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A merger on Aug 1, 2009 of RSP and Delta Retired Pilots Communication Network 

High Life

For all Delta people who have truly touched the High Life/

Dear PCN,

Group Section……

Mark’s Remarks:

Under the weather! Back next week!

Mark’s Tidbits:

News Section……

Delta News (Recent stories of interest): Yahoo, AJC

JAL, Delta reach basic deal over comprehensive tie-up

The Yomiuri Shimbun

Japan Airlines and Delta Air Lines on Friday reached a basic agreement on a comprehensive tie-up that mainly features code-sharing flight services, company sources said.

The ailing airline and the world's largest carrier are likely to officially sign the deal after it is finally endorsed by new JAL top management that will be inaugurated after the JAL group applies for the application of the Corporate Rehabilitation Law.

Kazuo Inamori, honorary chairman and founder of electronics firm Kyocera Corp., will lead JAL's new management as chief executive officer.

The basic agreement was reached in working-level talks between JAL and Delta at the embattled airline's head office in Tokyo.

The Enterprise Turnaround Initiative Corporation of Japan--a state-backed corporate rehabilitation body that is playing a key role in JAL's reconstruction--apparently believes that a tie-up with Delta will improve the efficiency of JAL's services in international routes. The corporate turnaround body is convinced this will make it possible for JAL to bring its struggling business back on track at an early date, according to the sources.

Delta holds a predominant market share in Pacific routes between Japan and the United States. JAL's international operations have hampered its profitability over the years.

The tie-up means JAL will switch from the Oneworld airline alliance to the SkyTeam group, to which Delta belongs.

JAL and Delta will ask the U.S. Transportation Department for antitrust immunity by mid-February. If the application is accepted, the two airlines will be able to efficiently run flights over their Pacific routes in what amounts to business integration.

Meanwhile, transport minister Seiji Maehara and Prime Minister Yukio Hatoyama agreed Friday night that legal procedures for JAL's bankruptcy protection would be initiated Tuesday. They made the decision during a meeting at the Prime Minister's Office.

JAL and its two main subsidiaries, Japan Airlines International Co. and JAL Capital Co., will apply for the application of the Corporate Rehabilitation Law. This will be followed by an official decision to be made by the turnaround body to aid JAL's rehabilitation, thus officially placing the cash-strapped carrier under state control.

On Tuesday, the government will issue a statement pledging to take all possible steps to ensure JAL's flight services are provided without a hitch. It will also provide nations that JAL flies to and from with explanations about matters pertinent to JAL's rehabilitation, including the protection of their claims related to business transactions with the ailing carrier.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------





+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Delta buys 9 MD-90s from China Eastern

January 15, 2010

Delta is adding nine MD-90 aircraft purchased from China Eastern Airlines to its fleet, an acquisition that will make Delta the world’s second-largest operator of the aircraft.

Delta will receive the aircraft between February and July. Two additional MD-90s will be delivered from Boeing Capital, a division of the aircraft manufacturer, which will bring the total to 11 of the aircraft added to the fleet this year.

“Those MD-90s are quite flexible because they fit in our network,” said Hank Halter, Delta’s chief financial officer, at a recent event for Delta investors. “We’re not looking to grow capacity, but when there’s very inexpensive opportunities for lift, such as the MD-90, we’ll certainly consider it.”

The airplanes are the most efficient narrow body aircraft in Delta’s fleet, Hank said, and provide a cost-effective tool for managing Delta’s capacity. The purchase will not add to Delta’s capacity, but will partially offset the reduction of DC-9s and regional jets in the fleet.

The current seating configuration for the aircraft is 150, with 12 in first class and 138 in coach. All of the jets will be upgraded with brand-new interiors before entering service. Once the aircraft are received, Delta will have 28 MD-90s, the second-largest fleet in the world after Saudi Arabian Airlines, which has 29.

Other Airline News (Recent stories of interest):

JAL to shrink by 30% / Will halve subsidiaries, retire all jumbo jets under reconstruction plan

Yasuhiro Takizawa / Yomiuri Shimbun Staff Writer

Japan Airlines will be drastically restructured, with 15,700 jobs slashed within itself and its group firms, 27 branch offices abroad closed and its subsidiaries halved to 57, according to the framework plan drawn up under the administration of a state-backed corporate turnaround body.

The ailing airline also plans to cut its sales for the 2012 business year by more than 30 percent from the figure posted in the 2008 business year that ended in March 2009 and turn itself into a corporate group that will make a steady profit.

Over the next three years, the airline will concentrate its corporate resources on businesses deemed essential for keeping its aircraft flying.

Of its 110 subsidiaries, including those managing tourist agencies and hotels, JAL will sell off 24 while liquidating 15 firms and cutting 14 others by integrating them into other entities.

