Messages

Message from Nadine on Thu Jun 10 19:29:40 2004

no karen i am not in the union it is just something i decided to put together and tom and mary our mngs approved it so how ya been? i go to rgs next week i am soooo nervous i went to az the other day and saw mary she is doing good :) take care i am off to fly!!!! bye

Message from Karen on Tue Jun 8 13:11:58 2004

Ok Nadine, but be careful - the union is not allowed to use people's mailboxes to communicate. Not sure if your questionaire was "from the union" officially, but if it was then we are just supposed to use our one designated bulletin board in each base and the U.S. Mail. Isn't that a bummer?

Message from Nadine on Mon Jun 7 17:35:01 2004

karen i printed out 50 copies and put it in every 1 mailbox

Message from Joseph on Sun Jun 6 09:02:40 2004

Good Morning All I am trying to go to Paris.France in August. would anyone want to sell a buddy pass that would take me somewhere that you guys think would be a good round trip ticket to fly out of...ie......buddy pass to DTW and then pay my ticket to fly from there. ITs a thought. I could leave early and stay in a hotel .........so that if I got bumped that would be ok...If you would like to sell a buddy pass, let me know.....what about flying our of New York.......Karen, do you have any suggestions........Thanks .......

Message from Karen on Sat Jun 5 21:48:20 2004

Nadine, that sounds great - I would be very interested to see what they have to say. Did you put something in everyone's mailbox, or how did you actually contact the reserves? Did you contact everyone or just people you ran into? Just curious.

Message from Nadine on Fri Jun 4 19:12:44 2004

karen i will fowrard the feedback i got to you remember that letter and questionare i had reserves fill out? i got alot of good ideas! i am off to fly!!! bye

Message from Pam on Fri Jun 4 12:17:46 2004

I am finally home! I don't know if it's stress or what but am under the weather today and my daughter is graduating tomorrow!!!! Anyways yes Karen I am definately interested in getting on this reserve committee. If they don't do something quick we are going to have turn over after turn over....plus it's who they are hiring. I flew with a soon to be #1 FA going to CVA who is also a OE. She flew with a new hiring last week (on a regular trip) and she was saying how young and unprofessional she was. She had her pants hanging around her hips cause "she didn't like the feel of them being so high!!" She ended up doing most of the work on the flights cause this girl was so hard to deal with. She told her that if she didn't listen to some of her advice then she will be working with "wolves" that will eat her alive. She said she then finally backed down and started working better with her but that she probably won't last very long because of her attitude.........where are they getting these people from????? I know I have been frusterated lately and am hanging on this job with my very last string only because I have put in a lot of time to doing this.

Message from Karen on Fri Jun 4 08:27:36 2004

Pam, how are you doing? Are you done with your MEM stint now? I found out that you can help me with the Reserve Committee. Sharon, our acting Pres, said you should tell Lindy (DTW LECP) and let her know you want to be on the Reserve Committee for DTW. But since our issues are totally shared, we can just work together on it! My big issue is the 30 and 7 loophole. I also have a problem with the 24 hr reserve schedule, in that you don't get adequate rest BEFORE a high speed. You get it AFTER, but not before! You don't know if you should wake up early and get ready in case you get a short call out in the morning with traffic, or if you might be up till midnight working, in which case you should sleep in as long as possible. Lots of airlines don't have 24 hr reserve, so it can be done. Anyway, even though we are about finished with reserve (yeah!) we are more knowledgeable than most on what it's like to be on reserve. If we can help make reserve more pleasant, then maybe we can retain more new hires. So let's start working together on the reserve committee!

Message from Nadine on Wed Jun 2 14:53:37 2004

karen lol that is so funny about that girl, thats the 1st time i ever heard u say anything mean about anyone lol its so nice not to be called :) even though cdos suck! fly safe

Message from Karen on Tue Jun 1 16:00:32 2004

Oh man Pam! I feel so bad for you! I just have three words for you: HANG IN THERE!!! There is a very real possibility that you will hold a line in July. What a waste to come so far to throw in the towel early, so please don't even consider that! Maybe you should consider dropping a reserve day later this month. Of course they do deduct pay, but if you need some sanity time it might be worth it. Nadine, now I have to go check my check stubs to see if I've been paying dues! I don't really remember what it said and I'm on a trip right now. We must be short reserves because I have 23 hrs coming into the month, plus I'm a senior reserve, so I should be about the last called and I have a 3 day trip. Last week I flew with the #2 FA, today I'm flying with the #3. We just got back from Austin, Texas - unfortunately just a turn - it was 80 degrees! Felt so good!!! I met a girl today that was doing ARR for her first time ever (green line was in May), so it's her first day of reserve ever. I really worry about her attitude. She was like, "I called TWICE yesterday and they said I didn't have anything yet, and then they called at 4:30 am with ARR! This is really going to be an irritating day!" I told her it's what you make it. With that approach she should get fed up real fast and quit I bet. I told her that you generally don't know way ahead what you are doing. She needs to settle down! I don't know what she is expecting. When we got back from AUS she was in jeans and she said, "I was SO SICK of sitting in my uniform". Whatever. Bet she isn't here long.

Message from Nadine on Tue Jun 1 11:27:22 2004

hello all :) still making it :) i am going to need super help in aug for bidding my navy boy gets home and i want to be there when the ship pulls in :) so i have a cdo line next month!! i hope it goes well and i am not super tired and sleep all day i am sick of this i neeed a regular line!! omg i got a bill in the mail saying i was past due on my union dues!!! i owe like $160.00 how?? i thought they payroll deduct it?? they took out the intial fees do u know anything about it??? pam have u heard from your son? hows the box going? i hope my boyfren gets to com home 4 sure i haven't heard from him in a month!!! ever since those marines got killed he has been on this status where he can't call write or email :( well take care all!!

Message from Pam on Tue Jun 1 07:48:43 2004

That does make some sense with the 90 minutes. I do hope that I finally get to hold a line in July because this Reserve is hard! They just called for me to do ARR in Cinnci for 4 days! I have pretty much had enough. Last week I drove down in a blinding storm, hail, lightening had to pull over twice. I call scheduling on my way down to check on the flight and they said it was only delayed 10 minutes. I get down there and it had been cancelled for 45 minutes!!! Then Monday they called me to dh to London, I sat in the hotel for 4 hours. When I got to the airport the crew that was flying the plane back had come in the plane we were taking back, they didn't have to sit. I first thought that possibly they were flying earlier but that wasn't the case. The flight was over booked coming up and thats why they sent me but if it was over booked why did they let the ca and fo fly up on that flight and the ca said he could have jump seated. Then I go to MEM on Wednesday afternoon, my flights didn't pick up till Thursday afternoon starting at 2.

Message from Karen on Mon May 31 20:29:03 2004

Ok, this I do know a little bit about. Remember those couple of months when you guys flew a ton and I sat at home most of the time? It was the same phenomenon. It actually does make sense if you look at it from the crew schedulers point of view. For example, if they are really short in MEM, but have a long list available in DTW, they can ship over a DTW FA, but not on 90 min call-out. So if they know about a trip ahead of time, they'll import someone, leaving the in-base FA available for the 90 min call-out. It does make sense, but it's unfortunate for you guys that get pulled out of base so much. It's not so bad if people don't stay on reserve for long, but it's unfortunate for those that have to go through it again and again. The schedulers explained this to me when I wasn't flying much in Feb & Mar. They really did feel bad for the DTW FA's, but their hands were tied. They have to cover the flights with what they've got. Hopefully you'll be able to get a line soon - don't you have 12 on green line this month? Maybe July is the month for you! I am flying a ton these days too. I thought maybe I'd get to sit home tomorrow because I start out the month with 23 hrs credit, thanks to recurrent and PBS, so I should be the last one called out, but I have a 3 day starting tomorrow morning at 6:00 am :-0 There is so much Open Time, I cannot believe it! Pam, let me know if you still have any questions or concerns about the reserve issue, and I will let you know if you can help me on the reserve committee when I hear back from our acting Pres!

Message from Pam on Mon May 31 12:42:34 2004

have more to tell. Ok so I'm in MEM and they pull me off my pairing to do an over night to Oak city on the jet. The other FA who is also a reserve tells me that she was givin my pairing but then pulled off because they wanted her incase of sick calls!! huh? SO she does the overnight and then sends her home. She was telling me that she over heard someone say that they were finally called in, that they had been sitting at home for 10 days!!!! I just don't get it. Dora was called down there and I ran into one of the new hires who was called down but they have MEM base sitting at home incase of sick calls???? Karen could you in a round about way ask scheduling about this? I don't know how much they could tell you but what the FA told me was that Charlotte will do that. What does the Reserve Committee do? I would be interested in joining if they will allow us who are not based there.

Message from Pam on Mon May 31 07:32:49 2004

Hey guys....had just another "wonderful" week was in MEM for 4 days. Shawn so good to hear from you! I have been thinking of you and Mary and wondering how it was going, I will give you a call this week....you too Joseph. Ran into Nichole, Dora and Angela. Angela is leaving she put in her two weeks notice. Funny story......had a long over night in MEM so my crew and I went down to Beale Street (never have been down there) and we were sitting in this outdoor resturant listening to this guy playing when all of the sudden I felt something pull at my hair.....it was a GOAT chewing on my hair!!! Needless to say my crew gave me a hard time the rest of the week.

Message from Nadine on Sat May 29 13:20:30 2004

hello all:) doing arr twice this week! i got a cdo line next month it's gonna suck but anything is better than reserve!!!! shaun i will be in az on 6-7- 6-10 to visit my friend she quit from here to mary a saad cpt and she is lonely pam hows it going? angela put in her 2 weeks :( we are getting less and less of our vlass staying :( hey karen in july mabey u can try to hep me get some kind of line!!!!!!! take care all!!!!! bye

Message from Karen on Sat May 29 09:28:58 2004

Me again - sitting ARR today - I can't believe that with all the hours I've flown this week. Hmmmm.... this is my top priority for the Reserve Committee. I have flown over 30 hours in this 7 day span already. This is the 3rd time I've had ARR this month, but the good news is that it puts me over 75 hrs so I will actually get paid for them. Guess what - so many of us that could get lines for June bid reserve, that the lines went quite junior. I have a (new) good friend that was in that Feb 23rd class (green line April, May is her first month of reserve) and she got a line for June! I helped her bid and no way did I think lines would go that junior. Wow, I'm jealous! One month on reserve! It might not last though, I intend to bid for a line in July so I guess it depends if the new hires stay. Today is "Saab Observation Day" for the new class. I was just walking around the airport and introduced myself to a couple of them (you can spot them a mile away). The weather is CRAPPY today - pouring rain - that's too bad. These 2 were headed to MCW-FOD and she says to me, "does that mean we go DOWN into Mason City, up and then DOWN AGAIN into Fort Dodge?" Yes! Ha ha, they are so funny! Were we that funny? Hope all is well with you guys. Anxious to hear if Joseph has gotten ahold of anyone that can help him. Oh! Just heard, our manager Lisa, is going back to the line. You might remember her, real pretty blonde woman, spoke to us about ... scheduling I think ... during our training. I really like her, but the poor woman has been managing a double load for MSP and CVG! Our new manager is in training right now, and then we still need one more. Oh my gosh.

Message from Karen on Fri May 28 09:51:06 2004

How fun to hear from you Shaun! Congrats to both you and Mary - I am very envious of the Phoenix move!!! Hey Pam and Nadine, I am officially on the Reserve committee! I have been emailing with our Vice President - actually she's the acting President because ours resigned - and she wants me to head it up and recruit other people to work with me. I asked her if I can recruit DTW people to work with me and I am awaiting an answer on that!! Day 3 of a 3 Day on the jet. Was in DTW a lot but never time to go to the crew room from A63! I'm flying with the #2 FA, she is awesome, we are having a good time! But I sure have been flying a lot of hours this week. Got to go to my plane - bye!

Message from Shaun on Thu May 27 23:42:29 2004

Hey guys! Long time no talk!! WOW you made it a year! congrats to all of you! mary was kinda sad she didnt make one year. But hey we both moved out to phoenix! we are actually in training (again) with america west...8 long weeks, we graduate june 29th! it can't come fast enough! So i would love to be able to talk to all of you. I finally got this computer hooked up to get on here. I lost all the phone numbers dang it. My new number is 480-824-8411. Pam get in touch with me. We havent talked in forever! Joseph you really want to go back? If you can't get Charlotte call Mesaba HDQ at 651-367-5000 and ask to talk to HR there. Either MSP or DTW does hiring in MEM. Not sure but they can tell you there. Hopefully you get something more than just voicemails. Anyways if you thought Mesaba training was bad....well America West goes into EVERY DETAIL! we have to do evacuations on ALL the planes...its nuts. The instructors are awesome though. They are very strict on appearance. Better watch the make-up HAHAHAHA Well all take care of yourselves give me a ring if you can. I dont have any numbers. Sorry its been so long I miss all you and nothing will ever replace our training at Mesaba. I'll never forget it! Talk to you all soon I hope :) Be safe in all those storms....See ya!

Message from Joseph on Tue May 25 06:30:22 2004

Hey you all! Pam, please call me and let me know what is going on in Memphis. I would love to hear. She really is a very, unhappy person and it certainly shows in her work. Fortunately, I never had any problems with her, but.......Karen, no , she will not return my calls. I am a little dissapointed in her... she put me on the rehire list. I never did anything to get a bad name or anything like that. But you know guys, I have you all to think about it I ever decide to come to MSP or DTW. But right now that is a little hard. Who knows, maybe later.......just don't forget about me when I am able to move and want to come back......PAM...CALL ME. I WANT TO HEAR ABOUT CHARLOTTE...417-230-3242 . leave me your number if I am not there and I will call you back.....QUESTION? why won't they let her go.....I do not think the ones who need to know.......know.......she is costing a great deal of money by people quitting...MGT thinks its just the nature of the job...but there is more to it.....I know.....I was there...

Message from Karen on Mon May 24 11:06:53 2004

Hi you guys, I'm in Eau Claire on a long layover. We don't leave till 2:00 pm. The hotel is kind of crummy - our union filed a greivance or something about it so in June we start with a new hotel. One nice thing about this one is that there is a mall right next door with free internet (so here I am). I volunteered to be on the Scheduling Committee for the union, but I haven't heard back on that yet. I got a note in my box from my OE instructor congratulating me on one year and asking if I would help the union out with the web site. I haven't emailed her yet, but I will be happy to do that. Anything else new? Sure is a lot of weather around these days, isn't there? I think we'll be flying into more of it again today. Yesterday was the first time that I did not do a service because of turbulence. I set up the cart twice, and I made the announcement that I would try and the FO called and said put it back- it will get worse again. Oh well, at least the pax knew I tried! Joseph, any luck getting ahold of Charlotte? I guess a new class starts today- supposed to be 20 for MSP. I hope that's true!

Message from Pam on Sat May 22 19:07:36 2004

Nadine Tina just mentioned to me that you were putting this questionaire together about issues with Reserves, there was no offical letter just an e-mail to me. I still have my response, sorry but I DH back from MEM this afternoon and didn't feel like going all the way to the crew room, was so tired from my trip. They bumped me to FC ( a long story) anyway I heard more bad stuff about MEM, this is just so sad. I will probably be called tomorrow cause of the shortage here and will drop it off in your mailbox.

Message from Pam on Sat May 22 18:58:55 2004

Hey, just got back from MEM....Joseph I'm not sure you want to go back to MEM, why don't you go to MSP or DTW instead? There were 5 senior people quit just the last few days ago and rumor has it there are more quitting.......the reason is Charlotte! I guess they have had so many issues with her and nothing seems to be getting done about it so people are quitting, that is too bad. I flew with the MEM crew who are pretty senior and they are so discourged with what is going on down there, so many people have complained but again nothing is being addressed. We had a great three day trip flew to EWR, PNS for the over nights..the crew was great hey...there is a great Outlet Mall in Newark a must go to!!! I spent my month's per dium there but thats ok it was well worth it. Joseph I was in Springfield for about an hour today and was thinking about you, please consider coming to DTW!

Message from Nadine on Thu May 20 16:23:05 2004

happy 1 year >:) how did we do it??? karen thanks again for all your help! i leave tom at 9 am pam i wonder how tina fox founf out?? what did her letter say? joe try dtw hr if charlene will not respond i know they need people! :( i am sad that no one i know is in my rcg oh well maybe i'll make new frenz :) take care!

Message from Karen on Thu May 20 00:19:49 2004

Happy ONE YEAR to us, and a big fat raise too! Now we can get Buddy Passes, and we'll get one of those pins so we look cool (LOL)! Joseph, I had trouble getting a reply from Charlotte too, and she claimed that she had replied but I never got it, so I don't know what the deal is. I can't give out her cell number, but I looked up her regular office number on mymesaba and here it is: 901-922-0266. I will email it to you too in case you don't check this right away.

Message from Joseph on Wed May 19 08:20:51 2004

Happy ONE YEAR!Remember this time last year........Well, maybe this is premature......but just as I suspected...Charlotte will not return emails.........well.....maybe she is on vacation or something......if you talk or see her, tell her I would love to hear from her.

Message from Pam on Wed May 19 08:20:21 2004

HAPPY 1 YEAR !!!!!!!

Message from Pam on Wed May 19 08:09:14 2004

Hey Nadine Yes I did get the note and have filled it out, I just need to drop it in your box. Thanks so much for getting involved like this. I received a note from Tina Fox regarding what you are doing. We do need to get these issues resolved in the way the Reserves are used. I am planning on joining in the effort to make our next contract better for ALL......meaning that contract should apply to everyone! I'm glad you are getting a lot of responses. Karen made a valid point in saying that in the past Reserves didn't stay long enough for these problems to escalate, they either quit or were put on a line. Now that we have those who have been on reserve status for more then a year, there has been several problems that are not being addressed. There needs to be some changes regarding these problems and hopefully by doing so there won't be as much turn over.

Message from Nadine on Tue May 18 11:51:01 2004

hello i am back!!! :0 last week i wrked 6 days in a row!!!! pam did u get the letter from me in your mail box? i have been getting alot of feed back back hopefully i can chg some things about reserve! hi joe u should come back they need fa's everywhere we are sooo short! i am on vac right now i'm in chs at my grandma's house :) take care all!

Message from Pam on Sun May 16 08:13:58 2004

Yes Joseph it is so sad! Kim has been and going through a lot. I'm not sure if the e-mail address posted in accurate but you can try it. I'm sure it would be ok to just let her know that your thinking of her. Keep us updated on what you hear from Charlotte.

Message from Joseph on Sat May 15 13:01:40 2004

Pam That is soooooooo sad of Kim. I will email and support her. Do you think she will be ok if I do that.......do not want to upset her. I email Charlotte today. We will have to see, she might not want me to come back.....she can be sorta funny.....we will see.....no biggie

Message from Pam on Sat May 15 09:19:54 2004

Ok Karen I will call you Monday. Joseph did you mean Kim? Kim has cancer of the liver and is not doing well at all. Dora said she has gained some weight but that her recent test came back and it didn't look good. I hope you come back Joseph if you do you may not be on reserves very long which will be better. I'm going to re-occurant with crazy Nichole, that should be fun!!!!!!! The Lingeray queen!!! LOL

Message from Joseph on Fri May 14 18:43:46 2004

Thanks guys. I am thinking about it. I will talk with Charlotte. What is wrong with Lisa ? thinking about you all

Message from Karen on Fri May 14 17:09:32 2004

I suggest calling me at the Help Desk! I will be there Mon 12-8, Tue 12-8, and Wed 9-5. It's pretty easy to get through the first two days, the last day the phones can get quite busy.

Message from Pam on Fri May 14 15:12:58 2004

Thanks for the info Karen, but like you, I have so much going on and will probably bid for reserve too. My daughter graduates the 4th ( put in for vac and didn't get it) so I need to have Saturday's and Sunday's off for the month, plus we have re-occurant and I have so many open houses during the month.....seniorities applies for parents too!!LOL But for lines in July it does look pretty good. I heard too that those that got TDY for May was a little hard because the hotel they put you up in does not hold the room while the fa is away so they had to take everything with them when on a trip. I need to have weekends off for the month of June so what do you suggest?????

Message from Karen on Fri May 14 13:58:58 2004

Yes Pam, for sure the TDY will go to VERY senior people. I flew with a DTW FA this week that is TDY in CVG for May (enough abbreviations in one sentence?) and she said the reason that it is desirable and goes so senior is that the company puts the FA's up in the hotel in CVG for the whole month and they get per diem round the clock for the whole month, PLUS they are more senior there so they hold one of the better schedules there. But the bad news is that you forgot to count the green line people. They would get the bottom lines. Count the bottom 30 people as reserves and you can see that the line holders stop at #140. BUT there is probably at least one DTW FA that could hold a line but will bid reserve. That does happen. Take for example, ME. I can pretty much for sure hold a line in June (wow!) but I have to bid reserve I think (it's killing me!) because I need 3 Saturdays off for 4 weddings, a Sunday off for my in-laws 50th, and some days off the last week to go up to Brainerd to a resort with my husband's side of the family. I don't think I could pull it off with a line. Hopefully the opportunity will still be there in July! So anyway, for you, you should bid for a line just in case. I don't think it's likely for June, but look at July!!! All those green liners go to reserve and you should have a line then!!

Message from Pam on Fri May 14 07:37:57 2004

Karen, The seniority list just came out yesterday are you able to bid for a line this month? Looks like we won't be going together for reoccurant, the only one that is going the same time as myself is Lisa. I was called in to do a turn yesterday and ran into Dora she said Kim isn't doing very well, that is so sad. According to the seniority list it looks like I'm only three away from holding a line but there are openings for TDY to Cinci for the month of June and was wondering if 4 senior people get that do you think I will be able to bid?

Message from Karen on Thu May 13 19:14:25 2004

How nice to hear from Joseph! I just sent you an email Joseph. I have recommended that Joseph send an email to Charlotte and tell her he wants to come back. Pam, I know what you are saying about the PBS. It isn't necessarily simple but it can be simple too. If a person's desire is simple, it's very simple. Yes it has a lot of options but they don't all have to be used. For example, if you were a commuter, you would like to be able to bid for trips with a late show time. Most people won't make use of that option, but for the person that needs it, it's a life saver. The problem comes when people want EVERYTHING and they lose sight of the fact that PBS uses numerical scoring to sort out your desires. Look at the June News for Crews (online now, and in our bid packet that we are getting soon). They have a 2 page example of an bidding mistake by an actual FA. It's an example of what I see all the time at the Help Desk. She didn't want CDO's but she did want: Trips less than 4 days, trips less than 3 days, Saab trips, and most credit for least block. So a Saab CDO would score 4 times for the things she did want, WAY outscoring the fact that she didn't want CDO's. So yes, it can seem complicated, but just remember it's a mathematical formula. The other thing is that some people are not realistic to what they can get at their seniority. Paul (PBS) bids like #80 and he has never gotten a specific pairing that he has requested, so it's just not realistic to expect to do that unless you are very senior. Well you get the idea. But anyway, I would be happy :) to talk to you about your bidding when the time comes!

Message from Pam on Thu May 13 08:07:18 2004

Joseph I hope you come back.......as you have probably read, it's been crazy lately but I do love this job! Karen would be good at seeing what you should do about coming back......she is so in the know LOL! You could probably e-mail Lona and ask her what you should do to. I bet they would take you back in a heart beat! As far as me not coming to visit, I have wanted to ever sense we talked about it but between work and my family, it's been hard. I did visit my Sister a couple of weeks ago which was nice but until I start holding a line and have more days off in a row is when I will come visit. You know though a couple of months ago I was flying in and out of MEM. I had finished my trip and was getting ready to come home when I passed the gate for Branson. It was leaving and asked the gate agent if there were any seats left, she said they had lots of seats. I almost boarded and surprised you but didn't have anyway of contacting you to see if you were even home. Karen I know they have had problems with the PBS I think what the major complaint is, it's so complicated and with the lack of training that they gave everyone fa's have been frusterated. I was looking over our PBS training guide and practicing on bidding (thinking positive here,) it really is confusing. I know we have to keep it simple when bidding but I feel the system has too many options. My thought is they keep telling you to keep it simple then why did they install one that isn't??? I will definately be calling you when we are able to bid for lines!!!

Message from Joseph on Wed May 12 23:15:48 2004

Hey Pam, Karen and Nadine Just wanted to say hello. All is well here . The season has certainly kicked off to a busy start. Pam, I thought you were coming to visit Depp and I ? You get to come here for nothing and once again, you could stay with us. I am starting to miss flying. Wonder what I would do if I wanted to start flying again. I was up for rehire if I wanted to come back. Just curious. Karen, how would I let them know. Do you think They would be interested? I know that I would have to go to training again, are can I come back before my year is over with? Charlotte liked me a lot...Have you heard how one would do that. Do they do that as well. Karen, you seem to be in the know since you are there. Could you find out. I think Depp and I are moving to Memphis soon and it would be easier to work as a FA since I do not have to commute. Karen, could you find out the legalites of that? you can email me at jpacqt@aol.com. would Charlotte be the one to make that decision, or Julie at HR. Just thinking about it, thats all. Miss you guys. Take care

Message from Karen on Wed May 12 22:22:39 2004

Good for you Pam! That is great news. I'm real curious about the complaints about PBS. I mean I know people are bad mouthing it all the time, but I can tell you first hand that people just don't know how to bid! And the rumors start flying - you just can't believe everything you hear! Example: Months ago a pilot told me that our #1 FA did not get what she wanted using PBS. You think, that's impossible. But the other side to that story is that she freely admits, and now chuckles, that she bid an illegal schedule! Well, illegal in the sense that the computer could never award it, based on our contract. She wanted to work Mon-Wed-Fri, and our contract states that any days off have to be 2 or more in a row (except for first and last of month). If you want to rearrange and trip trade to have just one, fine, but the computer CAN NOT award it. That's just one example. At the Help Desk I constantly talk to people that do not realize that they are bidding opposite of what they want. Sometimes they put MIN 75 hrs, when they mean MAX 75 hrs. They think that the word MIN means they won't get as many hours. Or they request the RJ in such a way as to cancel out their days off - the computer can award them more points by loading them up with RJ trips than if they got the days off that they request. I could go on and on. Oh well... anyway I am curious about that meeting in Montreal! Congrats again on rattling the right cages. That is the right way to handle it.

Message from Pam on Wed May 12 20:26:27 2004

Ok all I'm rattling some cages here. I received a response from one of the Union reps based here in Dtw., she has forwarded the e-mail to a couple of people, one who is going to Montreal for a PBS meeting regarding all the grievances that they have received about the system. The person who handles fa's grievances here in DTW will be getting back with me and in the mean time I will be writing a formal complaint regarding what happened. They have asked me to share what happened so that we can express our concerns and hopefully when our contract is up there will be some major changes. I will keep you updated on what happens......We do need to voice our opinion and concerns regarding the way things are happening.

Message from Pam on Wed May 12 15:30:32 2004

Yes I did tell them I was tried....should I have used the word fatique instead???? I e-mailed one of the union reps that I know and asked her what I need to do. I guess I just want to not only get to the bottom of this but maybe, just maybe it will help everyone who is on Reserves now and in the future. The only thing the kept me from nearly collapsing was the Saturday trip we arrived in CWA at noon so I just went to my room and slept the rest of the day. I had been away from home for 5 nights with early shows every day and you just don't sleep as well when your away. I don't mind it when I'm on a two or three day but after four it starts to really wear ya down. PLUS the FA I flew with on the RJ didn't want to work first class. I finally told her when I found out that they had extended my trip that she is going to have to work it. I don't mind working first really except 80% of the time we were full so not only was my trip extended, I went from working the RJ to the SAAB, early shows, it was just crazy.

Message from Karen on Wed May 12 13:36:25 2004

Oh yeah... that reminds me. Tim (union pres) did say "if you ever feel like you are too fatigued to fly, you can be taken off the schedule, because when you use that word - FATIGUE - they worry about lawsuits if something would happen". At the time I was still on probation and I thought no way am I "refusing" any flying until my 9 months are up. But now that they are, yes that's true, that would have been the exact situation you were in. You were basically telling them that you were too fatigued to fly and they made you!

Message from Pam on Wed May 12 11:43:19 2004

Thanks Karen I will start looking on the website. I did call my manager Tom (really nice guy) and told him what happened, he said he was going to call the manager in scheduling and talk to him about what happened. He really didn't say anything much to me but he did say it was something that he definately needed to talk to them about. I told him that it was getting to the point of a safety issue, that if our pilots aren't allowed to fly that kind of schedule why is it allowed for Reserves. He said I have just cause for being upset and sympathized with me. I will let you know what happened.

Message from Karen on Wed May 12 09:36:22 2004

Pam, did you know our union has a website - I mean, just for Mesaba? One day a while back I saw a flier laying around the crew room. Go to www.mesabaafa.com - then you need a password: afa4msb ... I just tried clicking around looking for who's on the Reserve committee and I can't find it anywhere, but I KNOW there is one! But there are other email addresses on there so I'm sure it would be a good place to start. They do have a notice on there that they are looking for people to help on the Scheduling committee, but it sounds like that wouldn't affect reserve. It's just for helping to ensure that they make "good trips" etc. I'm sort of intrigued with the thought of volunteering for that.... hmm... but anyway, I think you definitely want to talk to the Reserve committee. I think the problem is going to be that they did not violate the contract with you, but it's something to change for next time the contract is ammended. But who knows, since it's not really addressed in the contract at all, maybe you can rattle some cages and get a sort of "understanding" put into place so that doesn't happen again.

Message from Pam on Wed May 12 07:21:33 2004

Karen do you happen to know who I can contact with the reserve union? I am going to file a complaint about what happened, I didn't know we had a Reserve Union committee. If someone doesn't say anything then nothing will be changed. Everyone keeps telling me to hang in there and that it will get better but I say that if you had to be on reserves more then a year and had gone though what all of has gone through, this is why we are loosing so many it's starting to get out of control. Nadine I think MEM stopped doing the CDO's even though some of the trips seem like they are. I know they have a few where you will do a turn then go for the overnight but do believe it's within the 9 hours rest.

Message from Karen on Wed May 12 06:17:45 2004

Pam, you are so right. There is so much that doesn't apply to reserves. The 30/7 rule for the pilots is a FAR and for us it is not. Meaning that if you are a line holder and you want to make lots of money, you may OPT to pick up that many hours. I do not feel the intent of that rule was to declare open season on the reserves. The original computer-generated lines cannot schedule someone more than 30 in 7, but there's nothing wrong with scheduling a reserve over that. Oh wait. Correction. This is what Tim, our union president, explained to me when that happened to me: Reserves are SCHEDULED 3.75 hrs a day. That's what you are SCHEDULED. That's how they get around the 30/7 rule with us. Isn't that a load of crap? And he was actually pretty defensive of that interpretation and didn't seem to see a need to change it. The union has a Reserve committee - I suppose they are the ones that we should talk to. You know, the reason it probably has gone on this long is that people didn't used to be on reserve this long, and once they get off reserve they don't care what the contract does or doesn't do for the reserves. Until it happens to you, you are not that aware of it. I'm glad you had a nice talk with Janel. I really like her. When I am in the office with those guys it seems like they are trying their hardest to do right by the reserves but they can't help what comes up. They really are nice people! Nadine - this high speed of yours... what!!!!??!! You had a 2:00 show, then a high speed? Are you sure your overnight rest was less than 9 hours, with crew on duty overnight? Trust me, they would not schedule you an illegal pattern on purpose. Twice I have caught illegal parts of my pattern and they changed it. Remember what we learned in training: You are the one responsible for staying legal... and that is a FAR!

Message from Pam on Mon May 10 20:13:14 2004

ok got to thinking here.....Nadine is MEM doing CDO's again? I have a question, even though most of these contract rules apply to those holding lines, don't we still have to fall within the guidlines of the FAA? Janelle explained the 30/7 rule to me which bottom line applies to pilots (go figure that one out??) and also when they are doing the schedules for the following months. I don't know it just seems to me that everything I read in the contract book with the exception of the 11 hour rule does not apply to reserves and we do need to ratify the contract when it is up for negotations!

Message from Pam on Mon May 10 20:05:43 2004

Oh Gezz Nadine.....this is insane!!!! I talked to sched today to help me get a day off for my daughters prom (put in for gdo and didn't get it) Janelle was so nice, we talked for a long time and told me that the class that graduated in March, started out with around 27 people and now there are like 4 left. Those working in scheduling really do try and help us out, it's those that are holding lines who are the ones that cause problems by calling in sick all the time. They still have to get a crew together for these flights that's their job. Nadine I hope your ok that cdo is not right and is illigal

Message from Nadine on Mon May 10 17:28:48 2004

hey all its me pam i feel your pain i dh to mem they are making me do a cdo how? my show was at 2pm now i do a cdo and tomarrow i star a 3 day!!!!! crazy i can't wait for a line!!!! pam i am putting something together it should be in your box this week hopfully i can chg things hows the box going??? i am off to my illegal high speed!!!

Message from Karen on Mon May 10 15:51:47 2004

Oh Pam! I'm so sorry to hear about that! We have to get something in the next contract to protect the reserves against that much flying in a 7 day (or less!) period! They can't schedule the line holders that heavy - I don't see why they can schedule us like that! I can't believe your manager didn't approve it! Hang in there, please! Help is on the way!

Message from Pam on Mon May 10 11:51:52 2004

Sorry that message is from me I clicked Karen's name instead..........I must be still tired!

Message from Karen on Mon May 10 11:51:07 2004

Hey you two. Karen so sorry I didn't call you back. This has been one week from hell! When I got to the hotel sched had faxed the rest of my trip.......I couldn't believe what I saw! Six days of flying, I blocked 35 hours. I kept showing this to other FA and my crew everyone just couldn't believe it. Then I was suppose to DH back to dtw yesterday evening around 8. There was bad weather coming in and the sky was getting pretty black but they boarded us anyway. We taxi out when the CA announces that there has been a delay due to the weather in dtw. We sat in the plane for 3 HOURS!!!! Finally they bring us back to the gate now all the flights are backed up and I finally got home at 3am this morning. It is no wonder why there is so much turn over with this company!! I called sched to see if I could drop the last turn yesterday so that I could come home early. They called my supervisor Mary to get the ok and she said no. I couldn't believe that, they had someone there to do the turn I was so tired from all the flying.....you two if we don't start holding lines pretty soon I too am going to have to do something else. I love this job but I will not be treated like that.

Message from Karen on Thu May 6 16:49:44 2004

Well, I was able to catch up with Pam in the DTW crew room, and that was so nice! Pam, did you make it to Florida? Later that night I was on my LONG dinner break at DTW again, and CS called and diverted me to GRB to cover a FA whose deadhead flight was late. At the time my phone rang I had just paid for a hot meatball sandwich and large pop! What timing! Luckily I was flying on the jet so I could actually eat it during the flight. So that was the end of my original trip - someone else covered the rest. I stayed the night in DTW and deadheaded home in the morning. Then Monday morning we non-rev'd to Vegas. I successfully picked the flight - lots of empty seats (yeah!) unlike last week. We came back on the red eye last night/this morning - lots of empty seats again, and we even got First Class on that leg. Vegas was fun - and HOT: 100 degrees. I experienced momentary greatness at Blackjack, but overall cannot claim to be ahead, but it was pretty fun. Sure takes the bite out of losing when you can fly out there for next to nothing! How are you guys doing? Working hard still?

Message from Nadine on Tue May 4 14:32:31 2004

too bad about the bonus checks :( so how have you all been??? take care

Message from Karen on Fri Apr 30 15:00:44 2004

Ok Pam! I hope it works out! Nadine I think you have to have a year of service before the last day of the quarter to be eligible for the checks. So for the quarter ending March 30, we would not qualify, but next time we will.

Message from Nadine on Fri Apr 30 13:55:39 2004

hello all karen sorry i am wrking out of mem pam the box is in the crew room when you walk in look to the left on that little table i have like 90 hrs for the month myself good news coming soon for reserves i am putting something together pam you should be getting something in your box soon pam why don't you post a sign on the 2 boards telling people about the box? take care fly safe do you know if we are getting bonus checks? they come out soon

Message from Pam on Fri Apr 30 11:16:31 2004

Hey Karen.......I will try and catch you tomorrow going to Florida again and trying to get on the 10:00 flight. If I don't get on then I will call and we can have lunch together. I'm listed on the next flight but hopefully will get on that earlier one.

Message from Karen on Fri Apr 30 10:38:47 2004

Hey you guys, I'm in DTW! Will be back twice more today, but not for long. Tomorrow I have two LONG breaks here: at 9:30 am, and at 4:00 pm. Hope to see you guys!!! My cell # is 763-443-6103 if you are here and don't see me in the crew room.

Message from Pam on Wed Apr 28 09:26:04 2004

Nadine where did you see the box? I was in yesterday and didn't see it. I didn't hear about the fire, that must have been scary and too hope that I don't have to deal with it. Was on a three day but the FA called in and picked up her trip so they sent me home. I am already at 85 hours for the month plus will have a good predium check cause of the long overnight trips I had. Haven't ran into any of the new hires yet I still don't know who is new and who isn't yet well at least most of them. I am however starting to fly with crews that I have flown with before which makes it nice cause I'm finally making some friends......lol I talked with a Lois who does the schedules for re occurance and she said that we will be going around the 7th of June. I don't know if I will be with you because I'm going the following week. My daughter graduates that Saturday before we leave and wanted to wait a week so I can study. Did you get your study packet?

Message from Nadine on Mon Apr 26 10:45:18 2004

scarey! i hate the saabs pam i saw the box hopefully no one moves it i am flying of course i have vac in may i am debating picking up extra flying and getting money instead of vac it's a toss up! take care all

Message from Karen on Sun Apr 25 22:22:54 2004

For the longest time you DTW people were outlasting the rest of the bases, but time has finally caught up with your base too. Wow, Angie too. Just like everyone said it would be. We have 3 green liners right now here in Minnie, and I met one yesterday (she deadheaded on my flight, then on the return leg I deadheaded on hers - LOL), and I flew with another one today. She is so nice and seems like she will stay and at least give it a good try for a while - YEAH! Oh guess what - there was an engine failure on a Saab yesterday. The crew was so rattled they got to go home and pick their trip back up today. That's why I deadheaded back from RHI last night - I was covering the FA's MSP-RHI leg. My pilots were covering for those pilots involved too. Yuck - hope I never have to deal with that!

Message from Nadine on Fri Apr 23 14:06:25 2004

kim transferred to mem 2 months ago someone took the box??? thats meani finally got trained after doing 2 open houses lol it was fun i can't wait for recurnt! fly safe

Message from Pam on Fri Apr 23 07:36:55 2004

Nadine I'm so sorry about your kitty!! I have two and a dog and know how upsetting it is to loss them. I had a cat for 18 years and had to put him to sleep, it was so upsetting. I guess Betsy did quit also I talked to Angie and she is quitting too. She has another job and a new boyfriend and doesn't like to be away so much. Yes our class is dwindling down looks like the only one's left in DTW will be Dora, Heather, Nadine, myself and Lisa who is pregnant so don't know if she will be back after the baby is born. I'm not sure what is going on with Kimmy, I talked to Dora a few weeks ago and said she isn't doing very well. Nadine I don't know what is going on with the Troop box. I sat one up in the crew room but someone took it down. It was very upsetting, I couldn't get in touch with our Hub Director to find out what is going on. I keep calling with no return calls.

Message from Nadine on Thu Apr 22 14:59:33 2004

karen it is backward i did the open house with no training and tom they are training me to do open houses lol crazy huh? thanks karen i hope there is a kitty heaven there was a big turn out today the next class gets out tom yeah lines soon i hope

Message from Karen on Wed Apr 21 19:30:07 2004

Sorry about your loss Nadine. I know how it is with pets - I've been through it many times myself. It's never easy. Your doing the Open House tomorrow and they're training you on Friday? What does training involve? You've done Open Houses before, right? So the training is not for the Open House, what does it involve? Sounds interesting, just curious.

Message from Nadine on Wed Apr 21 14:27:13 2004

hello all i have sad news my lil boy my 20 year old cat smkey passed yesterday :( i am so thankful work was understanding cuz i am in no shape to work i have to do the open house tomarrow and they finally are going to train me on fri so no fl this wknd i spent $300.00 on a funeral don't laugh he was my baby for 20 years i owed it to him :( so pam what's happening with the military boxes?

Message from Karen on Tue Apr 20 16:48:27 2004

I heard Dora was not going back to NW because the offer was only till January. Too bad if Betsy is gone! What a sweetie! I talked to Nicole yesterday on the phone, she called the Help Desk, so that was fun to talk to her again. Just like people said, our class is shrinking like crazy. Now if the new hires will just stick around for a while. The last class they started with 26, graduated 12, and now it's down to about half that. What the he**!

Message from Pam on Tue Apr 20 14:50:17 2004

Karen yes you did so maybe in May I will try and bid for a line and see what happens. It is still very confusing when I was playing with the PBS bidding system. I need to recap on how to do this. Your phone system sounds like what the hospital had when I worked at the the help desk there. You would be "auxed" out and not even know it until you realized that no phone calls were coming in. Good Luck Nadine on flying to Florida. I talked to an agent there in Tampa while waiting to board and asked him why is it so hard to NR there. He said mainly it's because of the cruises which makes since. He said that after May it will be much easier to fly down there cause the cruises stop due to Hurricane season. It was so crazy when we arrived at the airport, I have never seen, even at Christmas an airport so crowded. They had lines set up like something from Disney World where you would go back and forth through these mazes. I finally had to use my employee perks and talked a TSA agent into letting me go through the employee security area. I hated to do that but knew if I didn't get on that flight then I would be stranded down there (not a bad place to be stranded) but I knew that it would be hard to get back home, all the flights were booked till the middle of this week. I didn't want to take a chance and have that be against me. I guess I come from the old school where I don't like to call in unless absolutely necessary, you never know when you really do need to call in so I don't. Nadine I don't know about Betsey the last time I talked to her she was doing fine. I will call her tonight and find out what is going on. The last I heard Dora was planning on going back to NW and was suppose to start sometime in May.

Message from Karen on Tue Apr 20 09:11:08 2004

Pam, yes I stepped out for just a minute to go to the pass bureau and buy passes for Vegas - we are going to try to go in May. Paul told me you called. I can't believe the phone rang and rang, we were there the whole time. Sometimes if the phone doesn't get used in a while, it "logs out", so I always keep checking to make sure it says "agent: ready", but Paul was sitting in that chair so I can't say for sure! I guess unfortunately I would say you can press #2 and talk to the crew scheduler and ask if we are really on the phone or if the phone isn't working right - they are about 4 feet away. (Just don't tell a hundred people to do that!) If you can't get through for that long something is wrong. There was a time yesterday where I thought it was weird it didn't ring for so long because the 19th is busy, so I walked over to Paul and hit a few buttons, and sure enough it said "agent: not ready", so maybe that was the span of time. But I thought it says "there is no agent available" rather than ring and ring. I tell you, those phones are complicated!! So about your question. Yes we can bid for regular line features, if that is what you are asking. Just in case you get a line, because you never really know when it might happen, because some senior people bid reserve. I don't ever remember NOT being able to access those features, as you say. June I might get a line, unless they increase the number of reserves, which is very possible because they should, but I will bid reserve just in case because I need so much time off in June. Did I answer your question?

Message from Nadine on Tue Apr 20 08:26:54 2004

whoa alot has happened since i have been gone :) joe hi agian sadee good luck to you! mabey we can all get together when we go to rcs pam i am trying to go to fl this wknd i hope we can go! i am on high speeds this week is betsy gone?? she is not in the bid packet pam i am not sure of the # of people it changes every day! i hope we get a line soon!!! is dora still going back to nwa? i knew about mary and shaun on fri my friend and i picked up a trip together to portland she just signed her boyfriend up as a dp so he came with us she checked the loads there but forget to check for him coming back he was stranded for 3 days all flights were over sold he had to pay 150.00 and catch a 22 hr bus ride home :( crazy non rev'n is not very fun lol fly safe!

Message from Pam on Tue Apr 20 08:20:14 2004

Nice to hear from you Sadee! I too am sorry for what happened to you and I hope that something better will come along soon for you. Karen I tried calling you at the Help Desk yesterday but you had stepped out, Paul said you would be right back but when I called again the phone just kept ringing. I did talk to Paul regarding my question but I'm still confused. When I was setting up my schedule I noticed that I was able to access the actual bidding line and save it too. In the past I was unable to do that and was thinking that I had the ability to bid for a actual line. He said that wasn't the case that I was still on reserve. In the past I was only able to save what was available for reserves only, ie GDO and days off. I know we are getting close to bidding for a line he said possibly this summer. How will we know when we are able to actually bid for a line? I can't seem to get a straight answer from anyone.

Message from Karen on Mon Apr 19 08:50:25 2004

Hey Sadee! So nice to hear from you! I'm glad you got the unemployment bennies you were entitled to. I still can't believe that whole thing, what happened to you. What a shame :( Annette is the one that left, not Lisa. Lisa right now has the entire MSP FA group plus CVG and we are hiring like crazy, so the poor girl is burning it at both ends. And now her dad just died suddenly. They hired a new mgr (from the outside) to replace Annette and he had to go through new hire training first of course. He walked out of class after about 2 days of training!!! So now they are looking for a mgr all over again. Sadee, I hope you find something and thanks for keeping in touch!

Message from SaDee on Sun Apr 18 18:44:07 2004

Hi everybody! I just thought I'd check in and see what's new with all of you. Didn't read every word but it’s good to get updated on what’s going on with you guys. It is cool that Joseph still checks on you guys too! I was just in AZ for another long visit trying out the insurance field sort of an internship but even after passing this horrible state exam I just don't think it's the right fit for me so I'm back to MN for now. I was there for over a month and it’s just so nice there! I finally qualified for unemployment because an investigation proved that I was discharged due to no misconduct on my part. That made me feel better but I still lost my FA job. Shheesh! I’m still so sad. And now, Karen, it sounds like Lisa Lang might not be there anymore? I was trying to sort through who’s gone now from all your guys messages. Also, I notice an opening in MSP for Inflight Manager on the Mesaba web site. Anyway, I'm going to check out what kind of training I can get from the Work Force Center and try to figure out a career for myself. heh heh heh Humm, computer programmer to FA what next? I wish I could be a nurse actually but I get grossed out too easy! heh heh heh Byeee Take care all of you! Have fun! Glad to hear you are flying for fun too!!!!!!

Message from Karen on Fri Apr 16 20:12:58 2004

Sorry Nadine, forgot to answer your question about the Help Desk - I'll be there Sat & Sun 12-8, and Mon 9-5.

Message from Pam on Fri Apr 16 08:58:33 2004

Joseph again glad to hear from you. Yes I knew about Mary and Shawn. When I ran into Mary she was going to try and fly out there for the open house but was having trouble with her schedule, I assume she got it worked out if they are moving. I heard that America West wasn't such a good place to work and they pay less then we do but I do wish them luck and hope it works out for them. Moving to Arizonia would be great, just getting out of the deep freeze is worth it. So Karen your a "new woman" huh? Thats funny about Janelle introducing herself to you! I just called crew voice and they have a three day trip for me but I haven't heard from them yet. My report time is 2 but I'm calling them. I had a great trip last week. Was on the jet and had a long layover in Philly. The other FA, Casey from MEM and I went downtown to the historical district, it was great. We saw the Liberty Bell, Independance Hall, Old Church Cemetery where Ben Franklin is buried, and the Old Church where George Washington attended, that is a beautiful church and had dinner in China Town. If you guys ever have that trip there is this little resturant on the from the hotel that has the best Philly Steak sandwiches I have ever had the place is call Jim's. It's not much to look at but the food is very good.

Message from Karen on Fri Apr 16 08:32:34 2004

Thanks for visiting us on this board again, Joseph! That is really some news all right - wow! I wish them well, I bet they really enjoy it. There are many days I would like to move to Arizona!! Isn't it amazing how many trainees/new hires quit and get fired! I hope we have enough of them survive from this next class so we can move us up some on the seniority list. I can't believe for May we are only having 16 reserves in MSP! You guys in DTW have over 30 - used to be we had the same number. Are they going to have to use reserves from DTW to cover MSP? If I move up with the next two classes I could see a line by June, but I'll have to bid reserve for June! Can you believe it? I have FOUR weddings and a weeks vacation that month! No way would I get all that off with a line. Oh! I saw Dora yesterday! We swapped planes in Peoria! Her flight was late getting in so we were out on the ramp ready to climb in when she and her crew got off. She goes - "your hair!" ... I should warn you guys I have grown my hair longer and I look different. Some people don't even recognize me! I went to visit the instructors and Janel introduced herself to me! Ha ha!

Message from Joseph on Fri Apr 16 07:21:47 2004

Hey Guys. Heard from Mary yesterday. Did you know she and Shaun are leaving. FA with American West. start training for 8 weeks and moving to Arizona. Hope you all had a good easter

Message from Pam on Thu Apr 15 18:10:52 2004

Hey you two....Joseph was good to hear from you. I have been off for four days and took my daughter to Florida to visit my sister. We flew down Easter Sunday (night) and just got back today. We took the last two seats this morning, if I didn't get on that flight then I would probably be down there till the middle of next month!!! All flights have been oversold, the agent told me it has been so crazy the last few months so we were pretty lucky I guess. I have a three day starting tomorrow, would love to call off but it isn't a bad trip. So we lost 5 new people already? Nadine how many are coming out of this next class?

Message from Nadine on Wed Apr 14 17:43:46 2004

my badge was renewed as well i have all acces and to the hanger as well so june it is-hey karen the month you got vac how many days did u end up with for the month? it was funnt when i got in my mng called me into the office and asked for my badge-then cut it up!! then he laughed and gave me my new one! it was pretty scarey lol so i wonder where pams been? so when are you at the help desk?

Message from Karen on Tue Apr 13 19:58:16 2004

Hey I see that the seniority list is out for May and we don't have recurrent! I thought we would have it in May before our anniversary date, but maybe it's before our graduation date! Then we won't have it until June! That must be the case apparently! Our badges expire in May so that's why I thought it was going to be in May. I already got mine renewed because they needed to make it work for getting me into the PBS Help Desk job, but everyone else would need theirs renewed before recurrent. More waiting for recurrent!

Message from Nadine on Tue Apr 13 15:12:26 2004

i hope we are together too! pam what happening with the box and all? where ya been karen they have been working me to death i started a 3 day today well i am off fly safe :)

Message from Karen on Mon Apr 12 16:12:32 2004

5 left for DTW? We lost a lot in MSP from the last class after they graduated. One lady, who the instructors thought was great, quit right after her OE and said "it just wasn't for her" -- !!! --- How do you go through all that testing and everything and just decide against it?! I hope there are some MSP left in the current class! Last week they actually made me work!! LOL - I did high speeds just about all week. Now I'm on reserve for 4 days then back to the PBS Help Desk. When the bid package comes out on Thursday we'll see when we have recurrent! I hope we are together!!

Message from Nadine on Mon Apr 12 14:16:36 2004

hey where ya all been? how was everyones easter? well i worked and my mom was on my flight and so was my cat! lol i went to chs i had 50 min on the ground i saw my grandpparents i got lunch and an easter basket i took my cat to my meme's cuz i work too much so he's down there til i get a line out of the last class there are only 5 left in det! i hope the next ones stay longer in dtw 3 senior people quit this month they are sick of the schedules and they never get what they bid for do you know there are people that have been here 3 years still on reserve????i would die!!! take care hope to see you all soon at recurrent!! fly safe

Message from Nadine on Thu Apr 8 12:03:53 2004

hey joseph how ya been? good to hear from you! i have already blocked 30 hrs for this month!! i have rr tomarrow :( last fri too! the open house went well alot of people were turned away have met a couple of the new people they seem nice hope they stay the next class gets out in 9 days!! we are moving up soon enough i saw heather she got a high speed line this month! i couldn't do it though i need my sleep take care all fly safe!

