April 27 2024 Minutes

4/27/24 Minutes

Executive Council Meeting

April 27, 2024
Hybrid/AMA IAC Muncie, Indiana
8:00 a.m.

Meeting began at 8:01 a.m.

In attendance

• President Rich Hanson, Fishers IN
• EVP Randy Cameron, Pittsburg MO
• CFO Marc Guerra, Rmv CA
• District I Andy Argenio, Smithfield RI (virtual)
• District II Gary Fitch (proxy for Eric Williams; virtual; Eric Williams also attended), Schenectady NY
• District III Randy Adams, Fairfield OH
• District IV Jay Marsh (virtual), High Point NC
• District V Andrew Griffith, Jacksonville FL
• District VI Gary Himes, Kansas City MO
• District VII Randy Gibson, Lansing MI
• District VIII Lawrence Harville, Hurst TX
• District IX Brandon Koch, Mandan ND
• District X Greg Stone, Yorba Linda CA
• District XI Phil Tallman, Medical Lake WA
• Executive Director Chad Budreau
• Felix Gora, attorney
• Clarissa Poston, recording secretary

Others present

• Staff: Randy Batchelor (IT), Rachelle Haughn (Foundation donor & programs specialist), Steve Haston (Foundation director), Katie Perry (administrative assistant), Sue Ahlbrand (comptroller)
• Paul Bretsen (FNIC Insurance advisor)
• Chris Sterner (VII AVP)
• David Lindley (National Free Flight Society [NFFS])

1. Opening Business

a. Introduction of guests

b. Additions to the agenda

Rich Hanson (President) questioned if anyone had additions to the agenda. Andy Argenio (I) asked that we make time to discuss direction; Rich stated that this would be part of the Executive Session.

Chad Budreau (ED) asked to add the RC Super Show to New Business. Rich Hanson (President) obliged.

c. Recognition of those who have taken their final flight

Rich Hanson (President) questioned if there are any additions to the final flight list. Randy Gibson (VII) added Daniel Lash. Phil Tallman (XI) added Neil Madison. Paul Bretsen (FNIC Insurance) added his predecessor, Larry Johnson.

d. Consent Agenda

• 12 February: New AMA F5J Team Selection Committee
• 27 February: Approval of January 2024 Minutes

Consent agenda passed by acclamation.

2. President’s Report—Rich Hanson

Rich Hanson (President) stated that most of his time has been spent working with AMA Headquarters and doing committee work. He attended the presentation of the Aviation Statesman award to Jim Richmond’s family. Rich celebrated Team USA’s successes with the F1D team who competed in Romania in March. He further stated that he met with staff and had various meetings regarding his goal of increasing paid membership. He stated that this will be discussed further in Old Business. Rich attended the Toledo Swap Meet and that it was well-attended.

3. Executive VP Report—Randy Cameron

Randy Cameron (EVP) stated that he’s spent a lot of time scoring Flying Site Improvement Grants. He also attended the Toledo Swap Expo.

4. CFO Report—Marc Guerra

Rich Hanson (President) introduced Marc Guerra, AMA’s new Chief Financial Officer (CFO).

Marc Guerra (CFO) stated that he’s been orientating himself since February, and he thanked Chad Budreau (ED) and Sue Ahlbrand (staff) for their help. He stated that the Sue is making great strides, our reserves are being well managed, and soon AMA will begin our internal audit. Marc stated that he’ll be communicating with our internal auditors soon.

5. Executive Director Report—Chad Budreau

Chad Budreau (ED) thanked Sue Ahlbrand (staff) for modernizing AMA’s accounting and reports. In terms of membership revenue, Chad stated that AMA is at 25%, which is where it should be for the first-quarter.

Chad Budreau (ED) stated that, in the last meeting, the Council approved plans to use volunteers to welcome new members to AMA through a phone call. Chad thanked the districts that have been able to implement this so far. Chad stated that Kenny Cassidy (staff) is implementing a data-based approach to improve retention.

Chad Budreau (ED) stated that AMA is working more closely with the education departments within the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association, the Air & Space Forces Association, Civil Air Patrol, etc. Chad stated that AMA’s education team is getting in front of a lot more people and larger organizations. Greg Stone (X) stated that we’re building a better structure.

