Today's Message Index:
----------------------
1. 03:48 AM - Re: Re: An open letter to the RPA (cjpilot710@aol.com)
2. 05:00 AM - Barry's concerns (Duncan)
3. 05:38 AM - Re:Open Letter (Cpayne)
4. 05:55 AM - Re: Re: An open letter to the RPA (Bill Geipel)
5. 05:58 AM - Re: Re:Open Letter (Bill Geipel)
6. 07:32 AM - Re: Re:Open Letter (Rico Jaeger)
7. 07:38 AM - An Open Letter to the RPA (ONTHEGOAZ@aol.com)
8. 07:55 AM - Re: An Open Letter to the RPA (Brian Lloyd)
9. 08:25 AM - Re: An Open Letter to the RPA (Bill Geipel)
10. 08:56 AM - Re: Re:Open Letter (Herb Coussons)
11. 09:11 AM - GT Housai blade sample (ALEXGTPROPELLERS)
12. 09:53 AM - Re: An open letter to the RPA (barryhancock)
13. 09:57 AM - Re: An open letter to the RPA (Brian Lloyd)
14. 10:13 AM - Re: Re: An open letter to the RPA (Brian Lloyd)
15. 10:24 AM - Re: An open letter to the RPA (Bill Geipel)
16. 10:56 AM - Re: An open letter to the RPA (Tom Elliott)
17. 12:58 PM - Part I: The RPA Idea... (Drew Blahnick)
18. 01:02 PM - Part II: What's Wrong with the Organization (Drew Blahnick)
19. 01:03 PM - Part III: moving away from cabals (Drew Blahnick)
20. 01:03 PM - Part IV : services unseen (Drew Blahnick)
Message 1
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| Subject: | Re: An open letter to the RPA |
Its the Aztec calendar.
Pappy
In a message dated 1/3/2012 2:04:49 A.M. Eastern Standard Time,
invert33@gmail.com writes:
I'm relatively new to the list, approximately 18 months. It once was a
valuable resource, listening to the wisdom of contributors who were
reasonable and rational. There has been a shift over the last 6 months or so
with
certain contributors posting what appear to be antagonistic emails which
serve no purpose except to agitate for own self gratification. It is rare
nowadays for the likes of the Coy's and other valuable members of the
community to post, given the emails below I can now see why.
Of course people are entitled to express opinion, there must be a better
way approach rather than to be a personal "gadfly". Statements like that
are simply childish.
I will be unsubscribing from the list. It would be appreciated if someone
could let me know when Brian is longer contributing and I will sign up
once again.
Sent from my iPhone
On 03/01/2012, at 3:10 PM, Brian Lloyd <_brian@lloyd.com_
(mailto:brian@lloyd.com) > wrote:
On Mon, Jan 2, 2012 at 9:01 PM, Roger Baker <_f4ffm2@roadrunner.com_
(mailto:f4ffm2@roadrunner.com) > wrote:
and I quote.........
"Has anyone asked the most basic question of all, "Does it matter?" "
Nope.
--
Brian Lloyd, WB6RQN/J79BPL
3191 Western Dr.
Cameron Park, CA 95682
_brian@lloyd.com_ (mailto:brian@lloyd.com)
+1.767.617.1365 (Dominica)
+1.916.877.5067 (USA)
==================================
ef="http://www.matronics.com/Navigator?Yak-List">http://www.matronics.com/Navigator?Yak-List
===================================
ums.matronics.com">http://forums.matronics.com ===================================
http://www.matronics.com/contribution">http://www.matronics.com/contribution
===================================
(http://www.matronics.com/Navigator?Yak-List)
(http://www.matronics.com/contribution)
Message 2
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| Subject: | Barry's concerns |
I have been a member since the first 7 ship fly-in at MTW & remain one to
this day. That said, I can see Barry's concerns are valid. We are now a
large organization that needs a restructuring. I joined to part of a group
of great people, who included me into their 'gang' even though I was not a
pilot nor owned a plane, my experience at MTW made me see that I could be a
pilot, and I came back the next year ticket in hand. Having been to several
of the recent OSH events, I don't think I would come back at all.
Here is what I see: the organization is large enough to make that one-on-one
contact difficult, we are world-wide and have members who pay they
membership and don't take part due partially to that focus on formation
flying. YAK-5xs don't particularly like straight and level, they are acro
planes and their owner, for the most part, buy them to bank & yank. We need
a presence for those pilots.
What I (& others) miss is the camaraderie that we had in the early days and
I have contemplated organizing a MTW fly-in during OSH 2012, to attempt to
recapture the 'good old days'. We as the RPA can make that happen that
small group feel in an organization of 400 or 4,000, by giving the directors
more power & money to run local events.
Can it be 'fixed'? I am not sure, I hope so.
Russ
Message 3
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Every volunteer organization goes through a life cycle, ups and downs are normal.
Early on, the Yak Club served as a common exchange of info about our airplanes
that was hard to find anywhere else. Next, the YPA focused on more of the
same but added pilot training and formation training.
The RPA expanded into sponsoring events and further training. During the 16 years
I have had my CJ, I have witnessed an acceptance within the Warbird community,
not only of our aircraft but a grudging acceptance of our flying skills and
organizational dynamics. *Most* of the other WB groups are aging and in dire
need of an infusion of youth. Our aircraft and organization fit that profile
better than any other large WB group out there.
Keep the faith, we have achieved major goals and have carved out a place for ourselves.
I believe the future goals should include supporting Airworthiness Issues
and New CJ/Yak pilot transition as well as continuing form and acro training
at regional events.
Who else is as able to be a voice for our community, if not ourselves??
Craig Payne
Message 4
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| Subject: | Re: An open letter to the RPA |
I rest my case.
Bill
On Jan 3, 2012, at 12:00 AM, Invert <invert33@gmail.com> wrote:
> I'm relatively new to the list, approximately 18 months. It once was a va
luable resource, listening to the wisdom of contributors who were reasonable
and rational. There has been a shift over the last 6 months or so with cer
tain contributors posting what appear to be antagonistic emails which serve n
o purpose except to agitate for own self gratification. It is rare nowadays
for the likes of the Coy's and other valuable members of the community to p
ost, given the emails below I can now see why.
>
> Of course people are entitled to express opinion, there must be a better w
ay approach rather than to be a personal "gadfly". Statements like that are
simply childish.
>
> I will be unsubscribing from the list. It would be appreciated if someone
could let me know when Brian is longer contributing and I will sign up once
again.
