Caption contest

Bob E. sent along this:
A warm and wet Christmas eve in Windsor NS.  Granddaughter is trying to stuff crackers in my nose.
Here's a shot from Halifax.

Come up with a great caption for this photo and become famous—in other words, no prize.


Some reading material for those stormy days.

Some great information here for folks who like to tinker with their own LBCs and particularly the SU fuel pump.  Some other great links there too.

Phil

http://userwebs.donobi.net/sufuelpumps/Fuel_Pumps/sufuelpumparticles.html

Enough information here to keep one occupied over Christmas:
http://www.chicagolandmgclub.com/techtips/

Successful Fund Raising

Susan, who organized the fundraising aspect of our holiday party, is pleased to announce that $400 was raised for the Multicultural Association. She thanks everyone who made this possible.

FABAC's Christmas Party 2016 Edition

     Rather than make a mess of someones house, we again opted to scatter the detritus of our yearly
Christmas celebration in the party room of McGinnis Landing.
  • Gary (naturally) opened with some messages from absent members. Jim B. and Ellie sent their regrets at being unable to attend as did Dwight and his wife. It seems that winter's chills have gotten the best  of many FABACians with a variety of flu, fevers, coughs, colds, snotfests and other fun.
  • A short, year-end summery was given and it was decided that while we'd enjoyed a good year, we need more runs for next year.
  • He also thanked David for keeping the website running smoothly. It's our central hub and we all appreciate what you do, David.
  • Our next meeting is scheduled for Jan 18th, 2017 at Sam Sneads. Please note that that's NEXT YEAR.
     Much merriment followed with Christmas Crackers providing goofy hats and the acrid smell of gunpowder. We (thankfully) avoided the temptation to have a group bang.
     Kelvin ran the Yankee swap in the absence Of Dianne E. who was home staying away from germy people.
     Gary explained the rules...at length, and we were off. This year's gifts saw a lot of tools and car accessories which where hotly fought over.
     Susan B. collected donations for the Fredericton Multi-cultural association.
     John B. held a special quiz featuring many Christmas themed questions.  As John had forgotten to impose any handicaps, Kelvin won it.
     Alex and Lise had departed earlier but had left a couple of Alex's drawings as door prizes.  Two gorgeous renderings of local scenes were given away which I assume will be framed and proudly displayed.
     *Don't forget to email me (bobearl@hushmail.com) for the download link to my picture quiz*
Bob E.

From FABAC Archives: April 26th, 2001!!

Notes submitted by Gary Arsenault for the meeting held on April 26th, 2001:
Three LBC's showed up. The keeners were:
Jim Woodford - 74 MGB
Bob Constable - 81 Spitfire
Gary Wood - 77 MGB
We agreed to get some things moving on the touring front:
The current tour schedule:
  • May 20/01- St Andrews day trip - John Dewitt and Mike Hines volunteered to be tour directors. Please call them for details.
    John - 357-5820
    Mike - 472-8064
  • May 24/01 @7 pm - Lunar Rogue* meeting to discuss how St Andrews tour went and to discuss next event. If Lunar Rogue is unavailable then Beaverbrook or Sheraton would be next on list. John Dewitt agreed to be point person on this.
  • June ????/01 - Arnold Boer agreed to organize a day tour.
  • July 13/01 - PEI British Car Day. Jim Woodford and Mark Jones obtained loads of information on the event. This was passed out to everyone. A reminder for anyone attending to book their accomodations right away...or be prepared to bring a tent.... which is OK too! Jim Woodford and Gary Arsenault volunteered to organize a local contingent to convey our way over there. Stay tuned.
    Jim - 363-4697
    Gary - 454-4546
Other issues:
  • There was some discussion on showing cars at the local Fton car shows. Jim McKeown is going to talk to those folks to see if there was any interest in having our group attend.
  • Gary Hetherington offered to have folks visit him at his large open area in Rusagonis. Sounds like a good sport for a get together.
  • Gary Arsenault is planning on having the group over for a barbeque sometime this summer.
  • We need a name! A brief discussion on a name for the group was had but no name came forward. It was agreed to bring final suggestions to the next meeting.
  • Everyone at this meeting was given a current list of folks who have attended the last meeting.
  • There was some discussions and interest in rallying. Hopefully those interested will put something together to see this happen. Sounds like a lot of fun.
  • David Nielsen is developing a web page for us and has that done a remarkable job at putting our information together. Everyone recognized the need for a common communications tool to help us get our message out or in as the case may be. This page will be instrumental in getting our group up and rolling and then more important..... sustaining it. Thank-you David from all of us. This is much appreciated and welcomed!
* It was decided later that we should consider choosing a meeting place that allows us to have a view of the parking lot for security and peace-of-mind reasons. Quite a valuable collection of cars when we are all together.

Holiday Season Party


Just a reminder that our annual Holiday Season Party is Wednesday Dec 14 at McGinnis Landing at 5:30pm. We will have a an optional Yankee Swap (limit $15.00/present) for those that want to participate and there will be a charitable event with donations(no limit) to the Multicultural Association of Fredericton, in recognition of their excellent work in assisting Syrian refugees. Susan Butterfield has organized this for us.

  Hope to see everyone there.

   Thanks
    Gary

Another famous British car recreation!

Read about Aston Martin's plan here.
Thanks to Bob E. for passing this along.

A wonderful article from the Globe and Mail

Peter Cheney’s final dispatch from behind the wheel. Read it here.
Thanks to David R. for passing this along.

Bob's Challenge 2016

Anyone wishing to partake in my (Bob E) quiz is requested to email myself at, bobearl@hushmail.com
I'll send the link to download the files.

The quiz will also be available on USB stick at the Christmas party.  Bring a thumb drive, laptop or tablet to grab the files.

