for every modeler to involve him/herself with, I do not think that this should be the sole focus of the AMA. This is a very poor way of doing things by excluding those that dont have interests in these aspects of model aviation.

We live in an age where many young modelers are wanting instant gratification. They want to fly, but without having to learn why, or how it flys. Its unfortunate, but true. To refuse to cater to these types of entry level flyers is a BIG mistake. This type of mindset is precisely what is killing the AMA.

When the AMA tells a entry level pilot that he must learn to be a aviation rocket scientist before he can go have fun, he's going to take him/herself elsewhere, where there is less required effort. The beginning pilots just dont have the patience to start into the hobby this way.

Instead what needs to happen is that we offer incredible enthusiasm for new flyers, inviting them in with open arms, let them have some fun, encourage them to have fun while flying. But while their having fun, give them insight into the technical aspects. This way they dont lose interest in the hobby, but learn while having fun.

For instance, you have a new flyer that comes to the field and wants to get into model aviation. Instead of just saying ok, this is my plane, this is how it flys, if you wanna fly, go to the hobby shop and buy a plane , then join the club and come fly. We need to peak his interest, but offer guidance as well.

Tell him about the plane, explain how they are built, explain how the plane flys and basic aerodynamics, offer guidance into what type of plane is best for a beginner, offer to teach him how to fly his first plane, offer to give guidance on how to build a plane, encourage him to learn how to build a plane, offer guidance on safety, encourage him to join the AMA, tell him about competition flying, ask him questions on what type of flying he would like to try (control line, electric, glow, gas, scale, jets, etc),

Many flyers use excuses like "I dont have the time to teach a new flyer", "Its more effort than I want to put out", "He will only do it wrong" etc.

My only suggestion is MAKE TIME,GIVE EFFORT, TEACH HIM THE RIGHT WAY. If you dont, the decline of the quality of the hobby will continue. All is NOT lost. We have got to get off our sofas and start getting this hobby on the right track. If your not willing to make this sacrifice for the hobby, dont complain when things dont go your way.

I am telling everyone on here, I offer my services to any of you. I will teach you to fly, I will teach you anything I can. Im not an expert builder or expert pilot, but Im here, and Im willing to do my best. At least Im willing to make the sacrifice and try. Its the least I can do.

I sincerly believe in the merits of our hobby, and how it not only serves as a great hobby, but a great education and learning experience that goes far beyond just a weekend fun time.