Chad Budreau (ED) noted the concrete is poured for the site four pavilions and the commissioner will soon approve work to resume. Chad thanked Mike Barbee (member) for his donations. Chad further stated AMA currently has two bids for IAC improvements on repairing our runways.

Chad Budreau (ED) stated that staff honored the EC’s directive to not start construction on the STEM trailer until January. In just a couple months, the trailer was completely refurbished and has already been to a handful of events to include Purdue Aviation Day.

Chad Budreau (ED) stated that Felix Gora (attorney) recently provided feedback to the Council on how to provide guidance to clubs regarding youth at events.

Chad Budreau (ED) presented the 2024 Program Of Work to the Council. He mentioned that the solar eclipse event was completed, we’re getting bids for IAC improvements, we launched the Wing Trailer, the National Fun Fly is coming along, and we’re overhauling how we do accounting. He further noted plans to consider how AI will help AMA as an organization.

Solar Eclipse

Chad Budreau (ED) reported on the solar eclipse event that was held at AMA’s IAC. About 1,300 guests attended and 782 toured the museum. We had information booths, the SIM trailer, flight demos, buddy boxing, and emcees – everyone learned more about the hobby. Rich Hanson (President) stated that he was impressed with how AMA staff handled the event, including when the city of Muncie did not provide food trucks staff improvised by providing guests with food.

Offices and Conference Rooms

Chad Budreau (ED) stated that AMA is working with Ball State University’s interior design students to improve workflow and create efficiencies with office spaces. He shared an old blueprint of AMA HQ, discussed creating more common spaces for staff collaboration.

Andy Argenio (I) asked who oversees the trailer’s scheduling; Chad stated that Mark Benson (staff) is in charge of the schedule in consultation with Google Wing. Andy stated that he thinks the EC should be involved in the scheduling of the trailer. Randy Cameron (EVP) said Andy can recommend events to Mark. Rich Hanson (President) stated that Mark will make it work to the best of his abilities, but isn’t sure that sending the trailer far away is viable. Brandon Koch (IX) stated that he saw the trailer yesterday and that it looks great.

Gary Fitch (proxy for II) stated that Eric Williams (II) wants to let everyone know that District II is working toward making phone calls to new members and making follow-ups.

Chad Budreau (ED) stated that the 2023 annual report will be done soon. We got a lot accomplished in terms of administrative work and launching new programs.

Chad Budreau (ED) reminded the Council that the National Model Aviation Museum has a new roof, the Foundation secured a grant for exterior beautification, and the museum acquired new exhibits including a table saw to mass produce toy model planes designed by Wilber Wright.

6. Government Relations

Chad Budreau (ED) shared updates on Tyler Dobbs’ (staff) behalf. Chad stated that there was a push for Congress to pass FAA Reauthorization legislation. He stated that if Congress doesn’t get something passed soon it is unlikely that anything will be passed until after the elections. Chad reminded the EC of the differences between the House and Senate bills as they address AMA’s concerns over altitude, LMAs, education, and Remote ID. Chad then discussed the counter-UAS (c-UAS) ARC. Some of the summaries that came out of that are as follows: geofencing was deemed out of scope, the FAA should help pay for the Remote ID modules, a risk analysis needs to be conducted, a TSA-Precheck-like system should be implemented to assist with telling friend from foe, and “no fly zones” are not a viable solution. Chad asked the Council to continue help educate their district clubs and members about regulations and Remote ID.

Rich Hanson (President) stated we told membership that our goal was to continue flying model aircraft as we always have. We pledged that we would take the administrative requirements off the shoulders of the members and shoulder it ourselves, and Rich believes we’ve done that. We sued the FAA; that lingered for a few years prior to the Reauthorization bill coming out. We’re kind of getting to the end of the regulatory process as things are starting to get solidified. Rich stated that we need to go to membership and say, “Here is the way that we need to fly model aircraft going forward.”