>
>
>
> Sent from my iPhone
>
> On 03/01/2012, at 3:10 PM, Brian Lloyd <brian@lloyd.com> wrote:
>
>>
>>
>> On Mon, Jan 2, 2012 at 9:01 PM, Roger Baker <f4ffm2@roadrunner.com> wrote
:
>> and I quote.........
>>
>> "Has anyone asked the most basic question of all, "Does it matter?" "
>>
>> Nope.
>>
>> --
>> Brian Lloyd, WB6RQN/J79BPL
>> 3191 Western Dr.
>> Cameron Park, CA 95682
>> brian@lloyd.com
>> +1.767.617.1365 (Dominica)
>> +1.916.877.5067 (USA)
>>
>>
>>
>> =========================
=========
>> ef="http://www.matronics.com/Navigator?Yak-List">http://www.matronics.c
om/Navigator?Yak-List
>> =========================
=========
>> ums.matronics.com">http://forums.matronics.com
>> =========================
=========
>> http://www.matronics.com/contribution">http://www.matronics.com/contribut
ion
>> =========================
=========
>>
>
>
==========================
=========
==========================
=========
==========================
=========
==========================
=========
>
Message 5
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Let's all meet on our RPA forum site and bounce around some thoughts.
Bill
On Jan 3, 2012, at 6:34 AM, Cpayne <cpayne@joimail.com> wrote:
>
> Every volunteer organization goes through a life cycle, ups and downs are normal.
Early on, the Yak Club served as a common exchange of info about our airplanes
that was hard to find anywhere else. Next, the YPA focused on more of the
same but added pilot training and formation training.
>
> The RPA expanded into sponsoring events and further training. During the 16 years
I have had my CJ, I have witnessed an acceptance within the Warbird community,
not only of our aircraft but a grudging acceptance of our flying skills
and organizational dynamics. *Most* of the other WB groups are aging and in dire
need of an infusion of youth. Our aircraft and organization fit that profile
better than any other large WB group out there.
>
> Keep the faith, we have achieved major goals and have carved out a place for
ourselves. I believe the future goals should include supporting Airworthiness
Issues and New CJ/Yak pilot transition as well as continuing form and acro training
at regional events.
>
> Who else is as able to be a voice for our community, if not ourselves??
>
> Craig Payne
>
>
>
>
Message 6
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Guys,
Like an earlier poster stated, I am one of the new names on the list.
Years before I owned a Yak, I subscribed to the list and regularly read w/
great interest the posts - which ranged from simple and light-hearted to
intensely (but professionally) debated hot topics. I even saved a number
of these that I thought (hoped) would be functionally-applied someday. It
took a lot of time, patience and money that I didn't have, but that day is
finally here. Now that I am "hands-on," MANY "real-world" questions have
arisen. Initially, before I even pondered the many plausible solutions to
some of these, I went to the Yak List - since I KNEW that's where I would
receive a wealth of answers / options from the guys whom had "been there."
Some questions were met w/ generously-donated time, knowledge and great
detail. But on others I received the "internet spanking" of a lifetime. As
a high school instructor of 20+ years experience, I know 1st hand that
there is no greater injustice that can be served to a student than making
them feel unintelligent or out-of-place for asking a question. Not only
does it NOT answer the issue tabled, it relegates the would-be learner to
a defensive, closed position - very unlikely to venture inquiry ever
again. I know I think long and hard about anything I post on the list now.
Ironically, the most helpful people (from the list) have contacted me
privately - maybe to address me specifically - but I also believe to avoid
the (probably unintentional) on-line bullying that can and does occur at
times. The internet - and specifically the Yak List - is a potentially
ultra-valuable and limitless learning tool as well as a useful mass-communi
cations device. Unfortunately, for some it is also the equivalent of
throwing rocks at the other neighborhood kids from the safety of your
parent's front door. You guys are blessed...you have the means, equipment,
experience and well-developed skills to safely operate and maintain some
exciting and exotic aircraft. I would think if you truly love and
appreciate your freedom to explore the full potential of these vehicles,
you would also want to pass on that passion and knowledge to others. I
look to you to learn - as others do. EVERYONE is good at something.
EVERYONE can teach someone something. NO ONE is born w/ this knowledge.
They learned it from SOMEONE at an earlier stage before actual application.
That's life. But how one passes ON that info can range greatly. Will you
instruct w/ compelling humility - or will you repulse w/ alienating
arrogance? Don't forget when YOU were the student. Yes - the "devil's
advocate" can raise concerns not otherwise pondered. But there's a
distinct difference between presenting "all sides" and just causing
problems. And more importantly, consider offering the same respect to all
that you would hope to receive. For lack of a better cliche', "CAN'T WE
ALL JUST GET ALONG?" :)
But seriously...your aircraft would seem a lot less important if you lost
your source of income...THAT would seem a lot less important if you lost
your health, etc. It's all a matter of perspective. Be grateful for what
you have WHILE you have it - and remember what it was like when you
didn't. And if you truly love it - SHARE it. I work hard for my few
possessions. But NOTHING means more than family, friends and my good
reputation.
This email was not an attempt to point a finger...just a humble point of
view from someone whom often finds himself looking in from the outside.
I've been blessed in many areas of life, but possessing a rich aviation
heritage has not been one of them. THANK YOU to ALL of you. In one way or
another, you've ALL taught me something - and I am grateful. I will
probably never be labeled the "sharpest pencil in the drawer." But
hopefully I will also never be labeled a**hole either. :)
I look very forward to learning much more, a continued professional
relationship and God-willing, I will fly your wing sometime this Summer...
All my very best!
Rico Jaeger
Wausau, WI.
Yak 52 / N21YK
>>> Bill Geipel <czech6@mesanetworks.net> 1/3/2012 7:56 AM >>>
Let's all meet on our RPA forum site and bounce around some thoughts.
Bill
On Jan 3, 2012, at 6:34 AM, Cpayne <cpayne@joimail.com> wrote:
>
> Every volunteer organization goes through a life cycle, ups and downs
are normal. Early on, the Yak Club served as a common exchange of info
about our airplanes that was hard to find anywhere else. Next, the YPA
focused on more of the same but added pilot training and formation
training.
>
> The RPA expanded into sponsoring events and further training. During the
16 years I have had my CJ, I have witnessed an acceptance within the
Warbird community, not only of our aircraft but a grudging acceptance of
our flying skills and organizational dynamics. *Most* of the other WB
groups are aging and in dire need of an infusion of youth. Our aircraft
and organization fit that profile better than any other large WB group out
there.
>
> Keep the faith, we have achieved major goals and have carved out a place
for ourselves. I believe the future goals should include supporting
Airworthiness Issues and New CJ/Yak pilot transition as well as continuing
form and acro training at regional events.
>
> Who else is as able to be a voice for our community, if not ourselves??
