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The past month has been a good one for the 1855 club. I would like to thank the following brothers for increasing or renewing their 1855 contributions: John Wrightington,Dave Fraser,Tony Leggieri, Ramano Sprueil and Graham Smith. seth downs send message anchorage, ak - Thursday, May 07, 2009 at 14:22:06 (EDT) Hey guys. While I'm in the process of retiring from flying and going back to school I'm working at Kahuna's Bar and Grill on Seabreeze. Kahuna's is owned by Scott Spaulding (AHP) who many of you may know. Its a cool little bar in the old Robbie's at 530 Seabreeze. Scott is trying to get some Greeks to adopt Kahuna's as a hangout. I talked to him about putting up the letters if we can get a regular showing. We also talked about some possible discounts for Sigma Chi's. Currently we have free poker on Tuesdays and beerpong wends days starting tomorrow. We are also hoping to start up the mug club soon. Well hopefully you guys flying are doing better than some of us and those smart enough to get out get something better. Good luck guys and come see us at Kahuna's. (Patrick McGrath) <send email> Daytona Beach, - Tuesday, April 28, 2009 at 20:25:19 (EDT) your comment John Wrightington send message Dallas, TX USofA - Thursday, March 26, 2009 at 21:44:44 (EDT) Congratulations Brothers on carrying on the high standards and traditions of the Eta Iota Chapter of Sigma Chi for 38 consecutive years. We, the founders, are proud of all that you have accomplished and look forward to a strong and and meaningful future for Eta Iota thanks to your hard work and dedication. To the Eta Iota alumni - please help us with establishing a strong financial base for the future construction of a new fraternity house. I am sure you will find that your commitment to helping direct the chapter's future will be rewarding and bring back many of your happiest memories from your college years at Embry-Riddle. I hope to see all of you at the 40th Birthday Bash! Terry Owens Founding Consul, Class '71 Terry Owens <send email> Laguna Niguel, CA USA - Wednesday, March 18, 2009 at 11:20:12 (EDT) Birthday is next week!! March 27-28 Are you going to make it down? The brothers are on Spring Break this week, don't you want to escape the wife and kids for a couple days? Rooms are cheap in Daytona and so are flights! So tell the family you need to take off a couple days and come join the fun with these alumni: John Wrightington and several Florida alumni who will be stopping by the house... RSVP to me ASAP and we'll see you next week! James "Gassi" Ahrens '90 James Ahrens send message Merritt Island, FL - Wednesday, March 18, 2009 at 08:48:36 (EDT) your comment James Ahrens send message Merritt Island, FL - Wednesday, March 18, 2009 at 08:48:19 (EDT) Bros, Just relocated out here to Destin Fl, from Altlanta. If anyone passes through Ft Walton or Pensacola let me know. Pat drop me a line if you decide to head home. I am off to investigate Niceville to see if that had anything to do with Fejfar being...well....so "nice" ODonnell send message Destin, FL - Thursday, February 19, 2009 at 15:37:01 (EST) your comment John Wrightington send message Dallas, TX US - Saturday, February 07, 2009 at 13:22:30 (EST) Greetings, brothers. My name is Thaddeus Nicholls and I am a Sig alumni from the Gamma Kappa chapter at Utah State University. I was driving on Ridgewood noticed your house, so I stopped in to see if anyone was around. I didn't see anyone so I wasn't able to make contact and exchange grips with anyone, so I thought I would try to find you online. Anyhow, I have been living in New Smyrna Beach for about 6 months now, and I work at the Marine Discovery Center as a restoration project coordinator. I am interested in meeting some fellow Sigs in the area, so if you have some events coming up where I could come meet some of you guys or let me know when your meetings are and maybe I can swing in for a couple. I know that most chapters are busy with Derby Days and other philanthropic events throughout the year, but if your chapter is interested in doing some community work, the project I am in charge of at the Marine Discovery Center is heavily reliant on volunteer work. So if you have a few hours you would like to donate, it would help a brother out! No pressure, just let me know if you are interested. Anyhow, hope to hear back from you soon. Keep that Cross white! IHSV, Thaddeus Nicholls Bro's, Just wanted to thank the actives for the Christmas card. Good to see a concerted effort to keep the alumni in the loop! Keep up the hard work. For the rest of us, if you're out there making money (and not furghload) lets not forget the support we needed from the alumns when we were undergrads. Chances are it was another Brother that helped you get your job! Get out your check book or credit card and start donating $18 bucks a month. You can afford it and the house needs it! Spent New Years with Brothers Lowe, Barrois, Lanford, and O'Donnell in Atlanta... nothing has changed and our livers are just as stout as ever. If anyone is stopping through the Hilton Head/Savannah area, give me a call. IH, Mefesto Pat McKelvey send message SC - Monday, January 12, 2009 at 08:15:42 (EST) Bro's, Just wanted to thank the actives for the Christmas card. Good to see a concerted effort to keep the alumni in the loop! Keep up the hard work. For the rest of us, if you're out there making money (and not furghload) lets not forget the support we needed from the alumns when we were undergrads. Chances are it was another Brother that helped you get your job! Get out your check book or credit card and start donating $18 bucks a month. You can afford it and the house needs it! Spent New Years with Brothers Lowe, Barrois, Lanford, and O'Donnell in Atlanta... nothing has changed and our livers are just as stout as ever. If anyone is stopping through the Hilton Head/Savannah area, give me a call. IH, Mefesto Pat McKelvey send message SC - Monday, January 12, 2009 at 08:15:22 (EST) Outstanding job on the newsletter Brothers. Thank You. Guy Guy Ligon send message - Sunday, January 04, 2009 at 08:10:26 (EST) HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!! rEESE aGUILAR send message - Thursday, January 01, 2009 at 00:04:09 (EST) Great newsletter ... THIS is a great addition that has been missing for years. Even when it was done, it was NOTHING compared with this. Communication is the key here and this was a HUGE leap forward. The Christmas decorations are classic and even the drunks in Texas are impressed. John Wrightington send message Dallas, TX - Monday, December 29, 2008 at 14:40:59 (EST) Hey Bros, Getting furloughed again. Any pilot jobs out there? Brett Watrous send message - Thursday, December 04, 2008 at 14:14:33 (EST) Two more brothers have joined up with the 1855 club. I would like to thank brothers David Campbell '78, and Curt Kienast '01. On another note Brett Miller is heading up the housing committee and is looking for active volunteers looking to be involved in this time consuming and multifaceted task. Seth Downs send message Anchroage, AK USA - Wednesday, October 01, 2008 at 12:18:42 (EDT) You think it was a "coincidence" he was on his cell phone. There's a reason people don't want you to get in touch with them............ David Marino send message - Saturday, September 27, 2008 at 20:14:44 (EDT) What up brothers. I have not posted ever but I wanted to give a shout-out to anyone that may be in San Diego. Brother McKelvey recently got in touch with me while he was in San Diego and we met up for beers. Also, I recently spent 2 days in West Palm Beach because of Hurricane Ike going through Houston and totally missed out on getting together with brother Fernando Meillon. Thankfully on a jumpseat out of West Palm to ATL the captain announced the name of the first officer (Fernando) I went back to the cockpit (because he was on the phone upon my initial introduction to the Captain and ignored me) and reintroduced myself to the cockpit crew especially Fernando and touched base and exchanged numbers to meet up again in the future. We have brothers from our chapter all over the US and it's important to keep in touch, for one, making a painful layover so much better, and for two, reconnecting with bros from our past. If anyone is in San Diego, feel free to get in touch! Brother Chris Marrero '99 619 804-6279 marrero11@hotmail.com Continental Airlines FO Chris Marrero send message San Diego, CA United States - Sunday, September 21, 2008 at 20:44:04 (EDT) Brothers- Not a lot of time as I am very busy. The unholy trifecta of my travels is now complete...I am in Afganistan. Can't say where. Going to be here for about a year. I'll send some pix and other info later, but meanwhile, back to work! -In Hoc Big Lar Larry Hesterberg send message Afghanistan - Saturday, September 13, 2008 at 04:41:00 (EDT) The least I could do. Hey Seth, what's the word on Sarah Palin up in Alaska? In regards to pending housing issues, here are my two cents: My general feeling would be to opt for a complete overhaul/remodel or new construction on our current site and bypass the school's Greek Row plan. Two main reasons: 1. Sentiment and pride. 2. Independence and experience. There would be no replacing the educational experience obtained when a group of 18-22 year olds are handed the day-to-day responsibility and management of a property and all that comes with that. Many of the character building and leadership opportunities go away when we choose to essentially write a rent check to ERAU every month. That being said, I have no doubt that this path would be much more difficult than simply joining the "Greek Row". But aren't the right choices typically the more difficult ones to make? I believe the Articles of Incorporation state our purpose is to include fostering the brotherhood of Sigma Chi, not just simply to provide housing. Meaning, our decisions should contemplate more than just providing a place of shelter for the Actives. In the long run, if we end up "off campus" and all other organizations go with ERAU, will that hinder our recruiting? Perhaps, but I would suggest that it may also lead to better quality Pledges, ones that are seeking a unique organization that now has something that none of the others could obtain or maintain. Finally, I also realize that either path requires a lot of work and time on the part of our alumni volunteers. It is all to easy to simply raise objections once every few years about how things should be done, but with little participation in the decision making process. While these are my opinions, I have to trust that our leadership team is proceeding with due diligence, regardless of choice. Unless you get involved in the housing committee, you need to accept their decisions and support it for the good of the Chapter. Gassi, I do have a question. The communications you have made to us seem to indicate that much progress has been made in regards to working with the school and the development of the Greek Row proposal. All the time and resources that ERAU has spent on this has been predicated on what? Are they under the assumption that we are "IN" as long as ERAU picks up their end of the bargain? Have you put us in a position such that if we don't do the Greek Row that we have burned a bridge with ERAU? That's all for now. Maybe Hurricane Hannah will make our decision easier by wiping out the House and we can get it replaced with only a $5K deductible.... Mike Gehman, 1993 Alpha Tau Pledge Class Mike Gehman send message Pennsburg, PA - Sunday, August 31, 2008 at 10:24:12 (EDT) I just returned from 2 weeks in sunny New Mexico, helping my wife get settled in with her new job at UNM, to find that 3 brothers had joined the 1855 club- Mike Gehman, John Spilotro and Howard Hamilton. Thanks Brothers! seth Downs send message anchorage, AK USA - Wednesday, August 27, 2008 at 02:16:32 (EDT) Sent to Gassi.... Gassi, I was down there in April, and from talking to the actives that came out (I took about 6 of them to lunch) I don't see the enthusiasm from them in moving out of the house. That house is what ties generations of Eta Iota Sigs past and present together. It's a big reason that alumni go back to visit. You take that away and you're going to completely change the dynamics in the relationship between old and new. I know I personally would be crushed to see the house go. When I flew in, that was one of the first things I did, was call the house and start looking for a brother to come pick me up and take me over to check out the old place. As far as trusting the University, you're right, I (we) don't trust them. Not as far as I can throw them. I've said it before, I'll say it until I die... our house being off campus is a huge bonus for us. Paying the University rent???? Are they kidding? We've already proven that buying the place is more beneficial, because you can eventually OWN it. Rent paid to the Univeristy (especially by alumni) is going to infuriate a lot of people, especially myself. The school has pretty much given up on asking me for donations because they know I'll tell them to go fornicate themselves... however I continue to donate $20 bucks a month to the chapter. I've done so in order to contribute my small part in the future of the chapter, which include the future of 520 S. Ridgewood. Delta Chi is on board because their alumni have screwed over the progam. They own an empty lot now. Lambda Chi is on board because they can't seem to get their own house. A big part of the identity of this chapter is that house we OWN and I do not want to see it go. The cost of rebuilding the house, if we wanted to go that extreme would not be in the millions... we do however have a lot of value in the land to borrow against, plus the cash we have in the bank, and what we are putting away not making a mortgage payment anymore. There are options. We've got the borrowing and spending power to do great things with the house, not give up on it. IH, Pat McKelvey "Mefesto" c/o '01 Mefesto send message Hilton Head, SC - Saturday, August 09, 2008 at 11:22:24 (EDT) I got Gassi's email last night RE: Greek Housing, while I am trying to reserve judgment until we see some actual plans at first blush it sounds like another horrible idea. I appreciate all the efforts of Gassi and House Corps however this does not seem to be a viable solution. The university is becoming more diverse (actually getting some women) and growing with degree programs. Why would we move into a house that is capable of housing LESS people then we currently can? Are we not trying to grow the active numbers? What about room for Chapter meetings and parties (lest we forget we are a social fraternity). Perhaps I am way off base but sounds like we may be going from so so to worse here. Fix the existing house let the others test this little plan...if...if...it even happens. If Daytona Beach continues is regentrifricaton then that will certainly spread to Ridgewood given its close proximity to the river and beach. Why did we purchase the property from Wright? Did this purchase increase the overall value? If so by how much? I just think its better to stay put. OD ODonnell send message Atlanta, GA - Friday, August 08, 2008 at 07:53:25 (EDT) Last weekend I was able to take an F-18 into Daytona for a show/tell with the ROTC Midshipmen, and I wanted to thank the actives that came and picked me up. House still looks the same, pool is still clear and green, Hooters still has a bunch of waitresses looking for a meal ticket out of town! Mefesto send message - Thursday, June 19, 2008 at 23:56:09 (EDT) House Corp Update: President's Report - James "Gassi" Ahrens As I type this newsletter myself, Robert Tetrault (Secretary), and Roger Moody (Chapter Advisor) are in Dallas for a Sigma Chi House Corporation Officer Training Seminar. During this 3 day weekend we will be covering topics including:
On Sunday we will be sitting down with Mark Burroughs and Grand Trustee Chairman Bruce Casner to formulate more details to our Flight Plan to 40 and our goal of a new house. More on this in a minute... Meantime we celebrated our 37th Birthday in April, had our first Alumni Work Weekend in January where we helped get the house in shape the the new semester, and have been busy making a few more room repairs. It seems like a never ending repair job which is why we are focusing on the future. Flight Plan To 40 Everyone keeps asking for details on Flight Plan to 40 so let me clear some things up. First of all it's a focus on our future to get everyone involved in the health and welfare of our beloved chapter. The first step is a goal I set at the last Birthday Party is to sign up enough brothers in the 1855 Club to raise $100,000 by the 40th Birthday Party. We need to dramatically increase our fundraising if we're going to build up our capital funds while maintaining our current property. The next step is to start a housing committee to address what are future house needs will be. If you are interested in participating on the housing committee please send me an email james@aviatorstudios.com with details of why you want to be on the comittee, what your experience or contribution to the organization would be, and a commitment to participate in meetings, telecons, etc... Part of what the comittee will analize are options on what it would take to build a house, buy property or use existing lot, costs, etc... Embry-Riddle's Commitment to Greek Row We've all heard it before, but I've been working hard with the university to lead the effort towards greek housing on campus. Well our efforts are now paying off! The school initially thought of putting greek housing on a small parcel in a dorm/apartment area off campus, but it did not meet any of our requirements. After discussing this with the VP of Planning and Construction he went back to the drawing board and found a spot for Greeks on campus near the Student Village on campus. The President of Embry-Riddle Dr. John Johnson, who I have also been working with, is taking this proposal now to the Board of Trustees of the University for approval. Treasurer's report - Seth Downs The good news is the mortgage is paid off. However, as many of you remember, the latest mortgage was for major renovations completed in 1989. That was 18 years ago and the house is certainly showing its age. In the last 4 years we have invested over eighty five thousand dollars in repairs, security enhancements and the purchase of the back corner lot known as the Country Club. Do to these actions we have been running a deficit for the last 4 years. We have also relied on the generous donations of alumni, some of whom are twenty 1855 club members that have been consistently donating for the past 8 years, month in and month out. Going forward though we will be able to operate on the income generated from rent. I believe we will have enough in the budget to cover normal operating expenses and the necessary repairs to the house that arise, baring any major renovations. I look forward to seeing your continued generosity increasing our savings, thus expanding our options as we formulate our chapters future together. If any of you have any questions about House Corporation finances don't hesitate to call on me. Fund Raising Report - Rich Schooley Brothers, the 1855 club has been an excellent fundraiser over the years. Unfortunately the participation has dropped off. Many bank accounts have closed; wives ask who is the 1855 club? And others just lost interest. As part of the new fund raising initiative one of my goals is to improve communications between House Corp and the alumni. We believe that your connection with the chapter, and Sigma Chi, in general, is best served by keeping you aware of what is going on at the house, and with your fellow alumni. I don’t think anyone wants to be treated like a mushroom (kept in the dark and fed shit). I plan to return to a paper newsletter and an occasional post card. You should know what is going on at the chapter good or bad in a timely manner. Did you know the actives have actually been winning Greek Week and by the way the house is paid for? We are working with Seth Downs to build a capital fund. Eta Iota’s future may be a renovation, a rebuild or moving to Greek Row. What ever happens we need to be prepared with capital and the support of all the alumni. We now have 30 alumni participating in the 1855 club generating approx $7,500 per year. Gassi (James Ahrens) wants to raise $100,000 by the 40th Birthday, a lofty yet attainable goal. If we add 50 brothers per year for the next 3 years we can build the capital fund as follows: End of year one 75 participants 22,500 in annual flow total raised $22,500 The 1855 Club is a monthly donation we can process in several ways. Monies can be drafted from your checking or savings account, you can pay as a monthly automated bill from your bank or we can even do PayPal. Several brothers make a lump sum annual contribution. Please consider joining the 1855 Club. There is a membership level for every budget:
Your support is needed. Call me, Rich Schooley, at 912-409-2015 or email me at r.schooley@yahoo.com I thank you in advance for your support and look forward to catching up with each one of you well before we drink a beer at the 40th. Final Words I want to thank Jim Patterson and Robert Pacheco for their service to the House Corp and welcome to Dave Elert our newest Trustee. Also a big thanks to Chris Chapman and Brett Miller for all their hard work over the past 3 years on the house! More details on the House Corp meeting can be found in the minutes on the www.etaiota.org website. James "Gassi" Ahrens '90 send message Merritt Island, FL - Sunday, June 08, 2008 at 13:32:56 (EDT) Roger, Thanks for your service. In Hoc Rich Schooley Rich Schooley send message - Tuesday, June 03, 2008 at 22:50:42 (EDT) Brothers, I'm getting ready to embark on another 15 month deployment to Iraq! Looking forwarding to leading my 10 x Blackhawks and company to kick a little ass and hopefully closeout a victory for the home team. If anyone is interested in having an American Flag flown in any one of my aircraft let me know, and I'll fly the flag during our missions in Iraq and have a certificate sent back with it displaying the locations it flew and the crew that flew the flag in support of our freedoms at home. In Hoc. Roger Hughey Roger Hughey send message Killeen, TX Bell - Wednesday, May 28, 2008 at 20:35:01 (EDT) Yeah Chris, While you were holed up in some gucci hotel in Milan I was passed out in the chapter room - living the Eta Iota B-day experience. Thanks for your donation and welcome back to the 1855 Club. seth downs send message anchorage, AK USA - Monday, May 19, 2008 at 11:53:45 (EDT) Sorry I missed B-day this year, hope everyone had a great time! For those of you that use Flickr, I noticed there were no Sigma Chi groups so I started one myself, feel free to add Sig related pictures to: http://www.flickr.com/groups/sigmachialumni/ In Hoc, Chris Chris Nevins send message Humble, TX USA - Sunday, May 18, 2008 at 22:10:32 (EDT) I would like to thank Jere Thome and Graham Smith for their recent donations to the 1855 Club. They used the Pay Pal button on our website and earned themselves some FF miles. It had been so long since someone had donated through Pay Pal, I was wondering if it even worked any more. Also with the mortgage paid off the 1855 Club is truly a savings vehicle for our future house (wether it be a new or renovated 520 S. Ridgewood or ERAU Greek row). IH, Seth BTW it has not snowed in Anchorage for over a week! seth downs send message Anchorage, AK USA - Tuesday, May 06, 2008 at 03:46:19 (EDT) It was not the biggest birthday ever, but it was still fun to see old friends and meet a few actives. Rob Jordan shows up after 17 years and now he is going to retire in 179 days, whos counting. Good luck and hope to see you more often than the locusts. I took my 5 year old daughter and she thought the house was beautiful. I guess my 44 year old eyes don’t always see the big picture. Heck im just happy its still there and debt free. In Hoc, Rich Rich Schooley send message - Monday, April 21, 2008 at 19:48:55 (EDT) Just a quick reminder that next week, Apr 18-20, is Birthday Party weekend. If you plan on coming down please send in your check this week or call myself or Nick Wiess (B-day chairman) 224-659-0734 to let us know if you're coming. Friday – Mortgage Burning BBQ 5pm-9pm @ the House After Party 9pm - ??? @ Red Tails Saturday – House Corporation Meeting Noon – 2pm @ Auditorium on ERAU Campus Birthday Party Dinner 6pm – 11pm @ Daytona USA Sunday – Golf Tournament Noon – 5pm @ LPGA Chapter Meeting 7pm – 9pm @ the House Cost: $100/Alumni, $50/Guest, $75/Golf If you can't make it for the whole weekend and live in Florida please at least come to the House Corporation meeting Noon on Saturday April 19th, at the Auditorium on the Embry-Riddle Campus located next to the Library. See ya soon! In Hoc, James "Gassi" Ahrens '90 206-356-4850 President - Eta Iota House Corporation James "Gassi" Ahrens '90 send message Cocoa Bach, FL - Monday, April 07, 2008 at 09:11:49 (EDT) Happy Birthday Eta Iota!!!! You don't look a day over 37! Reese Aguilar send message Kensington, MD - Thursday, March 06, 2008 at 10:11:06 (EST) Just a quick update for you'all... 37th Birthday Party Alumni Work Weekend In Hoc,
Please visit <info> to check your on-line database entry for up to date information. Please consider donating to the Eta Iota House Corp Capital improvement fund, the Sigma Chi Foundation (c/o Eta Iota), or the active chapter. All this & more on www.etaiota.org James "Gassi" Ahrens '90 send message Cocoa Beach, FL - Monday, February 11, 2008 at 08:25:02 (EST) so what's up with fund raising? birthday party date? mortgage burning? john wrightington send message georgetown, grand cayman - Sunday, January 27, 2008 at 19:29:10 (EST) Sorry email is mike.odonnell@marsh.com Mike ODonnell send message - Wednesday, January 23, 2008 at 10:32:51 (EST) Hey gents, going to try and post this on the jobs page but have a client looking for a well qualified Brazilla,and/or CRJ captian. Would be flying for NASCAR driver/team owner Michael Waltrip. Aircraft are based in Statesville right outside Charlotte NC. Currenlty operate CRJ 200, EMB-120, KA-300. Drop me an email at mike.odonell@marsh.com or call me at 678-923-4457 if interested. Mike ODonnell send message Atlanta, Ga - Wednesday, January 23, 2008 at 10:30:34 (EST) Rich- Looks like it'll be you and me down there next weekend. I'll be coming in late from Orlando. I hope to be at the Ocean Deck by midnight Friday night! Hopefully I'll see more of you there! Later- Big Lar Larry A. Hesterberg send message Alexandria, VA USA - Friday, January 04, 2008 at 09:54:39 (EST) I plan to attend the Alumni/active house clean up. I hope to see several others there to help me drink an adult beverage or two. RICH Rich Schooley send message - Wednesday, December 26, 2007 at 18:00:36 (EST) Merry EX-Mas & Happy Sig Year! A Holiday Update From Your Eta Iota House Corporation I hope during this Holiday Season you get a chance to spend time with brothers near you or call a pledge brother you haven't talked to in years. You can find them here: www.etaiota.org and if you want, leave a message on the guest book or update your information in the address book. Alumni Work Weekend Jan 12-13 Eta Iota House Corporation Mortgage Paid Off In February, Mortgage Burning Birthday Party In the meantime Embry-Riddle President Dr. John Johnson has directed his cabinet to evaluate some land near the University for Greek Housing. We are expecting more details after the holidays and will update you when we find out more information. Final Note With that, on behalf of the officers and trustees, I'd like like to wish you and your families a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! I would also like to thank those brothers that have served or are still serving