Such things do exist at the the District Level - both District VIII and District II have such forums that are supported by the District VP. Others, particularly District V have a forum, but NOT supported by the VP - he would probably like to see it disappear.

There is plenty of talent available to set one up for the whole AMA rather than just individual Districts. But it will take support from the top to work. It could be part of the AMA web page or in a separate format, with each District VP nominating someone from his district to share in the moderator duties. Another option that would require no effort at all is for the AMA web page and District Web pages to link to this form and make it "quasi official" AMA forum.

I set up an "allama" forum on Yahoo
[ [email protected] ] , but the response has not been that great, individual district e-mail lists are similarly poorly subscribed considering the number of members in the district.

Participation is the key to a strong AMA, it has to be driven both from the grass roots and accepted by the top echelon. There has been very little effort, IMHO to increase the involvement of the membership and the membership doesn't seem to care all that much.

Think of all the opportunities that member driven projects could address.

Technical and Historical archives.

Better member services such as keeping club contact lists current.

Better access to field locations with details as to visitor acceptance for traveling modelers and first time attendees to events.

Automated district mailings of events.

The possibilities are endless. But without some "Help wanted" ads from the AMA you can't expect many applicants.

Red S.
AMA 951
District V