>
> Craig Payne
>
>
>
>
Message 7
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| Subject: | An Open Letter to the RPA |
Hello Everyone,
Barry's concerns are valid, most of the problems could be fixed with a
change in the structure of the RPA. Currently the National and Regional
Directors are below the President in the chain of command, the Regional directors
should receive their input from the general membership within their
respective region (IE the "Liaison") then move forward with that input to the
National Directors whom in turn direct the President (who serves at the
National Directors leisure) the path to pursue.
In the past we have enjoyed very attentive as well as organized Presidents
in office so this fatal flaw in the RPA structure remained unseen, don't
get me wrong I like Terry and believe he is trying his best but the fact of
the matter is his personal platter is or has been full. If the President
served at the "Leisure" of the National Directors they then could have then
requested he resign do to personal issues and appoint someone that had the
time available to run the organization. I believe this very subject is a
"agenda item" listed on the next BOD meeting.
As far as the Instructor/Check Pilots are concerned, the BOD receives
their collective input before acting on any issue concerning the RPA. Case in
point, the Check Pilots are concerned about having "Tactical Formation"
information in the Training manual, they believe it needs to be removed from the
Manual and can be provided somewhere else or not at all for liability
reasons. The BOD is addressing their concerns but again ultimately it's up to
the president as to what actions will be taken under the current RPA
structure.
I'm available to discuss these issues or any other issues that anyone has
within the RPA.
Regards,
Scott Andrews
Southwest Regional Director
602-705-4413
_Onthegoaz@aol.com_ (mailto:Onthegoaz@aol.com)
Message 8
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| Subject: | Re: An Open Letter to the RPA |
Since I am not currently an RPA member perhaps I should keep my mouth shut
but this was an issue I brought up long ago.
In any organization typically not more than 10% of the members are real
contributors of time and effort. It doesn't take very long to figure out
who they are. The problem with centralized organization is that it tends
to stifle the motivation to do things at a local level. Either people start
to think, "oh, they are going to take care of it up there," or they feel
left out. (I know I felt that way after the first Red Star at Castle.) So
the organization needs to allow people to accomplish things on a local
level more than on a centralized/global level. Sure you need agreement
globally but all the action is going to happen locally. Make sure you think
about that as you adjust your organization.
--
Brian Lloyd, WB6RQN/J79BPL
3191 Western Dr.
Cameron Park, CA 95682
brian@lloyd.com
+1.767.617.1365 (Dominica)
+1.916.877.5067 (USA)
Message 9
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| Subject: | Re: An Open Letter to the RPA |
Sage advice.
Bill
On Jan 3, 2012, at 8:53 AM, Brian Lloyd <brian@lloyd.com> wrote:
> Since I am not currently an RPA member perhaps I should keep my mouth shut
but this was an issue I brought up long ago.
>
> In any organization typically not more than 10% of the members are real co
ntributors of time and effort. It doesn't take very long to figure out who t
hey are. The problem with centralized organization is that it tends to stifl
e the motivation to do things at a local level. Either people start to think
, "oh, they are going to take care of it up there," or they feel left out. (
I know I felt that way after the first Red Star at Castle.) So the organizat
ion needs to allow people to accomplish things on a local level more than on
a centralized/global level. Sure you need agreement globally but all the ac
tion is going to happen locally. Make sure you think about that as you adjus
t your organization.
>
> --
> Brian Lloyd, WB6RQN/J79BPL
> 3191 Western Dr.
> Cameron Park, CA 95682
> brian@lloyd.com
> +1.767.617.1365 (Dominica)
> +1.916.877.5067 (USA)
>
>
>
==========================
=========
==========================
=========
==========================
=========
==========================
=========
>
Message 10
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Very true and very well stated. It can be disheartening to newcomers to trea
ted badly by the group. Thanks for such an effort to write this email.
Sent from DrC on the iPhone
On Jan 3, 2012, at 9:28 AM, "Rico Jaeger" <rijaeger@wausau.k12.wi.us> wrote:
> Guys,
>
> Like an earlier poster stated, I am one of the new names on the list. Year
s before I owned a Yak, I subscribed to the list and regularly read w/ great
interest the posts - which ranged from simple and light-hearted to intensel
y (but professionally) debated hot topics. I even saved a number of these th
at I thought (hoped) would be functionally-applied someday. It took a lot of
time, patience and money that I didn't have, but that day is finally here. N
ow that I am "hands-on," MANY "real-world" questions have arisen. Initially,
before I even pondered the many plausible solutions to some of these, I wen
t to the Yak List - since I KNEW that's where I would receive a wealth of an
swers / options from the guys whom had "been there." Some questions were met
w/ generously-donated time, knowledge and great detail. But on others I rec
eived the "internet spanking" of a lifetime. As a high school instructor of 2
0+ years experience, I know 1st hand that there is no greater injustice that
can be served to a student than making them feel unintelligent or out-of-pl
ace for asking a question. Not only does it NOT answer the issue tabled, it r
elegates the would-be learner to a defensive, closed position - very unlikel
y to venture inquiry ever again. I know I think long and hard about anything
I post on the list now. Ironically, the most helpful people (from the list)
have contacted me privately - maybe to address me specifically - but I also
believe to avoid the (probably unintentional) on-line bullying that can and
does occur at times. The internet - and specifically the Yak List - is a po
tentially ultra-valuable and limitless learning tool as well as a useful mas
s-communications device. Unfortunately, for some it is also the equivalent o
f throwing rocks at the other neighborhood kids from the safety of your pare
nt's front door. You guys are blessed...you have the means, equipment, exper
ience and well-developed skills to safely operate and maintain some exciting
and exotic aircraft. I would think if you truly love and appreciate your fr
eedom to explore the full potential of these vehicles, you would also want t
o pass on that passion and knowledge to others. I look to you to learn - as o
thers do. EVERYONE is good at something. EVERYONE can teach someone somethin
g. NO ONE is born w/ this knowledge. They learned it from SOMEONE at an earl
ier stage before actual application. That's life. But how one passes ON that
info can range greatly. Will you instruct w/ compelling humility - or will y
ou repulse w/ alienating arrogance? Don't forget when YOU were the student. Y
es - the "devil's advocate" can raise concerns not otherwise pondered. But t
here's a distinct difference between presenting "all sides" and just causing
problems. And more importantly, consider offering the same respect to all t
hat you would hope to receive. For lack of a better cliche', "CAN'T WE ALL J
UST GET ALONG?" :)
>
> But seriously...your aircraft would seem a lot less important if you lost y
our source of income...THAT would seem a lot less important if you lost your
health, etc. It's all a matter of perspective. Be grateful for what you hav
e WHILE you have it - and remember what it was like when you didn't. And if y
ou truly love it - SHARE it. I work hard for my few possessions. But NOTHING
means more than family, friends and my good reputation.
