Just to fill everyone in, there has been a family emergency keeping me away from my normal activities. Without going into detail, I almost lost my father this past weekend and he is still in the Critical Care Unit. His condition is critical, but stable. I have returned to work, but make the 100-mile drive every night to make the last of the daily visiting times. Hopefully he'll be moved to a regular room by the end of the week, but for now it's day-to-day.

This means that I am unable to fill in at the hubs whose managers are on LOA leaving pilots with two choices; contact Eric for an assignment (I'm sure he's already swamped) or free-fly. FREE-FLY AUTHORIZATION IS FOR AFFECTED HUBS ONLY! Send PIREPs as usual, but put "Authorized free-flight" in the comments block. I will be able to review and accept PIREPs, but will not have time to create and issue assignments.

Shiny side up, guys!

Andy

On October 11, 2008, one of the most prolific members of the IVAO US Division was tragically taken from us as a result of an automobile accident. Mrs. Shelly Johnson joined IVAO in November of 2005 and had logged over 3500 hours as a pilot flying for Eagle Air Charters and later Simulated Continental Airlines. She was probably best known for her attempt to begin the "Flying Girls Club" which provided inspiration for IVAO female pilots from around the world.

On Saturday, November 15, 2008, the United States Divsision invites you to join us as we pay our respects to Shelly and her illustrious virtual career with a fly-in to her home airport of Colorado Springs, CO (KCOS).

For this fly-in, there will be no booking system: please join us when you can. Both arrivals and departures will be accepted, however, delays should be anticipated by pilots and we recommend an alternate airport of Denver International (KDEN).

For more information, see http://events.ivaousa.org/index.php?page=shelly.

It is with a heavy heart and deep regret that I pass on the news that one of our greatest members, once a truly inspiring and very integral part of this VA, Shelly Johnson, has passed on. Shelly was very influential in most everyone's lives. She was a very tender, caring soul. Shelly would not hesitate to offer help in any way she could. She spoke often of her husband, Scott, and her two boys, James and Scott Jr., who she loved beyond measure. On October 11th, 2008, Shelly was taken from all of us by a drunk driver. I am deeply saddened by this news, passed on to us by her brother-in-law James. I find some relief in knowing that Shelly was a person of tremendous faith, and I know she's soaring among the angels. To Shelly's family, I can only offer our deepest condolences and pray that our Father above comfort them and us in the time ahead. Shelly, we love you and miss you!

I received an email earlier today announcing the DC-3 Airways World Rally 2008. I am thrilled to forward the below invitation to all our members and staff;

DC-3 Airways are very pleased to announce the return of the DC-3 Airways World Rally, which will begin on the 18th of October 2008. On behalf of the staff and members of DC-3 Airways I offer a most warm invitation to all the staff and members of Eagle Air Charter to join us in enjoying the rally. The rally consists of ten mildly challenging flights from around the world which must be flown in any variation of the Douglas DC-3. You may learn all about the rally by visiting us at www.dc3airways.com and hitting the WR2008 button on the menu bar, where you may see what the DC-3 Airways World Rally 2008 is all about. We very much look forward to welcoming you.
 
Norm Hancock
President
DC-3 Airways.

I can speak from personal experience when I say that this event is pure fun! I highly encourage all who possibly can to sign up and take part.

This has been a very unusual week in that I have created four certificates of promotion! That is a great reflection of the caliber of pilots we have here at EAC! Keep up the great work, guys!