The airline is poised to shift its emphasis to fuel-efficient small- and midsize aircraft, eliminating all its 37 jumbo jets by March 2015.

The reconstruction plan does not go so far as to spell out the exact number of service routes to be abolished. On the other hand, it clearly states that the planned corporate pension benefit cut accepted recently by JAL's employees and its retirees should be reflected in the reconstruction plan.

JAL has projected that it will post sales of 1.36 trillion yen for business year ending in March 2013, more than 30 percent less than the figure posted for the year ending in March 2009.

It projects that it will post an operating profit of 49.7 billion yen in the business year ending in March 2012, and 115.7 billion yen in the business year ending in March 2013.

After ironing out the details of the corporate reconstruction plan with the government and its creditor banks, the airline will file for bankruptcy protection under the Corporate Rehabilitation Law on Tuesday.

On the same day, the Enterprise Turnaround Initiative Corporation of Japan, a state-backed corporate bailout body, is expected to announce its plan to assist the airline.

While implementing the reconstruction plan, the airline's rehabilitation plan will be submitted to the court under the same law in July.

The reconstruction plan will be supplanted by the rehabilitation plan, under which the company will reduce its capital by 100 percent and the bailout body will inject about 300 billion yen of public funds into JAL, after the government approves the latter plan.

High-cost operations face ax

With the restructuring plan, JAL is set to take the ax to its high-cost operating system and improve its profitability by slashing 15,700 of the about 47,000 workers in it and its group firms--7,300 more than the plan drawn up by an expert task force in October--while its projected sales and operating profit for the business year ending in March 2012 are almost the same as those projected by the task force.

JAL had originally planned to cut 6,800 jobs according to the reconstruction plan worked out under the administration of former Prime Minister Taro Aso in September. Even under the plan worked out by the expert task force, the planned job cut was set at just 8,400.

"Compared with such rivals as All Nippon Airways, JAL has an overwhelmingly larger number of personnel at various workplaces," a source knowledgeable about the airline said. With the latest plan, the airline is set to reduce jobs drastically under the supervision of the state-backed bailout body.

Meanwhile, it plans to close 27 branch offices in foreign countries, having reviewed the productivity of its sales and marketing outlets, in light of the ever-increasing sales of airline tickets over the Internet.

But JAL has not spelled out any concrete figures for cutting its unprofitable routes at the moment. In the previous plan, it planned to abolish 50 domestic and international routes, while the task force called for abolishing 45 routes.

JAL plans to switch its business and capital tie-up partner from the current American Airlines to Delta Air Lines of the United States--the world's largest airline--and is now entering the final phase of negotiations on the switchover.

Meanwhile, ANA has sought approval from the government for taking over some international routes from JAL, while winnowing overlapping service routes.

JAL's international routes will be greatly affected by developments in the business environment in the days ahead. For this reason, the bailout body is believed to have concluded that it would be difficult to include any concrete plan for cutting routes by the time JAL is scheduled to sign a formal contract with Delta next month.

JAL mileage points to be assured

The state-backed body leading JAL's turnaround announced Wednesday it would guarantee customers' mileage program points and four other types of credit in its rehabilitation plan for the ailing carrier.

The turnaround body said, in addition to assuring mileage points, it would guarantee credit for commercial transactions and lease credit for aircraft, as well as backing air tickets and complimentary gift certificates for shareholders that have already been issued.

The turnaround body plans to limit confusion among JAL's business partners and customers by clearly announcing the types of credit subject to guarantees prior to making a decision on providing the airline with financial assistance. It also has added information in English on its Web site in a bid to head off credit uncertainty overseas.

2,910 firms rely on JAL group

About 2,910 firms in this country are main business partners with JAL group firms, according to a credit research company.

Damage to these companies due to so-called chain-reaction bankruptcy resulting from JAL's rehabilitation is expected to be limited, as credit for general business with JAL is expected to be protected after the airline applies for court-led restructuring under the Corporate Rehabilitation Law.

However, Tokyo Shoko Research said the reduction of JAL's flights to regional airports could have a ripple effect on firms whose business depends on these operations.

Firms that handle livelihood-related services as well as entertainment companies, such as linen suppliers and travel companies, comprise the largest category among the 2,910 firms. Firms that provide services and sales mainly at regional airports also are likely to be affected.

Many of the firms are based in Chiba Prefecture, where Narita Airport is located, Tokyo and Osaka Prefecture, as well as Okinawa Prefecture and Hokkaido, which have large tourism sectors. Most of the companies are small or midsize firms with annual sales under 1 billion yen.

Tokyo Shoko Research compiled its findings by looking at firms in its database that primarily trade with JAL group firms.