overseas to defend our country. We deeply appreciate your dedication and sacrifices so we can live our lives in freedom, because without freedom we would not have our beloved Sigma Chi! In Hoc, James "Gassi" Ahrens send message Cocoa Beach, FL USA - Sunday, December 23, 2007 at 16:59:48 (EST) Happy Thanksgiving everybody (where ever you may be tonight)! Chris Nevins send message Humble, TX USA - Thursday, November 22, 2007 at 19:50:15 (EST) Inability to go to homecoming is fairly commonplace with most of us I really think we need to be very careful that we aren't allowing ourselves to be guided by 'ERAU-centric' mindset on a fratnerity row concept. Independence makes us stronger. Building in the back with a higher ground level is a very plausible option. Wrightington send message Georgetown, Cayman Islands - Sunday, November 18, 2007 at 11:00:46 (EST) In the spirit the post below... I'll be launching my own "Flight Plan to .40" as soon as I get home. Feel free to join me at the house on random weekends. I don't see anything about a pool or Tiki Hut below, this disturbs me. Come on you cheap bastards, start shelling out the cash. Or at least show up and lets buy the actives some beer. (Nothing else to due in the Gulf of Oman other than fly and post on here) Mefesto send message Afghanistan - Wednesday, November 14, 2007 at 12:24:39 (EST) In the spirit the post below... I'll be launching my own "Flight Plan to .40" as soon as I get home. Feel free to join me at the house on random weekends. I don't see anything about a pool or Tiki Hut below, this disturbs me. Come on you cheap bastards, start shelling out the cash. Or at least show up and lets buy the actives some beer. (Nothing else to due in the Gulf of Oman other than fly and post on here) Mefesto send message Afghanistan - Wednesday, November 14, 2007 at 12:19:34 (EST) In the spirit the post below... I'll be launching my own "Flight Plan to .40" as soon as I get home. Feel free to join me at the house on random weekends. I don't see anything about a pool or Tiki Hut below, this disturbs me. Come on you cheap bastards, start shelling out the cash. Or at least show up and lets buy the actives some beer. (Nothing else to due in the Gulf of Oman other than fly and post on here) Mefesto send message Afghanistan - Wednesday, November 14, 2007 at 12:13:53 (EST) In the spirit the post below... I'll be launching my own "Flight Plan to .40" as soon as I get home. Feel free to join me at the house on random weekends. I don't see anything about a pool or Tiki Hut below, this disturbs me. Come on you cheap bastards, start shelling out the cash. Or at least show up and lets buy the actives some beer. (Nothing else to due in the Gulf of Oman other than fly and post on here) Mefesto send message Afghanistan - Wednesday, November 14, 2007 at 12:11:32 (EST) Just a quick note to keep you up to date on what's happening with the Eta Iota House Corporation & the House. Sunday's Meeting Flight Plan to 40 The brothers in attendance gave their feedback including presenting a new by-law to have all house corp members vote on the sale of the house. They also said we should move forward with 2 options: we buy land or the University comes through with property. We will present these changes and more details at the 37th Birthday. Meantime here is James' presentation: Flight Plan to 40 How do we get there? What Happens Next? Current Stuff Alumni Work Weekend 37th Birthday Party Brotherhood Survey Welcome New Brothers Thanks for your time and involvement... In Hoc, Remember to visit www.etaiota.org for House Corp, Active, & National links, as well as an on-line directory & a sign-up for the house corp & active email list. Please visit to check your on-line database entry for up to date information. Please consider donating to the Eta Iota House Corp Capital improvement fund, the Sigma Chi Foundation (c/o Eta Iota), or the active chapter. All this & more on www.etaiota.org This email was sent via the Eta Iota Mass Mailer, to those listed in our email directory. For information on this mailing or to be removed from future email reply to Bill Palmer at bill@etaiota.org. James "Gassi" Ahrens '90 send message Cocoa Beach, FL USA - Monday, November 12, 2007 at 23:15:51 (EST) It was great spending the weekend at the house! Nice to see that nothing has really changed. Well... except the "talent" :P IN HOC Reese '89 Reese send message - Monday, November 12, 2007 at 14:52:04 (EST) After reading the plan below, I still can't believe we're taking the school at thier word. I love to say it, F___ 'EM! We've got a good thing, and the school had had enough chances to welch on promises. New President, same song and dance. If they want to get our attention, take action. Then maybe we can talk. I personally don't care what they want. When I lived at the house, it was a reprieve from the school. Being away from the campus and thier "rule" was one of the greatest things about the house. Having a house is a great rush tool, having a house with a pool is just epic. I'm pretty sure Turfitt lost his virginity in that thing. I still can't believe alums are willing to let all that go. The chapter does just fine without the schools help, why give them an in? If you need more alumni support to keep the property, I'll be home from deployment in a few months, and living in South Carolina. I'm fulling willing to offer up my spare time hanging out at the house, drinking beer, and chasing underage ass with the actives. Crank up the tunes, break out the beer, sit by the pool and admire how great the chapter is. I'll see you there. Knocking it down, and building bigger and better is the only way to go in my opinion. Whoever is in charge of the 1855 club, email me and up my monthly donation. 'Festo Pat McKelvey send message Beaufort , SC USA - Saturday, October 27, 2007 at 15:05:52 (EDT) We got a lot of feedback from you over the last couple months and I wanted to give you an update on what's happening with the house. Current Status Due to the responses from a mojority of the brothers to plan a transition to a new house we notified the realtors that expressed interest in the house property that we were going to wait a couple years before selling. A few brothers expressed opinions that the real estate market is down right now and we should wait until it's back up - buy low and sell high. However I'd like to remind you the market that is down right now is the housing real estate market, not the commercial real estate market. After having a survey of the property done and an appraisal we now know our property is currently worth $800,000 In the meantime I had a good 45 minute visit with the new President of Embry-Riddle Dr. John Johnson. He wants to help us get off Ridgewood and is currently looking at a couple different options for us. He also assured us the University would help us get discounted financing through the university. Here is his email response: "I enjoyed visiting with you. As I indicated, I am supportive of your chapter’s goal of building a new home and relocate closer to campus. I have been working to find some land that would be appropriate for the house and we are discussing several possibilities. Your 2011 target seems quite reasonable to me. Let’s work together going forward and make this happen." I also talked for 1.5 hrs with Dan Montplaisir the VP of Institutional Advancement, who also is a Lambda Chi and worked at their national HQ. He is in charge of alumni relations and fund raising for the university. Both are eager to help us with our goal of a new house. The Plan At a high level the plan goes like this: Host a new house committee meeting at Homecoming Nov 9-10, payoff the mortgage in February, have a big mortgage burning party at the next birthday in March/April, and officially launch Flight Plan to Forty - the fund raising campaign and construction of a new Eta Iota chapter house by the 40th Birthday Party. I have already asked a few experienced brothers to help us get going including Grand Trustee Mark Burroughs, Local Real Estate Attorney Tom Hart, and our own Mitch Nimey who has extensive experience in commercial real estate, and of course Fund Raising Chairman Rich Schooley, Chapter Advisor Roger Moody, and other members of house corp and the active chapter. If you are coming down for Homecoming I would like to invite you to attend the Flight Plan to Forty committee meeting. And you want to be involved we'd appreciate the help. The meeting will take place Saturday Nov 10th at noon at the house. The chapter will be having initiation that the morning at the school and I'm sure you'd like to re-live the experience. Any questions drop me an email or give me a call. In Hoc, James "Gassi" Ahrens '90 send message Cocoa Beach, FL - Monday, October 15, 2007 at 08:59:59 (EDT) ... and if we do that, I'll give the money from the Country Club back to the House Corporation (1/2 if we build back on current property, all if we keep the main house intact and build to the back off that) Something to think about wrightington send message Georgetown, Cayman Islands - Saturday, October 13, 2007 at 16:15:29 (EDT) good idea ... BUT Why not build up the elevation in the back and build a new housing structure FIRST in two or three different construction phases and gradually move Brothers into the new area, demolish a wing of the house, build up another new area, demolish another wing, build up the final stage and then either tear down the main house OR preserve that and have that become the legacy of the past (the main house structure was always in better shape than the rest). Keep the pool at current location (that's a draw at rush and should be preserved). Wrightington send message Georgetown, Cayman Islands - Thursday, October 11, 2007 at 07:35:24 (EDT) If I'm reading correctly, the mortgage is finally paid off, but the house is in a state of disrepair. How about using the money that had previously been going to the mortgage to repair the house? If the house is in such bad shape that it is deemed beyond repair (Looked in as good of shape as ever when I was there last month), then another idea...... Knock it down! Next birthday, sell sledgehammers for a couple of hundred dollars a piece, get a few kegs, and decades worth of brothers tear the thing down. Then use the proceeds as the seed money to start immediate construction on the land that we now finally own. Free demolition, New house, Great party. We have a good thing there. School sponsored Greek row cedes too much authority to the University Administration and the skipping record of promises/proposals on the subject from them has gotten old over the years. Of all the organizations in the history of this school, we are the only group that has been able to consistently handle the challenges and responsibilities associated with having our own house. All others have failed. I am wholeheartedly against selling the House and following them down the path of failure. Especially considering that after all the hard work and all the years, we will soon own the thing! Selling the House and believing empty promises about a Greek Row would be the biggest mistake the chapter has made since letting Cassino in. Hammond send message Seattle, WA - Saturday, October 06, 2007 at 19:14:47 (EDT) interesting, I am always trying to find ways to disprove I lived in the house and now someone is trying to document that they actually lived in the house. Wrightington send message Georgetown, Cayman Islands - Wednesday, October 03, 2007 at 20:34:04 (EDT) What's up bros? I have a problem: I need to show proof that I lived at the house in '99 and 2000, and was wondering if you still have a copy of my signed lease? I have no documents of living there on file (we dumped all that stuff in our move 2 yrs ago). Any help would be appreciated. Thanks. Hope everyone is doing well. In hoc. Tony Leggieri send message Taneytown, MD USA - Wednesday, October 03, 2007 at 12:36:30 (EDT) What's up bros? I have a problem: I need to show proof that I lived at the house in '99 and 2000, and was wondering if you still have a copy of my signed lease? I have no documents of living there on file (we dumped all that stuff in our move 2 yrs ago). Any help would be appreciated. Thanks. Hope everyone is doing well. In hoc. Tony Leggieri send message Taneytown, MD USA - Wednesday, October 03, 2007 at 12:36:01 (EDT) Bro's! Whats up from the sunny Persian Gulf?!?! Life on board the USS Enterprise continues to suck as we troll Lake Iran for Hoffa onboard Satan's Cruise ship. It's hotter than a preacher at boys choir practice here, I'm sweating like a whore in church with a $100 trick outside, and we're racking up combat time like herpes at the AFN awards. I'm actually writing looking for brothers that may work at either Raytheon or Cessna. I've got a shit hot Hornet Avionics Tech that works for me, who is retiring and looking for employment in the mid-west at either company. If anyone can give me a contact to put him in touch with, I'd appreciate it. In the meantime I'll do my best to blow all of your money in the form of tax free pay, and 50K #'s of gas every flight. Hope everyone's doing good! Can you believe Sperbeck has a kid? I heard she came out with a fat dip in, and immediatley pulled Tim's hair. Pat McKelvey send message Persian Gulf, Hell - Friday, September 28, 2007 at 03:45:24 (EDT) I'll take out the trash when you spell my name right!!!!! Hesterberg? Hesterburg? Hestarbarg? Hesterburger? Larry Biddle send message Virginia Beach, VA United States - Saturday, September 22, 2007 at 01:06:42 (EDT) In case you were wondering, Letterman was there to have a building named after him. John "Chewy" Williams send message - Monday, September 10, 2007 at 16:23:09 (EDT) My youger brother (Ball State '94) got this from his chapter today. Thought it was pretty cool so I wanted to share it. Sounds like they worry about their house too. In hoc, Chewy Brothers, For the record, Brother David Letterman stopped by the Fraternity with