Bob E

Morgan is this year's Rick Swain Choice.

A very special award presented each year at the British Motoring Festival in Windsor NS is the selection of the car that artist Rick Swain would most like to drive home. This year, Rick announced that his choice was a 1968 Morgan +4 SS owned by David Nielsen of the Fredericton Area British Automobile Club (FABAC).

New Product Now Available!

I have recently developed a unique LBC/Camper Conversion kit.  Comfortably sleeps two people.  Convertible so one person can sleep while the other drives.  Great for winter camping—keeps you totally off the ground.  For a small additional cost, can be factory installed.  We plan an initial production run of only 10,000 units, so order now before they’re gone.   For more information contact Larry Heinlein (serious inquires only please).


Interesting Car Story—Wolsley Hornet

Article about 57 custom coach built Wolsley Hornets built for a Heinz 57 (of course) soup contest.  They even came with a picnic hamper, an electric kettle and a 12V receptacle for warming some of Heinz’s best. The very small coach builder had no room to store the cars as they were being built, so stored them at a nearby nudist colony.
Phil

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/cars/classic/wolseley-hornet-soft-top-got-britain-buzzing/

Wednesday's Dinner Report

  Hi folks,
     We can't really call last night a meeting since there was little 'meeting' stuff done. Since we were stuffed into the restaurant and intermixed with civilians, Gary had to be discrete and keep it short.
  • The Sussex trip to Adolph's German Restaurant was mentioned as a rousing success.
  • The upcoming Holiday party was heavily advertised with a note regarding the Yankee swap (15 buck limit please) and a charitable donation offering (no limit).
    We chased out all the other patrons soon after eating and gave the floor to John for his now-expected quiz.  Either we're getting more knowledgeable or the quizzes are getting easier as I've noticed that the scores are getting higher.  Robert and Stephen contested the high score with Robert eventually gaining the upper hand with half of the questions correct. Here's a link to a video of the new/old Jaguar that John mentioned in his quiz and that I got wrong (Bob hangs his head in shame).
        And no mention was made about the pork chops.
  Bob E.

For those of you who would like something different in an English classic vehicle

I submit THIS ONE which really flies!
(Suggested by Dan N.)

Starting a 1909 Blitzen Benz

Next time we have a bit of bother with a cold start in our LBC, think about the procedure in starting the 1909 Blitzen Benz, a step by step process that takes about six minutes.  A remarkable car for the time, 200 HP and 140 MPH!  Not many of our cars can equal that.

1909 Blitzen Benz
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xMa3_tT5mKA

(Thanks to Phil for passing this along.)

FABAC Monthly Meeting Wednesday

Luna Pizza 91 York Street
5:30 or so
See you there!

Holiday Party charitable donations

Greetings:

At the last meeting it was decided to make donations to the Multicultural Association of Fredericton, in recognition of their excellent work in assisting Syrian refugees.

Susan Butterfield will collect the money at the Holiday Party on December 14th and take it to the Association.

Cheques to the ‘Charitable Education Fund for Newcomers' will receive a tax receipt for donations of $20 or more.

The Charitable Education Fund for Newcomers assists newcomers, including Syrian refugees to participate in diverse educational activities such as: newcomer scholarships for post-secondary education, homework clubs, subsidies for children & youth summer camps and educational programs.

Thanks,
Susan

I'm almost embarrased to be a male.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A8WpuPYnCCI

Son: "Mom, when I GROW UP, I want to play with cars in the mud!"
Mom: "You can't do BOTH, son..."

A great little car

http://hackaday.com/2016/10/31/the-lotus-sevens-the-real-most-hackable-cars/
(Passed along by Bob E.

Stages in a Restorers life

1. EUPHORIA bringing the barn find home, dismantling it and especially sorting through the boxes of bits.
2. DEPRESSION cleaning dirty, rusty parts with a wire brush in an unheated garage in the middle of winter.
3.DENIAL purposely not adding up the bills from Moss and Brown and Gammons.
4. FRIGHT being scared to death of the drill slipping and scratching the new paint job, having to take the shiny doors off to shim the hinges.
5. EXASPERATION why does the engine not tick over, why is the dynamo light still on, where is that rattle coming from.
6. SMUGNESS a wonderful drive out on a beautiful day, top down and that nice shiny bonnet in front of you.
7 WHAT NEXT open the garage door, there she is in pristine condition, all tools cleaned and stored away. What am I going to do for the rest of the day!

Thanks to Joe H. (who knows all about it) for passing this along.

Report on the OktoberFest run

       It rained—of course it rained.  It wouldn't be the Oktoberfest run without some rain. John Dewitt gave it the ol' FABAC try but finally gave in and put his top up as the wind became even colder.  
      The drive was pleasant and John's suggested alternate route only caused me to make one wrong turn, quickly indicated by numerous blowing horns and blinking headlights. The 124 is a great road being both scenic and in excellent condition, a rare combination in this province.  It's too bad that we have to follow some fairly bad roads to reach it.
     The gang from Moncton were already seated when we arrived but had kept plenty of spots for us.  The restaurant was almost devoid of other diners leaving us plenty of room to stretch out.  Once orders had been placed, Ovide and I did our best to sound official as we exchanged club swag.  Long-lost FABACian, Ernst Vangroenwood was welcomed back into the fold with promises of presents when he finishes restoring his early Series 1 E-Type.
     After dinner, the drizzle had let up, giving us the opportunity to venture outside to chat and admire the cars a bit.
     We then all departed for home via several different routes.  I picked up highway 1 in Sussex and headed towards Saint John with a takeout order for Dianne filling the car with Teutonic smells.  Despite my deep seated hatred of highways, I found this section to be most enjoyable. The route was nicely hilly and curvy with great scenery making for an entertaining drive.  The colourful and broken clouds masking a setting sun, certainly helped set a relaxing mood.
    Thanks to all who participated.
     Bob E.
Click on the Volvo for more photos.