>
> This email was not an attempt to point a finger...just a humble point of v
iew from someone whom often finds himself looking in from the outside. I've b
een blessed in many areas of life, but possessing a rich aviation heritage h
as not been one of them. THANK YOU to ALL of you. In one way or another, you
've ALL taught me something - and I am grateful. I will probably never be la
beled the "sharpest pencil in the drawer." But hopefully I will also never b
e labeled a**hole either. :)
>
> I look very forward to learning much more, a continued professional relati
onship and God-willing, I will fly your wing sometime this Summer...
>
> All my very best!
>
> Rico Jaeger
> Wausau, WI.
> Yak 52 / N21YK
>
>
>
>
>
>
> >>> Bill Geipel <czech6@mesanetworks.net> 1/3/2012 7:56 AM >>>
>
> Let's all meet on our RPA forum site and bounce around some thoughts.
>
> Bill
>
>
>
> On Jan 3, 2012, at 6:34 AM, Cpayne <cpayne@joimail.com> wrote:
>
> >
> > Every volunteer organization goes through a life cycle, ups and downs ar
e normal. Early on, the Yak Club served as a common exchange of info about o
ur airplanes that was hard to find anywhere else. Next, the YPA focused on m
ore of the same but added pilot training and formation training.
> >
> > The RPA expanded into sponsoring events and further training. During the
16 years I have had my CJ, I have witnessed an acceptance within the Warbir
d community, not only of our aircraft but a grudging acceptance of our flyin
g skills and organizational dynamics. *Most* of the other WB groups are agin
g and in dire need of an infusion of youth. Our aircraft and organization fi
t that profile better than any other large WB group out there.
> >
> > Keep the faith, we have achieved major goals and have carved out a place
for ourselves. I believe the future goals should include supporting Airwort
hiness Issues and New CJ/Yak pilot transition as well as continuing form and
acro training at regional events.
> >
> > Who else is as able to be a voice for our community, if not ourselves??
> >
> > Craig Payne
> > ========================
http://www.matronics.c==================
======http://www.matronics.com/con==========
======
>
>
>
>
>
==========================
=========
==========================
=========
==========================
=========
==========================
=========
>
Message 11
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| Subject: | GT Housai blade sample |
HI, attached picture of V19 blade model decided to adopt on Housai engine.
98" wood/carbon made.
GT2VJ9 'll be like this but left turning and bigger in size .
Here we are working on all wood/carbon technology while the retention system is
in progress to our canadian shop.
I'll post all progress shortly.
Ciao Alex
Read this topic online here:
http://forums.matronics.com/viewtopic.php?p=362336#362336
Attachments:
http://forums.matronics.com//files/diaz_855_1_153.jpg
Message 12
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| Subject: | Re: An open letter to the RPA |
To the comment "does it matter?":
For some of you, the answer may be no, and that is certainly OK. But, to a great
many of us who want to be a part of something that serves membership, provides
"critical mass" for issues with the FAA, and has many other tangible and worthwhile
benefits, it does matter. Please don't minimize other's legitimate
concerns or desires, just because you don't share them.
Barry
--------
Barry Hancock
Worldwide Warbirds, Inc.
(877) 869-6458
www.worldwidewarbirds.com
Read this topic online here:
http://forums.matronics.com/viewtopic.php?p=362344#362344
Message 13
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| Subject: | Re: An open letter to the RPA |
On Mon, Jan 2, 2012 at 7:07 PM, Richard Hess <hess737@aol.com> wrote:
> Thanks Doc.
>
> Brian, Barry,
> I feel badly for you two because in one case it seems you are frustrated
> with not seeing things go as you envisioned. For the other, it seems you've
> either been forced out or decided to walk away. I am sincere when I say
> change comes from within.
>
First, I want to apologize to the group. The only thing I am really
interested in is helping people solve problems. OTOH, I have a hard time
just smiling, nodding my head, and walking away when I perceive someone is
acting unthinkingly. This is my problem and I am working on it. And some
people just rub me the wrong way and I seem unable to just let it go.
Again, my apologies for dumping that on the whole list.
But the entire Yak Pilots' Club/Yak Pilots' Association/Redstar Pilot's
Association has, from the beginning, had a clear bias that is exclusive
rather than inclusive. Back then it was a good ol' boys club and the
inner-circle was made up of ex-military pilots. If you hadn't flown for the
USAF or USN, well, you weren't really considered competent no matter what
you did.
I purchased a CJ6A from Yakity Yaks in 1998. Like you I was in love with
the airplane. (I have never flown another airplane with better control
harmony and I have flown a LOT of airplanes.) I learned everything I could
and then tried to help others. In fact, I got Matt Dralle to create this
list as part of that. Education was a hard-won thing too. Relatively few
people really had the knowledge and most of them weren't really talking.
Some were making their living selling and supporting the aircraft and
seemed to think that giving away assistance was cutting into their revenue
stream.
For me the whole thing came to a head with a couple of events about 10
years ago. The big one for me was the first All Red Star event at Castle
AFB. This was the first of Drew's vision for a lot of fun and involvement
for everyone. (And a good thing it was too.) I was deeply involved and did
much of the legwork for making the first ARS event happen. Drew was in LA
and flying for the airlines. When Drew was there, I was there with him.
When Drew was unavailable, I was the one dealing with vendors at Castle and
in the surrounding Atwater area. I certainly didn't do all the work but I
did a substantial amount of it.
Then the event started. The "old guard" arrived and took over. At that
point I was supposed to do what I was told, fly the hops with the FNGs that
they didn't want to fly with, and keep my mouth shut. I remember how
incensed and betrayed I felt when Drew lavished praise on these guys who
had done nothing to set up the event but arrive and lord it over everyone
else. And as I recall, at the end of the banquet where Drew gave credit to
everyone except me, it was Barry who stood up and publicly thanked me for
my work.
So, yeah, I felt excluded. I suspect some of you know how that feels as
well.
The other event was a friend who came to ARS the next year to come up to
speed on learning to fly formation. The "inner circle" took exception to
his airplane (limited instrumentation in the back seat) and told him that
they wouldn't let him fly. Since the FAA approves his airplane for flight,
and since he had been flying the airplane regularly, I think that its basic
airworthiness had been proven. So I took that as another example of the
exclusionary behavior of the "Yak Pilot's Club". (I also think that he was
partly tarred with the brush of being my friend and student.)
