The signs of spring are here with the arrival of April, and with that, the start of our wonderful flying season. District VII members, as you read this, I am sure that the blood was flowing earlier when many of us had the opportunity to enjoy 60° temperatures, no matter what Punxsutawney Phil predicted, but the animal got his revenge with snows and arctic cold returning for a time. I know it invigorated me to prepare my models for the season. As I wrote this, I was refreshing a trainer for community invitational events.
The excitement is also apparent within the clubs that I have already had an occasion to visit within the district, as well as having the opportunity to attend the Twin Cities Radio Controllers 49th Annual Auction and the Milwaukee R/C Association’s meeting. I am looking forward to seeing district members and, judging by the announcements that I have received from throughout the district, another exciting season will be at hand.
First up is a shout-out to Greg Staeuble, the president of the United Flying Organization of Highland, Michigan. Greg understands sharing the passion of modeling with others. He opened his garage to invite people to race micro drones.
Greg created a Halloween theme-decorated Tiny Whoop House. Thank you, Greg, for sending pictures. I have to say that is incredibly generous of you to invite people to enjoy an aspect of the hobby. I am sure this will provide ideas for others during the next offseason.
We often have an opportunity in front of us, but sometimes we do not see it. Clubs occasionally find themselves in need of a new flying site or maybe a second one for specific types of aircraft. I attended a club banquet, and the club invited the local community airport manager to the dinner. The club has been involved with static displays in partnership with the local EAA chapter.
After a presentation by the manager, there were questions and follow-up discussions. This led to the realization that the manager would enjoy seeing the models fly at the airport. Before realizing it, a second site became available. Another lesson from this is to be involved in the community. Be seen, be a volunteer, and be of help to those who might not be as fortunate.
To that, I want to share a personal thought. By the time you read this column, you would have heard of the passing of Tim Jesky. Tim, his wife, Linda, and his sons, Andrew and Joseph, became almost like my second family. Tim preceded me as the AMA District VII vice president, and we shared times together. He lived nearby and I often stopped to visit, which generally meant that we were going to one of the barbecue restaurants in Monroe, Michigan. We both loved a great feed.
When I would come by his house, Linda was patient because she knew we were going to talk and talk and talk. The Jeskys always opened their home to modelers near and far. Tim always had a smile and lived a legacy of service. He was a good samaritan, providing a listening ear and making sure that people felt included. Tim was an example for us to follow and to accept the challenge of service.
I will close out this month’s column with a thank-you to the Jesky family for your kindness and the love that you have showed to us all. Thank you for sharing the passion.