Any other LBCs out and about?

Selfie of my son and I after getting home from a Boxing Day jag drive!   Let the good weather continue!
Joe


Normally we talk automobiles...

...but Paul B passed this along for those of us who delight in things that fly. This video shows five Airbus airliners flying formation. Felt good to me.  :-)

http://sploid.gizmodo.com/watch-airbus-pulling-a-mad-stunt-with-1-5-billion-wort-1674026721

Nice old Jag

 Well, the driveway is done, so I’m cruising on the Internet and came across this short video. The sights and sounds are enough to get the heart stirring (not in the same way as clearing the driveway!) and wishing for summer already.  The SS100 is one beautiful car!
Phil
http://www.mossmotoring.com/ss100-jaguar-sights-sounds/

Selected web sites

For the life of me, I can't remember who I promised these links to during the party on Friday.  Several people wanted them so here they are...

--James May's Drinks to Britain.  An entertaining romp in an old Rolls with wine snob Oz Clark and a mini-brewery in a towed trailer...what could be more fun?  It's eight episodes split into 16, 15 minute pieces.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=go3rIKghpIE&list=PL9FE7522DE1107B7B

--James May's Cars of The People.  Three one hour episodes. Each costs $2.50 and are well worth it.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r9MPuOqLYN8&index=1&list=ELc7crVFju0VCb43-nbyb3dw

--Trains of India, National Geographic.  Wow.  This video is beautiful and moving.  Two hours of
stirring and haunting music, cinematographic vistas that take your breath away, and a soulful narration.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HkKtU5JxCtM

--Summer outing for this coming season.  Old British cars in the Australian outback.  You'd've
thought Mad Max was gone...not so.  Watch this trailer with the sound WAY up and in full screen,
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rtKfNYpXp3c

Bob E.

FABAC Christmas Party Charitable Donation

John and Anne just informed me that the total of our Christmas Party donation to a charity of their choice was $180.00. They have decided to make that donation to the Salvation Army.

 Many thanks to all those that contributed. I'm sure those funds will be much appreciated and beneficially used this time of year.

  Merry Christmas to you all,

            Gary

Saturnalia party report from Bob E.

    The year ended with a blowout of biblical proportions at Anne and John's place. The food was stellar (of course) and very little was left to be taken home.  The cheese cake, despite being still somewhat frozen, was inhaled in record time.
     Gary delivered a synopsis of the year and all were surprised to hear that we held almost three dozen events throughout the season.  Many of the outings were small and spur of the moment but that might possibly have been why we had so many.  He urged the gathering to continue in this vein. 
     John B suggested that we start an initiative to advertise and gain more members. This suggestion was warmly received and several ideas were batted around.
     It was nice to have Ellie and Jim attend after a long absence.  Family commitments have kept them busy and we all took the opportunity to play catch up. 

Christmas Party report from Gary

Just wanted to say a few words about the wonderful Christmas Party that John and Anne put on for us at their place Friday evening. From the photos already posted to the site you can see how much we all enjoyed ourselves. The food was delicious and abundant as were all the various desserts. In true FABAC fashion the only time it was truly quiet was while we were all seated and enjoying this wonderful meal. What made the whole event the success it was, was the inviting and warm welcome we were all made to feel by John and Anne. In true Christmas spirit they provided all of us the gift of friendship and fellowship of the highest order. It took a lot of work to put on this event and we all thank them for that and wish them the best for the Holiday Season.
  Many many thanks
       Gary

FABAC Christmas Party

When: anytime 5:30 or beyond, Friday, December 12th
Where: Anne and John C's home at 29 Jupiter Cres, Hanwell (on the left on Hanwell Road just before Deerwood)
Why: FOOD, friends, and fellowship
Phone: 459-8677
 
We would like to wish all members a very Merry Christmas season  and also we look forward to more adventures next year.
We also would like to send another thank-you to Kelvin for his assistance in bringing back our Brewery find.
See the attached pics.

Mexican 2 CV Bob and Margarita Rita

Click on any photo for a larger version.





Automobilia Collection for sale

This email may be of interest to some of our members:

My name is Greg Corkum; I am retired and privately selling my collection of Automobilia. In this little package of British literature there should be something of interest for club members.
For Sale:

Six publications from The Motor, a British publication, later to become just Motor and in 1988 absorbed by Autocar.

Christmas House Tour

Some members might be interested in joining me on this tour. It's great seeing our young people thinking of others instead of themselves. Everyone loves beautiful Christmas decorations.
Kelvin

How about a 28.4 litre four-cylinder engine?

Hi David,
     Just saw this on Daily Planet.   WOW.  Love the 2 second lag from turning the crank until it fires and runs.  Gives the person starting it time to clear the Beast before it explodes.  Just think of this next time you think the Morgan is running a bit rough.  But then again it does have a 28 liter engine and no muffler to speak of.
     Think about it 28.4 liter divided by 4 cyl. =  7 Liters per cylinder or 4 and a half times the total displacement of my MGA in every cylinder.
- Ralph
Click on the Fiat for the YouTube experience.

Christmas in the Village Run

    So there I was, standing in a gentle drizzle, sipping a cuppa by the parking lot behind Timmies when, Wiff!, Bam!, Stash!, Grab!, Screeech!.....I found myself in the back of an unmarked SUV heading out of town.   Fearing that I'd been abducted by spooks from CSIS I was relieved to see the smiling faces of the Strangs, Pat and Dave in the front.  The three of us did our best to represent FABAC to the massed crowds in Gagetown.  Attendance seemed to be down from years past and I noticed that many businesses where not open this year.  Despite that...and the incessant drizzle, we wandered around and had an enjoyable time.  The crafts were quite clever (and expensive) with Pat taking a shine to a clever soldered penny bracelet.  It was also somewhat disappointing to see items we'd used in years past being sold as 'antiques'.  
     All that shopping had worked up quite an appetite which was sated in the Creek View Cafe with a late lunch/early supper over which we gossiped about everyone who hadn't made it to the run.
    Bob E.