Message from Joseph on Wed Apr 7 07:08:47 2004

Hi Everyone Karen...........been keeping up with that story.. Bless her heart, she seems so confused now. I will keep her and the family in my prayers. I hope all is well with the three of you and wishing you all a joyous Easter.......the most wonderful time of the year. Happy Flying!

Message from Karen on Tue Apr 6 14:20:02 2004

Well they are finally making me work now too! Doing high speeds - 3rd in a row tonight, and then I still have 2 more reserve days. You know you're in for it when they call you on "Day 1 of 6"!! As far as our local "honor student turned criminal" the word on the street is that it was stemming from boyfriend problems. I didn't even realize she was still dating the guy she dated in high school, but now find out that's why she transferred to Madison her sophomore year - 'cause he goes there. But he broke up with her last summer (after she transferred, but before classes actually started) and they got back together, then broke up again several times, and it must have been one sided. They are not saying this is what is behind Audrey's actions, but it sure looks likely. Still not normal, by any stretch of the imagination! She will be facing charges like obstructing justice, or whatever, and she'll probably be stuck with the bill for the search which included helicopters and police dogs, totally over $75,000 and still growing. We are still shaking our heads, and I am still "dreaming" about this every night!

Message from Pam on Mon Apr 5 20:44:38 2004

Hi to you "both" LOL! Karen I watched the news about Audrey the other morning, that is just bazarre. Why is the big question I guess. According to the news and what you had noted why would someone like her who had all this going for her want to do something like that? Your right Karen, guess you never know do you? This job is sure opening my eyes about people, I never realized before what a sheltered life I lived! LOL Nadine I don't know about reoccurant what I did hear was that the test is some what silly. The FA I flew with last week told me she was almost jumping out of her chair cause she was so angry regarding the stupid questions. One was "What is located in the closet of the SAAB?" I thought at first there are no closets on the SAAB but then realized that on the B models there is actually a closet with safety equipment. This FA hasn't flown on the SAAB's in a long time so she had forgotten a lot of the SAAB safety equipment. Nadine I will hopefully have the box sat up soon. I met with Stan who is the Hub Director and he will meet with Mesaba's Spirit committee this week. As soon as I get the the info I will post where the box will be sit up. Newslaunch will also have notify where it will be as well. I did get your friend's addy and will post it on our website so that he can start receiving letters and cards from out group. I'm off for a couple of days then back on again and yes I am working A LOT!

Message from Nadine on Mon Apr 5 13:54:53 2004

hey no new news????

Message from Nadine on Sat Apr 3 15:08:19 2004

i saw that!!! crazy!! so how are you both i am doing the open house on mon! any word on our recurrent? i am ready for our raise next month!!! take care

Message from Karen on Fri Apr 2 21:06:43 2004

Don't know if you guys saw it on the news (I just got done watching it on Dateline) but the case of our friend, Audrey Seiler - the missing, then found, college student, has turned totally bazarre. You probably heard - she staged the whole thing - she was never abducted! It's unbelievable! I'm in shock, as is everyone in our town that knows her. I cannot emphasize enough what a straight arrow she was in high school. This is so out of character for her. They say that they have moved her to a mental facility now, which is good because apparently she needs a lot of help. I can't imagine that she put her parents through all that. And all the people from our town that dropped their lives, missed work & school to search for her - making the 6 hr drive to Madison... and people that donated money. We were all set to send a check to the fund right before she was found. Unreal. I guess you never know! She's famous around the country now, and our little town of Rockford, Minnesota is crawling with press wanting to talk to anyone that knows her and the family. Very weird story.

Message from Nadine on Fri Apr 2 05:46:04 2004

okay pam! so when will the board be up? i am putting justins add in your box today he just took pics and they are being sent to his mom she is sending them to me when she gets them karen great news!!! i am glad she is safe! have they been working you both alot? i have rr today :( i had a 2 day yesterday but i was sick so i called off do you know if they dock my pay? is mary still around? i have seen dora betsy and lisa lately but no one else i wonder when i recrnt will be well i am gonna take a nap take care be safe!

Message from Karen on Wed Mar 31 21:37:17 2004

Thanks for the prayers - they've been answered!!! Audrey was found safe today! She had been abducted at knife point and they are still looking for the guy. cnn.com has the story. It's a great day!!!

Message from Pam on Wed Mar 31 07:18:49 2004

Karen I sent out lots of prayer requests yesterday for Audry and her family. Have you heard update? Nadine I was working with Newslaunch and News for Crews yesterday and so this should be published for the May issue. I am putting up a poster board and asking anyone who has a soldier serving to bring in a picture I will post it on our "Portraits of Patriots" board. They are telling employees that they can either post the picture themselves or comat/put in my mail box. Nadine if you don't mind could you check my mail box from time to time for pictures. If there are some in the box would you mind putting them on the board for me? I just want to try and get them up on board as soon as we get them. I'll have tape in my box. I'm glad that your friend is looking foward to receiving things from home, just get their addresses and we will try and get cards/letters/donations to them as soon as we start receiving donations. Karen I'm going to hold off putting a donation box there. I want to see how this will take off here cause I don't want to get in over my head yet. I don't have alot of people helping me right now. Hopefully this will be successfull and we can get groups of volunteers to help send the donations.

Message from Nadine on Tue Mar 30 09:57:22 2004

karen i am sorry hope all goes well!!! pam my boyfriend is sooo excited he's still taking requests there are over 2000 people on board i'll get thank you cards and we can post them and as soon as they get a list together i'll put it in your mail box thanks again pam for setting this up they deserve it! they are keeping us all safe!also i forgot the add i'll put it in your box with the list!!! god bless you and keep you safe!!!!

Message from Pam on Tue Mar 30 08:08:25 2004

Karen this is awful! I will send out lots of prayer request.

Message from Karen on Tue Mar 30 07:59:41 2004

The lead story on all the newcasts here in MN is about a missing college student. Today it was on Good Morning America too. She is a friend of ours. She graduated 2 years behind my daughter at the school I worked at, and I worked with her mother at the school too. It's a small town where everyone knows everyone. Her brother is a junior at the high school now. She is a straight A student - an absolutely solid girl. In high school she was president of the National Honor Society, a Homecoming Queen candidate, captain of the volleyball team, captain of the basketball team, in the band... the list goes on and on. Truly a well rounded girl. Her name is Audrey Seiler and she is a student at Madison in Wisconsin. They have surveillance tape of her walking out the apt building at 2:30 am, but she didn't take her purse or anything - so my personal theory is that she was going to get something out of her car. More info & a picture at this web site: www.findaudrey.wisc.edu

Message from Pam on Tue Mar 30 07:27:11 2004

Thanks Nadine for your interest in wanting to help me with this project. What we will do is set up the box there with the flyer explaining what this is. Karen that is what y ou can do for me in MSP is set up the box with the flyer. Then once we start collecting donations hopefully people will also post their soldier's address and we will start putting them together and send. What we also have done is send two or three to say your friend and then he would distribute the stuff to everyone. Also letters, cards, post cards would be great for anyone interested in writing a soldier. Thanks you two for your interest and Karen glad you had a great vacation!!!

Message from Karen on Mon Mar 29 14:32:41 2004

We flew to San Juan and there was no way that was going to work Space Available. Since it was for a cruise and there was no way we could arrive late we went Positive Space. Luckily my husband's business VISA has frequent flier miles we could use, so we didn't actually have to spend $$$ to get down there. In April we might try to non-rev to Vegas again. My husband is such a poor sport non-revving, I hope it goes ok! He can't stand sitting around the airport waiting for the next flight! I'm like, "welcome to my world", and "what's the big deal". LOL We have our 26th Anniversary later in the month, so we'll give it a try. If it doesn't work, we'll go to a casino in MN instead. Got to take advantage of these pass benefits!! Of course I pick one of the toughest cities to non-rev to!

Message from Nadine on Mon Mar 29 13:57:22 2004

pam i am soooo excited! the add is at home but i'll get it to you tomarrow the boys( and girls) on the ship are sooo happy they do need alot of little things they can't get on the ship and they have't been on land in over a month!! that is such a great idea!! so anything i can do to help? they are getting their wish list together and i'll get it to you so we are going to start collecting soap and shampoos and all from the hotels? and put it in a box? and divide it amoung every one? how many people are we sending care packages too? to every branch??? this is so cool! mabey i can get the news involved a friend of mine works for channel 4 news!! so any ways how is every one? karen lucky you did you go through mesaba pass bureau? how much was it if you don't mind me asking? where to? how long? where did you leave from? fly safe!

Message from Karen on Mon Mar 29 09:34:53 2004

Hi you guys! I just got back from my VACATION! It was awesome - my daughter and I went on a cruise. Back to reality now! Pam I would love to help in any way with your project. Just comat me whatever you need me to do! Sounds like an awesome project!

Message from Pam on Fri Mar 26 12:00:50 2004

Yes Nadine it is nice that Mesaba is going to do this. Please send me your boyfriends address and we will include him on our list. Thats what we are doing in getting as many employees involved especially with loved ones serving. A CA that I flew with a couple of weeks ago suggested that I call Newslaunch. He said there were quit a few people he knows who are serving and would be a good way to get the message out. He was so nice, I hope I get to fly with him again soon. Thats too bad about the mix up. I did get the feeling when I interviewed for the job that it wasn't as organized as it should be. Hopefully they will get everything together soon. I will be in and out of there this weekend so hopefully we will see each other. Take care

Message from Nadine on Fri Mar 26 11:32:54 2004

pam that is great!!!! my boyfriend is in the navy away on a ship :( i know it's hard also we could get cards and leave them for every one to sign thanking ours boys for keeping us safe :) let me know if i can help actually i have a dj friend that was going to give me dvd's and music cd's to send to the ship i am doing the open house on mon apr 5 they messed up the days last week and i was stuck working!! they still don't have this position together i still do not know what i'll be doing!!! crazy my b-day is next month!1 4-18 than in may we will be here 1 year!! i have reserve! i can't wait for it to be over!!!!!! i have wrkd sooooo much well fly safe bye!

Message from Pam on Fri Mar 26 07:47:20 2004

Karen, would you be interested in placing a box there in MSP? If I comat you the flyer could you set it up there? I don't know when I will be in MSP and would like to get the box set up asap. I'll comat you everything so all you would have to do is place it there in the crew room. Let me know ok?

Message from Pam on Fri Mar 26 07:44:04 2004

Hey you two. Nadine I have been busy too I have a three day trip starting tonight on the SAAB (been on the jet lately.) Have some exciting news. I contacted Patty Johnson who is the communication director for our Newslaunch regarding compiling a list of Mesaba employees who are either serving in the Military or have someone serving. What I'm doing is putting boxes in the three hubs for anyone interested in donating items to send to our soldiers i.e. soaps, shampoos, lotion etc.. from our hotel rooms, the flyer above the box will list the items that they need. Newslaunch is going to do an article and take a picture of the boxes to let the employees know what we are doing. I'm excited about this and glad they were interested in helping. How did the open house go Nadine?

Message from Nadine on Thu Mar 25 15:30:07 2004

hey karen, pam where have you been???? i hope you have both been alright omg they are workin me!! i had the 1 st week off to go to paris and i already blocked 74 hours for the month!!!!! i can't wait til may when the new people are on reserve i got my badge renewd today! what a pain well hope all is well take care!

Message from Nadine on Sat Mar 20 15:23:49 2004

thanks :) i am not sure i still haven;t found out much about it!! i do the open house on wed and i guess the will tell me everything then

Message from Pam on Thu Mar 18 08:33:17 2004

Congrats Nadine on getting the job! Did they pick two for DTW?

Message from Karen on Thu Mar 18 08:13:43 2004

karen thanks again for your help ms pbs help desk lady! well i am happy i got the sp assnmt fa position :) i'll let you know whats going on in the hr ept we need more people! take care bye

Message from Nadine on Wed Mar 17 10:03:53 2004

i was wondering why no one was answering i am proud of you!!! you deserve something extra i am glad you got it!!!can you do me a favor and call me aroun 1 pm your time? i just want you all to check my bid and see if i did it right-my b-day is next month and i really want those days off thanks :) i have free incoming calls and everytime i call in i am on hold for ever! lol

Message from Karen on Tue Mar 16 19:03:06 2004

Nadine, Paul is not going to be doing the Help Desk much longer. I know he is scheduled to work with me Wed & Thur, as I am still in training (Fri I am working with Liz). It will pretty much be me answering the phone and Paul listening in on speaker-phone. Last month when you called and Liz answered and you asked for Paul, you guys hung up so fast I couldn't shout "hi!" to you! Check the "News for Crews" page in the bid packet and you will notice that there are new hours for the Help Desk - from now on they are eliminating the 16th of the month. Not many calls on the 16th, so from now on it's just 17th (12-8 central time), 18th (12-8) and 19th (9-5). If you call tomorrow I can talk to you! And yes, I'll let you talk to Paul!!

Message from Nadine on Tue Mar 16 15:58:01 2004

hey karen is the pbs help desk even open??? i have been trying to call when is it up? so is the your first month doing this? were you training last month? the new class is out in 2 more days!!! yeah

Message from Nadine on Mon Mar 15 21:43:40 2004

:( karen thats sad news :( i would love to hang out with every one i hope we get lucky and go hey when you are at the help desk can you please tell me which days paul is there this week? thanks well i am in and out of msp so look for me i am doing pattern # 3838 than on thurs i stay here over night and leave here on fri afternoon stay strong (reserve) fly safe!

Message from Karen on Mon Mar 15 14:47:38 2004

Nadine, did you know we won't all necessarily come to the same Recurrent session? I have asked several people and they all agree that you might see some of your classmates, but we probably wouldn't all be at the same one :( Did you guys hear that everyone is saying that Recurrent is really hard this year? People were so afraid of failing!

Message from Nadine on Mon Mar 15 13:10:34 2004

karen lucky you i am gone for 5 days again!! i am out of msp i dh'd this morn have a 4 day than sit res on fri i need a break!!! hey joe :) rae you going to msp when we have our rec?? it's 2 months away hey pam:) take care all bye

Message from Karen on Mon Mar 15 10:13:38 2004

What a shame to lose Danita - she's so good! Everyone complains about that mgr! She is my "boss" for the PBS Help Desk job. No one can figure out why her. It used to be Annette, but she is gone, and certainly Lisa has enough on her plate, with MSP by herself, and CVG too, plus all the hiring going on, so I guess it was Charlotte by default. Oh well. Joseph, it's so nice to have you checking on us on this board!! I can't believe it was that long ago that we were all in training. In some ways it seems like yesterday! I got in from a high speed this morning, and since I am off tomorrow Janel (in CS) said I am done for the day - don't need to be contactable tonight :) I just shouldn't even tell you guys how little I have worked this month.... but .... oh ok... I will! LOL.... Today is March 15th: for the 15 days of March I have had: a 3 day trip, 3 off days, high speed last night (which was deadhead last night and work only this morning - done at 8:00 am for the day), and the other 8 1/2 days were reserve with no call. Sorry! It's because I was showing 51 credit hours in the computer already after that 3 day trip! That's thanks to vacation (yet to come next week)and working the PBS Help Desk this week. Speaking of which - if you call Wed, Thu, or Fri I will talk to you!!

Message from Pam on Mon Mar 15 07:51:29 2004

Hey Joseph! Glad to hear that you are still reading up and keeping in touch. I did see on the new status board that Danita must of have quit because she isn't on the list. I too heard that in MEM there were a lot of people quitting because of the Mgr., and also the schedules, they are insane. They are still having problems with the gate agents and the way they schedules the trips, it's crazy!! Four day trips consist of long layovers between turns, early shows and late arrivals. I did have a nice jet trip this past weekend the crew was great! We were in Greenbay for a 17 hr layover so we took a trip up to Sister Bay for dinner, it was a long drive but well worth it. I want to go back there in the summer. Thanks Joseph for your prayers regarding my son.

Message from Joseph on Sun Mar 14 13:07:10 2004

Hey to the three of you. How are you? I read the board quite often to stay in touch and see what is happening. Would love for you guys to catch me up on the gang. Who is now gone? Who is leaving? I have heard of some others getting ready to leave. So glad its working out for you guys. Hope all is well with you three. It seems to only be the three of you writing back and forth, right? Karen, are you working in CS? Is memphis basing FA? How many, do you guys know? I hear lots of MEM FA are leaving and more are going to leave. Charlotte is not very nice to people....doesn't have any sympathy as to when they are not well and have to call in.. and other things. Take care.Pam, I will continue to keep your son in my prayers. Karen, congrats on the granny! What are they going to call you? are you happy with the grand part?

Message from Nadine on Sat Mar 13 09:24:40 2004

thanks pam :) yeah i was on r 6 days this week and i betcha i wrkd all 6 days!!! the new people get out of class on 3-18 than oes than green lines hurry hope they get a move on! take care bye

Message from Karen on Wed Mar 10 15:28:27 2004

Oh wow Nadine, I did not realize you were already picking up trips and they still are working you to death! Oh no! I too would be afraid of still being called a lot, but that's what this one FA I met had said. So ya, Pam like Nadine said, what this girl did was rearrange her OFF days so that she could stick a trip in the OFF days. You are right you cannot trade reserve days for a trip. So anyway I guess Nadine is proof that they are so short of reserves in DTW that you still would work a lot. Bummer. I agree, you don't want to give up your off days in that case!! I sure hope that once those new reserves come online you guys will get some relief. I just got done with a stretch of 4 reserve days with no call at all, not even ARR. That is really rare, even for me! Sorry, I shouldn't rub it in! Oh well I could pay dearly now tomorrow I go back on reserve for 5 days straight, so we will see :)

Message from Pam on Wed Mar 10 09:54:33 2004

Nadine thats why I haven't picked up any days because they have been working me alot. As I mentioned earlier I have the most credit hour so far of those who are on reserves, so I don't want to pick up more then I already have. My daughters are already wondering who that strange lady is coming in the door!!! I didn't get the position and wish you luck!

Message from Nadine on Wed Mar 10 09:46:56 2004

hey guys :) i pick up two or three trips a month for the past 4 months!! it does help alot on my check pam all you do is on your off days look up open time or check th board as long as your not over 6 days you can pick it up but you have to write on the trip trade that your are dropping below your 10 days off or that you are waiving your golden days but karen they still wrk me to death!!! i pick up trips and they still fly me EVERY reserve day i have!!! pam so what happened with the spec assnmnt? i am sorry i hoped you would of went too :( fly safe

Message from Pam on Wed Mar 10 09:36:27 2004

Thanks for the bit of info Karen. I am a little confused though because I thought being on reserves that we couldn't pick up trips. I knew that we could re-arrange our days off once the schedules came out so how do you pick up trips? Someone told me that I could call them on my days off and say I am willing to work which can put you in the guarantee over 75 but that I can't pick specific trips, the go to those who are holding the line first who are willing to work extra hours.

Message from Karen on Tue Mar 9 20:13:29 2004

Nadine and Pam, sounds like you guys are more short of reserves than we are. Next week when those new hires graduate you should instantly feel relief (when they are done with their OE's that is). Maybe you guys would want to try that hint that I learned from a FA here in MSP that has been on reserve a LONG time (actually she just transferred to MEM to finally get a line). Every month right after schedules come out she rearranged her days off to string some together so that she could pick up a trip on her off days. By doing that she guaranteed herself of a check over guarantee. Any flying you do on your OFF days is added to the 75 hrs of pay. Not only that, but because the computer showed those hours for her (even if she hadn't actually flown them yet) she was less likely to get called on her reserve days. Along the same line, I came into this month showing 32 hrs, because of my vacation and my PBS Help Desk hrs already being in the computer. Last week I flew over 18 hrs, so now the computer has me at 51 hrs. I was curious to see if I would get called much - that's a lot of hours for this early in the month, but then again we are quite short on reserves I thought. But I have lucked out. Out of the 9 days of March, I have been on reserve for 8 of them, flown 3 of those, and sat home the other 5. Works for me! So apparently it does have quite an effect. Anyway, thought I'd mention that because not only does it reduce the flying you would do on your reserve days, but it would fatten your paycheck too, so think about it! Glad to hear the next 2 classes are big. I wonder why they cancelled, I wonder if it's because they are running short of instructors!

Message from Nadine on Tue Mar 9 19:03:33 2004

thanks :) i want it soooo bad keep your fingers crossed! i am on a 4 day :( yeah the class was cancelled but the next 2 should be big our mngs said we should have a line by aug!! thats still so far away! reserve is driving me crazy!!!!!

Message from Karen on Tue Mar 9 16:32:39 2004

The next class is cancelled???? What??? Oh my gosh!! That's terrible news!!! Congrats on getting a 2nd interview. Let me know if you hear any more on that!

Message from Nadine on Tue Mar 9 15:22:59 2004

hello u 2 :) pam i went to msp for my 2nd interview have u heard anything? i saw lona and janelle and i got to talk to the new hire class we had 15 for dtw now it's down to 11 and they have 9 more days to go!! pam i have been wrking everyday of my reserve without many hours i can't wait for a line!!!! the next class was cancelled-not sure why- pam i agree i am burned out!!!!!! this is a hard job! bye

Message from Pam on Mon Mar 8 13:29:24 2004

Thanks Karen for that info and yes if you could ask them that would be great. The money has been pretty good but I have been flyin so much along with my son being in Iraq, it's been a bit tough lately cause I'm so tired and worried now. I know this will go by fast as far as being on reserves cause they are hiring now. I do feel bad for those who have been doing this the last couple of years, one girl I know she has been on Reserves 2 years next month and is so discouraged she wants to quit. I told her to hang in there just a little bit more because at least now they are hiring and for sure you will be holding a line soon. She is so nice, I hope she does hang in there.

Message from Karen on Mon Mar 8 10:22:44 2004

Pam, I never have called off either, so I doubt it's that. I will see what I can find out next week when I am working the Help Desk. From what they showed me last month, here's their procedure: Each day they do a printout of who's on reserve that day for each domicile. It reads: Karen Boerner... 2 ... 51:04, etc etc, meaning that I am on reserve for 2 (more) days and I already have 51:04 credit hours for the month. Also the names are ranked in order of seniority. I THINK that they first look at how many days (the 2 in this example), so if it's a 2 day trip and only one person has 2 days on reserve, that person gets it. Next (I think) they look at how many hours, and go for the person with the least hours, and if 2 people are within 5 hrs of each other, they then give it to the more junior person. What I'm not really positive about is, do they look at that 2 FIRST, or do they look at the hours first. I'll find out next week. Lots of down time to sit and gab with them, and they always seem so willing to answer all my nosy questions. LOL Nadine, I also wanted to mention, since you are counting down the days until line-holder :) ... remember that when these new reserves come on line, even when they are on green line it will benefit us, in being less likely sent out of domicile etc, and BETTER YET, when they are on reserve, even if we are still on reserve too, we will be the senior reserves which means getting the days off we want. It's not as good as holding a line, but it is something! I too am anxious to hold a line, I think the months will go by fast!

Message from Pam on Mon Mar 8 08:28:22 2004

Hi Nadine and Karen...LOL since it's just the three of us... Sounds like you had a great trip Nadine glad you had fun!! Just got back from a four day and was very "interesting" flying this weekend especially Friday, the winds were so bad. We started out Thursday was suppose to do an overnight in DAY but when we got to Champaine, IL it was socked in so they sent us to Peoria. The pax's were bused to Champaine and we flew the plane back to DTW. By the time we got back they had pulled another crew to do the DAY overnight so we went home. We DH to DAY the next day, it was 70 degree's there, the winds were so bad and the plane was full. We were rockin and a rollin all the way back to DTW, it was hot in the plane, pax's were getting sick. I had one lady that was so sick she went through 3 bags!!! That day we went from 70 degrees to 20 degrees and snowing cause we had an overnight in Rhienlander, Wisconsin. Karen I do my manual every time I get a revision,I am so scared that I will get audited! I have a question. I was looking at the schedules and you know at the bottom of your column where it says total YTD credit hours, well I have the most for DTW who are on reserves besides Dora but she does volunteer for extra hours. I want to know why I have so many hours. They have worked me so much, do you think it's cause I haven't called off?

Message from Nadine on Sat Mar 6 11:20:04 2004

hello you too i am home it was only $120.00 to non rev it was wide open i had soooooo much fun i saw everything there was to see i ran nonstop! i talked to cs today they said i am 30 people from a line and there are 13 people below me and i should have a line by july thats still so far away i heard janelle was leading the class this year and ollie had another baby boy joseph congrats!! oh pam i heard they were dropping some reserves cuz they have too many of us, yeah right they have been wrking us to death! take care fly safe my next trip is spain! i am going to cancun may 17-23 thats my PAID vacation! can't wait bye! :)

Message from Karen on Sat Mar 6 07:34:23 2004

4 to MSP? Oh gosh we need more than that! I had heard we had 5, then I heard 12, then I heard 8, and now 4? I do hear that the next class is HUGE, so that's kind of exciting. Not much new to report except one bit of gossip I'll pass on to you guys. I was doing a 3 day trip this week and when I got in from Moline I got the message to call CS, and sure enough they were switching up one of my turns, then I reunited with me original crew and finished out my original trip. THE REASON they were doing some switching... There was FAA on board a flight and he checked the FA's manual and she hadn't done her revision!!! They must have taken her off her schedule the rest of the day, because Janel (CS) told me they had to move about 6 people around to get it all covered. Coincidentally I had just, the day before, audited my entire manual doing the MCW-FOD turn, just to pass the time. Wow - can you imagine that she didn't have her manual up to date???? Nothing else happening, big snowfall here yesterday morning, I had the day off so I didn't have to deal with it at the airport. Our schools were closed, but by afternoon the roads were fine, with the mild temps. Back on reserve today - all my days off are pushed to the end of the month for my trip. Speaking of trips, can't wait for Nadine to get back and tell us about Paris!!

Message from Pam on Tue Mar 2 13:05:15 2004

CONT....didn't know if I was running out of room or not. I ran into Dora on the bus and Kim did transfer but is still out on sick leave. She said they won't let her come back yet and she doesn't know why. I saw Shaun too the other day and he and Mary are going to Costa Rica for a few days, they should have fun! I heard that Janelle and Ollie might be leaving and Brenda did up and leave without telling anyone, guess it was a big shock. Lona is still there, I hear from her often however lately I haven't she must be busy with the training. We are suppose to get 12 out of this class for DTW and I think 4 to MSP, don't know about MEM. Thats all the news I have for now, Joseph do keep us posted on you move situation and again so glad to hear from you! Karen I haven't heard about that job I interviewed for. I don't want to sound negative but I think this is a bad sign that I didn't get it. Oh well if I didn't then it wasn't ment to be.

Message from Pam on Tue Mar 2 12:57:45 2004

JOSEPH I AM SO HAPPY YOU POSTED SOMETHING! Yes it has just been the three of us lately but thats ok! Anywho glad to hear about your job and that things are going so well for you. As far as news goes pretty much what Karen posted is all I know as well. I ran into Danita a few weeks ago and yes she is very unhappy. Part of the problem is the way they are scheduling these flights, early shows long times between the next turn, late getting in, there is no time to really get a good rest and when your on a four day that can really wear you out. I'm still hanging in there but do get tried of all these FA's complaining all the time, although I did give scheduling an ear full the other day regarding our bus schedules getting to and from the parking lot.. waiting a half hour just to get to work when NW buses go about every 10 minutes..very unfair!

Message from Joseph on Tue Mar 2 09:06:47 2004

Karen Thanks for responding sooooooooo quickly. Going to see "The Passion" today. Have you guys seen it? Have a great day

Message from Karen on Mon Mar 1 14:23:06 2004

Joseph! So good to hear from you! Congrats on the new job! You're right, Pam (and Nadine) and I are keeping this board alive! So nice of you to join us :) I can only imagine how tough commuting is. I saw in the Vacancy Award notice that Kim got her transfer to MEM, although I also saw that she is not holding a line. I haven't been paying attention to when they increased the number of reserves there - I thought that Nicole and Danita were holding lines all this time. But with the new hires coming up, it shouldn't be long. But how does she (Kim) commute on reserve?? I was wondering about her on that one. Too bad Danita wants out - she's so good! I was out to dinner the other night and ran into an FA I know here in MSP and he was telling me that in the morning he was starting a trip, and just mentioned that he didn't know the FA he was working with, her name is Danita and she's from MEM (!) so I told him that she is super. Too bad now to hear she is about to quit. I hope she hangs in there, if it's schedule issues that are bugging her it will get better soon. Take care everyone, and check back again with us Joseph!

Message from Joseph on Mon Mar 1 07:22:54 2004

Well, we should call this the KAREN AND PAM NETWORK> No one on here but you guys. How are you two doing. I got hired on with Comair in Springfield. Actually, I got hired on as COMAIR POOL TEAM. ( meaning, they have filled the Springfield airport ) Actually, this is funny. When I went to the interview, MESABA representatives were there interviewing. All 6 of the ones I knew. THEY GOT IT! Pam, Depp and I are moving to Springfield from Branson in the summer, so I hope when they start putting me to work it will be then. That will be better. The drive to Springfield is about 1 hour. Also, our contract is up next year. Depp says we should move to Cinncinnati. IF we should and I am with COMAIR, I will transfer to FA. It will be better this time, because I live at the base..YOU GUYS WILL NEVER KNOW HOW HARD COMMUTING IS> Guys, has anyone heard if KIM is still with Mesaba. Just wondering how her commute is going. Danita is thinking about quitting. SHE does not like it at all. Karen, CONGRATULATIONS. I would love to see a picture. I talked with Charlotte, she would take me back, but I just do not want to. My life is WONDERFUL. I have so much fun with DEPP and the business is going so well. Catch me up on my questions Karen.....Tell me about Janelle, Ollie.......are they still employed. Lisa Lang left you said......SOmeone tell me a funny experience. I would love to here on...ALso, who else has left? Guys, would love to here from YOu Karen or Pam. Hope all is well. I will stay in touch.

Message from Nadine on Sat Feb 28 14:01:13 2004

hello pam i hope we both get it they said they are mailing out letters to us but i'll be gone next week so i guess i'll have to wait till i get back but why are they sending 3 of us to msp for only 2 to make it? well good luck i'll write back when i get back from paris!!! bye fly safe

Message from Pam on Thu Feb 26 16:27:00 2004

The interview went well and we should know something pretty soon as far as who they pick to go to MSP, Tom said we should know hopefully by tomorrow. Yes they are definately going to pick two people from each hub. Have fun on your trip Nadine and take lots of pictures. Be sure to send a couple to Karen to post on this site.

Message from Nadine on Thu Feb 26 13:54:35 2004

:) i met a cvg fa we are non reving 1st class 150.00 round trip! it's wide open we leave sun nite and come back sat morning i am sooo excited. so pam did you have your interview? i can't wait to find out who they pick so they are picking 3 people and sending us to msp to interview again then they pick 2 good luck mabay we can both go recurrent is around the corner!!!!!!!!! i am off to fly

Message from Karen on Thu Feb 26 09:23:15 2004

Wow! That's amazing about all those people! I don't think they had that big of a turnout here, but they only advertised it one weekend each time. I'm dying to know how many MSP are in Initial Training right now. I heard 5 and then I heard 12. I hope it's 12!!! I don't know about the open time, Pam - Reserves have been working quite hard I know. My hours at the Help Desk make it so that I don't get called out as much. I went over 2 weeks without flying. I had to rearrange my days for March because my daughter and I are going on a trip over her spring break. I got my 5 days vacation but I needed the whole week so CS switched it up for me and I got everything I need. To make it work I only have 3 days off between Feb 28 and Mar 20! Nadine, good for you going to Paris!! Are you non-revving? First class? Tell us all about it! Have fun! I know you will!

Message from Pam on Thu Feb 26 07:22:31 2004

Just wanted to let eveyone know that the open house held here in DTW yesterday had so many people show up that they were lined up outside the building. Guess they had to turn away about 50 or so people. Wonder how many they have in the training class thats going on right now. Whats up with MSP and all the open time?

Message from Pam on Wed Feb 25 16:05:38 2004

Nadine it will be worth it! Have a great trip and tell us all about it when you get back!

Message from Nadine on Wed Feb 25 15:29:33 2004

I AM GOING TO PARIS THIS WEEKEND!!!!!! I LEAVE SUN AND COME BACK NEXT SAT!!! i am soooo excited but i'll have to work 6 days on 1 off and 6 on they are going to kill me!!!!

Message from Nadine on Wed Feb 25 09:24:45 2004

hey karen :) they took away my 4 hr break of course! i am finally back in dtw i think i am going to paris this wknd!!! hope cs lets me switch up my days!!!!! take care fly safe recurrent is less than 3 months away than it's our 1 yr mark!!!

Message from Karen on Tue Feb 24 09:48:14 2004

Nadine! I have 2 hrs to kill here! Looking for you!!

Message from Nadine on Mon Feb 23 20:35:13 2004

hello all karen look for me i am in and out of msp i am here right now i can't wait til they hire and we get a line!!!!!!!!!!

Message from Karen on Mon Feb 23 18:13:48 2004

I am on a 3-day too, on the jet. First time ever that I'm the SENIOR FA!! I got to pick! HA!! Besides that they had the other FA do a RST turn during our 3 hr break. Pays to be senior! LOL Time to go now, OKC tonight. Take care.

Message from Nadine on Mon Feb 23 12:38:22 2004

i am on the longest 3 day of my life!!! not off till 11 pm tonite and 10pm the next 2 days :(

Message from Pam on Sun Feb 22 09:16:42 2004

Yes it looks like it is just the three of us. Nadine they have been working all of us like a dog! Heather and I DH'd together yesterday from MEM and she was still on day 3 of a 5 day. I have a turn tonight to CWA then off for three days. I talked to our mgr Friday and he said that to hang in there. They are increasing more AVRO trips by the summer. NW summer travel is projected to increase at the level it was before 9/11 so they are working on getting more flights for Pinnacle, us and them and are also building their crew to handle all the flights. So lets keep our fingers crossed and hope we can start holding a line by the summer

Message from Nadine on Fri Feb 20 06:40:59 2004

hello all PAULY WASUP??? i bad by myself this month hope it works!! Karen congrats!! she is a cutie hey pam and karen i guess it's just us 3 on here they have been wrking me like a dog!!!!! 3 weeks in a row i wrked all 5 days in a row!!!!! i am beat!!! take care

Message from Pam on Thu Feb 19 11:55:42 2004

Wow Karen your right we did it! Now the next hurdle is holding a line.

Message from Karen on Thu Feb 19 11:00:22 2004

In all the excitement at my house, I almost forgot.... today is our 9 mo anniversary with Mesaba!!! We're done with probation!!!!! Congratulations to us!!!! We are officially becoming members of the union now!

Message from Pam on Thu Feb 19 07:03:26 2004

Karen she is beautiful!

Message from Karen on Wed Feb 18 22:21:08 2004

Here's a picture of our new little angel!!!

Message from Pam on Wed Feb 18 16:53:43 2004

CONGRATS GRANDMA KAREN!!!! Send pictures as soon as you have them.

Message from Karen on Wed Feb 18 14:17:13 2004

I'm a Grandma! Alice Elizabeth (Ali) was born at 9:15 this morning, weighing in at 8 lbs 11.5 oz!

Message from Karen on Tue Feb 17 20:57:50 2004

Not a Grandma yet! My daughter in law is scheduled to be induced tomorrow (Wednesday) unless they have a shortage of beds available - in which case she might have to wait until Friday. We are getting so anxious!! I work tomorrow 12-8 at the PBS Help Desk, so maybe I will be heading straight to the hospital after that!

Message from Pam on Tue Feb 17 15:31:20 2004

Hey Paul welcome to our little inside mesaba message board. You take care of Karen cause she is "cool" too!! Karen are we a grandma yet????

Message from Karen on Tue Feb 17 14:20:44 2004

OKAY, This is Paul the PBS guy, breaking into the sytem via help from Karen...I know that I have spoken with many of you as well as met some as well. Just wanted to say hey and remeber to ask for me instead of Karen when you are calling the Help desk! She is great...but I'm cooler! :) Side note: Nadine, wuz up girly!

Message from Nadine on Tue Feb 17 08:48:50 2004

hello all :) i am back i am in msp on a break last week i was in cvg for 5 days!!! to sit reserve pam that would be cool if we both get it :) kren congrats on the pbs thing happy flying lines soon :)!!!!bye

Message from Pam on Tue Feb 17 07:38:23 2004

Hello all. Been busy was in MEM for 5 days on a four day trip. Got home Saturday and tired yesterday to go to Tampa with my daughter....no such luck! We waited for four flights and they were all over sold. Tried to get to MSP and go from there again.....all over sold going to MSP! This is crazy! So much for non rev-ing anymore! I know part of the problem is Mid winter break up here and you would think because of that NW would use some of their bigger planes. They continue to use the airbuses and give tickets away to pax who were bumped, makes so sense. I was talking to a couple of FA's who work for NW they commute from TPA and said it is getting harder and harder to get home anymore. One ended up going to Orlando and driving the 3 hrs to TPA, having to rent a car. We went to our concourse to see if anything appealed to us but didn't feel like going somewhere even colder, so much for working all those days in a row to get my GDO's. Karen congrats on that extra postion. I have an interview with Mary on Friday for that postion wish me luck.

Message from Karen on Mon Feb 16 18:54:18 2004

Hello??? Hello??? Hello??? I think I hear an echo! Where is everyone???

Message from Karen on Fri Feb 13 14:51:59 2004

Me again. I just found out that I got the PBS Help Desk special assignment position! I'm excited! I'll be working one day a month at the help desk, during bidding of course, sitting right next to the crew schedulers - I'm looking forward to getting to know them actually! Next week I'll be going in for training and then in March I'll work my own shift. I also applied for the Recruiting Asst but it sounded like they wouldn't really want the same person to do both, so I might be out of the running for that. Sounded fun though! If Pam and Nadine get that are you coming to MSP for training? Maybe we can meet, if you are!

Message from Karen on Thu Feb 12 12:43:17 2004

Hey have you guys noticed there is now an opening for "Inflight Training Manager" too? That's Rene James' job, isn't it? Have you guys heard any buzz about that? Just curious. GDO's yesterday, today and tomorrow - trying to time with birth of my granddaughter, as I have mentioned before. No baby yet! Time is a-wasting!! Hurry up Nora (dau-in-law)!!! LOL....Posting on here is slow this week... :( The temperature here in MSP is supposed to edge barely above freezing tomorrow - first time since Jan 17th! A heat wave! And the snow keeps on coming: 22 of the last 26 days have had measurable snow. This is the 7th snowiest Feb on record and it's not even half over. The last several winters have been real duds for the snow-lovers, but this one is making up for it. Take care, keep in touch.

Message from Karen on Sun Feb 8 16:31:06 2004

Yes Pam, she indicated that she wasn't even looking for a new job but someone approached her with an opportunity that she just couldn't pass up. She's going to be Director of Information Services or some title like that for Target Corporation! That sounds like a major league job all right. I also agree with you Pam that I still like this job! Reserve hasn't been that bad, and it will get better quickly. The new grads will start their OE March 18th so even though we won't get lines right away, it will ease the crunch of the shortage of reserves, which translates to not being sent out of domicile, etc, hopefully. This is definitely a time to be optomistic!

Message from Pam on Sun Feb 8 14:54:41 2004

Wow Karen your gonna be a grandma here reallllllllllll soon that is wonderful and please let us know when the princess of Minnisota is born! Yes we are going to be holding a line soon, I am very excited. I heard that the position we applied for they might be hiring two for each hub, we should be hearing from them soon for interviews. Good Luck Nadine and Karen. Just got back from a 3 day was fun and had a great crew. I still like this job very much ya I know it's a bit crazy but I reallly like it. Karen did your manager say why she is leaving? Seems kind of strange that she would be after everything seems to be settling down with the contracts and seeing a light here as far as the company growing. Fly safe everyone and Karen let us know.

Message from Karen on Sat Feb 7 16:15:09 2004

Hey everyone. I had my 3rd and final "routine probationary meeting" yesterday morning - it was over the phone. It was supposed to be in December but never was. My manager (Annette) is quitting, her last day is next Wed, the 11th, so she wanted to get it done before she left. She told me there will be a class in Feb, Mar, Apr, May, June, and probably beyond! Each of those classes will have at least 10 for MSP, sorry I don't know about DTW or MEM, but judging from all the open houses, you guys will be getting lots too! She said by this summer we will be "sitting real good"!!! It is SO NICE to hear good news for a change! Not much new to report otherwise, deadheaded to RST last night to work a flight back (20 min flight) this morning - a high speed put together because a crew got stranded. I've got 3 more reserve days after today, then my 3 GDO's that I tried to time with my daughter-in-law going into labor! My new granddaughter could arrive any day - the due date is Feb 14! We'll see if she cooperates with my request (my GDO's) - it's not too much to ask is it? LOL - I asked Annette if I can be taken off a turn or something if I am working when she is born so that I could just run to the hospital to see her and hold her, and I think, barring a jr man situation or something, I might be able to arrange that. For now, it's just a waiting game. Hope you all are doing well. Stay warm! Hopefully things will start to warm up soon!

Message from Nadine on Wed Feb 4 15:08:40 2004

i am back :) so how is everyone?? posting is slow!! we are hiring like crazy!! we are having classes thru the summer mesaba had a job fair today and theres an open house on mon and another on 2-25 and more in march!!!! yeah hr said we should get aline soon happy flying

Message from Nadine on Tue Feb 3 13:49:35 2004

sorry gotta go go quick schdling just called me for a turn :( hi and bye!!!

Message from Pam on Tue Feb 3 13:26:10 2004

Yes Karen that is what Nadine and I applied for. That would be so cool if we all got the positions! You poor thing what a trip that has been for you! It's amazing how we find out those little loop holes after the fact! I am just to the point where as long as I'm still standing what the hey, I'll be home sometime in the next couple of days and then I can rest. I know they work us hard especially on those SAAB's....I am more and more not liking that aircraft it is way to much high maintance for air travel. With weight restrictions, weight and balance, emergency exit rows and most of the time no jet way in the middle of the winter I just feel that they are to outdated for this day and age. Hang in there Karen and fly safe! Good luck too!

Message from Karen on Tue Feb 3 13:10:52 2004

Nadine and Pam, are you applying for the special assignment positions? I didn't see in your post if that's what is up, but I am guessing so. Me too! That would be fun if a bunch of us "class of 051903" got it! What a trip this has been, with the snow storm here in MSP. I blocked 10:10 on Sunday, never got to the crew room. Crew told me to come up front and eat my sandwich while we were on the de-icing pad or I would have starved. Yesterday stranded in RHI for several hours, boarded and deplaned I don't know how many times waiting for MSP to allow us to come home, only one runway open. Spent 6.5 hours straight on the saab without so much as stepping off of it. Reduced rest last night after 2 consecutive 14:10 duty days. Remember you can't go over 12:00 in a case like that? Wrong! Doesn't count if it's because of the weather!! (Surprise!!), so now I have a 13.5 hr day again. OMG!! This is one for the books!

Message from Pam on Mon Feb 2 08:58:39 2004

Hey all.....So nice to hear from you Joseph, Good Luck and keep us posted. Karen I hear ya....it has been so cold, it actually feels like a heat wave this week, double digit temp WITHOUT the "-" sign in front. Did a three day on the AVRO ending Saturday I much prefer that jet, more warmer. So excited to see the company moving on and starting to hire again. There was an ad in the paper yesterday for an Open House session next Monday the 9th. Hopefully we will hold a line by the beginning of summer or sometime soon afterward. Yes I too thought we would keep the jets and always felt it was just a ploy between NW and Mesaba to get the Pilots to agree on the contract......thought it was pretty cheesie for them to do that. I feel now we will start building a stronger line with more jets on the way. Nadine good luck and yes I hope we both get the job. Tom said that they were suppose to go to MSP this week to discuss the hiring process. Well my daughter and I are going to try and Non Rev to Tampa next Monday. I need to go bury my toes in the sand to thaw them out......wish us luck!!!!

Message from Joseph on Mon Feb 2 06:56:10 2004

sorry.......always forget to SELECT NAME!!!

Message from select name on Mon Feb 2 06:55:19 2004

Hey Guys! Just wanted to let you know that I am interviewing with ASA Tuesday. They are now flying into Springfield/Branson and hiring Customer Service Agents. I can do that with my other job because it is NOT FAR FROM HOME!! SO...........I may be back with the airlines and it has wonderful benefits. Wish me luck.......and I will be back flying sometimes to see you guys.. Hope it works out for me.......would like to do that and be around the sgf area. take care everyone.....Joseph

Message from Karen on Sat Jan 31 12:01:10 2004

Have you guys heard??? We're KEEPING THE AVROS!!! Here's a copy of the article in our local paper. What a coincidence. The day that the pilots ratify their contract.... hmmm... I feel like I am the ONLY person that always thought we were keeping them!

Message from Karen on Fri Jan 30 13:31:59 2004

Sure is nice to hear from Joseph and the others that are no longer at this job. I hope Mary has a speedy recovery. One more bit of news that I forgot to pass on in my previous posts: did you notice the job opening for Training Instructor? I found out that Brenda quit! :(

Message from Joseph on Fri Jan 30 08:26:36 2004

Just checking in to say hello to everyone. Hope all is well. Think of you guys often. All is well here. Take care of yourselves and would love to hear some fun stories of pax from you guys .

Message from Karen on Fri Jan 30 06:44:54 2004

Ok this cold spell has gone TOO FAR!! Started out this morning at my house and it was about -23. That's cold enough, but then I check my first station this morning, Grand Forks, and it's -39!!! ACTUAL DEGREES!!!! No jetbridge, of course, and picking up a FULL load, of course! I just can't even imagine!!! BRRRRR!!!!!! Sitting in the crew room now, just have a 20 minute delay at this point. Wouldn't break my heart if we got cancelled!! Yesterday we had to overfly CMX due to weather and took everyone to MQT instead, came back empty :) Got to sit up front again - I love that! Stay warm everyone!

Message from Nadine on Thu Jan 29 14:09:18 2004

great news about the reserves karen :) poor mary :( i hope she'll be okay marleen lucky you!!! good luck in the land of sunshine!! pam hopefully they'll pick us both good luck to us!!! :) have fun flying all bye

Message from Karen on Thu Jan 29 08:20:42 2004

Hi guys - sitting in the crew room - turn to DLH just got cancelled because their airport lost power. We were all boarded, door shut and and the CSA motions to the CA that we were XLD - He didn't believe it - Dispatch hadn't even told him yet! Anyway, so now we sit for a few hours, then to CMX. By the way it is SO COLD!!!!! -16 here, and that's not a windchill! Anyway, I just wanted to pass on that I heard that there will be 3 straight classes and that one of them will have 50 in it!! I don't know if it's the first class or what, but sounds like lots of new faces coming on board!! I also heard that the first class will graduate middle of March, green line in April, then on reserve in May. Yaaayyyy!!!

Message from Pam on Wed Jan 28 16:26:02 2004

Ok Marleen I'll be looking for the flyer and will Talk to the person who helps with uniforms.

Message from Marleen on Wed Jan 28 14:57:14 2004

Hey Pam, I appreciate the well wishes and the help. I sent you a "flyer" that has what I'm selling, and my phone number is on it. If you could post it for me in the DTW crew room when it gets there, that would be great. (That goes for you, too, Karen.) And if you want to ask that other FA to contact me, that would be great! Have fun on you trip to FL! I think we all could use a little warm weather about now. I'll be in SD next Wednesday, so I'll let you all know how it goes. Stay warm!

Message from Shaun on Wed Jan 28 10:10:54 2004

Hey everyone, hope everything is going well for everyone. Unfortunately Mary is in the hospital. She had to have emergency surgery to get her appendix removed. She was working on a 3 day trip but wouldnt call off of it. Anyways if you wanted to call her to say hello she is pretty bored. Her direct room number is 586-493-8367. She will be in for the next couple of days. Stay warm everyone. I'll be looking for ya in DTW. see ya!

Message from Pam on Wed Jan 28 07:58:09 2004

Marleen that is wonderful news and Congrats to your husband with his promotion. That is exciting about your move to California, San Diego is a nice town, my husband and I went there and thought it was very nice. I'm am now sick of winter going to try and go to Florida to visit my sister in a couple of weeks just to thaw out. I'm hoping for a MEM trip just to get out of here, anything over 40 degrees would be nice!!! Marleen I will post your uniform pieces in the crew lounge here in DTW, do you want me to put my phone number or yours as a contact? There is a girl who buys and sells uniforms here and if you want I can ask her to contact you let me know.

Message from Marleen on Tue Jan 27 16:22:07 2004

Hey all, thanks for the well wishes. I'm feeling the love! I feel so bad for you guys on those COLD Saab trips up north. I bought myself a pair of Totes fur-lined boots for the winter, but never really got a chance to break them in on a Saab trip to see if they would hold in the heat. Now I'm glad I won't EVER have to know! They hardly called me at all once I put my notice in. Oh well! Guess they didn't want to risk my getting hurt on the job or anything like that. No news on closing CVG. You guys will have to keep me posted in the future. Hey Karen and Pam, I comatted you a note to hang in the crew room for me about my uniforms. I'd like to try and sell a few pieces. Size 12 blouses and 14 blazer if anyone is interested... Hey Nikki; I'll e-mail you with what I heard. Good luck with you interview!! And good luck to all of you in getting you lines sooner than later!On that note, I have more news. My husband accepted a promotion at work that includes a raise and all-expense-paid move to San Diego! So, as soon as the house here sells, we're off to the land of sun, surf, illegal immigrants, and Gov. Arnold! Guess I was going to have to quit anyway! I'm going to try and look for work similar to what I use to do-put bad guys in jail. Wish me luck! I'll keep you posted as the move progresses. Fly safe, and stay warm!!

Message from Karen on Tue Jan 27 15:56:28 2004

Guess what you guys! I found out we ARE supposed to be paid the 3.75 hours for Ready Reserve!! Of course it is only an issue if you go over your 75 hours. The lady you want to talk to is Janice Pedersen (phone 651-367-5095) in the Crew Pay Dept. I was told this by another reserve FA and I just got off the phone with Janice and now I have 7.5 hours coming to me on my next paycheck for 2 days of ARR in December. Not a problem whatsoever - she is really nice.

Message from Pam on Mon Jan 26 17:45:09 2004

Ya Karen I know! First high speed was Marquette @ 12am it was -18. Then the next night Montreal -20. The drive from the airport to the hotel in Marquette was very interesting. We had to drive ourselves and the FO was the one behind the wheel. He couldn't remember exactly how to get there so we got directions from someone at the airport. So we take off and it's freezing, the wind is blowing and we had a couple of white out conditions. I'm sitting in the back seat thinking OMG this is it, I'm gonna freeze to death in a ditch in the middle of the UP. Needless to say we made it to the hotel with about 3 hours sleep left. THEN all night long all I heard were snowmobiles running back and forth in front of the hotel. I did have a nice break going to Roenoke (SP?) got there no snow, big bonus and the temp was 40, thought I was experiencing a heat wave LOL

Message from Karen on Mon Jan 26 17:18:06 2004

Oh Pam I hear ya! Last Thursday I had the pleasure (?!) of overnighting in International Falls, and it hadn't been above zero all day, it was -11 when we landed at 11:30 pm. Brrrr! Thank goodness for being picked up in a warm car! Now there's another cold front moving in this week - I can't wait! LOL

Message from Pam on Mon Jan 26 11:00:25 2004

Wasn't done posting my message and hit the wrong key.......anyways did those high speeds wow what fun that was! Lets all pray that this contract gets resolved this week and that we can move on. Nikki again I'm so sorry that you are leaving and I do wish you luck with your interview, please let us know how it went. Ditto to you to Marleen we will miss you, you know we never did run into each other did we? Please keep in touch ok? I'm off for the next couple of days actually the high speeds did work in my favor because I was able to get an extra day off. I'm off Sun,Mon and Tue., so when I got back Saturday morning I was on rest for 11 hours and the only thing they could have used me for was another high speed but since I was off the next day they couldn't use me. You guys those SAAB's are COLD I haven't felt my toes in two months LOL

Message from Pam on Mon Jan 26 10:54:06 2004

wooohooo they might be hiring again!!!! Were movin on up guys!!! Well I did three high speeds in a row and C O L D!!!

