THE CALGARY BALLOON CLUB 1111 MEMORIAL DRIVE N.W. CALGARY, ALBERTA CANADA T2N 3E4

CHAMPAGN-E-VENTS

FEBRUARY 2014 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.org/

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 403-273-2194 Director-At-Large Graham Hack 403-730-8948

COMMITTEE CHAIRS C.A.O.C. Representative Jennifer Lowndes 403-289-7624 Chief Pilot Linda Then 403-276-6507 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

2 EDITORIAL NOTES:

Welcome to the first of the four issues of CHAMPAGN-E-VENTS for the year 2014.

In January I was fortunate enough to attend the Lake Havasu, Arizona festival again and added the Mesquite, Nevada event to the travel schedule. This, coupled with my attending the Vernon Winter Carnival in early February, meant that the newsletter production had to be postponed. The up side was that more submissions were received due to the deadline extension.

Thank you to everyone who contributed materials for this issue. There is a wide range of articles, reports, photographs and snippets that have been shared. Just remember - it is not too early to start putting something together for next time!

We wish to remind all members that you must renew your annual membership to continue receiving Club emails and newsletters. If you would like to receive a printed copy of the newsletter please indicate on your membership form or advise Graham Hack or Heather Clark.

The next issue of CHAMPAGN-E-VENTS will be distributed in May. Please forward your submissions by April 16, 2014.

Heather

[Front Cover Design - Thanks to Ralph Dowson]

HAVE YOU RENEWED YOUR CLUB MEMBERSHIP FOR 2014?

IF NOT - Mail a completed form with your payment to the Club address or bring it to the next monthly meeting.

A membership form is included with this newsletter, available on the Club’s website and at Club meetings..

You must renew in order to continue receiving your Club newsletter and emails. Don’t miss out!

3 PRESIDENT’S REPORT February 2014

It’s hard to believe we are already into a new year once again. Last year was very exciting with lots of ballooning activities, especially the Canadian Championships in High River. I expect that this year will be very much the same.

By the time you read this message, Club members will have already attended ballooning events in Lake Havasu, AZ, Mesquite, NV and Vernon, BC. Some of the upcoming events in the next couple of months include Sylvan Lake WinterFest (February 15), March SAMF flight/breakfast (March 15), our spring Drumheller weekend (April 25-27) and the 3 rd Annual Rimbey Balloon Festival (May 9-11). Many more events are planned so please check the Club Newsletter for details, mark your calendars and come out and participate.

The club membership at the beginning of this year has reached 103 and continues to grow. We are actively recruiting new members in a variety of ways.

One new initiative is called Meetup . This is an online social site which we can use to promote the Club and post our upcoming activities and announcements. If you haven’t yet checked it out please do so at www.meetup.com/calgary-balloon-club . The Executive encourages all members to sign up. You will be then notified by e-mail of all meetings and events as details become available. Detailed information is available only to Club members who have joined us in Meetup . You can also confirm your attendance at these events by replying online. Meetup can also use this to update all members, via e-mail, of any last minute changes.

This year the Club will be participating in the Annual Sportsman and Boat Show (February 7-9) at the Stampede grounds. We plan to have a display set up similar to those at the Rimbey trade show and the Calgary Lifestyle Recreation Expo last year. This show attracts large crowds and we would like to introduce the sport of Hot Air Ballooning to as many people as possible and hopefully attract some new members.

Work on revising the Club bylaws and operating rules is continuing but progressing slowly. I hope this will be completed in time for review at the next AGM in November. We are also working on redesigning the Club’s website to give it a new look and improved function. We have a great team of IT specialist working on this. More on this later in the year.

Our 2014 Club calendars are SOLD OUT. I believe there may be a few Albuquerque calendars still available so if interested please check with Cat Tanton. The Executive has set a deadline of August 1, 2014 for photo submissions for the 2015 calendars. This is to allow the calendar committee sufficient time to prepare next year’s calendar so it will be available for sale at the September Drumheller event. Photos can now be submitted online via Dropbox. Please contact Tara Leatherdale for details and access.

The Saturday After Meeting Flights (SAMF) seem to have been neglected in the past and I hope we can do more of them this year. Even if we don’t plan to fly we should still meet for breakfast somewhere. It is a great opportunity to interact with other Club members and exchange some good natured B.S. (Balloon Stories). Details will be published in Meetup as to locations and times for both flights and/or breakfast.

Norm

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CHIEF PILOT’S REPORT

SPRING IS HERE… Many balloonists fly their balloons in the spring, summer, and fall. Here in Calgary, we are more likely to fly our balloons in winter as much as the summer. Many of our events take place in the cooler times of the year. Cleaning plowed snow out of your basket after a quick landing in a large field is good for those balloon stories we love to tell. Of course, the socializing on the side of the road can often be the best part.