Finance Section (section containing items with financial consequence to our group):

FINANCE: CLAIMS/PBGC/HCTC/INSURANCE/PLANNING/TAX/ESTATE 

Remaining financial items for retirees to watch:

After Aug 2007 these are retirement items remaining with financial consequence. 

1. PBGC 2nd look re-calc at qualified annuity benefits - completed 8/24/07

2. PBGC make up lump payment for underpayments since termination:  most reported received 1/31/08

3. Final claim distribution by DAL through BSI - pending (now likely in '10 according to Kight)

4. Class Action suit against DAL concerning 5 yr look-back worth in excess of $100 million - withdrawn

5. Final PBGC re-calc "determination" of qualified annuity (likely after claim stock sale) - pending

6. Pension reinstatement/contribution request by DP3 representing the retired pilots. very long shot....pending

7. Roth IRA creation as per Worker, Retiree, and Employer Recovery Act of 2008 - deadline June 22nd, 2009

8. Expiration of HCTC 80% premium subsidy will expire on December 31, 2010.

Insurance (issues about health, life or disability that are of interest):

Important Alert for HCTC Participants

January 15, 2010

Our Mission Statement

To work to preserve the earned pensions, health insurance and other benefits paid by Delta Air Lines to retired Delta pilots, their dependents and survivors.

Dear Mark,

If you are receiving the HCTC, regardless of your insurance provider, you must notify the HCTC when there is an increase in your premium. The HCTC will continue sending the old premium payment, and you could lose your insurance coverage if the new premium is not fully paid.

Delta increased the HCTC eligible COBRA premium effective January 1, 2010. If you did not inform the HCTC of the increase, you are at risk of losing your DAL COBRA coverage. You must act now to ensure your DAL COBRA premium is fully paid by January 31, 2010.

To check the status of your January health insurance and the amount due, follow these steps:

·    Logon to Delta Net

·    Go to "Employee Information"

·    Select "Self Service"

·    Click on "Agree"   

·    Select "Benefits Direct" on the left side

·    Select "Health, Disability and Insurances"

·    Select "Coverage Payment" and scroll down to see if you have a balance due.  If you do, you'll see a message similar to the below:  

Our records indicate that you have an outstanding balance of $89.48 which is due by 01/31/2010.

If we do not receive your full payment by the Payment Due Date, your benefits coverage will be terminated retroactive to the last day of the month for which we have received full payment. Your benefit coverage will not be reinstated if it is terminated for a late or missing payment and you will be responsible for the cost of any claims incurred as of the coverage termination date.

Again, if you do not pay your balance due prior to the end of this month, your Delta Health Care coverage could be terminated and you will not be able to reinstate coverage.

 

If you have a balance due, send payment (put your employee number in the "for" section of the check) to the following address by January, 31, 2010:

 

Premium Payment

ACS HR Solutions for Delta Air Lines

P.O. Box 382119

Pittsburgh, PA 15251-8119

 

 

Since the HCTC will pay 80% of the increase in cost of the health coverage, you'll be able to make a claim for that on your 2011 tax form (IRS form 8885 to claim 80% of the amount you send to Delta).

 

This HCTC Registration Update Form (click link to download) must be faxed to the HCTC at 866-627-4282 with your new payment amount included.  Upon notification of the new amount, the HCTC will forward this information to Delta for the following month.  If you cannot download the form, go to   to print the form.

 

We recommend that you call the HCTC at 866-628-4282 to confirm they've received the form with your new payment information.  

Sincerely,

Will Buergey

Chairman, DP3

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Thanks Howdy. Interesting for Vietnam Vets.



Pension:

DP3 Chairman's Update

January 13, 2010

Our Mission Statement

To work to preserve the earned pensions, health insurance and other benefits paid by Delta Air Lines to retired Delta pilots, their dependents and survivors.

Dear Mark,

Last week the DP3 Trustees held their monthly board meeting and discussed several important topics affecting retired Delta pilots.  The minutes of that meeting are now posted on the DP3 website.

2010 DP3 Dues

We've established a membership dues level of $100 for 2010.  By carefully managing your funds, DP3 ended 2009 on sound financial footing. In the coming year, we're moving forward with several important initiatives to try to maximize our final benefit letters from the PBGC.  This will require us to raise additional funds to meet our anticipated professional expenses.  While the bulk of our work is performed by volunteer trustees elected by the DP3 membership, we have contracted with attorneys and other professionals to help us protect or restore some of our hard earned benefits.   The road ahead will not be easy, but if we simply sit on the sidelines and leave our fate to others, nothing will improve!  DP3 is the only organization fighting to help retired Delta pilots recoup some of our lost pensions.

Partnership with NRLN

To help us achieve our goals, we've decided to renew our membership in the National Retiree Legislative Network (NRLN) in 2010.  Some of you know that the DALRC recently decided to end its relationship with the NRLN.  However, after careful consideration, your trustees believe that the NRLN's efforts will positively impact the retired Delta pilots. In fact, some of NRLN's recent initiatives are geared directly for our benefit.  