7. NAA Report

Amy Spowart (NAA) was unable to attend the meeting, but she sent Chad Budreau (ED) an NAA report to share with the Council. The following report was shared by Chad on Amy’s behalf:

1. Nominations are now open for the FAI Awards. Please see NAA’s social media for details or contact us for more information.
2. The Collier Trophy will be presented to the remarkable OSIRIS-Rex team on June 13. This mission, a testament to human ingenuity, successfully collected samples from the surface of an asteroid and delivered them back to earth … all remotely. We would be honored to have you join us in celebrating this extraordinary achievement!
3. Presenting the Statesman of Aviation Award to Jim Richmond’s family was an honor. I am grateful to Rich [Hanson (President)] for joining me. The event was moving, and we are thankful for the time spent in West Baden—a beautiful part of the world!
4. Please continue to share events with us on our channels, and feel free to invite me to any AMA fly-ins, etc. I would like to attend as many as I can.
5. The quarterly ASO meetings are informative and collaborative. We will continue to share these opportunities for ASOs to engage on items of interest to them. It’s a unique group, and this community of support is welcomed and a great opportunity to share information.

David Lindley (NFFS) thanked AMA and NAA for coming out and representing at Jim Richmond’s memorial event; he stated that Jim’s family really appreciated the show of support.

8. Committee Reports

a. Marketing & Membership

Chad Budreau (ED) provided a quick update on the Marketing & Membership Committee on behalf of Eric Williams (II). Chad discussed AMA’s North Star Metric being membership focused.

Gary Fitch (proxy for II) stated that Eric Williams (II) stated that there are discussions revolving around increasing membership and that the Marketing & Membership Committee should also be involved in those discussions. Rich stated that he shared updates to the EC and to the committee. On Eric’s behalf, Gary emphasized that he just wants to ensure that the Marketing & Membership Committee is involved in all the created initiatives.

Eric Williams (II) asked Chad Budreau (ED) to read aloud the message that he sent in the Zoom chat. The message was as follows: “Membership acquisition is a holistic activity. It cannot be well accomplished by uncoordinated district activities. There seems to be efforts or significant discussions that the Membership & Marketing Committee is not aware of or not in the loop as much as it should be. Please keep the Membership & Marketing Committee apprised of all efforts and discussions.” Eric emphasized that he wants everyone to be on the same team and communicate efforts as such, ensuring that the Membership & Marketing Committee is in the loop. Rich Hanson (President) stated that, to this point, he doesn’t think that anything has not been communicated.

b. Scholarship Committee

Greg Stone (X) named the recipients of various grants and scholarships. The 2024 grant and scholarship winners, in addition to their awards, are as follows:

• Leo Nordell (District I), $8,000 Charles H. Grant (CHG) Award and $5,000 Telford Award
• Anat Goldstein (District X), $8,000 CHG Award and $500 Sherrow
• Ryan Martin (District XI), $6,000 CHG Award
• Hannah Hudson (District I), $5,000 CHG Award
• Tristan Hoel (District VII), $4,500 CHG Award
• Luke Hohman (District V), $4,000 CHG Award
• Jonah Paulino (District V), $3,000 CHG Award
• Adam Rupsis (District IX), $2,500 CHG Award
• Greyson Pritchett (District VI), $500 Cooper

Greg Stone (X) thanked the team responsible for evaluating the various scholarship submissions.

Motion I: Motion by Randy Cameron (EVP), seconded by Randy Gibson (VII), to approve the Scholarship Committee Report.

Motion passed: 12 yes, no, 1 absent (NAA)

c. Insurance Committee

Affiliate rates follow-up

Paul Bretsen (FNIC Insurance) stated the insurance committee was tasked to evaluate the affiliate membership program. Affiliate memberships are $49 per year. We’re learning Canadian homeowner’s policies typically exclude model aviation; therefore, we are granting affiliate members primary coverage which is not something that we provide to US members. Paul stated that we’re providing Canadians better insurance coverage than we are US residents.

Paul Bretsen (FNIC Insurance) stated that the committee investigated whether AMA was generating enough revenue on an affiliate member to offset the risk on the insurance program. It is recommended to finance the retention for loss every three to five years, therefore the committee recommended raising the affiliate membership cost to $200. Phil Tallman (XI) asked how many of the 500 members mentioned earlier were Canadian. Chad Budreau (ED) estimated about 350. Phil asked if other countries do the same thing as Canada, wondering if we are penalizing someone from Europe coming in as an affiliate member even though their country is primary. Brandon Koch (IX) questioned whether or not it would matter if they were primary. Greg Stone (X) stated that we don’t even have the financial exposure for secondary.