President Dr. Jo Ann Gora this past Friday. I'm proud to tell you they were both swept off their feet on how beautiful the house looked. Brother Letterman was welcomed by a banner welcoming him back and Jo Ann had a sigh of relief from what she told me. Apparently, when Letterman walked off his plane, he said there were only two places he wanted to go. 1. Was the new football stadium and 2. was the Sigma Chi Fraternity. Dr. Gora was apparently scared to death on how the house was going to look saying, "she didn't know if guys would be walking around in their underwear with beer laying around," and when she saw it, she absolutely raved to all of us. Brother Letterman was honored the formal was dedicated to him and then proceeded to tell a few stories. He had his wife/girlfriend next to him, who was wearing his badge, were he said, "I put my badge on my sweetheart that way she didn't have any trouble getting in," with everyone chuckling after the comment. Furthermore, he walked the line of each one of us, slipped us the grip, and said "It's good to be home, In Hoc guys!" I wanted to let all of you know that our most prestigious alumni and the President of the University walked into a sparkling and were greeted respectively from our men. Please make sure you reach out to all the undergraduates and commend them on their preparation of this surprising visit. Not to rub this in, but, on a personal note, It was truly an honor to slip David Letterman the grip. In Hoc, TJ John "Chewy" Williams send message Indianapolis, IN - Monday, September 10, 2007 at 16:06:32 (EDT) I'm not sure what all the argument is about. I sold the house in 99 when I left. I sold it to Megabucks Mesteller when he still had money. Ray Pyon <send email> - Tuesday, September 04, 2007 at 09:41:16 (EDT) I believe you were the one bringing in and taking out the 'trash'; Larry was just observing ... John Wrightington send message Georgetown, Cayman Islands - Sunday, September 02, 2007 at 23:13:55 (EDT) Big Lar never took out the trash when it was his turn....... Brian Hoefig send message - Sunday, September 02, 2007 at 13:19:37 (EDT) if I had a dime for every beer Larry Hesterberg has had we could build a new house in the back, wall in the entire propoerty, keep the existing house as a frontal facade, repay our national debt, buy out Al Qaeda, solve global warming, put a man on Mars, and (more importantly), buy J's Island Patio back Wrightington send message Georgetown, Grand Cayman - Saturday, August 25, 2007 at 18:37:35 (EDT) Brothers- Now that I'm back from Sudan and have reliable internet access, I'd like to put in my opionion (especially since I am the one Wrightington mentioned (i.e. 9-10 years)). I cannot see any reason to sell the house at this time. Of course the House is a hole! No matter what we as alumni do, ultimately we are relying on guys fresh out of high school to take care of a huge house. Mistakes and errors will be made and the House will suffer decay. As alumni (or "responsible adults"...hahahaha...excuse me), we should be responsible for major repairs and upgrades, as we have in the past. Also, what is the exact reason for the major speed which seems to be occurring to move out. Crime has ALWAYS been a problem (live there over Christmas break sometime), but we have always found a fix to keep any major crime out. So don't give me the decay/crime reasons to move. ESPECIALLY don't give me the "ERAU promises to build us a Greek Row :)" line of BS. I was at ERAU for far too long and in Daytona longer to trust ANYTHING the university (small u) tells me. For OVER 15 YEARS ERAU has told us of the vision for a Greek Row. Let me tell you something...it ain't gonna happen! The best the university (small u) is going to do for the Greeks is give them some floors in an old dorm unit (see Jacksonville University among others) and call it "Greek Tower" or some gay name like that. Until there is a suitable replacement house (small h) found to replace the House (big H), we should continue to entertain offers, but NOT COMMIT. There is no recruitment tool better at our disposal than the House. Hell, even as an alum, I show people pictures of the House and they can't believe that I was that lucky to live there. Frankly, I can't believe it either. Finally, I agree completely with all of the people on this site that say that the largest amount of alumni possible should be involved in the vote, whenever it is, as to whether to sell or not. It will be a contentious meeting no matter what the majority wants, but ALL interested parties will be able to make their views known and, at the end, even though there will always be someone who is dissatisfied and upset, but at least their views WILL be heard. This is, no matter what, a very emotional issue. Well, that's enough for now. I am off to have a drink even though it is 1130, but I am on leave, so I am going to do it, well, because I can! Later Bros! In Hoc- Big Lar Larry A. Hesterberg send message Alexandria, VA USA! - Wednesday, August 22, 2007 at 11:23:02 (EDT) Don't get me wrong, I have no emotional attachment to the house or the property itself. In fact, my honest opinion is that it has been a lawsuit waiting to happen for years now. However, it did serve as the place where the memories I am so fond of were played out. So the fact still remains, you need a place to build those memories and create those bonds. To quote Brother O'Donnell; "The party is wherever we are Baby!" Or stated another way, the Brotherhood makes the place a home/house, not the other way around. I am confident that when the time is right and we have a another place to go to, (or at least a plan of how and when we are getting there) actives an alumni alike will be able build new memories and renew those bonds wherever Eta Iota calls home. Just give me an address, I'll be there, 'cause the party is wherever we are Baby. ;-) (D-DUB) <send email> - Sunday, August 05, 2007 at 16:01:42 (EDT) I would also submit that while Ridgewood is a hole...what other neighborhood is going to put up with our antics? Ride the wave until its all pertied up then sell at the top. I like the idea of a wall...schweeet....BB gun and water ballon turrets and guard posts at the corners we can put stippers in at parties! ODonnell send message - Sunday, July 29, 2007 at 20:47:03 (EDT) Having been neutral on this, I'm now leaning against selling the house. Frankly, as the faces change, the need for continuity to keep us all together is based more on the house. Let's face it, Embry Riddle isn't the reason many of us stayed the 4/5 years (9 or 10 for some), it was the Fraternity, the house, the belching/farting dogs and water balloons. Sit on the property through this current housing slump and optimize when we can (IF we want to). Use the new resources to build a wall around the property and secure the individual rooms. Just my opinion Wrightington send message Georgetown, Grand Cayman - Saturday, July 28, 2007 at 14:59:13 (EDT) I am glad to see these discussions and comments. I agree that the best policy is buying low, and selling high, but understand that sometimes you have to sell when you have to sell, and you hope the move is advantageous for you in the long run... Why is it thought that we must act now? I also agree that the house has been maintained in accordance with Slum Lord 101, which is not how I would like to see something I own maintained. (Don’t get me started on window units...) I like the idea of a transition plan. Do we have an immediate need to sell? Is it thought that we'd better take what we can get, or we'll take a big loss in the future? If so, how is this fact / opinion "proven" or validated? I remember when the City of Daytona Beach basically condemned the house, and we had to pull together and fix the problems. Are we hoping to leave quickly to avoid our exposure to this? (These problems always seem to arise periodically, but are only a problem when we have systematically avoided fixing things properly. Do any of you live this way? (I'm not talking about cleaning the garage; I'm talking about roof, walls, major waterline leaks...) I put some things off, but when things break, I fix them better than they were before. We have failed in properly maintaining our home in Daytona. Yes home - not investment property, but home. We (vicariously), and our Sig family members live there. Moving forward, we need to really tighten up on that, and not put it off because of a future "bail out" plan: 1. The school, which has never shown any sign of doing what we'd like to see, has decided to reverse their long standing position, and consider a Greek row! Wow, I feel so much better now! 2. Sell the place and never fix anything because of fictitious "cost analysis studies" that "prove" we shouldn't repair things for the long term, and it will be cost effective, since the new owners will only raise the place anyway... 3. We'll sell the place and make so much money we can buy new property, design and build a new kick-ass house, and pat everyone on the back for such great leadership! (Maybe I just don't understand the world of High Finance either, because I've never understood, or have seen this work out very well... Like Airline Board's "Vision") Sorry for listing the scattered thoughts, but to summarize, why do we need to jump now, or is that what we are trying to do? Do we have an idea what the costs will be for starting a new project? Will we still sell if the money raised won't begin to cover the costs of a new place? Would it be beneficial to properly fix the old place, and continue to build equity and saving to fund the new project? I have sold a home and not moved into another place for a month and a half. With storage and hotel bills, it wasn't pretty, or recommended, and I live out of a suitcase most of the time with my job. It was "financially beneficial", but I could see the connection of the dots to the new place. It doesn't sound like we have any dots on the other side of the sale for the Daytona home. I see the Consul's point on this. I also agree it is a huge Rush Tool! I also agree that this should be a decision for the entire chapter. I don't think anyone would have made a decision on this without approval from a majority of House Corp. members, but if the by-laws don't require it, I think it should be so amended. Jeff Penn <send email> Fairfax, VA USA - Saturday, July 28, 2007 at 14:42:25 (EDT) Just out of curiosity sake what happened to the whole “buy the shack mans house” kick we were on? I didn’t see Ridgewood Ave on the last game of Monopoly I played but I seem to remember this being the flava of the 35th. Don’t know if we would collect the money every time the hookers rounded the lawyers lot but I think the BB gun was in the community chest. I am just wondering why we went from trying to buy in the height of the market to trying to sell in the bottom. I only spent a few years with our finance brothers but they taught, “buy low…sell high” before they let me handle the mail ODonnell send message - Saturday, July 28, 2007 at 01:04:38 (EDT) I could write a dissertation on this subject, but I will keep my feedback short and sweet. You don’t sell your house if you have not built or purchased a replacement…period. I think it goes without saying, but to do so would leave you homeless. I believe that Delta Chi did exactly what is proposed for analogous reasons, and I would be interested in hearing what their actives and alumni have to say about that decision in hindsight. To sell your house without at least a solid plan on where you are going, is irresponsible at best. (Darren Wilson) <send email> Melbourne Beach, FL USA - Friday, July 27, 2007 at 12:33:38 (EDT) I am not going to even comment on the financial side of this transaction as there are brothers whose professional careers revolve around this type of matter. From purely logical point of view, why would we even consider selling the house when we DO NOT have a viable alternative to undergrad housing?? Trusting ANY ERAU administration on Greek row plans is foolish to say the least. Not to sell the brotherhood or R&B short, but... what are some of your fondest memories/experiences from your undergrad experience? If the house isn't in them, you were doing something wrong! A previous poster said "we shouldn't let 20 year old emotions get in the way". Why would we want to deprive the current and FUTURE undergrads of those same "emotions" with no alternative? Chapter meeings in an ERAU classroom (SAE), the house now a 3 bedroom condo and social functions held in a deserted swamp, all sound like great rush tools to me! The security standpoint is BS, we all dealt w/ the crackheads and ladies of ridgewood. Time for the BB guns (fishin for hookers) and water balloon deterrent's to reappear!! We all had to learn and to be responsible for the safety and security of each other and house while we were down there, time for the current undergrads to do the same. As a current 1855 member I vote to continue giving my $$ to the house until a VIABLE option is presented. Marino Dave Marino send message kingwood, tx usa - Friday, July 27, 2007 at 10:48:45 (EDT) Anyone who has watched the news in the last… ummm year knows that the housing/real-estate market has tanked…particularly in Florida where the costs of insurance have soared resulting in even further decline in values. This typically brings out those investors who are looking for a deal. I could not think of a worse time to sell our house. The very reasons cited to sell are the reasons to keep it. The most important being the lack of a solid plan to replace it. As many brothers have mentioned we have been getting “lip service” from ERAU for years. Be certain for one thing that ERAU is out for ERAU. This from the school that cries for Alumni help during their time of need (tornado) when I know for a fact their aviation insurance carrier was down there the following day stroking them a check. I digress… We don’t NEED to do anything right now…the house was a shit