A Moment of Remembrance....

Each generation has their own historical event to remember. Some of you remember what you were doing the day Pearl Harbor was bombed. Some remember the day that President Kennedy was shot. Some remember the day the Challenger exploded, and we all remember the horrific events of 9/11.

And then there was Columbia…Seven brave men and women gave their lives on February 1, 2003, doing something they loved, and believed strongly in doing. Their jobs, and the promise of space, filled their every waking moment, and their dreams. Our greatest memorial to them will be the continuance of the space program. We must stretch the frontiers of human knowledge for the entire planet.

I will always remember where I was the day when we lost Columbia. I was in DeLand, Florida at the IMAA Winter Rally of the Giants. The weather was wonderful. It was a great event. As in every catastrophe, it made me think about what I wanted out of life, and why I’m involved as I am with the IMAA. I’m too young to remember President Kennedy’s famous speech in which he stated, “Ask not what your country can do for you, but ask what you can do for your country”. I didn’t get involved in the IMAA because of the magazine or because I expected something from this club. I joined the IMAA because I enjoy the people.

The IMAA is not the President, the Vice President, or the Board of Directors. The IMAA is the members. It is a group of people who have come together because they love Giant Scale Aircraft. They trade ideas. They help each other pick up the pieces. They enjoy being around each other. Every member is just as responsible for the promotion of the IMAA to his or her friends who fly Giant Scale. Remember that this is not my organization. This is OUR organization. Through strength we will grow, and remain the leaders in the Giant Scale community.

There is a growing sentiment among the members that Event Directors should be allowed to give special recognition to pilots for excellence (or even the best crash). The recognition would not be based upon a timed or skilled event based upon predetermined criteria. The recognition would be based upon the popular vote of the participants, IMAA club members or spectators. The Board members need your input on this subject. Please let your District Director know your feelings today. Don’t remain quiet. Help us build, and strengthen your organization. Communicate your ideas to your District Director. This organization will be as good as you make it too! I had a great time at the Winter Rally of Giants and the Club put on a great event. I was happy to see such a wonderful turnout. I hope to see you all in Toledo. Until next time Happy Building.