Rich Hanson (President) stated that he would hate to see the affiliate membership rate raised for those who are just coming here for one event. Brandon Koch (IX) and Paul Bretsen (FNIC Insurance) discussed whether Canada is included in the coverage. Greg Stone (X) stated that we bear the financial burden. Randy Adams (III) and Paul discussed how coverage affects snowbirds who live in the US for a couple months.

Rich Hanson (President) asked if AMA should only offer affiliate rates for single events and not an extended period of time. Brandon Koch (IX), Randy Gibson (VII), and Lawrence Harville (VIII) stated that there are a lot of people who cross the borders on a regular basis for fun-flys. Phil Tallman (XI) stated that ‘snowbirds’ using the affiliate program do so because it’s cheaper raising the cost will not fix anything, it will just move the problem. Rich expressed concerns about raising the rate and suggested redesigning the program to provide insurance for those coming over for just one event. Paul Bretsen (FNIC Insurance) and Chad Budreau (ED) noted those suggestions were considered by the committee but are not recommended as they require a lot of logistical work for just a couple hundred members. For example AMA would have to update the bylaws, rebuild the join/renew portal, add new categories to the membership database, change member applications, renegotiate our insurance plans, and more. Brandon asked if Canadians could get a rider for their insurance to cover; Paul replied and stated that he would be surprised if a Canadian can pick up a rider, as anything in the US would be cheaper for them. Greg Stone (X) mentioned the idea of tightening up the affiliate membership to a smaller timeframe that’s more appropriate to the event timeframe.

David Lindley (NFFS) stated that there are no Indoor or Outdoor Free Flight (FF) sites in Canada; many FFers come to the US to compete. AMA must cover risks, but he cautions making the rate too high. He’s concerned that too high of a price will dampen the spirit of fliers.

Rich Hanson (President) had the Council do an unofficial, non-binding survey, looking to provide a recommendation for the committee on how to proceed. The non-binding survey favored raising the price, but not as high as $200. Lawrence Harville (VIII) recommended talking to membership prior to officially voting on the matter, just to get an idea of how they think the price increase would be received. Rich suggested raising the cost of affiliates to $85. Other council members expressed concerns that affiliates receive primary coverage by AMA and the rate should be more than $85. Rich tabled the topic to be discussed later in the meeting.

d. Foundation

Steve Haston (staff) credited Rachelle Haughn (staff), Austin Perlee (staff), and the Creative team for their work on the Foundation report. Provided in the report was a review of the Foundation’s work in 2023, money pledged, fundraising amounts, and an overview of the grants.

Andy Argenio (I) stated that 70% of the people who apply for Flying Site Improvement Grants (FSIG) get denied, and he’s concerned that this discourages others from applying. He doesn’t like the percentage and is wondering if people will avoid reapplying each time that they are denied. Steve Haston (staff) acknowledged the concern. The Foundation follows the formula and funding as directed and approved by the EC.

Steve Haston (staff) stated that the Foundation is starting to identify key performance indicators. One of the Foundation’s goals was to increase new content on the Foundation’s website and social media pages; a new Foundation Facebook page has been added and has continued growth. Steve then presented two new Planesmen-funded scholarships, one for engineering students and another for aircraft mechanics, both of which go live October 1. Improvements to the Walk of Fame include new bricks, limestone repairs, and an updated 360 virtual tour.

Rachelle Haughn (staff) stated that we had over 100 applicants for the FSIG and 29 projects will be funded. The total awarded amount is $57,040.59 which included a $6,776.59 donation from the Foundation. The club applicants indicated they plan to spend $1,158,792.19 in site improvements total. Lawrence Harville (VIII) and Randy Gibson (VII) suggested changing the funding structure for FSIG to help more clubs. Andy Argenio (I) stated that the cost of fabric runways is a great method to get our clubs new members. Steve Haston (staff) stated that the maximum dollar amount was set by the Council in a previous EC meeting which is to cover 25% of the club’s flying site improvement project, up to $3,000. Rachelle stated that several of the approved projects were five-figure projects, so many received $3,000. Rich stated that the issue can be taken back to the EC, though he is reluctant to decrease the amount awarded.

