Dear Editor:
My husband has been building and flying radio-controlled aircraft as a member of the Jefferson City Radio Control Club for about 31 years. Many people don't have a real appreciation for what is involved in being a true RC hobbyist. There are countless hours of research, and building along with adjustments and modifications to ensure that the first and every flight will be safe and successful.
Over the years, the JCRC Club has flown for and provided training for Boy Scouts, school groups and Civil Air Patrol cadets. They've held the annual float fly at Binder Lake to benefit the Disabled American Veterans and, as many of you will recall, the RC Extravaganza held at the local airport for many years.
Numerous area children and young adults have taken up the hobby and been inspired to seek careers in civil and military aviation fields. As an example, one club member's son, who became involved with model aircraft at a very young age is currently the captain of a U.S. Navy aircraft carrier.
As a retired educator with 30-plus years of experience I feel it would be a shame for the Parks and Recreation Department to not support an activity that could prove invaluable to many of our youth as it has in the past. Instead, they should grow and develop it as the important STEM program it could be.
The technology involving electric motors, various battery chemistries, electrical principles, radio and radio programming, telemetry, aircraft design and construction, aeronautics and the very latest in drone technology can all provide a foundation for any of many future careers. Perhaps a child inspired by the ever evolving technology will someday bring a company and jobs back to Jefferson City as an adult.
The hobby can also provide a year round opportunity for the entire family to learn and spend time together indoors and out as they take part in all aspects of the hobby.
My hope is that the good people at Parks and Recreation or any area organization or individual will realize the enormous value and potential that so many before have of this multifaceted hobby and provide a space for it to grow and flourish again.
Anyone interested in learning more about the hobby can contact the club at www.jcrcmo.com or the Academy of Model Aeronautics at www.modelaircraft.org.
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