THE CALGARY BALLOON CLUB 1111 MEMORIAL DRIVE N.W.

CALGARY, ALBERTA CANADA T2N 3E4

CHAMPAGN-E-VENTS

MAY 2014

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MAILING ADDRESS:

c/o The Calgary Area Outdoor Council 1111 Memorial Drive N.W. Calgary, Alberta T2N 3E4 FOR RECORDED CLUB INFORMATION

Phone: 403-537-3016, press # 5 WEBSITE: – http://www.calgaryballoonclub.ca/ MEETING HALL ADDRESS:

Aero Space Museum 4629 McCall Way N.E. Calgary, Alberta T2E 8A5 MEETINGS:

Second Wednesday of each month, (except July & August) @ 7:30 p.m.

2014 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

President Norm Gold 403-293-6129

President-Elect Jonathan Perron-Clow 587-215-5019

Past President Debbie Sobb 403-248-4032

Vice President Richard Clark 403-288-2978

Secretary Kendra Michaud 587-226-6989

Treasurer Dirk Luxen 403-992-2194

Director-At-Large Graham Hack 403-651-6368

COMMITTEE CHAIRS

C.A.O.C. Representative Jennifer Lowndes 403-289-7624

Chief Pilot Linda Then 403-276-6507

Chief Flight Instructor Del Michaud 403-246-8332

Education Richard Clark 403-288-2978

Membership/ Email-Around Graham Hack 403-651-6368

Merchandizing Cat Tanton 403-240-1491

Newsletter Editor Edward E. Tower

Scrapbook Jean Clark 403-288-2415

Rural Events Coordinator Brant Leatherdale 403-475-6800

CHAMPAGN-E-VENTS is the primary communications medium of the Calgary Balloon Club. Opinions presented

in contributions, articles, letters and editorials are solely the opinions of the authors and do not express the official

views of the Calgary Balloon Club. Published by Reidham & Wheap Press, Calgary, Alberta. Copyright 2014

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EDITORIAL NOTES:

Welcome to the second issue of CHAMPGN-E-VENTS for the year.

Thank you to those members who forwarded submissions for this edition. There were

some new contributors, adding varied subject matter and individual style. This makes

for an interesting and informative read for everyone. Thank you all!

The members of the newsletter team willingly give of their time to bring everything

together. Eva, Jean, Jennifer and Jody have all been actively involved in this process

for many years. In preparing this edition we worked in small groups as it was not

possible, given our own schedules, to arrange to meet as a whole. I would like to

extend a special thank you to each of these members for their commitment to this

ongoing project.

It has been a long, wet spring but hopefully we will have some good flying weather in the

coming months. If you get out for a flight or attend an event, remember to share your

photos, Balloon Stories or something special that you learned with our readers.

An updated Club membership roster has been compiled and will be circulated to all

members. Please check that your contact information is accurate. If any changes or

corrections are needed, please contact Graham H. Additional printed copies of the

roster will be available at Club meetings.

The next CHAMPAGN-E-VENTS will be ready for distribution in August. Deadline for submissions will be July 18, 2014. Have a great summer!

Heather

[Front Cover Design - Thanks to Ralph Dowson]

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PRESIDENT’S REPORT – April 2014

I heard a strange rumour the other day – someone said it was spring! I find that somewhat hard to believe with below seasonal temperatures and snow still in the forecast (as of mid April). The above average snow fall this past winter season, along with the wildly fluctuating temperatures, have left all of the fields a mess. Many areas are flooded because the ground has not thawed enough to allow the melting snow to be absorbed or can’t drain out of low lying areas. With our Drumheller weekend coming up in less than a couple of weeks we may find it difficult to find areas from which to launch and even land. My fingers are crossed, hoping that the fields will dry out and improve in the next week or so and we will be able to get one or more flights in. If you have not had a chance to check out our new website (calgaryballoonclub.ca) please do so. Shane and Emma have been working hard to develop something that is new, exciting and different from our old website. Many new features are being incorporated to allow the site to be interactive for the Club members. One new addition is a “blog page”. This is where members can add comments, add links to other ballooning events, and post photos for others to see and comment on. Click on the “News” tab to view the contents. There are a couple of items posted already. Please note that if you post something on the blog, it may take several days to appear as someone has to approve of any posts. Details on how to post items to the “News” section will be sent out soon. In the meantime you can send your material to me and I will post it for you. We now have a “Members Only” section where you will need a password to access additional features. The current password was sent out in the March meeting announcements. In this section of our website you can view past copies of the Club newsletters and past general meeting presentations, check to see if anyone has booked the Club balloon and who the flight coordinator is for a specific month, find a list of potential crew volunteers and post your photos, which will eventually show up in the events section under “Galleries”. Some points on submitting photos:

Try to keep the file size as small as possible. Larger file sizes take much longer to load and view. We may need to resize your photos before they can be posted. This may take some time from when you submit your pictures, so please be patient.

We will try and group related photos by events. So if a number of members submit photos from the April Drumheller event they will all get posted together in a single gallery of photos.

Some cameras and cell phones have a specific setting for photos to be posted on websites. This keeps the file size small and manageable making it easier to post on the website.

