First I apologize for slacking on the updates but I decided to build a house, mixed in with buying an airplane and topped off with running for the USPA BOD.  This winter seems to be busier than the summer was!!

I would like to welcome a new member to the SDC family N220EA.  Those of who have been around SDC know that we used to own an aircraft with the same tail number.  In the sale of the Otter part of the deal was that I get to keep my tail number.  I knew one day that I would expand our fleet and 2009 will be that year.  It still has a future date with the paint shop and then she will fit right in.  With the Caravan on line we only need 6 people to send the aircraft up which in turn means more weekday loads for fun jumpers!! 

I have spent the last two weekends in Sebastian, FL.  Their season is just starting to gear up and there is great momentum there.  Last week the Space Shuttle was launched and 15 lucky people were in freefall to take in the sights! 

This past weekend I took part in 16-way freefly sequentials with Luis.  Sebastian does a good job making sure there are plenty of organizers to jumps with, no matter what kind of jumping you are into.  Check out their calendar of events at www.skydiveseb.com

Also happening the past two weeks in Sebastian they have been testing 3-D cameras for a new film they will be producing in conjunction with Red Bull.  The film is truly amazing to watch.  It takes skydiving film to the next level; it truly looks like you can take a dock on the formation.  You feel a part of the skydive with the 3-d glasses that you have to wear. 

SDC landed the aircraft contract for the final filming in the Florida Keys!  The six-week deal will have us providing the aircraft for the film.  So when you are watching the film (due out late next year) you can say, I’ve jumped from that plane!  I’ll be sending updates from the set location throughout the winter. 

Back at SDC Whitney, David, Sara and the gang have been holding the fort down.  For a while there I thought the sun was on strike!  With the cooler temps it certainly hasn’t been too busy.  It has given us a chance to catch up from a hectic summer. 

This is the last week before SDC is closed for the season.  Once we close we have limited office hours but will be checking the voicemail and email.  IF you have any business I ask that you try to get it done prior to December 1st. 

Great news gas prices have dropped; unfortunately we will be closed soon.  I will be posting the jump package prices by the Christmas Party (Dec. 6).  I would like to think that fuel prices will stay the same but have to plan for them bouncing back a little in the summer.  You are going to want to lock in a great rate with the calendar of events that we are lining up.   We are working on events for everyone at the DZ, especially all the new jumpers that we have.  We still have some weekends open so if you are interested in seeing an event or have an idea for one please contact rook@skydivechicago.com

Speaking of the Christmas party we have the menu (sorry for the delay). 

Assortment of Hors D'oeuvres
Spinach Walnut Strawberry Salad
Rolls
Scalloped Potatoes
Glazed Carrots
Mac & Cheese
Almond pearls Green Beans
Prime Rib
Cheese Stuffed Chicken
Citrus Poached Salmon
Dessert

Prepay for your tickets by Dec.2 and get it for $30, or at the door $40.  Be a part of a celebration of the safe 2008 season.

If you haven’t I encourage you to vote for the upcoming USPA BOD.  You can find your ballots in this month Parachutist or in manifest.  I am running for central regional director.  I ask for your vote and give my suggestion for other candidates HERE. 

With the holidays not too far away don’t forget that Gift Certificates make a great stocking stuffer.  They can be purchased in any amount for experienced or first time jumpers.  They can be obtained though the office or online at our website.

Campground residents: after the Christmas Party weekend we will be turning off the power to the campground.  Storage rate is $55 per month, which can be paid online at www.ottawaairportinc.com or send your payment to manifest. 

We do have some storage space available in the main hangar for anyone interested.  Please contract rook@skydivechicago.com for details.

Don’t get a case of cabin fever this winter:

Dec 27. – Jan 4 Chicago Invasion of Sebastian www.skydiveseb.com
Jan. 2-4        Freefly World Record Tryouts @ Sebastian
Jan. 22-26        Everglades Boogie
Feb. 11- 15        Puerto Rico Freefall Festival  www.xtremedivers.com
March 13        Safety Day @ Skydive Chicago
March 14       Opening Day @ Skydive Chicago

From all of us at Skydive Chicago have a safe and happy Thanksgiving? 

Rook  Nelson