Catharine Pendrel event Sunday at 6:30 in Harvey

Johanna sent this in the hopes that some FABACians might attend. Jim and Ellie made the trek out on the day of the race and kept people's spirits up, even  at the  scariest point of the race.

OktoberFest Run this Sunday Oct. 30

 Gasthoff Old Bavarian Restaurant
1130 Knightville Road
Menu here
Payment Cash or Cheque

Gather at Ramada Inn parking lot (north side) on Sunday, Oct 30th at 12:00 noon, rain or ...it's gonna rain of course so there's no contingency plan for sunshine.

    The route---
  Depart the parking lot at 12:15 along the scenic 105. 
-a short detour along the boring Trans Canada to avoid the partially demolished bridge.
-regain the 105 after Jemseg and turn left onto the 695 heading towards Cambridge Narrows.
-after Crossing the bridge at Cambridge Narrows we turn left onto the lovely and relaxing 710.
-the 710 makes a right turn somewhere after someplace named 'Cody's'.
-join up with the straight and boring (but thankfully short) highway 10,
-just before Sussex, turn left onto Roachville Rd.  I don't remember if there's much of a sign there but if we/you miss it, you/we can pick it  up soon after at the interchange.
-follow Roachville Rd a while until you see the right hand turn onto Knightville Rd....which is on the right.
-at some point the restaurant will appear on the right.

   Maps or GPSs are well advised.  I sometimes get lost and lead folks astray, please be aware of this.
We hope to get there around 2:00 or 2:30 PM.

Bob E.

Boston British Car Show

Here’s a link to some photos, some enhanced, of an all British car show at Faneuil Hall in the Quincy Market in Boston.  Some very nice photography.

 https://alanroseman.smugmug.com/Automobilia/Faneuil-Hall-Show/i-WJ62CfR

- Phil

A few more photos from the Nackawic run

Thanks to Margot for a nice set of photos including Jenny and her handler Kelvin.

Click on Alex for more photos.

Report on FABAC Meeting

   We missed you John....and the monthly quiz.  As the dinner wore down we all looked around expectantly but no one volunteered any form of after meal entertainment.  Hopefully this was a one time occurrence.
   Gary opened by welcoming Dianne E. back to the fold after her recent stay in the Saint John hospital. 
   He then offered congratulations on the running and large attendance of the last two runs. The 'Yes Bye Fries' run was well received with a marked increase in the attendee's cholesterol. The Nackawic outing was also warmly embraced by the club.
    In new affairs, the club was reminded of the upcoming Oktoberfest run on the 30th of this month. A notice will be posted here over the next few days.
    Gary re-affirmed the Christmas/holiday party  on the 14th of December back at McGinnis Landing. Popular events will include a Yankee swap (of course) and a donation basket.  This year's haul will go to the local Multicultural Association for their work with the recent influx of Syrian refugees. There was much discussion on other activities, but other than a club-wide snowball fight, nothing else made the cut.
    Kelvin then regaled us with the sad story of how Jennie (his new puppy) has developed a taste for seatbelts on his new car.  I almost suggested that the dog just stay home but I know how attached he's become to her.
    Next month's meeting will be held at *(flourish of pipes and drums!)*... Luna Pizza on York Street on the 14th 16th. Those porkchops are melting in my mouth already.
   Bob E.

Meeting Wednesday at McGinnis Landing

Summer weather! Tops down!
McGinnis landing around 5:30.
See you there!

Nackawic Leaf Peeping

A beautiful day to embrace autumn in all its glory!
- Jim/Ellie

And from Gary:
We had a great run to Nackawic with a total of nine cars participating. The beautiful and at times breath taking autumn colors were still very much in season as were the spectacular river panoramas that Ellie/Jim's and Stephen's photos show. We really are just so lucky to have nature's best right here in our back yard and it's all free to enjoy. Next year we should do it again but maybe as an autumn picnic along the river??

   We had a great lunch at the Whatchamacallit Diner that Alex/Lise so well organized for us. We then toured the "Big Axe" park on the banks of the Saint John River, yet another beautiful area.

   All in all, we saw some of the best scenery NB has to offer and it truly was beautiful, we had a great lunch with wonderful company and we did it all in less than 5 hours.

  Thanks to Stephen W for suggesting this tour, Alex and Lise for making the diner reservations and leading us to the Big Axe. 

  All in all a great day!
- Gary

See Jim/Ellie's photos here.

See Stephen W's photos here.

What is this?

...and why would I want to keep it?
- David

Well, a couple of you had pretty good answers, but here's the scoop. If you ever had the experience of finding 'crumbs' under your aging British sports car, you probably know that that is the symptom of deteriorating seat foam. You may also be aware that one can pay hundreds of dollars on just the foam for the TR6. So, I decided that it was past time for me to replace the foam—not with manufactured molded sets but with home-made components.

     The difficulty with do-it-yourself is the frigging time involved, but I am a natural born frigger. The foam I needed for two seats was less than $100 and consisted of two densities of high quality foam from "The Foam Factory". I was not going to take a chance on wasting any foam trying to get the tapering contours fitting just right so I thought the better idea would be to make a model or template out of solid Styrofoam, cutting and fitting, shaving and trying to get it just right. The photo is pretty close to a perfect fit. Then I made the two components from that. It went well. I did much research to find the right spray adhesive and other tips.

Here is the seat before recovering:

...and here's the seat completed before installing:

No wrinkles, no bulges.
Now I must get started on the driver's seat which will be a bit more work because of the upholstery damage. We'll see how it goes.
- David N.