Phil reminds me that maybe some of you are not aware of this excellent online site:
http://www.sportscardigest.com/

Christmas in the Village this Sunday

For your motoring pleasure, the following diversion is offered....
http://www.villageofgagetown.ca/residents/events/christmas-in-the-village

Sunday, the 30th....
It's proposed that folks who wish to travel ensemble, assemble at the Timmies on the corner of Regent and King (large parking lot behind it) for a 1:00 PM launch.  We'll take the Princess Margaret Bridge over the river then return to the south side on the Burton Bridge (I just like bridges)
A short drive down the 102 will get us to Gagetown in the early afternoon for browsing and perhaps a light late lunch or early supper. 

Weather will probably suck.  Top-up driving will be allowed.
Bob E.

Report on November FABAC Meeting

     The under-new-management Blue Door restaurant was the scene of November's dinner meeting and I'm disappointed to report that the floor still slants.  In a building that's over a hundred years old it's called ambiance.
    We had a pretty good crowd and John, hanging onto the chair back to remain upright on the tilted floor,  started the evening by offering a stack of car magazines to the gathering. Gary, having markedly better balance, followed this with a quick recap of the last two runs of the season.  He also announced that the signature event of the season is again scheduled for next July in Windsor, NS.  Yes!...the BFM is on!  July 10th to the 12th.  Book your ferry trip now.
    The club's Christmas (or 'Xmas' for us non-believers) party will be on Friday the 12th of December at Anne and John Crumley's place.  Further details will follow as we get closer.  Many folks experienced shoulder sagging disappointment at the news that there will not be a Yankee swap this year.
    In two weeks on the 29th or 30th of November there will be a run to Gagetown for their Christmas in the village celebration.  This will be for BDDs only...no LBCs.  The next meeting will be at Luna pizza on the 21st of January.
   Of course....(wait for it......................)
   ...the evening ended with one of John's quizzes. 
   ...aaand of course that darned Kelvin won it...again.
    Bob E.

Next FABAC Meeting November 19th

The November meeting will be held at the Blue Door Restaurant (corner Regent and King) starting at 5:30pm. We have an upstairs section reserved.
Here is the menu:    http://www.thebluedoor.ca/menu.html
Hope to see you there,
     Gary
 What happens when old car guys get sent to the Nursing Home.
(Thanks to Jim B. for passing this one along.)

Suggestions, anyone?

I was trying to build a case  by way of graph to present to the owner of a pair of very rare old British cars I am wanting to purchase here in Saint John.  Despite months of pleading with the owner and showing him reams of data of actual sales in the recent past he was way out touch with reality on his asking price at 5X the reasonable market value.  He was convinced because he had 2 of the 20 made they would be worth their weight in gold.  The case I was trying to display for him was that scarcity of a model or marque does drive the price of a car up to a point BUT that at a certain point (i.e. when the car becomes an orphan) the interest and therefore the desirability can in many cases drop the value dramatically.  Of course this does not apply many models like a DB4 or classic Rolls Royce but does apply to the value of his car as it is so obscure as to be unknown by the collector/enthusiast community.  No celebrity drove one, James bond did not drive one in a movie. It was not a styling masterpiece like an EType or game changer like an AC Cobra. It was just an ordinary car that did not sell so well in the day. And now after 16 years in his basement it is rather worn out.

This has not been as easy as I thought it should have been.  I should have paid better attention in statistics class.  So if anybody out there know how to plot a three way graph of price verses availability verses desirability. HELP

But in my hunt I did haul this link off the old interweb Hagerty British car index. And I thought it would be of interest to the club members as many of the cars used in this are within our members tight little grasps.  I see now that what I suspected is really true and I do really need to increase the stated value amount insurance on the MGA.

 Ralph H.

???

I'm sure you'll know what the following numbers mean.  I was going to rebuild the head this winter anyway and am pulling it off.  I did a compression check before pulling stuff off and can see why I had a bit of a 'miss' coming back from the restaurant a few weeks back.

Winter means spending some time with wrenches. 
Here's Bob's first in a series of technical quizzes.
What do these numbers mean?
...and more importantly, what do they mean?

  6     5      4      3     2     1
115  140  135  150  150   25(!)

Answer on Wednesday at the November dinner.
- Bob E.
I have just learned of a fellow here in Saint John looking for a good Austin Healey 3000.  If you have or know of such a beast please drop me a note.
Ralph

Important Christmas Party info request

It's time to ready ourselves for the annual FABAC Christmas Party. As most of you know, the Crumleys have offered to host it this year. Anne asked me to request that you let her know what potluck dish/item you plan to bring to the party. Why not do it now: email Anne here.

Email from Margot and David

The photos of Rob/Nettie’s Jag prompted me to bring up these photos.  They were taken on Aug. 8, 2009 when we went to the Rexton show, then on to the Buctouche boardwalk and a lovely dinner at a nearby inn - the name of which escapes me.  The car photos were taken on the way home as the sun was setting.  All in all a lovely day. 
David R.
(Click on any photo for a larger version.)
Rob—fit and happy on that beautiful day.
Carolyn and I remember that fabulous meal.
Robbie and Nettie's Pre-Jag vehicle
Bye for now!

Nice Email from Nettie and Rob

Hi David from the Hoggs. 
Took the Jag out probably for the last run of the year today.  Although it was -19c and it warmed up to -13c, she performed nearly flawlessly.  No heat to speak of and stumbling because of the cold while her occupants were clad in long johns, mitts and furry hats.  We went to one of our usual haunts for brunch at the Sawridge Hotel where Mr. Hogg had several helpings to ward off the cold.  We decided not to push our luck by going too far away, so after a short run we returned home and safely deposited her back in her nice warm  garage.  It looks like the club had a great summer and we sorely miss the wonderful fellowship that we had with the members.  Hoping we find you all in good health and (spirits).
Regards,
Rob and Nettie


XJ13 engine replica project

A gentleman on the Jag-Lovers forum has been building an XJ13 replica accurate in every detail.
Here's a short video of the engine being fired up:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GYQVBQX6iKU&feature=youtu.be
Bob E.

Tom Magliozzi has passed away. RIP

I have been a BIG fan of Tom and Ray Magliozzi—Click & Clack the Tappet brothers—ever since I stumbled upon them decades ago. We were driving home from somewhere in the USA listening to National Public Radio and tuned into "Car Talk". The infectious laughter and wit of the host brothers hooked me for ever. I believe all of their program episodes are available free online. They started back in 1977 and retired in 2012.
I hadn't seen this Nova Special before, but I am sure you'll enjoy it. Tom had owned a 1952 MG-TD for many years.
http://gizmodo.com/go-car-shopping-with-click-and-clack-in-this-2008-doc-1654276637
- David N.

