Why join the AMA??? PROS/CONS
 

Give me the low down.....What are the pros/cons of the ama?? I am new to flying been at it less than a year. I have a friend that is a very good pilot, he is teaching me to fly. We fly on my land nost of the time. Anyway please give me some advice.

RE: Why join the AMA??? PROS/CONS
 

The first reason you would want to join the AMA is to be able to join an AMA club!

I guess this form is sort of a club. However forums, no matter how active
and helpful they are, lack real contact with real people. That is where clubs
come in. Clubs add that extra dimension to this hobby, the dimension of real people.

I have read many posts about people who don't want to join a club for one
reason or another. I don't plan to argue those points, but to share what I
have found in club membership. You draw your own conclusions.

I have found this club aversion especially common among new electric pilots
because, for the most part, it is easier to go it alone with the electrics
than with the fuel planes and sailplanes. You need less space, you need
less equipment, the planes are typically small and quiet so you can go off
by
yourself and fly and in many cases no one will bother you. However, hang
with me for a moment because, while you might be having a great time, this
post is about having more fun than you are having now.

I almost didn't join the club to which I now belong. I was an electric
flyer and they were a sailplane club that was struggling with the idea of
admitting new members who were just flying electrics. Even before I joined
there was pressure being applied that I should learn to fly sailplanes, I
had to
build a kit, it had to be a sailplane, blah blah blah. However they were
not going
to force me and I can stand up to a little pressure. The field was close
and
large, I knew one guy in the club and there were a few pilots flying
electrics in addition to sailplanes, so I joined.

Boy am I glad that I did.

After 4 years I am having so much fun, I wonder if I am breaking a law
somewhere. To a large extent that fun is due to the wonderful people I
have met in the club. People who are just fun to be around and share this
great hobby. I have found that flying with a group of people who share my
interests is a lot more fun than flying alone.

Oh, there are politics, and I am sure not everyone likes me, but that is the
world as a whole. There are people who still feel I am missing the good
part of the hobby because I don't build all my planes from kits, but they
have
come to accept me as an RTF/ARF guy with growing experience salvaging
other people's cast off planes.

Many of my planes I purchased from club members already built. Some were
actually given to me because the member just didn't have room, or didn't
feel like having that plane anymore and thought I would like it. Some are
called humpty dumpty projects. I put 'em back together again. In the
process I learned to build and to fix.

It was a shock to me when people started coming to ME for advice on
building and fixing. The joke is that I have crashed and wrecked more
planes than anyone so I have more experience in fixing. I don't THINK
it is true, but .... never mind. I digress.

I recently asked for a little help during a meeting. Man, these guys could
not do enough for me. People were e-mailing me with information, sources,
and knowledge I didn't even know I needed. It has been great! And there
is nothing like a friendly hand to show you that you set this "something"
off just a little bit. Fixing that often made a huge difference.

After a while I did try sailplanes and found that, as much as I enjoy the
electrics, I LOVE sailplanes. Now the point is not that you should fly
sailplanes. Heavens no, sailplanes is not for everyone. It is that I had
my own ideas about things, they opened me up to new ideas, some I
accepted and some I did not. If you are a person that will be intimidated
by people arguing over a point or giving you advice you didn't ask for, then
stay on the edge. You will find lots of company on the edge and some of
those people are wonderful people with whom you would like to fly.

If you can accept that this is how the world works and enjoy the flow of
ideas, get into it and become an active member. Perhaps you can even become
a leader. Heck they may make you President because you bring new ideas to
the club A former President of our sailplane club started on a Firebird
XL.

Net net, it is the people as much as the planes that have made this a
wonderful experience for me. I have made many new friends, and perhaps an
enemy or two. Yes, the club has restricted me in a few areas but they have
expended my experience so much in others that, well, I can live with it.

There are safety reasons, insurance reasons, instruction reasons and all
sorts of other excellent reasons to join a club, but the main one is fun.
The
club has made a very enjoyable experience more fun than I could ever have
imagined. If you had a bad club experience, try a different club!

If you are new to the hobby, I strongly suggest you seek out the AMA
clubs in your area. If you don't know how to find them, stop by your
local hobby store and ask. Believe me, they know where all the clubs
are and the character of each one. You can also click on the AMA link
below for the national club listing.

