Don't worry gents, we made some good progress today. Over 50 now. I don't remember what we are officially at, but we're approaching 100 tickets.
Before we turn this into a soap box, remember, this is meant to be not only fun, but for a wonderful cause. My original intent wasn't for a bunch of us folks to win a bunch of killer stuff. But a reason for us to open our wallets and think of ways we can help preserve the backcountry experience for many years to come. Both the RAF and IAF are some of the best non-profits around that completely support what we love to do. This one way we can say thanks, and give a little something back.
I'm speechless at the amount of support we have received from businesses and people within the aviation community. The generosity that has been shown to us is amazing. In a way, we need to show that back, by supporting those companies, saying "Thank You", and buying tickets. I haven't added it up, but I'm sure the pot is nearing $6000 (and growing), that's astonishing!!! If we don't make this worth while for everyone, then this will most likely not happen next year.
BUT, I will NOT underestimate the BackcountryPilot Community. I've already seen a few select individuals buy a LOT of tickets, and they received a personal email from me expressing my gratitude! Have some faith folks, we have a few more weeks and I'm sure a lot of people are going to buy tickets at the fly-in, which is fine with me. At the end of the day, all that will matter is that everyone is happy. (Send out a email to a few of your local flying buddies, get the word out
).
Once again, I just want to say a BIG THANK YOU to those who have helped in any way, either by giving a donation, sending emails, or picking up a few tickets! A few weeks ago, none of this was even an issue.
Oh, and yes, I'm planning on coming.