Want your gas free of Ethanol?

I think we all knew that hi-test (91) was free of Ethanol here in New Brunswick, but did you know that some stations provide ALL octanes without it?  Here's a useful site:
http://pure-gas.org/index.jsp?stateprov=NB

A request

This is an unabashed call for a pickup in Moncton requiring a truck or van. My brother-in-law is giving me his power generator (after I gave him some money) but it won't fit in my car (or the Jag).  They live just off the highway by the casino (...and isn't THAT just the handiest thing).  Should anyone be driving by that way with a van or truck, I can give directions and be generous with gas money and beer. 
   Bob E.

Report on the Oktoberfest Run

   Today's run ended on a much different note than it started...but I'm getting ahead of myself. 
   Three groups braved the pounding runs and converged on the Bavarian restaurant near Sussex from Saint John, Moncton and Freddy.  A group run designed to foster camaraderie among us car fanciers, it saw the foreign Auto Club from Moncton meet us at one of our traditional fall haunts.  There was a large turnout and between us we filled one end of the restaurant.
   The drive down found us on a few different back roads (the 710 and #10) which proved to be quick and fun.  The rain was light and didn't dampen spirits in anyway.  Once at the restaurant we greeted the fine folks from Moncton and Saint John and presented them with our beloved MG mud flaps as a token of friendship.  It's hoped that they will be exchanged (again) at our next get together and that this becomes a long standing tradition.  Take care of them Ovide, they're our club's most prized possession.
   After dinner and chit-chat, we headed out into a downpour of biblical proportions.   The crew retraced the route with folks splitting off onto the highway at various points.  Finally on my own I was rewarded with dry roads and blue skies for the last few Ks.
   Bob E.
Click on the mirror to see more photos.

Hampton Middle School Car Show

Good morning I am putting out a invitation that we will be having a car show with some great prizes to be won. This will be an awesome car show for the students and families of Hampton Middle School on October 31 from 12:30 - 2:30 located at 11 School Street Hampton, NB We would like to have as many members that are able to, attend this car show. The the kids and families are really excited about this event and this is the age when kids start to dream about the car they wish to restore when they are older. If you plan to attend could you just send me an message to confirm you will be coming. Please feel free to invite your friends to come and join us. Looking forward to seeing everyone in Hampton on October 31.
Dan Foote 1 506 832 6020
P.S. Please feel free to invite your friends and family who have antique, hot rod or custom cars or trucks and bikes.
- Dan

Details on the OktoberFest Run

We'll meet at the Ramada Inn parking lot and depart at noon (12:00PM) sharp down the 105. The Burton gang (assuming that there's enough folks to form a 'gang') will meet you after the Burton Bridge on the 105 (don't cross the bridge....again). At Jemseg we take the 695 to Cambridge Narrows.  After crossing the bridge we turn left onto the 710 which will join up to highway 10.  Just before Sussex we veer left onto Roachville Road then at Smiths Creek we turn left onto Knightville Road whereupon lives the restaurant.
Remember....cash only!
   Bob E.

Oktoberfest Run

I've booked the Bavarian Restaurant ( http://www.oldbavarian.ca/index.html ) for Sunday, the 26th at 2:00 PM.   Note that they only accept cash or cheque.  No credit cards or debit cards.   We've been there several times in the past and the food has always been amazing. 

*This is a joint run with the folks from Moncton*

On a completely unrelated note, will the person with the official FABAC MG mud flaps please contact me.
   Bob E.

The beauty of automation

Watch this detailed and fascinating video of modern automobile manufacturing showing the extensive use of robotics. (BMW owners will be especially interested.)
http://www.youtube.com/embed/libw1rV2McY?feature=player_detailpag
Thanks to Herb for passing this one along.
(I guess this isn't a Morgan factory. ;-) - David)

Report on October's FABAC Meeting

  A small but enthusiastic (and hungry!) group met at Brubaker's on Wednesday evening.
  • Gary opened with a recap of the runs that have taken place since last meeting and there were a good number.  
  • Alex and Lise were congratulated on their upcoming birthdays (a young 50...ish) and even more warmly congratulated on an impending celebration of 55 years of marriage. 
  • Herb proposed a trip next year to Atlantic Motorsport Park in Nova Scotia for a weekend visit.  We might even get some track time in. 
  • Kelvin offered to put on a Guy Falkes night on Nov 15th.  Watch here for details. 
  • Next month's meeting will be at the new Blue Door just down the road on King and Regent. 
  • A dinner run to the Bavarian restaurant ( http://www.oldbavarian.ca/contact.html ) near Sussex was proposed for the 26th of this month.  Watch for details here. 
  • With the boring stuff out of the way we got down to the fun part.  Kelvin circulated another recent auction find to stump the group.  We figured out pretty quickly that it was an inclinometer but for what?  It turned out to be for the forest industry to gauge the height of trees.  
  • John kept up the tradition by offering another quiz. That darn Kelvin won it....again. 
  • Despite the gorgeous and warm fall weather, two LBC's were seen with their tops up. You know who you are.   I'll be watching.
   Bob E.

Man who run in front of car get tired.
Man who run behind car get exhausted.
Man who drive like hell, bound to get there.

- Confucius (?)

FABAC Meeting Wednesday, October 15

Larry/Sandi have made arrangements for our monthly meeting on Wednesday, October 15, 5:30, at Brubaker’s on King Street in Fredericton.
Looks like a beautiful day for Little British Cars with a forecast of temperatures in the 20s!!!

Gobble Gooble

A beautiful day no matter what you were doing. Helen & Herb, Margot & David, and Carolyn & David took a leisurely tour via Nackawic to Kings Landing. Arriving there we met Tim just finishing a day's volunteering at the turkey shoot. In the parking lot, I spotted a beautiful blue Z4 that might hint that Bruce and Johanna were on the grounds somewhere.
I know four very stuffed travelers. 
A great day.
A little refreshment before dinner.
Is that 2 horsepower or 2CV?

