District V
Tony Stillman, District V Vice President; [email protected]
I attended the Southeast Electric Flight Festival (SEFF) held in Americus, Georgia, on May 2–3. This year’s event had more than 300 pilots entered for the celebration of electric flight.
All types of models were flown during the event. I especially enjoyed the advances that have been made in the electric-jet arena. Bob Violett Models demoed several jets and they were most impressive. If you were ever interested in jets but didn’t want to deal with fuel issues, you should really take a look at these.
During the event, Cal Orr and I worked to help the event pull off a successful Guinness Book of World Records attempt. The goal was to break the current record of 49 RC airplanes flying at one time.
Details of the record attempt:
- A mix of 72 MHz, 50 MHz, 53 MHz, and 2.4 GHz systems was used.
- A new record of 100 models was set on Saturday afternoon between rain showers.
- Only models under 20 ounces flying weight were allowed to participate.
- Pilots launched models and 100 completed the required one-minute flight time to achieve the goal.
- Notably, with more than 100 models in the air, only one mid-air collision occurred.
While this was a milestone, it was only a small part of the event. It was obvious that everyone had a good time and plenty of flying was done by all. Photos contributed by Blake Blakenship.
A sad incident marred the SEFF event. On Saturday, May 3, AMA members Darryl Garrison, Ryan Jones, and Brian King were killed in a small plane crash on their way back to Bessemer, Alabama, after spending the day at the event. Our thoughts and prayers go out to their families.
Darryl Garrison (1966–2008)
The Alabaster RC Association has lost one of its most dedicated members and a tremendous friend, not only to so many of us but to our hobby as well. Darryl will be remembered for his eagerness to help with field-improvement projects at our field, his willingness to teach newer students the thrill of flying radio-control aircraft, and his work with young people in our ongoing educational activities. More than anything else, he will be remembered as a great friend to many of us and a remarkable young man.
A trust fund for Darryl’s two children has been established:
- The Elizabeth & Anna Garrison Trust
- Account # 1010193604373
- Wachovia Bank
- North Shelby Financial Center
- 3350 Pelham Parkway, Pelham, AL 35124
Ryan Hunter Jones (1979–2008)
The West Alabama Aeromodelers have lost a great member and friend. Ryan was a vibrant, upbeat person to all who knew him. He was one of those people who brought a smile to your face just thinking about him; in person, his big grin was contagious. Ryan was always eager to help a club member in need and to assist with any club activity. He could be depended on like clockwork and was always the first to arrive where he was expected. Ryan was great with visitors, especially the young children who would come out to the field—children were drawn to him like a magnet. The world has lost a kind soul and the club a true asset and friend.
Robert Brian King (1966–2008)
Robert Brian King, 42, leaves behind his wife Traci and three daughters. Brian was a youth pastor for many years in the Church of Christ before entering the business world. He sold recreational boats for several years, then became a partner with Grimaud Enterprises as a Precision Tune Auto Care franchise developer in Alabama and Georgia. Brian started flying airplanes when he was a teenager. Piloting his beautiful 1948 Beechcraft Bonanza was something he loved very much.
Transcribed from original scans by AI. Minor OCR errors may remain.