Day Tour to Whatchamacallit Diner

Last meeting Stephen W suggested we try the Whatchamacallit Diner in Nackawic for a day tour. Alex H did the ground work in checking it out for us. So while there are still some beautiful colours on the trees, let's try it. We'll meet at the Riverside Resort near the Mactaquac Dam this Saturday (Oct 15th) and leave there at 11am via route 104 to Nackawic. After lunch we'll tour the local "Big Axe" park for some local colour and pix and then head home.

 This will be weather dependent.  Barb and I will lead the group.

  Please post your attendance so I can advise the Diner in advance.

   Gary

A Short Run to “Yes Bye Fries”

Despite thinking that we would have only four cars and seven people on the run, nine cars and seventeen people gathered at the New Maryland Irving for our departure at 11:45. As suspected, the autumn colours were much improved from last week and the day was bright, warm and cloudless.
Despite the fact that Yes Bye Fries is housed in a small trailer, the husband and wife team did an admirable job taking our orders and dealing with other customers as they arrived. The pleasant weather made our short wait for our food a great time to engage in typical FABAC member chatter. After everyone ate too much, we headed back up the highway to the Whittaker Road and out to the Patrick Owen covered bridge for a short stop. Downtown Rusagonis hadn’t seen that much traffic in some time.
All in all, given the weather, I think everyone enjoyed the 3 hour run.
Dwight
Click on the BMW for larger photos to view.






A Short Run for Lunch on Thursday to 'Yes Bye Fries' in Tracy

     Barb and I are just back (Friday, the 30th) from a short lunch run in the B to “Yes Bye Fries” located this side of Tracy on Rte 101. We think the drive would make a nice little excursion (2-3 hrs) for interested FABACians and friends.
     The menu is typical of a French fry truck (burgers, hot dogs, fish and chips) but with a Newfoundland theme since the owners are from the rock. The portions are large and as their sign says, “not figure friendly”. That likely refers to the Newfie poutine and such items as deep fried Mars bars and deep fried Oreo cookies. There is a little treed picnic site with tables and adequate off the highway parking.
     We’ll lead those who would like a fun little run on Thursday (the 6th), leaving from the New Maryland Irving at 11:45. For those interested, we’ll return via the Whittaker Road and Rusagonis’s Patrick Owen covered bridge, with a short stop at the bridge’s park.
     The fall colours have started and I expect that they will be even better by next Thursday.
NOTE: This will be a “dry day” only run.
Dwight

How about a run to Saint John on Saturday?

Moncton Foreign Auto Club has planned a NO RUSH RALLY FALL BARBECUE at TriStar Mercedes Benz dealer in Saint John. Free food!
Meet John DeWitt at Canadian Tire Oromocto 10:00 am sharp.
NOTE: The organizers need numbers to plan food, so please phone John now if you plan to attend.
 292-4855

OktoberFest Oct. 30

     Our annual Octoberfest run will be held on Sunday, the 30th of October. Please gather at the Ramada Inn (north side) parking lot for a 12:30 departure.  The route will take the 105, Trans Canada, back on the 105 meandering to Hwy 10 to around Sussex where we'll drive in circles till we find the restaurant by accident around 2:30. The gang from the Moncton Foreign Car Club will join us again.  This year it's our turn to provide the gift and I'm open to ideas.
- Bob E.

Gasthoff Old Bavarian Restaurant
1130 Knightville Road
Menu here
Payment Cash or Cheque

Kelvin's Christmas Tip

A notice to all the guy's wives or girl friends.
Lost for what to buy your guy for Christmas then how about a Princess Auto gift card? He won't have to go to Moncton or Saint John to cash it in as Princess Auto is coming to Fredericton. Yes, that's right, it's coming to the Corbett Centre, to the new building being built opposite Home Depot and could be here in time for Christmas.
Yubba Dubba Do.!!!

Ho Ho Ho

Our Christmas Party this year will once again be held at McGinnis Landing. It will be held on Wednesday Dec 14 starting at 5:30pm and will be in lieu of our regular monthly meeting.

  Details to follow.

  Thanks,
    Gary

Report on September Meeting

   Both we and the restaurant were unprepared for the turnout last night at the Saigon Noodle House.  This seems to be happening more and more and I suspect that we should book for a larger crowd from now on.
  • Gary (as always) took the floor.  He lamented that we haven't had many runs this year but the ones that have taken place, were all rousing successes.
  • The fall turkey run to the Carter House was well received and well attended despite the rainy weather.  
  • There was a suggestion made to attend the upcoming car show in Saint John but due to commitments, no one is able to go.
  • The traditional Oktoberfest run to Adolph's German Restaurant in Knightville will take place on the 30th (a Sunday) of October.  This is the last day before those with seasonal plates have to stop driving and will be a good opportunity to air out the cars before winter storage. This year it will NOT rain.
  • There will be a run to the 'Whatch-a-ma-call-it" Restaurant in Nackawic coming up soon. Watch for more information.
  • Next month's meeting will take place at McGinnis Landing.
  • McGinnis Landing will also host our Christmas party again this year. 
  The evening ended with one of John's quizzes.  Kelvin had left early, giving others a fighting chance. 
  Bob E.

Stowe 2016 as seen through the lens of John DeWitt

Maybe John or one of the others on the trip could do a little write-up relaying the adventures and Stowe experience. Meanwhile enjoy a sampling of John's photos here.

FABAC Monthly Meeting Sept. 21

 Our next regular meeting, Wed Sept 21, will be held at the Saigon Noodle House. They specialize in Thai/Vietnamese food.  I've eaten there many times and highly recommend it.

 It's located in the strip mall at the corner of Smythe and Prospect. We have a reserved section apart from the main dining area.



