Canadian Museum of Flight and Transportation
Storage site: 13527 Crescent Road, Surrey, B.C., V4A 2W1 (604)531-2465, 278-9804
Season’s Greetings
A LITTLE EARLY? Not really. This will be our last opportunity wish you all a very happy holiday season.
It’s not too early to get your Christmas shopping done, and you’ll find lots of neat stuff in these pages. If you have no one to buy gifts for, treat yourself.
OUR VOLUNTEERS
CMFT continues to grow. Membership is nearing 900. More items are being added to the permanet collection, the Library and Archives are improving daily, and bigger and better things are yet to come.
Our single biggest asset is our volunteers. Without volunteers, none of this could have taken place, and the operation of the CMFT would grind to a halt. We should all be proud of the way we are making it happen. Well done!
Our museum is still very much in the embryo stage, and consquently, we are not able to utilize some of the volunteer talent that has been offered to us. We simply are not ready for some of the “high tech offers of assistance. Please continue to make your of fers, but think about expanding your offer to include the more mundane work that is heaped up waiting to be done.
CMFT placed a small notice in the “Buzzer” appealing for volunteers, as well as with the Surrey and White Rock Volunteer Co-Ordinating centres, and a number of offers of assistance have been received. It is gratifying that even non-members care enough to become involved. We are proud to have them with us.
Whatever your reasons for volunteering, you give unsparingly of your time and talent, and we thank you.
We know you get tired of seeing the same old appeals for help, but here it is again.
NEXT GENERAL MEETING Thursday, Jan. 17th 8:00 p.m. 13527 Crescent Rd. Surrey, B.C. 531-2465
SEE PAGE 6 FOR POSTERS AND MUCH MORE
LANCASTER PP687 82 SEA HARRIER J23
The most urgent work outstanding includes:
CLERICAL WORK IN THE LIBRARY –
It would be nice if someone with a sound knowledge of aircraft could come fairly regularly to supervise, and to check categorization of books, and code the books for computer input. But, if you have no experience of any kind, plea come anyway. There are thousands of magase azines and trade newspapers that need to be bound, and thousands of hard-cover books requiring plastic protective jackets. We need someone with neat printing to label all the books as the stickers we are using are drop- in off. No, it can’t be done at home. Sorry. One or two days a week, or even a few hours a week would be great.
OFFICE ASSISTANT –
Scope to use all your ofice and administrative abilities here. Every job from filing right on up to proposal writing. But, if you are milling or unable to commit regular time, please don’t ask for jobs that require a lot of training. There are many, many jobs that don’t require any training at all, and are just as important to the museum.
MEMBERSHIP SECRETARY
The job of keeping track of memberships and the mailing list goes on and on, and requires about 6 hours a week Mostly done on computer, its easy to learn and the typing can be of the onefinger kind for this job.
COMPUTER PROGRAMMER.
Someone to come in on a regular basis to with the Museum’s Kaypro 10 hard disk, using CP/M and 3 Basics. Or, someone thoroughly familiar with DBase II data management program. Our long-time volunteer programmer has job commitments which prevent him from spending the time to keep up, and the computer sits idle too much.
PHOTO COLLECTION –
continues to grow and is in need of cataloging and indexing, and mat ching of prints to negatives.
RESTORATION –
Someone familiar with fabric, dope and synthetic paint to come in an instruct in the technique. The Dagling (Zogling) glider is ready for cover and we need an “expert” to direct the work. Next, the Norseman.
“CANADA MANPOWER” PROJECT
has been applied for but no word expected on approval or denial for another month. Project, if approved, is slated to start Jan. 1. to complete rest- 12th. oration and cover and paint the Norseman. If you are an experienced fabric man, and not drawing U.I.C. benefits, please send in your application. This will be a paid position, eligible to build up U.I.C. benefits.
SHOW CASES
Still needed, also materials to build such as plywood, arborite, plexiglass, lucite, glass, metal or plastic trims, hardware and such. If you’re a cabinet maker, and would like tohelp out, please call.
POSTER BINS
The old bins all went over to Vancouver Island for permanent use there. New ones are needed here, and soon.
DISPLAY BOARD MODIFICATION
CMFT has been given an excellent plywood/arborite display system which needs a bit of modifying to be flexible…it needs feet.
AIR CADET PARTICIPATION –
Through the co-operation of Gordon Fritsch and Jeff Cooper, a number of Air Cadets have been coming in on weekends to help out in the Library. We’re pleased to have them with us and hope that other squadrons will become involved.
SATURDAY WORK BEES –
Dismal turnout, so air- sold for peanuts at garage sales. Ensure planes are still out in the weather that by that those items of sentimental value to you and thus to others who share your love of flying and transportation will be saved for future gnerations. Tax benefits can be available now, if you prefer. We’ll be pleased to give you information about it. now should be tucked inside, Lots of work still to be done in rearranging material. Workbees are Saturday 9:30-3:00. Bring boots and warm clothing, and phone by 9:00 if you’re coming. We really need you!!
