NOTE: Each new Member News item is “pushed” down the list.

11/10/22 ~ Santa Fly-In Volunteers Needed

Hello All,

I took on the challenge to restart this event with a co-sponsorship of other groups.
The goal being not to add any more stress to our volunteers that help so much throughout the year.
Here is an update on this years Santa Fly- In on Dec 4 form 11 – 3
 
We ask for donations for the national guard, food or donating at 11.  Cookies needed. If possible please repack 2 two to a small plastic bag.
 
1) Hours will be 11:00-3:00
2) Santa and Mrs. Clause will arrive by Castle Aviation at 11:30  dressed
3) We will escort him to a chair so he can start seeing children
3) Visitors will receive a pass at check-in. Groups will be called to line up in a Que to see Santa.
No Cost but we accept donations, food, and paper products for Ohio National Guard.
 
In just four weeks, on Sunday, December 4 our annual MAPS Santa Fly-In will be here!  
This year we have teamed up several groups including: 
Akron Canton Airport (people and money)
Ohio Army National Guard (people)
Daughters of the American Revolution (people and singers)
Castle Aviation  (airplane for Santa)
Civil Air Patrol #278 (Parking)
The Print Shop (Flyers)
Canton Folk Group (Music)
Each of these groups are in some way helping wit this years event.
 
If you would like to be an additional volunteer to help with any additional task ,please feel free to let me know. I can definitely use extra help.
 
Here is what I need for the event:Cookies!  We are requesting that you put them in bags prior to delivery in the lunchroom.  3 small cookies per bag or 2 large cookies per bag!  Your decision!

I will need these tables or areas “elfed”-

Story Tellers
Line minders for those waiting to see Santa
Coloring
Face Painting
Cookies and Punch
Greeting Table in Lobby
If you have any other suggestions, please let me know!
There are several areas you can sit, if standing is hard for you.  Just let me know!I would appreciate if you can be there by 10:45 am., prior to opening.  If you cannot arrive at that time, but would still like to help, let me know what time you can arrive.  Santa will arrive from upstairs at 11:30 AM. Santa’s hours are 12-3pm. 

Wear something festive and fun, including elf hats, antlers, Santa hats, etc! I have only a few available.

Please respond by email with “Santa Fly-In” in the subject area ASAP if you are able to volunteer, what time you will arrive and if you will be bringing cookies!  If you cannot volunteer but you can provide cookies, please let me know that too!  Email me with any questions.  

Thank you to all who are willing to help bring smiles to both young & old during this special event!

Kent’s email is: mapsevents@mapsairmuseum.org
 
Thank You, Kent Kleinkcecht
 

 

11/6/22 ~ Members meeting postponed 1  week

The monthly Members meeting is postponed one week due to the Veterans Day event on the 12th. The new date for the meeting is 11/19/22, same time.

6/28/22 ~ Closed for Private Event

MAPS Air Museum will be closed for a Private Event on Tuesday, July 26, 2022. Thank you for your understanding.

5/19/22 ~ Special Meeting Announcement

MAPS Air Museum will be having a Special Membership Meeting on Saturday, May 21st, 2022. This will be at 11 AM in the library.

4/23/22 ~ Closure for Private Event

MAPS will be closed on Saturday, April 23rd for a private event.  MAPS will be open the next day, Sunday, April 24th, as normal, and ready for the pancake breakfast that day.

12/7/21 ~ Holiday Non-perishable Drive

MAPS Air Museum Gift Shop is collecting items for the Ohio National Guard Units stationed at the Akron Canton Airport. 
 
Please drop off non-perishable items such as canned goods, paper products, gift cards and cash donations (that will be converted to gift cards). 
 
100 % of all donations will be forwarded to the Ohio National Guard and Reserve Units.
Thank you for your support.

2021 Christmas Party and other news

2021 MAPS Christmas Party

Our annual MAPS Volunteer Christmas Party will be held on Saturday, December 4th, at 6 PM in the hangar.  The cost is $15.00 per person and due at the time of sign-up to Bob Schwartz, Kim or Reed.  The deadline for signing up is Saturday, November 28th.  Mr. Mike’s will be catering our dinner.

The party will be held in our new 2nd floor banquet hall.  The hall is large and social distancing will be easily maintained.

We are supporting the CAK Ohio National Guard Food Bank.  Bring donations to the Christmas Party of non-perishable foods, toiletries or monetary donation to MAPS throughout the month(s) of November and December. Help make a merrier holiday for our military families!

REMINDERS:  There are still tables available for the Veterans program on November 13th. This year’s event is very special.  A sign up sheet and information forms are attached to this email.

ALSO the last LaFlavour of the year will be held on Friday November 19th with dinner at 5:30 and dancing at 7PM. check the attached info sheet.

