SUN

Saturday, June 14, 2003

Salt Lake City Commemorative Skydive

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Today was a day for many firsts. Jim got his first sky dive (he says it is the first of many), a tandem jump with the original Wild Man of Utah, "Utah" Mike Neslin. It was a first for Utah Mike -- who is stylin' both on the ground and in the air -- Jim was his 1,200 tandem jump. It was a first for the rest of the team also -- they got seats on an historic DC-3 that carried the jumpers to altitude. The plane is a venerable old beast, loud, drafty, and completely beautiful. This specific plane participated in the Normandy Invasion in 1944 by dropping paratroopers into France. This flight was Tricia's first plane ride, and despite visible nerves, she did great. Furthermore, today was a first for our guest rider, Keith, as he got to witness first hand the insanity of our team.

Interestingly, our copilot on the flight was 14 year old Brit Meibas, who's photo is included below. We surmised, after the flight unfortunately, that our discounted rates may have been because Brit was right-seating.

The jump today by Jim and Joe was dedicated to Sam Jolly, Allee Pepper, and Kimi Hill. They have tons of attitude in the face of disability and we honor their commitment.

Here's a note to Jeanne (Keith's wife) from the rest of the team: "We haven't seen Keith in several days after what should have been a quick run to Hooters for wings. Has he called home?" Actually, though, Keith says to Jeanne that he misses you.