Message from Pam on Mon Jan 26 10:54:05 2004

wooohooo they might be hiring again!!!! Were movin on up guys!!! Well I did three high speeds in a row and C O L D!!!

Message from Nadine on Sun Jan 25 12:56:33 2004

hello all :) i am sitting here on a break and dora is here! i made her get on here again :) i picked up a trip today on my off day-crazy me but i need money! i have 70 hrs for the month guess they are short cuz i am going over 75 again. yes i am soooo glad they are hiring i need a line!! hope you all are doing good and keeping warm fly safe :)bye

Message from Karen on Sun Jan 25 12:07:26 2004

Nikki, good to hear from you again and good luck at your interview! Hey everyone, have you all heard the good news?! Mesaba is hiring FA's again!! They have Info Sessions in MPS, DTW, and MEM this week! I hope they hire LOTS so that we can resume our climb up the seniority ladder!!!!

Message from Nikki on Fri Jan 23 13:47:16 2004

Hey everyone :) Glad to hear you're all doing well :) I have an interview with ASA in Atlanta, next week :) Marleen, sorry to hear youre leaving :( Was Lisa Lang giving you a hard time, as well? j/k ;) So, what was the rumor about me that you heard? You can email me, if you dont want to post it :) Anyways, just wanted to say Hi to everyone, and tell you all to keep your heads up...Good luck with the negotiations, and all will work out for the best in the end :) Talk to you all soon...I miss you all! :) Nikki

Message from Lisa on Thu Jan 22 18:31:45 2004

I have 66hours so far and I've been to Duluth twice today. One time on the Jet and once the Saab. Duluth has a windchill of -44 degrees. It was bitting cold. I've been on Reserve in MSP since Monday. I can't wait to go home on Friday.

Message from Nadine on Thu Jan 22 12:53:34 2004

hello all :) i'm in here with heather sorry marleen good luck to you i already have 68 hrs for the month how about every one else? bye

Message from Pam on Wed Jan 21 11:07:06 2004

Marleen I'm sad to hear your news and do wish you the best. What is going on down there in Cinci anyways? Are they still talking of shutting down. Please do keep in touch and let us know how you are doing. Well I have a high speed tonight to Marquette hope I don't get snowed in up there.

Message from Karen on Tue Jan 20 17:22:15 2004

Oh Marleen.... I saw it coming but it's sad to know it's a reality. I know you gave it a lot of thought, but wish you didn't come to that conclusion :( Keep in touch!! Pam, I agree. When I sat ARR last week I got an ear-ful. Many pilots were expecting more. This week are the Road Shows, where they will explain the details and answer questions, so possibly that will sway some to vote yes. I really think it will be ratified, but it's not a slam-dunk by any means. Oh I can't imagine if they vote it down. If they do vote no they start over from scratch and the company can take back things it had given them, like scope, for example. Scope was a huge victory for the pilots, I know they would hate to lose it. We will know pretty soon I guess, keep your fingers crossed. Day 1 of 6 on reserve today, no call yet, but I am surprised because I think we are getting so short-staffed. I hope they can start hiring soon!

Message from Marleen on Tue Jan 20 16:52:22 2004

Hey everyone, the show must go on I guess! Nikki, I was sorry to hear about you leaving. I heard a rumor, but wanted to see if you were going to write anything before I did. Best of luck with the job hunt. And keep in touch! Joseph and SaDee, it was good to hear from you both! Well, I have news as well. After considering my life and this job, I have come to the following three conclusions; 1) I feel like I have no life, 2) I feel that I am wasting my time, and 3) I am bored with this job. So, when the pilots got the contract and decided they didn't need to strike, I put my notice in to quit. My last day will be the 26th. I'm going to take some time to do some projects around the house, go to San Diego for a few day with my husband (who will be there for work anyway), and then get serious about looking for a job. Don't know how much I'll work between now and then. I only have a few more reserve days, so we'll see. I'll still get on the message board and keep in touch! Good luck to all of you, especially as it seems this contract issue isn't over with yet.

Message from Nadine on Tue Jan 20 13:09:11 2004

:) sorry pam i had to laugh at that one just thinking about it be careful it does get slippery :) happy flying :) i start a 2 day tomarroow a 530 am show :( bye

Message from Pam on Tue Jan 20 11:21:43 2004

Hi all, hope everyone is doing ok. Looks like the pilot's contract may still be up for grabs. Was babysitting the airport on Sunday and from the sound of things looks like the Pilots aren't very happy with the contract. What are you hearing from the other hubs? This is very discouraging and hope they finalize things soon. Ran into Nadine (wow they were really working her the last few days) "high speed" Dora, thats all they have been giving her lately and Angie. Was good seeing them Ang waited for me so we had a nice time catching up on things. Also saw Shaun, he is doing good. Well take care everyone >>>>>>>>>fly safe! Oh ya has anyone had problems with the floor of the SAAB being slippery from the deicing "oil?" I have had problems and almost fell out of the aircraft the other day. I had my hand on the handle and when I opened the door my foot slipped. Luckly a passenger grabbed me and helped me get my balance but was pretty scary there for a minute.

Message from Nadine on Sat Jan 17 11:23:06 2004

hello all i am finally home!!!! i have 55 hrs already my 2 day turned into 4 :( i saw pam and dora take care all happy flying

Message from Pam on Thu Jan 15 15:13:29 2004

yes Karen I guess we were lol. Mesaba didn't have as much news coverage here in Detroit (too busy covering the Auto Show...ya thats Detroit for you) but they did have some hightlights as to what was going on. I'm so glad things turned out the way they did and feel hopeful that the company will start to expand getting more or different planes. The CRJ is a nice aircraft, it is small but very fast and the seats are more comfortable then the SAAB. I think the SAAB is a bit outdated compaired to the other Airlink services and hope that NW awards Mesabe with something more updated.

Message from Karen on Thu Jan 15 08:21:04 2004

Pam, I guess we were writing our messages at the same time! LOL

Message from Karen on Thu Jan 15 08:14:11 2004

Yes, it's so nice they settled the way they did! Both sides claiming success - perfect! My hope is that now the company can release "good news" for just once.... maybe we can get new aircraft and hire more FA's! I hope you all stick it out!!! Like Nadine says, recurrent is a few months away. AND - in about a month we will be IN the union, which I am looking forward to. I too, was working when all the excitement happened. Started a 4 day on Friday, but of course we doubted that we would make it to our overnight in CID (Cedar Rapids). By afternoon that was cancelled, HOWEVER (!) what we hadn't planned on was breaking down in Hibbing! Of all the days! And of course it's a "Mesaba only" station! We were to go up to I-Falls, back to Hibbing and then back to MSP, but 5.5 hours later we ferried it home empty. We almost didn't bring it back, but the mechanics in MSP assured our captain that the "light that wasn't working" didn't mean that we wouldn't stop at the end of the runway. Our pilots weren't sure it was safe to fly: "it's not his a** in the plane!" referring to the folks in MSP telling him to ferry it home, but the mechanics assured him that as long as such-and-such lever was out it would be fine. You know, sometimes we hear just a little too much information!!! But obviously it ended fine, and I got to sit up front again, which I always appreciate. We were shocked watching the announcement at 11:00 pm live that talks were continuing, but I figured it had to mean they were making progress. Sunday morning nwa.com said my flight was still on (hint: that seems to be the quickest way to find that out sometimes! It was the quickest way on Saturday for me to find out my flights were cancelled as the day went on) and then I saw on startribune.com (our local paper) that they settled. So then I resumed my trip on day 3. Was the possible strike covered in your local news as heavily as here? Oh my gosh, Mesaba is famous now. All week Ch. 5 was on "STRIKE WATCH" counting down, and other stations had coverage as well. The announcement at 11:05 was carried live as Breaking News, and we had the top story of the newscasts Fri, Sat, and Sun, and many front page articles, not to mention tons on the cover of the Business section. If people hadn't heard of us before, they have now! Here's to brighter skies ahead!

Message from Pam on Thu Jan 15 07:58:02 2004

Hi everyone, wow we got the snow yesterday, about a foot or more where I live, hope thats all we get for now. How is everyone? Karen haven't heard from you

Message from Nadine on Wed Jan 14 16:10:43 2004

hey all of course i am wrking on a 2 day this weather is horrible!!!!! hate it so recurrent is like 4 months away come on everyone lets hang in there so who all is gone? sadie, shaun, joe, laura, nikki 5 total any more? lets be strong our next raise in may takes us to 19.75 sounds good to me :) bye fly safe

Message from Pam on Tue Jan 13 20:08:44 2004

Was in Central Wisconsin.....sorry

Message from Pam on Tue Jan 13 19:56:08 2004

Hey all hope everyone is breathing a sigh of relief! Was pretty exciting actually I was on a 3 day trip during all this. They started cancelling the evening flights on Friday most of them except for ours, we were going to CWA which of course is a maintance airport so they wanted to park some planes there. I was so afraid that we were going to be stranded there but scheduling did a nice job keeping us posted on what to do. Actually I thought they did a great job. My FO and I flew back to DTW on a Pennicle flight (first time on the CRJ, small but nice) they had cancelled as you know the rest of Saturday and lucky for me I was off Sunday through tomorrow. Anyways we were postive spaced on the 1:45 flight back from CWA the hotel took us downtown Manomee, WA (SP?...close enough) that evening for dinner then the next day they took me to this place about 10 minutes from the hotel to this cheese factory (just wanted to kill some time) actually was pretty cool to see. Hope now that things are finally going to calm down the pilots get a good contract, we get more planes and our senior status starts to improve. Safe flying all

Message from Nadine on Tue Jan 13 17:49:27 2004

hello all :) we have a job :) thank God hope all is well i already blkd 35 hrs this month :( take care

Message from Joseph on Fri Jan 9 16:08:54 2004

Marleen, wouldlove to hear from you. Hope all is well. 417-230-3242

Message from select name on Fri Jan 9 16:06:22 2004

Happy New Year to everyone. Please keep me informed of what is going on. I haven't heard. I hope everyone is doing well. All is well here, just staying busy on the road with the singing group. I misss all you guys. Hey, would someone tell Shaun, if they see him to callme. I would like to talk with him. 417-230-3242. Tell him to leave his number if he misses me. Stay healthy. Joseph

Message from Nadine on Thu Jan 8 07:52:02 2004

hello all got to make it quick i am on my way out pam is here :) nikki i am sorry good luck to ya :) take care all tomarrow is the day -lets all say a special prayer tonight bye

Message from Pam on Tue Jan 6 08:06:15 2004

cont....... Ran into Shaun, Nadine and Lisa over the weekend. Sorry if I was venting so much I guess I'm just upset with this pending strike and the 401k mess. I love flying but like my husband said, I'm trying to put a round peg into a square hole, in other words I love what I'm doing but the company continues to make it harder to like every day.

Message from Pam on Tue Jan 6 08:05:26 2004

Hi Everyone Nikki wow I am so sorry to hear what happened to you!!!! Sometimes these things happened because something better is about to come your way. Please hang in there and keep in touch with us ok??? SaDee it's great to hear from you and glad to see your doing ok. Karen I said a few weeks ago (even called our manager and talked to him) that something bad is going to happen in MEM if they don't do something about that company they are using. Those employees don't know what they are doing, they are so unprofessional, they are taking serious shortcuts and it's getting worse. Thank god you just had a fender bender but again if they don't fix the problems they are having fast it's just going to continue to get worse. I saw ramp people with curlers in their hair, one woman working at the counter had this purple hairpiece sticking up on top of her head and the way they treat the pax's is unbelievable! Oh well had a two day trip from hell (guess thats why I'm venting so much here) We were delayed from DTW to MSP (DH) get to MSP two hours behind schedule. Was on the RJ so we called scheduling to find out if they brought in another crew to take the Duluth turn cause we were delayed for so long. Can you believe it instead of bringing a crew in to do the turn they delayed the flight so the pax's who had connecting flights out of MSP from Duluth received a free ticket...unbelievable! We had no breaks yesterday cause they delayed all the flights we were scheduled to work. So many people were upset all they had to do is bring in a crew to do that Duluth turn (30 minute flight) and not one flight would have been delayed!

Message from Karen on Mon Jan 5 20:37:49 2004

Wow Nikki... I knew you were looking elsewhere but I was still so surprised to hear the news. Everything will work out for you I'm sure, and I'm glad you will keep writing to us. Well I finally got back from my MEM trip. I laughed when I looked at my previous post stating that I would be home in a few hours. HA! Famous last words! You know how they add an A to your pairing number when it gets modified... then a B the next time? Well mine ended up as an "I"!!! That's TEN changes!! I ended up working an Aspen flight last night. Oh my gosh! It's GORGEOUS!! Too bad the overnight is so short - but the hotel is a ski resort! Complete with thick terry cloth robes hanging in the closet and a breakfast package for the crew members, that you pick up when you check in (juice, apple, 2 muffins, granola bar and m&m's). Wow, what a place. Each hotel room is actually a privately owned condominium. There are ski slopes and chair lifts right outside the resort window. But I tell you what, you WORK on those flights. Those pax are something else again. When I got back to MSP I did a Sioux Falls turn and we ended up having no pax coming back because we were so late they all got rebooked (have ANY flights been on time this weekend??) so I got to sit up front in the flight deck again and it was great, especially since we were coming into MSP and the view was spectacular. Well I have 3 days off now. Mesaba made big headlines in today's local paper: article about how so many pilots need 2nd & 3rd jobs to pay the bills. Today they are picketing, I'm sure we'll be in the news all week. Hope to hear from you guys soon :) !

Message from Nikki on Sun Jan 4 20:33:17 2004

Hey everyone :) Sorry it's been so long since I've written, but some pretty crappy stuff has been going on...Ok, I am no longer working with Mesaba :( I had a meeting with Lisa Lang a week or so ago, and I was basically forced to resign. It really sucks, but I was planning on leaving anyways, so it just happened a little earlier than I would have liked! I used up my strikes over the past 7 months (for stupis sh*) I really hate those bastards in scheduling...I would still have my job if it weren't for a select few of them. But I have had some time to accept my fate, and I actually have an interview with ACA (a GREAT airline with huge growth coming iup in the next year) this tuesday in IAD (washington DC), and ATA (in IND)this wednesday. Then I'm going to Florida to visit my family on thursday, and then I have another interview with ASA at teh end of the month :) So all is actually going well. I just will miss you all so much! But I'm sure we just might run into eachother in some random airports! I have been following the strike news daily, and just want to hug every single one of our pilots, and tell them it will all be ok...( I am such a dork, I know!) I really hope they get everything they deserve, and then some! management cannot take all of us for granted anymore. Don't worry, I will still visit and write on this board frewuently. Ok, I should go now...Im running out of room! ::) Nikki

Message from Karen on Sun Jan 4 08:51:07 2004

So nice to hear from SaDee!!! Thanks for posting SaDee! Well I am here in MEM at the hotel (at least this one has internet!) ready to deadhead back home in a couple hours. I got here Friday night for a Saturday day trip (3 turns). All was well until we taxi'd out and we HIT ANOTHER SAAB!!! Our right wing tip contacted the other plane's left wing tip. You know how crazy these Saabs are parked here in MEM! Our pilots didn't think they had room but the ground people were like - oh yeah you got room, and there was even someone at the wing watching! Man, were the pilots mad! Of course we had to deplane and the flight was cancelled. Luckily there was no metal damage - just creamed the little lights on the tips of the wings, but it still was a BIG deal. The airport police even took down my name and badge number. The pilots had to go get drug tested, and since they were short of pilots our next two turns got cancelled too. So back to the hotel for me and now I will be back home in a few hours. One sidenote: it was 50 degrees warmer here yesterday than in MSP!! (71 here) Well this will be an interesting week. Happy New Year to you all!

Message from SaDee on Sat Jan 3 18:41:59 2004

Greetings Friends! Just thought I'd pop on here to see how everyone is doing. It's fun to read the postings to hear about the all the ups and downs of you FA adventures. I've been in AZ for a while staying at my sister's house but I'm back to MN now *freezzing* but looking for a new job here anyway. Might try to relocate to AZ in the summer. I think about you guys and hope all goes well for you with MESABA. I watch the news closly and wonder how it is for you all. It must be so cold on those SAABs now that it's winter!! Well, happy new year! love, SaDee

Message from Nadine on Thu Jan 1 13:22:38 2004

hello all :) i saw mary, pam, lisa and marleen this week i have blckd 90 hrs for dec!!! crazy!! so i guess we have all been wrking they have been jr manning alot this month my friend is #61 and they called her!! i am glad i am wrking but it sure wears me out happy new year have fun safe flying holiday pax drive me crazy :) bye

Message from Pam on Tue Dec 30 13:38:37 2003

Forgot to wish everyone a Happy New Year! Thanks Nadine for the Christmas card! I'm off New Year's Eve too but back on New Year's Day which I know I will be working. Fly safe everyone and be careful

Message from Karen on Tue Dec 30 10:55:19 2003

Nice to hear from you guys. I saw Marleen here in the MSP crew room as she was finishing up her last trip. I say "HERE" because I am sitting Ready Reserve today. When I posted a couple days ago that I was picking up the tail end of a trip, I lied. I was going off of Crew Voice, which is less and less accurate these days! Instead they gave me a 3rd high speed that night. Wow - you guys have me beat in credit hours this month! I thought I had a lot of hours, but not compared to you guys! I am right at 75, since I won't get anything for sitting ARR today, as Shaun taught us a few months back. That still doesn't seem like what they told us in training. They said you get 3.75 hrs, didn't they! Oh well - whatever. I pass the time here by eating, then a little more eating, and finally more eating yet. So far I've had the traditional "Ready Reserve Cinnabon" - at least that's what I call it! You have to have something to look forward to, right?? Next - who knows... maybe Wok N Roll.... maybe Sbarro.... hmmm... so much airport food, so little time...

Message from Pam on Tue Dec 30 08:20:49 2003

Hi everyone! So sorry I haven't posted in a while, like you all I have been flying my arse off!!! I have 86 credit hours that within 3 weeks!!!!!! Hope everyone had a nice Christmas. Ours was nice and quiet my parents flew to Florida at the last minute (they love my job LOL) and with my son gone it was just my husband and the girls. These last few weeks have been crazy though. I had a pax that almost started a riot while we were deicing. He threatened to break a girl's knees who was sitting behind him cause she was kicking the back of his seat, screaming babies, little ole ladies with luggage that weighed as much as the aircraft, overbooked flights, overweighed flights, a flight that was cancelled by ground supervisor but really wasn't (we had a crew, a loaded plane full of pax and no luggage) and MEM........omg that place is a nightmare!!!! Karen sorry I missed you was hoping we would run into each other. I haven't seen many of you, ran into Angie a couple of weeks ago. So what do you all think of this pending strike? It's really sad that it has come down to this and hope the company realizes what they have before they close the doors cause thats what will happen if they strike.

Message from Marleen on Mon Dec 29 19:33:59 2003

OMG!! Hello everyone (both of you!!) I have been working my a** off! I have blocked over 75 hours this month, credit over 87. Most of the trips have been 4 days, no breaks, combs of Saab and RJ, alot of DH; just crazy stuff. Christmas came and went while I was on a four day trip, so I didn't really have time to "enjoy" the holiday season. In fact, I really feel like this was one of the worst Christmas's I've ever had. But other than that, I'm good. I'll try to write more later. I'm making a decision about my future employment with Mesaba, so I'll write more about that soon. Happy 2004 to all!!

Message from Karen on Sun Dec 28 16:27:27 2003

Yes, where is eveyone? Busy with holiday activities? Working a lot? I have been flying a lot, I'm going over my guarantee this month for the first time since August. I've had 2 high speeds in a row and now tonight I'm picking up a partial trip that someone else started, that'll keep my busy till Tuesday night. Then I'm off for New Year's Eve, but on for New Year's Day. Oh well - if the strike happens (i.e. if mgmt comes in with an acceptable offer, because I know the pilots will walk if they don't!) I'll have plenty of time off later.

Message from Lisa on Sun Dec 28 13:12:15 2003

Happy New Year. I'm on the second day of a 4-day trip. I'm so ready to go home now. I have a three hour layover in DTW right now and I over night in Bloomington tonight. Where are all the wonderful writer's on this message board? Come back, we still work for MESABA.

Message from Nadine on Wed Dec 24 20:29:16 2003

hello karen it's just you and me :) merry x-mas

Message from Karen on Wed Dec 24 07:48:01 2003

So....what's worse than a short overnight in LNK with no time to eat? How about an overnight in LNK, without your LUGGAGE?!! Yes, it's true! They pulled my bag off the Saab in CMX! How annoying! CS told me to spend $35 to buy what I needed, but I had no time and nowhere to go, except Airport news stands. I went as fast as I could, bought a toothbrush, hairbrush, etc and a souvenir sweatshirt for "jammies"! So at least I got a sweatshirt out of the deal! Hope everyone has a good Christmas - don't work too hard!

Message from Karen on Sun Dec 21 21:27:23 2003

Nadine I am here too! Hey I got your card today! Thanks so much!! I had a day trip today on the jet, and I have a sucky 2 day on the Saab tomorrow. LNK again!! This will be THREE overnights in a row in LNK. It's too short and no time to eat between flights! I saw Lisa today briefly in MSP. Good to see her again!

Message from Nadine on Sun Dec 21 17:20:27 2003

hello all am i the only one on here? i am starting a 4 day today hope everyone has a great christmas :)

Message from Nadine on Thu Dec 18 19:10:27 2003

for those of you that are dtw based the bc buses are no longer we have to take the a20 bus and walk make sure you get to work at least 1/2 hr hour early to make it on time where has every one been??

Message from Nadine on Wed Dec 17 15:14:45 2003

hello all went to the meeting today looks like on fri jan 9th they are parking all the planes at 1 pm. so it looks like this is gonna happen :( every one pray for the best!!!

Message from Karen on Wed Dec 17 07:22:40 2003

Well I am enjoying a stretch of 3 days off here! I am FINALLY getting around to posting some pictures that Pam sent me a while back. Sorry it took me so long! But, as they say, better late than never! These are adorable pictures that Pam's parents took of her when they rode along on a Saab turn of hers! I have added them to the Photo Album page, but I will also link them here and here for your convenience!

Also, Pam it's too bad we missed each other when you were in MSP! Thanks for the note though. I left you a note in my mailbox just in case you checked to see if I had removed the one you left for me. Oh well, maybe next time we will actually connect!

Message from Nikki on Tue Dec 16 14:27:05 2003

Hey everyone! Sorry I haven't been around for a while! I too, have been very busy! Lots of 4 day trips, for me! (yuk!) Three days are fine, but I think four is just a little too much :) And of course, in CVG, thats basically ALL we have as trips, coming in January! go figure! But I might not be working in January...Long story, but I will explain more later (I should know by tomorow) Please pray for me :) Thanks! Anyways, thanks for the card, Nadine :) That was sweet :) have a great holiday everyone, and hopefully we won't all have to work on Christmas Eve, and Day (fat chance, I know!) Bye :) luv, Nikki ps- Joseph! Good to hear from you! Mary's cell # is: 586-873-5841 :)

Message from Nadine on Mon Dec 15 16:28:55 2003

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!!!!!!!!HAPPY SNOW DAYS!!!! BYE

Message from Lisa on Mon Dec 15 07:10:23 2003

Hello!!! I've been randomly selected to sit ARR until 1445 today, so I decided to pass some time and play around with this internet thingy. Nadine, thanks for the Christmas card. Well, I guess I'll go in the dark 4-wall boxed 10x10 ARR room and cat nap for a while. BYE BYE!!

Message from Karen on Sun Dec 14 07:18:23 2003

Hey everyone... the board has been a little quiet here! Are we all flying a lot? They actually left me alone for 2 reserve days last week, after flying me 8 straight reserve days before that (days off in there too of course). Today I am sitting ready reserve, and I just read a note in my mailbox that Pam is "in town" so I hope I see her today! Yesterday I finished up a crappy 2 day trip. Day 1 was my birthday - not a big deal at my age, but still it was kind of disappointing to have a pattern that didn't even give me a dinner break on my b-day. I did have a lunch break, and I ran into Heather, so I got to have lunch with her and her crew!!! It was a great birthday lunch after all!! After that I had a CMX turn where we got stranded for a couple hours due to heavy snowfall, so that made the rest of our day late (got into LNK at 11:00 - I was already dreading 9:00 as being too late!), they had to delay our morning flight out of LNK to give us the legal rest, and then our Day 2 flights were all delayed too! Oh well, that's the name of this game, isn't it? Today ARR, tomorrow, according to Crew Voice, I have a day trip. I think we really are getting short staffed!! Hope you guys are doing well, post something! :)

Message from Joseph on Wed Dec 10 20:15:41 2003

Hey Everyone. Just wanted to wish everyone a Merry Christmas. Karen, If you don't mind.....Mary Young called and left a message for me to call her, but she did not leave her number. Would you email me with her number if you know it. My email is Jpacqt@aol.com. Happy New Year to everyone

Message from Nadine on Mon Dec 8 15:41:47 2003

hey karen looks like it's just you and me where is everyone??? i made it home i am back on reserve tomarrow my friends said they have been using them like crazy this is gonna be a fun month!!! work ahead!! hey did you see that raise on our check :)

Message from Karen on Sat Dec 6 21:59:52 2003

Just got done with a 2 day Saab trip - ran into Marlene at MSP! Very cool. Now I have 3 days off - I needed tomorrow off to go to something of my daughter's at her college - it's the first time I ever traded reserve days with myself. I faxed in the request to CS late one night and it was approved by morning... easy! Mesaba is all over our local news again, with word that negotiations are at an impasse. The 30 day cooling off period will likely begin on Monday, pointing to Jan 8th as the earliest possible strike date. They can still negotiate during the 30 days, and the pilots will have the added leverage that a strike deadline has been set. Also, we should hear on the Avros within a week.... I just don't know what to think about those anymore. I really think if we lose them, we will get something else, but it wouldn't be announced for a while. This will be an interesting few weeks, won't it.

Message from Nadine on Sat Dec 6 13:24:33 2003

hello where is every one??? i am in CHS i am visiting my meme and papa i got a couple of days off in a row and non reved down here hope all is well bye?)

Message from Nadine on Wed Dec 3 14:40:47 2003

hello all day 3 of a 3 day omg i almost killed my 1st pax today at like 7 am i am not a morning person as it is we were in the middle of brding when a men comes on with a car seat and his wife is at the bottom of the stairs with the other seat the stroller and two kids when she came on carrying the baby and seat and her youg son in front of her the husband flipped yelling at her are you crazy why couln't u have waited for me then while people were almost done brding the rampee yelled up she couldn't close the stroller and they were gonna have to get off and do it so i politely said sir can u please go close the stroller? he yelled at me!!! i am well aware of what i have to do and mabey if you'd clear the aisle for me i can get off and do it i said nicel with a smile :0 sir i am just relaying the message and he strarted yelling at me so i ignored him and started my 1st announcement all the pax were sick of him and wife and crying kids so then.. they were in 3 c d and 4 c and d she didn't like the seat belts in 4 so (i had a full plane mind you) had to ask the people in 2 to switch then as i was doing my final chk before closing the door here he goes again he said mam my diaper bag was on the stroller and i need it why did they put it in the back at this time the cargo door was closed we had to reopen it to get their bag now why didn't he get it when he foded the stroller??? o m g the pax were like i thought you were gonna kill him they were all pretty pissed at him it was crazy but.... i handled it with a smile!! how? i don't know

Message from Karen on Wed Dec 3 08:13:12 2003

Did you guys bid for vacation? The awards are out - I got what I wanted! I was nervous because it's spring break, so I didn't think I would get it. My daughter and I are going on a trip, so I am so pumped that I don't have to worry about how to get that time off! I got called off my trip this morning (day 3 of 3) as the ill FA took it back over. I am happy to be sent home, as I am so behind in stuff around the house, errands, etc. Yesterday I had my 19 hr layover in Rochester (MN) and the shuttle driver was soooo nice and took me to the mall, so I got some shopping done. Shame on me, I spent more on myself than on gifts (LOL). There is a new hotel in RST now, it's right by the airport which is nice, but nothing around it. The Kahler hotel downtown (right across the street from Mayo Clinic) was icky (used to be a hospital!) and a long drive, but at least there was stuff to do there, but now, just ask to go to the mall if you have that long layover! Right next door to the hotel is a restaurant called "The Hangar" - very good food, and the aviation theme is so well done!!! We kept noticing more and more details, like the lights outside are runway lights, they have a FIDS monitor behind the bar, the menu "Pre-Takoff" (appetizers), "First Class Meals", etc. I recommend it!

Message from Pam on Tue Dec 2 10:18:16 2003

Hey all, Thanks for your concerns and prayers! I have been working a lot too lately. I am going to be off for the next few days to spend with my son before he leaves. Ran into Shaun last night while waiting for the bus he is now working as a grounds agent. Also I have to tell you about what happened when we got back to DTW last night. I was going through the cabin doing the seat belts and was in the back. The groomers came on to clean when this girl comes up to me as says "what is this?" She had a cathater bag (SP?) what people wear when they have urinary,kidney, bladder problems in her hand and it was full! She didn't know what it was. I go and grab our bio bag the pilot has to call it in, what a way to end a trip. Before we took off I was doing my safety check (now this plane had just got back) and the PBE seal was broken, the FA told commasary that the plane didn't need anything! No ice, no snacks, no coffee, no paper work for the Liquior (was looking for her name!) needless to say I was pretty mad. We had to delay the flight so the machanics could come fix the PBE and the lav door was broken too. Hope everyone is doing ok, hang in there and we will have a year under us before we know it.

Message from Karen on Tue Dec 2 08:11:54 2003

Yes Nadine, I am working 8 out of 10 days! That's a 3 day trip, 2 days off, 2 day trip, 3 day trip! I have never worked that many days straight since I started! Well today I have a long layover in Rochester, MN. Hopefully they will take me to the mall.

Message from Nadine on Mon Dec 1 13:55:34 2003

hello all pam you know i am already praying for you and yours :) karen i totally understand i am on the same three day as twice before these girls pick and chose what they want to work like notice we all get stucjk with the canada part of the trip? i know alot of senior people and they just drop what they don't feel like doing!! i think they should be happy with having a line! i would! i 'd take a sucky schedule at least you'd have a schedule!! sorry all it's just frustrating at times i heard besides shaun at least 2 other reserves quit we are going to be wrking like crazy this month all my friends (3) that are on reserve are all wrking right now too!!! thanks for listening :) take care fly safe

Message from Karen on Sun Nov 30 10:48:06 2003

Pam, I will for sure be praying for your son and your entire family. Nikki - no offense taken as I can see how people might think that. Sometimes people seem that way and then when I get them talking they are actually nice, and sometimes - nope, they are just that way! Oh well - some people ARE nice! And I promise to be nice! I did see you briefly in the hallway yesterday, and now I am in the crew room right now. Get this you guys - is this obvious or what? I am covering a sick call for a 4 day Saab trip. CS told me that she might feel better so it might not be the whole trip. Ok. So now my update today (day 2) is that she will be ready to pick up the trip tomorrow morning - where... we just happen to be overnighting where SHE LIVES! (Eau Claire) How obvious is that?! Wait it gets worse! Then next night is in EAU too! The crew is DH'ing to EAU tonight, so I will go home at that point. No problem for me :) but I can't believe how transparent she is with this sick call!!!! Let's see... sick Sat & Sun on a holiday weekend, then all better when we overnight where she lives! LOL Hope you all had a good Thanksgiving!

Message from Nikki on Sat Nov 29 17:30:28 2003

Hey everyone :) I am in MSP, and no offence at all, Karen, but it sucks today... It seems to me that the people in this crew room are not nearly as friendly as at others...Oh well...I guess each base has its different personalities, right?! I am on day 4 of a 4 day, and am SO ready to go home! But the crew is cool :) We had fun in Regina ;) I also met a realy cowboy, that participated in a real rodeo! He was funny...His accent was so think, i could barely understand him! Anyways, I, as well, am working on Christmas Eve, Day and New Years...Well, someone is waiting for this computer, so i should go now...Shaun, I will always look for you around DTW...You seemed to be in a not too good mood the other day...Is wverything going ok? Talk to everyone soon, and Pam, I will defifnitely keep Chris in my prayers :) Nikki

Message from Pam on Sat Nov 29 08:58:49 2003

Hello all. Hope everyone had a nice Thanksgiving! Ours was very nice a little sad because I found a few days before that my son will be leaving for Iraq sometime in January. We don't know if he will be home for Christmas they are sending him to Texas for training the 10th, so needless to say this is really hard. Please keep him (his name is Chris) in your prayers along with all the other soldiers who are in this war and those who are about to go.

Message from Nadine on Thu Nov 27 10:43:20 2003

shauny :) hope to still see you here i am doing rr on thanksgiving :( i have like 68 hrs this month i am wrkin xmas and new years too yes karen thanks again for this site hey recurrent is in 6 months! we made it 1/2 a year it flew by fast get it flew by lol i hope everyone that is still here stays! i saw mary yesterday shaun can i have your vest??? bye all

Message from Marleen on Tue Nov 25 12:13:45 2003

Hey all, just a quick note about my weekend. My husband and I successfully non-reved to AZ for the weekend! Went to Sedona, Flagstaff, the Grand Canyon (magnificent!) and Phoenix-saw the Cardinals/Rams game. We didn't get a flight out until the third flight, but we eventually made it to MSP. The CVG flight was actually delayed, so we were able to get on that flight and made it home by 2100 ish. Unfortunately, I must have eaten something that did not agree with me because I got sick after we got home. Called in today, but I'm sure I'll be better by tomorrow and working on Thanksgiving. Did you get your DEC schedules? I got my GDO again, but did not get off for X-Mas or New Year. Oh well. You're schedules are so crazy! I have blocked 16 hours this month!! Must be on reserve at the wrong time. I'm sure it will pick up. Have a great holiday, where ever you are!

Message from Pam on Tue Nov 25 09:28:02 2003

Hey All Shaun I'll be looking for you and save the sick sac's for you too! LOL...Nikki I did have a great crew this weekend the FA was Tracy Thompson......so nice. The CA was Hassian and FO Braddick (sp? but sounds like that) Sorry we missed each other. Gezz they did abuse me though. I got back Monday thinking I was done but noooooo they called me for a EVV trip on the SAAB and B U M P Y wow....then thought I was done but nooooooooooo had another trip. The last trip the crew was already over their 14 hours and tried to get out of the trip but nooooooooo then we had two tugs that broke on us doing the push back, not one BUT two...how wierd is that so we were more delayed cause we had to be de-iced....no problem there, I even wanted to lift up the wings just to be sure they hit everything!! LOL So they did use me and abuse me yesterday but I'm now off till Friday. Hope everyone has a nice Thanksgiving (ya I know working it will be hard) Fly safe everyone and again Karen thanks so much for designing this website!!!!!!

Message from Shaun on Mon Nov 24 17:18:16 2003

Hey Nadine....yup this is the time of year the saab gets bumpy. REAL bumpy. After this fall you wont feel a thing. Pax will look worried and you'll be going what? whats wrong? oh is it bumpy? LOL just dont let them pass you their sic sac as they walk off the plane. "I said thank you and have a nice day, not thank you for your sic sac!" HAHA

Message from Nadine on Mon Nov 24 13:49:02 2003

shaun :( good luck to you it's official i am wrking on thanksgiving i heard it on crew voice :( i saw pam and lisa yesterday both doing good have fun flying its been pretty bumpy on that saab pax said i missed my calling as an actress they don't know how i managed to smile and stay calm it took alot of effort :) bye

Message from Shaun on Mon Nov 24 00:39:48 2003

Hi all...sorry i havent posted in a while. Just thought I'd give a quick update...Nov 30th is my last day flying the line or sorry reserve. :) i will now be a ramp rat in detroit and its official. go figure last stretch of 5 reserve days i was in MEM the whole time. They knew i was leaving the line! So i will still try to read the message board. But now working 5 days a week and taking 3 classes next semester so i will be busy. I hope you all are doing well. I still think its great that Karen made this webpage. Most classes break up and only talk when they run into each other. Great job Karen. Well all safe flying and I wish you all the best of luck. Look for me pushing back/ grooming/ or loading your plane in DTW. Take Care!

Message from Karen on Sun Nov 23 08:50:02 2003

Hey guys - Nikki, maybe we can get together on Wednesday. I just learned on Crew Voice that I have a 3 day jet trip starting tomorrow. It's a neat trip - it's been a while since I've been excited looking at a pairing... long layovers! Anyway... I will be in CVG & DTW on Monday but not long enough to see anyone I don't think. However... Wednesday I will have 3+ hours to kill from 9:10 to 12:55 in MSP, so you should call my cell 763-443-6103! Do you have any length of time on the ground here that day (at that time) Nikki?

Message from Nikki on Sat Nov 22 14:49:30 2003

Oh Pam, that sucks! I am sitting here in DTW right now! That is so funny that they sent you to cover a Cincy trip! But you're almost guaranteed to have an awesome crew :) I would have called you yesterday, had I been in town, but I was called in for a three day that started at 6am friday...Oh well :) I haven't heard anything from Comair as of yet, and I really don't want to! Although I will be super pissed and offended if they don't offer me the job! They're so weird there, thought, you just never know! Well, I'll be in and out of here all day tomorow, too, so I'll look for all of you DTW people! karen, Im doing a 4day wed.-sat, over Thanksgiving, thats in and out of MSP all the time, so Ill look for you then! :) Nikki

Message from Pam on Fri Nov 21 12:42:51 2003

Well plans have changed.....I am now going on a 4 day out of cinci.....so Nikki, Marlene someone pleaseee call me I should get in there around 6ish tonight(flight leaves a 5:00.)They are DH'ing me out, spending the night then start work tomorrow morning. my cell phone number is 586-242-1864. See ya, everyone have a great and safe weekend. Nadine hang in there!

Message from Karen on Fri Nov 21 11:00:41 2003

Wow, it really does seem that we are getting short handed. Nadine, I feel bad that you are sitting there all frustrated - take a deep breath... Keep in mind that whenever they call you out to do a trip or just a turn, that they have you for 14 hrs. Maybe if you go into it thinking that, you won't be so upset if they lengthen your day. If people ask - are you just doing this turn? Instead of saying - yes, then I get to go HOME! .... say - as far as I know - but I still need to call CS when I am done and they could still use me until 10 pm if they want to! Not trying to sound Pollyana here, but I feel so bad for you, and just hope that if you approach it differently you will be happier. Nikki - I was so sad to hear about your interview, but I totally understand. Like Pam said, let's try to hang in there and ride it out. Hopefully good news is around the corner. There is a snow storm coming! It's already in South Dakota, and we are supposed to get over 8 inches here by the time it ends on Monday. I go back on reserve tomorrow, so should be interested. I bet I have to cover some flights for stranded crews!

Message from Nadine on Fri Nov 21 09:52:01 2003

hello all :) they are so short on reserves!!! they called me late i had like an hour to get here there was a mem crew on break they pulled their fa off to do a overnight i picked up her overnite and was suppose to be home and off by 11 am but now i am sitting here for three hours to do a turn and i will not be home til 8 pm :( :( :( i am sooooooo mad so what is every one doing for thanksgiving? my friends and i are having it on sat :) bye

Message from Pam on Fri Nov 21 09:37:51 2003

Hi all, Karen it was great seeing you, I had a great time! Angie thanks for coming too. Sorry the rest of you didn't make it, I know it is hard to get everyone's schedule coordinated off at the same time. Nikki I too hope everything works out and am always praying about this. I still love being a flight attentant and try to keep a positive attitude about what is all going on. I have seen this in other busineses when changes are happening alot of rumors fly, people are upset, just like what is going on here. I truly believe that once the contract is signed sealed and delivered things will start to turn around for the better. Changes are good but it's scary while it's going on. My motto is: Attitude is Altitude! Hang in there guys and safe flying!! Doing a high speed tomorrow night to YOW my hubby is going with me for the first time!

Message from Karen on Thu Nov 20 09:35:04 2003

Hi again - I had a great visit in DTW yesterday with Pam and Angie! So good to see them both again! Seems like just yesterday that we were all together at training. It was fun to have a chance to "swap war stories" and compare notes. It was good for some laughs. Like I've said before - one thing I do miss about this job is that I feel like I don't have "work friends"... I mean the crews have been really nice, but I can walk into the crew room, have it be full, and not know anyone. That's why I really like keeping in touch with you guys. I think it is such good support - I don't feel so alone. I really think that so much of this job is attitude and mind set. We are surrounded by so much negativism, and it is contagious. I've only had one "bummer crew" where the FO was slamming things around in the flight deck shouting "I hate this job" - and that was the longest 3 day trip I've ever had. In fact I had different pilots for the last turn of that trip and they were so friendly, I couldn't believe how much more energized and happy I felt after the crew change. What a difference it made! So if we can just tough it out - I hope there will be good news soon. Nadine - we can't vote on the merger because we are not members yet. From what I have read our union would be hurting financially if we don't merge, meaning much higher dues. Yes, we will have higher dues with the merge but not for 4 years. A larger union means a stronger union. I confess I am not completely educated on the matter, but I do have faith with our leadership that has spent a lot of time and effort studying the whole situation, and they are supporting the merger completely. Remember that there is an "opt out" clause, that we can essentially "un-merge" later if we want to.

Message from Nadine on Wed Nov 19 08:18:11 2003

hello :) Nikki good luck to you i'm sure it will all wrk out in the end :) i am on a break i hate these long breaks they make your day longer! hey what is every one voting for the cwa merger? i think no because they'll take more money from us every one else? bye 4 now

Message from Nikki on Tue Nov 18 20:29:55 2003

Anyways, for those of you who are religious, I would like to ask for your prayers about this situation. I pray that everything just returns to normal, the pilots get a great contract, and we get even MORE flying! That would be awesome, and maybe I can tell that 'other company' to take their higher paying, more stable, better overnights job and shove it (God, I'd love to do that!) .Well, hope all is well with all of you, and have fun at lunch tomorow! I wish I could be there! I'll be thinking of you! Talk to ya soon :) Nikki

Message from Nikki on Tue Nov 18 20:26:49 2003

Hey everyone :) I haven't been around because I actually have been semi-busy! I babysit the airport a lot, lately, and it really sucks now, because our gates and everything else are in terminal 3, but the old crewroom (and most importantly, the couch!) is still in terminal 1! Oh well...I regret to say that I will not be able to make it to the reunion...I feel weird about saying this, but I have an interview with another airline tomorowake a guess...), which lasts from 9am-4pm. I am eally starting to get nervous, and leaving Mesaba is THE LAST thing I want to do. I guess I'm just nervous about the whole company's situation, and I'm trying to keep my options open. Since I am based in Cincy, if they were to close our base, I would have to commute to one of the other 3 (probably Mem), BUT, since Mesabab would no longer be going into CVG (since we're jets only), that means I would have to PAY all the time on Pinnalce or NW just to get to work! Considering my financial situation, that is just NOT an option, at all! So I hope you all see where I'm coming from...I SO do not want to leave, but (if I am even offered the job!) I might just have to . Continued...

Message from Marleen on Tue Nov 18 15:08:34 2003

Hey everyone, have a good lunch reunion tomorrow! I'll be thinking of you. I'm on reserve for 2 days, then have 4 days off, so I doubt if they'll use me. But, gotta sit around the house just in case. Joseph, I am glad to hear everything is going well. If you ever find yourself back in the Cincy area, look me up 513-932-2784. I have not been working much this month. Let me rephrase that: I have not worked at all this month. A two day trip, a few days on ready reserve, an overnight in MSP... but the house is sure clean! All of you on the Saab, stay warm! Think of me at lunch tomorrow!

Message from Pam on Tue Nov 18 12:56:37 2003

HEY GUYS! We got a little problem with our lunch tomorrow. I just called the resturant for reservations and they no longer serve lunch YUKS! Karen I left you a voice mail on your cell. In case some don't read this until it's too late what we can do is just meet in the parking lot there and then go somewhere else. There is a Mexican resturant not far so we can all caravan there. If it's just a few of us we can also go to Plymouth and do a little shopping and hit the Box Bar Grill (best hamburgers this side of the Mason Dixon line!!!) Anyways I'm sorry about this, gezzz you would think they would at least hold the resturant open for lunch until after tomorrow just for us right??? Looking forward to seeing everyone! Also Tom our manager said someone picked up my Thanksgiving needless to say I am so happy and Thankful!! Any questions call me at home 586-268-0596 I'll be here. See you tomorrow!!!!

Message from Nadine on Tue Nov 18 11:55:20 2003

:) karen u r alive :) i just saw angie she is doing good :) i am on a trip i have a big break from 9-12 wed amand thur the same 9-12 am look for me karen what time are you in? pam my friend said she'd pick up thanksgiving for you if you still need it so whats going on karen you should print out a flier to remind every one of this board and put it in everyones mail box :) later

Message from Karen on Tue Nov 18 10:02:10 2003

Oh Nadine, don't be fooled by my silence. I'm checking the board daily, or even several times a day! I just don't want to bore everyone by posting constantly! I'm looking so forward to lunch tomorrow. Bought my pass, have my listing, and loads look good. See you tomorrow!

Message from Nadine on Tue Nov 18 08:37:41 2003

hello all i started a 3 day today :( no lunch 4 me where is every one? karen is not even on here!! pam did u find someone to wrk on thnksgvng? shaun are you still with us??? bye :)

Message from Pam on Fri Nov 14 16:31:15 2003

Glad you made it back Nadine, I'm going there tomorrow night, scheduled for a 3 day trip. How is the hotel? We have a long layover there, does the shuttle take you anywhere? Found a nice mall about 20 minutes from the hotel!

Message from Nadine on Fri Nov 14 15:47:24 2003

i am back in america :) i was stuck in london for 2 days!!!! i guess they are short on reserves today i saw kim and my friend april just got back from 5 days in mem to go home to get called back in for a turn crazy!!! hope every one is good bundle up the saabs are COLD!!!!!!! bye:)

Message from Nadine on Thu Nov 13 06:25:39 2003

hello all :) sitting here in yxu right now waiting for the winds to stop so we can leave pam sorry to hear the news may God bless him and keep him safe joe nice to hear from you pam you are so lucky to fly with lisa i want to fly with a class mate i saw kim yesterday she is doing good pam when you put lunch invites in everyones mail box you should of reminded them of the message board!!!! make another flier :) fly safe bye

Message from Joseph on Wed Nov 12 21:52:33 2003

HI All is well. I am in Branson working with our music group. I could not do two things at once......of course, I thought I could. Who was I fooling. ANyway, I am happy and do not miss it.....miss u guys though. I want to stay n touch with you guys and I will, I promise. I really miss all of you. I have not once missed the job.....yes, that surprises me too. Depp, my partner keeps me so busy with our company. Guys, you are aware that we have a music group. We were just so certain that I could do both.. It was weearing me down quickly..and looking around at some of those flight attendants who have been worn down, I just couldn't end up looking like them HA .I'm teasing, although some of them do look pretty rough, huh? Anyway, all is well here, Miss you all terribly. I will stay in touch. Please all of you email me or call sometime. I would love to talk, and I will call you , if youleave me your number...ALL are welcome to come and visit. I have a huge home on the lake, plenty of room and tickets to shows here. LOVe u all and miss you. Joseph jpacqt@aol.com 417-230-3242

Message from Marleen on Tue Nov 11 16:08:29 2003

Shaun, I am sorry to hear about your decision, but I do understand where you are coming from. Where will you be working, so we can at least look for you? And do keep in touch with us on this board! Pam, the best of luck to your son. Tell him to keep his eyes open and always be aware of his surroundings. God speed to him. I've made arrangements for my husband and I to non-rev to AZ the weekend before Thanksgiving. We are going to try and hit Sedona, the Grand Canyon, and a Cardinals game. The loads didn't look too bad, so we're going to try and go FC the whole trip. Do you think we get lunch? Everybody stay warm this winter, and I'll see ya around.

Message from Pam on Tue Nov 11 12:11:16 2003

Hey all, Shaun I understand what your saying but I had a talk with our supervisor Tom yesterday. Things do look pretty bleak right now but he said he thinks that the union will come through at the 11th hour and there will be a contract settlement. This sort of thing is common amoung situations involving union. Everyone gets all upset (rightfully so) but my husband said the same thing about the 11th hour thing. UPS did this, the big three does this so hang in there, see what happens after the holidays. Regarding the AVRO's Tom said he didn't know at this point what will happen. I think with these new sleek jets they are making it's possible that after the settlement we will fly something like the CRJ's. Shaun I hope you stick with this, have you given notice yet? I did a two day trip on the AVRO starting Saturday and Sunday I worked with Lisa, the other FA had called off for Sunday. We worked hard Sunday, had four trips and all we full, two were over sold, it was crazy but fun working with Lisa! On another note, my son has been called up for active duty effective Dec 8th and will be deployed sometime in January or February. We aren't sure where they will be sending him either to Iraq, Afganistan or Panama, hope it's one of the latter two if he has to go anywhere. I am scheduled to work starting Thanksgiving and called Mary our manager and told her of the situation with my son leaving. They have posted a request to pick up my reserve for that day, hope someone comes through for me.

Message from Karen on Tue Nov 11 07:57:37 2003

Shaun, no! Say it isn't so! That is really a shame! I am glad you will still be checking in with us on this web site though. I am in the MEM crew room right now, day 3 of a 3 day on the Avro. I wish that they would hurry up and announce it if we are keeping the jets so that they can start hiring again. I think we are getting so short staffed in MEM that us MSP and DTW people are going to be putting in more and more time here. I did find a silver lining to the cloud however - I am wearing short sleeves! I thought I was done with short sleeves for the winter! Nadine, Pam knows about the lunch rsvp's. I am coming for sure, so whoever is there, great. If you can't make it we understand. Shaun, what concourse will you be working - would I see you when in DTW? This news of yours bums me out - you won the First Class Award for our class! You can't leave us!

Message from Nadine on Mon Nov 10 13:12:09 2003

:( shaunie thats so sad :( well hope we still get to see you so whats going on with lunch?? who all is off?hey shaun do you have any vests you wanna sell? take care all bye

Message from Shaun on Sun Nov 9 17:18:10 2003

Hey everyone. Hope everyone is doing ok. I had a problem with the 30/7 thing also Karen about two weeks ago, they gave me a 29 hour 4 day that ended at 2130 on a sat then decided to call me at 0800 on sunday for a 7 hour day trip! I could have sworn we were covered by 30/7. Found out no, so I called in sick for it. They are crazy! There is no way it would have been safe for me to do that day trip. Well that brings me into my next thing. Time has changed this job and especially at Mesaba. The moods are horrible with the pilot contract negotiations, it is nothing like it used to be when I first started 3 1/2 years ago. Not to mention the fact that reserve for us will probably be another year or two even at the rate we are going. So with that said I am putting in a transfer request to go back to the ramp here in Detroit. I know the winter is coming and all but I really cant handle not knowing when I am or am not going to be working and on top of that even have a job. Sad to say but I will be leaving the line again and this time for good. So wish you all the best of luck. I will still post messages and read this website. Talk to you all later....

