The EAL Radio Show

________________________________________

Christine Negroni 

Sent: Wednesday, September 23, 2020 7:44 PM

To: Dorothy Gagnon

Subject: Re: Appreciate Your Invitation

Hi Dorothy,

I'm so glad you and Don were able to see the film, though I'm sorry there were technical problems. I was actually very surprised that it didn't hitch up on my end. 

Invisible Sky is a provocative presentation and worth discussing from the 10k foot level. Jeff is always a font of experience and I enjoy talking to him. 

Take care and I wish you the best. 

Christine Negroni

Author of the NY Times bestseller The Crash Detectives Investigating the World’s Most Mysterious Air Disasters

________________________________________

On Wed, Sep 23, 2020 at 1:24 PM 

Dorothy Gagnon <dcdjgagnon@comcast.net> wrote:

Christine,

Thank you so much for hosting the Webinar last night. Unfortunately, even though our sound was working, We had issues with the ZOOM audio of the Webinar. Gerry Maravilla of INVISIBLE SKY, worked to adjust but to no avail, so we didn't get to hear your opening statements. However, to further miss the entire program we turned on our cell phones and used the audio to listen to the rest of the interesting points about air safety and the NTSB investigation process.

The video and explanation of all the happenings were sad to think that the NTSB's investigation didn't find out until so much later that the Pilot did not cause the accident. In fact, as we heard, the Pilot prevented a collision with another airplane instead and unfortunately saved an air crash collision, but in doing so placed her airplane in harm's way and crashed causing fatalities. Seeing the final investigation gave all evidence that it was more of an issue with the Control Tower. We all continue to ask the question, why is it that the Pilot is always thought to be at fault?

We too enjoyed hearing you with the Q & A with Jeff Guzzitti, formerly of the NTSB and FAA as the questions you presented and the discussion that ensued, were excellent. We on the EAL Radio Show appreciate your expertise on this topic and thank you so much for encouraging us and our members to join in on the Webinar.

Our appreciation once again for the invitation and we send our deepest sympathy to the families impacted.

Dorothy and Don

From: Paul Sigmon

Sent: Thursday, May 28, 2020, 9:41:20 AM EDT

Subject: Re: EARA

I thought you would like to know that the Miami Historical Museum does want the EAL material and the Smithsonian Museum is taking this offer to their board today to see if they can use the items with their present EAL material.  Thanks and take care.

 ______________________________________________

From: normajean borger 

Date: May 24, 2020 at 11:04:08 AM EDT

Subject: August 31 1964. Was that really 56 years ago

Imagine going to a yard sale and running into someone you met on the first day of your new job 56 years ago. And...his wife.

Norma

Sent from my iPad

From: Constance Kerrigan

To: Neal Holland <enealholland@yahoo.com>; Colleen DeFelice <cadefelice421@gmail.com>

Sent: Tuesday, April 28, 2020, 10:50:04 AM EDT

Subject: Radio Show

Good Morning,

I listened to the whole thing - definitely needs to be made into a movie!  It's wonderful to know that even though we are not "that" Eastern, the Eastern name continues to instill loyalty and pride.

Thanks for all you do..

Conni

______________________________________________

From: Constance Kerrigan <constancekerrigan@yahoo.com>
To:Silverliners
Cc: Neal Holland <enealholland@yahoo.com>
Sent: Monday, April 27, 2020, 10:01:37 AM EDT
Subject: FGC Update #6 and the EAL Radio Show

Good Morning and welcome ?? to Week 6 of our isolation. I have to say, I don't feel isolated. I communicate with friends and family every day. I see u-tube videos of every kind as well ascartoons, humorous postings and beautiful messages on Facebook. How fortunate we are to have  the technology in this day and age to stay in touch.

In 1918 my great-grandmother, who immigrated from Sweden to the US, perished in the Spanish Flu pandemic. She left five children with no father. They did not have the government programs or thecommunication opportunities we have now. They most certainly did not have any stimulus program.  I share this because I feel very fortunate to be living in America during this challenging time.

And for those of you who are not familiar with the EAL Radio Show, I think the episode tonight is worth tuning in to. Our own chapter member, Colleen DeFelice, participates as well as being ourSilverliner liaison. If you plan on tuning in, you might want to drop Colleen an email and let her know.