There will be two Options to attend this event.
 
OPTION 1: Dinner and Dance $20.00 plus $1.72 fee for Tickets from Eventbrite 
Click the link below to purchase tickets. Meals will be served beginning 5:30pm
 
OPTION 2: Dance Only $10 Tickets available at the door beginning at 6:30pm
 
We are sorry but we cannot serve alcohol. This because of the State Liquor License regulations allows only one event within a 30 day window. We will be serving wine and beer at our Veteran’s Celebration the previous weekend so we cannot serve liquor at this event

Members attend monthly meetings virtually via Zoom?

10/21/20 – Members, are you not going to be able to attend the next meeting due to illness or out of town? Attend the next members meetings virtually via Zoom!  You will need to keep Bob Schwartz (schwartz.robert@mapsairmuseum.org) up to date on your current email and to ask to be added to the Zoom/Meeting listing.

Members June Meeting & Access update

5/31/20 – Message from our Executive Director, Kim Kovesci regarding June 13 Membership Meeting

At this time, museums have not received authorization from Governor Dewine to open to the general public.  

During the past several months, I have been contacted by volunteers as to when they can return.  Those requests were followed up by an email, explaining the small core group that was permitted to work through this pandemic.  Safety was and will remain our main focus at MAPS.

We are now preparing for your return, as volunteers, to the museum. With that being said, a team has been created to implement guidelines.

On Saturday, June 13 at 11:00 am we will have our Membership Meeting. 

  • If you don’t feel comfortable around other people, please do not come.

  • If you have been sick within the 14 days as of June 13, or been exposed to someone who has, please do not come.  

  • Please do not arrive any earlier than 10:30 am.

  • Requirements to attend the membership meeting; 

    • We require you to wear a mask inside the hangar

    • We will take your temperature before entering the hangar

    • You will be asked to answer several questions

    • Please maintain 6 ft social distancing at all times

  • Following check-in, everyone will be required to go directly to the main hangar where chairs supporting social distancing requirements will be set up. Please do not walk around the building but go directly to the chairs. (after the meeting, you will be able to walk around)

  • Do not enter the Restoration Building.  It will only be open to the core group of volunteers.

In addition to our updates at the membership meeting, nominations for Directors will also be accepted.  Normally the nomination process is in March and April followed by the election in June.  Due to our shutdown, the Directors voted to start the process at the next membership meeting per Section 4.05 of the Code of Regulations. There are 3 positions up for election this year. Nominations will be accepted at the June and July meeting with the election held in August.  The nominee must be a member in good standing for at least one (1) year.  

Directly after the Monthly Meeting, will be a training session for members who are interested in returning as a volunteer at MAPS.  Attendance to this meeting is mandatory, regardless of your volunteer role at MAPS.

Effective Wednesday, June 17 at 9:00 am, we will begin our new check-in procedures for those volunteers who have attended a training session.  Anyone who has not attended the Volunteer Training Program will not be allowed to volunteer until they have completed a training session. 

There will be an additional training June 17 at 10:00 am.  

** (Additional trainings will be scheduled as needed.  The dates and times of these sessions will be announced.)

Thank you for your patience. Remember, our main concern is the safety of our volunteers.  

We are looking forward to seeing you back at MAPS!

Kim Kovesci, Executive Director

 

Replacement Funeral Flags for MAPS members

2/5/20 – The Curator’s Department has a limited number of United States funeral flags available to MAPS members for free. The intent is to replace a lost or missing flag of a family member or friend. They are not being made available for the purposes of resale and there is a limit of one flag per member. These are the 9½’ x 5’ burial or casket flags. There are both 48 star and 50 star flags available. The 48 star would cover the time period of 1912 to 1960 for veterans of WW1, WW2, and Korea. The 50 star came in to use in 1960 and is our current flag. It would cover veterans of the Vietnam War on up to present day. Flags will be available until March 1st on a first come, first served basis. If you would like one see Scott Denniss in the Curator’s Department.

Scott Denniss, MAPS Curator’s Department

Tour Guide Training Dates

1/4/20 – Now that the New Year has come, I have started planning for the tour guide training sessions, particularly for those tour guides that will be helping with the high school groups this Spring.  The  dates are:

Feb 1
Feb 8
Feb 15
Feb 29
Mar 7
 
These are all Saturdays.  Training would be conducted in the training room (old PLCC classroom) at 1:00 PM.  February 22nd is not scheduled as it is Cub Scout/Girl Scout day.
 
As all the sessions will be the same, you only need to attend one.  You are not required to sign up to attend – just show up!
 