hole when I was there and I am sure it has not gotten better but its our shit hole. If anything I think we should go to the actives and find out what THEY need to make the house inhabitable for the next 5years. I understand we spent quite a few bucks on steel door frames that don’t fit and are now lying around the house as well as a security system from COSTCO so far be it from me to question the wisdom of the decision to sell the house. Maybe we should see if we can get Romel back. I digress…. I agree that this is one of the largest decisions that our chapter may ever make and submit that we all should have a vote in what happens. ODonnell ODonnell send message Atlanta, - Thursday, July 26, 2007 at 19:54:14 (EDT) I would like to have the bylaws amended to require a vote of all members in good standing for such a big decision. This is not adding AC in the wings; we are talking about the biggest decision in our history. We have a wealth of intellectual business capital in our alumni from which to draw from and we need all input to better make an educated decision. I have been speaking to several brothers and they agree we all need a vote. I have been in finance 13 years and I may not have learned much, but I did learn the phrase "buy Low, sell High." In the depressed Florida market, we seem to be selling low. There is a reason a professional investor wants to buy from us. If the offer is great and someone wants to pay more than its worth, then by all means lets seriously consider it and have an emergency meeting/vote. The House Corp has a fiduciary responsibility to act in the best interest of the chapter. One way to remove the responsibility is to allow all the chance to vote. That way there can be no complaints. In Hoc, Rich Rich Schooley send message - Tuesday, July 24, 2007 at 19:00:27 (EDT) I see reasons to keep the house far outweighing reasons to sell. From a chapter standpoint recruitment will take a hit as I've heard the guys from two doors down have seen. From an investment standpoint; if the rumors are true that businesses are buying properties on Ridgewood, Jordan stated it correctly as this is the time to buy or hold out. If Greek Row is going up in the near future, which I'm sure is very optimistic, selling the house in a year or two could significantly increase profits. I still favor our property (location questionable) over anything that Greek Row will provide us with. An estimate of what 'fixing up' the property would cost would be a good starting point for argument sake. Mark Nicalek send message Washington , DC - Tuesday, July 24, 2007 at 11:37:41 (EDT) "Reasons to sell the house: 1) No mortgage, and 2) Increased development on Ridgewood". These sound like plausible reasons NOT to sell the house. If Ridgewood is starting a gentrification process, this is time to BUY property on Ridgewood, not SELL it. I would speculate that housing market and the neighborhood have more potential for movement on the upside than on the downside. The house was a wreck when I was in school from 98-01, so I am sure that it is in no better condition now, but the opportunity cost in selling it now could be significant. Jordan Lanford <send email> Atlanta, GA USA - Tuesday, July 24, 2007 at 09:32:50 (EDT) My email from earlier about selling the House @ 520 S Ridgewood Ave... *** PLEASE FORWARD THIS TO ANY BROTHER YOU KEEP IN TOUCH WITH *** Why do I ask you to forward this email? Because many brothers have not updated their profiles with new email addresses, phone numbers, or mailing address. We have been recently contacted by 2 different parties interested in buying our properties at 520 S. Ridgewood (the House) and 525 S. Seagrave (the Country Club). So the Eta Iota House Corporation has ordered a survey and appraisal of our properties. So until we have these done I have asked the interested parties to hold off on any offers until we know what our value and asking price will be. WHY SELL NOW?? There are several reasons to sell the house at this time including: * The house will be paid for in Feb '08 - NO MORE MORTGAGE!! * Safety of the actives living at the house - there have been an increased amount of break-ins at the house (7 in the last 7 months). Brothers rooms have been broken into routinely and we are adding more security measures (bars on back windows, security cameras, and increased lighting). * Leadership changes at Embry-Riddle - the new president and the trustees are now recognizing the needs for greek housing and are looking to Sigma CHi and Delta Chi to lead the way since we are the only fraternities on campus that have any assets. * Increased development on Ridgewood - There are several improvements happening on Ridgewood Avenue so developers are looking for property. We sit on a great piece of land for something to be built on. * Operating and Repair Costs - these have increase tremendously over the last few years. We have been making repairs, but the house is getting old and falling apart still. Soon it will need a new roof and if the city came by for an inspection we would have to take out another mortgage to fix it up. WHAT ABOUT THE ACTIVES LIVING AT THE HOUSE? We are still looking into how the active chapter would operate in the interim if we sold the house until we have a new one built. Some ideas thrown around include: * Renting a house * Using facilities at the school for chapter meetings * Insert YOUR idea here... Right now we are working with Roger Moody our Chapter Advisor to figure out what happens next. In the meantime we are meeting with University to address our needs and move forward. We are also working with Sigma Chi House Corp and Mark Burrows about a new house and Tom Hart has been helping us with the legal aspects of this transaction. I will keep you informed on our progress... In the meantime I need you to call and email the brothers you are in regular contact with and let them know what is happening. While the by-laws don't require a vote of all the alumni to sell the house (that is why you elect officers and trustees to manage the House Corporation) we still want to hear from YOU!! Feel free to email any of us listed on the www.etaiota.org website and leave a comment on the guestbook. In Hoc, James "Gassi" Ahrens '90 President Eta Iota House Corporation *** PLEASE FORWARD THIS TO ANY BROTHER YOU KEEP IN TOUCH WITH ** James "Gassi" Ahrens '90 send message Cocoa Beach, FL USA - Tuesday, July 24, 2007 at 08:54:44 (EDT) I agree with you Bruce. Many brothers have already expressed their desire to have some sort of a "vote". I suggest that when the time comes (soon), we have an "emergency" House Corp meeting to discuss the issue. We could have the meeting in FL, and make it available via conference call and web cam. I'm worried that certain brothers will feel like their wishes were not considered. At the same time, I want to avoid opinions based on "fond memories" from 20+ years ago (yes we all have them). It is very important that we base our decision on the facts now. One thing that makes me not want to sell it is that it could be worth twice as much, 5 years from now. There's really no way of knowing that - and it could also be worth a lot less... My other concern is that the House has acted as some of the "glue" that Eta Iota is famous for. If we sell and it takes 7 years to build something new, there could be a decrease in interest by the student population (we would just be another fraternity with no house). Anyone know what Delta Chi's experience has been since they leveled their house? Needless to say, this will be an emotionally charged issue! As always, I stand ever ready to assist in times of need. IN HOC Reese '89 Reese Aguilar send message Kensington, MD USA - Tuesday, July 24, 2007 at 08:51:15 (EDT) Regarding selling the house. Even though the house evokes fond memories for many alums, myself included, I think it may be time to cut our losses and consider the "final option" and sell the house. We need to pin down the administration on Greek Row. I've had enough of their lip service on this issue. I have told numerous Presidents of ERAU, that I will not donate one red cent to ERAU until they commit and BREAK GROUND on a Fraternity Row! I graduated 29 years ago and have yet to donate one penny to ERAU! We can discuss interim billeting for the actives at a later time, as I am sure there are several options available. I stand ready to assist in this effort in any way the House Corp. desires. I'm only @ three hours away from DAB, maybe a little less if I'm driving my 350Z! In Hoc, Sief Bruce Balensiefer HI 1976 ERAU 1978 Bruce Balensiefer send message Jupiter, FL. USA - Tuesday, July 24, 2007 at 08:18:45 (EDT) For those of you who remember Boz, he is still around and doing well. He actually lives with my parents and has retired from fetching kegs out of the pool. He has made the first round in the coolest dog contest but needs your votes! You can call in your votes (25 cents each) on Thursday, July 19 and Friday, July 20 from 2-4 pm to: Zack Moser at 910-343-2053 The money goes to a local charity Mike ODonnell send message - Wednesday, July 18, 2007 at 09:39:06 (EDT) Yes he will. John D. Belleau send message Macomb, MI USA - Saturday, July 14, 2007 at 08:54:47 (EDT) Ron Toy will go down as one of the all time great Zulu War Chiefs. Rich Schooley send message - Friday, July 13, 2007 at 19:42:53 (EDT) Haberman, I'm sorry to read about the passing of Ron. I remember him as a great person and brother. Always fun to be around. I hope you and every other brother is doing well in life these days. Jason Clancy Jason Clancy <send email> Rockford, IL USA - Monday, June 11, 2007 at 10:50:06 (EDT) For some really great insight on the continuing saga of the Brazilian mid-air collision (flown by Eta Iota brother Jan Paul Paladino) and the real cause behind it, see this excellently written blog by Joe Sharkey, who was also on the aircraft. www.joesharkey.com, and this in depth publication for and by air traffic controllers (IFATCA Magazine) who also did some in depth investigation on the serious shortcomings of the Brazilian air traffic control system. After reading this you will know for sure that the American pilots are the innocent victims of a poorly (and dangerously) designed Brazilian radar system and the political ineptitude of the Brazilian authorities. Four Brazilian air traffic controllers are now also being blamed for the accident when the real fault lies in the inadequacies of the Brazilian system, and which the controllers have been complaining about (to deaf ears) for a long time. This case will also serve as a reminder that prosecution for accidents and aviation accident investigations are mutually exclusive goals. You cannot have a true fact finding investigation when the results of it will punish the ones involved, especially when there was no intent to violate any rules. a quote from Jim Whitehurst at Delta Air Lines at an industry function last month Question: What’s long and black and hangs in front of an asshole? Answer: A pilot’s tie. John Wrightington send message Georgetown, Cayman Islands - Sunday, May 13, 2007 at 17:42:32 (EDT) FYI - cc from the Eta Lambda Chapter of Sigma Chi at Virginia Tech http://www.vtsigmachi.org/ 2:50pm - Monday April 16th, 2007 - All brothers and pledges have been accounted for and our prayers are with those that have been affected today. Please check CNN for more updates on today's events. We will continue to update the website with more information when it becomes available. Thanks to all the chapters that have contacted us with your concerns, we appreciate it very much. I am impressed that our Brothers at VT were able to confirm everyone is safe and communicate it via their web site. Heartfelt sympathies for the VT community - Pacheco Rob Pacheco send message New York, NY USA - Wednesday, April 18, 2007 at 08:47:20 (EDT) Thus proving once again the old adage "Pilot's should be seen, but not heard" a famous quote from Gerard Arpey ... or was that Glenn Tilton ... Wrightington send message Georgetown, Grand Cayman - Saturday, April 14, 2007 at 18:47:31 (EDT) It wasn't me. However, we have a rule that says you can't use your cell phone in the cockpit for [personal] calls. So I guess if you have to call and curse out your broker or whoever that was, you have to lock yourself in the bathroom, and then this happens. Bill Palmer send message San Dieog, CA - Monday, April 09, 2007 at 19:26:18 (EDT) When I read this, one name came to mind... Flight canceled after pilot's foul language SAN FRANCISCO (Reuters) - Northwest Airlines canceled a flight set to leave from Las Vegas to Detroit after the captain cursed on a cell phone in a bathroom, then swore at one of the 180 passengers on the plane, officials said on Saturday. http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/pilot_odd_dc Tom Waterman send message - Monday, April 09, 2007 at 12:59:13 (EDT) I have a DAB overnight on the 31st, unfortunately I get in too late to join the fun at the house for B-Day but hopefully a few of you won't have passed out by 11pm to grab a beer at J's or the Deck.... for those attending B-Day and flying out on Sunday on the 1pm flight to ATL you may want to make alternate travel plans ;) Chris Nevins send message Kingwood, TX USA - Saturday, March 24, 2007 at 23:19:47 (EDT) Rick, So sorry to hear about the passing of your little brother. I remember Ron well and have thought of him numerous times throughout the years. Let this be a reminder to us all to give a call to those Brothers we haven't talked to in a while. I'll be making some calls this week. David Hines send message Alpharetta, GA - Saturday, March 24, 2007 at 23:16:04 (EDT) Brothers It is with deep sadness that I pass on the news about Brother Ron Toy. Ron passed away on Tuesday March 13, 2007 at his home in Oregon. He was 38 years old and apparently died of a heart attack in his sleep. He leaves behind a wife and three children. His viewing is on Sunday with burial on Monday in Keizer, OR. His brother told me they were going to set up a trust in his name and I will post the information when I get it. God speed my little brother you will never be forgotten. Rick Haberman <send email> East Norhtport, NY USA - Friday, March 16, 2007 at 19:18:28 (EST) Brothers, Just a heads up that the 36th Birthday Party will be March 30-31st. Friday night will be at Red Tails and Saturday will be the House Corporation meeting at noon with a BBQ at the house in the afternoon. Cost is $50 for alumni to help cover food & refreshments on both days. If you're in Florida or can come down let me know by RSVP or if you have questions call 206-356-4850 or email me james@aviatorstudios.com. James "Gassi Ahrens '90 send message Jacksonville, FL USA - Saturday, March 03, 2007 at 11:48:15 (EST)