 As always, I hope all are well - no more "sonia's" and are making plans when we can have ourHavana Nights/COVID-19 coming out party!

Conni

Martina Tchorz On Saturday, April 25, 2020,

Dear friends,

Thank you for providing all the information and the script.

Another Eastern Flight just brought the next group home from Buenos Aires yesterday. Once of the family that we've befriended in Ushuaia just came home safely. They came a week behind, believing that the flights will resume later on in April and then in May, so they waited, however once we got home safely, they have decided to come back as well. So, the Eastern brought them home. They landed on time and in good spirits. All went well. Thank you Eastern.

Let me know if I need to do anything else. 

Hope you are all safe. Wishing you a good night. Talk to you tomorrow.

Best, 
Martina Tchorz

From: Marti Tchorz

Date: Monday, 4/20/2020 7:58 PM

To: enealholland@yahoo.com; DCDJGagnon

Good evening Captain Neal,

Thank you for making the room for our family with your radio and Eastern family. It is good to be home, although I live to travel and unless, I hope, nothing will ever stop me from continuing. 

Having said that I would be more than happy to share our story, although may get some jitters and hope you can coach me. I'm sure I'm in good hands. 

Knowing how busy you must be, it may be best for you to call me when it's convenient for you. My direct number is Marti Tchorz

I don't have any immediate travel plans, so April 27th is good. 

Best regards,

Martina Tchorz 

 Sent from AT&T Yahoo Mail on Android

______________________________________________

On Mon., 20 Apr. 2020 at 1:25 pm, Everett Holland

<enealholland@yahoo.com> wrote:

Martina,

I’m sure the words of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr’s. speech rings true for you and your family: “Home at last, home at last, thank Almighty God, I’m home at last.”  We, at the EAL Radio Show share this feeling with you and yours.  I always anticipated going on a trip, but felt better thinking of coming home.  As we have heard, “There’s no place like home.”

And, on that same thought, we hope you have found a new family to come to anytime you have a need – Eastern Airlines, and more specifically, the Eastern Airlines Radio Show of Eastern people. As to when you would be available to come on the radio show and share your story with our listeners, just tell us what works for you.  You might consider next Monday, April 27th at 7:00 pm EDT. We can move that show back so that we can share this remarkable story as soon as possible. 

I look forward to hearing from you and I’m sure our listeners will too.  Thank you so very much for keeping us informed during this very difficult time.  You can reach me by phone at 904-866-8114, or I can call you at your best number and time.

Sincerely,

Neal Holland (Everett Neal Holland)

Producer, EAL Radio Show

Sent from AT&T Yahoo Mail on Android
______________________________________________

From: Marti Tchorz
To: DCDJGagnon
Cc: "Everett Holland"; "Mark Porter"
Subject: Re: Thank You For Photos - Update, Martina on Eastern Flight in Buenos Aires
Date: Sunday, April 19, 2020 3:32:33 AM

Dear Friends,

We are honored to be a part of the Eastern family. Your kind words and the support throughout this journey mean so much to us. We are humbled by your generosity to adopt us to your wonderful Eastern family and bring us home.

As we landed in Miami - currently sitting at the airport, awaiting an onward flight to ORD (Chicago, IL), I am taking this time to write back and thank you for all you've done for us.

Sitting at Buenos Aires airport, we were anxiously  awaiting the Eastern Crew while looking at the plane - standing right there, in front of us (as shown on the pictures previously forwarded) - there it was - Eastern Airlines. And, as we were talking to other travelers, exchanging our stories. I saw one crew member walking to the boarding area - I sprinted to meet him. I apologized, introduced myself to him and asked if he wouldn't mind me taking his picture. He laughed and said that all the crew is walking down the sleeve and they all have to do the routine briefing - going over the protocol. I thanked him and thought - well, maybe I'll try to take few pics once on board.