As we continue to develop the new website we will be documenting and posting the various steps on how members can navigate the website and update or post items when required. If you have any comments or suggestions regarding the new website please contact one of the executive members or mention it at one of the general meetings. We appreciate any and all feedback. Our goal is to keep the website as current and up to date as possible so we can keep members informed as to what is happening within the Club and about other ballooning activities.

Norm

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SPEAKERS February 12/14 TC Update - Lenora Crane spoke at this meeting on several regulatory items, including: the criteria for a Special Flight Operating Certificate (SFOC) and a review of the various airspace classifications. She also reminded the pilots that their licences have an expiry date and that it is important to start the renewal process at least 60 days in advance. March 12/14 Battle Creek, MI – 2012 World Championship – Jonathan Perron-Clow spoke about his role as weather observer on the Canadian team at this event. He found there to be quite a learning curve; from operating the theodolite, to the whole competitive process. On some days, all he did was collect and transmit data, never actually seeing the competition crew during the event. April 9/14 Early Days of Ballooning in Alberta – Del Michaud brought history and humour to this meeting as he described the formation of the Alberta Free Balloonists Society (AFBS), the Calgary Balloon Club (CBC) and the early (1970’s) history of ballooning in Calgary and Edmonton. Much of learning to fly a balloon was based on experience – you experienced it and learned not to do it again! It was noted that both equipment and techniques have evolved for the better.

Calling Calgary Balloon Club Members….

Have you joined our Meetup.com group yet? In order for us to reach more

people on Meetup.com, we need our existing members to sign up. Please go

to www.meetup.com and search Calgary Balloon Club. Submit your form and

you will be approved.

Please help promote our Meetup.com group by printing off a tear-away flyer and posting it in your local

community center, at your mailbox, grocery store or wherever you can. You can find this flyer on our

Meetup.com page under the tab “More” and choose “Files” and print.

Thank you!

Tara L.

Welcome To New Members:

Lyle Patton and Zena Woron-Quinn. We are pleased to add you to the membership and look forward to seeing

you at Club events and activities.

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Calgary Balloon Club Breakfast at…

Wainwright Hotel

Heritage Park

On Sunday, February 2, 2014 approximately 30 CBC members

stepped back in time and went to Heritage Park to enjoy a

wonderful home-style breakfast buffet at the Wainwright Hotel.

We had our own private dining section which was perfect for

everyone visiting and sharing some great balloon stories. After

breakfast, several members wandered over to the Gasoline Alley

Museum and checked out some exhibits from the 1930’s, ‘40’s

and ‘50’s. It was yet another successful social event for the Club.

Tara

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2014 Vernon Winter Carnival

We would like to thank the Vernon Winter Carnival Society, the Balloon Committee and the Balloonmeister for

putting on this wonderful event (maybe next year warmer weather would be appreciated). The event started

off on Thursday with the “Meet and Greet” with wine, beer and pizza. (Then there was more wine and more

wine. Kendra and I would like to thank all the people that looked after us that evening!)

On Friday morning the weather gods were looking

after us. The flight was delayed for a few hours but we

did manage to chase David (Gleed) who was in the

hare balloon. Friday night was the annual glow, which

was successful once again. Saturday morning was a

short hare and hound and some of the pilots landed

before getting to David as they didn’t want to fly over

the town. Debbie went with Ron Martin and they

went for a flight over town. They landed in a

schoolyard and had to get Stan’s wonderful toboggan

to carry the balloon out.

Saturday evening we got weathered-out which left time to attend some of the fun events going on around

Vernon for the Carnival.

Sunday morning was the flag grab. Stan flew with Ron and

they were closest to the flag but made an error and touched

the ground prior to the pole – too bad as they were only

inches away! Del had a case of food poisoning so didn’t make

the flight. As it turned out, Cliff was the successful winner of

the event and the coveted Moose Award went to John

Klempner for doing a touch and go on the Walmart roof.

I think the committee had a tough time deciding, as there

were plenty of other candidates like Jamie, Searle, John P.

and Ron.

Looking forward to next year and

warmer weather!

Debbie and Kendra

Thanks to Dirk L. & Heather C. for the photos.

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CALGARY BOAT & SPORTSMEN’S SHOW

The Calgary Boat & Sportsmen’s Show took place February 6 – 9, 2014 at the BMO Centre at Stampede

Park. Our goals were to promote the sport of hot air ballooning as well as increase our membership. We

talked with many people and gave out approximately 250 brochures and balloon pins. We had a draw

for a hot air balloon ride for two and had 172 people enter the draw. From these leads, we were able to

email 109 people to reinforce what the Calgary Balloon Club is all about and invite them to future

monthly meetings.

This was a much larger tradeshow than the Club has participated in previously and required a lot of

paperwork, time, energy and muscle. It was a little more challenging to pull it off because it fell the

same weekend as the Vernon Winter Carnival, which several of our members attended. Thank you to

Linda, Walt, Shelagh, Graham, Paul, Drew, Susan, Jonathan, Dirk, Norm and Brant for working the show

and setting up and tearing down the display. Also thank you to Linda and Zena for supplying some

beautiful photographs for our display and to Brant for providing a balloon ride for the winner of

the draw.

Tara

CONGRATULATIONS TO:

Cliff S. for being the big winner at the

Vernon Winter Carnival.

