Happy 35th Anniversary
Hobby-Sports.com!

Hobby-Sports.com and its owner, Rex Simpson, were recognized for its 35th anniversary by the Southwest Michigan First Chamber. Simpson was recognized for his service to the Chamber as a Chamber Ambassador and Buy Local board member.

Hobby-Sports in Portage has been a Chamber member since 2016, and Rex has been a Chamber Ambassador since 2018. Rex is a staple at Chamber events and has built great relationships in the business community. Hobby-Sports provides access to a wide variety of RC vehicles, drones, and other collectibles. Rex is a perfect example of an entrepreneur recognizing a niche and building a great local business. Not only does Hobby-Sports thrive, but the community thrives because of businesses and people like Rex, the Chamber noted.

According to the Small Business Administration’s Office of
Advocacy, only five out of every 100 businesses are still operating after 30 years. Thirty-five years is an incredible feat! Join us in
congratulating Rex on 35 successful years.

FAA Remote ID Rules Go Into Effect

Radio-controlled operators must comply with Remote ID requirements through Standard Remote ID, use of a broadcast module, or by flying at an FRIA site. AMA has shared with the FAA that most AMA sites have FRIA status or are close to receiving a Remote Identification Authorization Exemption; however, many individuals are still finding it difficult to obtain a module.

Although the FAA recognizes that modules are still scarce, more have become available since the original compliance date in September 2023. With the progress in broadcast module availability, the FAA has stated that it will not further extend the deadline.

Best Bang For The Buck Hobbies

Stress relief is the primary reason 81% of individuals turn to their hobbies, according to a recent survey of 1,000 Americans, which highlights the importance of leisure activities in managing the pressures of daily life.

Additionally, 57% valued hobbies as a way to enjoy some alone time, allowing them to recharge from the hustle and bustle of their routines.

But hobbies are not just about relaxation; they are also avenues for
creative expression and a sense of achievement, with both aspects
valued equally by 56% of the population. The average American dedicates 9 hours per week to their hobbies, more than a standard work day.

The survey found the hobby that offers the best “bang for your buck” is music production because people who participate in music production also report high levels of happiness and low cost.

Rounding out the top five of the Top 100 Best Bang for Your Buck activities were comedy groups, meditation, creative writing
and online games.

At the bottom of the Best Bang for Your Buck list were cooking/baking, car repair, bowling, origami and gardening. RC cars, boats and planes ranked No. 85 on the list, reflecting requirements for specialized equipment or skills and relative cost compared to other activities.

Spielwarenmesse Soars As Primary
Global Toy Event

The Spielwarenmesse has succeeded in asserting its unique leading role in the global market, according to event organizers.

During the event held in January, the toy industry came together at the Nuremberg Exhibition Centre for its sole global event. There were 2,354 exhibitors from 68 countries – an increase of 10% over the previous year – who took the opportunity to display their products. Alongside the product innovations, a multitude of different networking opportunities and stimulating ideas on the primary theme of “Kidults” awaited the 57,000 visitors from 125 nations who gathered there. 

For 2023, 97% of the exhibitors considered participation in Nuremberg to be important or very important. “As the leading trade fair, the Spielwarenmesse is the where everyone from all over the world meets,” said Ram Ronen of PMI Trading & Enterprise.
“You won’t find these opportunities anywhere else.” 

Sunward Hobbies Completes Move to Larger Store

After unpacking racks of model paints and hobby tools, Sunward Hobbies has completed its move to a new storefront in the Greater Toronto area.

Community feedback highlighted the need for more space for in-store shopping. The new location features 5,200 square feet with spacious aisles and room for new product lines. 

Also, Sunward Hobbies now carries The Plastic Soldier Company, Kinetic Models and Albion Alloys lines for online and in-store shoppers, reflecting feedback collected from the community.

The 13 employees at Sunward are excited to assist local shoppers in Ontario and online customers across North America. HM