We should be watching and be aware of the developments here.
--Rico
To My Fellow RC Enthusiasts,
After reading "In The Air" in the February 2011 edition of Model Aviation, I decided to write you all this letter. Please share it with your membership at your next monthly meeting.
Our world seems to become more and more paranoid with each passing day and sometimes with good reason. On page 9 of the February 2011 Model Aviation, the excerpts of a discussion between AMA Pres. Dave Matthewson and the FAA Associate Administrator for Aviation Safety, Peggy Gilligan were printed. They spoke of the proposed regulations for small Unmanned Aircraft Systems and, more importantly, its potential impact on model aviation. Before I go any further, I want it understood that the feelings and views expressed are mine alone and are not endorsed by the AMA in any way. However, please note that the expression on that woman's face says to me she couldn't care less about the views and concerns of the model aviation industry and its enthusiasts. Furthermore, if you read the article and between the lines (which I hope you have), she is saying our input will have no impact on the FAA's decisions and that we will have to comply with whatever changes are coming or find a new hobby. I applaud Dave Matthewson for being able to maintain his professionalism during this interview.
My message to all RC enthusiasts is the same as it's always been. The AMA is putting up the good fight to protect our hobby but we also must do our part in this battle. Walt Kelly once said "We have seen the enemy and he is us"! In other words, we are our own worst enemies. We are all human and everyone makes mistakes but to blatantly circumvent your club rules and the rules of the AMA seems like attempted suicide to me. This also impedes the AMA's ability to fight the good fight and helps the other side in its efforts to point fingers. What's my point? Follow the rules and regulations of your club and the AMA to the letter. The sharks are circling so don't give them anything to bite at! Let's band together, do the right thing, and protect our hobby! As I said before, these are my views alone and I hope you all agree. Anyone who doesn't should probably do two things; get an eye exam and find a new hobby as this one is under attack and will be gone before too long if we don't do something about it right now. In the words of Klatu, "We Will Be Waiting For Your Answer".
If nothing more, thank you for reading this letter.
Sincerely yours,
Ken Karpinski Sr.
Asst. Vice Pres.
Dist. III