So, yes, I think that the RPA could probably do with a little more
inclusion and a little less of the Mount Olympus mentality. But maybe it
has changed and I am completely off base. If so, then I apologize for
dredging up old, obsolete memories.
Lastly, I want everyone to know that, if they need help with any aspect of
owning and operating their CJ6A or Yak-52, I will do my best to help. (I am
much more knowledgeable on the CJ6A than I am on the -52 but I still have a
pretty good handle on both systems and flying -52.)
--
Brian Lloyd, WB6RQN/J79BPL
3191 Western Dr.
Cameron Park, CA 95682
brian@lloyd.com
+1.767.617.1365 (Dominica)
+1.916.877.5067 (USA)
Message 14
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| Subject: | Re: An open letter to the RPA |
On Tue, Jan 3, 2012 at 9:50 AM, barryhancock <bhancock@worldwidewarbirds.com
> wrote:
> bhancock@worldwidewarbirds.com>
>
> To the comment "does it matter?":
>
> For some of you, the answer may be no, and that is certainly OK. But, to
> a great many of us who want to be a part of something that serves
> membership, provides "critical mass" for issues with the FAA, and has many
> other tangible and worthwhile benefits, it does matter. Please don't
> minimize other's legitimate concerns or desires, just because you don't
> share them.
>
And I think that people misunderstood my, "nope," answer to Roger Baker. I
took his query to be directed to me and my background and I was agreeing
with him that, in the final reckoning, my comments really didn't matter. I
recognize that, insofar as RPA is concerned, Brian Lloyd and his opinions
don't matter one bit. In the end, only actions matter.
--
Brian Lloyd, WB6RQN/J79BPL
3191 Western Dr.
Cameron Park, CA 95682
brian@lloyd.com
+1.767.617.1365 (Dominica)
+1.916.877.5067 (USA)
Message 15
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| Subject: | Re: An open letter to the RPA |
Thank you.
Bill
On Jan 3, 2012, at 10:54 AM, Brian Lloyd <brian@lloyd.com> wrote:
>
>
> On Mon, Jan 2, 2012 at 7:07 PM, Richard Hess <hess737@aol.com> wrote:
> Thanks Doc.
>
> Brian, Barry,
> I feel badly for you two because in one case it seems you are frustrated w
ith not seeing things go as you envisioned. For the other, it seems you've e
ither been forced out or decided to walk away. I am sincere when I say chang
e comes from within.
>
> First, I want to apologize to the group. The only thing I am really intere
sted in is helping people solve problems. OTOH, I have a hard time just smil
ing, nodding my head, and walking away when I perceive someone is acting unt
hinkingly. This is my problem and I am working on it. And some people just r
ub me the wrong way and I seem unable to just let it go. Again, my apologies
for dumping that on the whole list.
>
> But the entire Yak Pilots' Club/Yak Pilots' Association/Redstar Pilot's As
sociation has, from the beginning, had a clear bias that is exclusive rather
than inclusive. Back then it was a good ol' boys club and the inner-circle w
as made up of ex-military pilots. If you hadn't flown for the USAF or USN, w
ell, you weren't really considered competent no matter what you did.
>
> I purchased a CJ6A from Yakity Yaks in 1998. Like you I was in love with t
he airplane. (I have never flown another airplane with better control harmon
y and I have flown a LOT of airplanes.) I learned everything I could and the
n tried to help others. In fact, I got Matt Dralle to create this list as pa
rt of that. Education was a hard-won thing too. Relatively few people really
had the knowledge and most of them weren't really talking. Some were making
their living selling and supporting the aircraft and seemed to think that g
iving away assistance was cutting into their revenue stream.
>
> For me the whole thing came to a head with a couple of events about 10 yea
rs ago. The big one for me was the first All Red Star event at Castle AFB. T
his was the first of Drew's vision for a lot of fun and involvement for ever
yone. (And a good thing it was too.) I was deeply involved and did much of t
he legwork for making the first ARS event happen. Drew was in LA and flying f
or the airlines. When Drew was there, I was there with him. When Drew was un
available, I was the one dealing with vendors at Castle and in the surroundi
ng Atwater area. I certainly didn't do all the work but I did a substantial a
mount of it.
>
> Then the event started. The "old guard" arrived and took over. At that poi
nt I was supposed to do what I was told, fly the hops with the FNGs that the
y didn't want to fly with, and keep my mouth shut. I remember how incensed a
nd betrayed I felt when Drew lavished praise on these guys who had done noth
ing to set up the event but arrive and lord it over everyone else. And as I r
ecall, at the end of the banquet where Drew gave credit to everyone except m
e, it was Barry who stood up and publicly thanked me for my work.
>
> So, yeah, I felt excluded. I suspect some of you know how that feels as we
ll.
>
> The other event was a friend who came to ARS the next year to come up to s
peed on learning to fly formation. The "inner circle" took exception to his a
irplane (limited instrumentation in the back seat) and told him that they wo
uldn't let him fly. Since the FAA approves his airplane for flight, and sinc
e he had been flying the airplane regularly, I think that its basic airworth
iness had been proven. So I took that as another example of the exclusionary
behavior of the "Yak Pilot's Club". (I also think that he was partly tarred
with the brush of being my friend and student.)
>
> So, yes, I think that the RPA could probably do with a little more inclusi
on and a little less of the Mount Olympus mentality. But maybe it has change
d and I am completely off base. If so, then I apologize for dredging up old,
obsolete memories.
>
> Lastly, I want everyone to know that, if they need help with any aspect of
owning and operating their CJ6A or Yak-52, I will do my best to help. (I am
much more knowledgeable on the CJ6A than I am on the -52 but I still have a
pretty good handle on both systems and flying -52.)
>
> --
> Brian Lloyd, WB6RQN/J79BPL
> 3191 Western Dr.
> Cameron Park, CA 95682
> brian@lloyd.com
> +1.767.617.1365 (Dominica)
> +1.916.877.5067 (USA)
>
>
>
==========================
=========
==========================
=========
==========================
=========
==========================
=========
>
Message 16
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| Subject: | An open letter to the RPA |
So, yes, I think that the RPA could probably do with a little more inclusion
and a little less of the Mount Olympus mentality. But maybe it has changed
and I am completely off base. If so, then I apologize for dredging up old,
obsolete memories.
Brian your right on about the RPA's problems. Mount Olympus has been growing
like a cancer for the last several years. And has
been consolidating top down control of the RPA.