Specifically, last year I was elected to serve as a NRLN director and also agreed to chair an ad-hoc committee designed to assist retirees in the event of a bankruptcy filing by their former employer.  DP3 Vice Chairman Wendell Lewis served as the sub-committee chairman of the NRLN special committee dealing primarily with PBGC issues.  As a result of our efforts, the NRLN has adopted two whitepapers dealing with bankruptcy and PBGC reforms.  These whitepapers form the centerpiece of the NRLN's 2010 legislative agenda.  If enacted into law, the proposed PBGC reforms are designed to return most of our lost qualified pension benefits to the retired Delta pilots while the bankruptcy proposals will ensure that in future bankruptcy cases, retirees will be on a more equal footing with other creditors in a bankruptcy case.  

VEBA Update

Our VEBA attorney continues to work with Delta to secure the historical information we need to obtain quotes from potential insurance providers. We had hoped Delta would cooperate in this effort, allowing us to roll out a program as soon as possible. However, so far the company seems most interested in avoiding any costs in establishing this program even though we have demonstrated that a successful DP3 VEBA can save Delta millions of dollars each year. In spite of the administrative setbacks we are still hopeful of rolling out a VEBA option by late spring. We'll continue to advise you of our progress.

Qualifying for HCTC

The trustees are still searching for a way to make more retired pilots eligible for the HCTC.  We will be sending out a separate message requesting information that will help us and our legal counsel assess how economically feasible our strategy choices are and craft the appropriate action for addressing this issue.

HCTC January Billing

Finally, we pass this information along that we received from a DP3 member. Those retired Delta pilots who are eligible for the HCTC may have a balance due on their January medical premium and not know it. Each year the ESC sends the HCTC the new year's medical insurance premiums.  Normally this is done soon enough so the HCTC can make the proper payment for January 1. This did not happen this year so the payment made by the HCTC for Jan 1, 2010, is the 2009 premium. If you had an increase for 2010, you have a balance due which must be paid by Jan 31, 2010.

That's it for this update.  Please remember that there is strength in numbers, and we need every retired Delta pilot to help us help you.  If you have friends who are not currently Honor Roll members, please tell them about the efforts DP3 is making on everyone's behalf.

Sincerely,

 

Will Buergey

Chairman, DP3

 

Visit our web page: 

Visit our BLOG:

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Following string of emails re: Pension issue probably doesn’t apply to very many of us but does to DAL retirees still with a pension:

From: George Chaudoin

Date: 1/15/2010 6:27:38 PM

Subject: From: ATL Delta Subj: DL Retiree Pension Tax Issues

 

From: ATL Delta          Subj: DL Retiree Pension Tax Issues

I was aware that the tax tables changed after the stimulus bill passed, and I noticed the decrease in federal taxes deducted from my paycheck.  I was under the impression that this affected everyone (including retirees), but I’m not an expert on payroll, so I’m forwarding this along to be reviewed.  I’ll let you know what I find

out.

 

From: jbozinny@

This is for all Delta Retiree's Regarding TAX Issues Relating to Your

2009 Pension Income

 

Please Read

 

URGENT AND TIME SENSITIVE

 

To pre-merger Delta retirees and survivors:

 

The emails below are from a fellow pre-merger retiree, ATL airport

manager Gary Xantho.  He has discovered a discrepancy regarding the

amount of federal tax Delta Payroll withheld from the 2009 pension

checks issued from April through December.  This presents a potential

problem for retirees and possibly survivors in figuring their 2009

taxes.  Please read all the messages, from the bottom up.

 

NOTE: In his email Gary mentions Delta Payroll responses he received

and sent.  Because of the confidentiality notice attached to one

forwarded to me, I have omitted it; however, Gary has summarized

Payroll's answers in his remarks.  I have also redacted two names for

privacy reasons.

 

I have forwarded  Gary 's correspondence to the DALRC president, Ken

Boucher, and its board of directors so they can follow up on the

matter with the company.  I hope they will urge Delta to meet with

the IRS as soon as possible to discuss it and reach a settlement.

Time is of the essence, as the 2009 electronic tax withholding forms

are scheduled to be up on DeltaNet beginning January 15.  Therefore,

I also hope that an official statement will be issued shortly.

 

In the interim, I suggest the following actions:

 

 

Check DeltaNet and the Retiree Connection page regularly for an

announcement about updated federal withholding tax information;

 

If necessary, update your Employee Self-Service information with your

current personal email and snail-mail addresses and phone number(s)

through the ESS portal on DeltaNet, or by calling 1-800-MYDELTA for

non-computer instructions;

 

Do the same thing with your DALRC member account; and

 

Do not file your 2009 taxes until official statements, documents and/

or instructions concerning the correct federal withholding tax amount

have been issued.  Hopefully, any delay will be short-lived.