If you are not currently a Tour Guide, but would like to learn more about the program, this would be an ideal introduction.  If you are interested in receiving updates on the tour calendar, send me your name and e-mail address and I will start sending you regular updates.
From: Reed J. Kimball

Member Obituary

12/14/19 – Laurie J. Maser: January 5, 1959 – November 25, 2019

MAPS Christmas Party & Santa Fly-In News

11/29/19 – This Sunday December 1st is the Santa Fly In starting at 12 Noon Cookies needed. If possible please prepack 2 two to a small plastic bag.

Deadline for signing up for the MAPS Christmas Party is Sunday the 1st.  Cost is $15.00 per person, see Kim, Reed or Bob Schwartz  Bring a favorite dessert to share with the membership.  Don’t forget to bring your items for the food pantry. Canned goods and non perishable items.

Did YOU have a makeshift Christmas tree while deployed?

11/21/19 – From Debbie Bussinger: Thet mapshistoryprogram@mapsairmuseum.org is looking for pictures of your makeshift christmas trees while you were deployed in  military service?
I would like to put them up for Santa Fly In and for the Christmas Party.

MAPS Museum 2019 Holiday Season Closed Schedule

11/20/2019 ~ 

Wednesday, November 27th – we will be open unless there are no visitors, play it by ear
Thursday, November 28th
Monday, December 23 through Wednesday, December 25th 
Monday, December 30th through Wednesday, January 1st 

2019 MAPS Member Christmas Party

11/20/2019 ~ Our annual MAPS Volunteer Christmas Party will be held on Saturday, December 7th, at 6 PM in the hangar.  The cost is $15.00 per person and due at the time of sign-up to Bob Schwartz, Kim or Reed.  The deadline for signing up is Saturday, December 1st Mr. Mike’s will be catering our dinner.

Remember, we are supporting the CAK Ohio National Guard Food Bank.  Bring donations to the Christmas Party of non-perishable food, toiletries or a monetary donation to MAPS throughout November and December. Help make a merrier holiday for our military families!

Santa Fly-in volunteers needed!

11/18/19 – Happy Holidays to All of You, From Pam McFarland

In just two weeks, on Sunday, December 1 our annual MAPS Santa Fly-In will be here!   As Head Elf of this event, I’m requesting volunteers to help with the lines of excited children waiting for the big guy to whip out that long list of wishes!  

Here is what I need for the event:

Cookies!  We are requesting that you put them in bags prior to delivery in the lunchroom.  3 small cookies per bag or 2 large cookies per bag!  Your decision!

I will need these tables or areas “elfed”-
Coloring
Face Painting
Cookies and Punch
Greeting Table in Lobby
If you have any other suggestions, please let me know!
There are several areas you can sit, if standing is hard for you.  Just let me know!

I would appreciate if you can be there by 11:00 am., prior to opening.  If you cannot arrive at that time, but would still like to help, let me know what time you can arrive.  Santa will arrive from upstairs at 12 noon. Santa’s hours are 12-3pm. 

Wear something festive and fun, including elf hats, antlers, Santa hats, etc! I have only a few available.

Please respond by email with “Santa Fly-In” in the subject area ASAP if you are able to volunteer, what time you will arrive and if you will be bringing cookies!  If you cannot volunteer but you can provide cookies, please let me know that too!  Email me with any questions.  You can stop by Val’s office with any concerns or confirmations as well!

Thank you to all who are willing to help bring smiles
to both young & old during this special event!

Your Head Elf,

Pammi

Richard “Dick” With Obituary

8/23/19 – It is with great sadness and a heavy heart that I report the passing of MAPS member Richard “Dick” With. Dick was a very active MAPS member until about 4 years ago.  Dick was a tour guide, board member and also a crew member restoring the Goodyear GZ-22 blimp gondola that sits in our hanger. Dick also was instrumental in getting the the Collings Foundation to visit MAPS with their WWII bombers. 

Dick’s favorite restaurant Palumbo’s  will be catering lunch after service’s in our hanger at 12:30

Richard “Dick” E. With, age 83 of Canton, passed away Wednesday, August 21, 2019 at Aultman Compassionate Care Center.
He was born November 16, 1935, in Newark, OH, the son of the late Thorlf “Pete” and Helen (Hanna) With.
He was a veteran serving in the Army.
Richard was a retired pilot.  Working with Midwestern Industries and was a Safety Counselor for 30 years, a FFA flight examiner from 1975 to 1985 specializing in private and commercial instrument and multi-engineering.
  