Cy Maramangalam send message Pompton Lakes, NJ - Wednesday, February 21, 2007 at 15:45:06 (EST) Brothers, This April I will be participating in Backpackers Magazine's 2007 "Summit for Someone" Challenge (www.summitforsomeone.org ), and attempt to summit 14,496 foot Mt. Whitney in California, the highest point in the lower 49 states. My charity climb will benefit Big City Mountaineers, a non-profit group whose mission is to mentor inner-city teens and bring them into rural areas to experience nature first hand. In order to participate in this challenge, I have agreed to raise $3500 in pledges for their charity. I can only do this with the help my friends and family. If you'd like to help me in my challenge and support Big City Mountaineers, you can donate to my fund at: https://ssl.charityweb.net/bcm/summit07/cyrilmaramangalam.htm In addition, if you know anyone who would like to help support this as well, please pass the link on. Sponsorship from both individuals and companies are more than welcomed. Big City Mountaineers is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, and all donations are tax deductible. Once again I would like to thank you for any donations that you might be able to make on my behalf. If you have any questions about my climb, or if you want to wish me luck, feel free to call me at 386-235-8065. Sincerely, Cy Maramangalam #623 Cy.Maramangalam@gmail.com Cy Maramangalam send message Pompton Lakes, NJ - Wednesday, February 21, 2007 at 15:44:29 (EST) John- Glad to see you have ANOTHER job. How many is this now? Oh well, I can't throw stones, after all I'm in SUDAN! I rememeber way back in the 80's your resume was 3 pages long. BTW, how do I get a job in the Caribbean? Enjoy the hell out of it! I am back in the States for a month in March (as of now, if all goes according to plan). Well, its 0145 here in Africa and time for bed. -Later Brothers -In Hoc Big Lar Larry Hesterberg send message Juba, Sudan - Monday, February 19, 2007 at 17:42:02 (EST) but at least I don't have such an uncanny resemblance to Charlie Brown wrightington send message Dallas not Houston, - Tuesday, February 13, 2007 at 21:35:12 (EST) Dang Wrightington, you're the only guy I know that's had more jobs then me. Chris Nevins send message Kingwood, TX - Monday, February 12, 2007 at 22:46:28 (EST) new job ... VP of Commercial at Cayman Airways. probably moving to Grand Cayman in September after commuting for 67 months. Getting Buffett songs uploaded on iPod again and stocking up on rum and hammocks and conch fritters. A Pirate Turns 48 Wrightington send message Dallas, TX - Sunday, February 11, 2007 at 12:06:51 (EST) Does anybody know if the hurricane/tornado insurance is paid up? Two tornados headed toward the house in one month????? If we're going to be flattened, at least we should be covered. EZ send message waldrof, md - Friday, February 02, 2007 at 15:16:02 (EST) Brothers- Well, I have been in Sudan now for about a month, and I can tell you with great certainty that it sucks as bad as it looks on television. The smells out here are unbelievable (in a BAD way). Every morining I wake up and look out over the White Nile and see a lovely fog over it. Then I take a deep breath and realize that it is smoke from the fires that the locals use to burn trash, feces, dead animals, and in some cases, dead people. Good Morning Sudan. Then it is time for what we affectionately call the "Shock and Awe Shower." This is an ice cold shower as we have no water heater. Most of the time, if you wait until the afternoon to shower, at least the water is tolerable. Then there was the time we were up near the northern South Sudan border and stumbled on to a weapons cache. The local militia branch of the SPLA didn't take too kindly to that. Let's just say we were heavily encouraged to leave. There's lots more, but I am incredibly busy and have to get back to work. Also, just want to say I'm glad Jan Palladino is back in the US. Hope someone lets him know we were and are pulling for him. Later- Big Lar Larry A. Hesterberg send message Juba, Sudan - Monday, January 22, 2007 at 03:42:39 (EST) Bros, The company that I rent office space from is looking for some wrench turners...see below if you are intersted tell them Mike O'Donnell reffered you. The job is in Athens Georgia, cool college town although you will have to become a UGA Bulldogs fan. Job Desc: Our Athens, GA facility is seeking a qualified and experienced A&P mechanic. We are seeking an individual with at least 5 years general aviation experience for a fast paced facility. Individual will perform heavy turboprop and jet maintenance with some piston maintenance. Electrical and sheet metal skills preferred. Excellent growth opportunity for the right individual. Benefits: TBD Requirements: The right candidate must meet the following requirements: · A&P license · 5 years experience · Turboprop/Jet experience · General aviation experience · Electrical and sheet metal skills preferred Thanks for your help. Monica Humbles Athens Turboprop Management, Inc. 706-546-7969 monicah@athensturboprop.com O'Donnell send message Atlanta, ga - Thursday, January 18, 2007 at 14:32:00 (EST) I think I win again this year... May all of you have a great and prosperous 2007! Reese send message - Monday, January 01, 2007 at 00:09:01 (EST)
James "Gassi Ahrens '90 send message Jacksnville, FL USA - Sunday, December 31, 2006 at 10:52:14 (EST) SEVERE STORM HITS DAYTONA I too am worried about any damage to the house and if anyone was there on Christmas day to know. I guess the student housing got hit pretty bad but a least no one was injured. Anyone hear anything please let me know. Terry Owens Founder terry4147@aol.com Terry Owens send message Laguna Niguel, CA - Tuesday, December 26, 2006 at 13:18:42 (EST) DAYTONA HIT BY STORM, HEAVY DAMAGE !!! Brothers, If you have not seen the news yet, Daytona was hit hard on Christmas day by a violent storm that must have spawned multiple tornados resulting in severe damage especially at the school. I am hopefull that the House is OK. Can someone provide information in the status of the house. I hope everyone had a merry Christmas and best wishes for a Happy New Year ! FYI : Gassi got engaged !!! Rob Pacheco '90 Rob Pacheco send message Suffern, NY 10901 - Tuesday, December 26, 2006 at 11:30:04 (EST) OK, this is a flashback for about 30 of us that went to see the Muppett Movie back in 1977 with our new Little Sister group the day after their initiation. We went to Pappy's Pizza at Daytona Mall and then went to the move. Afterwards, we went back to the House and sang the Rainbow Connection in the pool after about three bottles of Jose Cuervo and a few Crystal burgers. Merry Christmas and god bless Carol Faith http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=thEiXbovv98 Wrightington send message Dallas, TX - Friday, December 22, 2006 at 22:16:39 (EST) Just an update on what I know about the folks who are trying to help Jan Paladino. When Dan Ward contacted me about what we could do to help Jan from a political perspective I talked to him about putting some pressure the Brazilian authorities in DC and members of Congress. I know he posted something about writing Hillary etc. I spoke to my old boss Dan Burton who chairs the Western Hemisphere Subcommittee in the House, which includes Brazil. He told me that they had been raising hell at the State Department and with the Brazilian Embassy last month. Hopefully, that played some small role in them getting their passports back. I spoke with Burton's chief of staff today, and he is leaving for Brazil tonight on a congressional delegation trip that will meet with members of the Brazilian government and he has this issue at or near the top of his list. Maybe it will do some good. Chewy John "Chewy" Williams send message Indianapolis, IN - Thursday, December 14, 2006 at 15:43:33 (EST) Hi Brothers, quick question for my "heavy iron" flying Brothers: Would there ever be a non emergency reason to jettison fuel? My reason for asking: I live about 3 miles ESE of Dulles. Every now and then I walk outside and smell an almost overwhelming odor of kerosene. Could it be the result of a pilot dumping fuel, or just some moron firing up a kerosene lantern 3 floors below me? Any input is appreciated. I'd also like to wish everyone a happy and safe holiday this year. Ya'll take care! Bernie '86 Bernard Morrison <send email> Herndon, VA USA - Monday, December 11, 2006 at 21:43:46 (EST) Brothers, Most of us have been touched by cancer in some way shape or form. We have even had and have brothers who have fought or are fighting the battle with cancer. This is the reason that the Eta Iota Chapter has decieded to become involved in Relay For Life. We are raising money to help the cause. Not only is this a greak cause we have a brother who is in charge of the event for the school(myself; Chris Chapman) but this is most likely going to have a big role in greek week which means that we are helping a great cause and representing the letters well. Please help us in our quest to be the best organization on campus. More than 1.3 million new cancer cases are expected to be diagnosed in the United States this year. This is a staggering statistic, but there is hope. Hope is the reason I’ve decided to take action against cancer by supporting the American Cancer Society Relay For Life® event right here at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. Relay For Life is an overnight event that brings our community together to help support the American Cancer Society and its lifesaving mission to eliminate cancer as a major health problem. The Society works hard every day to prevent cancer and save lives by supporting groundbreaking research, affecting public policies that protect us from cancer, and educating people on how to prevent or detect cancer early. The Society helps people with cancer right here in our own community. And our efforts at Relay For Life can help the American Cancer Society to keep working toward a cancer-free future. I want to invite you to show your support in the ongoing fight against cancer by joining us for this year’s event. Please click on the link below for more information, including details on the inspirational Survivors’ Lap and the moving Luminaria Ceremony. We hope to see you there! If you can’t join us, will you please visit the site and make a donation to support our efforts? Either way, you will make a real difference in the lives of people facing cancer – and in the lives of the people who love them. Thank you! For a CURE, Chris Chapman Follow This Link to visit my personal web page and help me in my efforts to support Relay For Life of Embry Riddle University http://www.acsevent s.org/relay/ fl/embryriddle/ chrischapman? faf=1&e=857000635 Chris Chapman Chris Chapman <send email> DAYTONA BEACH, FL usa - Wednesday, December 06, 2006 at 00:59:38 (EST) Great News!!!!! **************************************** Brazil court releases pilots' passports RIO DE JANEIRO, Brazil - A court said Tuesday it had released the passports of two U.S. pilots of a private jet involved in a collision with a Boeing 737 over the Amazon that killed 154 people. The Federal Regional Court of the First Region of Brasilia said that it unanimously agreed to return the passports of Joseph Lepore, 42, of Bay Shore, N.Y., and Jan Paladino, 34, of Westhampton Beach, N.Y. They can pick up their passports in 72 hours and leave Brazil, but must agree to return to Brazil for further inquiry and judicial action, the court said on its Web site. The Americans were piloting a Brazilian-made Legacy executive jet when it collided Sept. 29 with a Gol Airlines Boeing 737-800. All 154 people on board the Gol flight were killed, while the none of the seven people on board the Legacy were injured. http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20061205/ap_on_re_la_am_ca/brazil_plane_crash ************** Chris Nevins send message Kingwood, TX USA - Tuesday, December 05, 2006 at 15:08:43 (EST) Brothers- Nore news from this week's AOPA Pilot: IAOPA APPEALS ON BEHALF OF U.S. PILOTS HELD IN BRAZIL The International Council of Aircraft Owner and Pilot Associations (IAOPA) has called on Brazilian authorities to release two U.S. pilots detained in the country following the midair collision between an Embraer Legacy business jet and a Gol Airlines Boeing 737. "This tragic accident saddened the civil aviation community worldwide and has galvanized us to discover and correct its causes," IAOPA President Phil Boyer wrote to Brazil's Minister of Justice, Marcio Thomaz Bastos. "But, detaining the two pilots will only hinder the investigation." The Brazilian government is conducting a criminal investigation simultaneously with the accident investigation. It seized the passports of the two U.S. citizens flying the Legacy jet to prevent them from leaving the country during the investigation. Boyer noted that international agreements and guidance discourage the "inappropriate" use of safety information, including use for criminal prosecution. In Hoc- Big Lar Larry Hesterberg send message Nairobi, Kenya - Friday, December 01, 2006 at 03:41:51 (EST) Brothers- FYI, an update from the email version of AOPA Pilot: AOPA's