By Katie Perry, Administrative Assistant | katiep@modelaircraft.org
Three individuals have been awarded the annual Carl & Beth Goldberg Vital People Award. This award was designed to recognize AMA members who go above and beyond to support model aviation, their clubs, and other modelers.
The Carl & Beth Goldberg Vital People Award recipients are nominated by fellow modelers who want to recognize their efforts, which are often behind the scenes. This year, the following modelers received the award in recognition of their tireless hard work and dedication: Lawrence Erbach (District VI), Lon McClure (District VII), and Sevak Malkhasyan (District X).
Lawrence (Larry) Erbach became the president of the Chain-O-Lake Eagles club, which has flying sites in Burlington, Ringwood, and Hebron, Illinois, at the start of 2025. He visited AMA’s International Aeromodeling Center in the spring to learn everything there was to know about being a club president and making a club truly worthwhile. His passion and leadership have since transformed the Illinois club. He has dedicated countless hours working to secure a new flying field, uniting club members, and expanding the club’s STEM program and educational outreach with fellow club member Drew Durik. Larry has used his time as president to create new committees, events, and partnerships that have strengthened the club as a whole.
Lon McClure joined the Greater Detroit Soaring and Hiking Society in 2018, quickly becoming a cornerstone of the club’s success. Lon is a dedicated member who always arrives at the field early and stays late at each event, consistently assisting with setup and teardown, whether competing or not. Lon heads the club’s website and makes certain that there is smooth communication, keeping the members up to date on events and promoting the club at the same time. At club meetings, Lon provides helpful insights and promotes thoughtful discussion. Lon is a generous, passionate individual who is always willing to help others.
Sevak Malkhasyan is a driven, hard-working, and determined individual who has spent the last two years implementing the National Youth Aviation Academy at a local level, as well as working to create similar programs around the world. The youth aviation program in Southern California teaches Free Flight to local youths and their families. Those who have never been introduced to model aviation are becoming part of the hobby thanks to this program. Sevak’s nomination was sent in by one family member who was especially appreciative of his efforts in creating a lifetime of future memories.
SOURCES:
Carl & Beth Goldberg Vital People Award
modelaircraft.org/clubs/recognition-rewards/carl-beth-goldberg-vital-people-award