For those who put their balloons away for the winter, here are some items that come to mind: If your balloon has been dormant through the winter months, you have likely been keeping it frozen.

How was it when you packed it away? Did you land in a wet field? Did you have lots of straw, canola, dirt or maybe snow packed in the envelope? Now that it is going to be thawed out, a pre-inflation will dust off the envelope to prevent damage or mold occurring before you take it out for its first flight of the season.


Look for small tears or holes and where they are lower than your manual’s standards, patch with sticky tape. Document the small tears and holes so they can be repaired during the annual inspection.


Clean the Velcro tabs for better adhesion.


Make a note of the temperature recorded on your temp label so you have a better idea of any changes that might occur during the year.


Do a burner check so if there are any concerns, they can be dealt with before your first flight.

This is also a good time to check for other items that might have been forgotten .

Do you have all the equipment loaded properly?


Do you have your striker, drop line, fire extinguisher on board? Rotate the fire extinguisher to mix up the chemicals inside.


Is the basket quite dusty or does it have packed dirt between the basket and the leather from either last year’s flying or the winter storage? This can be a good time to give it a good wash.


Do you have any loose pieces of wicker or leather on your basket that can potentially catch on a landing? Snip these off before your first flight.


Do you have all your carabiners present and in working order?


If you do not have end covers for your burner hoses or tank inlets, check to make sure that something hasn’t taken up residence and get some covers for any hoses or inlets that need them. You can pick these up at your propane station.

5


Make sure you all of your tanks are full and ready to go.


Double check that the tank straps are firmly secured in case they were loosened at the end of last season for any reason.


Inflator fan: check for loose bindings on cage, check that fan blades are not damaged.


If the gas is more than 6 months old it should be drained. Change the oil. Start it up to make sure it is operational.


Instruments: install new batteries


Radios: check that they are charged and operational.


Check your flight bag: spare igniter, log book, flight manual, insurance certificate, C of A and C of R present, quick release, supply of helium, balloons. Check that the first aid kit is stocked.


When is your medical due?


When is your 24 month recurrency training program due?


Has it been 6 months since your last flight? If so, you will need to fly solo until you have completed your 5 take-offs and landings.


Do you need new gloves this year?


Go through your preflight inspection and emergency procedures in your head before going out for a flight.

If you complete these items at the beginning of the year, it will help when the time comes for your annual inspection. Most of these pointers can be done as your first pre-flight inspection but you have to be prepared that if there is a problem with any of them, you might miss your first flight of the year! o Linda Then, AME

SPEAKER January 8, 2014 Ballooning in Japan – Garry Lockyer spoke about some of his adventures while ballooning in Japan over the years. He first went there in 1989 and has been back many times, usually in the capacity of an official. Garry shared some great stories about the flying and the driving in Japan, complete with some fun video footage.

CONGRATULATIONS TO: • Akari Sue for successfully completing all the requirements for her Canadian Hot Air Balloon Licence. • Linda Then for accepting the position of Chief Pilot of the Calgary Balloon Club.

6 An Open Letter to The Calgary Balloon Club’s 2013 Executive and the Membership as a whole.

My sincerest thanks for naming me only the 5 th Honorary Life Member of the Calgary Balloon Club.

In my world recognition by one’s peers, whatever the endeavor, is the highest of honors. To say that I was/am overwhelmed is an understatement! I have always believed that if one joins an organization there is an obligation to actively participate, to volunteer and to generally do one’s part. Joining the company of Joan Martin, Brian Hval, Dennis Myrthu and Sharon Dougan is so very special, I struggle to find the words to express the gratitude.

Association with the Club and helping it grow have been, and continue to be, an important part of my life. I began as an active crew member for Ralph and others, then had a first flight with Joan Martin. This set me on the path (with assistance of many, some of whom are no longer with us) to getting my license, and finally the never to be forgotten first solo under the watchful eye of Dennis. Actually it isn’t the flight that is so memorable as is what happened afterwards. I have pictures depicting the champagne shower, the mud and the appearance in a restaurant looking like…well…you can guess.

From there through to today, Ralph pretty well said it all, except that – I hope to continue being an active member and contributing where I can.

Searle Photo Thanks To Tara L.

S A M B – November 16, 2013

November 16 th was the scheduled date for the SAMF (Saturday After Meeting Flight) but the weatherman had a different idea so it became the Saturday After Meeting Breakfast. It was a cold, windy, somewhat snowy morning. A couple of folks who had indicated that they would be coming out decided to stay home where it was warm and toasty rather than venturing out to breakfast in the wintery weather.

The eight of us who braved the elements had a hearty meal at Ricky’s, consuming large quantities of coffee while we told balloon stories (B.S.) and shared other tales. After about two hours we decided it was time to give up our seats and get on with the usual Saturday chores. By then the weather had deteriorated considerably and although there was some thought of lingering to chat more in the parking lot, we quickly determined that was not for the best. So we scurried off to our vehicles.