Message from Nadine on Sat Nov 8 09:31:18 2003

hello all where is every one? i saw heather, dora and kim i did arr again yesterday hope all is well :) bye

Message from Karen on Fri Nov 7 17:18:15 2003

Hey all - I will be sitting ARR in MSP tomorrow (Saturday) so if you come through, look for me! Cell # 763-443-6103 Well, I talked to Tim Evenson about my 30/7 deal, and basically they are totally within their rights to fly us that much, since the wording is "scheduled to..." since when we are "scheduled" it is for 3.75 hrs - a day of reserve. Oh well, whatever. He said bottom line, is though that if you ever feel fatigued to the point of not being safe, then just say so and you can be pulled off the next flight. And I feel so much better now because they hardly worked me at all this week!!! All I have done in the last 7 days is one turn to RST! So now tomorrow is ARR and that's fine. Hope to see any of you who might be around! Looking forward to lunch on the 19th!

Message from Marleen on Fri Nov 7 10:35:19 2003

Hey guys and gals-it seems there are all kinds of "loop holes" in the contract where things "do not apply" to reserve people. That 30/7 thing surprises me, Karen! We also do not get trip guarantee if the FA we took the trip from called in sick, then took the trip back. YOu just revert to going back on reserves. Oh, and Nikki and I finally had our manager meeting yesterday! The meeting was good, and Nikki was kind enough to indulge me as I asked three pages worth of questions. (Thanks, Nikki!) Point being; we do NOT get an hour report time to the plane. That matters when you hold a line so they know when to start your per diem, but if crew scheduling calls you at 0500 for a 0630 show for a 0700 flight and you chose on your own to check you mailbox etc. and don't get the flight out by 0700, it is a FA delay. My next question is: how LITTLE time do they give you before it becomes a scheduling delay? If your hour and a half overlaps the time that they start boarding? Fifteen minutes? Five minutes? I would thing you would at least get a half hour, but who knows now? In other news, I forgot to mention that I ran into Heather a few weeks ago. We both RONed in DSM and had a few minutes to eat dinner together before racking out. She is finding time to take classes and fly, and was even thinking about taking an additional class next semester. She was doing well overall. And yes, Nadine, I will post a note for you in our "crew room." I think the only people who will be going in there are the ready reserve people, so don't be surprised if you don't get any calls from CVG FAs. If you ever do find yourself in CVG with a long layover and want to go to the old crew room in Terminal 1, the code on the door is now 1432. Well, two more days of reserve, then 2 days off, so we'll see if they call. Safe flying, all!!

Message from Nadine on Wed Nov 5 19:00:27 2003

hello guess what i actually have uniform pieces for sale i had to buy them all :( help me sell them karen please post a note in your crew room marlene you too :) skirt 12a $20.00 blazer8a $25.00 trench coat 10a $30.00 oh i have a new # 313-995-1950 thanks:)

Message from Pam on Wed Nov 5 09:15:01 2003

No problem Nadine if your friend comes. I will be putting a flyer in everyone's mailbox and comat to Nikki, Nichole and Danita (I know Marlene can't make it and Karen is helping me with this) I have been off for the last 4 days but will be back on reserves tomorrow for the next 5 days so you guys look for the flyers sometime this weekend.

Message from Nadine on Wed Nov 5 08:38:48 2003

where is everyone??? i have my 3rd high speed tonite!!! i guess they are short on reserves again!! pam count me in hopefully they don't call me!! do you mind if my friend apryl goes i would love for you all to meet her bye 4 now:)

Message from Pam on Sun Nov 2 07:41:08 2003

Hi all, well I too have been busy just got back from a 4 day trip out of MEM. The crew was pretty nice if you like flying with a "vally girl" OMG that voice liked to have drove me nuts (she was a FO) She was smart enough to fly the plane but thats about it! She is from a weathly family and living off of Daddy's dime. We had long lay overs in AEX, LFT and TUP not good places to be for any lenght of time. When we were in LFT a PAX told me about a nice cajun resturant not far from the hotel, about 3 miles. The hotel wouldn't take us anywhere so I wanted to go in on a cab. It would have cost each of us 3.50/ea and the CA didn't want to. Valley girl said she didn't care one way or the other so we didn't go. I almost went by myself but it's really not a good idea for us to do that. Only good thing out of this whole trip was no delays, no problems with the aircraft and it was warm. WOW Karen you did do some flying this week, nice little "loop hole" in the contract which is not right!!!! Ran into Nikki, Nichole and Danita all look great! Nikki was doing ARR there in MEM and all said they would try and make it to our little reunion. Nadine sorry to hear about you and your boyfriend breaking up, hope your doing ok. We need to know who all will be coming to the reunion so that I can make a reservation. I am thinking of this nice Itilian resturant about 15 minutes from the airport, they have really good food there and a nice atmosphere.

Message from Karen on Sat Nov 1 20:54:49 2003

What a week! I blocked over 33 hrs in FIVE days! Remember in class when we learned a FA "will never be scheduled more than 30 hrs in 7 days? Guess what? I was told by CS that "that doesn't apply to reserves" (!!!). The reason being that the exact wording in the contract pertains to the constructing of schedules for line holders, meaning that FA's can fly more than that if they choose to pick up extra trips. It doesn't mention reserves one way or the other, so my opinion is that it wasn't meant to declare open season on reserves, but in not specifying it, that door is certainly open. I talked to my mgr about it and she was kind of shocked actually, but then said yes CS is right, that is how it is worded, and that maybe AFA should think about that for the next negotiations. I emailed Tim Evenson (union pres) about it too. I just don't think it's a fair interpretation of the "spirit" of the contract. And I'm on reserve again tomorrow so technically I could go over 40 hrs in 7 days. Oh well, I hate to complain, because all in all, I haven't been abused over the months. I just think that 26 flights in 5 days is a lot. Fine if you pick that much flying up on your own free will, but I did NOT! The pairings were crappy with hardly any breaks in between flights, and when we did have little breaks scheduled, they vanished when we were late in all the time. And the cold front made for some rough flying - I got a record going here: FIVE sic sacs on one flight! It's amazing how much more fatigued you feel after rough flights too. Sorry - there I go complaining again - I don't mean too, but I have to vent I guess! Thanks for listening!

Message from Nadine on Sat Nov 1 11:07:42 2003

hello all :) i am on reserve the 19th but if they don't call me i'll be there! i just got off a 3 day whoa they sure do work us long hours!!! my friend apryl is in mem sitting 5 days res!!!i did that alot at first. i flew about 53 hrs this month do you know if we can pick up open time on our day off? i haven't been on here lately cuz my boyfriend and i broke up and i used to use his com i am at the library right now safe flying bye

Message from Marleen on Fri Oct 31 15:43:21 2003

Seems our lives have all picked it up a notch. I did 70 hours on OCT and just got a call for a 2 day starting tomorrow. I did not get off on the 19th-hope you guys have a good reunion anyway! You know we are moving terminals in CVG tomorrow. Thank God I know in advance what time I have to be there so I have PLENTY of traveling time. I'm going to time myself to see just how much more time it's going to take now-20 minutes is my guess. We don't even have a crew room; just a place where our mailboxes will be. I called Lisa Lang to ask about where to sit when we are ready reserve-the old crew room! That is a 20 minute walk away! So I guess we'll just have to sit in the terminal area. She did however mention that I'm due for a review. Good-I thought I was slipping through the cracks. I did get my GDO (plus one more day) this month, so my hubby and I are talking about going somewhere. Maybe the Grand Canyon. Think I'm going to try and trip trade to get 5 days off. Wish me luck! Pam, I love the story about you and your parents! Are the pics up yet? Happy Halloween, all!

Message from Karen on Wed Oct 29 08:59:08 2003

Oh Nikki I'm glad you updated. I was going to ask you how your stay in MEM went! Unreal that you were there with Mary! That flight of mine you were on was so fun. How rare is that to have no pax, and just be able to sit and talk the whole time! Hope you can make it on the 19th! Pam and I will nail down the details and then we'll let you all know what's going on exactly. So are all you guys flying a lot? Is that why this board is getting sort of quiet? Well I am flying a lot more! Last night I got in from a 2 day, and I'm about out the door for a 3 day right now. If we are getting short staffed, our lives as reserves could be changing! I really didn't mind sitting at home :) I would like some long layovers, but no such luck. Look for me if you come through MSP! Sorry I missed you yesterday Nikki!

Message from Nikki on Tue Oct 28 11:10:53 2003

Oh yeah, forgot to mention that a week or so ago, I was sent to MEM, to sit reserve at the hotel, and Karen was our flight attendant! the flight was delayed a little over an hour, so it just ended up being me and a 747 FO and a Saab FO :) All four of us had a good time just talking and catching up. Karen, your haircut looks great, by the way! So I get to MEM and call the hotel shuttle, and who is sitting in the passenger seat, but. lo and behold, Miss Mary! It was awesome ) We got rooms near eachother (she was there for the same reason I was) and we hung out with my cousin (who lives in MEM) for most of the weekend! He took us to Beale St, and gave us tons of free food from his Deli (you know how we're always broke!) Then we were finally sent on trips monday and tuesday :( Oh well, we had all of saturday and sunday to catch up, and it was really fun :) See ya guys soon :)

Message from Nikki on Tue Oct 28 11:03:58 2003

Hey everyone! Thats exciting, about the reunion :) I even think I am off that day! I have been so tired lately! Before, I was complaining about not being used, but now its the opposite! I finished a three day on Sunday night (seems they ALWAYS use me on weekends!), and they told me to be back in for Ready reserve at 5:45 am Monday! I was so pissed, but whatever...And now today (tuesday) they have me deadheading on a pinnacle flight to MSP, just to work a leg back to Cincy...Of course, I wont get back until 10:30 pm this evening! Oh well, I'll look for you, Karen! Hope all is well with everyone, and talk to/see you soon! :)

Message from Karen on Sun Oct 26 11:52:01 2003

Ok you guys - check your schedules! We are going to have a "mini-reunion" for lunch on Wednesday, Nov 19th in Detroit! I will fly in for the day, and hopefully others can as well. If you are DTW based and are on reserve, but not flying, please throw your uniform and luggage in the car and come and join us for lunch! We have not set a definite time yet, Pam is planning the location. We should also drop notes in people's mailboxes... Pam, as co-chair of this event, how about if you drop something in the DTW boxes and I'll co-mat to the MEM and CVG people. After we get the particulars nailed down I'll come up with a flyer and email it to you. I'm looking forward to seeing everyone again and we can compare notes on how things are going for us. As the only MSP FA in our class I don't run into you guys very often, so this will be fun. You guys been flying much? I start a 6 day block today, got called this morning (I was in church! Had my phone on vibrate in my pocket!) and they told me to head to the airport, not sure for exactly what yet, as they were still just putting it together. 20 minutes later as I was on my way they called and said forget it. Fine with me! Maybe I will get to see the Vikings game today after all!

Message from Pam on Fri Oct 24 07:52:59 2003

Karen I use Yahoo IM I'll add you to my list if thats what you use.

Message from Karen on Thu Oct 23 21:35:34 2003

Pam I love the pix your parents took! I will post them when I get a few minutes - hopefully tomorrow. Those are great stories from those flights too! I sat ARR today and ended up doing a fair amount of flying, believe it or not. Now a couple days off, but I work SIX days straight next week! Are any of you guys on AIM Instant Messenger? I am once in a while, with the screen name KEBoerner . If you are on there, what is your screen name? Add me to your buddy list!

Message from Nadine on Thu Oct 23 13:17:01 2003

hello all i am doing arr but i just woke up :) thanks God they didn't use me all week so i guess i can do this glad to see shaun back on:) miss you all hey did you se on your checks uniforms are paid off!!!! yeah raise is 1 chk away i can't wait so we did it 6 months 6 more to go till we all see each other again :) fly safe

Message from Karen on Wed Oct 22 14:30:47 2003

It will be posted no later than Oct 24th (Friday) at 5:00 pm - then we'll know if we can pull off a reunion!

Message from Pam on Wed Oct 22 13:36:16 2003

Does anyone know when the November schedule will be posted?

Message from Pam on Wed Oct 22 13:01:54 2003

Sounds like you had a fun trip Karen. I am off till Monday this was my GDO too but my plans fell through. My sister was suppose to come up this weekend but things came up and she can't make it. My husband and I talked about going to Vegas but the girls have things going on this weekend so decided to just stay home and finish our projects before the holidays kick in. My parents flew with me yesterday on my last turn of the four day trip, Karen I sent you a picture that they took of me doing my service. Anyways the CA made this nice announcement about them being on the flight plus I had about 6 PAX who were on their way to a convention in BMI. This one guy was a total trip! When I finished my long announcment after the door closed they all stared cheering and clapping, he yells out "that was the best announcment I have ever heard!!!" My parents thought that was really funny. On the way back I asked the CA to turn off the seat belt sign and my step dad then went through the cabin and collected the garbage. I gave him some of those wings we give the kids for him to wear while he went through the cabin. The pax's thought that was funny and gave him a round of applause when he finished!

Message from Karen on Wed Oct 22 10:08:27 2003

Pam that sounds fun! I haven't had a long layover in a long time! I got my GDO this month! First time ever! My daughter had her Fall Break and we went out to HPN and took the train into Manhattan. It was fun, but unfortunately what we really wanted was to get in to see the Regis/Kelly show, and we didn't. Then we tried the View and failed at that too. Oh well, we did the NBC backstage tour, and Empire State Building observatory and shopping. According to Crew Voice I'll be sitting ARR in MSP tomorrow (Thursday), so if you guys come through I hope to see you.

Message from Pam on Tue Oct 21 22:10:05 2003

Hey all, just got back from a 4 day trip on the Saab. We were doing the MEM routes and had a 17 hr layover in AEX (Alexandria, LA) Nice hotel and the shuttle will take you anywhere you want to go. Also had a long layover in EVV and went to this River Boat Casino.

Message from Marleen on Tue Oct 21 11:37:01 2003

Thanks for the feedback, guys. I was sure about the hour and 1/2, but I was wondering about the "hour report time" to get to the plane. And no, no meeting yet with any managers. Guess I'm slipping thru the cracks. Well, I've already blocked 59 hours this month-no phone call today, though, so I'm going to clean/decorate the house for fall today. Fly safe, all!

Message from Karen on Fri Oct 17 14:59:24 2003

Have you guys seen the new bulletin about briefing the pax in emergency exits?! We are supposed to explain to them about assessing conditions, how to open the door, about directing pax, and redirecting pax if the exit is blocked! Doesn't go into effect until the 20th. Any suggestions on the "slickest" way to accomplish all that in a nutshell? I would appreciate any tips! I think that is going to startle some people. They don't want to think that hard about the plane going down! Nadine, I thought of you when I got my pairing for last night's trip! They had me doing a high speed PLUS more flying! Whoever put the trip together apparently thought that as long as I was resting before the 14 hr duty was up it was ok, but the contract says that for a CDO once you hit your domicile it's over. So I called CS and politely questioned it ;) and he thought it was really weird too, and wondered how that happened. So of course, I ended up only doing the high speed. I have another tonight. Are you guys flying much? Oh one other landmark... this morning we needed to de-ice! First time of many I am sure!

Message from Pam on Thu Oct 16 17:32:53 2003

Hey Ms. Union Rep to be (Karen) LOL... you did have some very good points. I have been reading up on what the Railroad Labor Act is all about and the steps that are required before the union can actually call a strike, very intersting. Shaun you are so right about the "head games!" I'm trying not to worry to much about it all. Hope everyone put in their bids to at least have one of those Wednesday's off we talked about, it will be great to see you guys. Marleen and Nikki, I haven't seen you since we graduated nor have I seen Danita or Nichole. I think it will be good for us to get together especially with everything thats going on.

Message from Karen on Thu Oct 16 12:47:21 2003

Shaun I used to be a union rep in my former job, and negotiated several contracts. Does it show? LOL Seriously I would love to get involved at the union level if I am around long enough to become a member!

Message from Shaun on Thu Oct 16 12:15:48 2003

Well for all you DTW people, if you are looking for a backup just in case, Spirit is growing fast, just reconfigured all their planes, plan on adding TV's to boost marketing and picking up TONS of flying real soon. Look at their website periodically (spiritair.com) If they start massive hiring it could mean no reserve at all. Just a thought. Low fare carriers are the most stable right now and it sure beats wondering if you will have a job on a day-to-day basis. Thats all for now folks....see ya later BUH-BYE ;D

Message from Shaun on Thu Oct 16 12:15:27 2003

Hey everyone....First of all Karen you are great at looking at the whole picture like that. Also every consider on being a union rep? You would be great at it! :) Marleen yes they have to give you an hour and half. They ARE supposed to give you that hour report and no that can't be a FA delay. That is scheduling at its best! They use that to get you there faster because all in all it falls back on their skills as a scheduler not a FA delay. Yes Nadine is right, if you ever let them know you can be there in less and an hour and half they will make note of that on your personal "screen". They keep a blank page on the PC with little notes on it. Like called off on such and such a day/ can make it less than an hour and half etc. They use that screen alot when they have to choose someone for an assignment. They can get dirty. So with that said sometimes doing little favors for them is good other times it can backfire and they expect it all the time. Just be careful. As far as the strike, the avros being grounded, people being furloughed...i am honestly sick of the whole thing. This company and NW love to play head games and it really has an affect on employee morale and how employees end up treating passengers. They really know how to piss people off. Who knows what will happen. I just know that it has an affect on how well I do my job as much as I dont want it to. Hello? What do they expect? Everyone just goes to work thinking everything will be fine? These little scare tactics scare people, wondering if they have a job or not? Its all money money money, rule of all evil huh? CRAZY!

Message from Karen on Wed Oct 15 19:06:48 2003

Nadine, depends what you mean by "having an overnight". They can fly you in the morning as long as you get your 9 hr rest. If you have a high-speed tonight, then no, they cannot fly you in the morning for a turn. The other factor is how many block hours (max 8) you will have in a day, and also how many duty hours (max 14). Like my story from a couple of weeks ago, they put some turns together for me and it totalled 8:03 (3 minutes over legal) so they admitted they made a mistake and had to reduce it for me.

Message from Nadine on Wed Oct 15 15:01:53 2003

:) it will be okay :) listen to this is this legal? i have an overnight then they have me flying in the morning for a turn!!!! are they allowed?????

Message from Karen on Wed Oct 15 14:49:10 2003

Nadine I heard that too, about the painting - that rumor pertains to the five that are going out of service in Dec & Jan - not related to the possible loss of the whole fleet. It wouldn't surprise me if those five really are just being painted after all! They really can spin the information to suit their needs, can't they???

Message from Nadine on Wed Oct 15 11:22:18 2003

hello :) i did arr yesterday i saw pam she has a great new haircut! the new rumor is they are parking the rj's to paint them!! i am not that worried i talked to our mng tom and he said they are not that concerned. marleen you haven't had a meeting yet??? wow i had 2 and my third is next month! about scdling when they call tell them sorry i need my hr 1/2 if they know u can do it sooner they will use you i told them that and they never asked again but don't piss them off cuz then they will make your life hell :) good luck

Message from Karen on Wed Oct 15 09:58:07 2003

Pam I share your concern about the strike and the avros, however I am now convinced that the two issues are inter-related. Consider these points:
The pilots' union always knew there was an October deadline to terminate the Avro agreement, and they have always been negotiationg with that scenario as a possibility

The news last week was released by MESABA, not NW

The news is simply that NW is considering terminating the lease - a pretty vague claim, but in itself worthy of great news coverage

Mesaba asked for the extension to Dec 15 - again, that doesn't necessarily mean anything, but it sure does make the news

The timing of the announcement came during a marathon negotiation session

At the previous negotiating session the company was told by the mediator that they better come prepared to the next session, or the pilots would be released from mediation

If we lose the Avros it would come right before the increased summer flying - hello?! NW would have to instantly have a bunch of replacement aircraft ready to go

What would they replace them with? Do the math on a DC9 - the crew alone would add up to millions of $$/year in higher costs. CRJ's might be cheaper but how fast can they bring in that many CRJ's, and they would be looking at decreased capacity of 19 seats. If they plan to train their own pilots to fly the ARJ's they are looking at higher salary crews and expensive training.

This is why I see this announcement as a desparate and drastic attempt by the company to paint a doomsday picture in an attempt to errode support for the pilot's strike. To the pilots themselves, it has actually done the opposite, as they feel they truly have nothing to lose now. If we were to lose the Avros, FO's will be furloughed, and CA's downgraded to FO, and they now care more than before what the FO salary will be! I don't know if I'm right on all this, but I've worked a lot of days since the announcement and talked to a lot of pilots about it, and this is my theory. At least, it's how I sleep at night. Time will tell...

Message from Pam on Wed Oct 15 08:24:42 2003

Marleen I would definately talk to my manager about it! Scheduling did that to me a few weeks ago. I told them that there was no way I could get there in 45 minutes she said to go ahead and try (same story like yours) and that she would try and get someone who lived closer to the airport. I just got in the car to leave when she called back to say she had found someone. I don't know how close you live to the airport but don't they have someone doing ARR everyday? Isn't that what they are there for? I am so concerned with this strike stuff! Was in the crew room yesterday and guess they were having meetings, the "buzz" is that they will vote to strike! What NW is doing with the AVRO's and Mesaba dragging their heals with the pilot's contract this could get interesting. Have any of you noticed the stock prices? NW's went up to almost 13.00/share while ours continues to drop to almost 6.00/share

Message from Marleen on Tue Oct 14 13:43:54 2003

The reunion idea sounds great! I need to see when my hubby is going to San Diego and see if I can work it out, but I'll try. I'm a little pissed at crew scheduling right now. For two trips in a row they have called me at 0500 for a 0600 show/0700 flight. I argued with them about it the first time that I was supposed to have an hour and 1/2 and all that, so we agreed to that, but they said that if I couldn't get the flight off in a half hour that we would take a delay. Who would take the delay? Well, she wasn't sure (puts me on hold again) then said for the third time that she just needed me to get going and if I couldn't get the flight off by 0700 that it would probably be a FA delay! So I was pretty upset and felt almost threatened into not saying "yes" to this whole deal. But, I make it to the airport on time and get the flight off, blah, blah, then they called again this morning with the same request for the same trip! I'm not one to complain, but I think I need to report this to my manager (whom I have not had a meeting with yet) and send a copy to the union people. Can they just take the "hour before the flight" report time and shoo it out the window when it's convenient for them? Need some advise on how to handle this when it happens again next week. So, by the time I finish this trip, I will have blocked 59 hours-15 more than either AUG or SEP! Don't mind the work, but I do mind getting screwed into the trips. What do you think?

Message from Pam on Mon Oct 13 20:06:54 2003

Hey all just got back from a two day trip, spent the entire afternoon and night in CAK (now that was fun!) There is a Walmart close to the hotel so spent a while shopping which turned out great cause believe it or not I found shower curtains that matches the border in my new bathroom at Walmart of all places. Anyways flew with a couple of real nice guys we flew to PLN and YYZ today the leaves were beautiful! Hope most of us can get together for our minni reunion. I'm planning on picking Karen up from the airport and can pick anyone else up too if needed.

Message from Nadine on Mon Oct 13 19:48:22 2003

hello all tomarrow tue 10-12 i am ready res from545 am to 245 pm look 4 me :) bye

Message from Karen on Sun Oct 12 16:11:57 2003

CLASS REUNION NOTICE!!! Pam and I have scheduled a sort of 6 mos. class reunion to be held in November. If we all try to bid the 12th & the 19th off (they are both Wed's) then hopefully one of those two will work. The 19th would be our actually anniversary date! Our raise! Uni's paid off! I will fly into DTW since most of you are in DTW, and hopefully the MEM & CVG people might be able to fly in too. We will just have lunch - Pam has a place in mind I think, and I will fly back the same day. Bidding will start soon, so if you can manage it, try to join us and bid for those 2 days off!

Message from Karen on Sun Oct 12 16:05:31 2003

Well I just got back from a few days in and out of MEM. I saw Nicole while waiting for my first flight! We sat in CVG for 3 hours and I saw Nikki, and she was heading to MEM to sit reserve there, on MY FLIGHT! Wait- it gets even better! We had a mechanical delay (this is actually kind of funny because RIGHT after I told the agent I was ready for pax, the air cond. unit starting smoking up the cabin! More so than we had that night in the hangar during training!) So we took an hour delay to get the smoke cleared and the parts checked, and we lost every revenue pax, as they were all reticketed, so all I had was Nikki and 2 non-rev pilots! So Nikki and I just gabbed the entire long flight! I had not seen her since graduation day, so that was really a treat! This was my first time to MEM - I can't believe how they park the Saabs down there! Like they are cars at the mall! All the pax get escorted to the plane - I can see how people could end up in the wrong line and on the wrong plane - good thing the boarding passes get checked - but now I am sick of checking boarding passes all the time (whine whine whine). We hardly ever have to check them around here - we have quite a few outstations with jetways too. So I have worked every reserve day (but not many block hrs) for the last 7 that I have had, so I hope now this week I will go back to all that time off, and you guys that are getting bored can do the flying!

Message from Pam on Sat Oct 11 19:59:29 2003

For Sept I had 55.11 min, this month I have about 2 hrs which isn't right cause I did ARR and then was called in but once I got there they didn't need me. I'm suppose to be credited 90 minutes for showing up so I need to watch my paycheck to make sure I get paid for it. This is unbelievable, I don't mind it much but would like to be flying a little more. I talked to Shaun today and he said he wasn't flying that much either in the last 3 weeks. My parents flew to Knoxville this afternoon. My Mom called to tell me they got there ok and also said what a nice crew they had. They were suppose to be in FC but when they got there they were told that there were no seats available. The FA's on the flight discovered that there was a family flying NR from NW who were in FC so the FA's got on the agents about it and told them that my parents were Mesaba's and are not suppose to be bumped over NW's non-rev's. That was really nice of them to do that, my Mom said they were so nice and took care of them. She got their names and and want to send them a thank you note for doing that!

Message from Nadine on Sat Oct 11 16:57:45 2003

pam how many hrs u have so far this month?? last? read my last post

Message from Pam on Sat Oct 11 10:21:11 2003

If I don't start working soon my uniform will be outdated!!!!!! What about the rest of you?

Message from Nadine on Fri Oct 10 23:46:32 2003

i am up sick :( hey all what was every ones total hours last month? call crew voice and press 1 than 09 for the month i wonder what every ones avg is mine was 56 hrs for sept -this month is 30 so far -good nite all or morning whenever u read this :0

Message from Karen on Fri Oct 10 15:30:02 2003

I just got a trip, deadheading to MEM tonight and a 3 hour layover in CVG tomorrow (Sat) from 1200 to 1500! Nikki/Marlene.... will you guys be around?? My cell # is 763-443-6103. Hope to see you guys!

Message from Nadine on Fri Oct 10 15:16:15 2003

pam remember that picture i had at training? we were having probs but thet are fixed :) karen i am so glad we are up enough above 40!!!! i love my job oh i had to leave a trip early yesterday i have a bad cold and me being scared to call off was flying sick day 1 was ok but day 2 my ears wouldn't pop my cptn said my ear drums could rupture and MADE me call scdling and go home so i am off on a sick day today :( oh i chkd and we have 12.5 hrs of sick time and it dosen't effect our guarantee i was worried thats why i didn't want to call off but thank god for sick pay :) next month we HAVE to try to set something up i miss u allbe safe pray and hope 4 the best

Message from Karen on Fri Oct 10 11:00:07 2003

I forgot to tell you guys what I found in my mailbox when I got to work yesterday. A copy of a "Safety Dept Audit" performed on one of my flights - in other words: I had a ghost rider! Luckily I had all good marks, and my manager wrote a nice letter attached to it. Just like what we have always said here CYOA - glad I don't leave out parts of my announcements and everything, like I see so many others doing, because believe me this checklist was explicit... Check marks for every little thing, like the announcements (ex: "caution when opening overheads") and telling everyone to watch their head and step as they deplane! Even stuff about appearance, uniform, jewelry, hair. A good reminder for me to not get complacent, and I'll share the opportunity with you all as well. Whew!

Message from Nadine on Fri Oct 10 09:35:38 2003

Message from Pam on Fri Oct 10 09:05:28 2003

I too am feeling a bit better about all this, I have been pretty stressed out the last few days!!!I think that Mesaba is doing some sort of scare tactic since they knew about this a while ago. My husband the union guru says that in a way it's illegal to do that (the scare tactic) something about they are not suppose to tie in what is happening with the Avro's and the strike. He says that the union needs to go in and say we are settling forcing Mesaba to come up with a contract. I don't know what has been agreed upon so far but surely they have something. I'm glad to hear the Kim and Dora are transferring, I talked to Kim a couple of weeks ago and she had mentioned that they were talking about it, hope it works out for them, they have become good friends and were pretty excited about their plans. Nichole you are too funny......just buy one of them fancy "lengeray's" and take your husband with you when you go to "Paduca" or "Toledo" all those fancy towns we fly to!!! Ok all lets just hang in there and hope for the best......OH Shaun, where are you????? Nadine didn't know you had a sweetie....do tell, how did you meet him? I'm happy for you! Sure could use a trip right now, my husband is redoing our upstairs bathroom and everything is all tore up UGH! Word of advice from an old married woman, never try to redo a bathroom TOGETHER! Yesterday I wanted to take his nail gun and use it as a weapon!! LOL

Message from Karen on Fri Oct 10 08:11:42 2003

If you read my message below from a couple of days ago, you know I have a friend that was to start training on 10/27. Well she got a call yesterday that the class was cancelled. They said that due to the loss of the 5 avros (we are for sure losing 5 avros) they are faced with possibility of furloughing 40 FA's - BUT may not have to if the natural attrition rate would take care of it. I checked the seniority list and EVERYONE from our class would be safe, as we have more than 50 FA's below us. But it does not bode well for moving up in the seniority of course. I just want to get my 9 mos in to get into the union so that we would have recall rights if something were to happen! But yes, I am feeling a bit better than I did the day I heard the news. One of my pilot friends is really down about the news, but I think it's more because it makes it much harder for them to strike - not that he believes it is anything other than a scare tactic. He is working on the strike strategy planning and I imagine this has really shot a hole in those efforts. I also heard the pilot's union hotline message, and they stress that Mesaba always knew about this Oct 28 deadline for the Avro contract, but they went ahead and built a brand new GO and a brand new hangar, so are they really that bad at planning or what? Hang in there you guys - once this pilot's contract gets settled I think things will drastically improve.

Message from Nadine on Fri Oct 10 07:42:11 2003

hello all i saw kim last nite and her and dora transfered to mem!!! i am not really worried the crew i flew with yesterday said it was a scare tactic so we shouild be ok yes karen i heard of alot of fa's are leaving i am going to hang on and see what happens i love this job my boyfriend and i are moving in together he feels bad cuz i am so broke so i'll have some help so i'll stay and hope for the best :) nikki transfer here and move to mi :) so has any one heard from angie?

Message from Nicole on Thu Oct 9 20:14:04 2003

Hi everyone, sorry I haven't typed lately. I was very sorry to hear about Joseph, I know how excited he was to have this opportunity. Donita and I got lines this month. I was actually getting comfortable with that reserve schedule and was concentrating on my real estate again. I got a horrible line this month, I got 3 four day trips, if I didn't like my husband anymore this would be wonderful because of the per diem but I still kinda like him so I don't enjoy being away from home that often. We agreed that he would travel with me whenever he could. Everyone appears to be doing fine(yeah right) Donita and I just had our second evaluation, it wasn't that deep but she called me in for it upon arrival back in memphis after a trip. I don't know about you guys but when I finish a trip I just want to go home, I don't want to talk! I did the Newark trip last month and went to New York for the day with a couple of FA's who had been there before. I'm enjoying myself but it's not as thrilling as I thought it would be. I saw that movie "A view from the top", I felt like Mesaba was that airline she was working for in the beginning of the movie going to places like Paducah, Tupelo, Lafayette, etc. I believe Memphis is about the quickest place to get a regular line. I'm tired of hearing of all the things that may happen with Mesaba, these big companies never consider the little people when they make their corporate decisions. Nadine, I'm sorry we didn't make to the zoo, the next day when we planned to go crew scheduling called me at about 5:00 am for a 2 day. I hope everyone's flying fine and doing fine. Talk to everyone soon Nicole 901-502-4337

Message from Nikki on Thu Oct 9 14:39:42 2003

Man, this really sucks :( I am so mad and sad about this whole thing... Comair should have received my application today. I really do NOT want to go there, but it looks as if I might have to (being CVG based, and all). Dora, I feel like I haven't flown in FOREVER! I miss it so much!. I haven't even been called in for Ready reserve! My pilot boy Erik says "Don't look a gift horse in the mouth", but I am just so bored... Oh, PS- I'm watching Dr. Phil right now :) We should call him... Good luck, everyone, and hope to see you sometime in November!

Message from Karen on Thu Oct 9 12:11:47 2003

I'm in the MSP Crew Room right now, talking to one of my pilot friends, and after talking to him I really think this whole thing might be a negotiating scare tactic. Who knows for sure, but I feel a little bit better. He has pointed out a lot of reasons why it would make no business sense for NW to do this, and if you notice - the announcement was made my MESABA that this might happen. There always was a deadline of Oct 28, and now it has been extended, and that is the announcement. It would seem to be a convenient time for a scare - after all they don't have the CRJ threat anymore to get the pilots to agree to a lesser contract. Oh who knows! I do feel better though.

Message from Pam on Thu Oct 9 10:22:00 2003

Karen I too am at a crossings here. I just found out that the girl who replaced me at the hospital is not working out and they are planning on letting her go. I talked with my husband last night about it and am considering asking for it back. I DON'T WANT TO! I want to be a FA but I haven't been gone from my other job that long. If I do go back hopefully they will give me have my seniority back as well (thats probably a lot to ask though.) I don't want to jump the gun and quit after all the training we went through I just don't know what to do!!! Lets do call Dr.Phil.....LOL!!!!

Message from Karen on Thu Oct 9 08:40:29 2003

Pam I agree with you 200%!!! And not only can NW terminate the agreement for the Avros, but they can terminate it EARLY!??! If NW would allow Mesaba to pick up another customer, that would really help - although I suppose that is a long and involved process too! And what you said in your other post about those NW suits resigning from the MAIR board being the first sign of trouble - yes. That really bothered me at the time because it made no sense. "To concentrate on NW".... hmmmm.... now it all falls into place. "To get out before the screws were applied" would be more like it! So, regarding the senior FA's that might quit - any chance there would be enough of them to impact to the seniority list that we would be spared? Probably not I guess. We would need about 200 FA's to quit I think! What timing this is... yesterday (the day the bomb was dropped on us) I also got a phone call from a neighbor that was wondering if I would be interested in a computer job exactly like what I was looking for before I wanted to be a FA. She's creating a new position and thought of me first. BUT I WANT TO BE A FLIGHT ATTENDANT NOW!!! And it would pay a lot more than this of course, but it sounds like a HUGE job, and involves backing up a bunch of people when they go on vacation (translation: do 2 jobs while they are on vacation), and it's a huge responsibility. I want to turn it down (actually it hasn't formally been offered but she wanted to know if I was interested), but now this news from Mesaba - I don't know what to do!!! Dr. Phil, what should I do?!

Message from Pam on Thu Oct 9 07:59:08 2003

I know that NW will continue service to cities that we fly to it just stinks because they can push the buttons to stop our operations anytime they want. The contract with NW is unbelievable! Who in their right mind would agree to a contract that would limit their ability for growth and to hold on exclusively to the shirt tails of one company. Thats like going to a grocery store where they only carry one brand and if that company who supplies that store folds up then they are screwed! I think the reasons some of the senior FA will quit is because they will either have to relocate, work more hours or go back to flying the Saabs. Another thing that I feel might be causing this is that NW feels the business is turning around since 9/11. To increase their revenue they will bring back their DC9's to replace our Avro service and of course not have to pay Mesaba. NW is playing hardball right now and our CEO needs to grow some!!!!! It seems that everytime he posts a message about all this all he says is we need to still concentrate on safety! I get so annoyed with that when the company is being pulled apart and so many people's jobs are at stake! Mesaba should have settled the pilots contract a long time ago because with the possiblilty of a strike and this happening they are really setting this company up for potiental disaster.

Message from Karen on Wed Oct 8 20:03:13 2003

I just keep hoping there would be some way that NW could give Mesaba permission to find another customer in addition to continuing to fly the Saabs for NW. That's what really stinks. We can't get more flying from anyone else, but NW can just take away what we already have and force the company to shrink. Who agreed to that contract??? Pam, not sure if you are thinking that the routes we serve will be affected, but they won't be. If you read that article that I linked to below, the choice that NW is making is whether to replace the RJ's with CRJ's, or DC9's or to keep those routes with RJ's. The flights would still take place, but perhaps not Mesaba. I am so bummed out. It's been a sad day for sure. Do you guys think that if this were to happen that a lot of senior FA's would quit that prefer the RJ's - in other words, they would not want to "step down" to the Saab???

Message from Pam on Wed Oct 8 19:35:02 2003

Oh and another thing when Anderson pulled out of the MAIR board thats when I started getting worried, thats always a strong indication that something is brewing! I don't mean to sound so negative but all those business classes I took this is a typical example of a company who is in trouble! I truly hope that Mesaba is able to pull out of this but with NW holding all the cards it's going to be hard.

Message from Pam on Wed Oct 8 19:19:52 2003

Gezz you guys things are looking pretty bleak right now!!!! They had a little news blub this evening about NW pulling the plug on the AVRO's (maybe) I just don't get this! What the hey hey is NW thinking anyways. You would think that from this summer and all the flights that were overbooked that NW would not even consider doing this the market for the airlink service is booming so why would NW not want to try and get in on it's share of the market instead of screwing it up! I say NW is a poorly run company and it's sad. The only thing that I can think of is that they are playing with the pilots and this contract thing but don't think so. Gezz and I gave up a good job for this! I'm pretty upset right now cause I really liked this job!

Message from Shaun on Wed Oct 8 15:09:41 2003

Hey all, heard the bad news about NWA taking the avros. It does say "considering" so who knows. It could just be another ploy for the pilot negotiations. How low can you be though? If not well that means alot of our flying will be gone. I talked to the union rep in MEM and we figured seniority lists will be cut in half. CVG will end up closing because its an all jet base. Who knows with this industry though. I applied at jetblue and southwest last night so here's hoping. The morale is going to be horrible at work now. Kinda sad. Well all we can do is hope for the best i suppose. Take care all. Enjoy it while ya can!

Message from Nadine on Wed Oct 8 14:53:50 2003

hello all dora u r still alive :) hows it been i know karen that is bad news alot people have been talking about it i love flying!! :( i hope this dosen't effect us i heard that turn over for fa's is high so it shouldn't i am on the begining of a 3 day i'll be out of minni fri so karen look 4 me hey karen out of our class aren't you the only one left that is minn based??? there are more fa's under us:) i heard like 4 senior people are leaving i hope we are not on reserve for ever this money sure does suck!!! raise please hurry and come :) nov is 2 checks away and our uniforms will be paid off and we get our $2 raise :)

Message from Marleen on Wed Oct 8 11:43:48 2003

Time to start looking for another job? If NW sells Pinacle AND stops using the Avros...does that make any sense? Bet ya if it does happen, CVG will be the hardest hit the fastest. Keep your ears open on this news, kids!

Message from Karen on Wed Oct 8 07:50:34 2003

Oh my gosh you guys - did you see the headlines? This is NOT GOOD for Mesaba! READ THIS

Message from Dora on Tue Oct 7 22:57:13 2003

is anyone flying or is it just me???

Message from Nadine on Tue Oct 7 21:08:25 2003

howdy :) miss u all lets do something in nov i would like to see everyone but alot of our classmates are in there only lil worlds we should comat them all with this web add just in case they 4 got be safe

Message from Karen on Tue Oct 7 18:30:45 2003

Nice to hear from Shaun again! I heard that buzz about Pinnacle too... did you know that NWA had put Pinnacle up for sale a while ago? I heard that by giving them the CRJ's they were increasing the value of the company so that they could get a larger sale price for it. It could be sold off completely, or in pieces through stock, depending on if they get an offer for the whole thing. So you know those internet message boards where Nikki, Shaun, and I "met" before training? Well I have been corresponding with a lady on one of those boards - going back to when she started asking questions about Mesaba. I saw that her home town was were I am from and - long story short - turns out she graduated from the same high school I did, three years before me! And she was hoping to get hired by Mesaba, so I have been encouraging her for a couple months now. She found out about a week ago that she got selected for training to start on 10/27! Since we live so close to each other we decided to meet, so we had lunch today for OVER FOUR HOURS as she asked me a zillion questions! I brought my little scrapbook I made with all my pictures from training and graduation. She is an awesome lady and I have NO doubt that she will be an awesome FA. I am excited that there will be 9 new MSP trainees starting in her class! Not sure about DTW numbers, sorry. But Annette, my mgr, said it's possible that there will be another class starting in November. Also, speaking of my mgr... she came and found me yesterday while I was on ARR and I had my 2nd routine probationary meeting. Have you guys been having your meetings? Wow, it sort of feels like being in a job interview again!! It went really well, but it was a little nerve wracking. She audited my manual, my uniform, and quizzed me on some procedures and "what if" questions. She said that my next one will be in December and that I will be quizzed on emergency procedures at that time. Wow! Shaun, that is really a bummer about the ARR pay. It seems so unfair! Aside from the per diem, you are being paid the same to sit home, or to sit at the airport! I can understand it if you are under your minimum but not if you are over! Hey you guys, have you heard there are new "Summer" uniforms for next year?

Message from Shaun on Tue Oct 7 16:55:29 2003

Hey everyone....Sorry I havent been on the board lately. Went to Orlando this passed weekend. Had to get down to the warm weather. Had a good time and I am seriously thinking about relocating and just commuting to MEM from there. Anyways, Karen about the ARR issue. The way they figure our monthly gaurantee is by counting each day as 3.75 so the only different between ARR and reserve at home is the per diem. We supposedly get the 3.75 in the monthly gaurantee so it doesnt end up counting towards overtime. They are tricky and I can't find anything in the contract saying it counts towards overtime so thats a pointless battle. Also you are right about the pay in Oct. They take 75 multiply it by 12 then divide by our total checks. The per diem check is always the one closest to the 15th of the month so it will be our second (next) check of Oct. Also health premiums are going up dont know if you saw it on mymesaba or not. Bummer. Here is the latest from the rumor mill, continental express (express jet) just put a bid in to buy pinnacle. So who knows where that will take pinnacle or mesaba? Just thought I'd share. Where is Danita or Nicole from MEM? i hear they hold pretty nice lines. I need to find out if I can commute from orlando to MEM. 22 years of snow I am sick of it. Its cheap and its nice down there, why not?? :) Well I am off to battle the pile of mail i let keep building up. Funny how this job alters your lifestyle. OK CIAO and safe flying....

Message from Pam on Tue Oct 7 16:29:18 2003

Hi, Well I had an interesting day. Scheduling called me at 5:50 to do one trip down to LEX and DH back to DTW. They told me I had a 8 am show so I do the rush to get there (traffic is such bad once you leave at 6:30am.) Anyways I get there and go to the crew room where I run into a girl I met a few months ago. She asked me where I was going I told her and then she says "wow so are we, what flight number?" It's the same one so I call scheduling and they said "Oh we were just going to call you, are you already at the airport?" It's 8:10 of course I'm at the airport, she then says "I'm sorry we don't need you now, the other crew made it in on time." I guess they called in another crew cause the flight coming to DTW from Charlestown they thought was going to be delayed but they left on time and got into DTW 15 min early. I talked to our mgr to see if I get paid for coming in and she said yes, you get and 90 minutes pay for showing. So if this ever happens be sure you check your paycheck. I'm game for meeting in November.

Message from Karen on Mon Oct 6 17:37:45 2003

Do you guys want to plan a get together for November? If we plan it before we bid schedules maybe we could pull it off?? Interested? I don't mean a big vegas trip like we've been talking (and still should do sometime), but just a dinner or lunch like Pam is talking about? I suppose since the majority are in DTW I can't make a case for having it at MSP, unless you guys want to hit the Mall or something! What are your thoughts??

Message from Pam on Mon Oct 6 16:27:15 2003

Thanks for the info Karen. I had a problem with that in class when they were explaining all of it to us plus reading it in our union book is a bit confusing to me. I guess I'm still use to hospital hours where I would work long hours sometimes and never have been a part of a union before. Lets try and get together for dinner sometime soon. It would be nice to visit with everyone, think it would be possible to cordinated our schedules so that we can?

Message from Karen on Mon Oct 6 12:22:39 2003

Pam, our contract says that we cannot block more than 8:00 in one day (or have a duty day longer than 14 hours). I have had quite a few days at 7:58 or so, but this day was "pieced together" - it wasn't a real trip - I was going to leave one crew and join up with a different crew on a different pattern. CS didn't notice that my total for the day was 8:03. Actually Marlene was with me when I pulled the fax out of the machine, and I showed it to her and asked what she thought. I was doubting myself because the FA I flew with last said she never heard of the 8:00 hour rule. But Marlene and I were both pretty sure, and she even whipped out the contract while I called CS. They said they would figure out what to do and I should call back and they would probably take off one of the turns, but they ended up taking off BOTH and my 8:03 day went to 0:39 - all because of THREE MINUTES! I was sent home at 8:00 am, (still on reserve, but no call ever came) and I got to watch the Vikings (yeah!!!! 5 and 0!!) and the Twins (very sad day for the Twins). Anyway, I always look at those total hours/minutes, so I guess it's a good habit. After all, it is ultimately OUR responsibility to make sure we don't get assigned to an illegal shift.

Message from Pam on Mon Oct 6 11:58:51 2003

Hey all, Went up north for the weekend with some friends and had a blast! I sat ARR twice last week and flew on trip on Thursday with Shaun. Ran into Mary that day who was doing ARR. If any of you find a dress PLEASE let me know. I am about do just order one but hate to pay that price. Karen explain to me about crew scheduling you over your allotted time. Was these two seperate trips?

Message from Nadine on Mon Oct 6 08:43:33 2003

hello all seems like this site is dying down where is every one???? thanks karen any little bit extra counts hopefully i don't get called this week i need a break! take care

Message from Karen on Sun Oct 5 10:38:10 2003

Marleen, I really enjoyed having dinner with you last night - finally we could have time to really talk for a while! After not flying for 12 straight days I went in last night to go to RST (15 min flight), layover 11+ hours, and return early this morning. LOL! But the funny part is that they originally had scheduled me to do 2 more turns today, and when they faxed me the pairing it said block time for today would be 8:03, so I called CS and she says "whoops that slipped by" and they ended up taking me completely off both those turns and sent me home at 8:00 am! So watch your hours and know your contract! Nadine, I think I can answer your question about the 3 pay periods. If you notice we get 34.62 hours per check, so that is actually our yearly hours split out over 26 pay periods/year - as opposed to half of our hourly pay for the month, as that would be 37.50 hours each check. So they have already calculated that in there. Since our "extras" just come once a month, it will always be on the 2nd check of the month. Shaun, correct me if I'm wrong, but I think that's it. Hey everyone - I have the AM ARR tomorrow in MSP, so if you come through look for me! Call me on my cell 763-443-6103 if you would like to meet for lunch or something - oh that's right - I might actually have to fly somewhere! LOL See you all soon I hope!

Message from Nadine on Sat Oct 4 10:28:24 2003

hello all:) omg i was in mem again this week for 5 days!!!! every other week i am there they are short on reserves but why me???? i saw denita in mem how sad about joseph so thats 3 sadee, jo, and laura stick with it people! marleen we get perdiem on the 2nd chk of the month every month shaun we get 3 chks this month how do they split it up??? we should all try to go to dinner the det people for now at least karen if i comat u the pics do u have a scanner? then can u comat them back? okay does anyone need a skirt, blazer or pants sz 8?? let me know bye

Message from Karen on Fri Oct 3 16:06:28 2003

Nikki I've got you beat! I haven't flown for 12 days!!! I just heard on Crew Voice that I have an assignment tomorrow night - an overnight with 0120 block time!. Must be a STC turn. I actually like the time off, but I was relieved to hear on Crew Voice that I still have a job! I called Marleen and we are going to meet for dinner before my shift starts so I am excited about that (glad she posted that she would be here at that time!). I haven't seen any classmates in so long - after all I am the only MSP left. :-(

Message from Nikki on Fri Oct 3 15:14:48 2003

I AM SO BORED!! Anyone else not flying...Its been over a week, for me! (and my check was so small, today!) :( Oh well...Im getting the apartment sparkling clean! :) Nikki

Message from Marleen on Fri Oct 3 09:56:44 2003

How disappointing for Joseph! Joseph, if you read this, keep in touch! How about that answer on the 0:02 for ARR? I noticed it on my statement, too. What's the skinny? I'm getting ready to do a 2 day. I will be in MSP on Saturday the 4th from 1547 to 1913. Will any of you be around? I'll keep my phone on; 513-465-8866. Hope to see--ANYONE! Fly safe!

Message from Nikki on Thu Oct 2 16:05:34 2003

Thanks for the info about Joseph, Pam, but that is so sad! I wish he could still do both jobs :( I will have to get in touch with you soon, Joseph! I am also on reserve, and have not been used very much at all...I am getting so bored! But we just got a new couch yesterday, so I have been spending the day rearranging furniture :) If anyone is in the area, you should come and visit! Hope to be flying soon (Im sure we all so!) I get jealous just looking up into the sky, when planes go by ;)! Ph well...the holidays are coming soon...Did anyone ever hear what exactly happened to Laura? I wish she was still with us, as well...Any news of the strike? Well, talk to you all soon, and have fun out there! :) Nikki

Message from Karen on Wed Oct 1 14:31:10 2003

So nice to hear from all of you! I have not been flying much at all - how about you guys? Just finished 4 days of reserve without a call - day off today, then back on reserve tomorrow. I counted up that I flew only nine days in September! I haven't checked with Crew Voice how many hours - can't be too many, I know that! Shaun - whatever happened to your ARR question? Did you get it resolved?

Message from Pam on Wed Oct 1 12:38:14 2003

Hey all. Well I guess I'll drop the beans here. I was hoping that Joseph would post a note and tell you all what happened cause I felt it really wasn't my place but here goes cause I know you all are concerned for him...He had to quit. He told me in his e-mail that the other business him and his partner had wasn't doing so well since he took this job. His partner is a professional singer as many of you know and guess he couldn't handle proforming and running the bookings etc.... I just felt so bad for him cause we all know how bad he wanted to do this.

Message from Marleen on Wed Oct 1 09:37:36 2003

Angela, I think you owe us some stories! What kind of problems have you have with scheduling? Have you overnighted anywhere cool? Fill us in! Has anyone heard anything about Joseph? The last couple of entries left us hanging.

Message from Angela on Mon Sep 29 16:23:07 2003

Hey everyone!!! sorry it took so long for me to get oon here! I hope everyone is doing well. Be careful with scheduling, they try to trick you so much. gotta go everyone fly safe !!!! Bye

Message from Lisa on Mon Sep 29 12:34:06 2003

Hey all! I had my GDO's this weekend it was great! I talked to Angie on yesterday; She has been sitting on resevre in MSP for the past 3 days. Today, I'm back @ the DTW airport on PM ARR from 1230 til 2130. I'm looking foward to doing the same thing tomorrow if they don't find a trip for me!! Has anyone ever heard of Jeeper's? Well, I spent my entire Sunday there with my 4 year old son and 10 year old sister. Anyway this place is fun and amazing for kids but I think I enjoyed myself more than anybody else! It's like Chuckie Cheese's only better. Jeeper's has an indoor roller coaster that really shook me up(kids and adults may ride most ride's). Also, there are bumper cars, a train that I was to big to get on and so much more. I bought the $34.99 weekend package which included two wrist bands(ride all day), one large pizza, twenty tokens, three drinks, and one cotton candy. I had a blast! Next week we're going to the Chicago Industrial Science Center. In the meantime, I'll just keep on sitting ARR! BYE,BYE!