A while later, the same crew member - now I know his name - Rafael, looked around the waiting area, spotted me and came over stating: "Please come aboard, everyone is waiting for you - are you with Eastern? so I told him the story as we were walking on to the plane - he already got a clearance for me to come aboard (still way before the plane was ready to board the passengers) - so we walked on to the plane. The main flight attendant was giving last directives to the crew, the captain and co-pilot were sitting in the cockpit. Rafael took me straight to the pilots, introduced me and we had a little chat. Next few pics (smiling under the face masks) with the pilots, then the crew - everyone, joining together as one team, with the pilots and then with me. You could not see the smiles under the masks, but trust me, they were all smiling. All of them!. It was such a wonderful moment. I thanked all to allow me to share their time and walked back to the waiting room. I then immediately sent the pictures to you. 

Once on the plane - we (Jack, Em and I) were in the first row - we were able to be close to the crew. I've flown a lot in my life (or at least what I think it's a lot, considering I'm not in anyway connected (until now) to the airline industry), but I have to tell you - I have never seen before a crew that is so close as this team was. Everyone truly seemed to not just enjoy what they do, but also enjoy each other's company. Vega - one of the flight attendants - confirmed that in a conversation with me. He's been working for Eastern for 6 years now and is so proud to be a part of the Eastern. He never knows where will the next assignment take him, but he loves working for Eastern. Rafael, who so kindly let me come on board before the flight, kept a close watch on the flight. He confirmed Vega's words - he is proud to be a part of Eastern's team. What an extraordinary attestation to a great company.

The flight was smooth, the pilot and the crew very informative and attentive - considering the special flight (very limited service) and the environmental precautionary requirements. The 9 hours (and some min) just "FLEW" by - the weather cooperating, we were able to see some wonderful scenery from way up above through the clear skies. 

Landing in Miami all showed their gratitude. Once passed through the passport control, while waiting for their luggage I could hear the passengers saying thank you when the crew was passing by. You should just see the huge smiles on the crews faces (yes some were visible, even with the masks on). It was a great feeling. It was a feeling of joy, of encouragement, of accomplishment. And as they crew (Miami based - as all told me) went home to rest for two days, they all said - "Until the next assignment - we will fly until we bring everyone home". 

So, dear friends, as we made it to our Homeland, we still have to get home to Illinois, but are grateful for your support, your encouragement, your assistance and prayers. We are well and happy; we are happy and proud to share this journey with our Eastern family.

We certainly give our permission to share this voyage with all your listeners and anyone you'd like to share it with. 

I will also send few more pictures that will complete the story of this trip and will try to reach out to the main media (hopefully someone will be interested in listening :)

Also, I will definitely reach out to Captain Neal once we get home (there are no flights out of Miami - two Eastern flights arrived from South America:Buenos Aires and Lima - in the evening of April 18th) until the morning and we hope to get home some time in the afternoon on April 19th) and get all settled and rested. 

Our sincere gratitude to all of you.

Sincerely,

Martina, Jack and Emili Tchorz

On Saturday, April 18, 2020, 04:06:23 PM CDT, DCDJGagnon <dcdjgagnon@comcast.net> wrote:

From: Marti Tchorz
To: "Mark Porter"; "Everett Holland"; "Emi T."; DCDJGagnon

Dear Friends,

Thank you for such a kind and encouraging letter. Your support has been our pillar and the strength through this journey. 

Mark - we hope your surgery went well and you will feel as good as new soon. Wishing you speedy recovery - Sending good thoughts and prayers.  

We, here, still have to obtain travel documents and will be working with the US Embassy to secure these, but can't wait to be on board of EAL - and meet the crew. We certainly will make every effort to get a picture - if allowed - and forward it on to you.

All - we have been very lucky being adopted by the EAL family - especially Captain Neal, Mark, Dorothy, Don, and all your EAL listeners. 

Best regards,

Marti T

On Tuesday, April 14, 2020, 04:11:31 PM CDT, DCDJGagnon <dcdjgagnon@comcast.net> wrote:
______________________________________________

From: DCDJGagnon [dcdjgagnon@comcast.net]
Sent: Tuesday, April 14, 2020 5:11 PM
To: 'Marti Tchorz'
Cc: 'Mark Porter'; 'Everett Holland'; 'Emi T.'
Subject: Glad to Hear You're in Buenos Aires -RE: How Are Things Going? 

Martina, and family,

I sent a note to Neal last evening as soon as I got your E‐mail and Neal said "What a lengthy narrative of their plight" as he as well as Don and I can't believe reading what you folks have gone through. None of us can even imagine what you have endured all this time. I will touch base with Mark Porter to let him know you're in Buenos Aires, as he had surgery yesterday, and we're waiting to hear how he made out.