A Plan for Thanksgiving Monday

If you are just looking for a leisurely drive, or you aren't stuffed yet and need more turkey, Carolyn and I are going to head out from the Riverside Resort and Conference Centre near Mactaquac.
Departure: 2:00pm
Route: 105 to Nackawic and back to Kings Landing
We'll use the Kings Head Inn entrance rather than the main entrance since we are not going onto the grounds.
Probably will get our names in for supper around 3:30 or so, for a 5:30 or later supper. Not sure how that works.
- David

A Halloween request

Hi there everyone.
My eldest grand-daughter is going door to door to collect food for the foodbank as part of trick or treat. She plans to go as Indiana Jones. She has the jacket, the boots, and the hat but needs a whip.
I wonder if any member has the courage to admit they have one and be prepared to lend it to her for the night.
 Thanks a lot.
 Kelvin

Thanksgiving Turkey at Kings Landing

The Nielsens are planning to enjoy the fine weather this Thanksgiving with a drive (we don't know where) in the TR6, and a traditional meal at the Kings Head Inn on Monday. The menu includes soup, cider or brown bread, roast turkey with sage dressing, mashed potatoes, vegetables and pumpkin pie served with real whipped cream, tea or coffee. Dinners are $20.95 pp plus tax (child portions $13.95 plus tax).

The Kings Head Inn hosts Thanksgiving dinner on a first come first served basis (running 11:30am to 5pm, Saturday through Monday). Reservations are only accepted for groups of 16 or more — which I am sure we can't organize at this late date —  but it is always possible to arrive at any time prior to 4:30 and add your name to the waiting list. Once your name is on that list, you will be guaranteed a meal but wait times will vary and this is a busy weekend. Although all three days are very busy, the staff suggests that Sunday will probably have the longest waiting times so we suggest Monday afternoon at 4:30 preceded by a run.

If you wish to visit the settlement, there would be an additional admission fee (Adult: $16.81; Senior (65+) / Student (16+): $14.68). There is no admission fee if you are only planning to have dinner, and you may take the Kings Head Inn entrance and park there. It is also possible to pay the necessary admission fee at the Inn should you change your mind or find there will be a long wait for your table.

If you can join us please e-mail no later than Saturday before noon.

Add drive suggestion, departure time/place and meal time.

Click on: Celebrate Thanksgiving at Kings Landing Historical Settlement!

I had a blast!

I was invited to participate in the "Lexus Amazing In Motion Driving Event" this past Friday afternoon.
It was most worthwhile with professional driver trainers focusing on advanced driving techniques involving vision (seating position and mirror settings), emergency braking, collision avoidance, slalom, and braking on turn.
Everyone got a chance to work through all the events with each of the seven Lexus models. Nice to be able to really get to know ABS braking on someone else's tires — repeatedly!
- David


"The Ultimate Car Trivia Test"

Some very interesting tidbits on this site:
http://www.rense.com/general96/cartriv.html
Thanks to David S. for passing this along.

An addendum to Ralph's story

Thanks to Sue G. for the photo:
Can anyone think of a really great caption for this photo?
You may recall the incident in which Ralph came VERY close to losing an eye unloading his Austin.
I expect Ralph can look back at it with much less pain now than when it happened.

Shelby’s First Ride – 1949 MG TC

Click on this MG TC to read the article.

Suspension systems

http://driving.ca/auto-news/news/everything-you-need-to-know-about-car-suspensions
Thanks to 2CV Bob for passing this along.

David says: I can't believe they didn't mention Morgan suspensions which provided a sliding pillar independent front suspension in 1909! (And still use it!!!!)

Next FABAC Meeting/Eating - October 15th

Brewbaker's Sienna Room
5:30PM

Thanks to Sandi and Larry for making the arrangements.

SUNDAYS RUN TOO GOOD TOO MISS – SO MANY DID!!

Sunday Sept 28 dawned bright and sunny with just six FABACians lining up at the Ramada Inn for a great day’s tour in perfect weather. So where was everyone else? Those that didn’t come missed a great route on paved roads through Princess Park on Grand Lake and into Minto, gorgeous fall colours, lunch at Caseys and tea at Kelvin Perry’s house on the way back to Fredericton. Two MGBs, a Triumph TR6, XK8 and two Bimmers made up the convoy. At the end of the run, Bob E. showed up in his E-type for tea and a showing of a Goodwood Revival video. All in all a super tour which I think everyone thoroughly enjoyed.
- John B.

Email from travellin' Phil O.

Looks like lots going on with FABAC.  Haven't seen a British car in two weeks, but lots of horses as there was a huge rodeo in town last weekend.  We're in what appears to be the pick-up capital of the world - Dawson Creek, BC - looking after our grandchildren.
Getting my British car fix from the FABAC site and other sites like Sportscar Digest.  Here's a link to 15 pages of Goodwood 2014 photos.
Phil
http://www.sportscardigest.com/goodwood-revival-2014-behind-scenes-photo-gallery/?awt_l=GW8vB&awt_m=K2EuO3C8Jes.C0

Photos from Jeff and Alison's trip to Stowe, Vermont

From the looks of Jeff's photos, the weather at this year's British Invasion seemed cooperative. Jeff has posted lots of photos, and attentive viewers will spot their beautiful blue XK8.
Click on this beauty to see all Jeff's photos.

NEXT SUNDAY’S RUN TOO GOOD TO MISS!

Next Sunday Sept 28, the open road, fall colours and lunch at Caseys will be the highlights of this impromptu run organized by the irrepressible John B. We’ll leave from the Ramada Inn at 12:15. The run will start along Rte 105, stop at Casey’s for lunch, then continue along Rte 690 through Princess Park to Minto then back along Rte 10 to Fredericton stopping on the way by special arrangement for a cuppa at Kelvin’s “Mug-A-Tea-or-Coffee Cafe”. Come one come all. No need to register ahead of time. Info: John B. 449-0562.

FABACTRS&PC outing

A tech visit will take place this Friday at Ralph's in Saint John.  He needs a hand with some big stuff but it should go quick and easy (bring gloves). 
I'd like to leave from my place (9 Hemlock Dr. in Burton) at 8:30 AM and of course take the old road as it looks to be another great fall day.  Please leave a comment here if you're coming.
  Bob E.