Tom Elliott
CJ-6A NX63727
777 Quartz Ave
PMB 7004
Sandy Valley NV
89019
Cell 702-595-2680
From: owner-yak-list-server@matronics.com
[mailto:owner-yak-list-server@matronics.com] On Behalf Of Brian Lloyd
Sent: Tuesday, January 03, 2012 9:54 AM
Subject: Re: Yak-List: An open letter to the RPA
On Mon, Jan 2, 2012 at 7:07 PM, Richard Hess <hess737@aol.com> wrote:
Thanks Doc.
Brian, Barry,
I feel badly for you two because in one case it seems you are frustrated
with not seeing things go as you envisioned. For the other, it seems you've
either been forced out or decided to walk away. I am sincere when I say
change comes from within.
First, I want to apologize to the group. The only thing I am really
interested in is helping people solve problems. OTOH, I have a hard time
just smiling, nodding my head, and walking away when I perceive someone is
acting unthinkingly. This is my problem and I am working on it. And some
people just rub me the wrong way and I seem unable to just let it go. Again,
my apologies for dumping that on the whole list.
But the entire Yak Pilots' Club/Yak Pilots' Association/Redstar Pilot's
Association has, from the beginning, had a clear bias that is exclusive
rather than inclusive. Back then it was a good ol' boys club and the
inner-circle was made up of ex-military pilots. If you hadn't flown for the
USAF or USN, well, you weren't really considered competent no matter what
you did.
I purchased a CJ6A from Yakity Yaks in 1998. Like you I was in love with the
airplane. (I have never flown another airplane with better control harmony
and I have flown a LOT of airplanes.) I learned everything I could and then
tried to help others. In fact, I got Matt Dralle to create this list as part
of that. Education was a hard-won thing too. Relatively few people really
had the knowledge and most of them weren't really talking. Some were making
their living selling and supporting the aircraft and seemed to think that
giving away assistance was cutting into their revenue stream.
For me the whole thing came to a head with a couple of events about 10 years
ago. The big one for me was the first All Red Star event at Castle AFB. This
was the first of Drew's vision for a lot of fun and involvement for
everyone. (And a good thing it was too.) I was deeply involved and did much
of the legwork for making the first ARS event happen. Drew was in LA and
flying for the airlines. When Drew was there, I was there with him. When
Drew was unavailable, I was the one dealing with vendors at Castle and in
the surrounding Atwater area. I certainly didn't do all the work but I did a
substantial amount of it.
Then the event started. The "old guard" arrived and took over. At that point
I was supposed to do what I was told, fly the hops with the FNGs that they
didn't want to fly with, and keep my mouth shut. I remember how incensed and
betrayed I felt when Drew lavished praise on these guys who had done nothing
to set up the event but arrive and lord it over everyone else. And as I
recall, at the end of the banquet where Drew gave credit to everyone except
me, it was Barry who stood up and publicly thanked me for my work.
So, yeah, I felt excluded. I suspect some of you know how that feels as
well.
The other event was a friend who came to ARS the next year to come up to
speed on learning to fly formation. The "inner circle" took exception to his
airplane (limited instrumentation in the back seat) and told him that they
wouldn't let him fly. Since the FAA approves his airplane for flight, and
since he had been flying the airplane regularly, I think that its basic
airworthiness had been proven. So I took that as another example of the
exclusionary behavior of the "Yak Pilot's Club". (I also think that he was
partly tarred with the brush of being my friend and student.)
So, yes, I think that the RPA could probably do with a little more inclusion
and a little less of the Mount Olympus mentality. But maybe it has changed
and I am completely off base. If so, then I apologize for dredging up old,
obsolete memories.
Lastly, I want everyone to know that, if they need help with any aspect of
owning and operating their CJ6A or Yak-52, I will do my best to help. (I am
much more knowledgeable on the CJ6A than I am on the -52 but I still have a
pretty good handle on both systems and flying -52.)
--
Brian Lloyd, WB6RQN/J79BPL
3191 Western Dr.
Cameron Park, CA 95682
brian@lloyd.com
+1.767.617.1365 <tel:%2B1.767.617.1365> (Dominica)
+1.916.877.5067 <tel:%2B1.916.877.5067> (USA)
No virus found in this message.
Checked by AVG - www.avg.com
Message 17
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| Subject: | Part I: The RPA Idea... |
Part I: The RPA Idea
I will make these as short as I can, label them part I, II, III and IV. I'm going
to focus on solutions and why the RPA stalled, and how the Board of Directors
can fix it.
Collectively, I hope, it will also give you a picture of where the RPA was supposed
to go in services, and let you decide if its worth it to participate.
But I want members and non members to understand this one critical point, the RPA
- and the fix that is needed - is not *ONLY* the delivery of a shiny magazine,
it isn't the fly-in you attend regionally to hopefully get a few training
sorties for your FAST card or fly with your buds. Your fix is a fundamental modification
to how this organization runs. If it's fixed, you will see a much different
organization in how YOU interact with it, and the services it provides.
The BoD can make the proposed fix, and you, the membership will get to vote that
fix.
For old heads, just speed read Part I, but there are crucial points even here...I
also mention some of the key players who helped out...
For those new, and with this economy there probably aren't many, my name is Drew
Blahnick, a now retired AF pilot and last YPA and first RPA president. In 2001,
prior to 911, I was living in southern California and with the help of a
non pilot friend (Jim Esposito) and Bomber Amy (Castle Airport administrative
assistant at the time), with additional help from, yes, Brian Lloyd, Cary Vendon,
and a host of YPA folks, we put on the first All Red Star. I'm going to "recall"
certain events, please remember them, I'm recalling them for a reason.
Here is one, when I was mass emailing the upcoming ARS event to pilots, one called
me from the Bay Area, he said "if this is another one of those east coast
CJ formation club (YPA) events, I'll pass". This was a yak owner. He was reflecting
only that the YPA had an image of being mostly CJ's doing one thing;
flying formation together. That wasn't far from the truth. I invited the YPA
cadre out to assist in the events ARS formation training, but emphasized in my
emails this would be different, and this guys statement hammered my intent.
This guy (now well known at the annual Bone Fest in his Yak 50) did a LOT in 15
seconds to mold ARS, and later the RPA as an "All aircraft, all owner, all activity
jet to prop" effort - his single statement to me even influenced the selection
of the name and logo of your organization - Red Star.
By the way, Brian Lloyd aided our selection of Castle AFB for ARS by offering to
fly around California in his twin for my sight surveys at retired military
bases. Brian is a good pilot, intelligent, but like every one of us, he's unique
in his own way. He's also one of the first examples I witnessed of the YPA's
inner cabal mentality of pushing out others instead of really guiding their
positive contribution. I witnessed it again when a training and evaluation paperwork
issue resulted in the exit of a very popular check pilot back to basic
lead rating with no recourse (we later got him back as a CP and he's quite active
to say the least). It was my first exposure to culture we need to really change
in the RPA going forward.