 The reservation is for 5:30 PM. There should be lots of free parking available.

  Hope to see many there.

   Gary

Dern Ferraris are always in the way!!

http://blog.dupontregistry.com/ferrari/close-jaguar-e-type-barely-misses-crashing-40-million-ferrari/

One expensive car almost hitting a REALLY expensive car.   I have to be impressed though that the owner of the Ferrari actually races it....my kind of guy.
Joe

Report on Kingston Tour to Carter House

 A big thanks to John and Shirley Ann for leading yet another great tour to the Kingston Peninsula for a wonderful lunch at the historic Carter House. While the skies were not overly happy with an occasional shower, the always scenic tour certainly made up for it. It's always been one of my favorite trips in NB and to top it all off the home made turkey lunch with the delicious home made pies made for a near perfect day. We had to skip out early and unable to continue with the tour to Dunhams Run Estate Winery so I'll leave others to comment on that portion of the tour. I did say we had a near perfect day but on our return trip home via Route 7 we ran into a major rain downpour that certainly pointed out to the weakness in our MGB top. Hopefully a new top will be forthcoming in the near future.

 All in all it was a great day and just so nice to get out and about.

  Thanks
    Gary

A couple of good videos from British archives,

You've gotta watch these.  Great historical interest regarding the manufacture of Smith's instruments.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yakzUc9NAo4
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kDdAN9c0GIw
Thanks to Bob E. for passing these along.

The Kingston Tour Turkey Lunch is ON.

We have 16 confirmed participants, just enough to justify the folks at The Carter House preparing their superb repast for our enjoyment. Please remember cash only, $20.00 per person. Will see you rain or shine at the start, 10:45 am next Sunday Sept 11 at the Ramada Inn, Fredericton (Sorry no one from Saint John has signed up.)
John B.

DON’T DELAY! SIGN TODAY!!

A gentle reminder. I need more reservations for next Sunday’s Kingston Run with turkey lunch at The Carter House otherwise I must cancel. Please email me now at jmbowles@nb.sympatico.ca to confirm. This is a rain or shine event especially arranged with local volunteers who prepare the three-course meal with local produce. Cost is $20.00 per person, cash only, no credit cards.For more Run details, see my earlier post. And please don’t delay, sign today!

John B.

Phil's Saturday trip to Loring Air Base.

Well, the trip to Loring was a disappointment. Spectators are not allowed at the "fast end" of the runway, only registered racers and pit crew. Even the starting area was at least 400 feet from the pit area and there are no provisions for spectators at all. It seems to be an event for racers, their crew and friends.
On the other hand it was a wonderful day for a tour on some excellent Maine back roads, driving through such places as Monticello, Fort Fairfield, Limestone, Mapleton, Ashland, Knowles Corner, Smyrna Mills and Houlton.
Phil

Here's an interesting suggestion for Saturday.

I’m planning to make an excursion to the old Loring Air Force Base in Limestone, ME on Saturday if anyone is interested in going.  The Loring Timing Association use the old Strategic Air Command 2 5/8 mile airstrip to set land speed records in many categories……..might even find an LBC or two.  J . Saturday racing begins at 8:00am and ends at 5:00pm Maine time.  It’s about a two hour drive.  You can get back to me at britcars@hotmail.com or text me at 292-4993.
Phil

http://www.loringtiming.com/

For your listening/viewing pleasure

...and features an MGB.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VhW1aX9l3fY
Thanks to Phil for the link.

SEPT 11TH KINGSTON RUN WITH TURKEY LUNCH

Sunday Sept. 11th, assemble 10:45 am Ramada Inn, Fredericton. Depart 11:00 am.
Route to Kingston via Hwy 105 and 695.
Rendezvous in Kingston with Saint John FABACians.
Return to Fredericton via Grand Bay-Westfield ferry and choice of Hwy 102 or Hwy 7.

Approx. 1:00 pm three-course home cooked turkey lunch at The Carter House, Kingston (prepared by local volunteer fund-raising group).
Note: cost is $20.00 per person in cash, no credit or debit cards please.
Approx. 2.30 pm visit Dunhams Run Estate Winery with possibility of seeing proprietor Tony Rickett’s collection of British sports cars.
Approx. 3:30 pm return to Fredericton or Saint John.

This is a rain or shine event. Reservations must be made by email to: jmbowles@nb.sympatico.ca by noon Wednesday Sept. 7th. There will be no refunds or cancellations! Reserve now and look forward to a great run, a fabulous meal and a special visit to one of New Brunswick’s leading wineries. For more information about the historic lunch venue Google “1810 Carter House Tea Room”.

John B.

Bob E. shares this.

It's amazing what you can get for $9.8 million.
Oh, and that is US$.
Check it out here.

Report on Stanley Fair

      We had a wonderful turnout for this year's annual Stanley Fair. In total we had 13 cars that participated! Surely our record in the three years we have been attending. The weather, while at times very grey (but dry), continued to improve until the sun finally broke through in the afternoon. The organizers, who have always appreciated our participation, responded by having our usual parking area nicely covered with crushed rock and leveled making parking much easier. An improvement that we very much appreciated.

      There was much to see and do, and just standing around and having a chin wag (as Kelvin would say) with interested car enthusiasts was fun. Many took in the fair ground activities including a visit to the animal barn, where one got to see a variety of farm animals including the most unusual "Mammoth Donkey". A huge Donkey that in its day could have been considered to be the 18 wheeler of the day. Many of our members were seen to be buying or admiring homemade sweets, preserves, quilts etc. I saw Tim walk by with a huge smile on his face and a comparable homemade apple pie to match.

      The special of the day at the fair ground diner was a full attired turkey dinner which many of our members had. The diner had a large selection of other delicious fair food for those of us who have an aversion to turkey other than on festive occasions.