Gary Fitch (proxy for II) stated in the past grant recipients couldn’t apply again for three years; he recommended five years. Randy Cameron (EVP) stated that this rule was removed by the EC, but he thinks it needs to be reinstated. Brandon Koch (IX) agreed. Randy stated that a meeting will be held soon with Foundation staff to discuss how to tackle FSIG grants in the future.

Rachelle Haughn (staff) shared updates on the Take off And Grow (TAG) grants. All of the clubs that applied and met the guidelines received the grant with $18,000 total being awarded. With a budget of $20,000, it is recommended the remaining $2,000 be used for FSIG. Rich Hanson (President) questioned if we have any feedback regarding how many members each TAG event brings. Rachelle stated that applicants are required to submit a report after their event occurs, but they aren’t required to provide us with a number of new members. Rich suggested we need a mechanism to track new members from these events. Steve Haston (staff) agreed.

Eric Williams (II) and Randy Cameron (EVP) stated that the budget should have been $22,000, as opposed to $20,000. Chad Budreau (ED) stated he will investigate and correct.

Motion II: Motion by Greg Stone (X), seconded by Phil Tallman (XI), to approve the Flying Site Improvement Grant funding report.

Motion passed: 12 yes, no, 1 absent (NAA)

Motion III: Motion by Greg Stone (X), seconded by Lawrence Harville (VIII), to approve the Take off And Grow funding report.

Motion passed: 12 yes, no, 1 absent (NAA)

New Board Member
Steve Haston (staff) stated that April Conner (staff) has been appointed as a Foundation Board member. On behalf of Rusty Kennedy (Foundation Chair), Steve asked that the council vote for April to be approved as a Board member.

Gary Fitch (proxy for II) read a letter from Eric Williams (II). Eric recognizes April’s qualifications, but has concerns about appointing any AMA staff member to the Foundation Board. Andy Argenio (I) and Randy Gibson (VII) agreed. Steve Haston (staff) and Rachelle Haughn (staff) stated that April has decades of experience with AMA, great credibility with other organizations in the community, and extensive knowledge of the members. Chad Budreau (ED) added that April has previous board experience. Phil Tallman (XI) stated that if any AMA employee was able to serve on staff and the Foundation Board, April would be the one to do it. Rich Hanson (President) also supported April doesn’t see a conflict of interest. Marc Guerra (CFO) added that Conflict of Interest statements signed by the board also resolve most concerns.

Motion IV: Motion by Randy Gibson (VII), seconded by Andy Argenio (I), to table the discussion related to the appointment of a new member to the Foundation Board.

Motion passed: 12 yes, no, 1 absent (NAA)

e. PADCOM & Foundation

Rachelle Haughn (staff) stated that AMA HQ and the IAC need to be more of a destination for members with a prominent sculpture to signify entry into AMA. She suggested 6-foot diameter, bronze globe with model planes, a granite base, and a walkway. She stated that funding would be provided by donors and grants. Steve Haston (staff) clarified that the Foundation is not asking for funding from the Council; the Foundation is asking for approval to proceed.

Randy Cameron (EVP) questioned if the aircraft could include airliners should a corporate donor contribute. Rachelle Haughn (staff) agreed. Andy Argenio (I) suggested that larger donations should receive larger airplanes to attach to the globe. Randy Gibson (VII) questioned the value for those who live farther than 4 hours away. Rachelle stated that we can film something that’s interactive, similar to the digitalized Walk of Fame. Rich Hanson’s (President) main concern is that he doesn’t want to take fundraising efforts away from more pertinent issues.

Eric Williams (II) stated that we need an overhead welcome sign, much like Triple Tree and Oshkosh. He stated that those signs are very impressive. Austin Perlee (staff) stated that the globe conversation emerged from donors wanting to donate more than a brick but less than naming rights. He stated that this donation opportunity will fill the middle gap of donors. Rich Hanson (President) tasked PADCOM and the Foundation to further investigate the issue.