Thank you for your attention.  Please forward, post, read aloud or

print out this communication ASAP for other Delta retirees and

survivors.  Also, please remember to use your email's Bcc field for

multiple addresses; this helps protect them from scammers and online

ID thieves.

 

Regards,

 

Barbara J. Hall

DL ATG/105 (ret. 2001)

 

halzmark11@

 

 

 

From: gjxantho@

To: halzmark11@

Subject: Re: Change in Federal Tax deduction-DCN 8269900

Date: Tue, 12 Jan 2010 21:39:40 -0500

 

Hey Barb --

 

 

Here's the deal:

 

  Jan 1 Pension check - noticed increase in Fed tax taken out - sent

off email to Payroll.  Response was that "Government decided that the

2009 Stimulus back in Feb 2009 which resulted in a withholding

REDUCTION effective April 1 for all of us - no longer applied to

pension distributions".  This is because the "Making Work Pay Tax

Credit" was to apply only to EARNED income/wages.

 

Next - I called IRS and they stated firmly that the "Making Work Pay

Tax Credit" withholding decrease effective April 1, 2009 did not

apply to pension payment/distributions, and that any entity

responsible for such distributions should have known that.  Then, I

went back to Payroll with that info - and you see the response I got

today - in which Delta Payroll is now attempting to say that IRS

withholding tables back then did not properly reflect the fact that

pensions were not eligible.  In addition - the reason the withholding

was increased Jan 1, 2010 is that they first said the IRS, as of

1/1/10, "no longer allowed the reduction for pensions".  Fact is -

they NEVER allowed it for pensions!

 

 

The whole reason I started down this track is - I rough out my 2009

Income Tax Return last week and was SHOCKED to find out that I will

OWE between $750-$850!!!!  Barbs - I file short form separately - no

deductions, no additional wages/earned income --- and last few years

I broke even or got a small refund!!

 

 

Now it looks like because Delta Payroll did not understand that the

Stimulus "Making Work Pay Tax Credit" lower withholding tables DID

NOT apply to pensions - we should not have received a larger net

check starting April 1, 2009.  In short - pension checks for 9 months

of 2009 did not have the proper amount of Federal Withholding Tax

deducted - and now most retirees will have to "pay back" 9 months

reductions plus may be subject to penalties!!!

 

 

I copied (name withheld) in because I had lunch with () today - and I

think () boss needs to jump on this - as does DALRC (feel free to

share with them) and communicate this immediately to all retirees.

Some retirees who may have a lot of deductions and file the long form

may not notice this - but bottom line, it is not right.  I am going

to call IRS back and read them the response from Payroll and see if

they will waive any penalties.

 

 

If you remember back around April 1, 2009 --- we simply received

higher net checks - there was NO communication from Delta or Payroll

at all explaining the "Making Work Pay Tax Credit", etc.  Perhaps

this will be resolved, but if not, many retirees such as myself are

going to have to come up with a chunk of money by April 15th to pay

taxes.

 

That is my understanding so far - that is all I know.  Will be

interesting to see if there is any mass statement on this.

 

 

Hope all is well with you -

 

Gary

 

From: Barbara Hall Sent: Tuesday, January 12, 2010 8:26 PM

 

To: Gary Xantho Subject: Change in Federal Tax deduction-DCN 8269900

 

I can see your reply only.  Please forward earlier communications, if

possible.

 

Thanks, B.

 

From: gjxantho@

 

To: (Addresses Withheld)

Subject: Re: Change in Federal Tax deduction-DCN 8269900

Date: Tue, 12 Jan 2010 15:35:52 -0500

 

Payroll:  Thank you for your reply.  Unfortunately, this will be

placing a real hardship on most if not all people who received

pensions during 2009 since it appears we will have to pay back the

equivalent of 9 months Federal Tax withholding (the amount of the

decrease effective April 1, 2009 each month times 9) all at once when

we file our 2009 Federal Income Tax Return.  This is not a good thing!

 

  (Name Withheld):  I firmly believe that (name withheld) needs to

look at this and that some sort of communication be sent out to all

Delta pensioners as soon as possible to explain and set

expectations.  Otherwise, when everyone starts filing their tax

returns it could generate hundreds of unnecessary phone calls to "My

Delta", Benefits department, etc.  Not sure who exactly responded to

my emails since the reply below (omitted) is signed "Payroll".

Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions.

  Gary J. Xantho

 

NOTE;  MY CHECK COMES FROM PBGC

Blue Side Up

George

Commercial Section……

Investment (Legitimate firms that have helped our groupare encouraged to contact PCN to add articles here):

Section reserved for future content.