Graham H. for making his first flight in his

own balloon and beginning pilot training.

Kate (Luxen) and husband Jesse Hunter on

the arrival of their daughter, Maren.

Sandra R. on setting another new

ballooning world record.

THANKS TO:

Our recent guest speakers: Lenora Crane,

Jonathan Perron-Clow and Del Michaud.

Norm G. and Tara L. for coordinating the

Heritage Park Breakfast.

Del M. for accepting the position of Chief

Flight Instructor of the Club.

All of those working behind the scenes on

the Club’s new website.

A MAN IS LOST. . . A man in a hot air balloon realized he was lost. He reduced altitude and spotted a woman below. He descended a bit more and shouted, "Excuse me, can you help me? I promised a friend I would meet him an hour ago, but I don't know where I am." The woman below replied, "You're in a hot air balloon hovering approximately 30 feet above the ground. You're between 40 and 41 degrees north latitude and between 59 and 60 degrees west longitude." "You must be an engineer," said the balloonist. "I am," replied the woman, "How did you know?" "Well," answered the balloonist, "everything you told me is, technically correct, but I've no idea what to make of your information, and the fact is I'm still lost. Frankly, you've not been much help at all. If anything, you've delayed my trip." The woman below responded, "You must be in Management." "I am," replied the balloonist, "but how did you know?" "Well," said the woman, "You don't know where you are or where you're going. You have risen to where you are due to a large quantity of hot air. You made a promise which you've no idea how to keep, and you expect people beneath you to solve your problems. The fact is you are in exactly the same position you were in before we met, but now, somehow, it's my fault." //

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Sylvan Lake Flight – February 15, 2014

After so many years of being weathered

out at Sylvan Lake, the last couple of years

have seen successful flights. This year,

things were a bit unsure: the weather, the

lake and the amount of snow in the fields.

The weather turned out to be perfect, the

lake was frozen where we needed it to be

and the balloons stayed on the lake,

keeping the pack-up out of the deep snow.

Seven balloons made it out to Sylvan Lake

this year. Del, Richard, Garry, Cliff, Brant

and Walt were each piloting their balloons

while Dale did a first training flight with

Graham in his balloon.

We met at the Humpty’s in Sylvan and decided it was a great day to fly, so took off for the west side of

the lake where all the ice fishing shacks are gathered.

The day was perfect for flying. The balloons flew north slowly enough up the lake so that the crews had

time to head west and further west and west some more before finally turning north to come around

the lake. A short trip down onto the lake and we arrived just as the balloons were landing.

After pack-up was complete, everyone gathered on the lake for

the post flight celebrations with many congratulations to Graham

for a great first training flight and to both him and Laura for

adding to the ballooning family.

Photos Thanks To: Colin H. Dirk L. & Linda T.

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After the post flight festivities, everyone was, of

course, hungry so we decided to hit Boston Pizza

in Sylvan. We arrived about 2:00 p.m., shortly

after the lunch crowd had departed. With at least

30 of us, they were a bit overwhelmed. Much of

their staff was on lunch break and it took about a

half hour to get us all seated. As usual, we all

helped as much as we could. Always an enjoyable

way to complete our day; we finally left Sylvan

around 4:00 p.m.

Another great flight in Sylvan - good times with good friends, looking forward to the next flight to do it

all over again. It never gets old!

Congratulations to our newest member, Al Toews. Al has been crewing and flying with us around Raven

for the past few years. He decided to join and now gets all the Club news. Welcome Al!

Linda

Remember when we asked you to identify this young man???

In the last issue the question was posed. Tara Leatherdale was the first person to submit a correct answer and others followed. There may be a few of you though that are still scratching your heads. Just take a look at the flight instructor with Graham H. in the photo on the preceding page and you will have the answer!

[Thanks to Dave K. and Debbie S. for locating and submitting this photo. > ]

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CBC SUMMER BARBECUE

Where: The grounds of Cat & Searle’s Rec. Centre

When: Thursday, August 7th

Bring: Your own meat to barbecue and a dish to share.

Your choice of beverage and a plate & utensils.

More details will be available closer to this event.

Elections Update - On March 30th, 2014 the Annual General Meetings of the AFBS and CBA

were held in Calgary. Each organization elected a new Executive for the coming term.

AFBS (Alberta Free Balloonists Society)

President Garry Lockyer

Vice President Lory Desrosiers

Treasurer Cliff Skocdopole

Secretary Searle Sheldon

Director at Large Debbie Sobb

Director South Del Michaud

Director Edmonton Stan Wereschuk

Director (North) Grande Prairie Linda Then

CBA (Canadian Balloon Association)

President Sandra Rolfe

Vice President John Klempner

Treasurer Jamie Kinghorn

Secretary Mary Lalonde

Directors Miles Gibson Garry Lockyer

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Another Successful Night Flight (As posted on Facebook)

The CBC's annual Night Flight was pulled together as a spur-of-

the-moment arrangement two hours before dawn this morning,

so we were pleased when almost all the regulars were able to

show up. Despite the unseasonal snowfall, four balloons

launched from the usual place and flew into the sunrise.

Afterwards, we celebrated with a sumptuous champagne brunch,

courtesy of an impromptu passenger who prefers to remain

anonymous.