We are so happy to hear from you and thrilled that you are in Buenos Aires. More so, that you arranged for a return flight from Brazil to the U.S. with Eastern Airlines. We count our blessings that you got this far and going into the next phase of your journey to fly home. Knowing now that you arranged for Eastern Airlines to get you home
from Buenos Aires is wonderful, especially after they rearranged their previous scheduled March 31 flight to April 3, 2020 and the Argentina Air Force wasn't able to land in Ushuaia and you missed your flight... seems like a long time ago.

All of us here have had so much hope, as I'm sure you did too. What you have gone through to get this far is beyond comprehension. You and your family have had a very drastic experience and captured the hearts of our
Eastern family. We all keep our prayers ongoing to bring this to the next level of a flight home. Thank you and your family for the courage you maintained all this time, and never allowing yourselves to despair, but kept forging on to get yourselves travel arrangements out of South America. We will pray that all works out well and you are met in Buenos Airport by Eastern Airlines.

Too, we would love to have a photo of Eastern Airlines at that airport to show our Eastern Family that Eastern is always there to help. Better yet of the three (3) of you climbing those Eastern steps to see you Board. What a sight for us to see and we can't wait until that happens for you folks.

We'll look forward to your next E‐mail and that you're on your way to boarding that EAL Flight April 18, 2020 and will be home safe and sound soon.

Dorothy on behalf of Captain Neal, Don Mark, our Team of Host and
everyone in our Eastern family send you our thoughts, prayers and words
of encouragement.

We are Eastern and we love you!

Dorothy Cronin Gagnon
EAL Radio Show Host & Webmaster
E-mail: dcdjgagnon@comcast.net

_____________________________________________

From: Marti Tchorz
To: "Mark Porter"; "Everett Holland"; "Emi T."; DCDJGagnon
Subject: Re: How Are Things Going? RE: Does Eastern Have the Route to Fly to Ushiania Airport:? FW: Rescue
Date: Monday, April 13, 2020 11:00:15 PM

Dear Friends,

Very sorry for the delays in sending the updates. Hope you are all well and everyone is doing good. Lots has happened and we were very busy trying to organize, arrange and work things out - the good news - we just arrived in Buenos Aires very late last night on Aerolineas Argentinas.

Let me start from the beginning. As you know, the Military flight organized by the Argentinian government never materialized; well at least for us - as they did bring in some of the Fueguinos back to Ushuaia, they did not pick up any passengers to bring to Buenos Aires, despite supposed agreement with the multiple Embassies. 

We went back to our Airbnb, however the next day were moved to a hotel, where quite a few of the stranded tourists/passengers were housed. You already know, that at the hotel we've met some "Kiwis" (NZ), Britts, Aussies etc and most of all quite a few Argentinians that were going to be on the same flight, however... you know the rest.

You may also remember that an employer group (for the fillmakers - the group from NZ, Australia and UK) organized a charter flight (the company paid for it) and they left the next day to Buenos Aires. The rest of us, including few Japanese, two Kiwis, a UK couple and another US family remained in Ushuaia. 

All the stranded created many different Chat groups on the WhatsApp app and news, information, pleas, prayers and all started pouring. Messages compiling, the connections renewed - you tube videos, radio interviews and other media posts emerged. People were determined. A lady from NZ (originally from San Diego, CA - now living in NZ for the last 15 years), had a full interview on a NZ radio. The Governor of Tierra Del Fuego province was challenged for not doing enough. In a televised statement, he promised that he's doing everything he can to bring everyone home, but he's also trying to protect everyone.

After bombarding all the media with lists of stranded people, the Argentinian government has promised a flight to/from Ushuaia. People didn't believe it. In the meanwhile, the German Embassy has started organizing a bus (similar to what the French Embassy did a little over a week before). The NZ, UK and Australian Embassies joined in. The Studebakers (the US family) and us, contacted the US Embassy to inquire about the bus. The US Embassy started working with the German Embassy. The other nationalities received the information about the bus, the letters to travel and were preparing to leave on Sunday (April 12th,) at 2 am. We were also hoping to get on, although the cruel 60 H trip was not going to be easy, it was a way out. The trip now getting finalized, we still did not have any info from the US Embassy, and now the news through the Argentinian group chat emerged that the flight is being put together also for April 12th. We reached out to the US Embassy, but they had no knowledge of it.