Travel & Non-Revving (share a quick reco):

All buddy travel is embargoed on following 2010 dates:

• Saturday, Jan. 30, 2010

• Sunday, Jan. 31, 2010

• Monday, Feb. 1, 2010

• Tuesday, Feb. 2, 2010

• Monday, Feb.15, 2010

• Saturday, March 13, 2010

• Sunday, March 14, 2010

• Friday, April 2, 2010

• Saturday, April 3, 2010

• Sunday, April 4, 2010

• Monday, April 5, 2010

• Friday, May 28, 2010

• Wednesday, Nov. 24, 2010

• Sunday, Nov. 28, 2010

• Monday, Nov. 29, 2010

• Saturday, Dec. 18, 2010

• Friday, Dec. 24, 2010

• Sunday, Dec. 26, 2010

Life Section…

Misc Posts:

I don’t completely understand Jesse’s email but can anyone help the Captain out?

From: Jesse Bootenhoff jbootenhof@

01/17/2010 11:11 AM

F.C." Farouk" Stevens

His son just died and the family needs ,Farouks, middle name ASP. Send to

me please. I believe hi first name was Felton. Jesse

+++++++++++++++++++++++++

Tom Peace Email   tom.peace@

Issue Area Pension

Comments Mark, 

You asked what good has come from the Delta Pilots pension debacle. Not one darned thing that I can find! I now an in the 'Body Bag" retirement program. I get to retire when they zip it up!

 

Much of my lump sum went into caring for my parents until their death. Mom lived to 92 and my Dad to 96. What little was left, the economic crunch has made transparent.

 

Twelve years ago, I dusted off my degree in Radio, Television and Motion Pictures, started a video production company and am managing to keep the wolf from the door by working my butt off 18 hours a day.

 

Yeah, I now have another profession that is interesting and rewarding, but it ain't what I wanted to do.

 

Saddest of all, I really drank the company Kool Aid about the 'Delta Family' for all of my career (30 years) only to find out it was incestuous as I (and all of us) got screwed royally in the end!

 

Of course that might have a tendency to make one just a little bitter!

 

Sorry I couldn't be more consoling! 

Tom Peace

MD-11 Capt Ret

Editor: Tom, first I applaud you for caring for your parents the way you did. Tain’t easy nor cheap.

Secondly, your story highlights something missed by almost every jealous exec and other personnel. The retired pilot group took a far heavier loss (so far) than any other group, hands down and many cases it came just at the worst possible time...

++++++++++++++++++++++

From: RAR56430

Date: 1/13/2010 1:36:14 PM

To: mark@

Subject: EMBRY RIDDLE

MARK,

COULD YOU PUT THIS MEMO OUT TO RETIRED DELTA GROUP.

 

ANYONE OUT THERE A EMBRY RIDDLE GRAD?  I COULD USE YOUR HELP.

 

I HAVE A GRANDSON IN CO., DAKOTA REVACK, WHO IS DETERMINED TO FLY AND TRYING TO GET INTO EMBRY RIDDLE. HE CAN GET SOME FINANCIAL HELP IF HE HAS A ER GRAD ENDORSE HIM. ANYONE WILLING TO DO THAT?  HE GRADUATES IN MAY, IS ON THE HONOR ROLL. ANY HELP IN REGARD TO THIS WOULD GREATLY BE APPRECIATED.

THANKS, RUTH READY

WIDOW OF CAPT. JERRY L. READY

++++++++++++++++++++++

[pic]From: John L. McCarthy

Date: 1/12/2010 10:54:51 AM

Subject: Fw:

  [pic] [pic] [pic]

DELTAGANG =

                    YELLOWBIRDS =

Human Interest:

Emergency Weather Bulletin (Thanks Gary)

This text is from a county emergency manager out in the western part of the Upper Peninsula of Michigan after a severe snow storm ...

The Mining Journal, Marquette, MI

WEATHER BULLETIN

Up here in the Northern part of Michigan we just recovered from a Historic event --- may I even say a "Weather Event" of "Biblical Proportions" --- with a historic blizzard of up to 44" inches of snow and winds to 90 MPH that broke trees in half, knocked down utility poles, stranded hundreds of motorists in lethal snow banks, closed ALL roads, isolated scores of communities and cut power to 10's of thousands.

[pic] 

FYI:

Obama did not come.

FEMA did nothing.

No one howled for the government.

No one blamed the government.

No one even uttered an expletive on TV.

Jesse Jackson or Al Sharpton did not visit.

Our Mayor's did not blame Obama or anyone else.

Our Governor did not blame Obama or anyone else either.

CNN, ABC, CBS, FOX, or NBC did not visit - or even report on this category 5 snow storm.