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THE APRIL 1ST ANNUAL NIGHT FLIGHT 2014 and an explanation of the rather odd photo on the balloon Facebook page!

It was mentioned at the April meeting that the photo of the balloons flying the night flight all had their strobes flashing in unison.

We ourselves noticed this rather unusual phenomenon and were quite puzzled by it, so much so that we decided to do some research into it.

After much diligence we finally tracked someone down at the East Anglia University who was able to shed a little light on the oddness of it.

It seems that sometimes cell phone towers can interrupt certain micro- waves during the hours of darkness that can affect some electronic devices in the vicinity.

And in recent years, because of global warming in the upper reaches, the frequencies of the astro waves penetrating the earth’s atmosphere near a cell phone tower can cause this rather unique and interesting behaviour of lights, especially strobes, which are rather odd in themselves.

Those of us flying that night just happened to notice this and a crewmember photographed it after a request that we not “burn” for twenty seconds, hence the rather unusual/un-natural photo.

The scientists at East Anglia are planning to do more research into this phenomenon and are trying to replicate the conditions in the laboratory.

Those who missed the night flight surely deprived themselves of a unique occurrence.

See you ALL NEXT YEAR. Jennifer

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[ More information about Michael Glen can be found

at: http://www.rollingpilot.com/ and

http://www.gofundme.com/rollingpilot ]

LIFELONG LOVE AFFAIR WITH

BALLOONING KEEPS PARAPLEGIC’S SPIRITS

FLYING HIGH By Brian Nordli

[A version of this story was posted on lasvegassun.com at 2 a.m. Friday.]

Michael Glen is happiest when he’s in his red chair, floating thousands of feet in the air and looking down at the world shrinking beneath his feet. He’s untethered here, free from the limitations of the black wheelchair waiting for him on the ground. Nearly every morning, Glen lifts himself from his wheelchair to a custom chair attached to a six-story tall balloon – and escapes into the sky. He has taken it to 27 states, to Canada, to Mexico, over lakes and next to mountains. It has allowed him to go to schools in his black chair and inspired children, reminding them that they can overcome their limitations.

Glen, 39, is the world’s first paraplegic hot air balloon pilot. He is an ambassador for the Christopher Reeve Foundation, and he has used his passion to motivate others throughout the country. He flew with his brother and father this weekend at the inaugural Pahrump Balloon Festival.

“Ballooning gave me a chance to go out and live life”, said Glen, who lives in the Phoenix valley.

Growing up in Roswell, N.M., Glen dreamed of becoming a hot air balloon pilot like his father, who took him on his first ride at 2 weeks old. As a child, Glen often woke up before dawn with his younger brother to ride with his father’s balloon crew.

Glen showed off the family’s balloon at school and once took a balloon ride to a soccer game. By age 6, he knew how to fly the balloon. His family was ingrained in the ballooning community, and Glen was obsessed.

“There’s something about a balloon that brings out the 4-year-old in all of us”, Glen said. “There could be an 84-year-old man looking at a balloon all googly-eyed”.

Glen still had plans to pursue his dream of receiving his hot air balloon pilot’s license at 21 when he crashed his car. Injuries from the accident left him

paralyzed from the waist down. But the ballooning community kept his spirits afloat.

Members in the Albuquerque hot air balloon club who knew him or his father visited Glen every day after the crash. Their show of support motivated him. Within a week of his injury, he made a vow to earn his license.

“Through the support of balloonists and family friends, they made sure I stuck to my goals and achievements of everything I wanted to do and showed me I could do it,” Glen said.

They helped him through his roadblocks. The Federal Aviation Administration initially deemed him medically unfit to fly a hot air balloon because of his disability. Rather than give up, Glen had former FAA employees and balloonists send letters vouching for his physical ability and upper-body strength.

He also had to find a basket that allowed him to operate the controls sitting down. For that, he discovered the duo-chariot, which looks like a ski-lift chair and allows him to take one passenger up at a time.

Ten years later, he fulfilled all the requirements and became the world’s first licensed paraplegic hot air balloon pilot. Since then, he’s traveled across the United States with his father to balloon festivals and schools.

“(It’s a) cool experience to be able to tell people my story and inspire them that you can live life with a disability”, Glen said.

His story has motivated other paraplegics to follow in his steps. This year, Tim Ellison, who lives in the United Kingdom, became the second paraplegic to earn his pilot’s license.

“It was our family sport, our family hobby,” said Michael’s father, Bill Glen. “Now, Michael has become a motivational speaker ... for kids all over the world.”

This weekend, he had another chance to share his story to a new community and enjoy his escape into the skies.//

LAS VEGAS SUN – March 11, 2014 “Inspirations”

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Pass it on - Share the news! Free stuff is good!

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When an organization joins CAOC a copy of their monthly newsletter, Outdoor Update, is sent

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You are welcome to share this information with anyone else - even if they are not members of

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The Outdoor Update goes out regularly in the first week of each month. The mailing list is

totally confidential.

CAOC Website: www.caoc.ab.ca

FALL DRUMHELLER HAPPENING

Everyone Welcome!

September 12th – 14th 2014 Call the Travelodge for reservations: 1-403-823-5302 Watch your email for the details closer to the time.