A video clip from CBC/NS

Topic: BATANS
http://www.cbc.ca/player/News/Canada/NS/ID/2523450411/
Thanks to David R. for passing this along.
All FABACians,
An urgent (and ridiculous) requirement demands the use of the club's MG mudflaps.  Whoever
has them please email me.  It will be worth it.
   Bob

Notes from the September Meeting

     Issac's Way on Queen Street sports numerous large windows offering a great view of Queen Street and the parking lot. This provided the early birds much entertainment as we watched Gary make repeated attempts at parallel parking. It was also fun to watch folks go over to Joe's Jag during the evening and drool.
     Gary started the fun with an overview of the previous months runs.  We've had several great outings and all showed their appreciation to the organizers.  He also made a plaintive call for fall runs to round out the season. Suggestions were:
  • Contact Foreign Car Club in Moncton and possibly join up with them for a fall run. 
  • Thanksgiving run to King's Landing for early supper. 
  • Evandale run (Rita & Robert)
   Upcoming runs:
  • This Sunday to Rossmount in St Andrews. 
  • A tech visit to Ralph's in St John. (this is not a regular run but an outing of FABACTRS&PC.) for Friday the 26th.
   John and Anne Crumley have offered to host this year's Christmas party on Friday the 12th of December. There was considerable discussion regarding fundraising and the traditional Yankee swap.  Kelvin has volunteered to be the club's fundraising coordinator.
    Kelvin followed this with a game of what's in my hand................(long pause)............The tool turned out to be an animal castrator.  It's anyone's guess why he would have such a tool.  He also showed off the prize he'd won in Windsor during the British Car Field Meet this past July.  It was a hand drawn rendering of his car by a local artist.
    Of course, the evening wouldn't have been complete without John stumping the gathering with one of his quizzes. He's venturing further afield with his questions behooving folks to expand their studies.  Movie trivia seems to be popular right now.
    The next meeting will be at Brewbaker's on Oct 15th.
-  Bob E.

Rossmount Inn for dinner on Sunday

 As I mentioned at our meeting last night, Carolyn and I are going to take the Triumph for a little spin to St. Andrews and have a meal at the Rossmount Inn. I have just contacted them and made a reservation for two but inquired about holding a table for six in case others might wish to join us.

Our reservation is for 6:00. If you wish to join us, please let me know(click here for email) no later than Saturday morning so that I can confirm numbers with them.
- David

The Car Rick Would Most Like To Drive Home Award

Click on Kelvin for a closer look at either Kelvin or his Westfield.
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 chose Kelvin's 1972 Westfield which resulted in Kelvin receiving a fine artistic rendition of the Westy—framed and ready for display. FABACians congratulate Kelvin on his win. Very much deserved!

FABAC Meeting September 17th

Reservations have been made for our next regular meeting at the restaurant Isaac's Way at 649 Queen Street. View their menu here.
John Crumley says we have a reserved area starting at 5:30pm.

 Hope to see you there,
     Gary

Pretty classy visitors


Neat Car

We are on a trip in The Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland and visited The Giant's Causeway in Northern Ireland near Bushnells. Saw this neat home built hill climb car in the parking lot. Didn't talk to the owner, but nearby person said it is powered by a BMW engine.
Herb W

Bring tour ideas to the meeting

 Our tour jar is now empty. We have lots of season left for tours/trips but nothing scheduled. Please bring an idea for a trip or tour that you would like to take on at our meeting on Wednesday.
- Gary

"Mystery Item" returns for FABAC Meeting Wednesday

For those who don't know about this, some years ago David started a "What's in the bag?" contest. Everyone at the meeting/eating had a chance to hold —but not open—a bag containing the mystery item. Then it was a matter of guessing or displaying one's immaculate knowledge of all-things-automotive. In most cases, the prize is the fame of brilliance.
Kelvin has promised to bring along a mystery object to our meeting. Put on your thinking caps!
The FABAC Traveling Road Show & Pit Crew will leap into action this Friday afternoon at Bob E's place (9 Hemlock Dr. Burton) to elicit repairs on John B's MGB.  His spoiler has a crack and as luck would have it I have fiberglass goo that should be used up before it goes bad.  Folks are invited to stop in and make fun of us over tea and coffee. 

Austin Ralph wonders:

if anyone else is going to the British invasion in Stowe  next weekend 18th to 21st.

2CV Bob asks:

Hola, could you ask the members if anyone would be going to the European car show this weekend in Owlshead Maine. There was mention of it back in June?

David N's report on his drive home in Joe's E-Type

     A few days ago, Joe offered me a seat in his beautiful E-Type if his wife Pat was unable to join in the Carter House run. Since both the Morgan SS and the TR6 were enjoying a rest, (so to speak) I jumped at the opportunity. Who would know at the time that I would be driving the E-Type all the way home!
     I should preface this with the fact that in 1969 I had my two Morgans for sale (for $4000 total!) with the plan of buying a brand new 1969 E-Type 2+2 coupe in gun-metal blue when Carolyn and I went to Europe on our honeymoon. No one wanted either of the Morgans so I kept them and never got the Jag. (The Morgans are worth a bit more now!!!!!!) So, Joe has my dream car. Here are my reactions to my drive:
1) Just how wonderful for Joe to entrust his Big Blue to my driving!
2) It fits! My 6'2" frame easily slipped in behind the wheel and no seat adjustments were necessary. Joe suggested adjusting the steering wheel out a bit which really helped. I had lots of leg room and lots of head room.
3) Joe's E-type is a glorious ride! It never twitched or got squirrely—never pulled right or left, but moved with precision to my every command. Steering was precise; engine was responsive; brakes were positive; the sound was glorious (especially after I skillfully detached the muffler from its mount!)
4) What really impressed me was how refined the ride was. The seats were comfortable and there was a wonderful sense of security and class about the interior. A fine vehicle!
5) For those of you who may not know the story, Joe bought this car dismantled! He never had the opportunity to learn about it by disassembling it! Over very few years, he has had his hands on just about every part of the car. He has restored upholstery, stripped, sanded buffed and polished, assembled, and somehow found every part he needed and how to put it all together. Sure, he had some help from the Travelling road crew of increasing fame, but I must take my hat off to Joe and his range of skills. I am impressed.
6) When I drove into Joe's garage I was depressed. Not because the drive was over but that Joe had cleaned and painted the complete interior of his garage. It is beautiful—mine is a MESS! Now I have been inspired (shamed) into getting started on cleaning up my garage. You know the routine: What to keep? What to sell? What to trash?