These gatherings, even though there is no balloon contact, are always an enjoyable time, shared in good company.

Heather

7 Welcome To New & Returning Members:

Jason Adams, Keith & Rhonda Backs, Lenora & Miles Crane, David DyVyZyO, Karen Hack, Breanne Hack, Leanne Henderson, Dave Knowler, Erin McKeage, Kelsi McKeage, Karen Spanier, and Allan Toews.

We are pleased to add you to the membership and look forward to seeing you at Club events and activities.

Club Christmas Party – December 5, 2013

• It was a very cold and wintery night – typical of many of our Christmas parties.

• Linda organized some social mixers which definitely got us mixing. However, it was clear that most of us were not up on popular music nor could we carry a tune, but it got us warmed up before dinner in any case.

• There was the usual spread of good food to be enjoyed.

• We had a brief visit from Santa who seemed to be suffering from a wardrobe and hair/beard malfunction but he was jolly all the same. He and his helpers distributed the White Elephant gifts.

• Numerous door prizes were awarded.

• A wide range of raffle and silent auction items were on offer, with some very happy recipients at the end of the evening.

• There was even a spare basket corner available to turn an isosceles basket into a square one!

• Once again there was generous Club support for the Food Bank.

• Dennis Myrthu was formally thanked for serving as Chief Pilot of the Calgary Balloon Club for over three decades. He was presented with a bottle of wine and a gift certificate for dinner, at one his favorite restaurants, as a token of appreciation.

8 New Year’s Day Flight at Chestermere, AB

What a wonderful turnout – 40+ people attended the breakfast! Thank you to Earl Kapty for coordinating the use of the Rec Centre for us again. It was a perfect place to cook, keep the champagne cool and had lots of room to sit and visit. Also thank you to Heather and Richard for bringing all the Club supplies.

This was my third year of organizing the New Year’s Flight and we finally got the flight off, giving the town a show with Edwardo, Linda, Garry, Richard, Bill and Dale as the participating pilots. It was a wonderful day for a flight but with a bit too much snow in the fields when it came to landing. We needed to use toboggans to get some of the systems out - what a great workout! I’m sure one of the pictures taken will make it into next year’s calendar.

Please think about launching from Chestermere for any future flights when the winds are taking you away from Calgary.

Debbie Thanks to Laura H. & Dirk L. for the photos.

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THANKS TO:

• Dennis Myrthu for dependably serving in the position of Chief Pilot of the Calgary Balloon Club from 1981 to 2013.

• The outgoing Executive members for their contributions to the Club.

• Sue and Shelagh and to Jody for bringing their crafts to the November meeting.

• Everyone who helped with the Club Christmas party, including all who donated raffle and silent auction items.

• Cat and Searle for the use of their condo’s recreation centre for our Christams party.

• The calendar committee for all of their excellent work on this year’s calendar and to all the photographers who contributed.

• Debbie for coordinating the venue and launch site for our New Year’s day gathering and flight.

• Ralph for the design for the Club’s 2014 membership pins.

• Garry L. for speaking at the January meeting, when he shared some of his many balloon adventures in Japan over the past 20+ years.

• Tara for creating and coordinating the Club’s Meetup group.

• All of our trusty Cookie Monsters who volunteer to bring treats to our monthly meetings.

• Dennis and Richard for replacing the wheel jack and safety chains on the Club trailer.

MAPS The Club owns a set of local maps plus the municipal/county maps courtesy of the AFBS. These were updated a few years ago to include all of the PZs and the properties that are developed, or that belong to developers.

These will be given to the Club Executive to manage. Anyone interested in helping with this project should contact a member of the Executive.

One suggestion is that these maps could be cut up and made into an atlas to be kept and used with the Club balloon. //

10 BALLOONING IN ARIZONA & NEVADA - JANUARY 2014 LAKE HAVASU BALLOON FESTIVAL There were six balloons from the Calgary Balloon Club in attendance at the Lake Havasu Balloon Festival that took place January 17 to 19 and a fine time was had by all! The weather was gorgeous with all three morning flights and evening glows taking place. The majority of pilots elected not to fly two afternoons due to the winds; however, there were a couple of adventurist U.S. pilots who had to be retrieved from the far end of the lake by tow boats one afternoon. The Canadians were all placed in the same flying schedule which added to the fun. It was awesome seeing them floating around with the mountains in the background and the fabulous blue sky as their backdrop. Part of the challenge they presented to themselves was to get as close to London Bridge as possible and Gary Fehr managed to do it twice. He floated over the bridge and down almost touching the Bridgewater Channel. His passengers were talking to the kayakers and other boaters out enjoying the show the pilots were putting on. John Phillips had so much fun being towed in off the lake last year that he was one of the first to call upon a boat to get him to shore again this year. Richard Clark also had a short tow to land one morning and then his crew (poor Gary M.) had to walk him quite a distance uphill to meet the crew van. Cliff Skocdopole landed so close to the water’s edge one day that a rescue boat came along to see if he wanted a tow but he elected to have his crew walk him to the nearest road. Note: Cliff did this without first asking his crew their thoughts on hauling a balloon a quarter mile over rough terrain. One of the most eye catching balloons in the sky was Gary Lockyer’s with the Arizona sun lighting it up as he flew along. Dale Ritchie showed the U.S. pilots how to do a perfect landing in a congested launch field one evening when the night glow participants were getting set up. It was good to have some additional Calgary Balloon Club members as crew (Gary and Sharon, Del and Wendy, Murray and Margie, Debbie) as well as other Canadian crew (Keith and Rhonda and David and Sharon). The Lake Havasu Balloon Festival takes care of the pilots and crew by providing excellent meals and facilities. We all appreciated that the Havasu community made everyone feel welcome. Many spectators took the time to tell the pilots “Thank You” for coming to this event.