Picture ARS I/II and you can see the birthing of the RPA and where we wanted to
see it go; 40-50 airplanes, jet to prop, even a USMC F-5 with a Soviet style
Star on the tail. It was a lot of asking others what they wanted to do (basic
formation, tactical training, aerobatics training, maintenance education were
all big responses). If you were there saturday night, the awards table had several
logo-red star trophies for several competitions, during the four days folks
were literally running from cockpit to make a seminar on engines or the tactical
training power point by Cary Vendon, or the aerobatics instructor (who would
die in a Yak 52 suspected FOD issue 45 days after the event I recall) and
some pissed they missed it. Friday evening it was a two table crud tournament,
we even had custom crud balls for those who remember the Oclub.
It was rough, the on base hotels were short blankets and toilet paper was probably
running short, but for most it was a ball. Speaking of balls, there were arguably
too many in the air at once to control, and that causes you to be over-protective
of the execution and details, there in was a hard won lesson. Barry
Hancock and I later started the first Desert Thunder event in Palm Springs,
based loosely off a low level tactical training event I participated in while
flying Gunships in AFSOC. And Barry did a swell job taking over ARS III - IX
(?), and Desert Thunder lives on...while as RPA president stuck in South Florida,
I later came back and pissed off Barry's poor ARS flight scheduler while trying
to lasso several aircraft for a massive video formation flying project we
had planned for membership use (to accompany the new formation manual that we
were working on). Back then I tended to do that, too focused on the organizations
larger goals to see who I might be pissing off, it always felt if we could
just get the RPA off the ground, check pilots, board members and fly in organizers
all reading from the same sheet of music...
So after watching the YPA operate as a Bod member for one year, and with the above
experience in pocket, we asked you, the membership, to let us move away from
the YPA "CJ formation club" image mentioned by that Yak 52 owner previously,
to something I briefed at the 2003 Oshkosh "change of leadership" presentation;
RedStar, a jet to prop, all aircraft, all owner organization represented by
a regionalized board of directors using modern technology to help lower our
workload and improve member-organization communications (website, ecoms, etc.)
and services.
I can remember at Oshkosh when I clicked on the power point slide of the then (new)
RPA logo, a world map dominated by a Red Star and "RPA" initials, one individual
in particular caught my attention in the back of the room by letting out
the loudest something-or-other in support of the concept; your current President
Terry Slawinski. My testimony in these emails is not focused on Ski's administration,
although I will use the current state of our organization as an
example of how you - the membership and board of directors - can help improve
this association...
So what's wrong ten years later?....
______________________________________
Strive for one knee down in life, but never two.
(1000 Year Old Road Racing Proverb That I Just Made Up)
Message 18
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| Subject: | Part II: What's Wrong with the Organization |
Part II Whats wrong with the organization
I will get to the many good services that are non functional, but we need to start
with how the RPA even figures out what it's supposed to be doing with your
money and your man hours; the Board of Directors!
As part of the new RPA in 2003, We wanted a regionalized board, not a rubber stamping
body or a group of hardly-never-changing good ole boys personally "invited"
to participate, I was looking to "unload" future decisions (and yes, work)
from the president to a board, *and its committees*, made up of individuals
that actually were "close" to the members geographically; i.e. you actually might
know your representative. The idea (here it comes) was to improve association-membership
communication (getting your ideas or gripes to the board, and
in turn, you to pitch in when needed) and empowering that board to help set the
future resultant course.
Well, while we changed the name of the organization, its patches, logo, website
and other tools in 2003, we did *not* change the structure of the bylaws that
make up of the board of directors until late 2005; why? some on the board and
some members were honestly fearful of regionalizing, in that it would "break
up" the membership in geographical units, no one would talk to each other.
Guess what? They were *right*!!! Well, sort of....No, they were not right, in
my opinion, of fearing that regionalizing the member representation would break
up the community, but we validated their fears by not putting membership communication
as priority one; we failed to keep abiding by that 2002 tag line to
"use modern technology to reduce man hours and improve member services". One
critical service is allowing you to communicate both with other members and with
the organization and visa versa.
Is there any system in place to advance communications? The debrief is not only
for individuals, it also works for organizations.
I was often out of communication as well back then, 20 days a month flying England to Kuwait on an active duty recall, but as someone mentioned, we put up a "RPA Forum" page on www.flyredstar.org that got little traction then - however today, with modern technology almost ten years later, the RPA can promote much better communication both between members, and with the board/leadership, than we are doing. We can't even determine who is on the board of directors!
We've been dead in the water and aren't listening, but hold on, for in just days
an old style YPA culture is about too make us all feel like its ok by delivering
a puppy to your door...
______________________________________
Strive for one knee down in life, but never two.
(1000 Year Old Road Racing Proverb That I Just Made Up)
Message 19
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| Subject: | Part III: moving away from cabals |
Part III: Moving away from the culture of cabalist leadership...
In 2005/6 I had stayed an extra year as president to get the new regionalized bylaws
written and through the vote, and went searching for the next presidential
"volunteer". I had a very specific goal in mind, not for an individual, but
a concept; he should be a non YPA insider. We had a few volunteers, but I called
non-volunteer, Condor, nationally a relatively little known Yak 52 owner and
successful land developer who had written us some well thought out ideas on
corporate sponsorship. After about 45 minutes on the phone (ok, maybe longer),
he agreed to run. His resume was strong in business and aviation.
Why did I search out an outsider to run first under the new bylaws??
I watched over the years something that I just couldn't see as healthy long term
for this organization; the constant recycling of the same individual(s) running
departments, controlling the message and content, the selections of who and
what gets heard. And I'm not talking about the President elected by the Board.
For some people, the "need" to be in control, via the front door or back door,
goes beyond the trappings of altruism and volunteerism, regardless of how
much they believe they are the most qualified or capable, or, as often heard "there
is no one else".
Believe it or not, your organization is largely maneuvered from within by the efforts
of one individual who does quality work, but orchestrates a level of control
that unless challenged, tends to muffle communication and, sometimes, even
good logic. I didn't think that was healthy in 2004 and attempted to make changes
as president in certain key positions, I searched out Condor a few year
later to further insure the RPA would be free to invite in any and all, take
any course or path. While anyone can and should continue contributing as volunteers
over time, I absolutely believe the nesting of a persons influence over
an active, board managed committee-based structure is unhealthy today. Cabalist
leadership is like insider trading, a few folks make the calls, a few more may
be invited to participate, the rest of you are fed information and largely
kept in the dark.