Executive Session/Lunch

After lunch, Andrew Griffith (V) and Rich Hanson (President) presented Frank Kagele (member) with a 2023 Model Aviation Hall of Fame induction. Frank’s family was also in attendance. During this presentation, Rich introduced Frank to the Council. He explained that Frank was instrumental in the production and development of proportional RC systems, helping to skyrocket the hobby. Rich congratulated Frank on behalf of AMA for being inducted into the Hall of Fame. Frank reminisced on his journey of building radios with Gordon Larson, his partner, who he described as being a very smart, wonderful person.

Committee Reports Continued

PADCOM & Foundation Continued

Funding and Capital Campaign Options

Steve Haston (staff) presented the Foundation’s capital campaign timeline. In Q4 of 2023, the EC approved a 4-year Foundation strategic plan. He stated that the Foundation operates with a three-person staff; manages no less than 24 programs at any given time; and researches and explores ways to grow AMA funds, inspire donors, and create partnerships.

Steve Haston (staff) stated that the current financial market, according to AMA’s Merrill advisor, is strong. Steve then stated that the Foundation conducted a wealth assessment using WealthEngine to look at the statistics of donors. Members have expressed interest in a capital campaign. Additional Foundation assessments validated that timing for a capital campaign is right. Because of those reasons, the Foundation believes that members have the capacity and interest to support any of the following: renovate the IAC, grow the endowment by an additional $2.5 million, build a new National Model Aviation Museum, build a national indoor flying center, and/or create a learning management system.

Randy Cameron (EVP) asked for clarification about the museum. Steve Haston (staff) believes donors and members have the capacity to support a new, redesigned museum. Rachelle Haughn (staff) stated that the endowment would support the upkeep as well.

Steve Haston (staff) provided a comprehensive business plan for the five-year campaign. This plan involves donor identification and engagement, fundraising partnerships, corporate sponsorships, naming rights, grants, special events, and marketing campaigns. Rachelle Haughn (staff) discussed marketing efforts to support the campaign.

Austin Perlee (staff) stated we need a consultant and administrator to manage the campaign. There could be additional staffing needs as well depending on the size of the campaign.

Steve Haston (staff) stated that Foundation’s ask is $90,000 to get the campaign off of the ground and moving. He further stated that Foundation would need Board support to fund one additional Foundation employee by Q1 of 2025. Greg Stone (X) asked if the endowment can fund FSIG. Steve stated that the unrestricted funds from the endowment may be able to do so. Andy Argenio (I) questioned if the capital campaign will grow membership. Steve stated that other organizations have experienced membership growth with similar programs. Randy Gibson (VII) and Andy expressed concerns about investing into AMA HQ and stated that some funding should be going toward the districts. Steve stated there are various people who have never been to AMA HQ, but they still donate on a consistent basis. Randy suggested we should support our clubs through more FSIG and TAG grants. Rachelle Haughn (staff) added that AMA’s vision is for the international aeromodeling center to be the premier flying site. Andy stated that there needs to be more research with members. Steve reiterated the research and data conducted by the Foundation to lead to these recommendations. Rachelle stated that Foundation is in constant communication with members; the consultant hired for the campaign would also do research into what projects would be most beneficial based on member feedback.

Rich Hanson (President) stated that the Foundation clearly emphasized that we have the ability to raise money. He supports the endowment, which is the primary reason that the Foundation was created in 2013. He further stated that, if we need a consultant to help determine where the membership feels that we can best spend that money, he would like the Foundation to bring back more solidified information about what that would require. Chad Budreau (ED) stated that we need to give hiring a consultant meaningful consideration, as past consultants have been discredited. Steve Haston (staff) suggested the EC to form a committee to work with the Foundation to identify exactly what are the EC’s goals. Rich Hanson (President) stated that he’ll think on the Foundation’s request.

f. IAC Improvement

Chad Budreau (ED) stated that lots of ideas for IAC improvements were shared with the Council and it was determined to focus on Site 1, Site 3, and the CL areas. Staff have secured two bids so far, with the intent to get more. All runways are beyond end of life and will need completely rebuilt which could six figure expenses for each site. Randy Gibson (VII) and Chad discussed itemizing the bids to help the EC in the decision-making process. David Lindley (NFFS) and Chad discussed the need for temporary repairs with the Control Circles. David advised the EC to consider site usage and data when determining where to invest in IAC repairs and upkeep.