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FROM ZERO TO 2000 (HOURS) IN 37 YEARS… Part 2 – the early 90’s (as documented in Champagn-E-Vents)

Did anyone else note that back in the mid-80’s Dennis agreed to TEMPORARILY stay on as Chief Pilot? 30 years, give or take, doesn’t sound very temporary!!

MARCH 1990: Yup…he’s still there - Chief Pilot: Dennis Myrthu

Keeping with his educational role Dennis wrote an informative article entitled “Balloons and Wake Turbulence” “the invisible hazard (that) could be disastrous to a balloon in flight should it drift into the path of one of these severe vortices.

Congratulations were extended to Dennis having been presented with the 1989 Technical Award by the A.F.B.S. at a recent seminar.

AUGUST 1990:

The Chief Pilot’s Report was entitled “Peer Pressure – A Threat to Safety?” and covered many the many situations where “we should be careful not to let our (pilot’s) judgment be overruled by peer pressure to the point where we may be endangering our own lives and the lives of others.”

Under the heading “Congratulations to….” - “Dennis …worthy recipient of the first annual Bill Traynor Safety Award” Also: “Bill, Jennifer, Dennis, Walt, Harold (among others)” were recognized for competing in the Stampede races and putting on a great show.

Under the heading: Thanks To: Everyone (which included Dennis on the list of lecturers) who helped with the Spring Leisure Learning Classes.

NOVEMBER ‘90

The Chief Pilot’s Report dealt with “Crew & Safety” from launch to landing.

The President’s Message included a thank you to all (including Dennis) who taught in the recent Leisure Learning Balloon Classes.

According to the event report, Dennis was a competitor (though finishing well down in the standings) in the 1990 AM 106 Balloon Festival.

FEBRUARY ‘91

“Safety: Chief Pilot’s report” dealt with the hazards of “transporting the basket and burner on the back of a truck or trailer with the burner system in an upright position”.

In the Minutes of the December General Meeting it was noted that “Dennis Myrthu gave a brief report on his recent trip to the Pacific Cup Championships in Saga, Japan”.

Reprinted (complete with pictures) from the Saga Press, November 23, 1990 and roughly translated: “Canadian Hot Air Balloon Pilot, Dennis Myrthu, celebrated his 39th birthday yesterday. In attendance were the Governor of the Prefecture of Saga and the Mayor of the City of Saga, as well as three hundred assorted balloon pilots, crew and observers from around the world. Dennis and friends were entertained by a

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Japanese troupe of singers and dancers and by traditional Japanese drummers. The Governor, (pictured) when asked to comment on the evening’s festivities said, “Myrthu-san does not look a day older than 60!”

At the February 21st Club meeting the guest speaker will be Dennis Myrthu, with slides from the Pacific Cup in Japan.

MAY ‘91

Under the Letters to the Editor heading: “According to various sources the 14th Annual Night Rally held this year on March 31st was a great success…Michael Gernat flew with Dennis in AM 106…”

From the March meeting minutes: A motion was made by Dennis Myrthu that the C.B.C. go with the option proposed of a User Fee charged out on a per flight basis (providing that this was a minimal charge). Motion was seconded by Ian MacNeil. Motion was passed (unanimous show of hands).

Among the Special Thanks : Dennis Myrthu, Janet Astle and Harold Warner [were thanked] for their amusing, informative and colourful talks at the last few meetings.

And Congratulations included: “Dennis Myrthu is going to do a good job as balloonmeister at the Drumheller rally…or else!”

AUGUST ‘91

Chief Pilot…in his Report, Dennis discussed the issues surrounding Trailer Safety.

Under the heading “Ballooning in the Badlands” it was written that, “In the world according to Myrthu it was the 35th annual such event…well, give or take a few decades maybe. Dennis was the official balloonmeister, and if he says it was #35, then it was. Why? Because he makes the rules – that’s why!”

Then there was the article titled “Drumheller 91 (or the redemption of Dennis)”. The article was well written and very detailed providing documentation of Dennis’ antics throughout the weekend.

Thanks To..“Everyone who worked on the last Leisure Learning classes” and mentioning that “After 5 tries by Ron, Ralph and Alan, Dennis finally managed a successful inflation”. “Class teachers were Alan, Bill, KayCee, Ron, Doug and…Dennis.”

FEBRUARY ‘92

In an informative article entitled “Keep An Eye On Those Power Lines” written by Dennis, he included the line: “This is my story which still brings shivers up my back.” and “In conclusion, always give full attention to your flying and be even more alert when flying in the vicinity of power lines.”

MAY ‘92

In an Open Letter to: “All Calgary Balloon Pilots and interested non-pilots” President Bill Lester set out to describe the (then) current state of the Calgary Balloon Club. In this letter he noted that “Pilot privileges are available to any qualified person who is a member of the Club, who has been checked out on the Club equipment by the Chief Pilot (currently Dennis Myrthu) or his designate…”

The Club’s Rural Events Committee sent out a letter to a host of neighbouring communities gauging interest in having a bunch of balloons attend their town/village. Contacts for more information included: Dennis Myrthu.

