This article was originally published in RC Driver’s February 2016 issue.
I was about 12-years-old when I got my first Tyco radio control car. I guess you could call vehicles like this the original ready to runs, and it was plenty of fun for the few weeks I was able to avoid puddles. Not knowing what get next my father and I scoured local toy stores until a friend recommended a “real” hobby shop where I got a Tamiya Falcon that I was able to build. I’ve been hooked ever since.
Today, with smartphones, computers and videogame consoles many kids don’t get the same exposures as us “old guys” to building things and working with our hands. To help address this Barnes and Noble held a Mini Maker Faire at a great many of their stores from November 6 –8 2015. The idea to was give kids (kids of all ages that is), the opportunity to get their hands dirty and build things. With robotics, electronics, 3D printers and much more, there was no a lack of creativity at any of the tables. My pal Adam, knowing my affi nity for all things radio controlled asked if I could man a table and perhaps have kids help me build a car. Without hesitation I said yes and then had to decide what to build. When Greg mentioned what was going on to the people at Tamiya they were quick to respond and sent a cool black Toyota FJ Cruiser that utilizes the CC-01 chassis.
Over the course of my three-hour shift at the Enfi eld, CT Barnes and Noble my helpers, as I like to call them, were able to get a litt le more than half of the Tamiya FJ Cruiser built with minimal guidance from me. While the Mini Maker Faire was aimed at kids, many adults were really excited to see everything going on and several gave a helping hand with the Tamiya FJ Cruiser too. One adult helper really liked seeing the kids turning wrenches and mentioned that kids today have it too easy as everything comes pre-made for them and that events like this, hands-on events, are what kids really need. I could not agree more and can’t wait for the 2016 Mini Maker Faire at Barnes and Noble!