He was a member of Christ Presbyterian Church, Aircraft Owner & Pilot Association, East Central Ohio Pilot Association, where he was chosen Pilot of the Year in 1988, Maps Air Museum Charter Member #95, Buckeye Winnies Winebago Motor Home Club, Sons of Norway #5-662.
Richard is survived by his companion for 20 years, Linda Lippert; sister, Nancy Merrill; and nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Necia With; daughter, Traci With; son, Richard With; sister, Helen Huber; brothers-in-law, Ferdinand “Mike” Huber and George Merrill.
Funeral service will be held on Saturday, August 24, 2019 at Heitger Funeral Home – Jackson Chapel, 5850 Wales Ave NW at 11:00 am.
Calling hours will be held two hours prior to the service from 9:00 am to 11:00 am.
Burial to follow the service at Sunset Hills Burial Park in Canton.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Maps Air Museum, 2260 International Parkway North Canton, OH 44720.
Condolences to the family may be made at www.heitger.com
Heitger Funeral Home and Crematory 330-830-0148

 

MAPS early closing this Sunday

7/26/19 – MAPS Air Museum will be closing early Sunday, July 28th.  The museum will close at 3 PM to accommodate the event, Modern Warriors Live.

Gloria Armitage Obituary

7/25/19 – Gloria became a MAPS member in July of 1999 and is the wife Ron Armitage who was a very active tour guide.  Our condolences go out to Ron and his family. 

Gloria Marie Armitage, age 95, of Massillon made her earthly departure Monday July 22, 2019 at The Inn at University Village. Born January 8, 1924 in Cleveland, Ohio she was a graduate of Cleveland State University and worked many years as office manager at Central Presbyterian Church.

Gloria was preceded in death by her parents, George and Carmella (Casoli) Codeluppi; two brothers and one sister.

Surviving are her husband, Ronald E. Armitage; daughter, Robin Gloria Armitage; her beloved Yorkie, Lovey; and a niece Norma Aultman.

Funeral services will be held 11 a.m. Friday July 26 at Atkinson Feucht Hare Funeral Home in Massillon at  with Pastor Larry Lalama officiating. Friends may visit one hour prior to the service from 10-11 a.m. at the funeral home. Private burial will be in Sunset Hills Burial Park. Memorials are suggested to Stark County Humane Society.

Members only sale this Saturday! 

5/23/19 – We are having another, members-only sale of deaccessioned items this Saturday. They can come upstairs to the storage area between 10 am and 2 pm and see what’s available. 

 
These are all items that we have duplicates of, don’t fit the mission of the museum or are not displayable. We are not getting rid of unique, special, or rare items nor items on loan to the museum. All proceeds benefit the museum and go towards maintenance, enhancement, and acquisition of new displays. All items are sold for donations to the Museum.
 
The bulk of the remaining items will be donated to a local theater group. So Saturday is the last chance.

June MAPS Meeting also altered

5/11/19 -PLEASE also note that the June membership will held on June 15th, the 3rd Thursday in June as it has been scheduled for the last  several years due to  the Don Sitts Car Show on the second Saturday of the month June 8th.

MAPS Members meeting

5/10/19 – The Monthly MAPS members meeting for tomorrow has been postponed for 1 week, until Saturday,  May 18th at the normal time.  Sorry about the short notice.

Member Obituary

5/10/19 – Tom Fisher Obituary:  June 10, 1927 – May 7, 2019

New Online Volunteer Time Card

4/11/19 – Here is the link to the new volunteer time cards for online purposes.

Member Obituary

3/25/19 – Don Wohlin Obituary: February 5, 1927 – March 21, 2019

Members only Auction

3/12/19 –  From: Scott Denniss

We are having a sale of de-accessed items from the museum next Saturday the 16th. It will be upstairs in the storage area from 10am until 2pm. This is a members only event. We are asking for donations for the items.

Random photos at MAPS

2/24/19 – From Richard Willaman: 

A-26 Restoration Update

2/17/19 – From A-26 crew chief, Ken Ramsay: 

The fuselage stars are finished.  Added the red stripe (2 photos).  Then I realized that the red stripe had not been added to the wing stars.  Saturday project.
 
I spent some time dusting the gunner’s compartment.  It was vacuumed some time ago, but still needed the nooks and crannies dusted.  Most of the compartments need dusting which will be accomplished over the next few weeks.
 
Mark and Bruce masked the USAF on the top of the right wing (photo).  Not an easy task.  Masking the USAF on the underside of the left wing will be a real challenge.
 
Had a number of visitors that were really interested in our A-26 and its history.

MAPS 2019 Cash Raffle

2/15/19 – MAPS Members, it is time for our annual MAPS Cash Raffle! Last year, over $14,000 was raised, and in part, went to the continued 2nd floor construction and the restoration of the F-16, OV-1, FG-1, as well as other projects/planes.

By now you should have received in the mail your 10 raffle tickets.  We request that you sell each of these for $5 to your friends, family and acquaintances.  More tickets are available at MAPS!

