October 25, 2012

Subject: SSMA Journal

Mike Toole has agreed to help publish the SSMA Journal.  Mike is a member of Task Force 50 in York, Pa.  Mike will be in charge of putting together the Journal and then sending it to Renee & Don to get printed and mailed to all current members and clubs.

Mike can be reached at the following e-mail address

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His address is:

Mike Toole

677 Baldwin Way

Mount Joy, PA 17552

At this time Mike is working on getting the Journal ready.  We are sorry for this delay, but please remember that the jobs we do for the SSMA are voluntary, I hope all of you understand.

Remember that there is a Special Dues reduction in effect for all members who pay their 2013 dues by Nov. 22, 2012 (determined by postmark) of $5.00 

Ken Griffin

National & Membership Director

To All Clubs & Members:

The SSMA Handbook is now available in a PDF file.

I have been trying for several days to send a copies of this file to the current clubs and have been successful in all but 7 clubs.  I have sent this file to the current e-mail address we have on file but they were undeliverable. If you choose not to receive the SSMA Handbook in a PDF format but would rather have one printed and mailed to you the cost will be about $40.00 plus postage.  The following clubs e-mails were returned:

Nautical Research Model Ship Society

Bay Area Electric Boaters

ORCAS North Florida

USS Constitution Model Shipwright Guild

Michigan Scale Model Boat Club

Colorado Crew

Empire State Model Mariners

If you want a copy of this file please supply me with the contact person for your club and a good e-mail address.  Send to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.  

If you would rather have a handbook printed please send name and address to Ken Griffin, 412 W. Gard Dr., Crown Point, IN 46307-2342.  I will advise you of the total cost to have one printed.

Thank you

Ken Griffin

National & Membership Director

Introduction to Lithium Polymer (Li Poly) Batteries

Lithium Polymer Batteries are found in many modern electronic devices, such as laptops and cell phones. They are significantly lighter than NiMh or NiCd batteries, and have higher capacity for the same size. Over the last five years they have worked their way into the hobby market, for use in RC boats, cars, and model airplanes. Their light weight and high capacity make them ideal for long flight times, while also providing more power.

When thinking about breakthroughs in Radio Control technology, quite a few things come to mind.  From the first electronic speed control, dual throttle control, first computerized radio, and first synthesized radio, there have been a number of milestones. ISM band, or 2.4GHz Spread Spectrum Technology can now be added to the major milestone list.