As
part of the SSA’s Master Instructor Program SSAIs who have given at
least ten badges (A, B, C, or Bronze) during 2001 will receive a 50%
discount on their SSA dues.
Notification to those SSAIs qualifying for this discount will go out by
the end of January. Then the next
billing for membership dues will reflect this discount. While not a major “windfall” to instructors
this program nonetheless is an effort by the SSA to recognize the valuable role
that SSAIs play in the sport of soaring.
These active SSAIs spend a great deal of their “soaring” time helping
others climb the ladder of experience.
The
ABC Badge Program is an excellent program that encourages and recognizes SSA
pilots for their achievements in soaring.
The A, B, C, and Bronze Badges are the first steps that need to be taken
to move on to the more lofty and demanding Silver, Gold, and Diamond
Badges. Getting new SSA members
interested in the ABC Badge Program is vital in mentoring them onward and
upward to cross country flying. The
Program gives the beginner a planned program of continued training and learning
under the guidance of a qualified instructor.
It also keeps the beginner and intermediate pilots focused on a series
of objectives that are obtainable for his experience level. The ABC Badge Program is the best path for
continued growth, learning and fun in soaring.
It
is the SSAIs who oversee this program.
Hopefully all clubs and commercial operations are taking advantage of
this opportunity to help pilots. If your
club or operation is not using this program ask them to start. It is a great way to expand your training
beyond that required by the FAA. If you
are already participating in the ABC Badge Program take a minute the next time
you see your SSAI and thank him/her for taking to time to help you continue to
expand your learning (and your fun) in soaring.
Fly
Safely and Have FUN!