Recession? Not at Skydive Chicago!!
First, I would like to congratulate the new AFP graduates: Mark Szuma, Alex Blackwell, and Brom Costa. The AFP program is just moving right along and we are getting more and more reservations for the courses throughout the summer. 
Next, I would like to congratulate the new FAA certified riggers. Para-concept is wrapping up their Spring Course.
We had a few unique visitors this past week. First Abe Lincoln stopped by for a jump. We are teaming up with the Ottawa Visitors Center in an Ad campaign. It’s the 150th anniversary for the famous Lincoln-Douglas debates in Ottawa. The campaign highlights what Lincoln would do if he revisited Ottawa today. I’m sure SDC would be on his ‘list’. 
Also stopping by this week we had the Flying Elvi. They were jumping in to the Harrah’s Casino in Joliet. Thanks for letting SDC be apart of your event. 
Jerry has been slammed with demos and contracts in the 182. We have been booked through the end of August!! I’m still actively searching for another aircraft to handle this increased workload. Jerry was over at Des Moines Skydivers this past weekend. Des Moines is home to the famous Couch Freaks Boogie and Jerry, having been there many times, felt right at home. Jerry heads over to Nebraska this coming weekend for their Memorial Day boogie.
Dave and 30EA were down in Vandalia this past weekend. Unfortunately, they had some high winds and weren’t able to jump that much. 
The winds didn’t keep us down very long. Thanks to the manifest, packers and great tandem team for cranking out 97 tandems by 5 pm even with a late start!! I’m truly honored to be working with such a great team. 
Saturday night Geniez Café had a Mexican feast for dinner. The buffet line was long, as the food was certainly top notch. This past weekend was the last for the Skylounge, we are moving outside to the Tiki bar this weekend! Throughout the summer the Tiki Hut will be open during the day on weekends serving all types of burgers and other grilled food!
On the other side of the hanger we held an Electronic Music party with around 100 people in attendance shaking their booties to the latest music. Special thanks to Allen and Nicole who packed all day and then bartended all night!!
Due to the high winds Swoop club has been moved to June 1st. We want people to get their swoop on and not have to have catchers!! 
Don’t forget the garage sale is happening this weekend. If you have stuff that you are wanting to sell bring it out. We will have tables set up so you can display your items. You are responsible for all transactions. The sale is not limited to skydiving equipment; you can sell whatever (legal) items you would like.
We will have both Otters on the flight line this weekend as we are expecting a big turnout. The forecast is looking great, imagine that, and we have the teams training along with big tandem numbers. 
Also this weekend (Sunday) is the WSDRA fundraiser. Local jumper Mike Deegan and World Famous jumper Casey Deegain will be on hand helping raise money to build a gym. This is a great cause and even better that one of them is a jumper. There will be press on hand documenting the event as well as TV. I look forward to seeing this event unfold. If you would like to help raise money please check out there website: www.wdsra.com
The Tiki Bar will be open on Friday so come join us for the grand opening!! It will also be open for dinner on Saturday and Sunday evening with a great menu planned! Saturday, for $10 a plate, there will be Rib Eye Steaks with creamy horseradish sauce, Roasted Potatoes, Green Beans Almandine, and Fruit Kabobs. Sunday, for $9 a plate, there will be Wine & herb garlic baked chicken, 3 cheese ravioli served in a creamy tomato sauce, roasted vegetables, Caesar salad & garlic bread.
Rook |