Message from Marleen on Mon Sep 29 12:02:47 2003

I agree; I love this message board! I'm very bad about getting on here, but I love reading your stories. For what it's worth, I read something, somewhere, about the dates we get our per diem checks. The next one should be 14 NOV, and the final 2003 one on 12 DEC. HOpe that helps you all plan. I, too, have been sitting here with no phone calls. Oh well, guess I'll read my books and play on the computer! Hope to see you soon!

Message from Nadine on Mon Sep 29 10:37:04 2003

hello all i finally saw mary!! she is doing good heather called me last nite she is doing good i told her to get on here i wonder where some of our other classmates are up to? yes karen thanks for this site you did good!:) hey all i finally got the rest of my pics devolped from class karen i'll have to get them to you can't wait til nov we get a raise and uniforms will be paid off!!!:) buh bye :)

Message from Pam on Mon Sep 29 07:44:28 2003

Hey Shaun I got those days off, thanks for your help! Did a high speed Saturday night and the FA I was with was a girl that lived 5 houses from me in the neighborhood I grew up in. She and I use to play together when we were little is this a small world or what!!!!

Message from Pam on Sat Sep 27 14:03:25 2003

Karen I too am glad that some of us have been staying in touch via this website and thanks to you we have been able to do so. Got a call from scheduling that they needed me in an hour. Just about every highway from here to the airport is under construction so told them that I'll be there asap but couldn't guarantee in a hour. They said they were trying to find someone close but would delay the flight if they had too. Guess the FA who was suppose to do the trip was having car trouble. I go throw the uniform on and was just pulling out of the driveway when they called me back and said the FA was able to make it to work. I haven't really had any problems with the schedulers most of them are so nice but was sorta glad they found someone else cause my daughter's homecoming is tonight and wanted to see her all dressed up. I'm also glad to hear that you all are not working as much either was feeling a bit paranoid again especially after what happened to SaDee. I mean it's nice to be working but I don't really mind this reserve stuff so far it hasn't been all that bad. I know the Holidays will be hard and not looking forward to being away from home during that time.

Message from Karen on Sat Sep 27 09:20:11 2003

Shaun, I was meaning to address your question about ARR. I interpret it the same way you do! I sat ARR in June and didn't get used, but in June I didn't meet the guarantee, so that wouldn't show us anything. Next time I sat ARR was September, and I did get used, but for less block time than 3.75, so it will be interesting to see what I get for that. I guess I won't know for another month? Did you ever find more out about that? I have not been flying much either, back on reserve starting today. I think I've worked about 5 days in the last 21, which is just fine in my book! We have some projects here at home, keeping me from getting bored, plus my son and his wife are staying with us for a few days as they are between apt and house they are buying and closing on this Tuesday, so it is fun to spend time with them! By the way... I know I've said it before... but I sure do appreciate being able to talk to you guys via this board. More so than I dreamed when I created it. Being as we don't work in an office where we see each other, or anyone for that matter, every day, it's really been nice to have you guys online here. We are a unique class in that we have stayed in contact. I like the fact that at our jobs we work with different people every day (no office politics) but then again you don't get to know many people really well because you might not see them again for months! But we have our little group online here, and I just wanted you to know how much I enjoy that. Thanks again :)

Message from Shaun on Sat Sep 27 08:41:08 2003

Yes I've talked to Mary, she is on a 3 day right now. Mary is always doing something, that girl can't sit still. Did a CHS highspeed last night, got to my room....got ready for bed and everything, here the FO got a smoking room. Well they were out of rooms, so guess who packed up all their stuff and swapped? I walked in the hallway with a t-shirt, my pants and no shoes...HAHAHAHA what a sight. Hey we were only there for what 4 hours, she couldnt handle the musty smell for that long? I was irritated. Anyways off now again for 3 days....Talk to you all later, fly safe.

Message from Pam on Fri Sep 26 11:15:50 2003

Hey all on reserve starting today with nothing scheduled so far. I have only done one trip in almost two weeks have the rest of you been working much? They didn't use me last weekend and called me for ARR for last Monday. I'm not complaining just getting a bit board. Nadine I'm looking for a dress so if any of you know where I can get one let me know, size 4 or 6 will take an 8 if I have to. Lets do this Vegas trip would be a great time. Shaun have you talked to Mary?

Message from Nadine on Fri Sep 26 10:55:27 2003

hello all i am on ready reserve i had a cvg turn and saw marlene she is doing good shaun what about mary??? where is she is every one except saddee and laura still with us? karen thanks for the # so did u have fun? i am sooo jealous nothing new happening so does every one like their oct schds? hey does any one wear size 8? this old fa wants to sell in bulk and has a blazer, pants and a skirt i cant use but i want the sweater and dress and shirts help!let me know miss u all have u seen classmates? i saw betsy in mem last week oh and danite saw lisa yesterday she is always on rr hotta go bye all

Message from Shaun on Fri Sep 26 10:05:08 2003

Hey Vegas sounds good. Lets all go when the pilots are on strike! Anyways what happened to Joseph? He isnt on the final line list for MEM? Hope everyone is doing good, I have a CHS highspeed tonight. Anyone else have it? I know it was open for two FA's....see ya

Message from Pam on Thu Sep 25 17:02:04 2003

Karen I officially nominate you as class pres., and a reunion in Vegas would be great!!! Maybe we could plan something in January or Feburary since the holidays are coming up fast (unless there is a strike) and then we might have plenty of time. Shaun are you having computer glitches again haven't heard from you. Been off for a few days had a quick trip Monday while babysitting the airport but other then that haven't worked since a week ago Tuesday. Back on reserve tomorrow so guess I'll be eating my words again! I'm liking the jet more and more over the SAAB guess the SAAB's get just as cold in the winter as they get hot in the summer.

Message from Karen on Thu Sep 25 16:23:00 2003

Nadine here is Rosa's number: 612-922-0694. Just got back from non-reving to Las Vegas. Took us 3 flights to get there, but we got back on our first attempt. We got lucky in blackjack, so actually came home "in the money", which is a very nice bonus! Can't count on that happening every time! Since I remember reading on this board that I was appointed class president or some such thing (LOL) I will suggest that when we have our reunion we consider Las Vegas. I think that would be fun! Think about it! Ealier this week I had a 2 day jet trip - that is my first real trip on the jet, not counting a high speed and a couple turns previously! So now I finally feel like I think I know what I'm doing on there! It's about time! I was fortunate to work with a very nice FA. See you all soon I hope.

Message from Nadine on Wed Sep 24 17:40:43 2003

hello all sorry but i gotta be quick it took so longg reading Sadee sorry!!! we'll miss u when we go to recurrent u have to come visit!! pam u r sooo lucky:) nothing fun ever happens at my overnights karen can u please get me rosa's # from the crewroom or stroll down on here i can't find it i am buying uniforms from her and lost her # well i gotta run luv you all stay strong shaun what about mary :)? buh bye

Message from Nikki on Wed Sep 24 12:41:05 2003

SaDee, I am SO sorry to hear the unfortunate news. That is really crappy :( I really hope (and feel that probably) they did it because they had to, like Marleen mentioned. It was probably an airport rule, and hopefully not Mesaba's. Anyways, it sucks all around, and I'm truly sorry. Please keep in touch! Talk to everyone soon :) Nikki

Message from Pam on Wed Sep 24 07:48:35 2003

I was looking at the schedules for next month and I didn't see Joseph does anyone know whats going on? Joseph you still with us?

Message from Pam on Wed Sep 24 07:35:38 2003

Hey Marleen how long are you going to be here? Give me a call 586-268-0596!

Message from Marleen on Wed Sep 24 06:13:17 2003

Hey all, I've been reserve in DTW for 4 days, then my mom came to visit, so I have not been here for a while. SaDee, I feel sick for you. I can't imagine what you did wrong unless it was some kind of "airport" security rule you broke, not a "company" rule. I'll keep you in my thoughts and prayers as you start you search for a better job. Best of luck!!

Message from Pam on Mon Sep 22 18:40:03 2003

Thanks Shaun didn't know it was nine months and should have known. Anyways SaDee please keep in touch and let us know how your doing. Take Care

Message from Shaun on Sun Sep 21 21:32:25 2003

SaDee, "I'll find a great new job and be glad that I got to be a FA at least for a brief while in my life. One dream came true, many more to go. :-)" I quoted you because I am glad to see you are thinking positive even after this all happened. You actually might have gotten out at a good time anyways. The company isnt doing so well and when the CEO is asked questions he just kinda BS's his way out of them. Who knows where Mesaba will be. I know Champion and Sun Country are both in MSP also. They may be hiring soon. Pam, the probation period is actually 9 months, not 90 days. What they have been taking out of our checks is the initial fee. They take it out in increments instead of one big deduction. Good Luck Sadee....I say get some unemployment :) You WILL be eligible for sure.

Message from Pam on Sun Sep 21 18:13:13 2003

SaDee I still just don't understand this. If the union can only "hold your hand" then why are they taking the union fee's our of paycheck before our 90 days? Is it 90 working days? Or is it 90 days from hire date? Either way I feel that they should not be taking money from us if they can't represent us. I just feel so bad for you. This is absolutley terrible and unfair for both you and the agent. There are mixed messages in the FA manual ( checked it out) and what happened to you. SaDee I wish all the best to you!

Message from SaDee on Sun Sep 21 12:23:39 2003

Oh my gosh, I forgot to tell you guys that the agent (who was the nicest women in the world) WAS terminated. I'm just sick about it because I know she didn't think she was doing anything wrong--she was just being helpful!!!!! Why would we do it in the first place if we knew were going to loose our jobs over it? duh! You guys will have to let me know if any memos/bulletins that come out about doors/security/airport badges/escorting into SIDA, because hopefully there will be some instruction for everyone to learn about this so it won't happen again. Tim the Union President said he didn't know anything about that early shuttle for agents only and he would have done the exact same thing that I did and he's been there for over 6 years! That made me feel good, at least, to hear that I wasn't an pain old idiot. I hope they train the shuttle drivers to check that everyone that gets on that freaking particular shuttle has a MAC badge!!!

Message from SaDee on Sun Sep 21 12:11:52 2003

You guys are the nicest!! Thanks for your support! It sure means a lot to me! This whole thing is so freaky to me. It does seem unfair and unjust. I didn't have any way to know that when I got on that shuttle it would drop me at a location at the airport where I wouldn't be able to get in with no where to EVEN WALK to in order to get in without a MAC badge. It's very frustrating to think about. I did call Tim (the Union President) right away actually when I got the call from my FA manager. Tim was great! And a really, really nice Union rep was with me when I had my meeting with my FA manager. Good thing because I completely broke down and it was nice to have someone there with me! Shaun's right though because we're on probation there's nothing they can do except hold your hand and be supportive and they really were for me. What's weird to me also is that when I worked my other position at Mesaba I had a MAC badge and had to escort other un-MAC-badged Mesaba employees that's why I didn't think I did anything wrong. And that's what the FA manual states too. (11.2.1) I'm still in shock. And I just want you guys to be careful about everything you do. I'll survive. I'll find a great new job and be glad that I got to be a FA at least for a brief while in my life. One dream came true, many more to go. :-)

Message from Shaun on Sun Sep 21 08:51:41 2003

Hey all.. I have an issue that I need to bring up to the union and crew scheduling. Tell me if I am wrong about this. My understanding with ARR (airport ready reserve) is that you are credited 3.75 hrs or what you actually fly, the greater of the two. Well according to the pay sheet they are only crediting 0002 for ARR. This is fine if you don't go over 75 for the month anyways. But, say you actually flew 80 hours for the month PLUS you had a ARR day, which is supposed to credit 3.75 hours. Then you should be paid for 83.75 hours. They are just counting it as any other Reserve day that you don't get called for. I hope I explained it well enough for you to understand. It only makes a difference if you end up going over 75 hours. But according to the contract the pay for ARR is 3.75 Check your pay sheets and see if you notice it. They are stiffing us out of 3.75 if you go over. I'll work on it and let you know the outcome ASAP. Just wanted to give you a heads up and make sure I was understanding it correctly.

Message from Pam on Sun Sep 21 08:08:36 2003

SaDee my husband who is in labor relations suggested that you file a grievance. Based on what you said this just doesn't make since, one of the reasons why we have a union is for situations like this and that is what they are there for. Don't go down without a fight you are such a good person plus you have been working for Mesaba for a long time. Please keep us posted on what happens.

Message from Karen on Sat Sep 20 18:07:26 2003

OH MY GOSH SADEE!!! I am sitting here in complete SHOCK! I have read and re-read your post and I just don't get it! I honestly don't get it! Why was that your fault? Terminated? No questions asked? I just can't believe they would terminate you like that! What about the shuttle driver that dropped you off in the wrong place? What about the agent that escorted you in, but apparently shouldn't have? (If I am understanding correctly that that's what happened). SaDee you are the most conscientious & hard working - I'm just SICK! This is just not right AT ALL!! Like Shaun said, since you were a previous Mesaba employee, maybe you have some rights. I sure hope so. Did you talk to Tim Evenson? He's the one that spoke to us over pizza - the union President. Maybe you still have his card, or I know I can dig mine out. Good Luck.

Message from Shaun on Sat Sep 20 16:32:31 2003

AWWW SaDee..... i don't even know what to say. I know that they are very strict on the use of SIDA badges. I don't know why they would terminate you for that though. That is aweful. They obviously used the probation period to their advantage. The union can't represent any FA until they are off probation. I don't understand this in your case though because you were a Mesaba employee and transferred to a new position. I would definately at least try to contact your union rep or the AFA directly and ask what can be done. Make sure you tell them you were hired in to the company before 5/19. Not sure if the resignation vs. termination will have any affect on whether the union can help you or not. I know the union has saved several people from being terminated. Just a couple things regarding termination....Make sure they pay you for any vacation you had accrued. Call me if you have any other questions 734-355-3312. I'm sorry SaDee and I hope everything will work out.

Message from Pam on Sat Sep 20 13:44:09 2003

SaDee this is so sad! Can you call a union rep and find out what you can do? I know they take these entry areas very serious especially here in Detroit, we have to be so careful coming and going to the crew room. Also the way things are going right now non of us will be employeed with Mesaba. Don't think it will come down to that but if they don't get that contract settled things could get really bad. I hope you stay in touch and good luck!!!

Message from SaDee on Sat Sep 20 11:13:26 2003

Dear Friends, I deeply regret to have to tell you that I'm out. A union person said I shouldn't really tell you guys what happened but I've decided to just in case I can spare you from making a mistake like I did. I was called at 4 am by CS to dh on a 6 am NW flight to MEM. I got to the GO at 5 am to take the shuttle to the airport. I thought I knew one person on the shuttle to be another FA. When we got to the airport the shuttle dropped us off at some weird door under the C concourse. I was thinking how weird is this, well, maybe the Tram is running now and this is the new drop off location, but I waited to get off until I saw the other FA get up. I walked with her and asked when did they start dropping us off here? She said that this was the early shuttle, and then she asked if I had a MAC badge and I said, no. That's when I found out that she's an agent now, not a FA. We were both confused about how I should get into work since you need a MAC badge to get in through that door. She determined that she could escort me so I thought that sounded reasonable so I didn't think of any other options. We when in and we're talking about how is a FA supposed to get in anyway. So I decided to talk to my FA manager about it when I got back to MSP. I had no idea that I shouldn't have gone in that door with the agent. But when I got to MEM I got a call from my FA manager who sent me home immediately and a few days later I was informed that I was terminated! Luckily, it turned out I was allowed to resign instead so I don't have “termination” on my record. I am completely devastated as you can imagine!! I had searched the FA manual for instruction that might relate to this situation and found that there is a place that says, “A person with SIDA access may allow a person with a Mesaba ID to access the SIDA or AOA for the purpose of performing duties.” (11.2.1) So, as I interpret that statement it means to me that what we did falls within the broadest interpretation of that procedural instruction. The agent was simply allowing me access to work in order to perform my duties. Unfortunately, I wasn't able to even explain anything but I did turn in a written statement explaining everything and that I truly didn't think I was doing any thing wrong by getting escorted in to get to work by the agent considering I was dropped off by this shuttle to a location that I had no other way to get into the airport from. Plus, you guys know me, I'm such a strong "go-by-the-book" and rule follower that I wouldn't dream of deliberately doing something wrong. That's what ironic about it! So anyway, just wanted to let you guys know and say so long. Keep up the good work, have fun, and be mindful of everything you do. Take care. Love, SaDee

Message from Lisa on Fri Sep 19 15:26:29 2003

Heollo everyone! Wow, U all have been doing some talking! Since I'm doing ready reserve right now, I decided to finally make time to chat with all of you. I had misplaced the Web Link information but I spoke with Nadine today and got the address. What a day for me. Crew Scheduling called me last night @ 8pm to say "we need u for ready reserve tomorrow For a 5:45am showtime." Ok with me; only to find out less than ten minutes later they don't need me anymore. Soooooooo, Guess who called me this morning @ 4:56am for a 6am show. I told Janis or whatever her name is that she was given misleading information. If at all possible I informed her that I would be in the crew room by 6:30am. She said she would call me back after she tried to get a swap. She called me back at 5:30am and told me that she couldn't find anyone and the rest of the crew would be waiting for me to get to the airport. OK!!!! Have it your way. NOT! Once I got on I-94 west, guess what, an accicent @ Michigan Ave. Traffic was backed up with at least a 20 minute delay. I called CS back and asked her to send the ready reserve (which I found out later was Shawn). She said ok and I finally arrived @ the airport @ 7am, picked up a round trip to AZO @ 9:50am. Got back at 1300, started reading these great stories after I grab some lunch and now It's finally time to go home!! What a day!! P.S. I have a running nose and a headache. Tomorrow I'm using a sick day if I don't feel better by 8pm.

Message from Karen on Thu Sep 18 09:31:53 2003

Joseph, good for you! I think I know what the high-step is, I just didn't know that was what it was called. My first experience with it was when through-pax needed it and we broke down in the first city and had to swap planes... that was a bit of a production, to say the least! Let us know if Tim McGraw calls you! Pam, wow that is really sad! How horrible. Nice though that you got a nice compliment from the NWA suits. Still trying to figure out the whole CRJ thing. One thing I did find out is that Mesaba got the RJ's when Pinnacle was negotiating with their pilots (ahaaa). Not too coincidental if you ask me. And remember that NWA still has OPTIONS on more CRJ's, just that these were the remaining ones on firm order. Lots of newspaper articles on the situation in the business section of our paper, and you can see them on mymesaba by clicking on "Mesaba and the Industry". It says Pinnacle is serving like 54% more pax than a year ago!

Message from Pam on Wed Sep 17 12:22:53 2003

Also forgot to mention, did you guys hear about the accident in ORF? One of the agents was killed while trying to tow a plane. It was so sad to hear what happened to her alot of corporate NW people came in Saturday morning to help with replacing the workers there who were given time off because of this. Anyways our flight from ORF to MSP we had four managers coming back, one was a Vice Pres of Public Relations and Safety. She was very nice and gave us such a nice compliment. She said she wished that all the FA were as good as we were and was going to write a nice letter to our company. She talked to us for a long time about this job and how serious accidents can happen by not paying attention to our surroundings. There were alot of people coming to help the family and employees who worked with her. She also mentioned that Contential airlines (sp?) sent breakfast, lunch and dinner for two days for all the employees. It was just nice to hear about all these people coming together to help

Message from Pam on Wed Sep 17 09:46:38 2003

anyways just heard about the CRJ's how disappointing!! I don't understand our management's thinking. Why would any company especially the airline industry let the opportunity to grow and expand their fleet slip through their fingers? Mesaba should have known about the CRJ's on the market a long time ago! So why would they not have wanted to solve these contract issues and be in a position when the opportunity arrived to compete with Pennicle for these planes?

Message from Pam on Wed Sep 17 09:36:28 2003

Hey all....... Got back from one of the best 4 day trips I have had so far!!! I deadheaded to MEM then picked up the AVRO to ORF for a 20 hr layover. The FA I was with was so nice, she had friends from there so they picked us up the next morning and we spent the day at VA, Beach watching the surfers enjoying the beginnings of Isabella. On the way back to the hotel we went to the Naval Base her friend happens to be in the Army Reserve so we were able to tour around all the ships, they are huge!!!!! Most of them were preparing to go out to sea cause of the storm. cont.......

Message from Joseph on Tue Sep 16 18:45:57 2003

Hey Guys! Had my first experience yesterday with the High step- Shaun , am I saying that right. Do you guys know what that is. I did not. Anyway,it was used for Tim McGraw's grandmother. She let me know who she was. She had horrible experiences with Northwest until she met me.........so she said. She took my name and address and wants Tim to call me to thank me on how sweet i was to her. She said she thought I was the best FA . she made a point to tell the captain and wants to write in to Northwest about me. Isn't that great. I thought so........so, always be aware that a high step could be just a second away from you getting one. Miss you guys Joseph

Message from Shaun on Mon Sep 15 16:59:42 2003

One more point I'd like to make... Sure this allocation is because our costs are too high compared to Pinnacle and maybe the pilots shouldnt be asking for raises. But then why does our CEO get huge bonuses? What exactly does he do to deserve those first of all. Second, the reason the pilots are so pissed is because Mesaba has continued to make promises to them that they havent lived up to. Using 9/11 as an excuse. Thats pretty sad. That day was horrible, so many lost their lives. All our company cares about is to use it as a financial excuse. PLEASE Oh and on that note, did they post anything on our company site remembering those who died? NO cuz they have their head shoved....ok I'll calm down now...no more posts today for me...

Message from Shaun on Mon Sep 15 16:55:18 2003

Forgot to mention this....OF COURSE we are going to have excellent factors. (completion, on-time etc...) WE hardly have any flights! Pinnacle will now total 129 CRJS, we have ohh 36 AVROS and by now maybe 50 saabs? How hard is on-time performance gonna be? What kind of idiot is Spandex....i mean Spanjers...LOL CIAO

Message from Shaun on Mon Sep 15 16:52:36 2003

Yes but NW can help pinnacle work it out. They own Pinnacle. Their costs are low so they pretty much have 100% say in what Pinnacle does. NW is smart for doing this. Pinnacle is much cheaper to run than we are. Mesaba screwed themselves...negotiating for 2 years? They can't make the excuse that 9/11 wreaked havoc cuz we have always had a profit. What BS...so now NO CRJS, NO contract (strike), CSA's fighting for a union, lost our board members at NWA. Seems like XJ has quite an unmanageable situation here. I'll be watching pinnacles website for employment...like a hawk. This is crazy, I wonder what Spanjers is gonna do. I think he'll resign or be booted. This company has gone downhill soon after the CEO before Foley left....forgot his name. So glad that our high performances mean so much when we are losing planes and have no plans in our future for more planes. Someone better make an announcment regarding the CRJ allocation. I would have liked to witness the days events at headquarters in MSP. Back to work tomorrow. Around the midwest in a bad mood????

Message from Karen on Mon Sep 15 16:15:44 2003

Oh man... I see that Shaun. I really am shocked. I thought for sure NW wanted Pinnacle and Mesaba to get into a bidding war over those. Hmmm..... Wonder if this has anything to do with why those two guys resigned from the Mesaba Holdings (now known as MAIR) board of directors a week or two ago. Well all I can say is it's the company's fault that this strike wasn't settled long ago. Shaun didn't you say once that Pinnacle is having trouble keeping up as it is?

Message from Shaun on Mon Sep 15 15:13:32 2003

So glad to see the last of the CRJ's NW had ordered went to pinnacle...how lovely. Now all we need is that strike and we're done, literally. WHEW, is pinnacle hiring???

Message from Nadine on Mon Sep 15 12:04:06 2003

hello all :) i'm on ready reserve a 530 am show :( i survived my 5 days reserve in mem this isn't so bad i guess just heard the 34 planes went to pinnacle the pilots just printed it out!!! :( i love being an fa! i hope they wrk it out i am soooo sleepy and bored shaun hows mary? miss u all take care

Message from Karen on Sun Sep 14 17:59:53 2003

Just got back from a 3 day trip - we were in and out of DTW a lot yesterday, but never long enough time on the ground to see anyone! Today we were flying from MSP to STC (St Cloud) and I am always thinking to myself during that flight that it probably goes right over my house, about halfway. It's a 15 minute flight, kind of like DTW to TOL. Anyway, we just get up and then start our descent, I did my compliance check and since the plane was so empty, and no one was watching, I went to the back row and took a peak out the window. We were right over my house! It was so weird!! We were fairly low too. I know it doesn't sound that amazing, but it was so weird that right then at that moment we would be right over our neighborhood. So if you do the MSP-STC turn, wave out the left side of the plane about 8 minutes into the flight! LOL Hope to see you guys around the crew room sometime soon!!

Message from Nikki on Sun Sep 14 17:57:55 2003

Hey everyone :) How's it going? I am doing well...Joseph, so sorry I missed you. I actually finally got a new cell phone, that actually now works outside of Cincy! YAY! The new number is (513) 290-0928. I will be in Minny tomorow morning, so I will look out for all of you :) I'll write more in a minute, k...Go Bengals!! WooHoo!! :) Nikki

Message from Marleen on Sat Sep 13 18:08:26 2003

cont... I haven't been anywhere to run into anybody, but it is great to hear about all of your adventures. Pam, aren't we supposed to call somebody when we have issues with disables people, CRO or something? Did you guys try that? What a tough spot. If you guys come thru Cincy w/a long layover, give me a buzz. I'm probably sitting around doing nothing! Hope to run into "anyone" soon! Safe flying!!

Message from Marleen on Sat Sep 13 18:05:02 2003

Hey guys, sorry I've been in my own little world here lately. My cell phone, for future ref, is 513-465-8866. We had some really bad rain last week and our basement flooded. Only 2-3 inches in two areas, but it ruined alot of boxes. Most contents are ok. Then our dogs toes have been bleeding, so we took her to the vet to find out she has some kind of infection and the bleeding is from abcists (?) on her toes. Blah, blah... but on a good note, I have 3 days off coming up and our friends from MEM are coming out to see us! It will be fun to have some company and show off Cincy a little. My Mom is coming to visit the week after that, and we are going to visit my sister who had her twins a few months ago. I only flew about 45 hours for AUG. Kind of bored sitting around the house. I've only done three trips so far this month, too. But, I have my books and housework to pass the time. Mary, good for you on the Costa Rica trips!! next...

Message from Pam on Fri Sep 12 10:51:46 2003

Joseph Nikki's cell number is 513-264-7796 don't know Marlene's but hopefully you can catch Nikki.......take care!

Message from Joseph on Fri Sep 12 09:09:30 2003

Does anyone have Nikki's or Marleen's telphone number? I am going to CVG in a little while with a three hour layover. I would like to call them for lunch or something. Let me know. If it is after 2:00 today, it would not help. Thanks guys!

Message from Pam on Thu Sep 11 15:31:18 2003

Your absolutely right Karen and our pilots need to really stand together on this. These people deserve better pay and benefits then they are currently getting.

Message from Karen on Thu Sep 11 14:37:47 2003

Thanks for your input on the strike issues Shaun. I have been talking to the pilots about this "over dinner" testing the water to see where they all stand. They are SO UNITED and DETERMINED and I for one support them completely. I don't think they are asking for too much. I think the main thing that makes them mad is the huge pay increases that Foley keeps getting. The pilots are not only ready to fight (to strike) but they are more than willing to see the company go down if that's what it takes. In other words they are willing to lose their jobs over it. I know we don't want to hear that, but I don't stress about stuff like that till it happens. I'm all for them, and somehow we will have jobs (somewhere!). I think that that message on the XJ web site about "we haven't been asked to bid" and "now we will rethink the future of the company to not include CRJ's in the near future" is just a ploy against the pilots! They say it's bad timing. Whose fault is that!? They should have settled long ago!! I'm sure NW wants us bidding against Pinnacle, so the price would be lower, and as Shaun said, they don't want all their eggs in one basket. That's what happened to Delta when Comair went on strike. They didn't have another regional and they are still suffering financially from it, several years later. This will be interesting to see what the next 30 to 60 days bring.

Message from Pam on Thu Sep 11 11:49:50 2003

I have tried not to let a lot of the negative talk effect me, I really like this job but am very concerned about this company right now. Yes those pilots definately need an increase in pay there is no doubt about it but if they do go on strike, it could mean Mesaba might never recover.

Message from Pam on Thu Sep 11 11:45:05 2003

Thanks Shaun for the insite. My husband doesn't think they will strike (he's a labor contract geek) anyways he thinks that Mesaba/ALPA will come through at the 11th hour. The concern here is that Northwest is our "big daddy" which from what I have seen and heard the last 3 months, are doing a poor job of it. There are far to many employees who are so upset with the sheer fact that they haven't come through with their promises. One guy I was talking to at the ticket counter said when NW employees conceeded with a wage deduction a few years ago promising that if the employees did this the company will do ok and as he said "what did they accomplish?" "nothing has changed except our pay wages!" And yes your right Shaun about Pinnacle their pilots are non to concerned about their pay and Pinnacle/NW knows this.....cont.....

Message from Shaun on Thu Sep 11 11:03:23 2003

Hey guys, YUP still alive. Ok as far as the XJ pilot contract goes...here is some info from ALPA's (their union) website... The pilots have been in contract talks with Mesaba Airlines management for over two years and have worked with a federal mediator for the past year. The pilots’ union – the Air Line Pilots Association, International (ALPA) – has filed a federal lawsuit against Mesaba Airlines alleging management has used bad-faith bargaining tactics during the protracted talks. Not surprisingly, little progress has been made towards an agreement on the new contract, which was due to be amended in June 2002. "We are prepared and ready to use every legal means necessary to get a contract that we have earned. If that means going on strike, unfortunate as that is, we may have to go down that road," stated Captain Michael Dockman, a Mesaba Airlines pilot ALPA recently requested that the National Mediation Board make a proffer of arbitration. If either party declines arbitration, the parties are released into a 30-day cooling-off period, after which the pilots would be free to strike. As of right now neither party has proffered for abritration. If this doesnt happen then they go into a 30 day cooling off period....Which is pretty much the warning that they will indeed strike... My opinion? Well it may seem like they are asking for too much and maybe risking this company's future by striking. I can see where they are coming from though. The industry is changing. Before 9/11/01 this was just a stepping stone for pilots. They were here to rack up flight ours and upgrade to captain then be off to a major where they can make a career out of it etc. Well since the regionals are prevailing and there are so many lay-offs, this means that pilots will be forced to make a carrer at regional carriers. Also since regionals are taking much more flying from the mainline routes this means more profitability for them. The last time XJ published the "pie chart" of expenses the payroll company wide was a measely 3%. We all know that payroll should be more than 3% of gross profits. That is ridiculously low! So yes they need more pay. Now since NW has two regionals to "play" with...the more reasonable one as far as costs go is pinnacle. The pay there is dirt cheap. They pay MUCH less than mesaba. The pilots however are mostly from other countries and have visa's to work here. They have no problem working for peanuts because they are just here to build flight hours then go back to their country and make more at mainline. The FA's? who knows why they work for so much less? There has been talk that pinnacle will eventually have a "feed through" process that will allow pinnacle FA's to jump right on with mainline....keeping seniority and payscales etc at NWA. That could be the bait they are using there. Anyways Mesaba has promised its pilots when they took pay concessions back in 1997 that this company will grow excessively and it will pay off for them to stick around. Why make promises you can't keep? So I think with pilots knowing they arent going to mainline anytime soon and the fact that Mesaba has a history of making promises it can't keep then the pilots have enough frustration to strike. As far as this affecting the company's future? Not sure but, I am almost positive that NW will do anything they can to keep us around. Why "put all their eggs in one basket"? Its safe for them to have TWO regionals to back them up. So time will tell. I also know that pinnacle is having a hard time handling all of their flying, they have been getting 2 jets a month now for sometime. They just dont have the man-power to handle it. I think the are using the CRJ's as a way to scare the XJ pilots. I don't think they will give in. If Mesaba was smart they would settle soon. Not like they can't afford it. So I guess time will tell. Also not sure if anyone has heard this but.... the CSA's have also been working on getting a union started. Talk about timing here. Same time as the pilots? This has been kept hush from management. They dont want management to know about it because this company has a history of doing massive hiring when they here CSA's are working on a union. The newbies won't vote for the union because they dont know a thing about the job and all they can think about is the dues. So with that, the CSA's have been posting "birthday party signs" which translates to union meetings. I hope they all agree to get a union. The pay is also horrible on the ramp. Start at 8 something and top out at 13 in 12 years?? Noway, the workload for them is tremendous because they run them so short. Thats a whole other topic. It looks like Mesaba needs to make some major decisions here before the company falls apart. Off the topic...I havent done any flying with Murray yet but hope to do some soon. Mesaba has been using me like crazy. I am now off until the 16th which is nice. My b-day is the 14th! WOOHOO! :) Well hang in there everyone. Just keep updated on the pilot contract status. They post news releases on [ www.alpa.org ] Check the site out. View from the top came out to rent. Just watched it. Cute movie. Well safe flying all...CIAO

Message from Pam on Thu Sep 11 08:58:12 2003

Interesting pictures Karen!!! I just read on the Mesaba website that as of this point Mesaba hasn't been asked to bid for the CRJ's. I know that part of the reason is the contract situation we are currently going through but with Anderson stepping down from the Mesaba board and the pilot contract issues, things may get a bit interesting with the company. What do you guys think about this?

Message from Karen on Thu Sep 11 08:26:43 2003

Check out these pictures of a nosegear-up landing at JFK on 9/2/03. CLICK HERE

Message from Karen on Wed Sep 10 22:37:58 2003

Hey you guys, according to today's Mpls StarTribune, Richard Anderson, CEO of NW Airlines spoke to a group of Business people yesterday and announced that the 34 CRJ's that have not yet been allocated, will be allocated in the next 30-60 days!!! If you haven't been following this issue, these are the planes that Mesaba and Pinnacle will bid against each other for. Most people think that we will get some CRJ's because without them Mesaba will be a shrinking airline, with the Saab's being returned at the end of their leases. But no one is really expecting the CRJ decision that soon, as they seem to feel that the pilots contract would need to be settled first, and that seems like it's a way off too. So who really knows... but I thought it was interesting that Anderson is claiming that it is 30-60 days away. If we get those planes there will be a LOT of new FA's hired!! Shaun, this board really needs you! Where have you been??? Flying 24/7?? Adding this part after reading the article on the XJ web site - with regard to the CRJ's: The company is saying "looks like we won't be getting any CRJ's because our cost structure is still uncertain and we are not ready to bid yet". Don't you think that's just a bargaining ploy to pressure the pilots into settling? I still think CRJ's are coming somehow. Maybe I'm wrong. What do you guys think?

Message from Pam on Wed Sep 10 10:49:42 2003

Hey all. Glad you were able to hook up with someone Nadine if you see Nichole tell her I ran into her OE instructor. Just got back from my two day trip it was worth 14+ hours but it was a hard trip!! The worst trip was the SBN turn the flight coming back to DTW was oversold plus our crew was doing an observation flight so they had a jumpseater. The agent standing by the luggage rack let pax's on with rollers after the third one started to board I finally said something to him. Then I had a man with a disability who was in denial sitting in row 6 who refused to move said he could perform the duties listed on the card. I tried to explain the reason why we needed to relocate him but he still refused to leave. Finally told him that if he didn't move we would have to delay this flight in order to get his bags off this plane. At that point the other pax's turned around and started glaring at him and he moved. THEN during the flight he wanted the phone number to Northwest he was going to report me. I told him that I would be happy to give him the number. I gave him the numbers along with the emergency placard to read and that if he had any further questions the CA and I would be happy to answer them. I don't know if he will report it but I did write up a incident report and talked to my supervisor. She said she was going to notify SBN because they should have never seated him in that row in the first place. NO KIDDING! So between that and other little stuff like the man sitting is 1A who has been eating garlic all his life (he looked about 60) the lav not being changed AGAIN and waiting for a Jetway agent AGAIN it was an interesting two days..............PLUS......I got a speeding ticket on my way home from dropping off tickets at my Mom's! I haven't had a speeding ticket since I was 16!!! I was going F I V E over! Going to take a nap now happy flying everyone!

Message from Nadine on Wed Sep 10 09:11:28 2003

hello all wow thanks no new news to read mary and shaun where have u been u used to be the regular writers :) lol i saw danita today she is doing good i talked to nicole last nite hopefully we are getting together today fly safe all buh bye!!! :0

Message from Nadine on Tue Sep 9 16:00:28 2003

hello all get this i dead headed to mem mon morn to sit here till 830 fri nite!!!!! why me this is crazy i am soooooo bored hey mem people call me 313-779-4631 i'd appreciate some company reunion sounds fun! hey in nov raises! and our uniforms will be paid off! yeah more money i am on the hotels personal com i begged to use it i am trying to get a job here i am here often enough the mng is actually considering it : bye 4 now

Message from Karen on Tue Sep 9 13:35:18 2003

Well I actually had to fly during my ready reserve shift yesterday. They deadheaded me to EAU where I sat for 3 hours, then picked up the flight from EAU to RHI (then EAU-MSP). There were through pax on board, so how weird was that doing a pre-flight with pax there! Checking under row 11 with a skirt on, AND an audience :) The pilots were super nice, funny guys, wouldn't have minded finishing the trip with them, as they were going on to ABR-ATY afterwards and flying all day today... but since I was timing out after having been at the airport since 6:00 am I was done (which was ok too). Then at MSP crew room, ran into SaDee as she was taking over for me. Fun to talk to her again! SaDee, did you have fun with those guys?? They were a hoot- the CA borrowed my book that Shaun recommended (Around the World in a Bad Mood) and read some of it during the flight. He loved it! So now I'm sitting home here, my last day of reserve, and nothing so far. Got lots of errands accomplished today, so I am happy for the day off. Yes Pam, I agree we need a 6 mos reunion!! Now if we could just figure out how to pull it off.

Message from Pam on Sun Sep 7 15:41:04 2003

Well gotta a two dayer coming up in the morning...sorry Karen won't be coming through MSP this time. Seems like that last few trips I've had have been MSP rounds wish we were would be nice having lunch. My husband in going to check about getting the day off so will let you know when I get back Tuesday I will e-mail you. Good you hear from you Joseph so glad you are holding a line especially with you commuting like that and that things are going good. Hey Shaun where art thou? You must be really busy let us know how the new job is going. Happy flying all ...... I really miss you guys wish we could have a 6 mo reunion or something would love to see everyone together.

Message from Karen on Sun Sep 7 12:23:17 2003

According to Crew Voice I will be sitting Ready Reserve tomorrow at MSP, so I hope I see some of you guys if you are around! Maybe it will be over lunch or something and we can go grab a bite together. My cell # is 763-443-6103 - if you don't see me in there. Of course I guess there always is a chance that I might have to fly somewhere! I tend to forget about that possibility! Shaun, I can see that you can't post as often on here now that you are holding down two jobs! :-( Joseph, that is so cool that you are holding a line now, especially since you are a commuter. That must be so nice for you! I see a lot of open time for MEM - I suppose that means that some of us will be coming down that way!

Message from Joseph on Fri Sep 5 09:50:19 2003

Hi everyone. Sorry its been a while since I have chatted with everyone but you know being off reserve and commuting is so hard HA! just teasing! No, its really working out well. It really feels good to know what is going on - especially because of my commute. I hope all is well with everyone. Nothing really happening on my planes - very smooth flying. Doing the newark trip a couple of times this month. Getting ready to go now on a trip. Just thinking about all you guys. Nikki/Marleen- I have the CVG trip one time this month with 3 hour layover - wanna go grab lunch? Let me know. 417-230-3242.

Message from Nadine on Fri Sep 5 09:13:44 2003

hello all :0 shaun i read it when i first started anther good one is plane insanity by ellioti forgot his last name lol omg last month i wrkd 27 hrs he 1st 3 wks then i got a 4 day worth 30hrs!!!! they got me in the end and they used me alot since the 1st of the month so pam how far away are you from a line now? i can't wait til nov for our raise!!! mary i wanna go!!!!!! miaa you all happy flying!!!

Message from Karen on Thu Sep 4 18:42:50 2003

Pam, was that club "Hoops" by any chance? Went there too! It's quite the hangout for the crews. It was funny, I thought it was so late, as it was almost midnight (LOL) and I go "well, I suppose" - as you know that means, "time to go back", and the captain smiled and said he would walk me back to the hotel, but that he was going to stay for a while more! I guess I AM old! MSP has always gone to CMX, but we used to continue on to MQT, and that is what has changed. Crews here are so happy, they hated that CMX-MQT high speed. I never had it luckily.

Message from Pam on Thu Sep 4 15:30:14 2003

Yes we thought about going to Bennigan's when we got there but the guys decided since the bars were open to 4 A.M!!! that we could go have a few drinks (5pm show the next day) So we opted to do that and ended up at some club around the corner from the hotel and played darts till the wee hours of the morning!! I haven't been up that late in a long time (am gettin old!!) but I did have a great time with my crew they were so nice. Also forgot to mention that since MSP is now going to Houghton/Hancock if you do have a long layover go to the Copper Mining Museum it's just down the road from the motel. Theres a pretty nice gift shop in one of the old buildings and you can take a tour down one of the mine shafts. It's about a 2 hour tour we didn't have time to go cause we stopped there on our way back from breakfast. We found this little-hole-in-the-wall Mom and Pop resturant (that is another story ... finding this place) that had the best breakfasts and CHEAP! This was the first trip I have had in a long time with the long layovers and was a welcome treat!

Message from Karen on Thu Sep 4 15:01:51 2003

Pam - I miss those long layovers! The last 3 trips I've been on we have actually had to WORK all day! What's up with that!? Just time enough for dinner one night of each trip I think, all days were 12 or 13 duty hours. People complain about the long layovers, but I'm ready for some! Glad you liked Peoria! I have been there 4 times already, I believe - did you have that 5:00 report time the next day? Last time I was there it was 100 degrees (!! I'm not exagerating!) so we did not walk down to the river - but I have every other time I was there. There is a Bennigan's right in the hotel that is excellent too, and you can get a coupon for free beverages when you check in! How many hours did you guys end up with for August? I had 82 credit hours - is that a lot for reserve? I thought people talk like you are lucky to make your guarantee while on reserve? By the way, if you overnight in Sioux City, watch out for the old lady shuttle driver! She's about 80 I think - in the words of our captain "she almost killed us twice" --- unbelievable - first while on the freeway she didn't yield when she should have, we almost got hit, and I think behind us someone did, because of our van. Then she missed the exit, so she did a U turn in one of those "no U turns" in the median of the freeway. She got honked at and said "I had my signal on!" Don't get in the van with her! :)

Message from Pam on Thu Sep 4 10:42:59 2003

Hi Everyone! Just got back from a 4 dayer what fun! Had a great crew with afternoon, evening shows so three days the earlist show was 2:30. Had a 20 hour layover in PIA nice hotel downtown about 4 blocks from the riverfront. There is a Joe's Crabshack with a deck overlooking the river and a couple of other resturants. The hotel has a huge indoor pool with a hot tub and workout room. We were the last direct flight to Houghton/Hancock from DTW so there were newspaper people out there interviewing some of the pax's. Guess they are non to happy about having to drive down to Marquette to get a flight to DTW especially in the winter. Karen while you were in the crew room in DTW I was in the crew room in MSP looking for classmates. We were in and out of MSP often on Tuesday and deadheaded home from there last night Dora was on the same flight. Nikki I was talking to a FA who has been with the company for 8 years and she said that they have been talking about closing Cinci ever since she started. She doesn't think they will but yes I have heard a lot of talk about it. Marleen thanks for the pictures! Looks like Mary is going to be an expert in Salsa dancing with her trips to Costa Rica.

Message from Karen on Wed Sep 3 15:00:02 2003

I am home now from a 4 day trip, and the most exciting thing happened today! On our flight from GFK to DVL we had NO PAX so I got to sit up in the jumpseat in the Flight Deck!!!! It was sooooo coooooool!!!! I just wish it had been a longer flight! I had the headset on and everything, talking to the pilots through the mike. It was so awesome, I hope you guys have a chance to experience that sometime!

Message from Mary on Wed Sep 3 12:34:14 2003

Non-reving is really easy now because the travel is down in the fall. Continental is really helpful. I am going again tomorrow until Thurs. I did some trip trades and scheduling pulled through. I have a high speed tonight and Friday off. They can't use me anymore after my CDO so I will be hopping on the next jet out of here. Adios, Amigos.

Message from SaDee on Wed Sep 3 09:23:24 2003

MARY!! That's so cool that you went to Costa Rica and are going again!! Tell us more!!

Message from Karen on Tue Sep 2 16:42:16 2003

So Mary, I'm so impressed with your non-revving! Was there any problem at all? I might be trying my first "non-Mesaba" non-rev in a couple weeks. Hoping for the best - it's so nerve wracking worrying about getting back! I am in the DTW crew room right now, hoping to see classmates - I did run into Betsy before my last turn and that was neat because it was the first time I've seen her since graduation. She is so sweet. TTFN

Message from Mary on Mon Sep 1 22:41:58 2003

I made it back from Costa Rica... going again on Friday. I love my latins!!!

Message from SaDee on Mon Sep 1 10:31:57 2003

I know what you're saying Nikki and it's so true that we have to use the best judgement according to the circumstances at the time. That's why it was good that I talked to the FA Mgr. Because I will think: What would she do? I talked to our other FA Mgr when the Saab carry-on policy came out and she also reassured me that we don't need to get in a struggle with the pax about their carry-ons just count them if they don't want to give them up. It makes for a more relaxed atmosphere. I like to have the pax feel happy and content. Yesterday I had a GREAT day with an FA named Santo to White Plains. He was like-minded with me to go above and beyond with the pax to make them feel happy. We treated everyone like first class pax. I was in the FWD and it wasn't at all full so we moved up all non-revs and some frequent-miles pax (gold/platinum types) they were all so gratefully and happy. I'm back out to HPN today! I like the FWD to keep busy! byee, Thanks for all your guys input! It's great to able to come on here and talk to y'all!!

Message from Nikki on Sun Aug 31 00:11:44 2003

CONTINUED: am saying is, like they always told us in training, just use your common sense (and we all have tons of it, obviously!) Like I said, I hope I didn't offend (Shaun, you are so much more eloquent than I!!)! I am getting quite nervous, because I have heard some quite believeable rumors that they are going to close the Cincy base, and that would be horrible! Bur everyday, it seems like it is going to happen more and more :( Has anyone else heard anything? I can't even bear to think about it...I don't want to go to Comair!!! They're snots! LOL!(Marleen and I ride the bus with them...we know!) Anyways, there is a new guy that I like...will tell more later, as it progresses! Mary, we need an update about the gate boy! Talk to (and hopefully SEE!) you all soon! luv, Nikki :)

Message from Nikki on Sun Aug 31 00:04:22 2003

Hello everyone :) How's it going? Great, I hope! I totally appreciate all of your trials and concerns, but I just want to say this one thing very quickly and simply...PLEASE don't take offence or anything at all...: Take a step back, and look at the big picture (as Shaun was saying)...Use your best judgement! Try not to get too bogged down with the details of this job. Of course we have to be concerned with Safety (the number one issue), and as long as that is what is being tended to, than that is what really matters the most. There are many times when I have noticed a pax who I felt would be defiant (by putting the seatback back down, after I asked them to put it up, for example), so I have gotten up while we were taxing, to reprimand them....(gosh, we ARE babysitters, aren't we!?!). But I feel this is perfectly acceptable, since it is a safety issue. Anyways, I guess what I

Message from SaDee on Sat Aug 30 19:38:07 2003

Hi guys, Thanks!! I also thought that if you do get up that you're supposed to let the FLT Deck know, and especially if a pax is up...but it all happens so fast. Plus, we didn't really know what was going on like we could have started moving at any second or got run over by Air Force One like Karen! heh heh The FA Mgr said, "Well, the FLT Deck was probably really busy and since there were two of us--I knew she was up whereas on the Saab there's only one FA. Karen, that cell phone story is sooooooooooooo funny!!! Especially that it kept going and going! ha ha ho! When I worked at NW and was on a trip with another computer geek he left his cell on and it was going off in the overhead but he didn't think it was his and he made a comment about the idiots that leave their phones on. So we got a good laugh when we discovered that it was his!! he heee Thanks again you guys!

Message from Karen on Sat Aug 30 18:29:37 2003

Oh SaDee, I feel bad for you... that was an awkward situation! Especially knowing the FAA was on board! When we were in a taxi hold during the Air Force One episode, I wanted to get out of my seatbelt ssooooo bad to get a better look at it, but I was afraid that the pax would take my lead and all get up and jockey around for the best position, and you hate to be like, "you can't but I can" when it's just to see Air Force One, not a duty related thing. So the nice guy that I was chatting with in 1C was like "look! it's right by us!" and I said I'm really not supposed to get up, and then I added, "I'll just cheat a little", so I did. I told the pilots later cause they were so pumped, they are like "did you see it??!!" and I said I cheated and did get up, and they are like "no big deal, we weren't going anywhere". But no one else did get up luckily, I didn't walk around - just looked out 1A and 1D (which were both empty). But anyway, I totally know what you are saying. When I non-reved we had to hold for about 25 minutes to get to our gate, and the FWD FA was taking care of the galley, putting things away, even did his "prepare doors for arrival" announcement!!! But I know what you mean Shaun, (aside from the FA wanting a good look at Air Force One!) as long as you can "interpret" it as related to safety ... for example I had a flight where - of course - guess who forgot to turn off her cell phone because she was so late getting to the gate (thanks to thinking that as long as I'm with the captain when I go to McDonald's I'll be ok - tip: don't ever think that!! - we were in DTW and I was just following his lead, as I don't know my way around there really) anyway we were taxiing and a cell phone rings, and I didn't think it was mine (I used to think if mine did ring I'd never hear it - I don't think that anymore), and after it finally stopped it gave the beeps meaning there was a message. By now we were in our steep ascent. Then I found out that it doesn't just beep for 10 seconds, it waits 2 minutes and starts up again (and again, and again!). By now I have figured out it's my phone and the pax look kind of concerned - like what is that beeping. Still no chime as it was a little turbulent. So finally when I thought it was smooth enough I got up and shut it off, reasoning that if pax were worried about their safety, thinking some kind of alarm was going off on the plane, then it warranted me getting up and shutting it off before the chime. Not one of my prouder moments to say the least!!

Message from Pam on Sat Aug 30 13:09:45 2003

Hey SaDee wow that was awkward situation for you to be in. Shaun is right just use your best judgement and ask yourself is this a pax safety issue. It's a good thing you did you go your FA Mgr., cause if you hadn't there is no telling what the other FA would have told her, at least she got both sides of the story so don't feel stupid. I looked at it as a C Y A!!!!! That other FA was out of line but the beauty of this job is that you probably won't have to work with her again for a long time.

Message from Shaun on Sat Aug 30 12:01:45 2003

That list they give you could have changed and its stupid to give out that info anyways...what about gate changes? I hope this helped you out a bit. There is alot of ways to look at the FAA rules, what you just need to think about is if there was a FAA ghostrider onboard and you needed to explain to him why you were out of your seat...what would to say to him/her? Would there be good reasoning for it? Could you say it ultimately did concern pax safety? Just use your best judgement...thats how I would look at situations like that. So safe flying and if that FA was not open to your thoughts well then p*ss on her, nothing annoys me more than people who arent willing to just talk about situations like that..They go off and pout. Frankly those are people who make this job more complicated than it really is and need to oh I dont know...maybe find another line of work? :)

Message from Shaun on Sat Aug 30 12:01:32 2003

Hey SaDee, in response to your event, here are my thoughts.....First if you were in a taxi hold and you got up that is fine. As long as you werent or arent moving then you can get up and help passengers out. If you were taxiing, then the rule does state that you should not be out of your jumpseat unless it concerns the safety of the pax. Now you can really get creative here with your reasoning. The FAA doesnt go into huge details with the reasons why you are up. If you had a pax that was about to get up out of her seat and you needed to get up to tell her to sit down, then that is safety related. Now since you are up, it would give you a second to grab the bottle for the baby...or any other small favor for our lovely passengers. As far as getting up to tell people about their connections? Well like I said before if you were stopped, then of course you can get up. Its only during "movement of the aircraft" that you should be at your jumpseat, reason being you need to be by the exits. Now I know people get restless about connections and all the other great stressors of traveling. So here is an alternative to that, simply wait for the CA to get done talking then make an announcement just reassuring the passengers that there will be a CSA meeting the flight who will do the best they can to help you find your connecting flight or if needed rebook etc. CONT'D ABOVE....

