So even though the weather hasn’t been picture perfect and it was snowing yesterday, there have been some exciting changes at SDC. First Para-Concepts is expanding the loft. They are taking most of the vacant space that was in the basement. With their work load increasing they were in need of more space. Para-Concepts is the service center for Icraus Canopies by the way. They can handle most any repair, modification, repack or custom work you need. Kirk Smith is a very talented Master Rigger and DPRE. I feel lucky to have him here and maintaining our equipment. The next time you walk into manifest you will notice something new. Kenny and Whitney have been working hard to make your visit to Manifest more enjoyable. I not going to give it away but let’s say it’s much more pleasant. Also in Manifest we are in the beginning stages of implementing the manifest portion of Real Dropzone. Matt Christenson has been working a double shift getting his program ready for the season ahead of us. Matt’s goal is to have the product available for other Drop Zones by Mid to late summer.
It seemed like everyday last week people we’re calling about Summerfest. I’m happy to announce that we will have balloons here for Summerfest! Thanks to Happy, we are able to bring the balloon people from WFFC here. Also The Flying Hellfish and Dirty Sanchez Bros. will be here for Summerfest. The Hellfish will host their famous toga party, and talking to the organizers they already have $1000 worth of margaritas!!
Those of you who are interested in participating in the POPS record in July; John has set up a registration on www.bigways.com. You are able to sign up and register for the event though their website. In talking to TJ recently they are getting lots of response.
I like to welcome Wade and soon Helen back. They had a winter long road trip and from what I can tell can’t wait to get the season started.
An interesting note from the new proposed FAA ‘user fee’ taken from the USPA website. On February 14, the FAA released its plan to revamp air traffic control to a cost-based system funded by a combination of user fees, fuel taxes, and the general fund. Though the FAA has not yet finalized all details, it does say that “Air traffic user fees would apply to commercial flights by turbine-powered aircraft (jets and turboprops).” Exactly how the rates will be structured is still to be determined, but there would be separate fees for enroute, terminal, and other airspace. The FAA intends to introduce congestion fees for those that use the airspace around the 30 large, congested hub airports. Whether those fees would be restricted to the surrounding Class B airspace, or beyond, is not specified. The FAA also proposes an increase in the federal fuel tax to 70 cents per gallon on both avgas (currently taxed at 19.3 cents per gallon) and jet fuel (currently taxed at 21.8 cents per gallon). Already, there are many in Congress who have expressed displeasure and disagreement with the administration’s proposal. Clearly there will be a political battle before this is decided. USPA staff is reviewing the fine print for details. More information is on the FAA web site here: http://www.faa.gov/regulations_policies/reauthorization/
Besides our sport being on a downward trend now the FAA wants to impose crazy taxes on us!! Did we do something wrong to deserve this? I guess we need Bush Jr. to take up jumping like his dad.
I apologize for not including the new campground rate into the update. I made a post in January 22 in the special announcements. At any rate here is the post: Due to the recent hike in electricity prices we have to raise campground rent. Here are the rates for 2007. Those with outstanding balances please bring them current or we will remove your trailer. These rates will be in effect starting 3-1-07. Campground Rent for 2007 Basic Rental Fees Monthly Storage (Dec. – Feb.) $55 -Your power will be turned off Electric Only Rental Fee Full time $225 Part time $115 -less then 10 days per month Weekend $25 1 week $120 Full Hook Up Full Time $255 Part Time -Less than 10 days per month $155 Weekends $35 per day 1 week $120 Tent Space $25 Per night Enrolled student Free Limited to 3 guests All campers (non-jumpers included) must be waived. This is a private campground and everyone must be skydiving or canoeing. The rate change took place March 1st. If anyone has any questions please let me know. Also if anyone is familiar with solar power please contact me. I have done a little research but can always learn more. E-mail me Rook@skydivechicago.com .
I like to welcome Chip to the SDC team. He is going to be flying for us this season, in addition to Dave Schwartz. Chip come with lots of time flying jumpers and is looking forward to getting the season started. With lots of two plane shots weekends we are going to need him!!
The Skylounge will be open this Friday at 9 pm. Saturday the dinner will be Lasagna, stuffed shells, Vegetables, and Garlic Bread Sticks. She is also running a special on Bud Lite tap, $6 all you can drink.
Till the cold front moves on… Rook “If you have received this weekly update by email but have not yet signed up for an account on our new website, please sign up for an account so that you continue to receive updates by email.” |