NEWS UPDATE FAIREY BATTLE-
Some years ago, CMFT purchased some Fairey Battle cockpit section pieces and a centre section. When member Rob Chanona went to pick them up, it was discovered that some parts had disappeared. Roy Briscoe has just returned from trying to resolve the problem. He was succesful in locating most of the parts but some are still missing. We are interested in acquiring more Battle parts, regardless of condition.
NORTH AMERICAN HARVARD –
Now is the time for all men (and women) to come to the aid of the Museum. We have $800 in our Harvard Fund (thanks to Ted Harris, James Kenney and Vic Russell), but we need another $4,000 to – buy and transport a Harvard airframe that has been optioned for the collection. As with all other specific target donations, your name will appear on a plaque on or near the airplane when it is exhibited. We know times are tough, but CMFT really needs a Harvard, and while this one lacks an engine and other parts and is slightly damaged, it is a good beginning. How about sending along $100, or $50. or $20. to enable us to complet the purchase of this airplane. Deadline for your donation to arrive here is Dec.
B.C. AVIATION COUNCIL –
Are looking for new members. Enclosed with this newsletter is a brochure/application form for membership. In recent years the BCAC has not truly been representing all of private and commercial aviation. They want to change all that and the only way it can be done is to have more members provide input on just how theBCAC can serve the public better; and who are willing to work for changes and improvements.
POST OFFICE PERFORMANCE –
Some mebers report that “Mini newsletter” Sept. 22 has just been received. CMFT pays first class postage to get your mailings out to you fast, so we should not settle for fourth class service. Complain in writing to the Post Office if you don’t get your mailings in reasonable time.
BEQUESTS
It is a simple matter to dedicate items to the CMST on your death. It is sad to see photos, keepsakes, and mementos of irreplaceable value to CMFT, but of no value to beneficiaries, get hauled to the dump or
**1984 MAINTENANCE SYMPOSIUM
The symposium, sponsored by the Pacific Vocational Institute, will be held at the Richmond Inn, Richmond, B.C. February 16,17,18. NO CAN ATTEND? AME’s, learner AME,operators.
- TOPICS: Many, including new wiring systems, computers, composite materials, etc.
- COST: $30. including 24 days seminar program, reception, coffee intermissions, lunces. (No breakfasts or banquet)
- HOW TO ENROLL: Write or phone P.V.I., 3650 Willingdon Ave., Burnaby, B.C. VSG3H1 phone (604)434-5711, or Sea Island Campus, 4440 Stark St., Richmond, BC (604)278-4831
VICTORIA HARBOUR PUBLIC MARKET
The operators of the Harbour Public Market, at 1810 Store St., Victoria, B.C. have made a very desireable display space available to CMFT until further notice. This is the first opportunity we have had to set up a permanent display. It is an excellent opportunity and we intend to make sure that their faith in CMFT is justified.
The Vancouver Island members have been working long hours to ready a display which is planned to be open on weeekends initially, and daily, if enough volunteers come forward t man the booth.
Make a special point of visiting the display Stay to help if you can. Grand Opening for the Market is Nov.26th and 27th.
All the museum gift and souvenir items are for sale there, and with Christmas coming up, its a perfect way to solve some of your gift problems and help the museum at the same time.
**HATS OFF TO CP AIR & P.W.A.
Roy Briscoe recently travelled to Montreal and return on Museum business via CP Air. He reports their service was excellent. Aircraft were clear and comfortable (DC-10); with terrific cabin and meal service. le recommend that any of our members consider using CP Air services for intended trips.
Ed Zalesky recently travelled to Calgary, Edmonton and return to Vancouver via PA on their new 767-S. Wow! What a nice airplane. PUA cabin and food service excellent on these short haul (approximately 1 hour) flights. Give them a try!
VANCOUVER ISLAND UPDATE
Peter Knowles is now Acting Chairman for the Vancouver Island Branch, taking over from Dave Jones who has resigned. Pete phoned Nov.19 with a progress report on the Harbour Public Market display.He said “We at CMFT may be poor in dollars, bit we are rich in talent and with full heart. The guys least expected have turned out with full measure of help in Victoria towards completion of the Habour Public Market display”
Now this I think really says it all as to why we at CMFT are successful while some expect us to wither and die. Our hats are off in salute to all of your members and volunteers in the Victoria area. Our sincere thanks. Your efforts will make this a successful showcase and futher establish CMFT’s credibility.