How does it survive? By political maneuvering for sure, by insuring friends are
in position who support the system, by having no objective board committee process
that sheds light on the condition, and, most importantly, counting on the
apathy of the membership themselves.
Your magazine is not unlike that Southpark episode where the world is going to
sh_t, so the government takes over the airwaves and just shows "puppies" on TV;
it immediately focuses our attention away from broader issues and services
(see part IV). You get used to it, expect it. It's not an association, it becomes
a content producer for the personal glorification and needs of individual
ego, wrapped around the trappings of your filtered contributions. But it's not
the RPA, not as it was envisioned.
Finding out the hard way you screwed up the bylaws....
In 2005 I thought this culture I adopted from the YPA would be removed with the
new regionalized bylaws. But only a few years later, I realized I had made a
*huge* oversight. I wanted to empower the new board to set the agenda, but left
in place the institution of a National President over and separate from the
Board of Directors, "as it has always been". This is not a "check and balance"
system, it's a system that further separates *you* (and in fact, the Board)
from what the association is or should be doing. As a former YPA board member
I could see it was flawed, as the RPA president I felt frustrated by it while
at the same time using it to forcefully get through the required RPA changes,
as a member and volunteer it just plain sucks! It allows the board to rely on
the national officers too much. The president and vice president are fundamentally
separate from the board, this sets up a us vs them agenda debate, poor execution
of services, cabalism, apathy on the bod and in committees (if they even
exist) and significant lack of communication, both horizontally and vertically.
20/20 hindsight....
Your six regional board of directors are your go-to-guys/gals, you should have
their emails, if you have an idea, you should be telling them. In meetings online
or over the phone they should be identifying service priorities, setting up
committees to tackle the services, and then asking (communicating) with their
membership to volunteer, and telling you why you're needed. If it sounds like
a worthless service, you will vote with your feet.
The change that is needed:
The (current) three national directors are elected by *all* of you, via national
voting. Combined with the 6 regional directors, that is all the pointy head
leadership the RPA will ever need in the future.
The Board now, under a system we carried over from the YPA, must then elect still
another power center; the President, separate from the bod itself. Why?
The Solution:
The national directors now serve for 3 years, each should serve as chairman of
the board, vice chairman and secretary for one year and cycles positions by seniority.
The chairman guides the debate of the regional directors in setting services,
programs and treasury priorities. If he runs amok, or fails to execute,
the board simply votes him out of the chairmans seat if all or some large %
agree, but not off the board. He is one of them, not separate from them. The
YPA adopted system of separate President is abolished; the rule going forward
is "no agenda, but what comes from the regions via directors and ultimately from
the members via active member communication. No one over the directors you
elect, separate from them.
And member communications should be priority number one. Priority number two should
be the advancement of team-based committee style project execution. To let
you participate, to solve, to speak - instead of the constant recycling of one,
it should be the constant invitation of the many.
______________________________________
Strive for one knee down in life, but never two.
(1000 Year Old Road Racing Proverb That I Just Made Up)
Message 20
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| Subject: | Part IV : services unseen |
Part IV: Some services you don't get...
Remember that table full of rewards I mentioned from ARS I? What happened to the
national RPA awards program for owner participation - based on regional results
from your fly-ins, and national membership or BoD final voting? You know,
the trophy vendor in Phoenix that produced those red logo "best formation display",
"Best in show", "Best bomb drop score", "National Dirty Bird" - they don't
exist yet! You can add to this the regional voting for the national bone award
(probably not a good idea for a competition, but completely jest) and the
other one I was hoping for; regional crud teams converging on Las Vegas for the
national championship (may sound crazy, but few know our "redstar" team beat
the militarys display team at the first national crud tournament during ICAS
2003/4)..all these ARS I concepts we're planned future RPA national functions
to "connect" regions through owner activities done locally. They simply do not
exist, even though some have suggested it. Why go all the to Oshkosh to have
your bird judged nationally? Ok, so its in our magazine instead of the EAAs.
Stop telling us that the reason the RPA doesn't do anything is because owners are
under economic pressure - when in fact it's programs like the one above that
is exactly what excels in this economic climate when flying to Oshkosh is crazy
expensive for many.
Where is our forum? How do we communicate? Yes, I realized the RPA Forum at www.flyredstar.org didn't not take off right away, but not only should we have one, even the yak list, but we now have all new technology to help you guys connect, banter, jibe, and suggest - and except for Marks good work on the facebook page, our communication is terrible (matronics, website, forums, twitter, FB, etc.).
Why is the RPA website and related online functions so dead in the age of digital
communication? why is it still loaded with content referencing 2007? But do
not just put out a new website as you stated in a call to renew (puppy!), that
is *not* the problem! Where is the committee for web content, and who is on
it? Is there one? How do you as a volunteer, quickly and efficiently update a
web page if you had volunteers? Why wasn't the suggestion of having a page where
members could post and view our youtube videos executed? Why can't we find
a members email address? Where are the board members email contacts.
We cancelled the "RPA Employee debit card" system for helping regional events organizers,
such as Shane Golden, pre-fund some expenses. Ok, so where is the treasury
report on the replacement programs usage? What? Its not being used? Must
mean either funding is not needed, events are dwindling or event organizers
don't know how to use it or want to bother dealing with the paperwork and snail
mail.
Where's the RPA fuel card, or FBO discount program ;) Ok, well, thats asking too
much perhaps....we once had Cannon Aviation Insurance giving the treasury $5000
a year in sponsorship, are we getting more now, where is the member report
on these. Any finance guys out there willing to help Treasurer publish this to
spark ways to spend money on services membership votes on?
Why is "death and taxes" the only reason we get ecoms from the RPA? Nothing to
say? Or no one to write them on training, maintenance updates, etc. If ecom publication
procedures are too complicated, publish them for us, I found that vendor
7 years ago, we can find another.
Why didn't we explore expanding the RPA internationally when we might have had
volunteers in New Zealand and the UK to spearhead this?
Where is the committee invites for these and plenty of other services and programs
the membership might want to tap in to. Without a system in place that can
record and listen to the membership, by maintaining a board of directors under
a two-but-never-equal leadership system, and by shifting around the same single
individual to gap fill all services vs instituting a real committee based
organization, you do nothing to make this an association worth really volunteering
for or remaining a member of, other than that FAST card, and that only costs
the RPA about $5 per person and applies to about 130 individuals I guess...
The RPA stopped evolving forward on the original vision, I would ask the BoD to
consider taking the steps I've outlined in leadership structure as a possible
modification to the bylaws for member ratification.
End.
Drew Blahnick.
RPA President #1
______________________________________
Strive for one knee down in life, but never two.
(1000 Year Old Road Racing Proverb That I Just Made Up)
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