      With that many of our cars in attendance it seemed that wherever I went I would bump into several of our members including those in the exhibit building that housed antique farm tractors, farming implements, a chainsaw collection that would have take a super hero to operate owing their size and weight and much much more. There were several of us at the horse pull gaining an appreciation of how beautiful and powerful these draft horses are. Amazing really!

     There were always several members at the antique engines display where several of these incredible old machines were seen operating. Their proud and knowledgeable owners only too eager to answer any questions—much like ourselves when asked questions about our cars.

      All in all I think it safe to say we had another great day at this incredible and historical Stanley Fair whose organizers and volunteers really deserve a pat on the back for what they have done there.

      Also a huge thank you to all of you who attended contributing much to this fair and certainly much appreciated by the fair organizers.

 Thank-you all,
       Gary

"OUR" Catharine Pendrel takes Bronze at Rio Olympics!

FABAC members are ecstatic that Catharine had this wonderful win at Rio. We can only imagine how her parents, Bruce and Johanna must feel. I'm sure they will gives us a full report at our next meeting. Older members remember meeting Catherine a few years ago and being so impressed with her skills and determination.
Click on Catharine for a CBC article.

Phil's nice two day trip to NS

     Want to drive some very nice, scenic back roads?  Go to Nova Scotia! I did a two day quick trip to Nova Scotia, leaving at 7:00AM Thursday and crawling out of the car back at home at about 10:30PM Friday evening.  The excuse for the trip was to attend our oldest grandson’s graduation from Air Cadet Camp at CFB Greenwood on Thursday afternoon, stopping in Truro to meet a friend to catch up and have lunch, staying with a cousin just down the road from Greenwood in Lawrencetown for the night and on to Lunenburg for a visit and lunch with friends.  Taking the four lane Thursday to Milford, I took Hwy 14 to Brooklyn and on to Windsor and Greenwood via the old Hwy 1.  I was a bit concerned when I saw a sign on Hwy 14 saying “Rough Road Ahead for 6 km”……trust me, Nova Scotia’s rough road equals New Brunswick’s best.

     CFB Greenwood graduated five hundred cadets, the ceremony and demonstrations lasting until 8:30PM.  Having about an hour before the ceremony at 5:30PM, I went to the Greenwood Military Aviation Museum but it was near their closing time.  The static display in their air park is impressive and I plan on returning.  http://www.gmam.ca/  Not a lot of personal grandson time as they had other activities and preparing for the flight back to Newfoundland in the morning.

     After catching up on the Nova Scotia side of family goings on that evening, I struck out on Hwy 10  Friday morning for Lunenburg.  Perfect twisty and hilly road with forest and lake vistas, then a complete stop about halfway in……major accident with the road closed for 2-3 hours.  Detours on several back roads, some GPS confusion (GPS wanted to keep sending me down logging roads) and head scratching over a map saw me in East Dalhousie, New Ross, then Chester, Mahone Bay and Lunenburg.  Nice visit with friends and a late lunch, a tour of the area, a few photos and on the road to Windsor via Hwy 14 and the long way to Truro on Hwy 215 and 236 along Minas Basin and Cobequid Bay.  An excellent drive with the exception of about 5 km of construction and culvert replacement.  Dinner in Truro and on the four lane again for a late arrival home.

     The “small” white 200 foot boat belongs to Mickey Arison, owner of the NBA Team Miami Heat and CEO of Carnival Cruise Lines.  The Mylin VI has a crew of fifteen and accommodates ten guests.

Phil

Click on any photo for larger pictures.

Come One. Come All. All Roads Lead to the Stanley Fair.

Hello Folks,
Last year we deemed the Stanley Fair to be a “signature” FABAC event.  The Fair is this Saturday, August 20.  The forecast is for sunny weather.  Last year the group met at the Brookside Mall at 10:00 and that worked out well.  I have been informed by the Fair Committee that we will be parking in the same area as last year, but that the area has been improved.  As Sandi and I will be meeting the group in Stanley, someone needs to volunteer to lead on Saturday (Maybe not Bob).  The Fair has been popular with our group the past two years and it would be great to have another large turnout, particularly since Bob and Rita had to cancel.  Hope to see you at the Fair! 
Cheers,
Larry

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And from President Gary:

Just  a reminder that the Stanley Fair is this Saturday. As in the past we would like to get as many cars there as possible ......and all makes. We've made this a "signature" event for the club so please try to attend. The event organizers are really looking forward to having us there again this year.

 In addition to the annual but not often seen sheep shearing and farm animal displays, they as well have wonderful and delicious home made sweets of all varieties for sale. These are always a big draw for ourselves as well as many others. You can also bring a picnic lunch or eat at the fair ground restaurant.

 I'll be leaving the Brookside Mall parking lot at 10am sharp and will lead the attending group to Stanley where we will meet up with Larry and Sandi.

  Thanks,
   Gary

THE GASPÉ 1,000-MILE TOUR

One thousand plus miles in top down weather with fantastic views, great food and places to stay were highlights of a recent week-long tour of the Gaspé Peninsula by John and Shirley Ann B. in their 1974 MGB.

Organized by the BATANS club, the tour featured a variety of British classic sports cars including Sunbeam Alpine, Austin-Healey and Curry Alder’s Jaguar E-type. Often with steep hills on one side and sea the other, the well-surfaced Quebec roads were a joy to enjoy – especially the many corkscrew turns that added real meaning to sporty driving!

The one big standout feature of the trip was the two-day visit to Percé, viewing Percé Rock close-up by boat, and a voyage around nearby Bonaventure Island, home to tens of thousands of gannet seabirds. Quite a sight!

The tour, which took many weeks of planning, was a great and popular success. One wonders if FABAC could at least organize a multi-day tour, say over a weekend to Nova Scotia. Any volunteers?