Chad Budreau (ED) stated that AMA has rental properties, one of the rentals built in 190 needs extensive repairs beyond the value of the home. PADCOM is investigating the matter but will likely recommend the EC not invest in the home. Brandon Koch (IX) questioned if AMA should consider being landlords at all. If the property is to be torn down, Rich Hanson (President) stated that the Council needs to make a decision on the future use of that property.

g. Insurance Committee

The general consensus is that AMA needs to maintain the affiliate program as written but increase the rate between $125-$200. It was noted there is no recommendation to increase other membership rates, only affiliates since AMA insurance is likely primary. Paul Bretsen (FNIC Insurance) shared the formula used to determine rate which included accounting for loss every three to five years. Randy Cameron (EVP) suggested $165 but Brandon Koch (IX) felt that was too high. Lawrence Harville (VIII) questioned if this would be applicable to members in Mexico; he was told yes. Phil Tallman (XI) stated that he thinks the biggest numbers will come from ‘snowbirds.’ Rich Hanson (President) expressed concerns about raising the rate that dramatically. Gary Fitch (proxy for II) expressed concerns that if we increase the rate too much, we may not retain all 500 affiliate members. Greg Stone (X) and others ultimately recommended that AMA charge $125.

Motion V: Motion by Randy Gibson (VII), seconded by Gary Himes (VI), to raise the affiliate membership rate to $125 per year, effective July 1, 2024.

Motion passed: 12 yes, no, 1 absent (NAA)

h. FAI Executive Committee

Division of Responsibilities

Rich Hanson (President) stated that the Special Interest Group (SIG)/event organizers are responsible for hosting a World Championship event. The SIG conducts the planning, establishes budgets, and assembles a proposal. AMA reviews and forwards the proposal to CIAM/FAI. If approved, the SIG is responsible for organizing and conducting the event with administrative help from AMA such as administering FAI paperwork. Over the years, there have been questions about the division of responsibilities.

Chad Budreau (ED) shared a document created by the FAI Executive Committee and staff to clarify the duties and responsibilities of the event organizer/SIG and AMA. The EC gave their support for the document. Rich Hanson (President) stated if additional accommodations are to be considered, the event organizer must include that in the proposal stage.

i. SIG Committee

Rich Hanson (President) stated that the head of the SIG Committee is Randy Gibson (VII). David Lindley (NFFS) offered to co-chair the committee. Randy’s goal is to ensure that everyone is up to date and compliant. Randy stated that he’ll need to “clean up the house” prior to establishing new rules and regulations. He noted that IRCHA has past-due payments to AMA and should have their SIG status suspended. Rich stated that the Council needs to vote on record to give Randy the authority to suspend SIGs.

Motion VI: Motion by Randy Cameron (EVP), seconded by Brandon Koch (IX), to give Randy Gibson (VII), SIG Committee Chair, the authority to both seek recovery of accounts receivable from IRCHA and suspend if necessary.

Motion passed: 11 yes, no, 2 absent (NAA, II)

9. Old Business

a. Unpaid Life Memberships

Rich Hanson (President) stated that there was a member who stopped making payments on their Life membership. Chad Budreau (ED) stated that staff contacted the member many times to include via phone, email, and certified mail but receive no response. Randy Gibson (VII) stated that the member owes roughly $1,300. Rich suggested that AMA eats the loss, as we’ve let the issue go on for so long and the member consistently contributes to the hobby and AMA. Chad would like something on record to give staff clear direction as to how to proceed. The final decision was that the member will remain a Life member and AMA will eat the cost of their unpaid membership fees. Randy Adams (III) questioned if we have something in place to prohibit this from happening again. Chad confirmed that early as ED the EC approved updates to the LIFE membership process created by Angie Martin (staff) and him to reduce these types of issues.

b. Membership Acquisition

Rich Hanson (President) brought up how, in the last EC meeting, he voiced wanting to create an initiative regarding member acquisition. He stated that membership acquisition, flying site acquisition, and charter club relationships are the top three goals of the organization.