The Carter House run was perfect—just tell me how it could have been better! Thanks to John and Shirley Ann for making it happen, and thanks to Joe for the "frosting on the cake".
- David

Bob E's report on the Carter House Turkey Dinner Run

   What a day.  Having used up all the regular superlatives and adjectives for beautiful weather, great roads, gorgeous scenery, wonderful friends, and good food, here's the last few that fell out of the bucket when I upended it and banged on the bottom.
    The sky was achingly azure with cottony puffs bringing some decoration to it.  The usually potholed roads were, thanks to the impending election,  smooth ribbons of asphalt loveliness winding through the forests and tranquil farms.......argh...I can't do it. 
    Eleven cars left the Fredericton area and followed John around the Kingston Peninsula.  And yes, the roads, sky, and scenery were that good.  An hour or so went by all too quickly and we rendezvoused with several other folks from both Freddy and Saint John as we parked near the historic Carter house.  After much chit-chat and pumping Ralph for details of the Austin Atlantic he'd just bought, we were ushered inside for a turkey dinner with all the fixins.  We filled the two rooms and left little space for others.
    Eventually, with dinner out of the way, a short drive brought us to Tony Rickett's Winery for the usual short tour and tasting session.  Not content with all that, we continued following the river to the Westfield ferry where we met up with yet more FABACians putting the grand total to 16 cars for the day's run.   With the afternoon waning, but still warm and balmy, we headed back home on the 102. Except for Joe's Jag that is.  A cable fitting on the ferry's ramp had pulled his muffler free and while it was an easy fix ("Just kick here please.") he didn't want to risk the older road and took the highway.
    A big thanks to John and Shirley Ann for arranging the outing and leading the gang. 
    Bob E.

Rainy day activities

An email from Phil:
I was surfing around this morning and found a cache of LBC computer wallpaper photos on the Moss site.  Some great photos.
http://www.mossmotors.com/SiteGraphics/Pages/wallpapers.html
 As well, there are some paper cutout cars that might keep one entertained on a cold winter night.
http://www.mossmotors.com/SiteGraphics/Pages/papercar_cutouts.html
- Phil

KINGSTON TOUR NEXT SUNDAY SEPT. 7

PLEASE SIGN UP NOW.
JOHN B. SO FAR HAS 14 PEOPLE COMMITTED TO THE TOUR, HOME COOKED TURKEY DINNER AT KINGSTON’S THE CARTER HOUSE ($18 pp CASH ONLY) AND VISIT TO TONY RICKETT’S DUNHAMS RUN VINEYARD.
JOHN NEEDS MINIMUM OF 20 SO PLEASE CALL JOHN ON 449-0562 OR 470-7760 AND SIGN UP NOW.
SEE AUGUST 24 POST FOR MORE DETAILS.

Ralph H. acquires a rare 1949 Austin Atlantic A90

The newest member of the FABAC family arrived at its new home yesterday after a 30 year “rest”.  It was delivered with able assistance of fellow FABAC member Barry G. and by the proud Papa in a 16 foot trailer.  On hand to welcome the new arrival at home was Jim and Ellie B. Who will be pleased to know will be asked to be godparents to the bouncing baby 1949 Austin Atlantic A90 . The only mishap during the delivery was that  Papa Holyoke suffered a mighty whack to the head and eye and is now sporting a massive shiner.  Although in a loving family now “Austin” is most definitely an ugly duckling and an orphan with only 350 convertible left-handers originally made. It is one of only three or four known to have survived the past 61 years.  Austin is hoping to make a full and complete restoration over the next few years.  Mama Holyoke is not so sure about this.
- Ralph
Click on Ralph for a larger image.


Three more detailed photos from Jim/Ellie:



Saint John/St Martins trip

The Foreign Auto Club in Moncton has organized a wonderful event to Saint John including a free barbecue sponsored by the TriStar Mercedes Benz. This will be followed by a trip to St Martins.

 A number of you have already expressed an interest in perhaps attending. Here are the details:

A wonderful Cruise to Saint John, NB, this Saturday weekend, August 30th, from 11am to 1pm for a delicious free Barbecue meal at TriStar Mercedes-Benz and then after to a great trip through St Martin NB. on winding roads.
It’s going to be fun.

For all who plan on attending, please contact  Ovide at ovides@foreignautoclub.ca
so  I may advise the Tri Star Mercedes of the amount of Food and Drinks to prepare.

I'll be tied up on Saturday but for those who might be interested please organize your attendance with Ovide Theriault.

 Thanks,
  Gary

Big ass engine

Video of the first start up of this engine that Jerry Wilcox rebuilt with some help from some of the local pilots.  Came out of a crashed TBM.  Cool toy to impress your friends.
- Joe
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0PXek9VGEl0
Click anywhere on the engine to see the YouYube video.

Sandi-n-Larry's Day-O-Fun

    It said 'Rain or Shine' but it needn't have as the weather was perfect. A good sized crowd made the run along the Nashwaak River to Sandi and Larry's place for fun, food, and general kibitzing.  Even Kelvin got brave and ventured away from his home and bog.  It's a good thing he has a huge sense of humour as we certainly teased him about it.  I'm sure this will live on as a bit of club lore. 
    The challenges where varied with a bit of naval (that's 'NAVAL', not navel) flare thrown in.  One could canoe about the pond while being chased by a miniature pirate ship.  Oops, I forgot to tell you Larry, about the pointy thing on the front of your boat?...seems it had a run in with the canoe as it doesn't steer nearly as well as you'd want it to. Sorry.  Perhaps the FABAC Traveling Road Show & Pit Crew can visit and make repairs. 
    Our hosts also tried to sneak in some aerobic exercise amongst the challenges by hiding the short return trail from the river.  There was obviously a moving tree that could be swung silently into place once one had passed it on the way down.  This forced returnees to take the much longer path back to the house. I was stuck with one such group and forced to endure considerable moaning, whining and complaining interspersed with all the huffing and puffing.
    The day wouldn't have been complete without one of John's quizzes.  We had sent the Crumley's home early giving others a chance at winning.  Be warned that the quizzes are branching out beyond the automotive realm and into such areas as modern history ("Name India's first female Prime Minister?")  And yes, someone knew the answer.
    Oh yes,...we also have a club song.  Kelvin showed off his surprisingly good singing voice and composing skills with his original tune "Go little Mini, go! We applauded boisterously and extended congratulations on a job well done. Watch for a downloadable mp3 soon.
    Tickets had been issued by the hosts for challenges passed using an arbitrary but completely fair system.  Somehow Joe won the grand prize, a fact I was told to mention but don't remember why.
    Aaaaand of course there was food.  As promised, we all got to sample the award (First Prize!) winning maple syrup while digging into the goodies. 
    The evening ended with a soul stirring drive down the achingly beautiful Nashwaak river road, highway 8 back to town.
    We all thank Sandi and Larry for your hospitality. .....and sorry about your boat.
- Bob E.
(Pictures coming tomorrow)