Thank you to Sheri S. & Heather C. for the Havasu & Mesquite photos. Margie Lunt

11

MESQUITE HOT AIR BALLOON FESTIVAL January 25 & 26, 2014 Cliff Skocdopole and Gary Fehr had stopped at the CasaBlanca Casino in Mesquite last year on their way home from Lake Havasu and saw a poster advertising an annual ballooning event being held there the weekend following the Havasu event. Cliff later talked to the event organizer and this year four Canadian pilots stopped to fly in the 3 rd Annual Mesquite Hot Air Balloon Festival on their way home.

Mesquite is not a very big place and it was amazing to discover that 39 balloons were registered. Balloons filled the air both mornings and it is more than likely that there were a few distracted drivers passing by on the I-15! It was also surprising how many spectators turned out both at the launch field, and surrounding bluffs as well as at the glow held on the Saturday evening at the CasaBlanca. The CasaBlanca staff, volunteers and spectators went out of their way to make pilots and crew feel welcome! So if any of you want a great get-a-way next January, plan on joining the Canadian pilots in Havasu or Mesquite or both!

Margie Lunt

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AVIATION 101

Flying is the second greatest thrill known to man.... Landing is the first!

ANYONE INTERES TED IN Remember, you're always a student in BALLOON PINS – an aircraft.

CONTACT JENNIFER L., Gravity never loses! The best you can AS SHE HAS AN hope for is a draw! EXTENSIVE COLLECTION Keep looking around; there's always TO PASS ALONG. something you've missed.

You cannot propel yourself forward by patting yourself on the back.

SPRING FLYING REMINDER!

It is calving and lambing season.

At this time of year exercise extra caution when flying over livestock.

All animals are likely to be more skittish.

Thank you to Karalee Coleman for submitting the interesting historical article that follows. It has been reprinted here with the permission of the author.

If anyone is interested in further research, there is a novel called "The Cloud Atlas" by Liam Callanan about the whole plan.

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12 January 1945 – Japan Bombs Saskatchewan!! Politics WWII – by Bobbie Kehler

It was a cold and wintry January day. WWII was ranging on in Europe and in the south Pacific. The newspapers reported daily on battles and casualties that were taking place half a world away. But little did the folks in the quiet village of Minton Saskatchewan realize that their days of quiet isolation were numbered. The Japanese had a secret weapon up their collective sleeves; a weapon so fearsome that news of its devastating efficacy would be suppressed by the Canadian government for the duration of the war. To this day, very few Canadians know what happened on that fateful January morning when our proud and easy to draw central prairie province experienced firsthand the awesome firepower that the Land of the Rising Sun had unleashed; the morning that Saskatchewan was bombed by a balloon.

No seriously! On 12 January 1945, a downed 10 metre diameter balloon and its unexploded payload was found by then 15-year old Ralph Melle, his father and his uncle. Ralph would report in a 7 February 2005 interview with CBC radio "We stepped on one... it was covered up but it never went off." The only casualty in the attack was a fence.

In November of 1944, the Japanese government launched (literally) one of the goofiest plans in modern warfare; possibly in ancient warfare too. Over the next six months Japan's Special Balloon Regiment launched 9000 hydrogen filled balloons carrying a payload of incendiary bombs into the jet stream. Their objective? To start forest fires in the Pacific Northwest in an attempt to divert resources and create public panic. The plan was a dismal failure.

According to www.cbc.ca, “Of the 9000 balloon bombs that were launched from Japan, only 300 made it to North America. The reason for the poor success rate was the weak antifreeze used in the balloons, which failed to prevent the batteries from freezing.” Personally I think that the other 8700 balloons simply gave up en route out of pure humiliation.

It was still wartime of course so the Canadian Government took the attack seriously; well…kind of. All news of this and other Japanese balloon attacks was suppressed. The government was less concerned about the potential danger and more concerned about the psychological effect on the public. As a result, the Japanese government only ever heard about one bomb reaching Wyoming and abandoned the project.

