By Katie Perry, AMA Administrative Assistant | katiep@modelaircraft.org
THE GOLDBERG NAME is one that nearly every model airplane enthusiast has heard. Carl Goldberg began his aeromodeling career just as many of you did—in his backyard, with bits and pieces that he worked tirelessly to turn into working models. He went from backyard building at the age of 15 to running his own business, Carl Goldberg Models Inc., at the age of 43 with his wife, Beth.
Beth worked at the Comet Model Company as a secretary when she met Carl, who was the company’s chief designer. She eventually took a dive into aeromodeling herself in 1984, and built and flew a model in the 1984 Nats under the watchful eyes of Carl.
Carl and Beth came to AMA with the hope of creating an award specifically for the people who work behind the scenes, help set up events, produce club newsletters, help to educate newcomers, and more. As a result, the Carl & Beth Goldberg Vital People Award was created in 1983 for modelers who might not get as much recognition as they deserve. If you know someone who is hardworking, dedicated, and has a true passion for model aviation, this could be a great way to thank them.
To keep the tradition alive each year, a committee composed of one AMA member from each district comes together to choose the winners of the Carl & Beth Goldberg Vital People Award. Nominations are due by September 15 each year. If there is someone who comes to mind as you read this, feel free to nominate them for the 2024 season. If sent in after September 15, the nomination will not be included in the 2024 list. The winners receive an engraved plaque, along with a $200 check to thank them for their dedication.
If you have a person in mind, simply email nominations@modelaircraft.org with your nomination and the reason that you believe they should receive the award. The winners will be announced after November 10. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to Katie Perry at katiep@modelaircraft.org.