Edition: Model Aviation - 2024/11
Page Numbers: 119
Portrait of Randy Gibson wearing an AMA cap

District VII

Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Wisconsin

Portrait of Randy Gibson wearing an AMA cap

Hello District VII members. As you read this, I hope you are staying warm. Soon the holidays will be upon us, along with snow. Indoor flying will be in full force to keep those skills up, and before you know it, the warm weather will be back.

The past summer was a full season with many events. Thank you, District VII, for your excitement and passion. Allow me to continue with updates of events held throughout the summer.

I will start with the Gladwin Area R/C Club in Gladwin, Michigan. I have had the opportunity to fly with the members, and have been to other events they have had, but unfortunately, I was not able to make it to their event this year. Scott Armstead was kind enough to send an update. Take it away, Scott.

The Gladwin club had a great turnout, given the circumstances between the weather and other big events taking place elsewhere in the state. It was a fun time, with pilots from other clubs in attendance, including members of the Bay City club and the Cadillac Area Modelers Society. Our oldest club member, Al Jerome, attended.

Pilot standing beside a red model airplane on a table

Thank you for the update, Scott, and it’s great to hear that Al is still enjoying the hobby at 91 years young. A question to Scott, were the pastries still as good this year? In the past, they had the most wonderful pastries for sale at the event, and there’s nothing better than good flying and great food.

Next up was the 2024 Harvest Huckfest. It was four days of flying fun in Marshalltown, Iowa, hosted by the Marshalltown RC Flyers club.

The 2024 Harvest Huckfest was an incredible celebration of RC flying that brought together 41 registered pilots and countless spectators. Thanks to the hard work of Tom Eaton and a dedicated team of volunteers, the event was a resounding success, providing thrilling displays of skill and camaraderie.

Pilots brought a variety of aircraft, from large, gas-powered airplanes and aerobatic 3D performers to classic warbirds and EDF jets. One of the event’s highlights was the group gaggles, where Timbers and AeroScouts flew in synchronized formations, demonstrating impressive coordination and teamwork.

Adding a special touch to this year’s event was the participation of the Fahn family, representing three generations of RC pilots. Randy Fahn, his son, Jake Fahn, and grandson, Maverick Fahn, took part in the Huckfest, showcasing their passion for the hobby. Watching them fly together was an inspiring reminder of how RC flying can bring families together across generations.

Two people with model aircraft at an outdoor flying event

As the sun set, the field was lit up for night flying, with both gas and electric aircraft taking to the sky. This illuminated spectacle provided a breathtaking display for the spectators and added another layer of excitement to the event.

The raffle was another big hit, with prizes, including a 91-inch Extreme Flight Slick and a GP 76 engine, generously donated by Joe Lewis at Aviator Plus.

The 2024 Harvest Huckfest was more than just a flying event—it was a celebration of community, family, and the shared love of the RC flying hobby. With a lively crowd and thrilling night flights, the event was unforgettable.

I look forward to seeing what next year’s Harvest Huckfest will bring as this fantastic tradition continues to soar!

Thanks to the District VII members submitting reports. It is excellent to see so many activities being held. Don’t forget to send updates throughout the winter, as I know many indoor events will be held, as well as charitable events, during the holiday season. Continue to share the passion!

Randy Gibson

Vice President
amadistrictvii@modelaircraft.org
503 Mall Ct. # 289, Lansing MI 48912
(317) 698-4346

ASSOCIATE VICE PRESIDENTS

Bruce Baier, Oshkosh WI; (920) 233-1127; buzssr@gmail.com

Bud Gorman, Knife River MN; (218) 834-5797; bgorman@frontiernet.net

Bob Johnson, Fond du Lac WI; (920) 922-6705; bobj54935@yahoo.com

Mark Robotti, Lindstrom MN; (651) 257-6792; mgrobotti@frontier.com

Dell Shannon, Osceola IA (641) 342-4278; dellt.t.shannon@gmail.com

Len Todd, Baldwin MI; (907) 903-3569; lentodd@att.net

Peter G. Van Heusden, Bloomfield Hills MI; (248) 515-1071; petervh@malibutech.com

Chris Sterner, Greendale WI; (414) 349-0981; sternerc6854@gmail.com

Kent Woods, Ames IA; (641) 751-7126; woods229@msn.com

EVENT SANCTION COORDINATORS

Michael J. Haller (RC), Fond du Lac WI; (920) 979-9452; mike.haller.60@gmail.com

Marc Warwashana (CL), Whitmore Lake MI; (734) 223-1243; whellieman@gmail.com

AMA Headquarters (FF), (765) 287-1256, ext. 252; competition@modelaircraft.org

FREQUENCY COORDINATORS

Al Schwartz, Roseville MN; (651) 633-2286; alberts@comcast.net

Pete Waters, Northville MI; (248) 924-0223; petewaters@charter.net