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A report on a “Fun Flight From Langdon – April 26th” noted that “Pilots Dennis, Lloyd, Phil, Glen and Linda and their passengers enjoyed a perfect spring morning for their flights…”

Contacts for the Club’s upcoming out-of-town 1992 balloon functions were: Dennis, Linda or Ralph

AUGUST ‘92

From the President’s Report: “Dennis flew it (the Club balloon) in Millet and I am told scored more points in the Alberta Championship than anyone else. For this, Dennis congratulations (we will get you an alarm clock later). Richard Clark flew in a rural event in Innisfail and Dennis flew in his hometown of Standard.”

“CONGRATULATIONS to Dennis Myrthu for logging his 1000th hour during the Drumheller Saturday evening flight”.

Medicine Hat Spectrum Days – Balloon Rally – June 5, 6, 7, 1992 “Dennis Myrthu as the balloonmeister …”

Up-Coming Events included: “Aug 14-16th Lethbridge Air Show: Dennis is flying CGHNI (C-FREE) and will need crew.” A poster for the event (reproduced in the newsletter) was headlined “Blow into Lethbridge for the Lethbridge International Air Show” and someone had creatively inserted (hand written) “WITH DENNIS after Lethbridge”.

NOVEMBER ‘92

Congratulations To (included): “Dennis for organizing another great Drumheller weekend and for turning up again. (Twice in one year, wow!!)” And - “Dennis for his Article in Balloon Life”

In the REC (Rural Event Committee) report, Ralph noted that “Dennis M. thanked the management (of the restaurant where supper was enjoyed) and told them we would be back in the fall…” In writing of the fall event: a couple was celebrating their marriage at the same restaurant and the two groups entertained each other. It was then reported that “Dennis never misses an opportunity to take a young married couple on a balloon ride and a trade was in the offing. Why not!! A balloon ride for the bottom layer of wedding cake. Sure sounded like a great trade for all of us, so tell me Dennis, what do you plan for next spring. Great weekend Dennis, thanks from all of us.”

From an article entitled “A Slightly Misplaced Crew Person’s Account of Drumheller”:

“Dennis Myrthu was the seasoned Balloon Meister. He not only came up with a number of unique tasks but even managed to arrange a CAR as the prize for the top pilot. There were five balloons from Calgary, two from Bowden and one from Edmonton. From Calgary, balloons were flown by Dennis Myrthu…” “Dennis took some of the credit for the weather and the beautiful fall colours.” “The official social event of the weekend was group dinner at the ??? Restaurant, a Greek restaurant within staggering distance of the palatial Rock Hound Motel. Much to our amusement, Dennis had arranged entertainment in the form of a wedding dinner held in the restaurant and a specially imported belly dancer.” “The cake was so well enjoyed by the balloon group, that Dennis offered the newly married couple a free ride the next morning…” “Jennifer had registered a complaint regarding the belly dancer so Dennis reduced her entry fee and provided her with a blind in case she did not want to watch.” “Dennis recently passed his 1000th flight hour and some people saved their water balloons to help Dennis celebrate. Some even saved significant quantities of champagne to help Dennis celebrate. Dennis got very wet and sticky. He threatened to take event points from a few pilots for their unsportsmanlike behavior.” “Thanks to Dennis and everyone for their assistance and attendance, the understanding management of the palatial Rock Hound Motel and that elderly lady who stuff two dollars where the sun rarely shines. I understand Dennis is hoping to arrange an equal or better event…next spring.”

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FEBRUARY ‘93

Congratulations To (included): Dennis, whose photograph appears as a double-page spread in the January 1993 edition of National Geographic Magazine.

Within the write-up of the AFBS AGM: Crewing and flying techniques were the topics of a panel discussion chaired by Reg Karbonik. Dennis Myrthu was a panel member (with others). “Congratulations (were extended) to Dennis Myrthu who was re-elected as Calgary Regional Director.” “P.S. Speak to Dennis at the next meeting if you have any questions”.

APRIL ‘93

A “Mini-Newsletter” had only one article entitled “News From All Over” and the lead report was about “The 19th(?) Annual Fool’s Day night flight (which) took place as planned on Sunday morning, April 4th, with 5 balloons in the air, including C-FREE in the capable hands of Richard Clark, guided by the chief pilot, Dennis Myrthu.”

Also: “Members of the Club have been busy giving talks to other clubs in the last few weeks. Dennis spoke to the Amateur Radio Club recently…”

AUGUST ‘93

The Chief Pilot’s Report discussed “Negotiations with the Calgary Park and Recreation Board to approve a legal agreement for launching hot air balloons from city-owned land…”

“Balloonasaurus Rex Weekend – Drumheller – May 28th, 29th & 30th, 1993: “Our now famous (infamous?) Balloonmeister kicked the weekend off by organizing the assembled company to head out for a Chinese buffet supper on Friday night. His consideration towards the Trekkers (we know who we are!) in the assemblage was noted by same and appreciated. He waited till the week’s episode was over before calling them to come for supper!” “There was a crew task called by the Balloonmeister (with some input from a certain pilot, who should likely remain unknown). The task was to acquire, from a garage sale the most ridiculous attire in which to dress up your pilot.” “Had anyone taken a role call at dinner it might have read something like this (in part): Delectable Denise (aka – Dennis Myrthu).” Prizes were awarded to the top three crews (second place went to Dennis’ crew).