** VULCAN BOMBER “SCAM”
By now, most of you have heard about the offer” of an R.A.F. Vulcan bomber flown to your destination for $10,000. Ministry of Defence in Britain advise, 1) Vulcans are for sale by tender only, after personal inspection, 2) they will not deliver one across the “pond” to North America, 3) no Vulcans have been donated. .
This should put to rest rumours to the contrary. Letters are on file with complete details.
NEWSLETTER QUARTERLY
Publication due about the end of January. Send in any stories or articles to Editor Rob Kennedy, c/o the Museum
The story by Lock Madill in the October quarterly brought many comments the best. response yet. Expect to read more about our history as recalled by the pioneers them selves.
**CORNELL PROJECT REALLY GOING AHEAD
Gordon Dann reports that work on the Coris in high year now, with one full time person, and several part time volunteers. The airplane is located in Clearbrook. Prone Gordon at 859-6905 if you want to help.
** RESTORATION PROGRAM
The VAMPIRE and the BOLINGBROKE cabin sectare now in the shop as the primary restoration projects underway, with MONDAY AND WEDNESDAY evenings set aside for work.If you want to get involved in the restoration work call Dave Smith at 273-8029 (Vampire) or Wayne Cromie at 277-3394 (Boly). If you are not able to make contact with Dave (quite likely) come out about 7:00 p.m. on Monday night anyway. If enough people get involved, Saturday work can be organized as well.
** STORAGE SITE CLOSED FOR TOURS FOR THE WINTER
As of Oct. 24th, the storage site is closed to casual visitors, although the library and Gift Shop open from 8 – 4:30. It’s wet, cold, to give anything, but, some of you are well and nearly all the airplanes are tucked away, so except for very unusual circumstances, please do not send visitors who expect to be shown around until MARCH 15, when we will again be open every weekend for visits.
**ED BATCHELOR’S 50 YEARS OF AVIATION
A reception to honour Ed Batchelor was held on the marking of his 50 years of aviation. Ed has more than 25,000 hours, of which over 20,000 has been instructor time. When you consider that that is mostly made up of 30 and 40 minute flights, that is a heck of an achievement. Our sincerest congratulations to this extraordinary and much loved man. As hundreds of students can attest, he really knows his stuff. Ed has been with Skyway Air Services since the first years, and is very much a part of our aviation history. Watch coming issues of the Newsletter Quarterly for his story.
** FORT LANGLEY AIRPORT / GRANVILLE ISLAND
CMFT will be mounting a major campaign to raise money for the Fort Langley purchase, and for the Granvile Island building renovation. In the meantime, let’s all of us work to swell those funds. Our very survival depends on having these locations as permanent home and display areas.
Year-end is fast approaching, and your donations, to be tax-deductible for this year, must reach us Dec. 31st. We accept donations of cash or goods useful in restoration of airplanes, maintenance of buildings and yard, renovation of the Granville Island building, store fixtures, display fixtures, office furniture and equipment, folding chairs, tables, automotive equipment..almost anything will be useful in time.
we can give tax-deductible receipts for the fair market value of these items. If you have nothing kicking around collecting dust, then urge your friends and neighbors to participate in CMFT’s efforts in collecting, storing, restoring and displaying our aviation heritage.
Send in your cash donation or write or call re a donation of goods. Page 7 incorporates a donor form if you prefer to use that.
Think about it. We are well aware that money is scarce, and mnay of you can’t afford able to help out. How about it? Perhaps give up a couple of those expensive evenings on the town, or buy a few less tapes, or pass up that new pair of shoes you don’t really need anyway. The money that goes to CMFT benefits all of us, our children, and our children’s children. Yes! It’s an investment in our future, and well worth giving up a few frills now, in order to help out.
NOV. 17th GENERAL MEETING
Nearly 50 people turned out for the regular meeting. The reports and business were quickly dealt with and it was on to enjoy Gordon Peter’s excellent slide presentation on the EAA Museums at Hales Corners and Oshkosh, Wisc. Mike Macgowan showed slides on the recovery of the Blackburn Shark engine from 12′ of muskeg near Prince Rupert a few weeks ago. There will be more on the salvaging of the remains of this rare airplane in coming Quarterlies. In the meantime, our thanks go out to the many organizations and individuals who made it possible. The May expedition consisted on John de Visser, Fred Gardhom, Ron Prud’homme, Jimmy Mufford, and Monty Montezuma. The second expedition, to get the engine, included John de Visser, Mike Macgowan, Kerry Niska, and Bill Reed.
It was hard and dirty work, and we owe a debt of gratitude to these men. We also thank the many organizations, which, through their co-operation, made it possible to accomplish the task at all. Thank you Canadian Coast Guard, Vancouver Island Helicopters, B.C. Tel.,City Transfer (Prince Rupert),Rivtow and the Lax Kw’alaams Indian Band.