The Project Started With The Opening Of Packing Crates That Looked Like A Bunch Of Happy Children Attacking Presents Under The Christmas Tree

By Earl Downs

On the first day of EAA AirVenture the One Week Wonder project started to spread its wings. The event began at 8 o’clock sharp when EAA Chairman, Jack Pelton, started the master timekeeping clock. The one week wonder Zenith 750 Cruzer would begin life as any kit purchaser would receive the materials. As the first packing crate was opened, one observer said, “I would sure love to have something like that show up under my Christmas tree.”

Workers and watchers were there as Pelton addressed the gathering and started the clock. Chris Heinz, the founder of the Zenith aircraft company was in attendance as the unpacking of the Zenith 750 Cruzer began. Over 100 dedicated volunteer helpers were there to get things started. These volunteers have had experience with aircraft home-building before and will help guide and teach other participants as they sign the logbook and join in the project.

Pelton said, “This is a very special day for us because people are going to get together and build their first airplane.” Pelton added that the goal was to complete the airplane and perform a first taxi test by the last day of AirVenture. He reminded everyone that this project could not have been brought without the participation of the sponsors.

The kit had been shipped as it would be to any kit purchaser. It wasn’t long before the packing materials were scattered about as parts were removed and placed on the tables. As soon as the parts were laid out the volunteers started setting things up. Within 15 minutes other people were asking how they could join in and the participation of more people begin.

A woman watching the asked one of the volunteers if it was all right for a woman to help. She was assured that this project is for everybody and was eagerly urge to participate. Within 30 minutes of the start of the project active work was beginning on various components of the aircraft. It appeared that things were so well organized the only problem immediately observed was dispensing with the packing materials. That was rapidly resolved as more trash cans were moved into the area.

ANN will provide regular updates as the work progresses.

(Image by Eric Van Gilder)

FMI: www.eaa.org