NOVEMBER ‘93

The Chief Pilot’s Report dealt with crew safety and “a few of the more dangerous practices which have been all too common.”

From the Drumheller Weekend Highlights – October 15 – 17, 1993:

“Dennis announced a pumpkin carving contest (pilot look alike!!) for the (Saturday) afternoon activity…” Later, “the staff of the restaurant judged the pumpkins all of which were EXCELLENT! They were judged on best resemblance to the respective pilot. First prize went to Dennis Myrthu (carved by Bert & Jennifer).”

MAY ‘94

The Chief Pilot’s Report was titled: “How To Prevent Hair Loss” and described a fast landing during which, “one of my lady passengers was lying on the downside of the basket during the drag landing and her long hair became wedged between the basket brim and the ground.”

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Reprinted from a Vernon newspaper: a highlight from the Winter Carnival event.

“Gracie’s dream came true for her 89th birthday.” “The Balloon Fiesta was the highlight of the Winter Carnival for Vernon resident Gracie Millard. The 89-year-old took her first hot air balloon ride with Calgary balloonist Dennis Myrthu and now she’s hooked on the sport.” Dennis was quoted as saying: “It’s very special being able to take someone that age in the basket…She was a darling. She was a great passenger.” It was later reported in the minutes of the February meeting that the lady flew “complete with her walker”.

NOVEMBER ‘94

The Chief Pilot’s Report contained a re-look at the subject of tie-offs and quick releases.

“Speakers for the evening were Dennis Myrthu and the Andersons, Hans and Kathleen. They shared the story of the special birthday celebration which involved collecting the Anderson’s new balloon in England.”

And then there was this…reprinted in its entirety:

DENNIS GETS HIS COME-UPPANCE

There is a very kindly guy

Who does a lot of training

He teaches others how to fly

and through the air goes sailing.

But heaven help the unwary soul

who turns his back on Dennis,

for if a first flight is his goal

then Myrthu is a menace.

But at the Alburque’ b’loon fest

A lesson he was taught –

His crew, and others did their best

Revenge was what they sought.

The Drumheller May ’94 included:

“Eleven balloons were present with an ever growing group of family and crew along. The pilots included…Dennis and Phil Johnson.”

Saturday morning, in compliance with the rules for a toilet paper drop; “Everyone launched with all toilet paper rolls being fully un-rolled much to Dennis & Ralph’s amazement.”

With champagne, cream and lots of sand,

They planned and hatched their plot,

and whilst his ego was being fanned

they showered him with the lot!

“Oh sweet revenge” they cried with joy,

as he stood sopping wet.

All saw the evidence of their ploy,

His come-u’ppance he had met.

So Dennis when you mix your brew

And plan to have some fun,

it’s all remembered by your crew

and JUSTICE WILL BE DONE.

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Saturday evening, with the weather uncooperative, crews were directed to “dress” their pilot for supper. It was noted that “We scared off the few patrons that were in the restaurant and overtook the place. The two regular waitresses shook their heads - they thought they had seen it all in the previous two visits. Later on a couple came in for dinner and Dennis felt that he should explain who we were and the reason for the unusual dress of some. He may not have been the best representative, he was most likely the scariest looking among us.” “Costumes were judged by the children present with…Dennis had to be one of the most realistic and scariest looking, including real mud from head to foot. (Rumor has it that certain Club members ambushed him on the way home with a super-soaker to help with mud removal)

Sunday morning came early and “Dennis the great POOBAHSAURUS had yet another task for the crew but this one was pretty easy. The pilot tossed out 5 styrofoam bowls once they were 50 feet above ground and the crew had to catch them before they hit the ground.”

From the “Drumheller Revisited – September ‘94” report:

“Dennis again demonstrated his deep sense of ceremony as he went to great efforts to christen each pilot who had achieved a milestone. (They will return the favour some day, I’m sure [commented the writer].) “…after dinner at the Mapletree restaurant each crew had to present their mascot and explain why they were the best suited for the job. This provided great entertainment, especially when Dennis was nearly hit with a falling egg.”

From the “Something’s Up In Albuquerque” report: “Our Chief Pilot Dennis, once again herded the Creamland Cow across the skies.”

And finally: a Calgary Herald ad by the Cactus Club Café was reprinted. They were looking for an experienced cook but beneath the image of cow was “Do you have dreams of flying cows?" Someone wondered if Dennis had applied?

Searle

[Thanks to Searle for compiling all of the excerpts from Champagn-E-Vents for this special feature on our former Chief Pilot.]

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FLIGHT COORDINATOR LIST CLUB MEMBERS – REMEMBER! You can book flights in the Club

balloon for yourself, family members, or close friends.

Anyone wishing to book the Club balloon must call the Flight

Coordinator for the month in question.

Pilots may have only one regular booking at a time and one

extraordinary booking, with the approval of the Executive.

NOTE:

1. The Coordinator should advise

the Club Secretary of any long

term booking requests.

2. If a booking is needed when there

is not an assigned Coordinator,

the booking should be made with

the Club Secretary.

TO SCHEDULE A FLIGHT

Check with the Flight Coordinator to

find out what days are available.

Contact a Club Pilot to arrange for the flight and the rate.

Call the Flight Coordinator and book the flight. ENJOY!

