STL, that last statement is -- I'm certain -- a Dart Thrown at me, however I do agree that AMA needs a real publicity program which means using the FREE publicity opportunities so readily available and NOT buying expensive advertising stuff that darn few ever watch, since the record and fast-forward options on today's TV.
When running for Ex. Director I promised that such would happen even if, and probably would, actually do it myself. Everyone in politics from the White House down to local city/village councils would within a couple years become aware of the Academy of Model Aeronautics, and its programs. In addition all major networks would be well supplied with the good things AMA does relative youth and Senior Citizens plus all major events especially international.
They would be introduced to the values that model aviation can provide: YOUNGER -- becoming aware of things like creative imagination, craftsmanship, personal discipline, aviation sciences, aero-engineering, mechanical operations, and a host of other items: ADULT - leisure time hobby-sport, meeting new people at clubs and events, broadening of educational opportunities in planning - building - flying, SENIOR CITIZEN - same as adult and even more so on the leisure time activity plus sharing with younger people. The list simply goes on forever.

However, if I should be the AMA President, these things would still happen plus the Headquarters staff would get itself stabilized, and what I now perceive as a significant inter-office power shuffle would come to a screeching halt.

It is my very strong opinion that a paid staff, with good pay and benefits, can well be required to perform equally well. The current Pres. disagrees with that philosophy as he once told me that it is too much trouble to train replacements.

Don't get me wrong as I know the EC is NOT a one-man show however while I may well be a tad outspoken here, one thing I well learned in life is that when you are BOSS, what is better: Having all work against you or having all supporting the team? In reality when the team sees the team rising to the top, they just seem to get "Gung-Ho" and start working to be the best. It's not really a problem to get 99% on the "team". You see, I am NOT a follower of the Harvard school of (mis)management, where the TOP get RICHER and the lower levels collect the down-hill run-off. [:'(]

STL, while I sometimes think you are from outer space or you reside there, you have made me think about several issues. AMA does well need a program to come out of the 1970s and into 2010 or better. There has to be methodS to bring interest in the organization to so many that are into flying models yet not so interested in banding together. Much exploration has to be done here. That means trying a number of them and let the bad filter out, not just sitting around and discussing possibilities while time filters us all out.

Another point I strongly believe in is that when model aviation becomes so well known as an organized activity, then getting and keeping those flying sites would become much easier, even in NYC!