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As seen in the August 2026 issue of Model Aviation.
Cox Models Memories
This month, Pat Tritle reminisces about Cox Models in his "Small-Field Flying" column on page 44, encouraging readers to watch a YouTube video about the Cox Models factory and our hobby’s evolution from the 1950s and ’60s until now. You can view the video at youtube.com/watch?v=6FyQ-WlM9ms. "I highly recommend it," states Pat, who grew up in the Cox Models era.
If you have a Cox engine that’s looking for an aircraft to call home, head over to plans.modelaircraft.org/?s=cox&post_type=product, where you just might find your next build.
AMA Foundation Director Steve Haston sat down with AMA Foundation Board Chairman Bud Layne in April to discuss Bud’s $1 million bequest to AMA. Inspired by a pulse jet contest at age seven, Bud’s lifelong aviation career led to this significant gift, which he views as an investment in AMA’s role as a vital regulatory voice. He emphasizes that as drone and model technology evolve into professional careers, AMA’s leadership is essential for securing the hobby’s future for the next generation.
You can watch the full video at youtube.com/watch?v=lvfKkL_wqHQ or by visiting AMA’s YouTube channel at youtube.com/@modelaircraft.
Read Up on Frank Zaic
In this month’s "Old-Timers" column on page 40, Bob Angel gives a brief history lesson about Frank Zaic, a name that is most likely familiar to many in the hobby because, without Frank, AMA might not exist as we know it today.
Frank was one of the original founders of AMA in 1936 (then known as the American Academy of Model Aeronautics). He also aided in publishing the very first issue of Model Aviation magazine that same year. You can view a PDF version of the issue at modelaircraft.org/sites/default/files/MA_Vol1_No1_%20June1936_Model_Aviation-web.pdf.
Frank was also the cofounder of the Junior Aeronautical Supply Company (JASCO) with his brother, John, and sister, Christine. Together, they produced several kits, many of which you can find and purchase plans for on the AMA Plans Service website at plans.modelaircraft.org/designer/frank-zaic
Finally, the National Model Aviation Museum’s Lee Renaud Memorial Library houses a remarkable collection of Frank’s Model Aeronautic Year Books. You can visit the in-person collection at AMA Headquarters in Muncie, Indiana.
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