I kept checking the Aerolineas Argentinas website, as we kept hearing that for sure there will be two flights. On Thursday, April 9th, we got the message through the WhatsApp group chat, to send message to the Airlines and provide original booking# and ticket#s and ask to be placed on this flight. We did just that, but still kept checking the portal. The flight schedule appeared and I again (for the forth time - we have three other tickets that we never received a refund for) bought the tickets for April 12th -One day was only showing. There were a lot of skeptics and lot of people did not make the purchase. I took a chance. The people who were on the bus list were upset, us not taking the bus, was driving the price of the bus tickets up. However, we still had no information from the US or German Embassy that we were on the list for the bus. Only info we had about the bus was from Nicole - the American NZ who received the list and the travel documents from the NZ Embassy.

Once we got the tickets, we received a call from US Embassy asking if we were contacted by the German Embassy. Told them no, so they have initiated a contact, however at this time we have told both US and German Embassies that we have purchased the tickets for the flight. US Embassy stated that they have not heard about the flight and will check into it, but they feel that we should go on the bus.

In the meanwhile, the Argentinian group chat, the Tourist agency that Em was chatting with, the hotel staff were all stating that the flight was confirmed. We reached out to the US Embassy to request travel documents - even though were not sure. The US Embassy stated that a hotel is reserved in Buenos Aires for all traveling by bus. But it was expensive. We found out about a lady in Buenos Aires that helped the French Bus travelers get apartments in BA while waiting for their flights home. So we have contacted her. She was so helpful. 

Reached back out to the US Embassy, still no word about any possible flight to US. I e-mailed Eastern directly and asked for adding a flight. We were all on pins and needles. Everyone we knew already got their travel documents - we did not. The Studebakers opted out, but once the flight to BA was confirmed, there were no seats left, so they could no longer buy the tickets. At the same time we got the message from Aerolineas Argentinas, that there is no space - this was a response to our message (when sending the original booking and tickets #s to transfer to this flight), so I was so glad I bought the tickets.

Late Friday night, the US Embassy now stated we had to resend all our information and formally request the travel documents and they will have to request permission with the Argentinian government. So we did that again, worrying, as this was Easter weekend. Everything was closed. By late Saturday, all that were traveling by bus were getting ready, we still didn't know. Finally very late Saturday the papers came. We scrambled to print. 

Everyone had to have individual letter stating the purpose of traveling to the airport, have boarding pass printed, have permission to travel to BA and to stay in BA w/out the onward flight - which is not permitted. I also kept checking the Eastern Airlines website. And there it was late Saturday, a new flight to Miami was announced for April 18th. Bought the tickets immediately.

Easter Sunday in the early morning, we were gathered by the hotel, the Government of Tierra del Fuego organized a bus that took us to the Airport. We went through few check points. Everyone's documents - including boarding passes were checked. Everyone was checked, the temperatures taken. My letter from the Embassy was examined, felt like a lifetime when the officer was reading it. Finally, ok'd to check the bag. Few more checks, security and the departure hall. Everyone was told to sit few meters away from each other. It was about 11am now. The plane was supposed to arrive from BA at 12:30 and depart at 13:30 (1:30PM). 

At 11:30 an announcement came - the plane will now arrive at 18:00 (6pm) due to the technical difficulties. No one can leave the airport and nothing is open. We didn't bring any food/drinks thinking it's just as in US you cannot bring water etc. We had few cookies. 

Around 13:00 the guards brought lunch, water, soda and cookies for all. Catering hosted by the Government of Tierra del Fuego. Plenty for all. We found out that the plane that left Buenos Aires at 9am, had to have emergency landing in Commodora Rivadavia due to the technical difficulties. A new plane had to be deployed, passengers, crew and bags transferred. When the plane arrived at 18:20 at Ushuaia, all stood by the windows taking pictures. Finally the boarding. All organized, all smooth, groups starting from the end of the plane vs beginning. Much quicker. All in, all fast. Just two pilots and three crew members. No service. None needed. Everyone quiet, respectful. All good. Announcement in Spanish and English. Here we go. 3H10m smooth ride. Landing in Buenos Aires at 10:30pm. All clapped and clapped. All happy. All thankfull.

