By Joe Pirozzoli
The Arvada City Council presented Certificates of Recognition to Brian O’Meara and the Arvada Associated Modelers for bringing another “unique” and charitable event to the community. Councilmember Bob Fifer, on behalf of the City Council, presented the certificates at the 20-October-2014 Council Meeting.
Councilmember Fifer remarked… “The great air battles of the World Wars took place far from the open fields of north Arvada. However, for a weekend in September the triumphs of military aircraft were showcased at the Warbirds Over the Rockies model aviation event. With a passion for history, aviation and modeling, Brian O’Meara was instrumental in bringing the Warbirds Over the Rockies event to the Arvada Modelers Airpark. The weekend long air show, previously held in Ault, Colorado, drew modelers from all over the globe and gave members of the Arvada community the opportunity to view scale models of historic military aircraft in ground displays, flight and even mock battles complete with pyrotechnics. City council would like to recognize Brian for his efforts organizing this exciting event in our community at one of our most unique parks. City council would also like to recognize the Arvada Associated Modelers for hosting this event. In particular, Jim Manley President of AAM was instrumental in facilitating the move from Ault and coordinating the event that brought together military aircraft hobbyists and historians. As well as a unique opportunity for the public to learn more about aviation history during war time. A portion of the proceeds from the event were donated to the Colorado chapter of Mental Health America.”
Councilmember Fifer, Mayor Williams and others encouraged Brian and AAM to pursue WOTR at the Arvada Airpark. Their support and encouragement were vital to moving the event to Arvada. Brian went on to say that there were over 125 pilots from all over the U.S. and from 7 different countries around the globe. The event also attracted over 5000 spectators and donated $25,000 to Colorado Mental Health.
This is a great honor for both Brian and AAM. It reinforces that WOTR belongs here in Arvada and that our efforts were very well placed. Thanks to everyone that helped make WOTR such a huge success. In particular, we owe Jim Manley a huge debt of gratitude for the role he played in bringing WOTR to AAM and then for organizing and executing the effort. Thanks Jim, and we wish you all the best!
