Duane Hicks
A tradition now in its 10th year, the “Fly-in, Drive-in BBQ” will take place Saturday, Sept. 12 at the Fort Frances Airport.
The event, which has become a major fundraiser for the 908 Rainy Lake Air Cadet Squadron, once again is expected to feature pilots from this area, Thunder Bay, and Manitoba flying in for the day, as well as antique cars, motorcycles, and radio-controlled planes for people to see.
Bruce Caldwell, who has organized the event since its inception, said there’s been e-mails and posters sent to airports all over, and hopefully those will draw pilots here.
“If it’s a good day, weather-wise, we’ll have airplanes. But it all depends on the weather—that’s the way it is,” he noted.
Caldwell did confirm that a World War II-era Harvard Trainer from Winnipeg is coming to the event, as well as the OPP’s Pilatus PC 12/45 fixed-wing aircraft from Thunder Bay—although the latter will depend on whether it gets called out for police duty.
As in past years, Caldwell said everyone is welcome to bring their cars, motorcycles, and radio-controlled airplanes to the fly-in barbecue (for those who need encouragement to show off their models, a People’s Choice plaque will be awarded for one entry in each of those categories).
He added he’s expecting more motorcycles than the past few years as for once the “Fly-in, Drive-in BBQ” won’t conflict with the local Alzheimer Society’s “Ride for Memories” fundraiser, which is taking place tomorrow (Aug. 29).
The event also will feature a pancake breakfast, which will run from 8-11 a.m., followed by the barbecue from 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
There will be a small fee for the food, with proceeds going to the 908 Rainy Lake Air Cadet Squadron (visiting pilots will eat for free).
“It’s all to help the local air cadet squadron. It’s their major
fundraiser for the year,” noted Caldwell. “Their parents put up the food. They enjoy it.
“It’s a good deal for me because I don’t have to worry about food, they take care of it,” he added.
“They help out a lot, too.”
In addition to supporting the local air cadets, the “Fly-in, Drive-in BBQ” is designed to showcase the local airport by having private pilots fly in here for the day.
Some of the pilots stay here for the weekend—spending money at local restaurants, stores, and motels.
For more info, call Caldwell at 274-3070.