Message from SaDee on Sat Aug 30 10:55:54 2003

PART THREE: Anyway, I really, really wish that I hadn't even gone to the FA Mgr because I feel soooooooooo stupid now. From now on I'll think "What would Lisa (the FA Mgr) do?" and go with that philosophy. That FWD FA hates me now. We only had one turn to DSM after that and when we got back to MSP she just marched off the jet way without a word and never looked back. Give me honest feed back guys. Thanks.

Message from SaDee on Sat Aug 30 10:55:30 2003

PART TWO: So what would you guys do in that situation? I was thinking about that recent memo about not getting up during taxi, PLUS, the FAA was IN our FLT Deck at that moment!! So, I didn't get up. After the flight I apologized to the lady and the baby wasn't even crying so she didn't mind. But, the FWD FA got mad at me for apologizing to the lady and blew off my concerns about being up and about during taxi. Then we headed for the Crew Room and I thought well, I'll got talk to the FA Mgr for clairification and she was headed there too so I walked in with her much to her surprise. She said she didn't know why I was there so I said, "Well, I thought we were going to talk to her about what happen." She threw her hands up in the air and crossed her arms over her chest and said, "Fine, go ahead." So I briefly explained that I was just wondering if it would have been alright for me to get up to help that lady or what because I thought especially since we just got that memo--that it was a big deal that we remain seated during taxi unless it's safety related. The FA Mgr said something about my "just being fresh out of training" and that, she, being a mom would have known it was important to get the baby's bottle and she would have done that." She also asked if we communicated with each other and I said no because the FAA was in the Flt deck and would have heard me say, hey, is it okay for us to be walking around during taxi? CONTINUTED....

Message from SaDee on Sat Aug 30 10:54:24 2003

Hi Guys! PART ONE: My flight just landed in MSP when Air Force One was on the ground but we didn't know what was happening so we were in a-taxi-hold. We found out what took so long when we got to the gate and the CA made an announcement about it. During that long taxi the pax were all going nuts and a lady got up to get her carry on out of the overhead right when the CA was making an announcement so the FWD FA got up and ran over to her (I was thinking because she couldn't use the PA since the CA was on it). Then the FWD FA started talking to a bunch of other people and I saw her get the list of connecting flt info to tell everyone what it said. Ok, first, I thought wouldn't it be better to tell them to check the monitors when we get to the gate because it would give the most current info AND second, shouldn't she be in her jump seat because it wasn't a safety issue?? Then a lady in the back got up to fetch a bottle for her baby out of her bag in the overhead and I told her (from my jump seat) that we have to stay seated. This other guy says to me, "Well, why don't you get it for her then?" And I said I really shouldn't because we're not supposed to be up unless it's a safety issue. He snorted and pointed to the FWD FA that was still walking around talking to everyone about connecting flts, and said, "What about her?" CONTINUED....

Message from Pam on Sat Aug 30 08:58:05 2003

Sounds like a fun job Shaun hope it works out for you! Karen your so funny I too like gadgets I just bought new knives that are suppose to last me a life time which will be short if I don't keep cutting my fingers......THEY ARE SO SHARP!!! Ok I am now on my second weekend of reserve and still no call! I don't understand if they don't call me soon I'm going to forget all that I learned especially the announcements which I was getting good at not using the book. I checked the open time and there is a lot for September does that mean they are short staffed? How does that work?

Message from Shaun on Fri Aug 29 23:38:26 2003

Hey thanks Karen for the heads up. How nice of scheduling! Well I had my orientation for MURRAY AVIATION today. Wow, saw a/c 102. They took all the overheads out and re did the interior. Seats smell like new leather, new carpet. Ya know if they kept up on them the A and B models wouldnt look so bad at MESABA. Seems like it will be a fun job there. Tom Petty and the band fly alot and ford and chrylser execs (hum i think i am gonna have to watch them) Well nice to hear 10 more people are in training. Wow i was 556 when i started, already i'm 521....keep it movin people! LOL Karen that fair sounds GREAT. I feel the need to make some chocolate chip cookies now! Well I think we will all be used quite a bit for september. Have you seen the lists of opentime? Its huge! Well happy flying all...CIAO

Message from Karen on Fri Aug 29 17:55:52 2003

Shaun, your good deed for Scheduling made the XJ web site! See the FA Hotline 8/29/03. :-) So being an FA means going to the State Fair alone (sigh) but actually it meant I could buy stuff without someone telling me I don't need it! I bought chamois cleaning cloths that I now know I can't live without, and also a chopper/slicer/shredder gadget (I love gadgets!). I didn't buy the awesome mop though - my husband's teases me that we always end up with a new mop after going to the fair, and I couldn't take the ribbing (but it really did look like the best mop ever!). And yes, I did get the chocolate chip cookies right out of the oven - so hot they droop when you pick 'em up (a take home bucket!). Pam, I'm so surprised you didn't get called more this month! All those days off, that is really something! Hey you guys, the heat broke here today, everyone was actually wearing sweaters this morning. I think the worst (hottest) days on the Saab have passed :-) . Before we know it we will be trying to stay warm!

Message from Karen on Thu Aug 28 12:39:09 2003

Wow Shaun - that is amazing! How can you fit that in your schedule? You are very busy, but I know you like that. I can't believe they fly our Saabs! They must have thought they died and went to heaven when they saw your qualifications!

Message from Pam on Thu Aug 28 10:52:44 2003

Ok guys I think I'm getting paranoid here I have been off for 10 days straight is this normal or did I do something wrong? They would call me right if I did something wrong? I know this sounds silly but all you guys are flying. I did have the last three scheduled off and back on Reserve tomorrow. Shaun thats cool about your other job what is the name of the company? Did you guys read about the US Airway's commuter crash?

Message from Shaun on Thu Aug 28 10:10:51 2003

As if flying for Mesaba wasnt enough....I got a second job working for a charter company! Guess what they fly? SAABS! Well its a good deal, pick up a trip whenever you want. Just contracted to work for them. Uniform is khakis and polo shirt. We fly business men, nascar drivers, bands etc. Seems like it will be fun. go in for orientation tomorrow! Oh and get this, they bought saabs from MESABA. LOL All A-models but reconfigured with 22 seats! I think I'm gonna end up being in the air more than the ground. But hey, they pay flat rate of 125 a day no matter how much you fly. Good deal I guess. Also, glad you guys are reading that book. Definately humorous! see ya all and safe flying....

Message from Shaun on Thu Aug 28 10:02:07 2003

88 hours for the month....and guess what they never called me the past two days! :)

Message from Karen on Thu Aug 28 09:05:45 2003

Just wondering how many hours everyone has this month -- I just called Crew Voice and learned that I have 77 credit hours! I'm over the guarantee! If they use me my next Reserve day (Sunday) I will actually increase my paycheck! (It'll probably be a St Cloud turn - LOL)

Message from Pam on Thu Aug 28 08:40:01 2003

Shune just finished that book Around the World in a Bad Mood.......it's very funny and so true!

Message from Karen on Wed Aug 27 21:03:50 2003

Shaun, I picked up that book the day I read your original post about it. Had trouble finding it at Barnes & Noble - it's in the "Humor" section! Haven't had time to start it yet, because I'm still not done with what I'm reading now. Looks very good though, and especially after your testimonial I can't wait to get to it! I have talked to Nathan in scheduling too - seemed really nice, told me the CA & FO names over the phone - no biggie, but I thought wow, that's a nice little extra touch. Loren is really nice too. Not fond of Janelle :) Just got in from a 20.5 hour 3 day, ran into Marleen and SaDee (at the same time) in the MSP crew room, we all had so little time but it was fun to FINALLY run into classmates!! Guess what happened yesterday at MSP? Pres Bush came to St Paul to give a speech or something and it shut down the airport for a bit. We were coming in on a landing and you know how you see that Air National Guard out the 1D window on the Saab, and I'm saying to myself "what is that big beautiful white 747 doing there - then I read the fine print: United States of America. It's Air Force One!!" This was me giving my announcement "and for your continued safety we ask you to remain seated wtih your seatbelt fastened.... that's Air Force One! You can see Air Force One out there!" It really was quite a thrill to see it, even though we had to stop short of our gate when they "froze" all movement on the ground for it to take-off. The pax were excited to because we had a good view - the FO said he thought it was going to hit us as it taxiid into position to take off!

Message from Pam on Tue Aug 26 08:19:05 2003

Well I went for 5 days on reserve and no call didn't know I was going to have a mini vacation! Thats great about Mary going to Costa Rica hope she was able to leave it was storming pretty bad this morning. Glad you were able to finally find that book Shaun sounds like fun reading and am going to look for it myself. Just finished The Pilot's Wife was in interesting story a nice twist! While you guys are looking for uniform pieces for Nadine if you come across slacks, dress and blouses (size 4) please let me know these four day trips is hard with only one pair of slacks and a skirt. I'm now off for 3 days ........ safe flying everyone!

Message from Shaun on Mon Aug 25 21:25:34 2003

OK Nathan in scheduling is awesome...I got called with an hours notice and of course since I live 10 mins away from the lot I got eh flight out on time. Well dont you know who leaves a thank you note in my box...Nathan and our manager. AWWWW :) I like him...lol but thats a whole different story. Anyways Mary is non-reving for the first time tomorrow. Of course being as crazy as she is, she is going to San Jose Costa Rica on Continental..wow is she brave or what? Only 4 days off. Well thats the best part of this job, but it took me time to go that far with so few days off. So good luck with the trip Mary! Use those perks. I finished that book "Around the World in a Bad Mood" WOW you guys have to read it. Its so true and no its not just all about the bad parts of the job as the title portrays it to be. Great book and worth 13 bucks. Its by Rene Foss. READ IT!!! Ok well only 2 more days of reserve and then 3 days off. Lets see if I can go these two days without being called. :) Hope everyone is doing great...Pam dont worry, your time will come for them to abuse you and you will be enjoying the days they dont call! See ya guys....P.S. if you talk to Nathan in scheduling tell him I said HI LOL

Message from Marleen on Mon Aug 25 11:51:06 2003

So much to say to everyone...Those per diem checks were awesome! More than the flight pay check, but I'll take it! I got my GDOs for SEP, too. Just lucky, I guess. My husband and I did our first not-rev over the weekend to MEM to visit some friends. We took the early am flights and had no trouble. CAK sounds like the bomb! Watch out for the taxi service in PAH; the cab driver told us they were all losing their jobs. Could mean a change in hotels. Hello, Heather! Glad to hear from you! Good luck with school. Nadine, I've been looking, too, for uniforms. CVG doesn't have anything posted with those sizes, but I'll let you know if I see anything. And hats off to Joseph! I, too, and so jealous, but happy as heck for you! Just got a call from scheduling that I'm ready reserve tomorrow, so I guess that means it's my day to babysit the crew room, again. Wish I could go somewhere; no big per diem check this month :( . Fly safe, all!

Message from Nikki on Sun Aug 24 19:28:06 2003

Oh, Mary, tell us how things are going with the gate guy!! :)

Message from Nikki on Sun Aug 24 19:26:40 2003

Hey everyone :) Joseph, I am SO Jealous! Not only do you have a line, but you get the long layovers in PHl (my family is there!) and Newark! So Lucky! Have fun, and tell me all about it! Shaun, it was so fun spending the other afternoon with you in DTW :) By the way, that was my FO we saw at RioWraps...but its cool...he and I ate there together the next day!Too bad he's getting married in a month! Oh and I am officially now "the rebound girl". The guy I was seeing went back to his (ugly, by the way) exgirlfriend...So did the guy I was seeing before that! Whatever...I'm swearing off men for a little while (al least until the next one comes along, right?!)I am already getting sad that my greenline is about to end :( Hopefully they'll use me a lot on reserve...We'll just have to see! Have fun everyone, and see you all soon! ps- I saw Betsey in DTW, and she is doing great! Such a sweetheart! :) Nikki

Message from Pam on Sun Aug 24 18:34:04 2003

Ok day 4 of the 5 day and still no call. I don't think they will use me now since I go off reserve Tuesday unless it's a day trip maybe it's the calm before the storm again. I am really surprise that I didn't at least do a high speed or something. Shaun why did they use you every day??

Message from Shaun on Sun Aug 24 15:19:48 2003

OK they have used me every single day this month. So I think they just pick people how ever they want to. Besides how is anyone going to know how they do it? Ahh well I guess its cash but wow i would love for them to not call me for 4 reserve days. Especially because of this per diem check. BILLS??? what bills? HEHE. Well I am in MLU. They just got a "business center" so being the freak who lives off the internet HERE I AM! :) Oh well...talk to ya all later. Oh by the way I just saw Joseph before flying down here. He was all excited about his line. I'm happy for him because he commutes and it will make it much easier on him knowing when to fly in. He even has the 20 hr layovers in PHL and EWR. NIIIIICE! OK CIAO

Message from Karen on Sun Aug 24 15:15:35 2003

Well I just got my call from Scheduling - shoots my theory about no trips out there that match my schedule... I start a 3 day tomorrow. No DTW stops, but if you guys come to MSP I hope to run into you!

Message from Karen on Sun Aug 24 14:31:34 2003

After it asks desired bid time, enter 8 for August.

Message from Pam on Sun Aug 24 13:39:03 2003

How do you get your summery information? I called crew voice and pressed #1 then it asked for disired bid time didn't know what to put. I guess most of us has been sitting round this weekend Heather glad to hear your going to school and that things are going well for you....good to hear from you!

Message from Karen on Sun Aug 24 12:13:19 2003

I'm on day 3 of reserve with no call too! Aside from the "extra reserves" floating around, I suppose they look at how many hours we have flown this month when they assign flying? I have 54 hours this month, maybe that's more than some others, so I don't get called. I'm sure they'll give me a ready reserve pretty soon at this rate! How many hours have you guys flown this month? Crew Voice will tell you exactly, press option #1. Also I've been watching the open time and I don't see any trips that would work for me, so I suppose I'll only get called if someone is sick or times out or something. Heather, so nice to hear from you!! Congratulations on your school schedule working out - good for you! You MEM people, I second Pam's motion that we are JEALOUS, but none-the-less excited for you! Imagine, Barb Setsvold told you it would be about a year, and here you are now!! The earliest I can possibly see me getting a line is Jan or Feb, but she originally said it would be 2 years, so I can't be dissapointed.

Message from Heather on Sun Aug 24 08:40:16 2003

Okay so I am a litlle late getting on here and saying hi to all! Did everyone love those per diem checks or what! I went to Memphis to visit Nicole...she is fine and I just might have to transfer to MEM if Joe got a line already! Detroit is too crowded and I want more per diem checks! I am sitting ready reserve today after the last 4 days on reserve with not one call! And I have one more day of reserve to go! At least I got my birthday of for September! September 21, I will be 24 years old! Schools starts 9-5-03 and I willable to go full time! God is blessong me...I just might graduate this year and still be able to keep my job! Talk to you all soon! Fly high with your prayers in the sky!

Message from Pam on Sun Aug 24 08:35:01 2003

Well on day 4 of reserve and still no call!!! Is this Normal? Are the rest of you working?

Message from Pam on Sat Aug 23 11:17:07 2003

You go Joseph!!!! That is so exciting and I'm sooooooo jealous! Hopefully the rest of us will have a line soon. I'm so board right now (better watch what I say huh?) I've bonded with my girls, cleaned house, worked in my garden I mean what else can you do while sitting by the phone?

Message from Joseph on Sat Aug 23 10:20:58 2003

Ok everybody! Get ready to read this............I GOT A LINE THIS MONTH!!!!! I have no reserve for the month of September!!! I am so excited. I also got several jet trips. Well I must say that I think now I will enjoy the job much better. Can you believe. July and August on reserve and now A LINE!!!!!!!!!!!!! I'M HAPPY

Message from Karen on Sat Aug 23 10:02:27 2003

Pam, yes my theory is that we are not getting called because of all the new graduates. Like for MSP, crew planning says we need 26 reserves for Aug, but now for these 2 weeks we have 26 + 9 new graduates that are also on reserve. I looked at your schedule and maybe Sep 17 or 24 would work for a Twins game! Anyone else? The other thing I should tell you guys about if you have some days off and want to fly somewhere is that the MN State Fair is going on right now till Labor Day and it is HUGE! It's known for being one of the best in the country (the only bigger fair is in Texas I think). The food alone is incredible! New this year: deep fried Twinkies. Not sure about that one, my favorite is the little chocolate chip cookies right out of the oven. Let me know if you want to know more about the fair.

Message from Pam on Sat Aug 23 08:57:19 2003

Hey guys well I'm on my 3rd day of a 5 day reserve and still no call first time since we started that they haven't called me to work whats up with that???? I have been off since last Monday!! Is it because of all the new people? Karen that would be fun to go to a Twin's game my husband would love that. He is so upset with the Tigers right now that he is watching Little League games instead! Shaun there is a website to protect you from these virus's go to http:www.microsoft./technet/treeview/default.asp? this will give you information on how to download the worm blaster patch, do you have windows XP? Give me a call if you need help.

Message from Karen on Fri Aug 22 23:33:13 2003

Thanks for the tip Shaun, but unfortunately I found FIVE fa's with GDO's on the 20th. I work the 18th-22nd, so SaDee, I don't think you and I could strike a deal either - We want the same days off! Just got back from the Twins game (it's my first day of a 6 day stretch of Reserve) and I had my cell phone close by, but luckily it didn't ring. The only thing better would be if we would have beat the Royals, to possibly take over first place in the division!!! (If the White Sox would please lose too) It was an exciting game though. It would be fun if a bunch of you guys could fly in for a Twins game some time! It's not like you would really want to go to a Tigers game, would you? Big article on the front page of the Business section in the Mpls StarTribune today showing the Mesaba pilots picketing the shareholders meeting yesterday - lots of pictures too. I also saw a bit on the news last night, showed quite a bit of footage at the airport and a lot of shots of the Saab taxiing around. They were interviewing people about the impact of a strike. I heard that for 40% of our outstations we are the only airline coming in there - that's a major impact all right. TTFN

Message from Shaun on Fri Aug 22 20:17:48 2003

Hey all...sorry my computer got one of those viruses that was floating around. Well needless to say I was without a computer and had to lose everything and start again. Oh well it seems new again. PER DIEM CHECKS FINALLY! By the way, the per diem is kinda tricky on the check. They Take your total hours and total it up. Then just kinda add it as one hour of pay. So be careful. Payroll and scheduling both are tricky. Well I bid for 13 14 15 off...my b-day is the 14th, so they gave me 12-15th off. Karen make sure you look at the final lines. The ONLY reason you should not have gotten them off is if TWO FA's above you have GDO's on that day. If they dont call planning and bring it up. Its in the contract. Well I have 6 days of reserve starting tomorrow. By the way I just bought the book "Around the World in a Bad Mood" So far very funny and its written by Rene Foss a NW flight attendant. So true! Well take care all. Another class is starting!! Seniority what? CIAO

Message from SaDee on Fri Aug 22 18:44:46 2003

k, got my p/d too! sheesh it's hard to tell how it works out...gotta just trust the system, i guess. Hey, Karen, I'll trade with you so you can have that day off! I need some of these days off >> 19th - 22nd. Do you want to with trade any of those? What day is it you need off?

Message from Pam on Fri Aug 22 18:09:05 2003

What a schedule.....I did get my golden days off so that was good. Hey Shaun where are you?

Message from Karen on Fri Aug 22 16:00:15 2003

September schedules are out early (hint: due out on Sunday, and the IS dept does not work weekends!) I never get my Golden Days Off! The day I REALLY wanted off is smack in the middle of 5 days of reserve :( ... my daughter's senior year and that's the big home Cross Country meet with the Parent's pot luck picnic. Well maybe I won't be flying and can take a chance on being called to the airport - the college is only 30 min. south of the airport.

Message from Pam on Thu Aug 21 15:03:15 2003

haven't gotten mine yet Karen but after school cloths shopping it sure will be nice to get it!!

Message from Karen on Thu Aug 21 13:38:21 2003

Hey, the per diem check is out!! I am very pleased - that non-taxable per diem really adds up!!! Yeah!

Message from SaDee on Thu Aug 21 11:18:26 2003

I too was sent to DTW over the weekend! It was c r a z y ...but fun too. I was in CAK overnight too, Karen, and since I hadn't really eaten those room treats were just fantastic!! I was going to write the management a nice thank you note but then in the morning I didn't get my wake up call!! So I was rushed. I made it down to the lobby in like 7 minutes...not makeup or anything oh well the heat would have melted it off anyway right! I don't mind the heat actually on the Saabs, I just try to water the people even before we take off. I did get to see Kim on a flight as she was commuting home. It was a crazy flight to begin with because we had too much weight and it was sooooooooooo hot everyone was going nuts. They actually bumped her off at one point but let her back on when a woman went crazy and bolted off the aircraft! Then they made her husband get off too, he went reluctantly! I think he wanted to just leave her behind! heh heh heh So they let Kim back on! She says she talks to Dora everyday. I got to go to Charlett {sp??) what a cool landing!! Also we went to Toronto and I wished we could have overnighted there because I've heard it's a really cool place. After I got home from DTW I thought I might be done but they called with a BIS turn for me and it was actually really fun. Plus, I met a soulmate for my son Forrest at security in MSP! She'd just won the Star Search competition for singing in Miami and was on her way home to Austin TX with her mom. She's so sweet and we've been emailing now. I'm a yenta!! My other son wants me to find his soulmate now but hopefully one that lives closer to home! Hey, what about those per diem checks?? Anyone? Have you received one yet? I'm back on reserve tomorrow so I don't know where my adventures will take me!

Message from Nadine on Wed Aug 20 13:39:20 2003

thanks karen :) marlene would you mind to chk your crew room for uniforms for sale?size 10-14 thanks :) omg i only flew a total of 23 hrs this month! pam how did you get so lucky? i dh to mem tomarrow and for 2 high speeds so i'll be sitting in the hotel all day long thur and fri i have 4 different hotels to go to! lol hey dtw people look for apryl edwards she is cute tall and skinny and black she is my friend she just finished her oe she is so nervous. hey did any of you meet jessica johnson-an fo girl :) on reserve she is sooooo cool i can't wait to see sept scdls so how long you all think we will be on reserve??? i wish the rest of our class would get on here too take care all bye:0

Message from Karen on Wed Aug 20 10:01:31 2003

Marleen, a 3 day Saab trip with a total of 6 legs!?! How many block hours?? I'm jealous, the one I just got done with blocked over 22 hours, we had 17 legs total. No time to lay around and enjoy any hot tubs or anything like that. So you and Shaun got sent to MEM, I noticed in the seniority list that they only have 3 reserves for September and I wondered if that means they are really short and will be sending some of us there to cover it. By the way everyone, the hotels in CAK and ROA are both very nice! In CAK they have a treat basket for you in your room! Chips, granola bar, fun size snickers, and a cookie, along with a letter about how much they appreciate hosting the Mesaba crews and "if you are on flight 3098 your shuttle will leave at 8:15" etc etc - nice touch! And in ROA the hotel in the lobby gives crew members a 50% discount on any dinner on the menu and also the breakfast buffet. Breakfast buffet came to $3.75 and it had everything you can imagine, including beverage. Also in ROA a huge indoor/outdoor pool (swim in, swim out) and a hot tub that I did not have a chance to enjoy.

Message from Marleen on Wed Aug 20 09:10:24 2003

Sounds like some of you have been working hard. I only have about 47 hours this month, and I'm off the next four days. (GDO-how nice!) I finished my first SAAB trip! Karen, I was thinking of you when our plane broke the first flight on day two. We were stuck in PADUCAH for 4 hours waiting for the next plane to come in. When it got there, with the mechanics, we took that plane and left the new crew with our broken one. Only did a total of 6 legs the whole 3 days, but it was enough to feel comfortable and refreshed on the procedures. Boy, are those planes hoootttt! They weren't kidding when they told us to drink plenty of water. I ran into Shawn at MEM. We were both DH, two different places, but we tried to visit for a while. I say "tried" because a PAX sitting there in the lobby kept interupting and dominating our conversation! But, it was nice to see a fellow classmate. I'm ready reserve today and just ran into Nikki. Anybody else have poweroutage stories? Hey, I got a nice PAX letter the other day! On a flight from OKC-MEM; came with a nice letter from Barb and everything! How cool! It's nice to be commended when you feel you're just doing you job. (Guess that makes up for the time I left my FA announcement handbook on one of the flights. It came back to me with "extra" information filled in the blanks. It was kind of funny, but I think I need to white it out!) Gonna take a nap now. Safe flying all!

Message from Pam on Tue Aug 19 18:50:04 2003

Yes Karen I did get the cloths......thank you! I sent you an e-mail but it didn't go through cause it came back. Anyways sorry I missed you finished up my 4 day yesterday and back at it on Thursday. They really worked me a lot this month I should have about 95 hours total for the month maybe more cause the month isn't over yet had mostly four day trips and 2 high speeds so far.

Message from Karen on Tue Aug 19 17:26:42 2003

Nadine - here's what's posted...Rosa 612-922-0694 is selling various items sizes 10 & 12R. Amy 651-465-3051 home or 651-336-8324 cell, is selling various items sizes 16-22. Well I'm almost done with my 3 day trip here. I ran into Lisa today while she was sitting Ready Reserve, but I thought I would see more DTW people than that, for all the turns I did there in the last 3 days. As Pam reported they wouldn't give us coffee, and just one bag of ice, so that was a bit of a bummer. So now I have felt the impact of the power outage first hand- LOL. The nice thing about being in DTW was that MSP was in a heat wave, so it was about 15-20 degrees cooler where we were (nice!). I'm usually a hot weather fan, but that was before my days working on the Saab! Pam, I dropped a bag in your mailbox, did you get it? Was in such a hurry I didn't write more of a note!

Message from Nadine on Tue Aug 19 09:33:37 2003

Hello all my fellow fa's Mary happy b-day but i think you got nikki's message confused with me!!! karen congrats! poor laura :( every one else stay strong-my friend melanie has been here like 5 years and she had 20 days off this month with 96 hours!!!! we have great things to look fowrd to. karen do people list uniforms for sale in your crew room? i need some things and all the sizes that are posted here are not the right ones for me. help :) this reserve thing is crazy i was awakened at 7 for a 930 show than while drivig to the aport they called and chgd it to 130 so i am at the library playing on the com :) i hate going in just for 1 turn a waste of my day. HOW MANY HOURS DO YOU ALL HAVE FOR THE MONTH??? i only have 23 my chk is going to be nothing :( stay strong all BYE :0

Message from Pam on Mon Aug 18 22:29:18 2003

Hello all.....just got back from a 4 dayer...what a weekend!!! Between the power going out and the heavens opening up with buckets of water we had on Friday it was c r a z y!!. They called me early Friday to do this trip was a bit surprised because they said on the news that nothing was moving at the airport and encouraged all business to close up. Looked real nice coming into work, couldn't wash my hair or put on makeup I did however manage a shower! Anyways I start out on the first trip did a turn to Bloomington, IL and back and my next trip to London, Ontario was cancelled as so were most of the flights that day so we sat! The buses that shuttle us to and from the employee parking lot was not working due to the flooding so people we stranded at both ends. We could not get Ice or coffee but most of the outstations were very good about swaping coffee pots and supplying ice. On Saturday we were taxing and all of the sudden we did this about turn and lined up with the other SAABS. A NW flight had landing gear problems so we had to wait for them then we see fire trucks flying down the runway to one of our jets that radioed they were smelling smoke in the cabin and cockpit. Everything seemed to be ok and did not hear if it was serious or not. Needless to say I'm glad to have a couple days off it was pretty scary around here.

Message from Marleen on Sun Aug 17 13:07:39 2003

Watch what I wish for, huh? Just got assigned a 3 day Saab trip. I'm excited but a bit nervous. Going to Paducha and Alexandria, LA. Wish me luck!

Message from Marleen on Sat Aug 16 18:41:59 2003

Am I the only one that is not working? I've not gotten a call from screw scheduling for 4 days, and the day before that I was ready reserve and didn't go anywhere. I'm starting to wonder if they forgot about me. (Wishful thinking!) I have had a chance to see my husband alot, though, and I finally got around to getting copies of some pictures. So, be on the lookout for some grad/class photos. Also, I have not had a saab trip since my OE-any suggestions on anything I should brush up on? I ran into Lisa in the DTW crew room. She was ready reserve, but doing well. Joseph, welcome back! And SaDee, watch the back!! Hope all is ok. Congratulations, Karen!! The baby will be here before you know it. Hope to see any of you soon, if I ever go back to work! How did the power outage affect any of you? Let us know.

Message from Karen on Sat Aug 16 15:16:18 2003

I had to replace a CVG FA last night on the jet MSP->CVG, then deadheaded back this morning - was looking for Nikki and Marleen, but no such luck! :( Funny story...I'll try to be brief - fat chance :-).... They weren't expecting me at the hotel in CVG, so the lady tells me to call Scheduling, and she says "that's funny, they called today and I told them I had no rooms" but she actually did because of cancellation...anyway, so Scheduling said "do they have a room for you?" and I said "yes" and he says "I called today and they said they had no rooms"... I'm thinking, why did you send me here??!! Isn't that funny? It was 10:30 at night, and Scheduling thought I had no room????? On the DH flight this morning they had an OE, one I knew 'cause she observed me on the Saab a few weeks ago. Lots of OE's out there this weekend - seniority here we come! Not so fast here in MSP, but it looks better than what they told me when I was hired, that's for sure. I have a 3 day starting tomorrow (Sun) that will take me in and out of DTW quite a bit - all 3 days in fact. I will look for you DTW people!

Message from SaDee on Sat Aug 16 08:37:39 2003

Just taking a minute to catch up with you guys...it's so great to have this web site to be able to hear about what's going on with you all. Mary, you are so funny! Thanks for sharing your love-at-the-airport stories! K, what's the deal with the per diem checks? Has anyone received one yet? I overnighted in Rochester, MN last weekend and it was sooooooooo cool! Hope you get a chance to go there. I was thinking of everyone with the NE Black out wondering if it was affecting any of you!! I've had 3 days off so I've been out of the loop. One of the "trainers" that was wandering around the gates the first day of the new carry-on policy told me that it's safer to have the weight up in the cabin than below in cargo so I'm completely confused at the new policy of coaxing the pax to put their items below. I really like this job, I'm having fun and it's rewarding to make flights great for the paxs. I just wish it paid better, that's the only thing. I like being out and about in all the cities and towns, staying at hotels, going out to eat with the pilots, walking, shopping, exploring. St. Cloud has a FABULOUS walk by the river to a park with tons-o-flowers and benches...so I bring a book and relax there. I got my little mini wings this month for being at Mesaba for one year.

Message from Karen on Fri Aug 15 10:25:48 2003

Found this story on mymesaba! Wow!... Thanks to the crew of Captain Thibaut Moutier, First Officer Kim O’Keefe and Flight Attendant Michelle Guard for their quick and decisive actions on a flight Wednesday, July 30. The crew was inbound to Detroit from Canton-Akron on flight 3298 when a passenger suffered a heart attack minutes before touchdown. Michelle rose to assist the passenger and alerted the captain to an emergency. Thibaut then radioed in the medical emergency to the tower and gained priority clearance to land. While the first officer landed the plane, the captain kept in contact with the tower, and Michelle performed CPR on the passenger and was able to restore his breathing. Because of the quick radio call to the tower, an ambulance met the plane at the end of the arrival runway. Thibaut and Kim shut down the engines, and the medical team boarded and got the passenger off the plane safely.

Message from Karen on Fri Aug 15 10:21:31 2003

So you DTW people, you all lost power? Did FA's get stranded trying to get into DTW? Our newscasts are showing lots of travelers stranded at MSP as flights were diverted here. When you get your power back and you are able to get back on the internet, you'll have to tell us about it.

Message from Mary on Thu Aug 14 13:22:09 2003

FYI: 14:23 GATE AGENT UPDATE Shaun Santos, Gate Agent at DTW...mostly works the B concourse in the afternoons. I have gone out twice with him and what can I say I am head over heels. Today at 7 am he left for Atlanta, GA to visit some friends. He did not know that I had today off so he felt really bad (probably a big acting job, but what do I care?)and asked me if it was okay that he was leaving for GA. Like I am really going to say yes I mind are you going to cancel your ticket now? No way, so I said oh..it's okay go have fun with your friends. I'll be just fine. I mean come on we have only gone out twice, I stalked in the airport a couple of times and after it took him 8 days to call me I've talked to him maybe 5 times. Anyways he is the most physically fit guy that I have ever been with...I feel kinda like a heffer around him, so I need to lose a few or start going to the gym. He asked me if I wanted to know something about him on our first date and I said sure. I mean I always thought that first dates were to finds stuff out about the other person. Anyways he tells me that he is a vegetaarian and he said it like I would be shocked or that it was the most interesting thing about him. I said that cool. I eat meat. Anyways maybe I'll be a veggie now. I hear you can lose a few pounds that way too. Okay so to make a long story short...It was love at first sight when he was closing that RJ door and I love him (not really yet, but you know what i mean). Anyways he has total potential and the past two nights we went out he was totally into liking my pants. Now I have to wear cool pants around him. Happy flying and don't hesitate to throw those extra bags that are not listed on the yellow cheat card out the door of the Saab. If the PAX complains...simply say at least we were parked and not airborn. Bye

Message from Mary on Thu Aug 14 13:08:37 2003

Nadine, I have a trip on my reserve days this weekend starting on the 15th and a report time of 2:30. It ends on the 18th at 4:30. It is a jet trip. I do not know if we can do this but you can work Fri and I will pick up the last part of it Sat before your bachelorette party because Fri is my birthday and I would not mind it off. Let me know.

Message from Pam on Thu Aug 14 11:17:41 2003

Ok I'm getting excited here. I just checked the seniority list and I'm 173 the line holder list is 167. There are 6 new people that have graduated coming to dtw plus there is a class that is graduating next week and another class that starts at the end of the month. Maybe we will be able to start holding a line soon!!! CONGRATS KAREN!!! That is so exciting!! Sorry to hear about Laura.

Message from Karen on Thu Aug 14 10:34:44 2003

Glad to hear the reports that the Saab carry-on policy is not that big a deal. So you are not really seeing more overweight flights as a result of adding that luggage into the cargo equation? I still have yet to work on the Saab since the new policy went into effect! I love all this time off!! I tried to hook up with Pam at Mall of America yesterday, but like a good girl she had her cell phone turned off on her day off - oh well it was worth a try! I see on mymesaba that the new seniority lists are out, and it looks as though our class has its first loss: Laura is not listed on the seniority list anymore :-( So I guess we are down to 17 now. We'll miss her! The other news I have is that I realized I haven't told you guys yet that I'm going to be a Grandma! My 23 yr old son and his wife are expecting a baby next Feb 14! I actually went to a garage sale this morning and bought baby clothes - seems like yesterday I was buying them for my own babies. Wow, time flies. I go back on reserve tomorrow, so hopefully I will see some of you guys soon!

Message from Shaun on Thu Aug 14 09:51:09 2003

Hey all - well I just got off a 3 day yesterday. 16 hrs in EVV and 19 in MLU. OK Monroe (MLU) stinks. Literally the city has a scent to it. Went and saw "28 days later" Crazy movie. Not worth going to see it in the theatre. It was only 2 bucks though. So yeah I was supposed to be done at 1700 and guess who called me? Yup "screw scheduling". They added a TOL turn. Ah well at least it was only a 15 min flight. Ok Miss World Traveler Pam. Where you going next?? Nikki - sorry, I didnt know you were looking for a trip. You should have called me I would have been able to tell you. Yes you can pick up trips at other bases but you are responsible for the commute. Hey all you MEM people, looks like you will be holding a line soon...probably next month. That was quick! Well since i only have two days off i should get a few things done. Oh by the way Mary I hope you at least have a good crew and a long overnight on your birthday. At least you can go out and do something. As for the new carry-on policy, no big deal at all really. They are allowed as many personal items as they want. There is no limit. Only problem I had was a guy with a guitar that wanted it in the overhead. No big deal just told the ground crew to add it to the cargo card. Went smooth on my last trip. They just dont want the roller bags and the huge backpacks etc. Looks like i blew it way out of proportion. I still love flying the saab :) OK Safe flying all, CIAO

Message from Pam on Thu Aug 14 09:25:43 2003

So glad to hear your back up there flying Joseph I hope we run into each other sometime soon. Took my girls for a day of shopping at the Mall of American yesterday......what a fun day. Now they are spoiled flying in shopping and flying home, they want to go to New York next. There is a new resturant that opened since our training it's the Bubba Gump Shrimp Co., and was very good. The waiters are so friendly our waiter kept coming by with Forest Gump movie trivia questions but with my daughters he never had a chance!! My one daughter sayed "mom we need a life if we can sit here and throw Forest Gump movie trivia questions at a waiter at the Mall of America and know more then him!!!" Karen I e-mailed you really sorry we missed each other. Well back on reserve tomorrow hope I have a better schedule then last weeked, I really don't like the high speeds cause you don't get a chance to see any of the places your flying too.

Message from Nikki on Wed Aug 13 11:55:31 2003

Hey Everyone :) Good to hear from you all! I am excited, because my first trip trade request went through :) BUT, I am a little dissappointed, because I would have spent the whole trip with a really cute and sweet FO ;) Also, I really could have used the money!. But alas, be careful what you wish for, right! Anyways, I have a little favour to ask of you all...I just now realized that we can pick up trips and/or opentime from other bases, and since there is barely any in Cincy, I want to do this! I was wondering if you all might be able to let me know if you happen to notice any trip trade requests (probably 2 or 3 days, but even 1 is ok) for the following dates: tomorow, aug.14-sat. aug 16, ending that afternoon (i have a bachelorette party at 7pm, saturday). More reasonable would be sunday evening (the 17th) or monday the 18ththrough tuesday evening. I know you're all on reser

Message from Joseph on Tue Aug 12 20:35:54 2003

My gosh- I have not been on here in so long.......It took me an hour to read all the emails. Guess what you guys? My first day back was Saturday and I am in the back of the plane doing my preflight and in walks Angelo Russo from training class. It was so good to see her. We had a ball. It was her birthday and I took her out to eat after we got off. Its so good to be back. Not really gonna sweat the carry on policy. Just going to use common sense......The only thing that really bothers me is that we are the last to see this and the pax are going to scream and yell.....well, they didn't say anything to me at the gate.....what do you mean I can't take this on? oh well.......we will see.

Message from Pam on Tue Aug 12 12:09:13 2003

Babysitted the airport yesterday (ready reserve) so I had a chance to hear all the complaints about this company!! You know there is no such thing as a perfect job (was thinking to myself and good luck finding it!) I like what we do, sure there is the downside but isn't there a downside no matter what you do? Anyways didn't hear any problems with the new carryon policy in DTW but again most were flying while I was there. Did they give you guys a yellow badge that listed what the pax's can bring on? They gave us one that you can put with your badge it's nice to have. No word on anyone in our class leaving so far I think everyone is still around. Ran into Shaun and Lisa yesterday, they are doing good. Taking my girls to the Mall of America tomorrow for a day of school cloths shopping should be fun! Shaun would be good to ask about picking up trips on Reserve he does that alot. I don't understand how they can pay you only 3 hours on ready reserve when your there for 9. I know we aren't actually working but yet we are having to stay there all day. You get something like $1.00 plus and hour for the entire time then at your full pay for only 3hrs plus. It's not bad being on ready reserve just boring.

Message from Karen on Tue Aug 12 09:23:21 2003

Anxious to hear reports on the new carryon policy! When I deadheaded home yesterday, I introduced myself to the FA at the hotel, over continental breakfast. She was a bit unfriendly to say the least. Looking to get the conversation rolling, I asked if she was psyched up for the new policy, and she replied it was no big deal and would be no different. (!!!!) She says people never brought on roller bags before anyway. (Hello!? What planet have you been on lady??) As I sat in the waiting area at the CWA airport with all the pax, there was never any announcement about the carry-on policy but when we walked down the jetway, there was a young girl at the luggage rack stopping (or rather attempting to stop) everyone and planeside check the bags. She even told me to check my bag that holds my FA Manual, so I just took out my reading book for the flight and checked it. If anything I was glad to see her enforcing it, but the poor girl could hardly keep up with the flow of pax coming at her. I'm sure most stations are not having someone parked at the rack like that. There were a few stories in the crew room, like 23 pax on an A model, and 3 pax had to come off because they were overweight. And an FA who did not consider a backpack a bookbag and the pax got angry and dumped the contents and checked the empty bag. Any other reports? When I got back yesterday they sent me on a turn to St Louis (on the RJ) and I worked with Tim Evenson, union president - remember he spoke to us over lunch? So as I am still such a newbie on the jet, that was really nice to work with him. Wish it was a whole trip. Unusual situation: we were swapping planes at STL, CA said our plane was going to MEM. Sure enough, guess who the FA's were that we swapped with!! Nicole and Danita!!! When we got off the plane in STL I heard my name and there they were! We had time to talk for a little while, and Nicole had some ISSUES to ask Tim about, to be sure! Don't get her started about how you can get paid for just one hour if they call you in on reserve. Tim explained how that all works. If it's published in the Bid Pkt as less than 4 hrs, then it has to pay 4 hrs, but if you pick up a turn or whatever on reserve and it's less than 4 hrs, you get paid actual block time. Wow I never realized that! Do you guys get asked a lot if anyone from our class has quit yet? I do. We are all still around, aren't we? I guess we'll know for sure when the next bid packet comes out. TTFN

Message from Nadine on Mon Aug 11 15:37:33 2003

Hello All i have been of since tue :) i am back on reserve tomarrow Tue so are they using the dtw peopla alot?? so how is every one? mary ill call u we should go eat st xochis k? bye all gotta go take care happy flying :)

Message from Karen on Sun Aug 10 18:51:58 2003

Hi you guys, I'm in the MSP crew room right now, about to finish out the day by flying to CWA. When I got to the crew room this morning, Scheduling called me and said that I am deadheading home in the morning - someone else is doing day 2 & 3 of this trip. So false alarm about coming into DTW - but who knows what I'll actually be doing, I'm supposed to call scheduling of course when I get in, and then at that point they still own me for the day! Maybe I'll get to go home, maybe not! Can't wait for the new carry on policy to go into effect tomorrow. We had to bump 3 pax on my last flight for weight and that's BEFORE the change! There are FA's here giving us all little "cheat sheets" to put on our lanyards, and answering any questions. Laptop means the whole fricken bag the laptop is in, so the person with the little duffle bag, that can't take it on, will love that, won't they? OMG, should be interesting to say the least!

Message from Shaun on Sun Aug 10 16:12:34 2003

Hey Pam....those are the worst high speeds. I just did MQT/CMX last night. Isnt it nice how you open the door to your room and 20 moths and mosquitos fly in with you?? LOL. Montreal? Thats Mesabas built in excercise program. :) If you do ready reserve tomorrow I'll see ya. I have a 3 day that starts at 545. YUCK! Isnt reserve just great? Hey Nikki enjoy your green line!

Message from Pam on Sun Aug 10 14:16:21 2003

Hey all. This has been a crazy weekend! I did two high speeds one to Houghton/Hancock and stayed in the BATES HOTEL.... When we arrived the keys were on the desk (office unlocked and so were the rooms) First time asking for a room check! Then did the Montreal high speed.....took longer to walk from the gate to security then it did to fly there...what a walk. Talked to someone in the crew room about this new weight/balance thing my question is are they going to train these agents better and she said they were in the process of doing that now. It will be interesting! Karen Toledo isn't much of a town, my in-laws live there. I don't know where you are staying but I don't think the airport is near downtown. If I don't do another high speed tonight I will be on ready reserve tomorrow so will look for you.

Message from Nikki on Sun Aug 10 12:10:21 2003

Hey Everyone :) I just finished a three day in and out of Memphis, and ran into Danita last nite :) She is so sweet :) I have to be back at the airport tonite a 6pm, so I'm trying to get some laundry done right now, at my mom's. Tonite I'm going to DTW and then White Plains ...I'm a little nervous, because I've heard horror stories about the pax! Oh well! I will be in and out of DTW a lot on tuesday, so I will look for you all! I haven't read the new bulletin yet (just got it last nite at 1am), but it seems screwy...Keep us updated on what you hear, Shaun! Talk to you all soon! :) Nikki

Message from Karen on Sat Aug 9 08:05:23 2003

According to Crew Voice I start a 3 day tomorrow, with several stops in DTW on Mon & Tue - hoping to run into you DTW people! Have you guys overnighted in Toledo? I'll be there much of Tuesday, what's it like?

Message from SaDee on Fri Aug 8 21:26:57 2003

Greetings Everyone! I just haven't been taking time to check this awesome site! grrrr It's so good to hear all of your stories, adventures, problems, and love life news! Time has just been going by at a crazy pace! And when I get home from trips...I still feel that motion feeling too, it makes typing weird, I feel like I'm floating! I'm having so much fun with this job!! I love it!! This morning I was on the Saab then the Avro in the afternoon. I like both! Tomorrow I start a 4 day. I noticed the pairing up of the first 2 crew calls too. I sure don't want to get written up though...sheesh! So far I've had great crews to work with. Especially the pilots! They are sooooooooooo nice! Joseph!!!! I'm sorry you were out for a while and hurt! Me too had a bout with *** holly mother of all back pains!!!!!!!!!!**** I didn't claim workman's comp because I wasn't sure--but now I think it is from sitting so straight in the jump seats and the opening the opening of the Saab door movements. I thought it might have been from some stretching out I was doing in the hot tub in RHI. I did talk to my Mgr about it so she knows, and I've been to my doctor and chiropractor. It's still bugging me and it's been weeks! It was only really acute for a few days though--where you want to scream when you move. So I know what a nightmare it was for you Joseph! Take care everyone!!! I think we should have had more exercises in training to strenghten up our back muscles!! I really appreciate hearing from all of you!! Hope to get to SEE you more too!

Message from Karen on Fri Aug 8 17:29:54 2003

Thanks for the info Shaun. I got a call from Lona but, being as it's MY DAY OFF, I didn't answer it, but she left me a detailed message. Sounds like they have a telephone tree in action and everyone is getting a call from someone. So a book bag is a backpack, ok. No to duffel bags. Shaun you have the right approach I think. Just say fine and see that it gets added to the paperwork. This'll be interesting!! Also, this will make it harder to non-rev, right?

Message from Shaun on Fri Aug 8 16:54:36 2003

One other thing - Just so you guys know that if you need more hours for a month, you can pick up a trip from open time or the trip trade board on your days off. Before we would only get paid for that if we ended up going over 75 hours for the month. NOW with the contract any trips you pick up get added to the 75 regardless if you went over or not. Just a thought. I know we only have 10 days off a month as it is but I live on my own and I know that 75 isnt enough so picking up a trip is a good idea. Just make sure you meet the rest requirements and the 24hrs off in 7 days. SAFE FLYING ALL...ciao

Message from Shaun on Fri Aug 8 16:51:47 2003

Hey everyone...Tom Kaufmann is calling everyone to make sure they understand the new policy. I did ask him about the security deal with pax leaving the a/c to put a bag on the cart. That is fine as long as they done leave the jetbridge back into the gate area. I also asked about the backpack thing. That is strictly what it says. A backpack with straps and thats it....no duffle bags etc. Also there is a part in there that says if a pax needs to bring it on we just let the CSA and CA know that a bag needs to be added in the C1 cargo. So if there are 6 people that refuse to put their bag on the cart so be it. I am not fighting with people. I'll just tell the CSA add 6 bags and tell the CA as well. We are going to have alot more overweight flights with people having to give up more seats. This is a shame. This is all coming from the FAA due to the crash in Charlotte. The Usairways express plane that went into the hangar. The weights have all been changed. So we'll just have to do the best we can but I would not fight with the pax. Dont forget we have to fly with them in that metal tube for up to 2 hours! I like to keep them mello :)

Message from Pam on Fri Aug 8 09:46:00 2003

Hey...I too read the bulliten and thought the same thing. Do you know how long it would take to close that aircraft door ontime??? We had a problem simular to that last weekend. I had two pax board with items that were way to big to fit in the compartments and the CSA was standing right there at the bottom of the stairs when those pax boarded. There were people behind them trying to board I was telling them they will have to leave their bags on the cart so they had to walk back down backing all those pax up, plus I had a mom and baby seated in the exit row! Needless to say we did not close the door on time!! We definately have to have some sort of meeting on this. I'm sitting on my second day of reserve with no call first.

Message from Karen on Thu Aug 7 21:05:54 2003

Yes, Shaun that would be something that could be done, definitely. We'll have to "kick it around" to see what would be the best way to go about it. And, to your other post, YES, I just read that bulletin myself a couple of hours ago! I don't know what to think! But as things are now, some of the CSA's are so lax about the carry-ons, I was thinking this would elevate their responsiblity, but wait - I'm sure that's naive of me. It will fall on us in the end. And read the list of personal items that are exempt - book bags? I take that to mean backpacks, right? So one person cannot bring on a roller bag, but the next can bring on a backpack that is just as big, and might even have wheels. Hmmm... And if they are insistant due to the value or breakability of an item that isn't allowed as a carryon, we need to tell the captain, & the CSA, and then the actual weight of the item is calculated into the load data? Wow - this is really something. Shaun let me know what you find out. I'm not even sure I'm understanding it.

Message from Shaun on Thu Aug 7 19:32:31 2003

Hey Karen, I have an idea...since we dont have company meetings or conference calls for FA's, what do you think about having a message board for ALL mesaba FA's? I think it would be a good idea. Good place to get info from other FA's. People can talk about their issues etc... Not sure how it would work with all the employees? Maybe a way to register with a username and password? I am not experienced with web design, so I may be out of range here. What do you think?

Message from Shaun on Thu Aug 7 19:25:01 2003

Has anyone read the latest bulliten? This is crazy. OK flying the jet looks better than the saab now. This is ridiculous. Do you know how many people are going to put up a fight to leave their bags on the carry-on cart? Not only that but once a pax is onboard we cant let them leave to put a bag on the cart. Correct me if I am wrong but isnt that a security breach? All of the sudden they say the weight is a problem on the saab? So all of the previous full flights I have had on the saab were unsafe and we were flying on the edge???? I am irritated. I think we need FA meetings or conference calls for FA's. Maybe I making it a bigger deal than it is but I will certainly be calling Rene James on this one. Makes no sense. I also think we need to get paid for boarding. Its gonna be a mad house at the door of the saab. I HAVE to take this on....I can see it now. Can someone else input on this matter? Suggestions, comments? Anyone else think its wierd that they JUST NOW figured this out? I shouldnt be looking at the company website on my days off. LOL

Message from Karen on Wed Aug 6 17:00:06 2003

Nikki - WOW - have never had anything like that! That would flip me out to hear that Windshear warning! Also, whenever you have trouble with your messages getting cut off, if you want to post it in several pieces like you did, I will fix it. Might take a few days if I'm on a trip, but I can do it. I don't know why it doesn't take longer messages :-( I really enjoying hearing about all the different cities. Most of the cities you guys talk about I have never been to yet. And to think you are in the MSP crew room a lot, wow, everytime I walk in there I'm prowling for classmates, and usually striking out. One of these days I'll run into you Nikki!

