ORIGINAL: STLPilot

Certainly, I addressed each point of their proposal. I think the proposal was 99% dead on the mark. Problem is that nobody wants change, they just want new members to magically appear. Also most members are rural, could give a crap about urban fliers. This proposal is a great way to get more minorities involved in aeromodeling.

I am sending this E-mail to you in a request for your assistance. With recent advancements in electric R/C technologies and the advent of the very popular "Park Flyer" aircraft, the demographics of the modeling community are rapidly changing. In order to better serve our members the AMA Executive Council is considering instituting a membership program that is specifically aimed at addressing the needs of the park flyer pilots. We have defined these "park flyer modelers" as having models that weigh 2 pounds or less, do not exceed 60 mph, and do not fly higher than 200 feet.
---Sounds about right for park flyers. You enforce this the same way you enforce the 55lbs rule. Speed will be harder to determine, but payouts only occur when there is an accident and it's been determined that the speed was over 60 mph. This is how all insurance works.

This proposed program would have less insurance coverage, be limited to non-sanctioned events,
---Great, if they want to compete in events in the future they can upgrade, but what percentage of e-flyers would even want to compete? Either way it's a win win for capture.

and include a bimonthly magazine focusing on electric-powered aircraft.
---Terrific and I'm sure all these new companies with e-power products to sell would embrace a niche auddience, that how marketing works, target your audience. Heck they might even get Target, Wallyworld and Radio Shack on board as advertisers if they know how to whale hunt. Bi-monthly, perfect.

Additionally, we view this new membership group as establishing electric-power flying fields in urban areas
---Wow, more then half the population in America and now after 70 years they want a crack at them, brilliant!

and not being part of existing clubs.
---Great sounds like a nice way to develop a true "park" flyer program designed for parks and small areas typically where gas/glow can fly.

We have priced this program at $29.95 per year.
---Half the price, less then half the costs of the AMA full package, sounds more profitable per user to me.

To better assess the views of the membership, the AMA Executive Council is seeking your input in answering the following questions:

1) Given your current involvement in the hobby, would an "electric only" program as described above better meet your needs?
---Who cares, why even ask the members, just put it out there for a test drive for 3 years. What is there to lose? Nothing, only to gain.

2) If such an alternative membership program was offered, would you be inclined to choose this program over your existing full-service membership?
---Maybe maybe not, who cares, they have a choice.

Again, I want to underscore that this is a proposed program.

Thank you for your assistance!

Joyce Hager