NEW BALLOONING WORLD RECORD 05.05.2014

The FAI has ratified the following Class A (Free balloons) World record : ================================================ Claim number : 17055 Size category :AX-03 (Hot-air balloons: 400 to 600 m³) Category: Female Type of record : Duration Course/location : Crysler, Ontario (Canada) - Plantagenet, Ontario (Canada) Performance : 4h 17min 42 sec Pilot : Sandra Rolfe (Canada) Balloon : RVB / Bill Whelan Date :09.02.2014 Previous record : 3 h 35 min (07.01.2007 - Pauline Baker, Ireland) ================================================ FAI congratulates the Pilot on this splendid achievement.

May Cat T. 403-240-1491

June Jody H. 403-277-1811

July Bert F. 403-286-9208

August Searle S. 403-240-1491

September Brant L. 403-475-6800

October Norm G. 403-293-6129

November Jody H. 403-277-1811

December Searle S. 403-240-1491

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2014–2015 CALENDAR OF UPCOMING EVENTS

DATES EVENT LOCATION CONTACT

May 14 CBC Monthly Meeting AeroSpace Museum Norm G.

May 17 After Meeting Flight–Victoria Day Weekend TBA Cat T.

June 2 CBC Executive Meeting TBA Norm G.

June 11 CBC Monthly Meeting AeroSpace Museum Norm G.

June 14 After Meeting Flight TBA Jody H.

June 15 Wings & Wheels - Father’s Day Event AeroSpace Museum

June 21 Carseland Aggie Days - Flight/Tether? To Be Confirmed Brant L.

NO MEETINGS JULY AND AUGUST

July 18 Newsletter Deadline Heather C.

July 17-27 21st FAI World Hot Air Balloon Championship Rio Claro, SP, Brazil

July 24-27 Billings Montana Festival Billings, Montana

July 26 AJ Flying Ranch Fly-In Breakfast Cayley, AB Brant L.

August 7 CBC Annual BBQ Searle& Cat’s Complex

Aug 29-Sept 1 Hespero Annual Balloon Race & Corn Roast Hespero, AB Cliff S.

Sept 1? CBC Executive Meeting TBA Norm G.

Sept 10 CBC Monthly Meeting AeroSpace Museum Norm G.

Sept 12-14 Fall Drumheller Happening Drumheller, AB

Sept 26-28 Heritage Inn International Balloon Festival High River, AB

Sept 29? CBC Executive Meeting TBA Norm G.

Oct 4-12 Albuquerque Balloon Festival Albuquerque, NM

Oct 8 CBC Monthly Meeting AeroSpace Museum Norm G.

Oct 11 After Meeting Flight TBA Norm G.

Oct 17-19 Raven Rally Raven, AB Linda T.

Nov 3 CBC Executive Meeting TBA Norm G.

Nov 12 CBC AGM & Elections AeroSpace Museum Norm G.

Nov 14-17 13th Annual Festival del Globo 2014 Leon, Mexico

Nov 15 After Meeting Flight TBA Jody H.

Dec 1 CBC Executive Meeting TBA Norm G.

Dec 4 CBC Christmas Party TBA

Jan 1, 2015 New Year’s Day Flight TBA

April Night Flight or April Fool’s Flight?

The May Drumheller Happening was cancelled due to Alberta’s ongoing ‘damp’ weather.

However, a social gathering was pulled together in Calgary for the Saturday evening, with over

20 Club members in attendance.

Photos are needed for the 2015 Club calendar. Deadline for submissions will be August 1, 2014.

Stan W. has another round of surgery behind him and is on the path to getting back in the air.

Club volunteers are needed for a booth and display at the Wings & Wheels event at the

AeroSpace Museum on June 15th. Contact Norm G. if you can assist.

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CALGARY BALLOON CLUB MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION Membership Year is from January 1 to December 31 Name: ______________________________________________ Surname First Address: ____________________________________________ ___________________________Postal Code________________ Email Address: _______________________________________ Contact Phone (Home): ________________________ (Cell:)_____________ It is the intention of the Club:

- to use the information to contact you about Club activities - to provide a Membership Roster and Email list for Club members - to use the information for Club purposes - for you to have access to your information - to respect your privacy.

I give permission to have my contact information included on the Membership Roster

and/or Email list to be distributed to the members of the Calgary Balloon Club (Club).

(circle one) ► YES NO

A link to the electronic version of the Club’s quarterly newsletter will be sent to the

email address that you have provided. To also receive a printed copy (black & white)

indicate your choice by circling: ► PRINTED COPY

Membership Class Rate Amount Enclosed Active (Within Canada) $45.00/year $ _____________ Family of Active Member $15.00/year $ _____________ Printed Copy Postage Fee $10.00/year (outside Canada only) $ _____________ Name(s) of Family Members applied for:__________________________________________ Family Member Email Address: ___________________________Phone/cell______________

Total Enclosed $_____________ Date: ________________________Signature: ________________________________ Please make Cheque Payable to: THE CALGARY BALLOON CLUB c/o 1111 Memorial Drive NW For “E Transfer” please contact the Club’s Treasurer Calgary, AB T2N 3E4

Member App-Rev5 13/10

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FINAL CHECKS BEFORE A SPECIAL FLIGHT!

Thanks to Colin H. for sharing the photo.