BOYER CALLS FOR RELEASE OF U.S. PILOTS HELD IN BRAZIL AOPA President Phil Boyer requested that Secretary of State Condoleeza Rice intervene in securing the release of two U.S. pilots who have been detained in Brazil for seven weeks. The pilots have been held since a midair collision on September 29 between their Embraer Legacy business jet and a Gol Airlines Boeing 737. "These U.S. citizen pilots should be treated fairly under the law, and the U.S. State Department must take action to obtain their release and their return to the United States," Boyer wrote to Secretary Rice. "AOPA is not taking a position on the accident or the investigative process; however, it is critical that due process be followed." The plight of the two pilots has also garnered the attention of Rep. Peter King (R-N.Y.), who has requested that the State Department take action. His letter pointed out that the pilots have been detained without being charged with a crime, which violates international aviation treaties. He also expressed concern that the pilots might be in jeopardy of being held in Brazil indefinitely because, according to media reports, the investigation is expected to take 10 more months to complete. In Hoc, Big Lar Larry Hesterberg send message Nairobi, Kenya - Friday, November 24, 2006 at 05:23:24 (EST) Brothers, I've been checking to see if anything new is known about Jan. I agree that this is a public forum and we should be careful about what is placed on it; however, I believe that we can help. I'm sure many of you have already written to your Senators and Congressmen. Here is a sample letter I have come across. Fill-in-the-blanks and fire it off to your Government officials. More importantly make sure you send it to the Officials from where Jan is a constituent. CONTACT INFORMATION Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton Fax: 202-228-0282 Phone: 202-224-4451 476 Russell Senate Office Building Washington, DC 20514 Congressman Pete King Pete.king@mail.house.gov 436 Cannon House Office Building Washington, DC 20515 202-225-7896 Senator Charles Schumer 757 Third Ave. Suite 17-02 New York, NY 10017 Fax:202-228-3027 Gary Ackerman 202-225-1589 (fax) 2243 Rayburn Office Building House of Representatives Washington, DC 20515 202-225-2601 202-225-1580 (fax) SAMPLE LETTER....or write your own. Honorable Senator XXX or Honorable XXX We are writing to engage your assistance in the return of Jan Paladino and Joe Lepore, two professional pilots from New York, who have been unlawfully detained in Brazil for more than six weeks. Brazilian authorities continue to hold their passports since their involvement in a mid-air collision on September 29th, despite the fact that there has been no evidence to suggest that these pilots caused this tragic accident. They have been prevented from returning home to their families, without any charges, in violation of Brazilian law, and international aviation treaties. Sadly, Brazilian government officials have tried to scapegoat these pilots to conceal the shortcomings in their own aviation system. Air safety depends on the integrity of accident investigations. Without free and open discourse championed by ICAO and such internationally respected organizations as the Flight Safety Foundation, the cause of air safety is impaired. This heavy-handed treatment of these New York pilots, while they are fully cooperating with authorities, is unfair and impedes the aviation investigation and threatens the safety of air travelers throughout Brazil. We ask for your prompt assistance in helping to bring these honorable pilots home. Very Truely Yours, Xxx Dan Ward send message st petersburg, FL usa - Tuesday, November 21, 2006 at 16:20:16 (EST) Brothers- Hey Hoefig, how's your hairline? Or do you have any hair anymore? Does your forehead still shine enough to be used as a beacon light? Or are you selling ad space on it on eBay? Actives...I hope you really took advantage (fiscally and physically) of Bri while he was there. Any pictures of his antics there would be greatly appreciated and can probably be used for incentive for a donation for the chapter. Anyway, I am STILL in Nairobi. The Sudanese are still pissed at Americans and are holding up our visas, so there's no telling when we'll leave. On the plus side, I have discovered some great bars in Nairobi and am heading off to the beach at Mombasa next week to relax after all the "hard work" I've done here. :) Hope the House is doing well and that all you actives are doing great in classes and "extracurricular activities." Have a great break! -Later Big Lar Larry Hesterberg send message Nairobi, Kenya - Saturday, November 11, 2006 at 09:41:49 (EST)
Rob Papandrea send message Huntington Beach, CA USA - Friday, November 10, 2006 at 22:50:59 (EST) Brothers... Time to move again. 5th move in under 4 years. I'll be joining the Sidewinders of VFA-86 in Beaufort SC, which from what google tells me is only about a 3 hour drive to the D-A-B. Uh-oh. Anyone in the Beaufort/Hilton Head/Savannah/Charleston area? 'Festo Pat McKelvey send message - Sunday, November 05, 2006 at 13:09:13 (EST) Big Lar, Who gives a S - - - about your travel!!!!!!! To the upcoming graduating Brothers: I will be in Daytona next week assuming a few roles. One being a college recruiter for Boeing at the college fair 10/23-27, so those of you about to graduate make sure to see me with an updated resume. No krystalburger or pizza hut jobs listed please.That's why Bill Teague is still there!!!! The other roles will be to hit the Ocean Deck (I'll buy the 1st 10 pitchers)and of course to stop by the HOUSE to see my brothers..... I have sent email/VM to Perry Lewis (Consul) informing him of my visit. My cell is 253-951-5279. In Hoc, Brian 87'. Brian Hoefig send message Seattle, Wa - Wednesday, October 18, 2006 at 13:08:59 (EDT) Good point Chuck, this is a public forum so we should just keep our traps shut. Hammond send message Seattle, WA USA - Friday, October 13, 2006 at 19:47:23 (EDT) Anyone who knows how to use a computer want to figure out a way to start a message board or somthing so we can update each other on things such as this (Jans situation). Chuck Bonini send message - Wednesday, October 11, 2006 at 18:39:48 (EDT) Just looked at the links that Hamond posted and they are disgusting. Nothing but an over priced ambulance chaser. I hope Stuart was able to talk some sense into that prick. Myatt send message Hong Kong, China - Tuesday, October 10, 2006 at 23:16:58 (EDT) Just got the email back from Stuart. It came from the NY branch of his firm and he's in LA, but He's put the word out. Took less than an hour. Brotherhood in action. We all know how the court of public opinon works and with Jan stuck down there with 186 million angry Brazilians, we need to be seeing reports about how any pilot that's ever flown Emberair products knows they are notorious for transponder failure. Keep having good thoughts. Hammond send message Seattle, Wa usa - Monday, October 09, 2006 at 17:22:49 (EDT) Hey Stuart, How about reigning in your partners blaming the crew in the media and on your website before there's any evidence? "Christine Negroni, an investigator for the aviation law firm Kreindler & Kreindler of New York, said in an e-mail that under international guidelines the Legacy should not have been at an odd-numbered altitude because it was heading northwest." http://www.kreindler.com/kreindler_news/news_current/2006-10-Gol-Airlines-Flight1907.htm http://www.kreindler.com/kreindler_attorneys.html Anthony Hammond send message seattle, wa - Monday, October 09, 2006 at 16:02:10 (EDT) Dear Brothers, (especially active's) Great job on the Sig merchandise from Cafe Press! I bought a bunch of stuff (sweatshirt, coffee mug, mouse pad and more). As a White Cross 1855 member it does me well to know that our chapter of this incredible Fraternity is still kickin'strong! The best memories of my life are of Sigma Chi and the great days I spent at HI. Ya'll can count on me spiritually and monitarily to contribute to our future. I'm 42 years old now, but I still proudly wear the "blue and Gold" everywhere I go, and you wouldn't believe how many people confront me and say: "Oh, were you a SigmaChi"? And it gives me great pleasure to say: "No, I am a Sigma Chi" (emphasis on "am") Wish I could've made it to the 35th, Bro's, work sometimes suck's, but unless I'm dead, I'll be there for the 40th! Bernie '86 Bernard Morrison <send email> Herndon, VA 20170 - Sunday, October 08, 2006 at 16:35:10 (EDT) Bros- Just curious if there are any brothers/alum that are currently working for Frontier or any Corporate Departments in the Colorado area. If so, and you have any information you would like to share on opportunities there that would be great. Thanks in advance. Chris Tomlinson send message Auburn Hills, MI USA - Sunday, October 08, 2006 at 14:51:58 (EDT) Has anyone actually spoken to Jan? Or recieved an email? Myatt send message Hong Kong, China - Friday, October 06, 2006 at 02:40:15 (EDT) http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/world/4231358.html Any word on what's happening? They've taken his passport. I couldn't imagine being in a worse situation. At the mercy of a foriegn govenment 155 dead citizens and they're looking for a scapegoat. I've already read three reports from self-professed "experts" in the media blaming them. The best was from one who said that they were wrong because they were supposed to be at an ODD altitude because they were WESTbound. Hopefully the reporter for the Times who's life they saved will have his back. Hammond Seattle, WA - Wednesday, October 04, 2006 at 01:16:08 (EDT) Brothers- I am currently in Nairobi, Kenya, awaiting my final visa to enter southern Sudan. I am now working for DynCorp International as the Communications Manager for Southern Sudan. Unfortunately, as we are working for the "Southern" Sudanese, and being paid by the US State Department, State insists that we hold a "Government of Sudan" (northern Sudan) visa in addition to the "southern" Sudan visa (which I already have). So while all this gets sorted out, here I sit in Nairobi. I've been here for about a month now, and you would not believe how rampant corruption is here. In my first month here: a car hit our vehicle intentionally to extort some money, a policeman pulled us over on a made up charge but let us go after we paid him personally our "fine" (at least our "fine" was large enough to get him to escort us to the restaurant though), a coworker and his family were robbed in an armed home invasion (living in a gated and guarded community, no less)AND the intruders came back a week later and tried to con their way through the new security, and our local driver rolled (and totaled) one of our SUVs when a woman who wasn't looking hit the vehicle. While I'm on driving: imagine Washington, DC (or insert large city here) with: no street or highway signs, no house or building numbers, no traffic lights or stop signs (or, if there are any, they're ignored), a road system that looks like cooked spaghetti dropped on the floor, and English style driving and vehicles (on the left). Now blindfold all the drivers and have them stomp on the gas. All at rush hour. With pedestrians jumping and weaving through the traffic. Its a miracle there aren't MORE fatalities or accidents. Welcome to driving in Nairobi. Well, its 5 o'clock here and time to find a pub! More later. In Hoc, Big Lar -- Larry A. Hesterberg Communications Manager Southern Sudan DynCorp International Juba, Sudan, Africa larry.hesterberg@att.net Larry Hesterberg send message Sudan, Africa - Wednesday, October 04, 2006 at 15:35:35 (EDT) Brothers, We are getting a real early start on things around the chapter. This message is for everybody who attended this years birthday, a previous or anybody who is interested in attending next years birthday. I am looking for some feedback from everybody on what they liked and didnt like. I want to know what is going to make it better for everybody. So just hit me up with an email when you get a chance. Thanks IH Chapman Chris Chapman <send email> Daytona Beach, Fl USA - Friday, July 07, 2006 at 12:28:39 (PDT) In case anybody missed it, the Birthday Party pictures are in the photo gallery on the home page. Thank Reese! EZ send message Waldorf, MD - Thursday, June 29, 2006 at 04:37:42 (PDT) I made the trip to Hong Kong for training...any of you boys that are going to be in this part of the world, send me an email. I will be here in the hotel until approx. the end of August. I could use some drinking buddies with "American" accents. Myatt send message Hong Kong SAR, - Saturday, June 24, 2006 at 13:58:04 (PDT) Was doing a little research on VLJ's (Very light jets). Dayjet to be Specific.On the Dayjet website, there is a resume of their chief pilot whose name is Don Osmundson. The resume says he graduated from Riddle. Isn't he one of our brothers from around 1971? Is he a founder of Eta Iota? Just wondering. Any of you "old guys" let me know! Thanks, Sief Bruce Balensiefer send message Jupiter, FL USA - Wednesday, June 21, 2006 at 15:12:58 (PDT) I seem to recall that Delta Chi was between a PW and a 9 iron depending on the wind. (Dan Ward) <send email> St. Petersburg, FL - Saturday, May 27, 2006 at 04:29:06 (PDT) Chris, if you are looking for drink vending machines you might want to check http://www.vendingdirectory.com for manufacturers or suppliers in your area. (Todd) <send email> - Friday, May 26, 2006 at 14:00:46 (PDT)
David Marino send message - Wednesday, May 24, 2006 at 13:16:13 (PDT) Yes, the Delta Chi house is gone. But they still hang out at the lot for initiations and other functions. So there's nothing left for them to hide behind. Break out the funnelator and golf tees. EZ send message Waldorf, MD - Tuesday, May 23, 2006 at 04:44:30 (PDT) Congratulations on the birth of your son. I'd love to shoot potatos. One catch... The Delta Chi house has been completely leveled and is now just a vacant lot... Reese send message Kensington, MD - Monday, May 22, 2006 at 20:44:25 (PDT) Its is official, my life is changing. Jack Patrick Myatt was born on May 16th and I have officially quit my job as of June 1st. What the hell is going on? Anybody want to fire the potato gun at Delta Chi? Myatt send message - Sunday, May 21, 2006 at 21:08:23 (PDT) Count me in for $100 for the soda machine ... Chris Nevins send message Kingwood, TX - Tuesday, May 02, 2006 at 07:38:29 (PDT)