Remember that the address given is a person's
house, not the flying field. For example our club address is 15-20 miles
from my house, but our field is about a mile from me.
http://www.modelaircraft.org/templat...5E31DE4FA6F552

For other countries, use this link:
http://www.fai.org/fai_members/addresses.asp

Stop in and chat with the members. There is probably a club in your area
that is made up of people who share your interests and who would richen your
flying experience.

If there are no clubs in your area, then start one.
AMA Club Charter kit -
http://www.modelaircraft.org/PDF-files/2006clubkit.pdf

AMA Clubs , listed by state. Remember the address shown is a
member's house, not the location of the field.
http://www.modelaircraft.org/clubmain.asp
by zip code
http://www.modelaircraft.org/ClubSearch.aspx

US Model Airplane Clubs - Shown on a Map
Also Model Airplane News
Remember the location is a member, not the field.
http://find.mapmuse.com/re1/interest...AIRPLANE_CLUBS

Contact the AMA or the organizing body in your country and find out what it
takes to start a club. I promise you that there are other people in your
area who
would just LOVE to join, if they only knew there was a club. Most of these
people are folks you would love to meet.

Want to have more fun? Join a club! That's the best reason to join the AMA!

Clear skies and safe flying!


Oh, I forgot the CONs of joining the AMA - Costs $58 per year
For me, it is money well spent for all they do, much of which
I didn't even discus here.

RE: Why join the AMA??? PROS/CONS
 

Thanks for the reply, there is alot of useful info there. I think there are several clubs around here within 15 to 30 miles. Once again, Thanks. Reed

RE: Why join the AMA??? PROS/CONS
 

I like to fly competitively; as an AMA member, I can fly in AMA sanctioned competitions. On consideration, I have become more mellow on Model Aviation, and am pleased to receive it. I also belong to two distant AMA chartered clubs, enjoy the newsletters, and the camaraderie when I do make it to the club fields. So far there is not a local club that covers my interests; maybe someday.

RE: Why join the AMA??? PROS/CONS
 

I think I forgot about this.

I fly in several AMA sanctioned competitions a year. Originally I thought that this would be too intense but it turns out that these competitions are a blast. Even when you come in last you have a great time, meet some wonderful people and everyone is eager to help.

I was flying in a sailplane competition in PA in October. I had a flap servo go bad just before I was due to launch. People came out of the woodwork with a 12V soldering iron, solder, shrink wrap .... and we got the servo changed in time to compete. I didn't even know some of these people before that, but I know them now.

Competition, what a great experience.

RE: Why join the AMA??? PROS/CONS
 

aeajr and Jim T. pretty much cover your question all so very well, that to find something else is rather difficult. However one thing is simply the feeling that you belong to an association that is the nation's main unit of keeping some kind of organization within the model aviation world. By being a member your number lends power and weight to that organization and it's ability to be our spokes-person in national affairs. It makes little difference how much you may disagree with that organization's direction, because as a member you are saying, "I support this hobby/sport of mine and I want it to be recognized as a worthwhile recreational activity." If you desire, as time goes by there are many opportunities to help format the direction of the association.

When you become a member, may I ask you to consider that each and every individual involved with this hobby/sport has some specific interest and that interest may well be different than your interest. It definitely does not mean that either you or he/she is wrong, as no one that likes any form/discipline within the great realm of model aviation can ever be "wrong". It is like our world of people, where sometimes one can fault other groups of people for some reason, yet when that one meets and spends some time with one or more of those group/s, well it most likely will turn out that one will find that group to be the same as all others and want the same good things for their family, friends and others. In reality all of us that build, assemble, fly, and/or associate with "modelers" can find common ground when we allow ourselves to observe all the many interests, skills, and interests of the various individuals.

IMO that in itself is an adequate reason to join the AMA and support this wonderful world of aeromodeling.

RE: Why join the AMA??? PROS/CONS
 

I see nothing wrong in joining the AMA. All I see is the positives, not the negatives. It's well worth paying for the membership, and I get a cool Mag to go with it.

The rules set down are for the safety for all who watch and fly. I have nothing against anyone who promotes Safety and Education.