Win as much as $1000!

If you do not want to participate, just follow the instructions that came with the raffle tickets and please return the unsold tickets to Bob Schwartz so that the raffle can go on without a hitch.  

We greatly appreciate your participation!

Restoration Updates

2/10/19 – Here is an update from Ken Ramsay on activities in the Restoration Building:

More painting. Bruce and I painted 4 coats of yellow on the propeller blade tips (photo).  The top blade tip on each engine was a little dicey but no injuries other than yellow drips on a few things.  Ray gave me the paint he used on the B-26 propellers and I will use on the A-26 props.

 
In between painting the yellow coats, I painted the blue paint on the fuselage stars (photo).  The original blue paint was Krylon spray but I didn’t like the finish so I went and bought some water base enamel which could be rolled on giving a much better finish.  It looks good even up close.  The white needs a little touch-up and the red stripes added.
 
Also between yellow coats, Bruce did some more black touch-up and some yellow touch-up.
 
In other news.
 
The center vertical stabilizer has been installed (photo).
 
The F-102 main gear door is coming along (photo).

Restoration Update

2/6/19 – From Ken Ramsay: 

On Wednesday Mark, Bruce and I spent most of the day doing touch-up painting.  Mark was on top (black), Bruce was underneath (black) and I touched up the yellow.  Ran out of black paint.

Today, Saturday, more black painting by Mark.  He applied the final coat on the top of the left wing and some other areas.
 
I applied masking tope to the stars and applied the first coat of blue (photo).  Will take a couple of coats to give a uniform color due to the various colors underneath (white, old blue, black).
 
I found an aircraft seat belt and installed it on the aft gunner’s seat (photo).
 
I also painted the right main gear.  The left gear was painted in the restoration building some time ago.
 
Tyke took some measurements of the flap drive shaft positions in anticipation of making them operable.  We need a double shafted motor or two motors back to back.
 
Snoopy is coming along (photo), the OV-1 has been primed (photo) and the large panel is being installed on the F-86A.

Weather Closing mid-week

1/28/19 – MAPS Air Museum will be CLOSED due to frigid temperatures for both volunteers and visitors from Tuesday, January 29th through Thursday, January 31st.

Thomas J. Koteff

1/28/19 – Obituary – Thomas J. Koteff: April 19, 1950 – January 21, 2019

George Richard Pashley

1/23/19 – Obituary – George Richard Pashley: June 9, 1928 – January 16, 2019

Weather Closing this weekend

1/18/19 – MAPS Air Museum will be CLOSED for both volunteers and visitors this Saturday, January 19th and Sunday, January 20th for the expected weather. Thank you for your understanding. 

2 Videos added to the History Page archives

1/7/19 – 2 videos were added on the History Page:

CALLING ALL AVIATION EXPLORERS!

 1/7/19 – Pass this on to your kids and grand kids or anyone you think might be interested!

Are you interested in Aviation?  Ever thought about joining the Explorers? Now you can do both!

MAPS Air Museum is sponsoring a new Explorer Aviation Post.  We are seeking young men and women, ages 14 to 20 years old, who want to help build an Explorer Aviation post from the ground up.  Aviation Explorers will learn about what it takes to be a pilot, aircraft mechanic, air traffic controller and other aviation careers.  Explorers will learn through a combination of classroom training, facility visits, guest speakers, and hands-on learning. Explorers will attend program activities approximately once per month.

Some potential activities include:

Hands-on training on actual planes to learn about pre-flight and post-flight procedures

  • Use of Flight simulators to learn about Airport operations, Basic Instrument Maneuvers
  • Explore Aviation careers through visits to Commercial Airports, Air traffic control facilities, Military base tours, Aviation Maintenance school visits.
  • Want more information? There will be an Open House informational meeting at MAPS on Saturday, January 26th from 10am – 11:30am

Have questions or plan to attend?

Please contact Jim Felner at felner.james@mapsairmuseum.org.

We look forward to meeting you in January!

Jim Felner, MAPS Scouting Coordinator, 330.800.8063

Obituary – William Humphreys

12/23/2019 – It is with great sorrow that we announce the passing of William “Bill” Humphreys. Bill joined MAPS in August of 2010 and was active as a tour guide.

image.png

February 1, 1943 – December 19, 2018
Born in Springfield, Ohio
Resided in Massillon, Ohio

