This past weekend was a unique one.  Staying true to our SOS program we expanded our client base to include some new jumpers. 

Training started early Friday morning with the new class arriving at 9am.  We got them all signed in and headed straight down to class.  The bunch was full of energy, but thanks to Dave Elliot, Whitney, Kenny and myself we were able to keep a handle on things. 

After class we practiced getting geared up.  The students were eager to get in the air, however we still had some training to do. 

Next we headed over to the creepers to dirt dive the jump.  The students really got into the 360s. 

Then off to the Mock-ups.  We then got in to the aircraft and ready for the big ‘jump’!  Each student nervously crawled in to the otter after taking the ‘shoes’ off. 

Some were a little braver than others performing flips.  Most of new the students opted for the flat and level exit. 

After their jump the new graduates were debriefed and had some lunch.  We wish happy landings to them and follow the golden rules!! 

Thanks to the Grand Ridge second graders for taking a field trip to Skydive Chicago. 

The weekend held true to being the windy city.  Saturday started off a little chilly but that didn’t stop the 4-way teams.  Wheels were up at 8:30 am and didn’t really stop until the winds picked up mid afternoon. 

Unfortunately the winds didn’t make for a good CPC meet.  Thanks to Dan for wading into the icy water to set the course up. 

Saturday night I got a phone call from Kenny telling me that I had to get up to the sky-lounge to get some dinner.  I arrived to I think one of the best meals Genize’s Café has made, Country Fried Chicken with gravy.  It was really Good.

As the night carried on we started with a game of win-lose or draw that to say the least made for some interesting artwork. 

Sunday was an early start as well with the wheels lifting off the ground just past 8am.  The forecast was for high winds but they never seemed to make it to SDC.  Many people took advantage of the early season nice weather to get their trailers organized.  Please respect the dumpster and its for campground residents only. 

We have been in working towards making SDC a greener DZ.  We are meeting with Ray from RDS electric about installing solar panels on the roof.  We are working on getting grants and other funding to help move this project along.  Hopefully by the end of the summer we will have completed this project. 

In addition we have installed energy efficient light though the DZ.  Each bulb that we replaced is saving 52 watts of power!!  Times that by the number of lights here and the saving s start adding up.  Not to mention being greener to the environment.  I’m now looking into replacing the hanger and outside hanger light with more efficient LED lighting.   No one alone can save the planet but if we all give a little effort the air we breathe might be a little cleaner.  Now if they can come up with the electric otter we would be all set. 

Coming up this weekend, it’s Cinco de Mayo!  SDC 4-way team Quattro are going to host the night with the lounge opening at 7pm Saturday night.  There will be an all you can eat taco bar for $8, margaritas for $3, sauza shots for $2.50, and all you can drink Bud light on tap for $7.  There will be a piñata with prizes along with other games.  Don’t miss out! 

Also this Sunday is the May episode of swoop club.  Make sure you don’t do too much shots Saturday night!! 

Let keep the good weather on a roll!!

Rook

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