Message from Pam on Wed Aug 6 16:13:01 2003

Will look for you Nikki. So far they don't have anything for me but it's the weekend and I'm sure they will be calling. I'll let you in the crew room!!! I think the reason they get so annoyed is that DTW is one of the airports with high security and everyone is so paranoid. Hope I run into you so you can tell be about your new love of your life. Yes Mary I'll go out with you guys we have to celebrate your birthday, let me know. Are you going to call Shaun?

Message from Nikki on Wed Aug 6 15:21:10 2003

Hey everyone :) I just finished a 3 day late monday nite...It was really fun. Its also really ironic that I will be flying with that same FA (Darleen) for 4 more trips this month! We met at training (whe was in recurrent at the time!) Good thing we get along so well! Otherwise, that could suck! I also got to fly with the FO I have a crush on, although seeing him again was great, I think it made me realize that I really do like Chris (the guy I'm actually dating) a lot :) Oh, also, we had a missed approach going into Kansas City! It was actually quite exciting...We were already on a three and a half hour delay coming out of Memphis, due to weather. OK, so we were running super late, and the pax were getting quite pissy. I was in the front, and by the way, I love how you can hear the computer counting down your feet above the runway (300, 100, 50, 40 etc.). So I was listening for that as usual :) Well, after 100, all of the sudden it said "WINDSHEAR, WINDSHEAR". For a split second, I though it just must be a glitch, certainly not the real thing...next thing I know the engines are at full force, and we are climbing straight back up into the air, after almost touching down! the Captain said he hasn't had that happen to him in at least 2 years! It was really kinda cool, although a bit scarry. Needless to say, the pax were very friendly and grateful, after that experience! Ok, enough of my rambling stories...I start the same trip early tomorow morning. Also, I saw Nicole in the Memphis crew room! She was doing great. And, we both had overnights in BHM that evening! Too bad my crew didn't get in 'till almost 1am, and she was out at 6am the next morning :( Oh well...Birmingham is a great city. I love the hotel! And the Mill Eatery and Brewery, on 20th st. has the BEST Caesar salad (and its the cheapest thing on the menu, too!). Well, hope to see you all soon! I haven't had much luck running into people lately, in the MSP crewroom :( But. I am going to be around detroit, the evenings of sunday and monday, the 10th and 11th, and a LOT on Monday, the 12th! So look for me :) It sucks that us non-DTW people can't get to the crewroom without "piggybacking" (which I hate doing, 'cause people seem to be annoyed...) Anyways, have fun, and talk to you later!

Message from Mary on Wed Aug 6 13:30:48 2003

Nadine call me. Of course we are going clubbing. 586-873-5841. Maybe Shaun and Mom will join us. Oh and my birthday is 9 days away. Yeah me!!!

Message from Pam on Wed Aug 6 11:30:26 2003

what a funny story Karen!! We flew an old B model coming back to MI on our last day and the galley cart hinges (those little clips that hold it in place) one was broken so everytime we took off the cart would hit the side of the compartment....brakes didn't work either! All of the sudden there would be this loud bang and the pax's would all jump in their seats and look out the window. I was going to make an announcment about it before we took off but was having too much fun scaring them!!!!!! Yes we did walk to the mexican resturant through the woods it was a nice place to eat. The service wasn't all that great but we were hungry and tired and she did manage to get our order right >>>> eventually. There is a nice resturant downtown BJI where we ate called something Brewery House, was very good and the atmosphere was nice. I'll try and find out the name of it so the next time you guys are there you can try it. There was a write up in our newspaper about the new Pellston airport that we fly too in northern Michigan. They are having their grand opening this Friday. It's so cool looking it looks like a huge log cabin with a nice fireplace, couches in front of it and a lookout balcony.

Message from Nadine on Wed Aug 6 11:13:55 2003

hey every one :) i'm so glad to hear everyone doing so well i wish every oney else in class would get on here! i love my job but i hope the reserve thing don't kill me lol we all need to gt together somehow before recurrent mary are we ver going clubbin? wanna go to ny and boston to see my CUTE HISPANIC friends my frenz can meet their frenz and we can all be frenz BYE 4 NOW!!!!!!

Message from Karen on Wed Aug 6 09:46:33 2003

Just got back from a 3 day - ran into SaDee briefly. It was good to see her again. Pam, you were here! I'm so glad you got to see Duluth and that you had time to go down to Canal Park at the waterfront! And yes, isn't the Brainerd hotel nice? I had a long layover there too. Did you walk to the Mexican restaurant? That's the only problem with that hotel, no restaurant (yet - looks like they are trying to get one). I was wondering about walking to a restaurant in the winter or pouring rain, and a pilot told me that the company will pay for a cab in that situation. This was a good trip - hit it off with the FO as soon as we learned we could talk "computers" to each other - he wants me to help him design a web site that they can use to track the pilots locations in case of a strike, so that they know where everyone is, because the union would be responsible for getting them all home. I had the dubious pleasure of flying the OLDEST Saab still flying: N27XJ, and believe me, it looks it. Even the FA Service Panel is unlike anything you've ever seen. Loud! OMG, does it have a lot of rattles! But I also flew in the WORST Saab flying: N119XJ. The pressurization was deferred! So they gave it to us for 4 short legs because we could just keep it low (!). They had to do really gradual ascents and descents so that the pax ears wouldn't pop too much. But that wasn't even the worst part! The duct work to the air gaspers was leaking so that air was blasting out of every seam of the unit, up and down the plane. First a lady calls me over to feel it and asks me if that is normal - (I'm thinking, define normal) - I just said it was nothing to worry about, even though I didn't understand yet what was causing it. Then the people way in the back were just freaking out because now moisture was condensing and spitting out (rain) and then it got colder so now it was freezing (snow). So we had wind, rain, and snow in the cabin, all in a short 30 minute flight! That's all 4 seasons when you add in the heat before we took off. When I walked to the back to do the compliance check before landing the air leaking out over 8A blasted me so hard that all my hair went to the left side of my head, all the pax laughed and said, SEE!? Oh what fun! I have four days off now (3 plus the one they had to give me for jr man). Joseph, I'm so excited that you are coming back! I hope our paths cross soon.

Message from Pam on Tue Aug 5 17:42:11 2003

Hey Joseph glad to hear that your coming back.

Message from Joseph on Tue Aug 5 14:22:39 2003

Hey Guys! Just wanted to let you all know that I report back to work on Friday August 8th and I must say that I am looking forward to it! I have been out exactly 5 weeks with my back and I am doing very well. I sure hope everything comes back to me!!!!!!!! Thanks for all your support.

Message from Mary on Tue Aug 5 00:15:34 2003

So I received the pleasure of flying with Renee James to City Falls. Everything went well and I did not have to have my manual memorized afterall. She said I did a great job. How could I have done anything but. As for my gate agent...I am going on day seven of the three day rule. Now I am getting frustrated. Maybe he lost my number and all I can say is he better have a really creative way of getting it back. I may not have implants, but I am way cuter than those girls on the cover of FHN magazine. Plus I can learn Portuguese.

Message from Pam on Mon Aug 4 22:35:51 2003

Shaun we overblocked an hour on this trip woo hoo...total time for this trip 25 hours!chi ching........

Message from Pam on Mon Aug 4 22:30:18 2003

Hey all just got back from a 4 dayer....what fun, we had a blast! We had an all female crew, the agents started calling us Charlie's Angels! They sent us all over Minna"soda" BJI, BRN, Duluth which has a nice resturants on the water. Branard was great, they now put us up in this new Harthorne hotel which is very nice with a pool and hot tub, it was like being on a girls weekend vacation shopping, site seeing Northern Minn is very nice. Was hoping I would run into you minni people, everytime we would come back to MSP I would run into the crew room hoping to see you maybe next time. Took some pic's and will send them on to you Karen to post when I get them developed.

Message from Shaun on Sat Aug 2 17:56:56 2003

Hey Karen - real quick before i go on for my high speed.... The block time is the actual scheduled time for the flights. The credit time is figured by an average time that flight actually takes. That averages in actual flights for a certain period of time. Not sure how far they go back. The time you get paid is the greater of the two. "Block or better is what you get for the trip" if you under block you get the credit time. If you overblock on a trip you get the actual time. It works out in favor of the crews. Also keep this in mind. Say you have a 3 day trip and you overblock 30 mins on a leg. That would mean you get 30 mins plus the block for that trip. BUT, if you cancel at anytime on that trip you become time available and lose ALL of the overtime. So its a nice break to cancel especially on your last turn but you lose all the overtime. I hope this answered your question. You end up getting the better of the two or the actual time if you went over. Off to BTV....CIAO

Message from Karen on Sat Aug 2 16:07:27 2003

Shaun, maybe you (or someone else) can explain to me why does an assignment sometimes have less credit time than block time? Don't we have to get paid at least the actual block time? I understand more credit time, as with a high speed, but I don't understand how you can have less credit time. Thanks!

Message from Shaun on Fri Aug 1 23:10:29 2003

Yes always call when you are done. I didnt call one time. Got out to my car and they called me, had to go all the way back. No don't worry about it after a high speed. They can't use you anyways. Most of the time if they have something for you they will get a hold of you through the agents on your last turn or through ACARS. But good idea to call before you leave. ciao

Message from Karen on Fri Aug 1 22:47:46 2003

Shaun, thanks for the all info.. I too have been checking the crew voice, and I learned they have me down for a 3 day starting Sunday, but have yet to be called for it. And I have been warned by my manager to not go by that because it is not for sure, but it is nice to know what's probably going to happen. Another thing I learned from my manager, that I do not remember learning at training is that you are always supposed to call scheduling when you finish an assignment - don't just go home, because they can put you right out on another flight if you are still within your 14 hr duty day, etc etc. Do you think we need to call at the end of a high speed too??? I forgot about it this morning but my duty period was at 13.5 so I don't see what I could've done. Were you guys aware we are always supposed to call in at the end of an assignment?

Message from Shaun on Fri Aug 1 20:09:33 2003

OK Nikki...who is this boy you're talking about? You can't leave that and not give details! :) Karen - Yes when you get the pay report sheet next month it should fall under the JR MAN calumn. I myself though would fill out a pay sheet for it just in case. They are in your crew room. You just need to know the block out and block in times. Fill it out and give it to your manager or comat it to payroll. Do it quick though because the month is over and they are already working on those paychecks. Hey its only 4 hours but you deserve it. Well I didnt think they would use me so quick but I called crew voice and they put a BTV high speed on my line tomorrow night. Gotta love those high speeds. Thats another thing. You can use crew voice to listen to your assignments for the month. Listen the night before and see if there is something there. Sometimes they put things on your line but dont call you until the day of the trip. It isnt officially yours though until they call and notify you. It helps out alot especially on reserve days immediately after your days off, since they wont call you on a day off. Unless if course they try to junior man you! If you guys have any questions about reserve or you run into problems with scheduling and you want to make sure its something you can grieve or fight you guys can call or e-mail me anytime. Just in case you dont have it. My cell is 734-355-3312 and my e-mail is Flyboy914@sbcglobal.net You will learn alot this month when it comes to scheduling and the rest requirements so call if you run into any problems or have any questions. Reserve can be rough and I have been through it, just hang in there. Fly Safe and HAVE FUN! :)

Message from Nikki on Fri Aug 1 17:07:26 2003

Hey Everyone :) Ok, I am retarted...IAfter I posted the shirt question, I decided to really look at the tags: Machine wash cold... :) Oh well, thanks for the advice. Mary, that is so exciting! Congrats!I honestly didn't think reserve was too bad (since I spent nost of July on it). I am excited to start my greenline this month, though :) I go to MEM and BHM tomorow...Should be fun. Also, Marleen, I get to fly with my boy, mid-month! I'm so excited...I'll make him fall in love with me, I WILL!! j/k ! Anyways, hopefully see you all soon! :) Nikki

Message from Karen on Fri Aug 1 13:11:00 2003

Shaun, I know! I took a lot of teasing for that from the crew and others on the shuttle! "How can you get Jr Manned if you don't answer your phone?" - and - "Didn't you have a glass of wine in your hand when they called?" etc etc... But as I explained, it really worked out ok in this case for me, but yes - lesson learned, for future reference! Shaun, how do I make sure I get the time and a half? On that summary sheet that we get a few weeks from now?

Message from Shaun on Fri Aug 1 13:01:56 2003

Hey guys - Well I successfully flew 135 hours this month without getting sick. Did it once before and called off the next month cuz I got sick. Anyways. Hey Karen, about that junior man...don't answer your phone on your days off! I had a problem with Janelle in scheduling as well. I had a Montreal high speed and the plane broke so it turned into a day off. They owe me one for August but, since it was an "extension" I was considered junior manned on the third day and they had to pay me time and a half for it. Well Janelle needs to read the contract because I had to get Mary our manager on the phone, so the three of us could talk. Pulled out the manual and talked, boom done...she was wrong! So you should also get time and half for the high speed as well. Make sure you get it. Since we are all on reserve now and who knows how long, make sure you guys read the "scheduling" and "reserve" sections of the contract. Scheduling will take advantage if you dont. They can actually go against it as long as they are following the FAR's. Which says we only need 8 hours of rest. The contract says 11 in domicile (they arent allowed to contqact you during those hours either) So make sure you guys know the contract and what they can and can't do. There are a few people in scheduling that arent too nice. I used to call them "screw scheduling" LOL So just watch them, they are sneaky and dont answer the phone on your day off either, unless you really want to work. Hey I need a vacation, anyone up for one?? :) OK well 46 hours in 6 days has worn me out, so I am outta here. Safe flying everyone and good luck with reserve. Just expect the worst. They might not use us much starting in september. Major cuts in flying, I think due to the pilot negotiations and a possible strike. Uh..oh See ya guys

Message from Karen on Fri Aug 1 10:49:05 2003

Pam, yes I was caught off guard, for some reason thinking that since it was July (green line month) I didn't have to be afraid of being Junior Manned, but really if you read the contract it doesn't say anything about if you are reserve or not, just if you are junior. So I answered my phone knowing it was scheduling and thinking, "oh good I'll find out what I'm doing tomorrow", and she says "we are in a junior man situation" -- whoops. But actually it turned out great because Lisa did get me a day off, one that I really wanted as my husband has invited more than 20 people to dinner on the 9th! We have a garden with sweet corn and the idea is that the corn will hopefully be in, it's a bunch of his relatives :-) so he is very happy that I will for sure be home now. Plus I will be paid time and a half, so that works! Still kills me though that scheduling was not going to give me another day off in return. Lisa was so helpful and supportive on that, I mean after all, come on, you take away a person's day off, it's only fair you give one back. Who's doing who the favor? So Lisa had a thank you card in my mailbox when I got there last night thanking me for my "positive attitude" and helping out, and letting me know that I now have the 9th off. It's nice to feel that the managers are there to help and support us, and I definitely feel that way. Nadine, I got the pics you sent me, I'll get them posted today!

Message from Nadine on Thu Jul 31 17:24:26 2003

that was sum ting wong sorry

Message from Nadine on Thu Jul 31 17:23:43 2003

Oh i forgot.... I got my dumb pax question of the year this lady asked me" why aren't the pine trees as green as they usually are?" as if i would know hello? like i pay attention to the trees while flying i don't even have a window on the saab. lol hope u gotta a laugh out of that hey another one.... Did u hear about the chinese couple that had a retarded baby??? They named him SUN TING WONG!!! get it? something wrong hahahahahahahah bye

Message from Nadine on Thu Jul 31 17:20:37 2003

Hello all :) I am in South Carolina visiting my MeMe and PaPa. Hey nikki watch out washing your shirt i washed mine in the washer and left it in too long and the button rusted :( oh well ya'll bet i'm wearing it lol Mary good girl did he call yet i haven't seen any cuties yet where are they??? i sure have been looking so how is every one? I'm soooooo scared of reserve i enjoyed having a schedule now we will see what life is really like huh? miss you all take care happpy flying be safe

Message from Pam on Thu Jul 31 16:31:24 2003

How can they make you Junior manned if you don't start reserve until tomorrow? Is it because of a high speed? I don't get it. I know that they can call at anytime for this even on your day off but that was kindof crappy. At least it was a high speed on the jet, should be easy for you.

Message from Karen on Thu Jul 31 14:21:10 2003

Oh my gosh, I just got Junior Manned for tonight! Get this-- she (Janelle in Scheduling) said she didn't have to give me a day off in return! She said it was because she can take me down to 10 days off, and you only get another day off if it takes you below 10. For my July green line the minimum is 11 (I had exactly 11), so I was feeling a bit taken advantage of here. I called my mgr, didn't get her, but did get the other MSP mgr, Lisa (remember her? she taught a module to us, blonde hair) and she was SOOO nice and said they should for sure compensate me with a day off in August so she is working on that for me. :-) And the other thing about this assignment... it's on the RJ (high speed to Regina)! I am finally going to work on the RJ! Good thing I had my refresher course yesterday as a pax! However I would hardly say that I saw procedures being followed, if you get my drift!

Message from Pam on Thu Jul 31 09:32:16 2003

Hey - Karen glad you made it to OKC it's a nice place for a short visit. Theres a couple good trips in the bid packets going there would love to have it so that I could visit my friend. Mary - Let me know when we can meet you may be too busy with your "gatekeeper" friend!

Message from Karen on Thu Jul 31 08:24:37 2003

Nikki, the uniform lady told me we can wash our shirts, just be sure to tumble dry because the metal button might rust if you drip dry (or you can tape the button or something to keep it from rusting if you do have to drip dry). My daughter and I had a good mini trip to OKC. Everything worked out great except that the pool was drained for maintenance! But that was ok, we went downtown and saw Bricktown and the Memorial (thanks for the advice on that Pam!). We went on the boat ride on the canal - in a couple more years the canal area at Bricktown will be more developed and it will be even better. From there we rode the trolley (25 cents!) to the Memorial, and it was so moving to see that. It was fun to see the RJ again and remember what it looks like -LOL- since I am sure not seeing it while working! Sitting (and eating!) in first class is always a nice touch too! Back to reserve tomorrow!

Message from Mary on Thu Jul 31 08:14:58 2003

Pam we do need to go out. As for the gate agent...I know it has been a little over 24 hrs. since I gave him my number but come on, he just needs to hurry up and call me. I think he is doing that ridiculous 3-day rule.

Message from Pam on Wed Jul 30 16:54:47 2003

Ok Mary now I have to find him!!! Shaun told me about this guy but haven't seen him yet. Was great seeing you told Shaun we need to meet for your birthday (ok so I'm old but I can still Salsa right????)

Message from Mary on Wed Jul 30 15:50:33 2003

I just had to let all of you know and those of you who already know...I FOUND MY GATE AGENT!!! I am so happy. For those who do not know I met this gate agent one day. He boarded my plane and to make a long story short...I liked him. As he was closing the door on my way to Burlington I was being nice and I told him that I would see him later..Well he asked me if I was sure about that, and I said ummm I think so. That was a month ago and after one long month of searching every gate along the C and B concourses of Detroit in hopes of seeing him again (on my long breaks I searched) I would like to announce that yesterday I found him. I went and talked to him (actually I asked him why he wasn't boarding my plane and then I told him I'd see him again. He asked why it took me so long and I told him because I was working. Anyways he asked what I doing for the rest of the summer and I told him working here. He then asked for my nummber so we could "hang out". The best part is...You know how I love latins? His parents are from Brazil, he has direction...(he does not intend to work the gate for the rest of his life), He is good looking and I csan deal with his last name. Oh and I do not know what attracts me to Shauns... but that is his name. Look for him if you are ever in Detroit.(Shaun Santos)The only thing now is I hope that he is not a typical guy and does the whole 3-day rule. That is my gossip for the week and I am estatic.

Message from Pam on Wed Jul 30 09:33:40 2003

Hi everyone! Off for a couple of days before "reserve reality" starts in, had a great green line! Shaun and I had a good time flying together (work with me Shaun....focus) ran into a lot of classmates, was like a mini reunion. PIT has a nice airport with a mini mall, we had about a 2hr. layover there. Nikki I wash my blouses and have never had a problem.

Message from Nikki on Tue Jul 29 16:30:43 2003

Hey everyone :) How are you?! I just got my green line for August :) I'm flying a LOT! (which i wanted, of course!) Also, I have to do ready reserve tomorow, starting at 5:30 am...so if any of you are coming to CVG tomorow, make sure to stop in the crew room (or call my cell...513-264-7796, I'll probably be out wandering around!) Also, I have a burning question for everyone: I know our dress shirts say "dry clean only", but has anyone put them in the regular laundry at all? I know I can't really afford dry cleaning as much as I should, and was wondering if I could get away with washing in the machine! But I don't want to ruin them, either! Please let me know soon! My shirts thank you! Oh, and don't get too excited (or jealous, Nadine!)..the guy I'm dating is not a pilot, or anything (although ironically his dad flies for Delta)! He is really gre

Message from Karen on Mon Jul 28 21:42:01 2003

This was the best trip ever for running into classmates! I ran into Pam and Shaun twice - once in MSP on Saturday and again in DTW today! Sunday I ran into Marleen, and today (as you can see by her post) I ran into Nadine in the crew room at DTW. She says "I'm posting on the message board right now!" The FO I flew with said I know more people than he does. LOL. Pam and Shaun were having a good time working together, and we are all jealous of what a fun trip that must be! Shaun was nice enough to help me get listed for a non-rev trip to OKC with my daughter. Leaving tomorrow for just one night, everyone says it's kind of a nice place to stay with some things to do, and the hotel will give me a good rate, and most importantly: the flights aren't full! Another highlight of the trip was Saturday morning having 2 observers from the new hire class on my flights to Waterloo and back! They were so nice - one CVG and one DTW. That was fun to have them on board! Talk to you guys later - no more green line :-( back to reality!!

Message from Nadine on Mon Jul 28 12:04:47 2003

Hello all :) Miss you all !!!! a reunion set it up i am soooo there i am haiving fun i love my new luxurious fa lifestyle you? seen heather, angie, lisa, betsy, and shaun this week they are all good. i had my 2nd meeting this morning they are keeping me aboard i guess. nikki u r lucky i found no cuties yet. HEY GUYS KAREN JUST WALKED IN!!!!!!!! she says hello. shes here on a turn.i gotta go i'm gonna talk to karen i guess more of us(classmates are here too:)) call me people miss ya 313-779-4631 nicole i'm still talking to skut hope to see him soon

Message from Mary on Sun Jul 27 21:39:05 2003

Karen thanks for the tip. I guess 23 is not that important of an age, but you know how it is... I am young, single, and I do not have any kids...I just wanted to celebrate.

Message from Marleen on Sun Jul 27 21:02:16 2003

Well Karen may not have been able to meet up with Pam, but I did get a chance to see her! I'm in MSP for a few hours before going to DSM, again. But this time I have my bag! As far as overnight suggestions, BHM is fun. Free trolly, museum, nice pool... OKC is also a cool town! Who knew? Bricktown is done up to look like the San Antonio riverwalk with ourdoor restaurants and bars on the canal. OUr crew went out last night to a brew pub and listened to a '70s band play all the old dance favorites (Celebration, We Are Family, you know them all.) We danced and drank and had a blast. Who knew OKC was so alive in a Saturday night? Ran into Dora at MEM and she was doing well. Safe flying, all!!

Message from Pam on Fri Jul 25 09:40:50 2003

Karen we get back to DTW around 2 so if you can go to the crew room and meet us there. It's off of Concorse C between the Motown Store and a gift shop. If you arrive at any of the C gates follow the signs to C1 and you will see the C Concorse. If you arrive at any of the B gates just take the escalators down and go around you will see a security officer in front of the crew room hope Shaun and I get to see you. Any CVG crew working Saturday? We will be there between 10:30-12:30, flt# 3501

Message from Karen on Fri Jul 25 08:49:11 2003

Thanks for those suggestions Pam! I'll check the loads and hopefully it will work out! And about Monday, from DTW I do MQT-CMX-MSP to get home. Mary - I just had my 1st routine probationary meeting with my manager, and she gave me a good tip about the reserve schedule. She said you can "trade reserve days with yourself" IF scheduling will approve it of course. In other words if it's the middle day of a 5 day stretch, then they probably wouldn't approve it, and of course if a switch puts you working more than 6 days straight it wouldn't get approved, but maybe you can make it work somehow by trading one or two days with yourself. Nikki, I would love a reunion soon too!! Do you think we'd ever be able to coordinate all our schedules?? It's worth a try!

Message from Pam on Fri Jul 25 07:41:21 2003

Karen my suggestion would be Ottawa, Canada or Portland, MA. Both meet the critera and it's a great time of year to go. We didn't have a long stay there in Portland but what I did see was so pretty. The pilot was telling me about the downtown area and all the resturants on the bay and of course if you like lobster thats where to go. Hope you and your daugther have a good time. Mary I didn't get my golden day either and it looks like a very busy August according to my scheudule ......Shaun I told you it's the calm before the storm!! Nikki a reunion would be fun Karen are you flying out of DTW back to MSP? I am working Monday and if I'm back around that time will look for you just need to know what flight number you will be on.

Message from Nikki on Fri Jul 25 01:22:19 2003

I really think we need a reunion soon! I miss you all so much, and think about youu all the time! Am I a big weirdo?! Well, It's the truth! Love you, and talk to you all soon! :) Nikki

Message from Mary on Thu Jul 24 23:35:56 2003

Okay, so I am anooyed. I only requested my birthday for a golden day and naturally I did not get it off. Now I am ticked.

Message from Karen on Thu Jul 24 21:31:12 2003

I need some advice from you guys! My daughter and I want to non-rev somewhere next week when we both have a couple days off, but I don't know where to go! Do you guys have any suggestions? Criteria would be: don't need a car (easy shuttle or cab ride to hotel), something to do or see even if it's just a neat downtown to walk around or even a nice pool at the hotel - or better yet a beach! I think we'll stick to Mesaba cities so we have the priority and it's cheaper, but flights are so full these days, I don't know how hard this will be to pull off. Any suggestions? Pam, I hope I see you this weekend when you are in MSP, and guess what, I will be doing a turn in DTW on Monday! First time! I'll be there roughly 1:00 - 3:20 pm, hope to run into some of you DTW people. And yes, I have seen SaDee quite a few times actually! She's doing great. Nikki, I also cast my vote that you elaborate on your news :) !

Message from Pam on Thu Jul 24 20:54:57 2003

Hey guys! Just got back from visiting a friend in OKC, what a great trip espicially the "free transportation." Nikki who is the guy? You can't just tell us your dating someone what and leave it! GIVE DETAILS!!!! The BRA means reserve called scheduling and asked. I have a lot of reserve days... should be fun! Thanks Karen for the feed back I'm glad I'm not the only one who feels like I'm still flying when I get home. Going to MSP this weekend hope to see you. Has anyone heard or seen Sadee?

Message from Marleen on Thu Jul 24 13:18:18 2003

Girl, you can't just SAY you're dating someone and NOT give us details!! Who, and what city did you meet him in? LOL! Hope he's nice! Did everyone get the GDOs they wanted for AUG? I got my GDO PLUS the day before off-four days in a row! Does BRA mean Reserve? I'm gone on another 4 day tomorrow-same cities as the rest of the month. Nikki knows what I'm talking about. Maybe I'll actually work this trip-didn't do much on the last 2 because of weather and the tornado in MEM. Be safe everyone!

Message from Nikki on Thu Jul 24 12:14:43 2003

Hey everyone :) Its is so great to read your messages! Nicole, you crack me up! I love it! I finished a 4 day on monday nite, and it was great. The other FA (mary gregory) was super nice and funny. She just got her trasfer to Mem, though :( Nicole and Joseph, you'll love her! I'm happy, because I really feel like I know the RJ now, and can do my job effectively :) (ie- not scared anymore!) Although our trip was 4 days, we only had 1 day with more than 3 legs! So it was really nice and relaxed, and since I'm on reserve, and just probably getting paid for the minimum 75 hours anyways, it really didn't matter about the flight times, to me. Marleen, I also overnighted in XNA (fayetteville, Ark.), OKC and DSM. The holiday inn in des moines is SO awesome! The pool and hot tub are great, and the rooms are really clean. Also, I am dating someone! Well, I hope you all are having as much fun as I am, and I wish you continued fun and success! Can't wait to see you all in the airports! luv, Nikki

Message from Karen on Wed Jul 23 21:21:03 2003

Well guys, I made it through a 3 day trip without so much as a single delay! Today was a long day - 8 flights, just 15 minutes short of the daily legal limit of block time. Pam, that is quite a story - I can't imagine how she can't get the jetway up to the plane! How frustrating that must have been for you! Sounds like you are always short staffed there in DTW - I must say I don't think I've ever had to wait more than once or twice for a jetway here in MSP, and even then it was only for a couple of minutes. Pam, I also wanted to tell you that I know what you mean about feeling like you are still on the plane when you get home - I get that too! Like right now my head is sort of floating, and it's like I still feel the vibration of the Saab! Sure is easy to get to sleep like that though! Take care everyone - I was so disappointed not to run into any classmates during this 3 day trip! Maybe next time: Sat-Sun-Mon. See ya.

Message from Pam on Sat Jul 19 21:51:01 2003

Forgot to tell you guys what happened today. I know I have mentioned that the CSA's are so short staff here in DTW, anyways we pull up to the gate and we wait and wait etc.. finally the Jetway agent comes and "tries" to put the jetway in place with no success she could not get it close enough to the plane. Now I'm no expert here but to me it doesn't seem too complicated to get a jetway to a door of an airplane, they appear to be designed to have a pretty good flexibility for that. I mean how do you miss getting it close to the door of a airplane???? When I opened the door and saw this hug gap between the jetway and the plane I look at her and say "no way this isn't going to work. She then says she will have to call Wayne County to get the ok for us to let the pax's off using the stairs cause they have to go through this security door that only employees are allowed to use. The Pilot had to personally talk to them so he bolts down the stairs to go talk to them and in the mean time I had 28 pax's all with connecting flights, 8 that had 20 minutes to get to their connections, one that needed a wheelchair and a 35 week pregnant woman that looked like I needed to start boiling some water and get the rubber gloves on from the Medical box. The Pilot was cool about it but could tell that he was so annoyed.

Message from Pam on Sat Jul 19 19:33:42 2003

Hey guys.....so good to read everyone's message.. Oh Joseph you poor guy and don't worry you won't loose your job you just concentrate on getting better ok? I e-mailed you but never heard back did you get it? Just got in from a 3 day and am very tired, those 5 stops per day make my legs feel like I'm still on the plane. Do you guys feel like that when you have a long day? It takes me a while when I get home to feel like "I'm on the ground." Had a great crew actually so far I have been pretty lucky everyone has been so nice. We had a long lay over in TRI yesterday got in around noon so sat by the pool all afternoon was fun! The hotel there is pretty nice with a nice pool. Nichole you crazy thing you....was in MEM for about an hr Friday morning but you guys weren't around, thats a nice airport and the agents there were really nice. Karen I thought I had the black cloud but not anymore! OMG three days in a row....?? Saw Shaun in the crew room when I got back this evening can't wait to fly with him next weekend we are going to have a great time! Thanks Marlene for saying that all I know is that when we do our bidding "less is best" The system can't handle alot of HIGH/MED/LOW so put in the basic days of the week you want off and see if it works. Nadine haven't seen you since OE hope to see you soon glad to hear your having fun. Joseph I'll be calling you, I miss you!

Message from Joseph on Sat Jul 19 15:23:39 2003

Nichole. I am reading your whole email and then I about DIED!!!!!!!!!!! I laughed so hard. I needed that soooooooooooo much..

Message from Nicole on Sat Jul 19 15:00:16 2003

Hi everyone! My RJ OE was fine I spent it in FT. Walton beach. My saab OE was a drag she never put me in the jumpseat ans therefore I didn't get signed off until another trip. I enjoy the job. I don't like the idea of thr pre-departure drink for first class on a full flight. I've been trying to use the Jedi mind trick on the PAX's, "You want water, you want water", the response " I'll take a screwdriver please". Some of the pilots are extremely nice and patient with you some of them could care less. I'm not feeling all of the love that they said we would get in class from these guys. Why is it so hard to decide if you want a granola bar or pretzels? Lady, it's a #@&*(*% granola bar, do you want it or not. I had an overnite in Detroit and Haether picked me up and took me to dinner and showed me downtown Detroit. I see why everyone prefers the saab, you're on your own not having to hear anyone say "I got the back, I'm more senior than you". I met Cedric the Entertainer in the Detroit airport. Oklahome city has a nice mall right behind the hotel( the hotel doesn't have stairs, but they have a mall) I'm enjoying flying but I'm tired. Most of my trips are 2 and 3 day trips and 1 four day. Does nayone else want into the crew room happy and saying hello and good morning to everyone and they look at you as if to say "Yeah whatever new chick"? Starbucks has become my favorite place to shop! I'm glad everyone's doing well. Nadine from now on when you leave me a note in my box please date it you powerpuff girl! I'm signing off now I have to take a dose of penicillin for my bronchitis. Oh yeah, the ballknobbers and the fudruckers are looking for a lead singer it appears that their lead singer hurt his back on a plane, holler back if you know someone who could use the part time gig. Have fun and be safe. 901-502-4337

Message from Marleen on Fri Jul 18 18:25:00 2003

Karen, you poor kid! Hang in there!! Well, the good news about DSM is that the Holiday INN is nice. We get a $6 discount on breakfast, there is an indoor pool, hot tub, sauna, and exercise room, and I understand the shuttle will take you downtown to a mall/other places. I didn't venture out, but the stay was okay. I'm actually off this weekend (yeah!), but my husband is doing National Guard stuff in D.C. (boo) :( In OKC, there is a mall right behind the hotel, and the hotel has an outdoor pool. Far from anything else, though, unless you like country and western kareokee. Safe flying all!

Message from Karen on Fri Jul 18 18:00:33 2003

Oh my gosh, I am officially the "black cloud" --- it happened again!! Third night in a row! I had 3 high speeds this week, and on ALL THREE of them the aircraft was grounded after the first city, and unable to fly to the second! Last night we were all set to leave ABR early even, and we had an aborted take off (technically it was aborted because we had been positioned on the active runway ready to go), but in actuality we never attempted the take off because of an oil indicator light. So the pilot comes on and says "Ladies and Gentlemen, as you can see we have pulled off the runway, etc etc" and I of course could not see that from my jumpseat, and I thought OMG this is like being on Candid Camera! He says "we're talking to maintenance, and perhaps it's just a problem with the indicator" but a few minutes later we taxi'd back to the terminal and shut down. Unreal! When I told the pilots my experiences the 2 previous nights they decided it was my fault, and even told dispatch so: "it's not my fault, it's the flight attendant". Well anyway, to not make this too long, our leg to Watertown got cancelled, we stayed over in ABR - was to be for just a few hours but crew scheduling called me at midnight and said they were taking us off CDO and onto "rest" so we didn't have to be at the airport till 9:00. That was nice, but as luck would have it, I was now realizing that a headache I had been experiencing was now not "just a headache" and let's just say without getting too detailed here that if I was on a plane instead of my hotel room this morning I would have needed a sic sac 3 times. Not fun. I called scheduling and told her I didn't know if I could work, but she told me it looked like we were only going to MSP, not Watertown too, so I toughed it out. Luckily only 6 pax and I felt better by the time we actually took off at around 10:30. I was just so nervous about getting sick during the flight. Turns out, the mechanics had to DRIVE a NEW PROPELLER to Aberdeen (5 hours) overnight to fix the plane! Well I'm sure Mesaba is glad that I have a couple days off now. Next up I have a 3 day starting Monday, I'll try to not do too much damage!

Message from Joseph on Fri Jul 18 15:04:16 2003

Hey Guys, Just wanted to say hello. I read about all of your stories and I miss it so much. I really can't wait till I get back. Hopefully soon. Karen, thanks for your message. I appreciate it. I went to call you but accidentially erased your number by mistake. I really do appreciate everyone who has called or emailed me. THANKS FOR THE SUPPORT. IT MEANS THE WORLD TO ME!!!!!!

Message from Nadine on Thu Jul 17 22:16:02 2003

Hello all :) Sorry i haven't been on. But I am having soooooo much fun. I love my new life. I have seen-Mary-shaun-heather-Angela-Dora-pam (mom)-Kimmy and thats it they all seem to be having fun. A reunion sounds fun. Salasa? Pam I wanna go. Hey my friend Apryl Edwards is in the next class she leaves on sun :) MSP look for her she'll be based in DTW good luck stay strong miss and love you all xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo Nadine

Message from Marleen on Thu Jul 17 20:08:17 2003

Hey all, thank your for your support and suggestions about my little tiff. I think Pam said it best: what we do isn't that difficult, so why mess it up! To his credit, the other FA did get nicer as the flight went on. And I never heard that about combining the two crew calls. Must be a MSP/DTW/MEM thing. In CVG, they just don't do it. I have found that I tell the other FA that I like to do the 1st call right before we close the door. That gives me a "pause and assess" moment to ensure we are ready (bins are closed!), calm the CSA down, and check with the FD. CYA, huh! Joseph, you hang in there!! Review your manual if you're that bored! Just kidding. You have our love and support! Karen, you must be tired! Sounds like some crazy adventures. And Pam, screw those other FAs who are mad at you! Better yet, tell them how you did it and make some friends :). I saw Nikki in the crew room before I left. She looked great in her uniform! Shaun and Pam, I'm jealous that you get to fly together later. Maybe Nikki and I will be so lucky. Gotta run off to DSM. Safe flying, and no more broken planes!!

Message from Karen on Thu Jul 17 11:10:23 2003

Ok what is the deal - 2 nights in a row my high speeds have been stranded at the first outstation! Last night we did eventually get to the 2nd stop but not until 1:30 am! As we landed in Bemidji the pilots thought "gee the runway looks dark" and turns out we had lost BOTH landing lights - quite rare to lose both at the same time. So we could not take off to Thief River Falls. Amazingly there was another high speed coming to Bemidji, so the plan was that we would take their plane when they got in, which we did, but they also had a 1 hour delay before leaving MSP for a maintenance delay & aircraft swap! I had to babysit the pax for about 30 min before we could deplane because there was no TSA there and they had to call and get the TSA out of bed to come in, just so our pax could get off (and back on). And of course I had the loud lady that was afraid of the Saab and insisted she should get free liquor because of the delay - and trust me she had already made a purchase during service so it's not like she needed it. And better yet we had the guy that needed the straight back wheelchair, and if you haven't had that with the Saab yet, you will see it's a real treat! So he had to be hauled off and back on in BJI, and of course then again in TVF. So I got to bed a little after 2:00 and set the alarm for 4:45. So tonight I have another 2 city high speed, and if we don't get out of Aberdeen on time tonight, I'm going to think it's me!!! Joseph - I'm going to give you a call later after I take my much needed nap. I'm so glad you are using this board to communicate with all of us as to your status. Hang in there!

Message from Joseph on Thu Jul 17 10:12:44 2003

Shaun thanks for the note. It certainly helped me feel better mentally. It is tough just sitting around and doing nothing. I will give you a call. I appreciate the support

Message from Shaun on Thu Jul 17 07:54:41 2003

Hey Joseph...Hang in there. NO you will not get fired. They can't terminate employment because of a work injury. Don't worry about that. Also it will all come back to ya when you start flying again. Just take it easy with your back. I know it must be touch just sitting or laying around all the time. I'm sorry bud. You can call me anytime if you want, my number is 734-355-3312. I start a 4 day here in an hour so I gotta get going. But dont worry about anything. You will be fine. Take care and call if you want. :)

Message from Joseph on Wed Jul 16 21:39:05 2003

Mary, whats the deal that your phone will not take any incoming calls? I have tried to call you a couple of times. Give me some feedback

Message from Joseph on Wed Jul 16 21:34:09 2003

Hey Guys- You will not believe this. I am still on workmans comp and out of work at least until August 4th. I am now in Physical therapy, doing MRI's and medication. THe doctor's found out that I twisted my back when I was pushing the ladder in on the Saab. somehow I just twisted the wrong way. Never before had any problem until July 2nd. It's been a bitch. Scared I am going to lose my job, not being able to remember things when I get back.....bored stiff here doing nothing.....etc, etc... Please keep me in your prayers and for sure be very careful when pushing and pulling that ladder in. I wasn t due to bending or anything like that.......just twisting the wrong way. Its been acute pain and I am ready to get out of pain and back to work. I sure could use a call or email from my support team. Hope I don't lose my job. Do you think I will? I don't want too at all. This has never ever happened to me before in my life. Isn't it horrible that its happen the 2nd to 3rd week. gosh , I could use some support. If anyone wants to make me feel better, please call or email me. 417-338-2321/417-230-3242 or email at jpacqt@aol.com. Keep me going guys!! Love you all

Message from Pam on Wed Jul 16 12:20:22 2003

Wow Karen that was exciting good thing you were still on the ground though! I think the best thing to do with the job is just do what we are suppose to do and that way we don't have to worry about having anything go wrong and having bad stuff in our file. What we have to do isn't that difficult so why mess it up. Leaving tomorrow for a 3 day and my first high speed Sunday night. I'm back on my SAAB woohoo have a long lay over in TRI Cities not much to do there but a FA I met said the hotel has a nice pool so think I'll just sit by the pool all afternoon with my book (what a job!) Hey you MEM people we are coming in around 8am Friday morning for a quick turn to TRI we will be in for about an hour anyone going to be there?

Message from Karen on Wed Jul 16 10:55:22 2003

Thanks you guys for the input - one last comment on this subject. I mentioned the issue to a FA that I was chatting with on the shuttle last night, and she said that 99% of the FA's combine it, and she never did, until one day, and wouldn't you know it, there was a ghost rider (a.k.a. company spy) on board, and she was written up and called in for it! She said she will never combine them again and she was so upset that the ONE time she did, she got in trouble. So, as you guys say, CYOA. Now to my mini-drama from last night's high speed! It was supposed to be :35 to Mason City, then :14 to Fort Dodge for overnight, but we broke down while on the ground in MCW! We were all strapped in ready to go for the second leg, and we waited and waited, and the lights went off a lot, and I thought hmmm... then I saw the emergency exits all lit up (they look nice by the way, and the floor track lighting is lovely as well - LOL)... then more waiting.... and I knew something was weird, but you know... you just smile and look like oh yes this is how it is all the time :) . Then the CA gets on the PA and tells us that there was some electrical problem, something wasn't firing up, and that they were talking to Maintenance and would continue trying different fixes. That went on for a while, then he came on again and said that he would be shutting all power completely off to try some different fixes. Nothing worked. It was a few minutes before midnight, these poor people (14) only had a short flight to be home but now they were stranded 1 1/2 hr drive from home. Mesaba put them in two white stretch limos for the trip to Fort Dodge! We stayed in MCW, and meanwhile 2 mechanics from MSP drove to MCW (about 2 1/2 hr I think) to do the repair. They did it and we left on time this morning at 5:50, but of course the FOD-MCW leg was cancelled. So that was my excitement for yesterday - I know it isn't much, but I'm not looking for TOOO MUCH drama while working!! When I got back to MSP I ran into Lisa and then Angela! Nice to see classmates again! Talk to you guys later - see you in the crew room!

Message from Pam on Tue Jul 15 21:21:50 2003

Yes Shaun I am so looking forward to us working together......we will have a great time!!! Karen Shaun is right once you work the RJ you will see. It's not that bad just a little more hectic then the SAAB, more Pax's of course but you also have the FC service. There is so much to remember especially the little things like when you use the glasses for FC service during the flight you have to place them side up in the trays stuff like that which is common since but when your in a hurry to get things cleaned up I forgot.

Message from Shaun on Tue Jul 15 20:59:10 2003

Hey Karen, in response to your post... The AFT FA is usually monitoring the carry-ons as people board. Remember that the AFT FA still has to go through and check COVE regardless of the crew call or not. So when you do that and you get to row 5 and find something that wont fit, all bins and closets are full, then you would just walk it up to the FWD FA so the agent can check it. This rarely happens. The only problem you really have with carry-ons are rows 5 through 7 because the overheads are smaller due to the wings. Once you work the jet more you will see what I am talking about. Enjoy the saab though. The jet is a great plane to work. Just takes forever to board amongst other things that really get to me. But, if you are with a FA you really get along with it can be a great time :) I hope this answered your question. When they came out with the idea of having a crew call before closing the door, I think they were thought we were operating a 747!. You'll understand more when you fly it..but also keep in mind that if you do feel uncomfortable combining the crew calls, then by all means talk to the FA and let them know you want to make it separate. Remember its all about CYOA!! Pam - are you looking forward to our 3 day at the end of the month? We'll have a GREAT time. Can't wait! HAVE FUN EVERYONE!

Message from Pam on Tue Jul 15 20:09:12 2003

Karen on my trips last weekend on the RJ most the luggage did fit we also used the coat bin once what did happen though was the timing with boarding. There isn't alot of time between First class and second class (Mid cabin LOL) and most of the time the agents boarded everyone at once so what the other FA said she usually combines both announcements to save time when the flight is going to be full and it did work. Also there is so much going on while the pax's are boarding between doing the pre-board service in FC and dealing with UM's that were boarded last due to late connections and staffing (they are so understaffed here in DTW) you need to get that door closed on time. I don't know what the staffing is like in MSP but here in DTW it's pretty bad.

Message from Karen on Tue Jul 15 16:17:46 2003

Ok, I just have to ask a question about the 1st 2 crew calls being combined. Maybe this is a dumb question, but remember I have had NO jet trips since OE, so bear with me! When I do the COVE check on the Saab, I think of it as my last chance to get rid of any luggage that isn't fitting before the door shuts. So if you are shutting the door on the jet without checking with the aft FA, don't you run the risk of being stuck with something that doesn't fit? Or is it just so rare on the jet that things don't fit? Is there always plenty of room? I just assumed that was why the procedure is the way it is. Just wondering...thanks!

Message from Shaun on Tue Jul 15 14:45:34 2003

Whats up guys and gals? Just got back from a 4 day. I have one day off then another 4 day. Whew! Anyways- Pam, I cannot believe FA's are filing a complaint with the union. Thats crazy. Just because you knew how to bid? Or called someone who did? The reason FA's dont get alot of days off is because of how they bid. The senior FA's ask for too much. They put in they want a specific pairing thats on a weekend, then they has for the weekends off. If they would stop asking for too much they would get a better schedule. The union isnt going to care, but oh well.. Marleen I read about your experience with that other FA. I have had my share of FA's that I had to "tango" with. I guess its all about adapting to how that other person works and trying to make it run smoothly. All I can say is CYOA, Cover Your Own A**. If the other FA does things "not by the book" just know how it should be done and do it the way you think is best. There are going to be alot of FA's that do things totally differently. This is one downfall of the jet. I do know however that everyone combines the 1st and 2nd crew call together. I am sure mgmt knows about it and I have not heard of anyone getting coached for it. Alot of the times the FWD FA is so busy doing pre-dep, hanging coats, communicating with the FD etc.. so its almost more efficient to do it that way. So like I said cover your own and just know that going into a trip you might have a FA that does things differently. Remember that what they teach us in training is for the "perfect world" What you learn from other FA's (most of them anyways) especially senior ones who have been through it all is much more valuble. I guess you just have to use that training background and mix it with the things you learn while flying the line. Anyways moving on... Well it looks to me that you guys in CVG and MEM might not be on reserve for too long. I think Joseph even talked to Charlotte (MEM MGR) and she had said the same thing. So with that said I just might be putting in a transfer request to either MEM or CVG. Not sure yet because CVG is all jet and I prefer the saab. Like Pam said "you run the show" and its just plain simple, the people are nicer it seems. So I guess I have some serious thinking to do. Oh by the way Pam, what was the FO's name that you just flew with? We gotta tell Mary! :) Nikki, let me know the next time they send you to DTW. Call my cell phone maybe I'll be there and we can go out and talk and have a cig! Well guys I think thats all for now. I have a 29 hour 4 day on thurs so I will talk to you guys after that. Have Fun guys, and fly safe!

Message from Pam on Tue Jul 15 12:45:11 2003

Oh Nikki forgot to mention that I'm glad your OE went so well. Yes I heard about Tammy and what a nice person she is. Ran into Kim and Dora again both are doing fine. Mary where are you???? I haven't seen you yet!!! I flew with a cutie this weekend he just broke up with his girlfriend and told him about you.

Message from Pam on Tue Jul 15 12:41:00 2003

Hey all........Gezz Marlene what a mess! I did my first RJ trip this weekend and fortunately I did have a nice person to fly with. I was talking with the CA on our last leg and he asked me how I liked the RJ compaired to the SAAB told him the SAAB hands down the reason...I'm my own boss!!! He said so many times he has had to deal with both FA's sqabbling amoung themselves one is rude to the other etc.... just like what you went through.... that FA was way out of line Marlene but were going to have to deal with everything even our own co-workers but just remember you won't have to see or fly with him again anytime soon. Mary I'll try and save your birthday.... I did hear that there were a lot of people mad cause I had so many days off and guess they were going to file a complaint to the union. Don't blame them actually I would be mad too if a new hire had that many days off. Hey I didn't do the scheduling and think cause I bid for all weekends which is so unusual is why my schedule was put together like that. Hope you guys get a chance to go to Portland, MA what an awesome place!!!

Message from Nikki on Mon Jul 14 22:50:51 2003

Oops, I guess my message was too long...Im tired, so Ill just finish it tomorow! :) Nite!

Message from Nikki on Mon Jul 14 22:49:25 2003

Hey Everyone :) Gotta make this quick, since I have to be at the airport in like 5 hours, for ready reserve :( Oh well, I hope I'll meet some more cool people! I was called out yesterday, to deadhead to Detroit at noon...then sat in the airport for like 3 hours before meeting up with my new crew...We went to Traverse City.It was my first time as a real, non-OE-ing FA, and lo and behold, the other FA was Tammy, the most wonderful OE instructor/mentor in the world! I was SO happy to be working with her! I had just finished my OE with her (on the jet) a few days before hand! I really felt like someone (ok, God!) was looking out for me and my sanity yesterday! So, it all went well, I'm glad to report. Marleen, that sucks, about that other mean FA...I did think it was interesting, though, that Tammy told me (after we were all finished with OE) that 95% of FA's do not d

Message from Marleen on Mon Jul 14 19:03:55 2003

Hey Mary, I think I appreciate the advise, but you didn't really hit on what I was upset about. There are certain parts of the job and of other people's behavior that I can deal with, (if you don't want to sit in your jumpseat during take-off and landing, that's on you) but there are certain things that I don't feel I should have to put up with. Being treated like a child by a lazy FA who wants to criticize me for doing my job crosses the line. And, like I told him, I can be laid back and still do my job. And I'm not quite sure how you combine calling this a laid back job (which it is) and taking it so that we could "live life on the edge." I guess I find nothing about this job stressful or hard or glamorous; it's probably one of the easiest jobs I've ever had. But I do get annoyed when the other FA walks in front of me when I'm finishing my demo. gives away free alcohol out of my MC cabinet, breaks my liquor cabinet seals and throws them away without giving me a chance to verify the number after I noticed a discrepancy, etc. etc. I think you're getting the picture that there were several things this FA was doing that I felt interfered with safety and me doing a good job, and I felt he was the last person to lecture me about being an adult and being a good FA. But, I sound like I'm dismissing you when in fact I agree with some of what you said. This job can be very laid back, but don't compromise my ability to be safe and do a good job. On that note, hope you get the day off for your birthday. I'm off to do the same 4 day trip again, so if there is anything else exciting in BHM, OKC, or DSM, I'll let you all know. Safe flying!