William E. Humphreys, age 75 of Massillon, passed away on Wednesday, December 19, 2018 at his home. He was born in Springfield, Ohio on February 1, 1943.
Bill served his country with the U.S. Air Force during the Vietnam War. He went on to work at the Hoover Company, retiring on June 30, 2001.
He was a member of First Baptist Church in Massillon, helping in many areas.
He was active with the MAPS museum, serving as a tour guide.
He is survived by his wife Betty Anne (Strohm) Humphreys, whom he married on August 30, 1980, his daughter and son-in-law, Traci and Michael Tanksley, his grandson Dawson Tanksley, his sister and brother-in-law, Edith and Richard Speegle and David Bagley, who he met through the Big Brothers/Big Sisters program and treated like a son.
A memorial service will take place on Saturday, December 29th at 11:00 a.m. at First Baptist Church with Dr. Roger Alber officiating. The family will receive friends one hour before the service. Military honors will follow the service at the church.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to First Baptist Church, 20-6th Street S.E., Massillon, OH 44646

Santa Fly-in ~ HELP still needed!

12/6/18 – In addition to the limitation on kids for the event mention in an earlier Member notification, HELP is still needed for this Sunday, Dec. 9 is our annual MAPS Santa FlyIn!   As a reminder,  I’m requesting volunteers to help with the lines of excited children waiting for the big guy to whip out that long list of wishes

We are still looking for volunteers for this big event as it appears we are going to have a large crowd this year.
 
Cookies!  Lots and lots of cookies!  MaryAnn has requested that you put them in bags prior to delivery in the lunchroom.  3 small cookies per bag or 2 large cookies per bag!  Your decision!
 
These areas still need “elfed”-
  • Coloring
  • Face Painting- filled at this time
  • MAPS “Theatre”- if we can locate a small tv (watch short flicks like Rudolph, Frosty, etc)
  • Story Time- Reading Christmas stories to kids
  • Cookies and Punch – filled at this time
  • Greeting Table in Lobby
  • If you have any other suggestions, please let me know!
We would appreciate if you can be there by 11:00 am., prior to opening.  If you cannot arrive at that time, but would still like to help, let me know what time you can arrive.  Santa will arrive at 1, but with over 35,000 hits on Facebook, we want to be prepared!
 
Wear something festive and fun, including elf hats, antlers, Santa hats, etc! I have only a few available.
 
Please respond by email with “Santa Fly-In” in the subject area to Pam McFarland (head elf) ASAP if you are able to volunteer, what time you will arrive and if you will be bringing cookies!  If you cannot volunteer but you can provide cookies, please let us know that too!  Email Pam with any questions.  You can stop by Val’s office with any concerns or confirmations as well!
 
Thank you to all who are willing to help bring smiles 
to both young & old during this special event!

A-26 Invader primary work complete

12/6/18 – Primary work on the Douglas A-26 Invader is complete. Come see it at MAPS!  Here is a quick Post regarding it on the website.

Military Component Collection Page added to the website

12/6/18 – The MAPS Air Museum website now has a Military Component Collection page.  This page highlights the pieces/parts of aircraft on display and also the small items carried by soldiers.  This page is linked below the Exhibit section, though you can go directly here:  Military Component Collection

Arsenal Collection Page added to the website

12/6/18 – The MAPS website has added a page underneath the Exhibit menu to highlight the Arsenal Collection that we have at MAPS.  Here is a quick link to take a peek.

Santa Fly-in 2018 Update!

12/6/18 – PLEASE NOTE!!!

We are glad so many of you are interested in attending this event however, in order to make sure everyone has a good time, especially the kids, we find that we will have to limit attendance to 300 children.
 
We are sorry if this causes any issues for anyone but, our guests enjoying themselves while here at the Museum is a major concern for us.  Thank you for your understanding!

Louise Timken Library & Archives added an online database

11/30/18 – The Louise Timken Library & Archives has added an online database for you to view anywhere on what is available to you as a member of MAPS.  They are still entering the information into the database through Library World, but should be finished in the next week or two.  You can access the online database through the drop-down menu Education to the Library page which has the permanent link.  Here is a quick link for you.

Military Vehicles Collection page added to website

11/30/18 – The MAPS website has added a page, underneath the Exhibit menu, to highlight the Military Vehicles Collection that we have at MAPS.  Here is a quick link to take a peek.

MAPS on the YouTube blog, TheUnknownRoad

11/15/18 – Here is a blog post, via YouTube, on TheUnknownRoad.  They originate from Indiana and it is always good to hear what the other side has to say about the MAPS Air Museum.

MAPS on TheUnknownRoad

Cookies needed for Santa Fly-in

11/11/18 – Organizers for the Santa Fly-in on Sunday, December 9th from 1-3 PM are seeking cookie donations for the kids.  This year, they are asking donations to be done by putting 3 cookies each in baggies/ziplocks to help ensure all the kids get some and passed out in a more efficient way.