Everything you need to know is in the photo.


Photos from Sandi and Larry's big event

This photo by Herb W.
For more photos from Stephen W, click on the grass.


KINGSTON TOUR SET FOR SUN. SEPT. 7

Sunday Sept 7 marks a return to FABAC’s popular Kingston Tour. The tour includes a spectacular route, an $18.00 pp three course roast turkey lunch in the village’s historic Carter House and a later visit to Tony Rickett’s “Dunhams Run” vineyard and shop. Organized again by John B, the tour will start at 11.45 am from the Fredericton Ramada Inn parking lot, proceed along Hwy 105 and 695 and into Kingston. (Our Saint John members can follow their own route provided they arrive at the Carter House for lunch no later than 1.20 pm.)  Return will be via the Grand Bay-Westfield ferry and either Hwy 102 or 7.

PLEASE NOTE THIS IS A RAIN OR SHINE EVENT. CUT-OFF DATE FOR COMMITTED ENTRIES IS NOON MON. SEPT 2. AS THE CARTER HOUSE IS BEING OPENED EXCLUSIVELY FOR TOUR PARTICIPANTS. PLEASE CALL JOHN DIRECTLY ON EITHER 449-0562 OR 470-7760 TO REGISTER YOUR ENTRY. PLEASE DO NOT REGISTER USING THE WEBSITE COMMENTS PAGE.

Bob E's report on the August FABC meeting

  Sam Snead's Pub proved so popular last month that we returned for this month's meeting.  Gary started the evening by inuring himself to his relatives by embarrassing his Aunt Leona who was visiting from Halifax.
   With that out if the way there was a quick report on the month's four runs and all where thanked for attending and organizing them.
   We congratulated John Bowles on his well deserved award from the Vintage Automobile Racing Association (VARAC) in Ontario.  He spoke quickly about his part in organizing the association many years ago.
    Larry issued the call to arms for this weekends 'Day-O-Fun' at their place near Stanley.  Additional information is already posted.
   John again took the floor (not for the last time that evening) and suggested a run to Kingston for a turkey supper.  We did this two years ago and everyone enjoyed it.  The drive is spectacular and the food excellent.
   Robert L issued a request to all FABACians to help him find the other (my god!.... there's two of them?!) 2CV in the city.  He's offered a substantial finders fee.
  John (again) took the floor and attempted to stump the gathering with one of his quizzes. This one was won by the lovely and (obviously) talented Anne Crumley.  Clearly the lady has been studying.
    After deciding that the next meeting will take place at Issac's Way in the downtown the meeting broke up and several went for ice cream.
- Bob E.

Stephen's recent trip

I just returned from Bar Harbor and the Seal Cove Antique Auto Museum.
Very few non-American cars, but still a good potential trip for FABAC.
The "B" was in the parking lot.
(For more photos, click on the car.)
- Stephen

August FABAC Meeting this Wednesday the 20th

Sam Snead's pub (again) at the Kingswood golf course August 20th
5:30pm or so.
Summer driving is quickly slipping by.

I know this is a British automobile club, BUT...

Bob and Rita have a fabulous little 2CV. Paul B passed on this neat article which features the mate to Bob and Rita's car. Go to this site and be sure to press play for the interesting little video.

Short Run/Party/Pot Luck Supper at Sandi and Larry’s

When:  Saturday August 23  We will meet at 2:30 at the Northside Kent’s/Canadian Tire parking lot.  (I may or not be there to lead the group)  It will be a short run, about 30 minutes, to our home in Stanley (135 Red Rock Road).  We will proceed along Killarney Road to Route 8.  We will turn off Route 8 at Taymouth onto English Settlement Road.  We will then proceed through English Settlement Road until we come to the hill going into the Village.  At the top of the hill, Church on the left, turn Right onto Red Rock Road.  )The other end of Red Rock intersects with English Settlement several kilometers earlier.  Don’t take that end of the road unless you want to test the off road capabilities of your LBC.)  We are 135 Red Rock Road, name on the mailbox.  If you run out of chipseal, you’ve gone too far.  When you arrive at our home, feel free to drive down and unload before coming back up to park.

What:
  Fun & Food.  We will have a couple of hours of competitive and noncompetitive activities, with prizes.   

What to Bring:
  Please bring a salad, vegetable, or desert.  We will supply hamburgers and chicken wings.  We will have a limited amount of wine/beer and soft drinks, so feel free to bring your own.  Also, we have a limited supply of chairs so if you have chairs that will fit in your LBC, you may wish to bring a couple.  Finally, if anyone has an RC boat or airplane that they can bring, please do so.

RSVP- As soon as possible, via this posting, or telephone- 367-2443, or email Heinlein@unb.ca and let us know you’re coming and what you’re bringing.  However, if you determine at the last minute that you can come, by all means do so, as there will be plenty of food.

Gary A's report on the Stanley Fair

The grey overcast weather that we all awoke to on Sunday morning while disappointing did little to deter or to dampen the spirits of the 14 cars that attended the Stanley Fair event. While one of the cars had to turn back due mechanical issues, the rest arrived at the fair grounds under improving skies. Within a short period we even had blue skies and warming temps perfect for walking about and partaking in the events of this wonderful community based fair.