The full ariport AEP (Jorge Newberry) closed - this was the only flight today (that day) - everyone exiting the plane in line, with the distance in between, lots of military, police, medical staff. Everyone being checked individually. Our passports examined and numbers taken, written down along with the measurements of the temperature. Bags picked, everyone being reminded to keep the distance. 

Police checked the address, everyone had to purchase taxi ride - pre purchase, paid for and escorted to the cars. Riding to the apartment (7 min from the airport) - check stop in between, again passports, Embassy letters - the driver also showing his permit to drive. Finally arrived at the building. The host met us in front, but now stating the security does want to allow us in (I sent pictures of our passports on Friday night). Calling the local district police. Waiting. Checking our passports, checking the paperwork. Checking when we arrived in Argentina. Calling the boss. Another higher police person shows up. Same steps, checking, asking, checking paperwork. Talking to the security guards. A higher up is called in. After an hour, finally the police gives ok, the security guards reluctantly are letting us in. It's now past midnight. Happy Easter!!!. Didn't even have a chance to call family in US, but now did. Every one happy we made it safe. Everyone cheering. We are tired - but still trying to informed everyone vie WhatsApp that we've arrived safely with no problems. 

I was going to write to you as well. Didn't get to you - fell asleep. Today, the new day - worked all day and now finally was able to write to let you know the last adventure of our efforts to come home. Here we are in Buenos Aires now. E-mailed US Embassy to request new travel letters - hoping the April 18th flight is a go. Few more days. Will be working - thank God my company allowed me to work remotely and I still have my job. They have cut our salaries, but still have it.

So grateful for everything. So grateful for everyone. So grateful for this experience. True Easter Miracle!.

Our dear friends, now we're moving into a new chapter of the travel. Hopefully the flight will not be postponed. God Bless you all for your support, prayers and all your efforts. Sending our good wishes to all. 

Best Regards,

Marti, Jack and Em Tchorz

ps. - Forgive my writing errors - it's midnight here again, but I wanted to write to let you know we're good. 

On Monday, April 13, 2020, 10:14:57 AM CDT, DCDJGagnon <dcdjgagnon@comcast.net> wrote:

Thank you for your Member Letter. Please stay safe yourselves!!!!

EAL hugs………………MSR
______________________________________________

#6 E-mail:

From: Mark Porter <pacoastalairways@gmail.com>

To: Everett Holland <enealholland@yahoo.com>

Sent: Tuesday, March 31, 2020, 11:03:13 AM EDT

Subject: Re: Lady in Argentina

I just wrote the CEO of Eastern Airlines about the lady in Ushuaia. Awaiting his response. We need to find out if she got to BSAS. Steve i am sure will get her home if she can get to BSAS.

Sincerely

 Mark

__________________________________

#7 E-mail:

To: Marti Tchorz; DCDJGagnon; Mark Porter

cc: DCDJGagnon <dcdjgagnon@comcast.net>

Martina,

Mark sent this email.  Have you reach Buenos Aires yet?  If you can, please keep us posted on your progress and how the family is getting along.  Our thoughts and prayers travel with you.  Neal and Hosts of the EAL Radio Show.

 __________________________________

#8 E-mail:

On Sunday, March 29, 2020, 6:20:39 PM EDT, Marti Tchorz wrote:

Dear friends,

We are still in Ushuaia, however bought the tickets for Eastern Airlines for the flight on April 2nd (thanks to all of your efforts, this flight has been moved from March 31st to April 2nd - to allow us to get to Buenos Aires). However, still have awaiting the information from the US Embasy in Buenos Aires regarding the finalization of the flight from Ushuaia to Buenos Aires. We are keeping safe and calm and hoping to hear the good news soon/today. 

We are extremely grateful to all of you to assist us in this situation and will like to personally extend our thank you once back in the Homeland.

We will keep you posted as soon as we hear anything.

Best to all.