[pic]

 

Nobody demanded $2,000 debit cards.

No one asked for a FEMA Trailer House.

No one looted.

Nobody - I mean Nobody demanded the government do something.

Nobody expected the government to do anything either.

No Larry King, No Bill O'Rielly, No Oprah, No Chris Mathews and No Geraldo Rivera.

No Shaun Penn, No Barbara Striesand,

No Brad Pitt, No Hollywood types to be found.

[pic]

 

Nope, we just melted the snow for water.

Sent out caravans of SUV's to pluck people out of snow engulfed cars.

The truck drivers pulled people out of snow banks and didn't ask for a penny.

Local restaurants made food, and the police and fire departments delivered it to the snow bound families..

Families took in the stranded people - total strangers.

[pic]

We fired up wood stoves, broke out coal oil lanterns or Coleman lanterns.

We put on an extra layers of clothes because up here it is "Work or Die".

We did not wait for some affirmative action government to get us out of a mess created by being immobilized by a welfare program that trades votes for 'sittin at home' checks.

Even though a  Category 5 blizzard of this scale is not usual, we know it can happen and how to deal with it ourselves.

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I hope this gets passed on.

Maybe .....

SOME people will get the message ......

The world does Not owe you a living.

Good Read (Good book recommendation & Community Author’s blurbs):

Event Announcements (Click here for PCN Org & Groups Page): to post pcn.calendar@

[pic]From: Alan W. Price

Date: 1/12/2010 12:34:53 PM

To: mark@

Subject: Hearts for Heroes: 11 Feb 10, Strand Theatre Marietta, Ga

Mark,

We are hosting an evening to honor our military and benefit the aviation wing of the Marietta Museum of History.  This is going to be a great evening…Dennis Haysbert of “The Unit” will be coming, retired 4-star Admiral Jim Ellis, whose brother is a retired Delta captain, and former Gov. Roy Barnes among others.  I’ve attached a promotional blurb about the evening.  How would I get a posting on PCN to spread the word?

Many thanks.

Alan Price

C:  678-549-6858

Hearts for Heroes

“Hearts for Heroes” will support the Aviation Wing of the Marietta Museum of History, while recognizing Cobb County’s unique military history and heritage. “Hearts for Heroes” is on Thursday night, the 11th of February, 2010 at the Strand Theatre. The program begins with a musical pre-concert at 6:30 PM, and the main event from 7:00 PM. Former Governor Roy Barnes and Cobb Commission Chairman Sam Olens are honorary co-hosts. Among the featured presenters are Dennis Haysbert (Of TV show “The Unit” fame), retired US Army Command Master Sergent Eric Haney (Author of “Inside Delta Force”), and Major General Terry Nesbitt, Adjutant General of the Georgia National Guard.

The evening will tell the fascinating story that our military, and military aviation in particular, has played in the development of North Georgia. Former Governor and Mrs. Roy Barnes will host an “after” party at their home on Whitlock Avenue. Tickets to the main event are $30, or $100 for the after-party, which includes admission to the main event. We also welcome donations to invite deserving military personnel free of charge. “Hearts for Heroes” is a fabulous opportunity to have fun while doing good. See you there!

_____________________________________________________________________________________

Support the Aviation Wing of the Marietta Museum of History by joining us at…

Hearts for Heroes – A Night to Honor Our Military

• Former Governor Roy Barnes and Cobb Commission Chairman Sam Olens honorary co-hosts

• National and local celebrities including Dennis Haysbert of the TV show “The Unit”; Eric Haney, author of “Inside Delta Force”, and Maj Gen Terry Nesbitt, Adj Gen of the Georgia ANG.

• Honor our military heroes, active and retired.

• Come learn the fascinating story of Cobb County’s aviation history – a story that changed our world. Fabulous aviation footage.

• Live music featuring the Memory Lane Jazz Band, Vintage Vocals, and special guest Katie Kasben

• Musical pre-concert at 6:30 PM; main event beginning at 7:00 PM.

• “After” party hosted by former Governor Roy and Marie Barnes at their home on Whitlock Avenue

• USO type program – wear your military and period dress. A fun evening of great memories.

• Earl Smith Strand Theatre on the Marietta Square. Ticketing information at or call 770-293-0080 and ask about “Hearts for Heroes”.

Good Deal/Bad Deal (Share a quick good deal or bad deal you have found – no commercials here!)

Hangar Flying (Share a bit of ole hangar flying with the net) :

Humor/Sobering or Fun (Share some “vulgarity free” humor with the net):

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THE YEAR 1909 (thanks Bob)

This will boggle your mind, I know it did mine!  

The year is 1909.  

One hundred years ago.  

What a difference a century makes!  

Here are some statistics for the Year 1909 :

************ ********* *********

The average life expectancy was  47 years.