The plan to keep news of the balloons hush-hush was probably a good one. Fear and panic make people do some mighty stupid things and Japanese Canadians were already paying a high price for our paranoia. (see 2 February) If word got out that Japanese incendiary bombs were silently bobbing across the ocean on their way to BC forests (or ice covered Saskatchewan fences) the chances are that every nitwit with a gun would be sending bullets into the night sky.

So the bombing of Saskatchewan would remain a secret from the Canadian populace until the end of the war. And once the war was over and the news was safely released, no one really cared; which is a bit puzzling. I live in Alberta now but was born in Manitoba. Trust me, we stubble jumpers get mighty sick of the flat prairie jokes. I for one revel in the ONE time that someone managed to sneak up on the Canadian prairie.

http://www.cbc.ca/archives/categories/war-conflict/second-world-war/general-22/japan-bombs-saskatchewan.html

14 Thanks to Stan Wereschuk for submitting the note below from Don Picard, as found on “Balloonmail”. Don Picard is one of the very early pioneers of ballooning. He was once a guest speaker at a meeting of the Calgary Balloon Club.

I soloed my hydrogen gas paper balloon in 1947.

The basic flight instrument was a roll of G.I. tissue: Throw out a sheet. If it went down, I was going up. If it went up, I was going down.

Gauge your altitude by visual observation or look at how full the balloon is and how much ballast you have left.

I had a homemade Statoscope for my solo. Pretty classy. It was a heavy wine bottle with a cork and a glass U tube. The U tube had a drop or two of red "Instrument Fluid" which bubbled out when I went up and back in when I went down. (Then the toilet paper told me why - down draft, or heavy???)

The solitude in the Minnesota winter sky was the high point of my life!

I have not gotten much more technical since.

Don Piccard Minneapolis, MN

* SPRING DRUMHELLER * Everyone Welcome! Mark your calendars & plan to attend! April 25 - 27, 2014 Fun, Flying & Friendship!

Watch your email for more information.

Be sure to book your rooms at the Travelodge: 1-403-823-5302

15 FROM ZERO TO 2000 (HOURS) IN 37 YEARS…

Since getting his license in 1977 under the watchful eye of Brian Hval, among others, Dennis has achieved a milestone few balloon pilots will reach (2000 hours as PIC) and contributed to the Calgary Balloon Club and ballooning in general in a way few will do. Here, as documented in Champagn-E-Vents, is but one aspect of his contribution to the sport.

Spring Edition ’80: President, Calgary Balloon Club

Spring/Summer ’81: Chief Pilot, Calgary Balloon Club

“TRIBUTE OF DENNIS MYRTHU This spring, after three hard-working years, Dennis stepped down as Club President. He assumed new duties as Chief Pilot. The Club owes a great deal to Dennis who has devoted countless hours to helping our organization. His excellent rapport with people, his calm and practical manner and his sense of humor have helped the Club through many trouble spots. In appreciation, he was presented with an engraved and framed photograph and a coffee table book on ballooning. The words thank you seem very small when trying to show gratitude and appreciation, so, we’re making ‘em bigger, T H A N K Y O U D E N N I S !!!!”

“OL’ SWAMPIE REFINES HIS TECHNIQUE A while ago, ol’ Swampie (alias Dennis) and ol’ Water Wings (alias Tim) were flying around the Sherwood Park area. They were looking for a landing spot and, like a bear drawn to honey, these two were drawn to a swamp. Now, this was no ordinary swamp. It had a unique smell and contained Alberta gold (oil & gas). It was located by some strange white cylindrical buildings (refinery in common parlance). It posed itself as an unresistable challenge and with delightful glee, they aimed straight for it. They landed by the edge and relaxed by inhaling the superb freshness (cough, cough) of the air. They had selected the cream de la cream in swamps – one of the most refined in Alberta!”

January ‘82 The Chief Pilot’s report was 5 pages in length…we’ll just say he covered all applicable topics.

Then at the Club’s Christmas Party it was noted that among the “Gifts from Santa (was, for Dennis): “His” and “Hers” porta-potties for training.”

March ‘82 “Nice to see Chief Pilot Dennis up and about again after his bout with the knife. He put his time off to good use though, rebuilding the instrument package of Magic Dragon. A just reward was a ride in Calgary’s new Remax on her maiden flight.”

The Chief Pilot’s report was one full page of timely tips.

16 May ‘82 “Welcome back Dennis ‘Popandropolis’ Myrthu with something of a Mediterranean tan and looking rested.”

November ‘82 Bouquets: Special thanks to Al Davidson, Dennis & Heidi Myrthu for the splendid job organizing this year’s Antique Car Rally.

January ‘83 In the most active Club pilots list (for 1982); Dennis flew 16 flights for a total of 15 hours.