Louise Timken Aviation Library opening longer

11/11/18 – The goal of MAPS members in the Louise Timken Aviation Library is to be open during the same hours as the MAPS Air Museum starting in the new year.  They are seeking volunteers to staff the library with at least 1 person during open hours.  Inquire with Barb Johnston if you would like to help or have any questions.

MAPS Legacy Award ceremony being combined

11/11/18 – FYI: The MAPS Legacy Award ceremony is being incorporated into the yearly Member Christmas dinner.

Inexpensive weekly lunch available for MAPS Members

11/11/18 – Members, you all have an inexpensive lunch available to you at the MAPS lunchroom, where you can have a pleasant and relaxed conversation with other members.  Volunteers donate time and food for you!  From approximately 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM every Saturday, there will be hot-dogs, assorted chips/snacks, a different dessert and a hot soup (cold item during summer) for your enjoyment.  Donations are encouraged.  A donation of $1 per item is recommended to help this inexpensive offering continue into the future. Surplus monies are given to the MAPS general fund.

Save ACME receipts

11/11/18 – Save and turn in your ACME receipts so that MAPS can get a rebate.  This is a simple and “no cost” way to help MAPS raise more money.

Tour Guide Training Soon

11/11/18 – With multiple high-school tours coming up soon, Reed Kimball will be having 7 training sessions available for your choosing.  All of them are Saturday from 1-3 PM.  Dates are: 12/8, 12/15, 12/22, 1/5, 1/12, 1/19 and 1/26.  MAPS is always in need of more tour guides.  Being educated on MAPS information is key on ensuring our visitors get the most out of our aviation history.  Let Reed know ASAP if you can attend one of the dates.

2018 MAPS Christmas Party Information

11/11/18 – “Ugly Sweater” Christmas Dinner for MAPS members – Our annual MAPS Volunteer Christmas Party will be held on Saturday, December 8th, at 6 PM in the hangar.  The cost is $15.00 per person and due at the time of sign-up to either Kim or Reed.  The deadline for signing up is Saturday, December 1st.  Mr. Mike’s will be catering our dinner!

Mrs. Claus and Elf will be back entertaining our guests! We would like our volunteers to share a favorite Christmas picture or two for a little surprise.The picture could be of family, friends, or military…just make sure you are in it!  Send the pictures (jpg) via email to kinney.valerie@mapsairmuseum.orgby December 1st.

Remember, we are supporting the CAK Ohio National Guard Food Bank.  Bring donations to the Christmas Party of non-perishable foods, toiletries or monetary donation to MAPS throughout the month(s) of (November) and December. Help make a merrier holiday for our military families!

Dessert/cookies donations for the event are requested.  Any left over usable desserts/cookies will be utilized the next day at the Santa Fly-in.

This Saturday’s Akron Symphony concert link updated

If you were trying to buy tickets to this Saturday’s Akron Symphony Youth Concert and were not able to due to a bad link, that has been corrected.  The youth symphony’s website had started using a new website and we just now heard about it.   Sorry for the confusion, if any.  Link to the concert is ready to sell you tickets!

Members thoughts on the updated MAPS Website

MAPS’ (relatively new) webmaster, Ronald Schultz, is seeking input from the membership on your thoughts on the current website (as of today, 10/30/18).  The website has been updated or renovated throughout.  Is it more user-friendly?  Come across any broken links, spelling errors or have updated facts (please reference where you can).  Have an idea that can be added to the website?  Email Ron at schultz.ronald@mapsairmuseum.org.  Thank you!

MAPS Member News

Theodore “Ted” Vozenilek passed away

Theodore “Ted” Vozenilek, age 84 of Massillon, passed away Monday, October 1, 2018 at Mercy Medical Center.
He was born April 22, 1934, in Uniontown, PA the son of the late Emil and Judith (Jasenka) Vozenilek.
Ted was an Army Reservist.
Ted was a 1959 graduate of The Ohio State University and Capital University.  He was a retired aeronautical engineer of 42 years working at Westinghouse Research, Babcock and Wilcox, and Wright Tool and Forge Co.
He was a member of Church of the Lakes United Methodist Church, a member of the Hall of Fame Lunch Group, and a volunteer at Military Aviation Preservation Society (MAPS) for over 20 years.
Ted is survived by his wife of 61 years, Phyllis (Lelux) Vozenilek; children, Michael (Theresa) Vozenilek and Terri (Robert) Hall; four grandchildren, Courtney and Kyle Vozenilek, Kamryn and Heather Hall; three great-grandchildren, McKayla, Grace, and Hunter.
He was preceded in death by his brother, Emil Vozenilek.
Calling hours will be held on Monday, October 8, 2018 at Heitger Funeral Home Jackson Chapel, 5850 Wales Ave NW, from 6pm to 8pm.
A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, October 9, 2018 at 11am, calling hours an hour prior to the service at Church of the Lakes United Methodist Church with Rev. Bryan George officiating.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to MAPS, 2260 International Parkway North Canton, OH 44720 or Church of the Lakes, 1753, 5944 Fulton Dr NW, Canton, OH 44718.
Condolences to the family may be made at www.heitger.com
Heitger Funeral Home and Crematory 330-830-0148

James Mosley passed away

Jim Mosley passed away on September 5, 2018 at the age of 88. Jim was a long time member of MAPS, he served as a director during a very difficult time and is considered one of the key leaders who saved our organization. Click HERE to read his obituary.