Plus, AMA Fields are the best up here. Lawns are mowed, and everyone works together in making our airport look great . Not to mention the field is well maintained.

I hope to be a Life long Member one day... but for right now my wife and I are on a tight budget.



Peter Dowling aka Luftwaffe Oberst
AMA District II # 865404
Aero Modelers Club
Pulaski, NY

RE: Why join the AMA??? PROS/CONS
 

Banding together means strength in numbers. There is nothing governments like more than interfering in citizens pastimes.
Sadly, all it would need is a spate of serious accidents within a short space of time to give some jumped up junior politician the chance that he/she needs to make a name for themselves on the backs of our hobby.

Target pistol shooters in Britain lost their hobby a few years ago because they failed to organize and stick together.

RE: Why join the AMA??? PROS/CONS
 

Right! But look at what Britain gained. [X(] A doubling of the crime rate! Aren't you so happy!! [sm=47_47.gif]

RE: Why join the AMA??? PROS/CONS
 

Not to be contrary (OK, I am being contrary, but back to my point), but as usual these things are far more complex than a simple single item may make them seem. Take a look at this article for instance:

http://findarticles.com/p/articles/m...26/ai_19101764

As might be expected, to think that the loss of target shooting pistols is related to the crime rate is an overly simplistic assessment of the situation. An amusing one, but rather unrealistic.

RE: Why join the AMA??? PROS/CONS
 

I'm with you there. NRA has some political power over here, that's why I have my guns. And the NRA promotes safety and backs the laws that are on the books.

AMA does the same thing, and works with the FAA in certain matters. But I doubt the AMA will ever promote who is going to the White House, like the NRA does sometimes.

But yes, anything that becomes divided can't stand. And I in particular hope that it never happens, that some idiot ever does do something so stupid to make AMA go to Washington, and fight for our privilege to fly. I'm afraid some people think it's a right, until they find out the hard way that it isn't.

If you people think AMA Rules is tough, wait until the FAA gets a hold of you. The FAA are nice people, until you cross them. Being a full sized aircraft pilot, I should know. If the AMA doesn't band together, the the FAA will... and it won't be pretty. JMHO


Peter Dowling aka Luftwaffe Oberst
AMA District II # 865404
Aero Modelers Club
Pulaski, NY

RE: Why join the AMA??? PROS/CONS
 

Peter-
Havent you been reading the FAA & 400' threads here?;)

Some promote the idea that our RCs are completely imune to FAA interferance or control.
Check out them threads, make for an iteresting read (if you have your Insult Filter on)

RE: Why join the AMA??? PROS/CONS
 

Pros- I get a cool card in the mail made of a super thin, space age material, a magazine that always seem to have on the cover some skinny guy tossing a really old looking airplane into the air, I'm told that I have a million dollars to go kill someone with, and I get to fly at many different places across the country and participate in many different events. Also, I can sleep at night knowing that my frequencies will not be taken away by Congress and given away so that some kid can play his Nintendo, watch some porn, and download the entire Led Zepplin collection onto his cell phone while talking to his mother in Jersey.

Cons - I pay for a really neat headquarters that has really nice looking offices and big, comfortable chairs for our leaders to sit in, I also know my money is being well spent in the support of dogshows. Other cons is hearing all the warnings about safety and how we are in danger of becoming extinct if we don't spend more money that we don't have, and listening to everyone who isn't in charge of AMA badmouth AMA, hey, thats me:D

RE: Why join the AMA??? PROS/CONS
 

For $58.00 I can think of no reason not to join, considering all the benefits to the flier and the hobby. A partial listing of the benefits has already been provided, above and more will likely be provided below. I'm good with the fact there is a national home for the organization and that a portion of the dues goes to support this. If there wasn't real property, our dues would be going to pay rental some place. I joined in 1975 or 76. Over the years, I've seen the AMA take action on my behalf on many issues. I am a strong supporter! Right now, there is no other organization to be a part of. I'm glad for this as it would divide the power we have as a single organization. However, if others would want to break off and start their own, I say "Have at'r"! However, I'm staying right here! Of the magazines I regularly read, I think Model Aviation is the best.