From the 1982 Christmas Gift List: From “Santa to Dennis – Hot Shots - for our “Hot Shot Pilot””

The Chief Pilot’s Report discussed the need for, as well as the proper care and handling of, a fire extinguisher and a “trail rope” in every basket.

March ‘83 The Chief Pilot’s Report “outlined the procedure the Club will follow in the future regarding the pilot training program”.

May ‘83 In the Mental Health Week balloon event; Dennis captured third place behind Cheryl Tromsac (1 st ) and Bruce Bailey (2 nd ).

Noted in the write up on “The Night of the Blast” as some of the things we can’t forget…but maybe others wish we would:

- “After the blast, Dennis “have some Mateus” Myrthu and friends gathering in the kitchen.”

September ‘83 “On June 29 th , the number of night flight endorsements made a real leap towards expansion when Dennis, Albert, Nola and Keith flew their first of two required flights.”

January ‘84 In a letter to the Editor (of Champagn-E-Vents) Dennis first approached the subject of a Club balloon being flown in competition, who pays for what and to whom do any prizes go.

Now this…simply titled: DENNIS MYRTHU

“A brief stroll down Nostalgia Lane should spark some Club members into recalling the antics and achievements of our Chief Pilot. Dennis Myrthu is well known for his unique choice of landing spots. Who else would want to cushion a hard landing by gracefully gliding into a freshly spread manure field? Squish – squish – squish – uhmm – uhmm – smell that lovely aroma! And what about that time he wanted to clean up the basket and chose the middle of a peaceful, serene refinery cesspool! And one landing earned him the

17 Blooper of the Year Award. He and a cohort chose a deceptively lush grassy area for the descent. When the rip cord was pulled – it was too late. With a resounding splash, Magic Dragon roared into a swamp.

But, he is better known for his contributions to the Club. Who could forget the many hours he gave to the Club during his term as President? He did everything from flying members, training pilots, bringing in extra revenue, seeking sponsorships, getting insurance, maintaining the equipment, untangling MOT rules and regulations, doing PR and acquiring a third balloon (just to mention a few things!). He also helped to organize some of the Balloon and Antique Auto Rallies. And, spends a considerable amount of time in his present position of Chief Pilot. He is a devoted family man and a loyal friend both to the sport and the participants.”

Every year Dennis is gifted by Santa and this past year…”A (wish for) a farmer’s daughter for next year’s Antique Auto Rally.”

On November 21 st “More pilots have achieved their night flight endorsements: Dennis Myrthu, Ralph Dowson, Nola Laurie…”

Reprinted from the Calgary Herald September 14 th , 1983: “BALLOON CLUB HIGH ON BIRTHDAY BASH. The Calgary Balloon Club is getting ready to give city residents a lift with a weekend festival to mark the 200 th anniversary of the first flight of a hot air balloon. The lofty three-day show of multi-coloured balloons should attract more than 36 pilots from across Alberta says club member Dennis Myrthu, adding the festival will take off at the West Hillhurst Community Centre….”

“OUR CHIEF PILOT REPORTS” dealt mainly with pilots being properly licensed to operate radio equipment carried in the balloon or used in the chase vehicle.

March ‘84 CHIEF PILOT DENNIS ADVISES…Anyone towing Club trailers must have an SEF27 endorsement (non-owned trailer endorsement) included with their vehicle insurance. Check with your insurance agent – it is usually included at no extra cost.

May ‘84 In the most active pilots list (for 1983); Dennis flew 10 flights for a total of 9.6 hours. Including 1 check-out, 2.5 training and 1 tether as Chief Pilot.

A note from Bill Roberts was printed thanking “all those who joined in to make (his) solo flight such a “memorable” occasion. Dennis Myrthu’s enthusiasm at these events should someday be rewarded! It’s nice to know, that on all future flights I get to DRINK the champagne!!”

Amid a report on Rob’s solo: “Rob deposited Dennis in the middle of a field and by the time Dennis reached the chase vehicle he was so cold and dry that we had to administer some mulled wine. (Of course, he couldn’t drink alone.)

“OUR CHIEF PILOT REPORTS” outlined the student pilot training program within the Club.

September ‘84 Co-organizer of the Calgary Balloon Club’s Fall Fiesta was…Dennis.

18 January ‘85 It was reported that Dennis & Ralph must have bribed the weatherman to cause the only weekend of good weather in October to coincide with the Club’s Fall Fiesta. They were also congratulated for “masterminding the Fiesta” which was a huge success.

Christmas gifts from Santa included: a bottle of Mateus for Dennis as well as chocolate bars (with Jeff) for their sweet tooths.

Dennis’ Chief Pilot’s report dealt with issues surrounding Prohibited Zones (PZ’s). He also addressed the matter of multiple calls to the weather briefer during the morning and offered some “advice concerning use of the crown line”.