seth downs send message Anchorage, AK USA - Monday, April 24, 2006 at 08:57:44 (PDT) Hey everybody. I just wanted to say that it was great being an active and getting to meet all the alumni that came down for birthday. It really excited me and helped to show me some new passion for everything and of course I got a lot of ideas from everyone. But the actual reason that I am posting this is about our drink machine. Currently we have a company taking care of the vending machine and that isn't really getting done. However I have thought about it and wanted to do it for a long time but being an undergrad I do not have the money to purchase a new machine for the house. So we are setting up a new drink machine fund to purchase a drink machine for the house again. The machine I have found are going to run about $3000.00. All donations would be greatly appriciated. Also if anybody knows where to find a new one cheaper contact me as well. Thank you all for everything and I look forward to the next 35 years. IH Chris Chapman 864-630-3871 chapm436@yahoo.com Chris Chapman <send email> Daytona Beach, FL USA - Sunday, April 23, 2006 at 20:50:00 (PDT) Hello there Brothers, I am heading down to MCO on Friday at approx 12pm. Will anybody be in MCO heading over to DAYTONA. lets split the fare. Spencer Cell 516-587-2070 Spencer Smith send message levittown, NY 11756 - Tuesday, April 18, 2006 at 14:49:42 (PDT) I am trying to locate John Wrightington who graduated from New Hope High School (Alabama) in 1976 regarding our 30th reunion. I would like to get his email or mailing address so that I may send him information. (Joy Hammonds West) <send email> Huntsville, AL - Wednesday, April 12, 2006 at 15:52:18 (PDT) So, how many people have tickets on Delta? They picked a good week for a labor dispute. EZmfE send message waldorf, bfe usa - Thursday, April 13, 2006 at 06:55:12 (PDT) Howdy everyone. Unfortunately I can't make birthday this year and am a little bummed about it. I guess there is always next year... Anyway, thought you guys may want to see this post on a website called greekchat.com. It is a posting of an article that HQ wrote about the Scrapbooks for Soldiers thing Jules and I started. Thought some of you might be interested: www.greekchat.com posting I know everyone will have a blast at B-day this year. Live it up and have one for me! Tony Leggieri send message Taneytown, MD US of A - Wednesday, April 05, 2006 at 14:34:47 (PDT) Concur on the Days Inns rates ($59). Also found semi cheap rates beachside at the Thunderbird ($65) and Beachcomber ($69) FWIW... I'll probably be coming into MCO (Friday targeting noon or so) if anyone wants to attempt to coordinate schedules and spit a rental car... I plan on leaving Sunday after the chapter meeting out of MCO 5:30 or later flights... In Hoc, Nevins Chris Nevins send message Kingwood, TX - Tuesday, March 28, 2006 at 13:55:40 (PST) Well, I finally got on the ball and mailed out my birthday reservation today. Since I don't really golf, I am bringing up my skydiving rig to make some jumps in Deland Friday morning... Anyone else interested in making a few jumps? Justin send message - Tuesday, March 28, 2006 at 11:40:34 (PST) I see Pete Cameron started his own sub-chapter,lol. Sorry Pete, had to do it. http://orderoftheserpentine.com/home.html Chris Tomlinson send message Detroit, MI USA - Saturday, March 25, 2006 at 08:44:49 (PST) Brothers, I want to take a minute to give thanks to a great brother, Ken Bott. My family is in the process of moving to Savannah, Carmen (my wife) changed jobs and I moved offices. Selling my house and moving to Savannah was a crazy time. Then when it could not get more hectic, my Mom passed away on Feb 14th and Kenny who barely knew my Mom at all drove 4 hours to S.C. for the funeral. He has put me up in his house at least 10 nights, fed me countless meals and helped work on the house that is for sale. There was always an adult beverage at the Bott house with my name on it. Kenny was my Magister 18 years ago. Since I am slow learner, it took that long to finally learn what True Friendship is. Thanks Kenny. P.S. Good news Kenny, I spoke to my CPA and I qualify as a dependant so I’m a deduction for you know. Rich Richard Schooley send message Savannah, GA - Wednesday, March 22, 2006 at 13:17:56 (PST) The Days Inn a few doors down has some cheap rates. I know it means crossing paths with Delta Chi, but, oh well. EZ send message waldorf, md usa - Friday, March 17, 2006 at 08:00:43 (PST) Anyone looking to split a room and/or rental car for birthday? I think I can get out of here for the festivities! Mefesto send message - Tuesday, March 14, 2006 at 19:29:47 (PST) THE LAST BIRTHDAY EVER!!!!!!!!!! Yes you read correctly this will be the last HI B-day ever. For all you that are to oblivious to see the signs, the end of the world is near!!!! The signs are all in place: Giant Tsunamis Earthquakes Global Warming Devastating Hurricanes George Bush gets re-elected The friggin Red Sox win the world series... and the most important signs to welcome Armageddon Myatt, yes Christopher Myatt not only has a kid due but he got MARRIED!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Holy crap, i'm goin to confession tonight!!!!!!!!! Dave Marino send message - Sunday, March 12, 2006 at 14:04:04 (PST) Brothers - Birthday Party is just around the corner April 20-23 and I am looking forward to seeing everyone! We have lots of things going on so don't miss out. Also if you want to stay at The Shores Resort - deadline for the cheap rate is March 24th!! If you are attending PLEASE send in your money and registration ASAP!! We have lots of deposits to pay for the food, music, swag, etc.. Nevins - I love that picture of Smokey!! That dog was the best and I miss him everytime I see his picture. Too bad Fawaz Atchoo kidnapped him and took him to Atlanta...Just kidding Uzi!! See you'all at Birthday! In Hoc, Gassi James Ahrens send message Jacksonville, FL Duval - Thursday, March 09, 2006 at 08:09:49 (PST) HAPPY BIRTHDAY BROTHERS!!!!! 35 YEARS AND STILL GOING STRONG!!!! Reese send message Kensington, MD USA - Monday, March 06, 2006 at 05:39:20 (PST)
Chris Nevins send message Kingwood, TX - Friday, February 24, 2006 at 14:30:03 (PST)
Chris Nevins send message Kingwood, TX - Friday, February 24, 2006 at 14:29:13 (PST)
Chris Nevins send message Kingwood, TX - Friday, February 24, 2006 at 14:28:33 (PST)
Chris Nevins send message Kingwood, TX USA - Friday, February 24, 2006 at 14:25:14 (PST) Browing through the website, and I've noticed 1855 club membership is still pretty dismal. WTF guys? All you gotta do is sign up, and they'll take 9 bucks out automatically (or more) and you don't have to do anything. Thats like 2 beers less per month, I think you can sacrifice that much! Mefesto send message - Saturday, February 11, 2006 at 07:41:58 (PST) Ray- Give Myatt a shout about Cathay Pacific. He's got some interesting info on that company. They hire with a lot less time than you might think, and literally no turbine PIC. I believe we got a couple of guys over at JetBlue now too. If they give you a "blue bullet"(reference) or whatever, supposedly you're guaranteed an interview. Tomlinson Chris Tomlinson send message Deetoilet, MI 48327 - Tuesday, February 07, 2006 at 11:48:15 (PST) Hey guys, Any of you fellas know of any good job leads. It looks like after 5plus years at Mesaba, I am going to be unemployed. I'm thinking about giving freight a try, maybe one of the wet lease companies like Atlas or Polar, etc..... I've cruised the jobs page but not that interested in Colgan, no offense Matt. I interned at Continental but can't get a hold of my old boss, he's probably avoiding me due to excess sleeping at the desk while I was in Houston. So, help a fellow brother out. Is there a current brother interning at CO right now? That would be a good lead to get ahold of the old boss. Looking forward to B-Day, probably won't be able to pay that registration fee but willing to clean your room or something in exchange, my peeps are good at that kinda stuff. Ray Ray Ray Pyon <send email> Raleigh, NC US - Monday, February 06, 2006 at 15:57:30 (PST) Does anyone know somebody who is a federal air marshal? I have a friend that is a highway patrolman that might be interested in the postition. (shawn) <send email> - Sunday, February 05, 2006 at 21:10:09 (PST)
EZ send message - Thursday, February 02, 2006 at 07:58:02 (PST)
EZ send message - Thursday, February 02, 2006 at 07:57:01 (PST)
EZ send message - Thursday, February 02, 2006 at 07:55:17 (PST)
EZ send message - Thursday, February 02, 2006 at 07:54:21 (PST) Welcome to Steelers Airlines. Here's your new crew: EZ send message waldorf, md - Thursday, February 02, 2006 at 07:52:34 (PST) Got to; I do what I can. Chris Tomlinson send message Deetoilet, MI 48327 - Friday, January 27, 2006 at 12:37:35 (PST) Batman gets off probation and he's already stirring the pot. Mefesto send message - Saturday, January 21, 2006 at 12:12:03 (PST) Does anyone have Eric Cannon's email address, or telephone #? He called me while I was down in Argentina and I lost his number. If you have either of them please email it to me. Myatt send message - Saturday, January 21, 2006 at 09:51:28 (PST)
Chris Tomlinson send message Deetoilet, MI USA - Wednesday, January 11, 2006 at 15:57:23 (PST) Pat, I guess they have not taught you yet its, no smoking within eight hours and no drinking withing 50 feet of the aircraft. H-770-297-8719 W-800-292-8805 C-678-923-4457 OD Mike ODonnell send message Atlanta, Ga - Wednesday, January 11, 2006 at 06:21:52 (PST) Carson... you forget to pay your phone bill or what? I tried getting in touch with you going through Atlanta on my way to Virginia Beach and got the "temporarily disconnected" message the automated slutty voice. Sorry OD... I'da called you too but I didn't have your number (and I needed to stay sober). Mefesto send message - Tuesday, January 10, 2006 at 14:50:04 (PST) Just wanted to let everyone know that John Belleau's father died last weekend. I think many of us remember him visiting the House in the late 80's. The following is the obituary from the Port St. Lucie paper. At the end is an internet address you can use to reach the funeral home web site where you can leave a message in the guest book. Or, you can reach John via email at JHONBELL@aol.com. In hoc, Chewy '92 Clifford D. Belleau Clifford D. Belleau, 77, died Jan. 8, 2006, at Alterra Clarebridge Cottage in Tequesta. He was born in Warren, Mich., and was a winter resident of Port St. Lucie for 20 years, coming from Warren. Before retirement, he owned and operated Automotive Color Supply Inc. in Roseville, Mich., for 56 years. He also served on the City of Warren Planning Commission for seven years. He was a member of St. Andrew Lutheran Church in Port St. Lucie, Mount Calvary Lutheran Church in Warren and the PGA Country Club in St. Lucie West. He was a 32nd Degree member of Masonic Lodge 550 F.&A.M. in Centerville, Mich., a Moslem Shriner and a member of the Scottish Rite. Survivors include his wife, Gloria Belleau of Port St. Lucie and Warren; daughter, Pamela Crisman of Harbor Beach, Mich.; sons, Clifford Belleau of Algonac, Mich., and John Belleau of Macomb, Mich.; sisters, Mary Junod of Fort Myers, Edna Goetz of Ann Arbor, Mich., and Barbara Cullum of Stuart; and two grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a brother, Lewis Belleau; and sister, Myrtle Normile. Memorial contributions may be made to the Hospice Foundation, 1201 S.E. Indian St., Stuart, FL 34996. SERVICES: Visitation will be from 3 to 9 p.m. Jan. 10 at the Byrd Young & Prill Port St. Lucie Funeral Home. Burial will be in White Chapel Cemetery in Troy, Mich. Out-of-town arrangements are by Ford Funeral Home, Centerline, Mich. A guest book may be signed at www.byrdyoungandprillfuneralhome.com. John "Chewy" Williams send message Indianapolis, IN USA - Tuesday, January 10, 2006 at 06:50:55 (PST) I agree with O'Donnell. I, too, hope to see many of you at birthday. Not all of you, of course... but many. Ryan Carson send message Atlanta, - Monday, January 09, 2006 at 20:39:07 (PST) Happy New Year all. Got to ring it in at our house with Rhen and SpermBank. Val actually let Tim come over and play. I have a long road to hoe with getting her to let beloved Tim come hang out unsupervised. Unfortunatly for me, Val lived on top of Bill Jones and I during our Sophmore year so....she is a little apprehensive but I got to plead my case that I am a responsible citzen now. Thanks to all the guys who are fighting the good fight and were not able to be with their friends and family this Christmas, or Holiday Season if you are one of those PC folks. Hope to see many of you at Birthday. OD Mike ODonnell send message Atlanta, Ga - Monday, January 09, 2006 at 10:42:58 (PST) First one of the year! Happy new years guys. Guard well in the new year. Pat McKelvey send message Virginia Beach, Va - Sunday, January 01, 2006 at 12:22:37 (PST) | |||||||||||||||
Brothers,
On this Veterans Day remember to honor the names of our brothers who have served or are currently serving our country.
Myatt,
Thataway Chris, way to start networking! We had a soda machine in my day and it brought in some money for the house and kept Pickel busy making frequent trips to the store.
...
....
A few more...
I was cleaning out a closet and found this:
one more new hire:
not sure if that first post made it. so here's anther try:
the last crew through the door:
another new crew:
Well, I guess this about sums it up for the new year.