Jun-Aug 2018 Briefing Published

Click HERE to go to the Briefing.

Len Palmer passed away

Len Palmer passed away on May 8, 2018 at the age of 68. Len was a recent addition to the MAPS Board of Directors and was very active in the BT-13 renovation project. [More Information]

Results of the 2018 MAPS Raffle

Here are the results of the 2018 Raffle: $1,000 Pat Ryan $500 Al Bachman $250 Dale Ryba $125 Gary Shorter $75 Don Neidert $50 Larry Perkins We want to thank everyone who supported this year’s Raffle by either buying or selling tickets. This program us pay the utilities during the coldest part of the year.

Results of Akron Beacon Journal, “Beacon’s Best 2017”

MAPS Air Museum was the winner in the Beacon’s Best for the Category of Museum. MAPS received a 3rd place Best things to do under $10, 3rd place for Kids/Family Outing. We received top ten for three other categories, Area Attraction/non-sport, Party Center/Event Hall and Wedding Venue. Congratulations to the membership for great results.

Ralph Lynn passed away

Ralph Lynn passed away at the age of 98 on March 16. Ralph was very active past his 95th birthday until declining health caused him to move to Laurens, South Carolina to live with his daughter. [More Information]

A special April Briefing has been published to honor Ralph. [More Information]

Sandy Aegerter passed away

Sandy Aegerter passed away at the age of 75 on August 14, 2017. Sandy is the wife of Henry Aegerter a very important member of our volunteers in the restoration department. [More Information]

Jim Baker passed away

Jim Baker passed at age 81 on October 31, 2016. He was a good friend and a great volunteer at MAPS. [More Information]

Milan Savan passed away

Milan Savan 12-16-2016: Milan Joined MAPS in June 2008 and volunteered as a tour guide until April 2015.  Milan volunteered on Tuesdays and also for special events.  Milan really enjoyed being a tour guide and was very easy to talk to. [More Information]

Three of our members passed away in July and August
Alvin Tharp passed away

Alvin was a member for the past couple years. [More Information]

Robert Kleinknecht passed away

Bob was a member and the father of Kent who is a very active member. [More Information]

Gregory Maternowski passed away

Greg was with for just a short time, joining in January of 2014.  He was very active for the first 7 months until medical issue’s caused him to curtail his activities. [More Information]

Jim Bede passed away

A pioneer in the aviation industry he was a mentor and a friend to everyone who had the dream to own and fly their own plane. [More Information]

Art Rohr passed away

WWII vet, 93 years old.  His services should be in the paper soon and Bob Schwartz will send out a mass email.  Art had joined in 2011.

Bud Mock passes on 6-29-2015

It is with great sadness that we report the passing of long time MAPS member Bud Mock. Bud passed away yesterday, Monday June 29, 2015.  Bud was a WWII veteran and retired from Goodyear. At MAPS Bud was on the Spirit of Akron restoration crew and also worked on the B-26.  Bud had been inactive due to health issues since 2011. Bud had been a active member since 1999. [More Information]

Director’s Election

Directors for 2015 – 2017 term have been voted with the following results. We want to thank all the candidates for their interest in serving as a director.

  • Bob Hollis
  • Jim Jackson
  • Wayne Noall
  • Ken Ramsay
June 14, 2015 @ 1:00 pm – Unveiling Jean Ann’s Plaques

Please join us on Flay Day and Bob Withee’s Birthday for an unveiling of the granite plaques that will be mounted around Jean Ann’s base. The ceremony will begin at 1:00 at the monument. After the ceremony, we will have a reception/birthday party in the hangar. Please bring a dessert to share, we will get a small cake.

Bob Withee's Plane - Jean Ann

Bob Withee’s Plane – Jean Ann

Members Die in plane crash

We have lost two MAPS Members and two very nice people. George and Pamela Ihrig Fonseca died after a small plane crash in southwestern Virginia. They were very supportive of the museum and our mission. “Flying was their passion and they did everything together” according to Michael Kelly, their son-in-law. [More Information]

George and Pamela Ihrig Fonseca

George and Pamela Ihrig Fonseca