March ‘85 S.A.I.T. students who filmed the Fall Fiesta Rally should have copies of the video by the end of January. See Dennis.

April ‘85 Following a morning flight dubbed “Sharkey’s Fantasy” all involved gathered at a (Chestermere) lake side lot where it was noted that while others “soaked up the sun” Dennis and Dan cooked hamburgers on a propane (what else?) barbeque. Later the post-feast silence was broken when Dennis was awakened by a cold water shower and then escalated into a “water war” and as the day was winding up “Dennis rescued a youngster as her kayak drifted out beyond her depth”.

In a report on Janet Astle’s solo; it was reported that “Dennis, his face wearing a sadistic grin, wasted no time in leaving her to her own devices as he nipped out of the basket barely 20 minutes into the flight so that he could pursue his own very special preparations.” Later “Dennis’ cheek muscles showed no sign of tiring as he put the finishing touches to his mixture of “Sprite & Chocolate ice cream” at a nearby puddle.

He was even immortalized in poetry:

A FUELISH NIGHT The stars were out, the winds were low, So Dennis thought he should go. He got his coffee, Torch and crew, His envelope and Walter to. Out to Chestermere they went, For a night flight they were bent. Every one was wide awake, As off they took across the lake. Then over the airwaves clear and cool, A voice said” ----! We have no fuel”

In his Chief Pilot’s Report, Dennis discussed licensing requirements and a number of safety tips surrounding pilot lights.

19 July ‘85 At the June 20 th General Meeting, Dennis discussed city flying procedures and prohibited zones west of the city.

In the Club’s annual photo contest entries was a “picture of Dennis Myrthu in the Toole and Cote with a hang glider underneath”.

Under his banner “LET’S BE CAREFUL OUT THERE”; Dennis wrote of problems with ranchers west of the city and suggested procedures (agreed to by a group of ranchers) for all pilots flying over sensitive areas. Issues with the control tower continue and low flying over the city were addressed.

January ‘86 “Any persons interested in getting their names on the Club training list, call Dennis Myrthu.”

In his Chief Pilot’s Report, Dennis discussed the issues surrounding the Club’s training program and it’s lack of applicants. He also reminded current pilots to check their license regularly so as not to let their medical lapse.

April ‘86 In his Chief Pilot’s report; Dennis again wrote of issues with some ranchers west of the city and, having met with some of them, proposed some guidelines for flights over theirs and all ranchlands wherein there is cattle. He also noted that “all pilots should from time to time review their copy of the Air Regulations and A.N.O.’s in order to remain familiar with their contents.”

August ‘86 At their April meeting: the executive approved Dennis Myrthu’s application to enter the Club in the Stampede Race.

In a report dated July 8, 1986; Dennis recounted, in great detail, an incident in which he was involved. In conclusion her wrote: “I am fortunate to be able to relate the series of events as they happened and to make recommendations which could help to prevent accidents such as this in the future.“

In an open letter to the Club, Dennis wrote: Thanks so much for your pain reliever and well wishes. Should be back in circulation in about a week. This sport of ballooning was just a bit more exciting than I expected. Will have some definite safety rules to recommend to both pilot and crew. Thanks again for your concern and hope to see you all at the next meeting.

Amid a write-up on Medieval Days; it was noted that “Stan acknowledged Dennis to be a superior pilot by presenting him with a “large” bottle of whiskey. Balloonists then converged on Alex and Joy Nagorski’s for a hot tub party. Although Dennis was there early, he mysteriously disappeared long before the water started to fly.”

20 November ‘86 In the Fall Fiesta write up; Dennis was listed as having scored middle-of-the-pack points but won the ribbon tie event.

The Chief Pilot’s Report noted “a recent encounter with the Air Regulations branch” prompted a call for pilots to “always be certain that the weather in the area where you plan to fly meets the required weather limits…and the ”need to be a little more conscious of our planning procedures prior to a flight.”

January ‘87 The Chief Pilot’s report spoke of a flight instructor’s seminar back I November. Principle speaker was Tom Shepard discussing qualifications required in the U.S. At the end “steps are now underway through CBA and MOT to have the same process adopted here.” Further, noise complaints from city flights have, of late, been mostly from pet owners and “finally a safety tip to remember regarding the use of propane fuel.”

August ‘87 In addition to his continued service as Chief Pilot, Dennis was now named as a member of the Newsletter Committee. A notice within the issue: ”ATTENTION CALGARY BALLOON CLUB MEMBERS Let’s get a group together and go south to Albuquerque, New Mexico Call Dennis Myrthu or Dan Carse for further details.”

And in the Chief Pilot’s report: “The emphasis of safety in the sport of ballooning and the need to be frequently reminded of hazardous situations which may occur can’t be stressed often enough.” Primarily the topic was weather related.

January ‘89 Among the volunteers who showed up for a recent maintenance day was…Dennis who was also part of a newly formed Flight Operations Committee.

