It has been a full summer of flying, early mornings when the air is cool, crisp, and calm. I am out almost every day trying to get as much flying time as possible before the Indiana winter weather sets in, and flights are few and far between. At least once a week I get my grandkids, ages 11, 9, and 2 1/2 out with me. They love to fly, and I love seeing them learn about aeromodeling and aviation. It is a thrill for me when I see them pull off a new maneuver. They are improving with each flight, even the little one, and I know they will always have these memories with them. Sometimes we take a blanket and picnic lunch and enjoy time together. I encourage you to do the same; the little ones will love it. Another bonus with kids is when I lay a plane down in the field, they will run the 50 yards to recover the aircraft. They are your flight crew!
Spending so much time outdoors makes me think of the AMA's very own outdoor Walk of Fame. Established in 2001, the AMA Walk of Fame at the International Aeromodeling Center (IAC) is designed in the shape of a large propeller and signifies the history of the hobby with honored names from all sectors of model aeronautics.
This year, we have made some improvements to the Walk of Fame and created an online experience for those who are unable to visit the IAC. With a brand-new brick look-up feature on our website and a new kiosk in the lobby of AMA's HQ, seeing and locating your brick has never been easier!
We are also so excited to share that our new online virtual Walk of Fame tour will be live on our website on November 1! This has been a big project that we've been working on for quite a while and we are so happy that you will soon be able to experience it. The new virtual tour will allow members and donors everywhere to take a tour of the walk, no matter where they live.
These projects have been a long time in the making, and we are happy that they are now out in the world for you to enjoy.
If you are interested in purchasing a brick for yourself or for a loved on, please visit our website to fill out the online form and submit your payment.
All bricks purchased will include a physical certificate with a mockup of what the brick will look like when completed and you will also be able to see it online using our new brick look up feature.
If you are not interested in purchasing a brick, but would like to make a gift to support the maintenance and up-keep of the Walk of Fame, consider giving to the Programs Fund! To make an even bigger impact, choose the give monthly option and join our Torchbearer program! New Torchbearers will receive a special welcome kit that is only for monthly donors: a Torchbearer magnet frame, a Torchbearer ceramic campfire mug, special digital content delivered to your inbox each month, and for a limited time, a mini campfire mug ornament! Offer ends December 31, 2023.
Happy Fall!
Stephen Haston
AMA Foundation Director
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