John B.

Click on the photo for larger images.

Bob and Rita's cottage annual eating/meeting

CANCELLATION
After consulting with every weather channel on the net, the local newspapers, the sun god, and of course Lord Lucas and Gary it was decided to CANCEL tomorrow's meeting at our cottage.
So Sorry, but just too much Heavy Rain is expected. Looks like Rita and I will be having Chili, Wings and Fortified Fruit Punch for the next month—some good news at least!!!

Regretfully
Bob and Rita

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Hoping everyone can attend the August 17, 2016 meeting at Bob and Rita’s cottage, on Grand Lake.  It will be a potluck supper, please advise what you will be bringing.

Bob will be waiting for you at McGowans Corner, on the old TCH, at 2:30 pm.  From there we will proceed on highway 690 to 111 Nichols Beach Rd.  We will have our famous Sangria/punch and few other refreshments for all to enjoy. Supper will be at 5:30 pm.  Don’t forget your bathing suit, chairs if you wish. There will be a prize  for who would be able to shoot the bull and throw a shoe with accuracy.  See you on the 17th.
- Bob and Rita

Bob and Rita's cottage annual eating/meeting

CANCELLATION
After consulting with every weather channel on the net, the local newspapers, the sun god, and of course Lord Lucas and Gary it was decided to CANCEL tomorrow's meeting at our cottage.
So Sorry, but just too much Heavy Rain is expected. Looks like Rita and I will be having Chili, Wings and Fortified Fruit Punch for the next month—some good news at least!!!


Regretfully
Bob and Rita

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Hoping everyone can attend the August 17, 2016 meeting at Bob and Rita’s cottage, on Grand Lake.  It will be a potluck supper, please advise what you will be bringing.

Bob will be waiting for you at McGowans Corner, on the old TCH, at 2:30 pm.  From there we will proceed on highway 690 to 111 Nichols Beach Rd.  We will have our famous Sangria/punch and few other refreshments for all to enjoy. Supper will be at 5:30 pm.  Don’t forget your bathing suit, chairs if you wish. There will be a prize  for who would be able to shoot the bull and throw a shoe with accuracy.  See you on the 17th.
- Bob and Rita

Bob and Rita's Cottage Picnic

I would just like to thank Bob and Rita for all their efforts preparing for this event which unfortunately had to be cancelled due upcoming weather. I know we would have had a great time as we have had for every occasion that we have been there.

 Thanks, Bob and Rita.

  Gary

The Castletones please the crowd!

A wonderful evening at Kelvin’s of great music and singing by the “Castletones”.
A very talented group of musicians.
- Ellie and Jim B.

(Click on Kelvin to see larger versions of the photos.)
 



FABAC was well represented.




Beautiful detail photography of what we love

Some great photography here.  Lots of photos on his site of other makes and subjects too.
 - Phil
 http://www.karlnoakes.com/vintage-british-automotive

Kelvin and the Castletones Perform Sunday

The band that I sing with, currently called the Castletones, is performing a small concert at my garage this Sunday the 7th at 5.30 onwards. It is open to family and friends.
If anyone from FABAC would like to hear some live music  ( 60s 70s pop and rock ), you are most welcome to join us.
A light supper will be available around 6pm followed by two sets of 30 mins and 45 mins.
Please advise numbers either as a comment to this site or direct on 472 9895.
Thanks a lot
Kelvin

Kart Grand Prix UPDATE

Hello Folks
It looks like there is not sufficient availability/interest for a Kart Grand Prix next week.  Maybe next year we can get the competitive juices flowing and determine the FABAC Grand Prix champion.  Cheers,
Larry H.

New Bristol Bullet... thoughts?

 Hmmmm

  • Austin Healey 3000 hood scoop
  • BMW M3 side louvers
  • Chrysler Crossfire roll bars and trunk profile
  • Volvo p1800 tail fins

Nothing new here folks
But I want one in blue please

Ralph

NB Antique Auto 50th a great success

Eight or nine FABACians ventured out this morning to join in the celebration. Click on Ellie to see a sampling of vehicles—there were MANY!

https://www.flickr.com/photos/53035217@N00/albums/72157670750362960

50th Anniversary NB Antique Auto Club SUNDAY

As part of our celebration, we are inviting all car clubs and car buffs in New Brunswick to celebrate with us at our 50th Anniversary Show N Shine, which will be held on Sunday July 31st, 2016. The location will be the Exhibition Grounds, on Smythe Street in Fredericton NB, starting from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM. There is no registration fee, just come and celebrate with us on this historic occasion.
- NB Antique Auto Club

Sunday Run to Evandale and beyond

I took a run on Sunday down Route 102, bumps, ruts and all, with John DeWitt.  I haven’t checked too closely, but don’t think anything fell off the car.  Stopped at a car show at the Evandale Inn.  Lots of interesting cars and one LBC, a 1960 MGA in very good nick.  Spent some time with Jerry Wilcox and watched him demo his Wright Cyclone Radial from a TBM Avenger—it drew a large crowd!   We moved on to Grand Bay-Westfield and Saint John where we stopped at the Homeport B & B where we checked out Ralph’s Jensen Healey.  Looks like he’s making good progress and the new floor replacement looks very professional.
Did anyone else venture a run in the heat last weekend?

Phil
Click on any photo for larger images.

Changing the wiper blades on an MGB. Good Limey design!!!


Possible Sunday Ride July 24

Some folks may be interested in a ride down the bumpy 105 to Evandale on Sunday for the Fred Howland Memorial Car Show at the Evandale Inn.  It runs from 10:00AM to 3:00PM.
http://www.evandaleresort.com/

As well, the NB Antique Auto Club is holding their 50th Anniversary Show & Shine at the Fredericton Exhibition Grounds on July 31st.  Below is a couple of paragraphs taken from their website.