RE: Why join the AMA??? PROS/CONS
 

On a dollar-by-dollar basis, the AMA hasn't justified the cost. They are working on better communication, so if you do join and don't see exactly what you want, be patient. Also, the AMA consist of far more than just sport fliers. You'll get the chance for insight into the many aspects of the hobby. Freeflight, control line and r/c are just the top levels! Each level will get divided into competitive or noncompetitive styles. Be prepared to have many new things to see!

And the most basic reason? It's $58 a year and you get secondary (primary if no other) insurance to cover your butt. In today's world, can you have enough?

RE: Why join the AMA??? PROS/CONS
 

O.K., did I miss this one, or are you joking?[sm=confused.gif]

RE: Why join the AMA??? PROS/CONS
 

I assumed he was talking about the NATS, etc. Just another opinion on how the money should be spent, or not. And a valid one to me. It comes down to accountability to the membership. If we don't make changes in representation, there won't be changes in how the money is spent. And... you gotta be a member to work toward changes.:D

RE: Why join the AMA??? PROS/CONS
 

Right now the old hard-drive is in a major spin, however AMA did engage in some dog-show activities. I would have to do some research to recoup the details.
However guys, when you are a tenant in an area where you are not contributing to the local property tax system, then good and favorable public relations among leader-type groups can save a lot of unfavorable expense in the local "system". It is much better to be a preferred tenant than one not socially acceptable due to no significant contributions to the local "system". How many clubs have lost flying facilities for just those types of reasons?

AMA does not contribute that much revenue to the local economy of either the city of Muncie or the county. Don't get excited about a few $$ that may be spent (INVESTED) to preserve a good opinion among those that matter. Those that take dog shows, horse shows, etc., etc. seriously, are those that have/provide a stake in the local, and even more than local, economies and "systems". Be careful which rattle snake you step on. [:-]

edit: explanation.

RE: Why join the AMA??? PROS/CONS
 

Thanks for all the replies, I think I am going to join 2007. Thanks, Reed

RE: Why join the AMA??? PROS/CONS
 

I'd suggest joining the AMA. It is $58 for a year, and you can then make an informed decision as to whether it is a good deal for you . Continue or not, at your option.

RE: Why join the AMA??? PROS/CONS
 

If you don't join the AMA and a club you can come to RCU to get bashed for asking questions, and thought of as ignorant of the hobby. Pretty good pro for joining if you ask me But if you don't the politics are removed and the hobby can be fun like it is supposed to be.

Former AMA #830129

RE: Why join the AMA??? PROS/CONS
 

Cowboy, whether or not the AMA is worth the money could (and has been) be debated to death. Provided that you aren't a jerk and I'm assuming your not, joining a club makes it all worth it. Having a place to meet fellow modellers, see their stuff and have flying buddies is worth far more than the AMA dues. Couldn't put a price on it, myself. If you can get that without joining the AMA, good for you! But then, why would you be here judging the entire AMA by a few posters on a forum?

RE: Why join the AMA??? PROS/CONS
 

Refer to the Breakthrough post. And, yes as long as there are those few members on here or anywhere else the AMA will suffer in it's numbers. It has nothing to do with me. It has everything to do with someone asking a simple honest question and being trashed by AMA members on here or at a field. It's a rampid disease here in Northern Nevada.

RE: Why join the AMA??? PROS/CONS
 

Let me get this straight. You're not even an AMA member, but you want info on getting a turbine waiver in the AMA forum. Then you start backtracking when given the information. THEN you judge everyone in this forum based on some pregidous. The only rampant disease is your ignorance. You won't even consider joining, so why are you here? The AMA may have a few problems, but the members are individuals. There are jerks anywhere you go. (seriously, there's at least one anywhere YOU go)

RE: Why join the AMA??? PROS/CONS
 

I dunno, I was a member for 3 years I think, but I don't go to sanctioned fields anymore. Closest one is 25 miles away. If you live close to a field, go check it out and see if ya might want to fly there, then get AMA if ya do. I would much rather fly at home too, but I got a place about 3 or 4 miles from here, and freeway 90 percent of the way. lol
I like using my flatbed for a flight deck/work table, and they won't let me do that at any sanctioned field anyway...