Fuel for this car was sold in drug stores only 

Only 14 percent of the homes had a bathtub.

Only 8 percent of the homes had a telephone.

There were only 8,000 cars and only 144 miles

Of paved roads.

The maximum speed limit in most cities was 10 mph.

The tallest structure in the world was the   Eiffel  Tower!

The average wage in 1909 was 22 cents per hour.

The average worker made between $200 and $400 per year ..

A competent accountant could expect to earn $2000 per year,  

A dentist $2,500 per year, a veterinarian between $1,500 and $4,000 per year, and a mechanical engineer about $5,000 per year.

More than 95 percent of all births took place at HOME .

Ninety percent of all doctors had NO COLLEGE EDUCATION!

Instead, they attended so-called medical schools, many of which

Were condemned in the press AND the government as 'substandard. '

Sugar cost four cents a pound.

Eggs were fourteen cents a dozen.

Coffee was fifteen cents a pound.

Most women only washed their hair once a month, and used

Borax or egg yolks for shampoo.

Canada passed a law that prohibited poor people from

Entering into their country for any reason.

Five leading causes of death were:

1. Pneumonia and influenza  

2. Tuberculosis  

3. Diarrhea  

4. Heart disease  

5. Stroke

The American flag had 45 stars..

The population of  Las Vegas, Nevada, was only 30!!!!

Crossword puzzles, canned beer, and iced tea  Hadn't been invented yet.

There was no Mother's Day or Father's Day.

Two out of every 10 adults couldn't read or write and 

Only 6 percent of all Americans had graduated from high school..

                                                                     

Marijuana, heroin, and morphine were all available over the counter at the local corner drugstores. Back then pharmacists said, 'Heroin clears the complexion, gives buoyancy to the mind,regulates the stomach and bowels, and is, in fact, a perfect guardian of health'

( Shocking? DUH! )

Eighteen percent of households had at least  one full-time servant or domestic help..

There were about 230 reported murders in the ENTIRE    U.S.A.!  

Plus one more sad thought; 95 percent of the taxes we have now did not exist in 1909

I am now going to forward this to someone else without typing it myself. 

From there, it will be sent to others all over the WORLD - all in a matter of seconds!

Try to imagine what it may be like in another 100 years. 

IT STAGGERS THE MIND

What a difference 100 years makes! And, can you imagine?  I've been alive for over 60 -- of them

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

 NINE WORDS WOMEN USE (Thanks Lane, Men listen up!)

 (1) Fine: This is the word women use to end an argument when they are

 right and you need to shut up.

 (2) Five Minutes: If she is getting dressed, this means a half an hour.

 Five minutes is only five minutes if you have just been given five more

 minutes to watch the game before helping around the house.

 (3) Nothing: This is the calm before the storm. This means something, and

 you should be on your toes. Arguments that begin with nothing usually end

 in fine.

 (4) Go Ahead: This is a dare, not permission. Don't Do It!

 (5) Loud Sigh: This is actually a word, but is a non-verbal statement

 often misunderstood by men. A loud sigh means she thinks you are an idiot

 and wonders why she is wasting her time standing here and arguing with you

 about nothing. (Refer back to # 3 for the meaning of nothing.)

 (6) That's Okay:  This is one of the most dangerous statements a women can

 make to a man... That's okay means she wants to think long and hard before

 deciding how and when you will pay for your mistake.

 (7) Thanks: A woman is thanking you, do not question, or faint. Just say

 you're welcome. (I want to add in a clause here - This is true, unless she

 says 'Thanks a lot' - that is PURE sarcasm and she is not thanking you at

 all. DO NOT say 'you're welcome' . that will bring on a 'whatever').

 (8) Whatever : Is a woman's way of saying, "You're a jerk!"

 (9) Don't worry about it, I got it: Another dangerous statement, meaning

 this is something that a woman has told a man to do several times, but is

 now doing it herself. This will later result in a man asking 'What's

 wrong?' For the woman's response refer to # 3.

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

WELCOME TO TPA

(Terrorist-Proof Airlines)

We at TPA, Terrorist-Proof Airlines, are in the flying business!

We can absolutely guarantee no WALK-ON GUNS, KNIVES, BOX CUTTERS, SHOE-BOMBS or other weapons will ever be carried onto OUR FLIGHTS !

Book your next flight with TPA, the safest airline in the industry.

[pic]

Mark

Mark Sztanyo, PCN Dir

Pilot Communication Net

Contact the Net

Life on earth will soon be past, only what's done for Christ will last!

Serving the Delta community, and pilots (active and retired) and their families, including original Delta, and former: Northeast, Pan-Am, Western, NWA, Republic, North-Central, Southern Airways, Hughes- Airwest,  and all the Delta Connection carriers.

 

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