Phil

This year the Club will be celebrating its’ 50th Anniversary as a Provincial Car Club.  We have seven regions, 400 plus with members and spouses & partners, a total of between 750 – 800 people involved, which is a credit to the success of Gorden Armstrong’s vision and the Members, Area Directors and Executive of the NB Antique Auto Club.

As part of our celebration, we are inviting all car clubs and car buffs in New Brunswick to celebrate with us at our 50th Anniversary Show N Shine, which will be held on Sunday July 31st, 2016. The location will be the Exhibition Grounds, on Smythe Street in Fredericton NB, starting from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM. There is no registration fee, just come and celebrate with us on this historic occasion.

Click on FABAC Automobile Ads (1 item listed) in the column to the right for more information and photos of the MGB for sale.

Windsor Run 2016 by Bob E.

      Now this is what it's all about—a great road winding along the ocean with endless vistas around every turn, perfect weather, and good folks to enjoy it all with.
      At the Crow's Nest Restaurant  (http://www.shoreroadseafood.com/) Joe had decided to throw caution (and tradition) to the wind and continue down whatever road we were on, hoping it would get us to Windsor.   The road turned out to be magnificent and was one of the highlights of the trip. 
       And highlights there where aplenty.  Dinner at the Suwanna Restaurant on Thursday evening was a huge event in terms of not only the food but the company. Several old friends from the US had turned up at Ralph and Karen's place and joined us for supper. They would be accompanying us to Windsor and we had a terrific time getting re-acquainted. 
      The ride on the new ferry gave us lots (and lots and lots and...) of opportunity to compare it to the old one.  We were worried that the fog would dampen the drive up the valley but it cleared as soon as we disembarked.  The group then split, allowing the Americans to play tourist for the day.
      Friday evening saw part of Downtown Windsor blocked off allowing the cars to be displayed on the road.  With numerous pubs and eateries along the road it became dinner and drinks with a show.
     The show itself couldn't have been better.  Kelvin, Ralph and Joe had staked out the premiere spot under the trees near the entrance, and while we assembled his banner, Kelvin busied himself with the all important task of making the morning tea.  More FABACians joined us with the exception of Sandra-Larry and Gary.  They had to sit with all the Triumph folks as Triumph was the featured marque this year.  Sandra and Larry dressed for the part and put on a fun presentation.
     The show attendance is again up this year with something like a million cars on the field.  They kept arriving all morning and into the afternoon.  The homemade Bentley Speedster replica was the star, arriving under its own power this year. The crowd went silent when she arrived, in awe as the driver/owner/builder proudly steered the great craft onto the field.
      David came away beaming as his car was chosen as the 'Car We'd Most Like to Drive Home'.   David mentioned that he would have liked anything but his Morgan.
      The signature event was just that, with FABAC making a good showing of itself.  I'd like to point out that a few non-LBCs went along to enjoy the weekend. While we couldn't put our cars in the show, the weekend trip was muchly enjoyed. 
   Bob E.

Notes from July Meeting by Bob E.

The July dinner took place at Sam Snead's.  We ordered food, ate it then went for ice cream.
.
.
.
Ok....a bit more than that happened.  We were initially horrified when Gary didn't show up and were somewhat directionless until David N. took control. 
  • Larry gave an enthusiastic report on the past weekend's British Car Festival in Windsor N.S.   He proudly reported that our very own David won the coveted 'Car I'd Like to Take Home' award.  This is a big feather not just for David, but for the club since Kelvin had won it two years previously.
  • Larry also tried to woo the club into a kart day in Dieppe.  The proposed date is the 11th of Aug with a cost off fifty five beaver bucks.
  • John, looking resplendent after his recent hospital stay (no, he wouldn't show off the scars) mentioned that the sorta-Thanksgiving run to the Carter House in Kingston is on again.  It's on the 11th of September.
  • Joanna, while massaging aches and pains from being glued to her bicycle for a solid month, announced the results of her fundraising and thanked all who supported her.
  • The next meeting will be the visit to Rita and Bob's cottage on the lake.
  • aaaand of course the meeting included one of John's quizzes.  With Joe and Kelvin (thankfully) absent it was a tight contest.
   Eventually we headed off into the sunset and most of us wound up at Tingley's for ice cream.
Bob E.

Mini Grand Prix Kart racing opportunity

Last night at our meeting we discussed a run to East Coast Karting in Dieppe for an afternoon of “friendly” racing and/or more leisurely touring on the Kart track.  Thursday, August 11 was proposed.  The idea is that we could go down as a group, have a picnic lunch on the grounds and then engage in some competition.  They require a minimum of 8 people and have confirmed that August 11 is available. 
If we do the Mini Grand Prix:
  • Minimum 8 People (55.00 Per Person)
  • 10 Minute ​Practice & Qualifying
  • 10 Minute Heat Race
  • 10 Minute Feature Race
  • F1 style starts
  • Electronic Time & Scoring
  • Trophies & Champagne available!
 
Please let me know, via a comment, if: 
a)  you are interested in this proposal in principle  
b)  whether you are available August 11. 

If there is sufficient interest in the notion of going there, but not enough people for August 11, we can explore other dates.  
- Larry H.

Stowe anyone? Ralph's going.

Great weekend (at Windsor) although getting pretty warm in the valley for us coastal dwellers.

Wondering if anybody is going to Stowe this year.

I have just booked the weekend for myself. My plan is to do a parts run for my Jensen and then meet up with Tim (green 74 Jensen Healey) at his shop and for me to drive his JH and he will take his TR3 the rest of the way.  Could not turn down an offer like that now could I.

Ralph