From the Flight Operations Committee meeting: CHIEF PILOT: “Despite considerable lobbying of several of the other senior pilots in the Club, we were unable to convince anyone to take over the reins from Dennis as Chief Pilot. Dennis has agreed to carry on temporarily until we can coerce someone else to fill Dennis’ shoes. To ease the burden on the Chief Pilot, we emphasized the importance of delegating many duties such as check out flights and signing off new pilots. Doug and Dennis will prepare a summary of the duties and responsibilities of the Chief Pilot and continue the search for a replacement.”

21 PILOT TRAINING: “…Dennis has a few eager future students on his list…for now we should have an opening for 1 or 2 new students as soon as they get Dennis’ go ahead…some of the other Sr. Pilots, in addition to Dennis, must start signing off their students.”

April ‘89 For the period of November ’87 to October ’88: Dennis flew Club equipment for 2.2 hours (of course we all know how many other flights he was doing).

June ‘89 In a Letter to the Editor from Joan Martin: “It is to be hoped that our Chief Pilot will be consulted before we again invest time and effort in the search for a Club balloon sponsor. Dennis was around for and aware of the problems encountered during our previous two ventures in that direction.”

October ‘89 In the May monthly meeting minutes: ”Club will fund the training of the Club’s 3 senior pilots (Dennis Myrthu, Jennifer Lowndes, Doug Walker) at the Instructor Training Seminar.”

December ‘89 A Letter to the Editor suggested, “as we’re about to enter the 90’s” that we “celebrate that a few current members have been with us since the 70’s.” No. 4 on the list: Dennis “since ’76”.

The Chief Pilot’s Report dealt extensively with the proper use of tie-offs and quick releases.

Dennis was thanked “for being the balloonmeister in Drumheller.”

It would be interesting to know the background behind a cartoon, depicting two balloons in close proximity, in which a pilot in one is waving madly to a couple in the other. The caption underneath says: “Oh, God, it’s Dennis. Pretend you don’t see him!”

e e e That’s the first 14 years, as recorded in Champagn-E-Vents. Part two…the 90’s will be in the next edition. Searle

THE ANNUAL APRIL 1 ST NIGHT FLIGHT

The flight will go ahead as usual. Time, place and balloonmeister will remain the same, as well as the date. See you there if it’s not too dark!

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REMEMBER WHEN???

Anyone recognize this young fellow from “back in the day”??

Hint: He is a current Club member/pilot.

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.

February Jody H. 403-277-1811 TO SCHEDULE A FLIGHT Check with the Flight Coordinator to find March Norm G. 403-293-6129 out what days are available. April Brant L. 403-475-6800 Contact a Club Pilot to arrange for the May Cat T. 403-240-1491 flight and the rate. Call the Flight Coordinator and book the June Jody H. 403-277-1811 flight. ENJOY! July Bert 403-286-9208

August Searle 403-240-1491

23 2014 CALENDAR OF UPCOMING EVENTS

DATES EVENT LOCATION CONTACT Mar 3 CBC Executive Meeting TBA Norm G. Mar 12 CBC Monthly Meeting AeroSpace Museum Norm G. Mar 15 After Meeting Flight TBA Norm G. Mar 30 AFBS and CBA Annual General Meetings AeroSpace Museum Mar 31? CBC Executive Meeting TBA Norm G. April 9 CBC Monthly Meeting AeroSpace Museum Norm G. April 12 After Meeting Flight TBA Brant L. April 16 Newsletter Deadline Heather C. April 25-27 Spring Drumheller Happening Drumheller, AB May 5 CBC Executive Meeting TBA Norm G. May 9-11 Rimbey Balloon Festival Rimbey, AB Cliff S. 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 Father’s Day Event AeroSpace Museum Jody H. NO MEETINGS JULY AND AUGUST July 24-27 Billings Montana Festival Billings, Montana August 7 CBC Annual BBQ TBA Aug 29-Sept 1 Hespero Annual Balloon Race 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 High River Balloon Event-to be confirmed 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 Oct 17-19 Raven Weekend Raven, AB Linda T.

A Club maintenance day will be scheduled in late April or May – watch for further details closer to the time and plan to volunteer. All Club members are encouraged to join the Calgary Balloon Club Meetup group. Contact Tara L. if you have any questions In spite of the winter weather there have been a number of Club activities and events since the beginning of the year. We look forward to hearing about many more of these in the next newsletter. Photos are needed for the 2015 Club calendar. Deadline for submissions will be August 1, 2014. ì ì ì

24 CALGARY BALLOON CLUB MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION Membership Year is from January 1 to December 31

Name: ______Surname First

Address: ______

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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 $ ______

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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 25 Member App-Rev5 13/10

LOOKING GOOD IN ARIZONA!

Thanks to Sheri S. for sharing the photo.

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