 Our cars were parked at the entrance to the fair grounds so everyone attending were able to view our cars which produced a lot of interest. There was lots to see and do. The antique gas engine display, with many of these operating, drew a lot of interest from our members as did the barn display of farm animals, country display of cooked/baked goods, quilting display, horse haul, live entertainment  and yes even a sheep shearing demo by a very knowledgeable fellow who could answer all the questions related to shearing and there were many.

   Of course there was a small restaurant on site providing all the usual fair ground food which many of our members were seen experiencing.

   So, all in all, we had a very good day, the weather was perfect for the time we were there, I think everyone had a good time, I know I did.

   I wanted to thank all those that attended and those that attempted to attend .This is a great community event to support and we certainly did that with this wonderful showing of our cars. The organizers were very appreciative of our attendance and pass their thanks to each and everyone of us that participated.

 Perhaps, that those that took pix could send those along.

   Thanks,
    Gary

Bob E's report on the Stanley Fair

More photos from Bob by clicking on this one.
  The run to the Stanley fair saw our biggest turnout of the year (so far) with a full fifteen cars eventually making it to the fairgrounds.  The cars brought FABACians with them and with no schedule to keep we mostly milled around and learned the ins and outs of sheep shearing, horse pulling and hit-n-miss traction engines.  These vintage work engines proved to be popular with the gentlemen and we spent considerable time in tight groups discussing oil feed drip rates and compression ratios with the owners.  As the afternoon wore on it gave many of us time to gossip about folks who weren't there and (of course) discuss cars.  A point I heard from several different sources was how people are getting tired of putting up with what we've come to call "the charm of LBCs". We're becoming less and less tolerant of being cold while our feet fry, and/or getting wet (despite the convertible top) from top, bottom and sides.  Then there's the ride qualities which can vary from harsh to downright brutal.  And lets not forget how much fun it is to squeeeeze ones self in and out of a teeny tiny little seat while negotiating a narrow opening that's only scant millimeters from the road.  I can certainly sympathize with folks over many of these points.  Dwight got quite a chuckle as I levered myself out of my car groaning through gritted teeth; my arthritic hip having chosen that weekend to flare up.  While more civilized choices such as MGBs and TR6s are widely available, it seems that the range of recent Jaguars such as XK8 and XK-Rs are being considered by a few members.   A quick scan of Kijiji, car ads, and eBay turns up many of them in excellent condition at prices only slightly higher than traditional LBCs.  Fifteen to twenty grand will get one into a fast, comfortable, good handling, reliable, COMFORTABLE XK8.  Trading the finger busting joy of putting up the top on a TR2 for the one button experience can't be a hard decision to make.  Look for some new cars to appear soon in our midst and some to come up for sale. 
    Sandi and Larry revealed one of their little known talents while posing proudly with their first place winning jar of maple syrup.  They've promised us a taste next weekend at their barbecue/fun day.  Their win is preserved for posterity in the accompanying blurry picture (I told you two I didn't know what I was doing).
    Bob E.

Bell charges couple $2000 to rent a basic telephone

Stanley, New Brunswick, Canada – August 19, 2014 – A couple recently discovered that they had been charged more than $2000 over a period of 30 years for a basic, corded telephone.

Larry Heinlein and Sandra Byers had unknowingly been “renting” the phone from Bell’s Canadian holding Bell Aliant since activating their phone line in 1979.  At the time, all customers were required to rent a telephone from the company, but nobody notified customers once the policy changed. The $5.95/month rental charge is buried in a 4-page phone bill, and is listed as “Basic Telephone”. Similar phones retail for about $10.

It is unknown how many other customers are unknowingly being charged, but most will be long-time customers such as senior citizens.  Nevertheless, the company, which reported a profit of  $72 million last quarter, does not intend to change its billing practices. “Bell Aliant considers the current bill description satisfactory and we have no plans to change it or notify customers if they are renting sets,” they said in a recent e-mail. However, upon request, they will remove the recurring charge from a customer’s bill, and refund up to 12 months of rental fees – about $70.

Stanley Fair - Saturday Aug 16

Just a reminder of the Stanley Fair scheduled for Saturday Aug 16. You will remember that nearly a dozen cars committed to attending this event. That is the number the show organizers are looking forward to seeing. More is better. We are actually on their published scheduled of events from 11am to 2pm. This would be a terrific opportunity for us to promote our club and to support this wonderful community.

  In addition for those that would like to stay longer there is a Turkey supper at the event starting at 4pm with the proceeds going to the Upper Nashwaak Arena. This is going to be a fun event with musical entertainment, an antique engine and tractor display, bingo and even a sheep shearing demo.......now how often have you seen that!

 Here's the overall schedule :   http://www.stanleyfair.com/

  We'll be meeting at the Brookside Mall parking lot near the main entrance and departing for Stanley at 10am via the Royal Road.

  Let's get out, have fun, show our cars in supporting this event and the Town of Stanley.   
   Thanks,
      Gary

Sunday Breakfast Run

Nine spectacular vehicles participated in some aspect of this fine run planned and executed by Al T. Alphabetically: 1 Alfa Romeo 1600 Spider, 2 BMW Z3s, 1 Citroën 2CV, 1 Jaguar E-Type, 2 MGBs, 1 Morgan +4SS, 1 Triumph TR6 and 1 Bugatti Veyron.

Thanks to Al for suggesting/planning this successful activity.
And thanks to Stephen W. for these fine photos.
- David

A "Too nice a day to miss" Event for Sunday August 10th

Meet for Breakfast on Sunday morning (10 Aug) and perhaps a run after breakfast.
At 9:15 am at Porters diner on the Hanwell road.
This is very short notice therefore if you read this please feel free to contact other members.
I need a volunteer to lead the run if we decide on a route.
If you can attend, please respond in the comments section with the numbers attending.
- Al Thomas

A glamerous shot of Alex's TR6

I received an email from professional photographer Craig Andrews of Nackawic with a picture from a recent photo shoot. Although Alex's beautiful TR6 is in the photo, another beauty tends to capture one's attention. Because of this, I make this photo available to you with the advice that "This image may not be suitable for all viewers." Find it here.

A couple of cars in London



Yes, we're in London. Home this evening.
- David