I was expecting some backlash from my post - however not as harsh as the above - I meant zero disrespect toward you "Davphys" and others with my previous post. We live in free countries and make decisions every day concerning our own lives and whatever it is we do or say for that matter. I do fully respect the laws and regulations with respect to flying these units but obviously I can't force anyone else to do the same with regard to that or anything else for that matter - if I can help as to education on safe flying I like to pass it on. I had no intention of forcing my opinions etc. on to anyone with it.
I also didn't post what I did to conjure up any "fear mongering" whatsoever but to merely point out what I had been told (hearsay or not). Just like you Davphys, with regard to TC, I can't sit here and profess to know the workings of the FAA other than what I am told and/or read about.
Calling me "gullible" with regard to my post, is your opinion and to some extent I may be when it comes to flying these along with some over compensating for rules and regulations etc. for my own safety and that of others - however I am not uneducated as to what's going on with our shared hobby and the "higher ups" who regulate it or make or even attempt to make changes by any means or source they can.
"Unsubstantiated lies"? I certainly can't speak as to under who's authority the FAA is limited and you may very well be correct with stating that Congress has that authority - I have no idea on that subject - period.
I do know however that the FAA inspectors have a protocol to follow when any UAV/UAS are depicted electronically (videos) and via the internet as to potential noncompliant actions. Briefly speaking here - That protocol starts with an "education outreach" to those depicted as doing so that includes educating (informational letter) as to compliance. If the operator remains noncompliant or is uncooperative the inspector can then step up to an enforcement and further investigation of same.
Up here in Canada there have even been reports of "personal injury" lawyers and insurance agents trolling YouTube etc. for evidence of the same. I am not a fan of this by any means as my opinion of lawyers and insurance companies........(well lets just say that's an entirely different subject). I do hope you get my drift here as to my message regarding posting these things. For the most part meant as helpful advice. I just don't think we need to be feeding any real or wannabe law makers with any reason at all (other than accidents or anything beyond our control) to further crack down on this hobby. Most importantly however, the need to fly responsible is on all of us - I'm sure you agree with that.
Bottom line on this subject Davphys - Since I have began the process of obtaining an SFOC (Special Flights Operations Certificate) here in Canada in order to fly any UAV's commercially that weigh over 2kg to include a training course for safe flying, operation of a UAV and RC certificate etc. I have been doing a lot of research, discussions and self educating with regard to safely flying these. When I read or see competition (intended or not competition) as to distance and altitude records - it scares me. I take the time to hopefully point out some things that others should be aware of and one of those things regarding the flight records and videos being posted on the internet is probably not the wisest thing to do.
I won't go into insulting or any name calling Davphys as that resolves nothing and truly you don't deserve that kind of response from me regardless of how you interpret me (not that you asked for a response). I don't mind one bit having someone bash my opinion on anything - however attacking ones character just isn't something I do.
There's an old saying I like - "don't confuse my personality or character with my attitude - my personality and character is who I am - my attitude - depends on who you are"! Since my attitude on this post is respectful toward you - it means, I see you as pissed off for certain, but likely a decent enough guy.
Having and respectfully voicing a difference of opinion is healthy and educational and I do respect that with everyone. I do also apologize since I obviously upset you with my previous post (which was not my intent). Take care and safe flying.
Edit: by the way its "eh" - not "ay" up here - lol.