Chad Budreau (ED) stated that for the past year he’s been researching trends with AMA membership. He presented a chart to the Council depicting paying membership trends over the past 60 years. AMA had huge membership growth between 196 and 199. After 199, AMA had a few growth surges, but generally lost members. The past five years AMA’s membership has been generally flat. Chad compared the chart against census data of the number of hobby shops, industry trends such as the growth of RC models, and AMA milestones to include the traveling Nats and membership rate increases. Chad identified some correlations to account for some of the growth and decline. Randy Adams (III) stated suggested AMA compare membership trends with the number of chartered clubs. Brandon Koch (IX) stated that that data could go both ways, as it would be hard to determine whether or not membership grew because more chartered clubs were created or if more chartered clubs were created because of growing membership. Chad stated he tried to secure 60 years of club data, but AMA did not maintain historical records about clubs and flying sites. Rich Hanson (President) agreed that proportional radios helped with AMA’s surge in the 196s and 197s. He thinks that the first dip in membership in the 199s could be attributed to Sport Flyers Association (SFA). Randy Adams thinks a national lack of interest in aviation and aerospace may be attributed to membership declines.

Rich Hanson (President) questioned if AMA is a supporting organization or an organization that pushes the hobby forward. He challenged EC members to think of where AMA fits. Chad Budreau (ED) believes AMA’s mission is to protect, preserve, and advance the hobby and are not just serve as administrators.

David Lindley (NFFS) stated that his goal with every new member that NFFS gets is to connect them with people who can become their fellowship. Brandon Koch (IX) supported David by stating that he would not partake in the hobby if he didn’t have his friends to fly with. Rich stated that he agrees, but he emphasized that not everyone likes to fly in groups. Chad noted there is a generational and shift in which there is less societal interest in clubs, fraternal organizations, and service groups. Rich stated that he’ll leave this topic as food for thought.

10. New Business

a. Awards

Rich Hanson (President) stated that AMA should consider a more formal nomination process for EC awards such as the AMA Fellowship Award. Previously council members had to write a dissertation regarding why someone was worthy of an award. Lawrence Harville (VIII) stated that it could potentially be put into the magazine, making everyone aware of the award recipients. Brandon Koch (IX) suggested an award spotlight in the magazine.

b. RC Super Show

Chad Budreau (ED) noted that the event organizers of the California RC Super Show expressed interest in partnering with AMA more for the annual event. The show attracts tens of thousands of people interested in recreational activities from camping, off-roading, to modeling. AMA was asked to lead the modeling component of the show to include overseeing all surface and air activities. Chad and Greg Stone (X) noted this is an opportunity for AMA to promote the hobby to people looking for recreational activities and better engage our members west of the Rockies.

Rich Hanson (President) questioned how this is different from what AMA does in Toledo and Perry. Randy Cameron (EVP) clarified that those events are just swap meets and this one is not. Chad Budreau (ED) added that AMA would also have more decision-making authority in planning and site activities. Randy C asked about budgets, Chad noted that a couple hundred hours of staff time will be needed to help with planning. AMA already funds a couple staff to attend the show each year, we may need to earmark more funds to support additional staff or volunteer travel. Otherwise, show expenses are incurred by the event organizer such as rent, tickets, and marketing. Rich Hanson (President) stated that AMA should plan to attend next year and budget for it accordingly.

11. Awards

Fellowship Awards

Randy Cameron (EVP) nominated [name withheld until presentation of award] for the Fellowship Award.

Motion VII: Motion by Randy Cameron (EVP), seconded by Andrew Griffith (V), to award [name withheld until presentation of award] an AMA Fellowship Award.

Motion passed: 10 yes, no, 3 absent (NAA, II, VIII)

Greg Stone (X) nominated [name withheld until presentation of award] for the Fellowship Award.

Motion VIII: Motion by Greg Stone (X), seconded by Phil Tallman (XI), to award [name withheld until presentation of award] an AMA Fellowship Award.

Motion passed: 10 yes, no, 3 absent (NAA, II, VIII)

Motion IX: Andrew Griffith (V) seconded by Randy Cameron (EVP) to award [name withheld until presentation of award] an AMA Fellowship Award.

Motion passed: 10 yes, no, 3 absent

Distinguished Service Awards

Randy Adams (III) nominated [name withheld until presentation of award] for Distinguished Service Awards.

Passed by acclimation.

Meeting adjourned at 5:11 p.m.

Release Date

Mon, 06/17/2024 - 08:43