Message from Mary on Sun Jul 13 19:46:37 2003

I am sorry to hear about your experience Marlene on the Jet. Sometimes I think we do need to keep in mind that our job is not completely black and white though. We have a flexible and laxed job if we make it that way. I know that as far as the first and second crew calls go we can combine them and I have realized that it is more convenient and time consuming especially when trying to get those flights out on time. My advice is take a breather,sit back and don'tsweat the small stuff. Have fun...afterall that is why we took this job...to live on the edge. Save your sweat for if something to sweat about happens...like someone smoking in the Lav. Anyways Imiss you all and I hope to see you soon. Good Luck. P.S. My birthday is the 15th of August...Pam don't request that day off. You will get it before me :0

Message from Karen on Sat Jul 12 09:44:56 2003

Oh my gosh Marleen, that FA is way out of line! I just can't believe there are those that take the procedures as optional! We just have to remember what they told us in training: that we will see things like that but we will just be responsible for ourselves, knowing we are doing things right. It hard when it's a joint effort though, like the communication on the RJ. Since I have yet to work on the RJ (aside from OE) I haven't had to face anything like that yet. I don't mind the Saab at all, except that it would be fun to work with another FA once in a while! (Unless I get that moron you're talking about!) Just got in from third high speed in a row here, now I have a few days off before three high speeds again next week. They're not so bad on a beautiful summer day like today! Bye...watch your head...thank you...watch your head...bye now...watch your head...watch your head...buh bye...watch your head...OOOOH! That's gotta hurt...

Message from Marleen on Fri Jul 11 21:13:30 2003

What adventures! Guess I'm having a few of my own, too. Day 2 into a four day and I kind of had some words with the other FA who started to tell me that he doesn't do the first crew call and only chimes on the 4th and 5th, etc. and when I stopped to clarify what he was talking about, he told me to chill out. Then he accused me of being uptight about the job, not acting like an adult, etc. I told him that I didn't think he had the right to speak to me like that, etc. and we had some words. PAX were boarding and I didn't have time to finish the conversation, so I went AFT and was just fuming inside! He later apoligized nd told me that he's just a laid back person and thinks of this job as a vacation and that you just need to take everything with a grain of salt. I accepted his apoligy, but somehow I didn't feel any better. Guess I'm just getting a little tired of senior FAs telling me that I'm doing things wrong because I'm doing my job right. Sorry guys, just needed to vent a little! The day continued with delays in ATL that made in a 15 hour day, then my crew bag was accidentaly loaded onto another flight! It has been tracked down and should meet up with me in DSM tonight @2345. But, I'm trying to take it all in stride. Just wish I didn't have to do one more day with this lazy, apathetic moron, but that's a whole nother story. Birmingham is a nice RON. The beautiful Sheraton is in the middle of downtown, next to the free trolly, free art museum, and Sports Hall of Fame. If I learn more next week, I'll write back. Congrats to Nikki!!!! I'll see you around! And safe flying to all!

Message from Pam on Thu Jul 10 12:44:18 2003

Hey all Wanted to mention that I was talking to a FA here in DTW and she had just got back from recurrance. She said she was talking to a FAA agent who was telling them that they are really monitoring the manuals. He said they found several FA's manuals that were not current and fined them the 1100.00. One FA threatened to quit but like they told us in class it didn't matter that they would still have to pay the fine. While we were trying to get a flight to OKC there was a FAA agent boarding that flight watched him show his badge and paper work. Hope we hear from Ollie, Brenda, Janelle and Lona would love to hear how the classes are going.

Message from Karen on Thu Jul 10 10:28:23 2003

When I got in from my high speed this morning, I went over to the training center to buy a uniform piece, and I saw Lona, Ollie, and Brenda! It was so fun to see them again, and I mentioned to them that they should check out this message board and see what everyone has been up to. So this message is to the instructors, because I forgot to mention it: You can also submit messages - your names are listed in the "select name" drop down box - we'd love to hear from you guys too!

Message from Pam on Wed Jul 9 14:24:47 2003

Hey Joseph looks like your up and running again good to hear from you. Thats exciting that you will be off reserve status soon I think we will be reserve for a while. Don't know how many are graduating from the class that is currently running but they should be done soon hope there is a lot coming to DTW. Yes my first experience trying to travel was not very pleasent and my poor daughter was so disappointed it was a long day for both of us. I don't know if the reason they were so rude was because I was from DTW I know our CSA's have been pretty nice to me here but other's say they are rude. Whatever the reason is it sure has scared me enough not to go through MSP for a while. Forgot to mention to that when I finally found the crew room the only person in the room who tried to help me find someone so that I could buy a ticket back home was from Memphis she said she has had problems there as well. I just felt like Dorothy in the Land of OZ who just wanted to click her heals together and go home!

Message from Joseph on Wed Jul 9 10:53:32 2003

Guys, I am sorry you are all having problems with DTW and MSP. I guess Danita, Nichole and myself are all so lucky. We have a great team here and everyone is sooooooooo helpful. Our Manager tells us that we will get off reserve in October after new hires does their green line. I am so glad that things are going well in Memphis. Everyone that I have met (including Pinnacle) are so good to deal with. Oh, I will tell you one thing. I was going back to Branson on Pinnacle and I had my badge on. Some lady was talking to me the whole time the FA was giving the demo presentation. In the middle of the speech, she looked at me and said rudely" Just because some of us know this, it would benefit others who are not familiar with this to hear it. I just about DIED! I could not believe it.

Message from Pam on Wed Jul 9 10:36:08 2003

Karen your right there is good and bad everywhere. I just couldn't believe the CSA's attitudes and tried to put myself in their situation. It was just frustrating to be told of the rules and how it works with the list then to see the agents give seats away to their friends when others with more seniority were waiting. It was a bad day all around, so many people there and all those flights over booked. It seems that they are so short staffed and have to work two and three gates at a time. They schedule these flights so close together and the agents are having to run from one gate to another, thats crazy!! About 70% of the time when we pulled into the gate here in DTW we had to wait for a Jetway agent to come. One day the pilot radioed four times, we had pax's with connecting flights and finally I had to put the stairs down so that he could physically go find someone. I guess we just have to do our best to try and make the other person's job better for them. Also I was just upset that our own agents couldn't take two seconds to tell me where the crew room was and to be so rude like that but like you said it's not just MSP it could be anywhere and who you ask. I go back Friday doing the RJ for the first time since my OE going on an overnight in Lexington, KY and Portland, Maine sounds like a fun trip and can't wait to go. For the first time I look forward to going to work! It's a crazy profession but like Shaun says, it's addicting!

Message from Karen on Wed Jul 9 10:06:29 2003

I'm sorry to hear that those MSP agents are not treating you right. I was just commenting that all of the MSP CSA's have been pretty good to work with. In fact, the captain that I just flew with (he's based in DTW) was telling me to watch out the first time I go through DTW, that I won't believe how rude everyone is. He didn't specifically say the CSA's, he was citing examples about trying to get stuff done for the plane like a lav change, and how it's like pulling teeth at DTW, and not a problem at MSP. I suppose there's good and bad at all the stations. So again, I hope those CSA's are just an isolated few, because I have been pleased that they have been actually quite good. Are they acting like that because you are DTW based?! What in the...???? Anyway, I hope it goes better next time you come through!! I hate to think that people think of Minnie that way! One more thing - I just added a little link at the top of the page so that you don't have to scroll down to post a message, you can just click above, where it says "click here" and it will take you down to the bottom of the page. I start a string of high speeds tonight! I'll be looking for you all in the crew room!

Message from Pam on Wed Jul 9 07:35:12 2003

Shaun you are right in saying that MSP and DTW are two different worlds!!! I was so amazed at the rudeness of those agents! I have more to tell but am still fuming so thought I would hold off! All I will say is that my 13 year old asked me why everyone was so mean? Mary I think I know the latin hunk your talking about........yes he is very nice looking I bet he knows how to Salsa!!!!

Message from Mary on Wed Jul 9 00:03:00 2003

Sorry, I could have written this below but I just thought of something else. Those of you in Detroit (Dora knows what I am talking about) there is I swear the best looking pilot ever. He is latin for sure because he has a really cool accent, his name is Pablo Gutarez (I checked his name tag), and he is just beautiful. I want to meet him but he works for Northwest. Dora says that he is old. I don't care.

Message from Mary on Tue Jul 8 23:59:19 2003

I really think we need to add another sentence to our pre-flight speeches. " The FA jumpseats located in the front and the aft of the aircraft are not to be used as changing tables for your babies. Those are located in the Lav."

Message from Shaun on Tue Jul 8 22:02:13 2003

Hey guys! Sorry I haven't posted here in a while. I have been flying so much lately, and its just beginning because i traded a few trips with open time for more hours plus picked up more trips. You think with 11 days off I would try to enjoy them but I put myself down to 9 days off and 120 hours for July! I'm crazy and I'm sure I'll regret it by the end of the month. Oh well its cash I guess :) Anyways Congrats Nikki! WOOHOO. I am so glad you are officially done with training. Hey at least you will have a line in August then the rest of us are sitting reserve! Who did you have for your instructors? Oh and Pam I hate to say it but for some reason and its not in all cases but the MSP agents aren't too fond with DTW crews. Not sure if its because someone just ruined it for the rest or what? DTW and MSP are two different worlds. That was so rude of them. How long would it take for them to explain where the crew room was? Thats just crazy. I would have handled it the same exact way! Oh Karen I had the same thing happen to me when I first started here. A guy snuck into the lav when I was securing my galley and I had my back turned. Well he never locked the door so the light was never on. Well I hate to say this but he was in there for landing. Came out while we taxied and I was just in awe. It was my FIRST flight on the saab after OE. Sometimes you feel like a babysitter. I think people leave their brains at home when they travel. Although you keep learning with every experience you have. Just like they said in training, this is a very gray job. Most things that happen are so complex that its not even in the manual. Its always good to have the "by the book" training but its a whole different story once you are out there, isnt it? I hope you are all having a great time on the line. This is a hard position to leave. Take my word for it I did it and look where I ended up. The money isnt great, and reserve can get crazy but once you have a line it just gets better. Joseph I hope your back is ok. Don't lift any carry-ons on your jet trip!! FLY SAFE everyone and HAVE FUN! Wouldnt it be nice to have a line from here on out and no reserve? Only in a perfect world. But, they must be having another class even after the July 21st clas because DTW is scheduled for another open house on the 24th of this month. Oh and also next month we pick up DTW-BOS. That should be a nice trip. Also if anyone gets the Halifax overnight let me know how it is there? Take care everyone! :)

Message from Pam on Tue Jul 8 18:42:51 2003

Congrats Nikki!! I'm so happy that things went well for you. Thought I would run into you Minni people yesterday. Was trying to get to OKC with my daughter to visit a friend and didn't make it. Guess between the weather over the weekend and post holiday travel most of all the flights were over booked. I checked the loads on Saturday and it looked good but things I guess changed on Sunday with bad weather in the Chicago area which caused alot of cancelations. We made it to Minnie and that was it, tried to get back to Detroit but the list of Non-Rev's was about 40 max and me being on the bottom cause most were NW made it even harder to get on. Was an interesting day....met a couple who booked at the same hotel she was a NW FA for 15 years. She was so mad because the last flight out last night guess the CSA's let some of their friends on who had less seniority then her get on that last flight. I had an incident with one of our agents. I went up to her and asked where the crew room was ( I remembered that it was in the C Concourse but couldn't remember exactly where) she pointed and said that way and when I said where exactly is that she says to me with a very sarcastic tone "didn't they teach you where anything was?" I just smiled and said "yes they did and since they probably taught you more where exactly is the crew room in Detroit?" She just stared at me and I walked away. Went up to another agent and asked and she told me she was too busy (she was at a gate with no pax's ... hmmmm ) then went to another and asked he said that he didn't know, finally Jill was nice enough to give me second and give me directions, It was an interesting experince to say the least. Lesson learned..........do not fly non-rev, post holiday and be sure and check your flight counts before you leave that day!!!

Message from Nikki on Tue Jul 8 16:05:17 2003

Hey Everyone! It's official! I finished my OE yesterday evening! It was great...both of the instructors were really nice and helpful :) And, SaDee and her mom deadheaded on my first (well, 2nd, but first in the front position) Jet trip as the FWD FA...It was craziness...there were like eight 12-14 year-old hyper boyscouts sitting right in row 5, and I couldn't even look at them while I was doing the demo! I'm sure they were laughing at me, especially when I did the oxygen mask thing upside down! Oh well...after that, everything went great :) Thanks again so much for all of your prayers and encouragement! I start on reserve friday, for the rest of the month, then greenline in august :) I can't wait to run into you all soon! Joseph, are you feeling any better now? I sure hope so! The jet crew I was with was so much fun. I went to dinner with the captain and FO, and it was so nice just talking with, and getting to know them. In Deluth, my OE instructor's cousin lives there, so she picked us up from the hotel, and gave us a little driving tour of the town :) You were right Karen, it is really pretty! Well, gotta run, but talk to you all soon! :) Nikki p.s.- Im nervous (can you believe it, LOL) about my first "solo" trip...how were all of your first solos?) And Shaun, where are you?! :)

Message from Marleen on Tue Jul 8 14:41:34 2003

Joseph, I am so sorry to hear about your back! I hope you are better soon! I was just thinking about all you MEM people; I RONed in MEM on July 5th; stayed at a friend's house and went out for BBQ at Rendezvous! Had a great time. Saw Nicole, but only briefly. Duluth sounds beautiful! Hope I have an opportunity to go. This month, I overnight in Birmingham 2 x, OK City 2 x, and Fayetteville 2 X, so I'll fill you all in on the exciting things to do there. SaDee, I now belong to the "a PAX made a paper rose for me" club! A guy on the plane doing origamy gave me 2 of his roses. In color, no less! Did any of you hear about the CVG manager, Deb? I guess she is suspended for allowing her intern to get an airport SIDA badge when he did not have his clearance done. Lisa Lang is our acting for now, so we'll see! Safe flying, all!!

Message from Karen on Mon Jul 7 09:42:41 2003

Hi again everyone! I can tell everyone's been working hard over the holiday as no one has had much time to post on the board here. I have a couple days off now, and for the next 2 weeks I have high-speed lines (3 trips each week). I had a little mini-incident yesterday! Coming into MSP, landing gear down, looking at tree-tops, and all of a sudden a lady in 9A gets up and hops into the lav! ("A" model so it was about arm's length from where she was sitting). She made no eye contact with me as she went in, she just popped in and shut the door! I immediately called the Flight Deck, and the captain said "let me know if she isn't out in 30 seconds", so I went back and pounded on the lav "maam you need to come out of the bathroom for landing!!". I kept pounding, and finally she emerged, and I pointed to her seat and said "I need you in your seat with your seat belt on for landing!" and just then *bing bong* captain calling for update, I ran up to the interphone and told him we were good! When we talked about it later he said he was ready to circle if she wasn't in her seat - as I had assumed. So a little excitement, not like we were in danger or anything (but she was!! Imagine if she opened the door at touchdown) but it was a good reminder to me to not be complacent about pax behavior. Besides that excitement, over the last 6 days I ran into SaDee, Heather, and Mary in the crew room, AND.... Dora deadheaded on one of my flights! The reason her crew was deadheading was that they had ENGINE FAILURE going to Grand Forks!! So she has quite a story! I almost had a chance to sit up in the Flight Deck - the Captain said if no one was on board for the leg from ABR to ATY I could sit up there and wouldn't you know - we had ONE GUY so I couldn't! The Captain is a super nice guy, lives here but is based out of DTW so you DTW people are lucky if you fly with him: Paul Hendrickson. He thinks FA's should sit in the FD as part of their training! Talk to you guys later - See you in the Crew Room!

Message from Pam on Sun Jul 6 17:30:23 2003

Hey all.....just got back from my first Canadian trip, spent two nights in Ottawa what an awsome city!! We got in around 11p but the first night we were tired so the next morning I got up early and went to check out the sites. We didn't have much time cause we had to leave around 11:30 but since I had two days of the same trip the next morning I went to see the changing of the guards in front the of Parlimont, that was so cool to see. Ottawa is such a beautiful city hope everyone gets a chance to go there. Joseph hope your back is doing better I know how that feels, I did the same thing shoveling snow its very painful!! Nikki hope your OE went well please let us know how it went. Shaun and I are working together in a couple of weeks, we should have a great time. Hope everyone had a nice 4th of July I know most of us were working but it wasn't to bad.

Message from Karen on Thu Jul 3 23:10:45 2003

Joseph!! Oh my gosh - you are right, I don't believe it! I know how horrible that pain is because my husband has been through it. Take care, and I hope you are feeling better very soon!!!

Message from Karen on Thu Jul 3 22:03:05 2003

Nikki, I hope I run into you when you are at MSP! I'll be around, that's for sure! If you have time to go down to the waterfront when you are in Duluth, take the hotel escalator down to 2nd floor - that is the skyway level. There are arrows pointing all the different directions you can go via skyway, follow the ones to Wells Fargo Bank. At that point the signs will say to "Canal Park/Waterfront" and just follow the arrows. When you emerge to the outside, walk across the blue bridge. Hope you have time to do this! Good luck on your OE - thank goodness you are finally beginning it!

Message from Joseph on Thu Jul 3 13:31:31 2003

Hello everyone. You guys will not believe this. I was going from MEM to Greenville, Ms on the saab and I press down on the release latch and moved the ladder in and something popped in my back. I was in agony. I had to be put in a wheelchair and rolled all over the airport to be transported to the emergency room. I pulled something in my back and I was in the emergency room for 4 hours. Got home around 2 am in the morning. I am released from my 4 day Saab trip and will start back on Wed 9th for a 4 day on the RJ. Words of wisdom, be very careful lifting and moving things. It really is true. Back injuries happen all the time. I hope not to have this happen again. Anyway, other than that all is well and flying is so easy. Hope all is well and hope all have a great 4TH. Happy flying! Joseph

Message from Marleen on Thu Jul 3 09:41:23 2003

Looking forward already to my first love note from you, Nikki! Crew room in MSP is easy; go to Gate C27, down the escalator, take the ramp to the extreme right past the Tiki looking restaurant, and go thru the door maked "do not enter." There will be another door that wants a code. (I won't put it here, someone there will help you.) It will be familiar then. Good luck, and I'll see you around!

Message from Nikki on Thu Jul 3 01:09:18 2003

Yay Karen! OMG! I am so excited to start, and and I found out today that I am doing my OE starting Saturday morning...I'll overnight in MSP that night, and then Duluth, the next night! I am now even more excited, since you said it is really nice:) Thanks, everyone for all of your words of encouragement and support...It has really helped! Of course now, I'm getting quite nervous, but that's to be expected :) Marleen, I can't wait to see you around CVG...I'll leave you a note in your mailbox, if we don't run into eachother! I meant to, two weekends ago, when I went to PIT, but I forgot (you know me!). Anyways, can't wait to see you all soon...I still need to figure out where the MSP crew room is...And of course, go to Wok and Roll, for their wonderful spicy bean curd dish :) Talk to you all soon, and happy flying! :) Nikki

Message from Karen on Wed Jul 2 19:52:37 2003

Yay Nikki! Finally! That is great! I am in the crew room right now, day 2 of a 3 day. I spent the day in beautiful Duluth! It was so awesome! For those of you that might not be familiar with Duluth, it is a port city on Lake Superior, and quite a tourist destination, as it is gorgeous! They have developed the waterfront (called Canal Park) to include a boardwalk along the shore (it goes 4 miles I hear!) and lots of quaint shops, restaurants and park benches. The best part is that the crew hotel is the Holiday Inn, noted for being hard to get reservations at, located right downtown, connected to the waterfront by a skyway, a 10 minute walk. We arrived there last night, and didn't fly out until 6:00 pm today, So I spent a few hours overlooking Lake Superior and the seagulls, and a lighthouse, with a good book. I even got a little sunburned as it was a beautiful day! If you have the chance to overnight in Duluth, I hope you have time to go enjoy the waterfront. Off to Rhinelander tonight now... I better go so I have time to grab an ice cream cone first! Bye!!! I miss you guys!

Message from Pam on Wed Jul 2 17:29:47 2003

Marleen I couldn't have said it any better.........Nikki may the bird of paradise stay away from the engines......and may lightening never strike twice. Going on a 3day, two night trip leaving tomorrow, I am ready!! This job sure makes you stir crazy, can't wait to get back up there.

Message from Marleen on Wed Jul 2 16:16:52 2003

P.S. Nikki, don't forget to wish everyone a Happy 4th of July! That goes for all of you, too.

Message from Marleen on Wed Jul 2 16:15:18 2003

Congrats, Nikki! Wish I could be of some help to you. I'm on a 2 day-1 day-2 day until Sunday, so I'll be gone between now and then. Words of advice; don't get too frustrated that things are different then they taught us in class. For your OE, just do it by the book. Words of luck; may you have no bird strikes, aborted takeoffs, doors opening up in your face, or pot bellies pigs!! Best of luck!!

Message from Mary on Wed Jul 2 14:29:20 2003

Mary, Yeah...NIKKI!!!!I would love to come tonight except I start a 4 day tomorrow morning. I do have 3 days off next week though?

Message from Pam on Wed Jul 2 14:16:59 2003

Nikki I'm so happy for you!!! Good luck, you will do great just show off that beautiful smile of yours and you will have those guys melting in their seats!!!! Let us know how it goes!

Message from Nikki on Wed Jul 2 11:28:04 2003

Hey everyone! I got the call today from Renee James, and Im going to start my OE (finally!) on Friday! I'm so excited! Please pray for me! Thanks :) Mary, you could come to CVG tonite, if you want :) I think we are going to have a cookout :) Nikki

Message from Pam on Tue Jul 1 21:09:02 2003

Hey Marleen yes it was weird that we both had a simular experience. Also Sunday I was doing Ready Reserve and they called me to do a leg which was great beats sitting around the airport all day. Anyways I was doing a service and I turned around and the FO had come out to use the bathroom. I was again shocked cause I thought that they were suppose to call us if one had to leave the flight deck to and sit up there till they returned. I have seen so much that of things we were told not to do. When I was doing my OE on the RJ the AFT flight attendant let a little boy go to the bathroom as were we getting ready to take off she said she didn't see him cause she was sitting in Row 15 instead of the jump seat..yes it was an interesting trip!!!

Message from Marleen on Tue Jul 1 20:50:26 2003

I love the reunion idea! I vote for Karen as class president! Are you up for it, Karen? Pam, how bizzare that you had a similar incident with the door. Did everyone just try and blow it off? I think the part that upset me the most wasn't that I was almost knocked out cold, it was that everyone acted like "I" was wrong. Is it going to take one of us new kids getting hurt before they address it? That's cool that there are more trainees on the way. Seniority, here we come! I sat Ready Reserve once and have a few tips: bring a book bring a video (or three) write on the message board (!) socialize call Crew Scheduling an hour before you're done and ask if anything is up That should help pass the time. Save flying! I'm off flying for the next 5 days, so I'll catch you all on Monday.

Message from Pam on Tue Jul 1 17:48:24 2003

Hey Mary......the reunion idea sounds great! We married ones will enjoy the volcano tour while the singles are sleeping it off.......I do want to go Salsa dancing again Mary! I'm off till Thursday evening then off to Ottawa, Canada, it will be my first to do the E311's. Talked to Betsy today she is doing great. She hasn't done the Saab yet alone...lucky girl. I do love flying them but would like the jet which I will do this month they have me doing both. Nikki, Shaun, Mary....you guys call me when you go out, I may be old but I'm not dead!

Message from Mary on Tue Jul 1 14:44:59 2003

P.S. Legally Blonde 2 opens tomorrow.

Message from Mary on Tue Jul 1 14:43:00 2003

Nikki, Cual aeropuerto? DTW? CVG? How many days will you be here? Tonight I am going out with some friends to a fun bar because I am off the next couple of days. I think Shaun is coming too. You should join...hopefully you get your fingerprints back and you are not classified as a fugitive (jk). Hey maybe Mom will come out with us all to college night tonight, what do you think? Oh and speaking of that one year class reunion... I ahve an idea. When I was in Costa Rica we went to this beach called Manuel Antonio and they have this bar/restaurant that is set up in an actual airplane. It was so cool, so I think that we should have it there. Believe me there is fun for everyone. Single? There are lots of latin guys. Attached? There are lots of beautiful scenic views of volcanos, sandy beaches, birds and orchids. Since we can all fly for cheap...this could be great. Have a spastic July.

Message from Pam on Mon Jun 30 16:40:26 2003

Hey guys so glad to read of everyone's experience! Marleen I had a very simular experience on my OE!!! I was doing what I was suppose to do and as I looked into the viewer I heard that door handle move and got out of the way ASAP!! I was so shocked and looked at my OE with this startled look like "no, that is not what they told us in training!!" She agreed with me and said that to be very careful cause everyone is in such a big fat hurry!! She said it's because everyone is so over worked and these csa's are working two and three gates at a time. Still someone is going to get hurt if they don't do something about that!!! I still haven't done solo on the RJ it's been all on the SAAB which is fine I'm having a great time. Mary you are so right this is a cake job and fun too, I don't miss my old job at all! They gave me a great schedule for July and I am planning on taking my girls to see friends of ours in Oklahoma next week. I'm also dragging my husband's butt to Chicago for a weekend, told him there is a big fat world out there an I am damn and determined to drag is arse to as many places as we can!! I still have not seen you Shaun and Mary, you guys call me the next time you go to Mr. B's in Royal Oak (but not in the middle of the night ok???.. I'm an old woman!!) Nikki I have a great picture of you, just got them developed today and hope things start to move fast for you so you can get up there in the big sky (without the lightening and birds.) I think we need a class reunion and am appointing Karen as our class president...what do you guys think?? Karen I'll help you organize this, we should try and do it at our 1 year, what do you guys think?

Message from Karen on Mon Jun 30 15:05:24 2003

Marleen - that is really weird about the door incidents that you had. It's not just that they seem rushed or even lazy, but rather a completely different understanding of procedure. And you're right, that handle smacking you in the head would not be fun at all! I still haven't solo'd on the RJ (and won't until August at the earliest!) so i have no personal experience to contribute, except that my OE instructor was on the same page as we are when I did my OE. Have many of you guys sat Ready Reserve yet? I had my first experience with that yesterday. It wasn't so bad. Yes, it's a bit boring, but I brought the newspaper, and my book, and spent much of the time socializing anyway. I met lots of people of course, including quite a few of the new hire trainees that were doing their observations! They wandered into the Crew Room with their eyes roving all over, and that "look on their faces" - I knew immediately who they were! That was so fun to talk to them and they had only about 1,000 questions for me about everything. I found out there are five from each of the four domiciles, and another class is starting in July too! Then, Danita came in (that was twice in 2 days I saw her!) and she had a couple hours right at lunchtime, so we went to lunch together. How perfect was that! Of course I kept the cell phone at my side, constantly checking to make sure it was in range! I never was assigned all day, but that was fine too. Today I am off, and then I go 6 days in a row starting tomorrow (2 3-days). Nikki - glad to hear you took the bull by the horns and got the process restarted. Hopefully they can rush it or something! See you all in the Crew Room!

Message from Marleen on Mon Jun 30 11:46:43 2003

This is so cool to read about everyone running into each other and staying in touch. NIkki, can I be of any help with studying? Let me Know! I have yet to do a SAAB trip, so I'm starting to feel like a jet queen. Did have a little problem the other night coming into CVG. I went to look into the telescopic viewer on 1L before I disarmend the door. When I saw the jetbridge was in place, I disarmed the door and checked my girt bars. As I was picking up the phone to do my crew call, the doors opened! I stood there shocked and started at the csa. I asked her if she got a thumbs up from the FD and she said she did. So, I asked the CA what happened and he told me he thought he heard me chime him. (Did he also thought he heard our crew call?) I told him what happened and that I was two seconds away from getting smacked in the face with the door handle, and they all tried to blow it off with comments like, "well, they're always anxious to get the door opened here," and "you know that opening the door from the outside disarms the door," and "you should open 1L first and then 1R." I stood my ground that I was taught differently and that it seemed to me everyone was in too much of a rush and the only one who could have gotten hurt was me. I haven't decided yet if I should bring this incident up to my manager or not. If there is confusion over which door to open first, or an airport-wide problem with rushing to get the doors open, then maybe she ought to know about it. I wouldn't want any of you guys to get hurt. What do you think?

I ran into Sadee the same day I had the CVG door incident. She cut her hair and it looks really cute! Sadee said she is also getting SAAB trips. I've got my July schedule-95 hours and some change! My husband has (at the same time I was going thru OE) been transfered to corporate HQ in San Diego! He can still work from Ohio, but will have to travel to SD one week a month. So, between our 2 schedules, I will be able to see him 4 full days and 2 half days in July! Oye! Not going to my family reunion either, but I saw that coming, too. But, Mary is right, what a job! Open and close the door, talk on the phone, and serve drinks. The hard part is the lack of sleep on the shorter overnights. Keep posting, guys, and if you have any feedback on my door story, let me know.

Message from Nikki on Sun Jun 29 22:08:15 2003

Mary, Come and visit me!! We would have so much fun! I will probably be busy all day tomorow (doing the refingerprinting thing), but you could come that evening (I'll already be at the arpt.) or on tuesday...Write back and let me know what you think :) Nikki

Message from Mary on Sun Jun 29 17:56:56 2003

This job is way too easy to quit. I have 94 hours and some odd minutes next month to work. I have a couple of high speeds and the rest are trips no longer than three days. Shaun and I still hang out and we are trying to arrange a little scheme so that we can fly together because you all know what damage we could cause together on the RJ. Other than that I am off for the next three days...I wonder what I'll do ?

Message from Nikki on Sun Jun 29 15:32:54 2003

Hey Everyone :) I am also still alive (Mary!), although things are still at a standstill for me... I am really getting frustrated. I called the FBI myself on Friday, and they said they have no record of me in their system AT ALL. So it looks like my dainty little fingerprints have been lost at some point along the way, and I will have to be re-printed on Monday, and start the whole process over again :( Hopefully they can rush them along, and maybe I can start in a week or so...Im so nervous I'm going to forget everything we learned! But I am going over my manual and homework, etc. almost every night...I also took a little trip to PIT (with a layover in DTW) last weekend, just to keep me fresh on the whole RJ system :) (and also to see a friend ;) I ran into Kim, and she was super nice :) My goodness, DTW is a beautiful airport! ALl of you based there are so lucky! I was so amazed! Especially at the psychedelic tunnel and the jumping water fountains! Pittsburg is also a very nice airport as well. Let me prepare you for CVG, everyone...Our gates are in the oldest part of the airport, and you will feel as if you have taken a time machine flight back into 1982, when you walk around! But, if NW enters a codeshare agreement (negotiations start in July) with Delta, we will probably get to use some gates in the awesome, new Delta terminal :) Keep your fingers crossed. Anyways,I love reading about all of your exciting adventures, so keep them coming! Talk to you all soon :) It's funny how I still think about everyone constantly, and can't wait to see you all in the airports! Miss you! :) Nikki

Message from Karen on Sat Jun 28 13:26:01 2003

Just got back from my first high-speed and my first trip into Canada. Janelle is right about the hotel in Thunder Bay - a longer layover there would be nice! It's got a "North Woods" feel to it - the restaurant's name is "Timbers" to give you an idea. I was so happy to run into Danita at the airport! She said she got LOTS of hours for July (I think she said 96!). She reports that Joseph has been doing lots of high-speeds and isn't too enthused about that fact! I also ran into Marleen at the shuttle drop off point - it was good to see her. I really love running into classmates. I still have yet to work on the RJ, since OE. Anyone else 100% Saab? Are we all working lots of hours the first week of July??? Apparently, that was what the schedule delays were all about: too much opentime that week. I have two back-to-back 3 day trips, so I will not be joining my extended family at the cabin at Brainerd, even for a day or two. Oh well! Can't say I didn't expect it! Take care you guys, and keep posting messages!

Message from Mary on Thu Jun 26 18:51:36 2003

Can someone please direct me to a pilot that is not married?

Message from Shaun on Thu Jun 26 16:36:41 2003

Hey All... Schedules finally came out! I hope you all got good schedules for July. Dont forget you can trade with open time once its updated. That will probably be on the 30th. You just have to trade evenly. Say you have a high speed which is two days of flying, you can trade that for a 2 day for more hours...and they DON'T have to be on the same days. You can also drop a 4 day for 2 (2) days. As long as its even. Just fill out a trip trade form and for in the area where the person you are trading with just write "OPEN TIME" Open time is available on your INFLIGHT page on MYMESABA. They update it twice a day. Use this to your advantage, you can only do this when you are a lineholder, not with reserve schedules. Don't forget too if you need a day off you can also trade PART of your trip away, you dont have to trade the whole thing. Just fill out a trip trade and on the bottom explain which part you want to drop. Then just post it in your breakroom. What will happen is if someone takes it they will sign it and fax it then put a copy in your mailbox. You have to call scheduling to find out if it was approved. Its also helpful if you put your number on the trip trade so the person who took it can call you. (so you dont have to go in on your day off to check it) I hope all this info helps, you can make a bad schedule into a real nice one if you trade, drop or add. Like I said before this is the only month you can trade with OPEN TIME. Then again when you start holding a line. I hope everyone is having a good time. Hang in there, reserve can be rough. Just try to make the best of it. Its worth it when you start holding a line. Take care everyone and FLY SAFE. Oh and Nikki, have your prints come back yet? I havent heard from ya in a while.

Message from Karen on Thu Jun 26 16:34:07 2003

The July schedules are finally posted! Wow they really had some computer problems I guess. The site was completely down for a while, then a notice was posted saying the schedules were delayed, but now they are finally there. How are your schedules? Did you get anything close to what you bid for? I got the 19th off that I wanted, because we are going to a wedding, but otherwise, nothing I bid for! And it is all 100% saab! Two weeks it is all high-speeds too. How about you guys? Right now I'm sitting home on reserve for the second day in a row without a call. That's ok too, I don't mind have some time at home here!

Message from Pam on Tue Jun 24 21:40:11 2003

Hi Everyone The schedule isn't coming out until tomorrow. I overheard someone who works in the office here in DTW and she said that someone screwed up and that the schedule won't be posted till tomorrow

Message from Karen on Tue Jun 24 18:41:19 2003

Has anyone accessed their July schedule online yet? I thought they were going to be posted by 5:00 Central time today, but all I see is June still! Am I looking in the wrong place? Thanks for any input!

Message from Mary on Tue Jun 24 18:32:50 2003

FYI- I am still alive.

Message from Karen on Tue Jun 24 09:31:22 2003

Hi again everyone! Just thought I'd pass along a couple of items here - you probably are aware there is a new Initial Training class that started yesterday, but guess what else! On the web site Mesaba is advertising FIVE upcoming Open Houses: 2 for DTW, 2 for CVG, and one for MSP (this week and next) - to me that sounds like another new hire class after this one! Maybe we'll start slowly inching our way up the seniority list after all! (I hear the turnover is what's going to kill us though - just when you move up, people below you quit!) But I thought that was an encouraging sign I would pass along to you all. Another item - when you post to this board, if your message is quite long it might not work. Break it into smaller units and I can combine it into one message the next time I see it if I am at home. So don't despair if it doesn't seem to work - just do a cut/paste operation to split it up. Thanks. Again, I am enjoying hearing everyone's experiences. I feel pretty good about the Saab after that 3 day trip, but have yet to "solo" on the RJ. At least there will be another FA on board so that's a little reassuring. Today I am off, tomorrow back to Reserve. See ya!

Message from Marleen on Tue Jun 24 05:25:09 2003

Hello everyone! How great to hear of your adventures. I'm sorry it took me so long to post something. My SAAB OE was great! I had the kind of experience I was hoping for, a "crawl, walk, run" type of day. No crazy stories, but I did have a girl give me a hug at the end of one of the flights, and all of the PAXs on one flight clapped after I did one of my announcements! (You think they could tell I was in training?) I told them they were all too kind and offered free soft drinks and pretzels for everyone! I think the most challenging part for me was seeing how quickly everything takes place on the SAAB. I'm going to really have to get a rhythm down. Next, the RJ...My RJ OE seemed more like a lesson in what not to do, or, what we do differently from what we learned in school. You know me, I was twitching because I wasn't doing things by-the-book! But, I just finished my first solo flight, a 3 day RJ trip, and feel better about the work flow. Conversely from the SAAB, I was surprised at how much time there is on the RJ after you close the door and before you take off. PLENTY of time to clean up the FC service, get a drink of water, and jaw jack with the other FA. I had Johnny Lang on one of my flights (too bad I didn't know who he was-one of the PAXs asked about him.) On my RJ trip, I did have problems with a CRS with no stickers, a seatbelt-extender issue (wanted to use his own!), and several meal services. But seriously, what a job! I'm having a blast so far! I hope you all are too. I'm CVG Airport Ready Reserve today, so I've got a book and 9 hours to kill. Keep posting, guys and gals, and I'll do the same! Miss you all!!

Message from Pam on Mon Jun 23 10:13:56 2003

Hey all just got back from a two day! They called me in Saturday morning and so I flew all day Saturday, spent the night in Moline then all day yesterday. We dead headed to Dayton spending the night there, guys what a dump! The rooms were "OK" but it's right there next the airport and nothing to do. They said they would have taken us somewhere but my crew had just come back from a vacation and wanted to get some sleep so they were too tired to go anywhere and didn't feel like going by myself. Flew back this morning and the girl who I replaced cause she had called in sick came in and took the rest of her legs so they sent me home. I'm still on reserves today and tomorrow then off for next two days. Things are going ok, Karen I too had to do some re-shuffling a family of 4 and a little oriental woman who was late boarding who was assigned to 1A. When I asked if she understood my instructions she just smiled and said yes so when I asked her to repeat what I had said she continued to smile and say "yes" too funny talk about musical chairs that was fun!! I did spill orange juice on a guy this morning!!! Yes Joseph I was a smokeaholic that day! It did get to me a bit cause both days I was doing the OE trying to remember everything and between that and the lightening/bird thing I was shaken in my boots! Ran into Angela, Nadine and Heather this morning. Nadine and Heather had just got back from a high speed and Angela was on a 9 hour duty for the day. She still hasn't flown yet by herself so she was anxious.

Message from Karen on Sat Jun 21 19:01:24 2003

Hi everyone! I'm at the hotel in Pierre SD right now (they have a laptop in the lobby). I am on night #2 of a 3 day trip. It is going well - a few little learning experiences along the way of course. For one thing, I had never been on an A or B model Saab before (not counting the night they smoked the cabin - or tried to rather). So it was very fun (!) learning my way around the galley, and experiencing the fun of maneuvering that cart in and out of its spot! Right away out of Peoria this morning, nice full flight, I had an elderly lady assigned seat 1C, ON PURPOSE, for the leg room I think! She was adamant that the CSA put her there for that reason! I told her I had to ask the captain, but of course I knew what he was going to say! So there I am rearranging people. She ended up needing a seatbelt extender too, so that's 2 strikes against the exit row! She even was down for a wheelchair at the gate! Then on 2 flights today I had to rearrange pax for weight and balance. And another flight there was a child assigned an exit row! What is the deal! Actually out of 5 flights today, I had one flight where I did NOT have to rearrange people! Other than that, things have pretty routine, I'm getting "in the groove" I think. I ran into SaDee in the crew room, she was coming in from a High Speed and she has another tonight! Thanks everyone for posting to the board - I am really enjoying reading it! See you in the crew room!

Message from Joseph on Sat Jun 21 09:00:20 2003

Nikki I think I would put the pig in the jumpseat and let him/her do the announcments:)!! You are so funny asking me that!

Message from Nikki on Sat Jun 21 01:58:05 2003

Joseph, I miss you so much! Have you encountered any pot-bellied pigs on any of your flights?! And if so, where might one put one?! (Just for clarification...) ;)Nik

Message from Joseph on Fri Jun 20 23:54:00 2003

Hi Everyone!! Karen, Thanks so much for doing this website. It is so much fun to read the stories everyone has. Pam, how many cigs did you have after your incidents!! Honey, I bet you were puffing them! I am now finished with OE and I must say everything went real well. My OE instructor was great. Nikki, hang in there. Oh, I do have one story to tell...a pax got real, real, real, angry at the FA because she gave him a dirty pillow (she was not aware of it being dirty) He made a big scene and finally when we landed there was **** hitting the ceiling...the Captain came out and straighten it all out..the man was trying to take the pillow for proof that it was dirty............kinda sounds like a Monic Lewinsky thing to me...LOL

Message from Pam on Fri Jun 20 10:03:16 2003

Good luck Karen, let us know how your first Saab Solo went! I'm on reserve starting tomorrow. Someone told me that you can call Crew voice if you haven't heard anything from then and check to see if you are scheduled before they call. She said that she does this often and within the next couple of hours they do call. Just a little FYI.

Message from Karen on Thu Jun 19 20:41:03 2003

Ok guys, here I go! After sitting here on reserve for two days with no call, I finally got a call tonight to start a 3 day trip in the morning on the Saab! I'll let you know how it goes. I'm so happy to see all the postings on this board, I look forward to checking it and hearing from you guys!

Message from Shaun on Thu Jun 19 13:48:45 2003

Hey everyone! Sorry I haven't posted anything for awhile. I just moved up here to Michigan so I had to wait for my internet connection to get set up! Its great to hear from all of you about your OE's. Everyone sounds like they had a good time. Nothing major happened on my OE, which is suprising because when I flew before it seemed like I always had a black cloud over me so to speak. There was always something on every trip. But hey, it gave me experience I guess. Hang in there Nikki your clearance will come soon enough. I am sure its been crazy having to sit around and wait for it. I waited 2 months for my fingerprints came back. I think it all depends on how good of a print they get. Karen, I am so glad you created this site, its great for everyone to keep in touch. So Paul Foley was on your flight, huh? I would have been so nervous. I am sure you did a great job on that flight! :-) Oh by the way Karen thanks for adding more pictures to the site. Gotta the love the one with me in the apron! hehe. Well I hope you guys have a great first trip on your own when they call you! I know Mary already got called for a 4 day trip, and she blocks 27 hours on it! Keep in touch everyone...and as always FLY SAFE and HAVE FUN!

Message from Pam on Thu Jun 19 09:24:05 2003

Hi all, in response to SaDee's message....she is right Nikki! The Saab trips are so fast with the turn around's that you barely have time to go through the plane after the pax's have left that they start to board again! It also depends on who your OE is,I had three different one's with three different personalities!! Just be your sweet self and try to relax and you will be fine! So far we all have made it through and survived and you will too. I heard from Mary last night but was asleep when she called, I should call her this morning and WAKE her up!! LOL. Anyways she is done with her OE is leaving on a Saab trip (thats all I remember of the conversation, I had been up since 4 am.) I got an e-mail from Lona it was great to hear from her.

Message from SaDee on Wed Jun 18 09:49:54 2003

Nikki, while you're waiting go over the procedures on the Saab and Avro. I think that was the hardest thing for OE. Just like the timing of it all and the differences from the Saab and Avro. My head was just spinning!! It all happens so fast!! Plus, on top of that they try to quiz you on stuff. It was overwhelming to me. Anyway, I've had a few nice days off and feel refreshed and ready to get back out there. I love being able to be in touch with you guys!!! This is a GREAT support system. I'm excited to hear about everyones experiences!!!

Message from Nikki on Tue Jun 17 13:36:34 2003

Hey everyone :) Good to hear all of your interesting stories! I am STILL waiting on my clearance, and I am so anxious!(Not to mention bored out of my mind...) I'd really appreciate any prayers (and/or special thoughts channeled towards the FBI, to get their butts moving on this thing!) LOL...Anyways, thanks, and keep us posted on what's going on out there in the skies! :) Nikki

Message from Pam on Tue Jun 17 09:35:11 2003

Congrats everyone on becoming an Official FA! SaDee your OE sounded fun hope you saved those little treasures the passangers gave you! (except the Sick Sak LOL) Hey Karen thanks again for setting up this message page, it's great to hear from everyone. Nikki, hope your security clearence comes through soon I know your anxious to get started. Well hopefully tomorrow I'll be signed off, I have the same OE that Shaun had. He called Sunday night and said he was starting his OE Monday. I go to Traverse City, MI then to White Plans, NY. I am glad that I was able to experience the lightening and dealing with the bird population over Flint, MI (poor bird.) I was talking to Steve from PBS IS yesterday while setting up my bid. He said that it was good experience for me to have this happen right at the beginning cause all your training is still fresh in your mind and now I know what it's like if something like that might happen again. Hope to hear more stories from everyone.......see you in the skys!

Message from SaDee on Mon Jun 16 23:22:08 2003

Wow, I'm an official FA now too! My OE's are done. It was an amazing experience! I was so glad to get a day off today though because it was such a busy week, huh?! I finally got PBS set up tonight. I just got off the phone with IS Help Desk and he has an opening and he wants me to come in...heh heh heh...I told him I want to be a FA now, maybe later I'll be a computer geek some more. Anyway, I can't believe the experiences you guys have been having already!! CEO's, lightning, bird mangling, near misses-sheesh!! My stuff is dull now! On my first Saab OE one of the passengers gave the pilot a letter saying what great service he got, that I worked very hard and did everything right and will be a great FA. On another flight a guy fashioned a rose out of his napkin and presented it to me. I had a near medical emergency. Just as I started service a women chimed me so I went over and she was sort of panicky asking me if there were any candy bars on the plane. I didn't think I should come right out and say, 'Are you diabetic?' so I asked if it was for a medical emergency (I know, I'm a dork!) but she said, 'Yes', so I talked to my training and she got a bit stressed and tried to give her sugar packets while I was offering OJ but the lady waved all that off so I said let's break out the Emergency Snack Kit! So the lady took two of the granola bars and I got to write up an Inflight Incident Report, yippee! Other passengers on departure said I did great in handling the situation because I was really calm, where as my OE trainer was kinda hyper. She called the FD and the pilots got excited and wanted to do an emergency landing! They were such cool guys!! (Mary, should I have just directly asked her if she was diabetic?) It turned out she was feeling shaky, sweaty, and faint but was not diabetic. I think it was the right thing to give her the granola bars! I had a young guy on another flight hand me his filled-to-the-brim sick sac. Poor guy. He was still all sweaty and I tried to give him a drink but he said he just needed fresh air. We did have a lot of turbulence on that flight and it was super hot so I was determined to finish service to give those last people something to drink! So far all the pilots have been sooooooooooo great. One captain bought me an ice cream sandwich in Sioux Falls, another one bought me a beer in DSM on my overnight (don't worry it we didn't have to leave the hotel until 2 pm the next day!). Bring your swimming suit to DSM on overnights because there's a pool and hot tub! Looking forward to hearing more about all of your adventures in the sky!!!

Message from Karen on Tue Jun 17 07:20:50 2003

Wow, Pam I can't believe about your adventures! All that on your OE!! Too bad you couldn't get it finished up yet, but pretty soon you'll have that done too. I have today off (as I have the last two days) but tomorrow I start a stretch of 5 reserve days! I miss you guys and I look forward to hearing more from you all!

Message from Laura on Sun Jun 15 18:13:44 2003

Hey everyone! I hope that all is going good for you all. I finished up on all of my OE's today and got signed off. So now I guess I am officially on my own. Nikki- I hope that everything comes through for you soon, it must be a little nerve wrecking to be waiting around. Joseph- Good luck to you on Monday, I hope that everything goes smoothly for you, and I know that you'll do a great job. Like Karen said, I ran into her and also Marleen on Saturday, it was good to see some familiar faces out there! Karen- Yes there was a missed approach, only because there was an airbus on the runway and it didn't get off in time for our landing, so we had to go around and wait. Nothing really big happend on my OE, it was pretty usual, and a very good but tiring experience. I'm spending the rest of the day relaxing with my family for father's day! I hope that you all are doing well, and things go great in the future. Hope to talk to you and see you soon!

Message from Pam on Sun Jun 15 18:07:51 2003

Hi everyone.............miss you guys!!! What an exciting OE's I had. My first day coming back from Bloomington on the SAAB lightening hit us! My OE was sitting in the jumpseat and she leans over and ever so discretely ask me to look out the window and see if there is smoke coming out of the left engine (with a smile I might add) No smoke but the caption did inform us that there might be a "situation" while landing cause sometimes it causes a flat wheel. Sure glad those 10 steps were still fresh in my mind!!! Well we landed ok.......so.......the next day was the RJ. We take off for our first leg to Flint, MI and hit a bird...a big bird! You guys remember those pictures they showed us on power point, well they were right cause thats what it looks like feathers and blood. They grounded our plane and ship up back to Detroit on a Northwest flight (Pennicle bumped us even though we had postive seating which is another issue but don't think I have enough room here.) We get back to Detroit and only had time to do my last leg. I have to finish my OE this coming Wednesday. My instructors were great but just wish I didn't have so much to tell at once! I ran into Heather, Kim and Dora all are doing ok.

Message from Karen on Sun Jun 15 08:32:24 2003

Joseph, I'll be thinking of you on Monday - Good Luck and have fun! I finished up the Saab last night - whew! Long day, but I got signed off on it, so now Crew Scheduling said I'll have a couple days off and then they'll call me with my June schedule. Yesterday morning I rode the shuttle with the guy that taught us the PBS bidding (Steve) as he was on his way to do Laura's OE, so then I saw Laura at the crew room and then a couple hours later - Laura and I were back at MSP and we saw Marleen in the crew room too. And I also saw Janelle - she was flying too! So yesterday I had a few reunions, and I look forward to more of them. Laura: what's this I hear about you guys had a missed approach?? What's up with that! Tell us about it please! Good luck on your OE's everyone!

Message from Joseph on Sat Jun 14 20:25:05 2003

Hi Everyone. I miss you guys. I fly Monday on the RJ and I am so excited. I have been home in Branson, MO having so much fun and resting. Nikki I am still thinking about you and I hope the fingerprinting comes through! I know that it will . Karen, I am so happy for you. Are you now comfortable on the RJ? I will keep in touch. Take care

Message from Karen on Fri Jun 13 22:31:10 2003

Wow Nikki, I didn't know you had to wait for your fingerprinting! Any idea when that will be?? I got signed off on the RJ today! The flight out to White Plains was soooo much work up in First Class! But that's ok - I'd rather have it that way for the OE with the instructor there, instead of being all alone the first time that would happen. I had all 16 seats full and we served a meal, and everyone wanted wine, water, coffee, all the time! Typical of the White Plains crowd I hear. Today coming back we served a breakfast, I had only 11 people and it was much more calm. I took over the jumpseat for the landing into White Plains last night. Guess who was on my flight to HPN???? Paul Foley (CEO of Mesaba Holdings)!!!! Yep, right there in 3A. How's that for pressure! It went fine though - told me I did a good job when he got off - he knew I was in training. My OE instructor was really great too, it was a good experience. Anxious to hear about everyone else's OE's too! Tomorrow: 6 legs on the Saab!

Message from Nikki on Fri Jun 13 17:35:20 2003

Hey everyone :) Hope all is going well with all your IOE's! I am still waiting for my fingerprinting/ security clearance to come back, so when that happens, I'll be able to start mine as well...I'm so anxious, I just want to start flying! Anyone have any funny stories yet? Let us know! Talk to you all soon, and take care. I miss you!! :) Nikki ps- I will try to send some pictures soon Karen, so you can put them on this site :)

Message from Shaun on Fri Jun 13 16:13:47 2003

Hey everyone! Hope you guys are all having a great time on your OE's :-) Just posting a message to let everyone know of my new phone numbers because of the move. My new home number is 734-728-3898 and my cell number is 734-355-3312. The 814-323-7488 will still work for about another month. Happy flying everyone and FLY SAFE!

Message from Karen on Tue Jun 10 18:39:23 2003

Hey guys - Graduation was great! We got our wings! I hope you guys are having good flights back home, and I bet it is good to get back after all these weeks away. Good luck on the OE's and I look forward to reading on this board, how it goes! I start Thursday with an overnight on the RJ in White Plains, NY!