Sincerely,

Martina (Marti), Jack, Emili Tchorz

__________________________________

#9 E-mail:

On Tuesday, March 31, 2020, 11:55:37 AM EDT, Marti Tchorz <marti.t@sbcglobal.net> wrote:

Yes - we bought the tickets yesterday -

Sincerely,

Martina (Marti), Jack, Emili Tchorz

__________________________________

Wonderful and now let's hope all goes well with the rest of the connections.

Neal

__________________________________

#11 E-mail:

On Tuesday, March 31, 2020, 6:15:34 PM EDT, Mark Porter <pacoastalairways@gmail.com> wrote:

Dear Neal, 

Did sh get to Buenos Aires? 

Mark

__________________________________

#12 E-mail:

On Tue, Mar 31, 2020, 10:03 PM Everett Holland <enealholland@yahoo.com>

wrote:I haven't heard, Mark.  I will let you know and it is a family of 3 or 4.

Neal

__________________________________

We just wish that we hopped on the bus that the French Embassy organized which should reach Buenos Aires by tomorrow morning. Sounds like they even had police escort crossing through Chile. But passed on that once US Embassy provided the confirmation for the Military plane. 

All in all, thanks to your support, we remain in good spirit and keep our fingers crossed.

With sincere gratitude for your efforts.

Best,

Martina, Jack and Em Tchorz

On Thursday, April 2, 2020, 09:30:29 AM CDT, Everett Holland <enealholland@yahoo.com> wrote:

Martina, Thank you for keeping us posted as to your situation and we pray it will be a quick return once it starts.  Where exactly are you staying now?  With this vicious virus world wide do you have any protection ie: masks, gloves etc?  We hope you remain in good health and spirit as many thoughts are with you and your family and the others.  Neal

On Thursday, April 2, 2020, 8:57:43 AM EDT, Marti Tchorz <marti.t@sbcglobal.net> wrote:

Dear Friends,

We are so grateful for your continuous assistance and updates.

Ushuaia runway is about 2800 meters long (9000FT) - if that helps. French Embassy organized a bus that left Ushuaia at 3am on the 1st, and it sounds like it was able to pass Chilean/Argentinian border and is on it's way to Buenos Aires. Nothing from US or British Embassy yet (we met three Britts and are in contact - they were also on the Eastern flight). 

We now have a group chat and hoping the two Embassies will cooperate to find a solution.

Best to all,

Marti and Family, and all the gang stranded in Ushuaia

__________________________________

Don and I sincerely enjoyed the program tonight and had a great time listening to those memories of Eastern you recalled with your Eastern History. Great job on collecting the articles out of the old Eastern Newsletter, "Newswing" and giving us a taste of what Eastern was doing way back way.

Many of us didn't hear these stories before, or for that matter some of us weren't around during those early Eastern days to read "Newswings" either. So we do appreciate your keeping us in touch with what used to be back at the beginning of the Eastern Days.

Everyone loved it and the comments that came out of it were hilarious and they kept the show interacting with the callers. Thanks so much for putting together such a unique experience for us all, hearing those Eastern memories that were and written by Eastern employees.

Love & Thanks,

Dorothy & Don

From: Doris Gillenwaters

To: E. Neal Holland

Date: September 19, 2019

Hi,

I tuned into your radio show today and enjoyed it so much! Tony Bennett is phenomenal! And, oh, the memories his songs bring back - along with the dancing!

The music in ‘our day’ can never be duplicated- except Tony has been around for generations! Or decades,

Thanks, Doris

____________________________________________

From: Rene McKinnon
Sent: Tuesday, July 23, 2019 2:30 PM
To: Neal Holland; DCDJGagnon
Subject: Donation B737/Wings of Man(y)

Neil & Dorothy,

I was fortunate and able to listen into the last 20 minutes of last night's show. As always you put together a great show.

Last night you mentioned that the B737 was getting down in numbers. So, if it is still available ( and I hope so) I have just made a donation to EAL Radio Show in the amount of $100.00 U.S. to go towards a copy of the the Wings of Man(Y) and the B737. If the B737 is sold out please forward the book and the rest is part of the donation. You mentioned that the B737 was a great model and I really enjoy looking at it. The Eastern colour scheme was the best.

Thanks,
Rene

____________________________________________

Date : 07/20/19
Name : Lee Roy Hutchins
Email Address : hutch3lee@gmail.com
Subject: : Donation

On 07/18/19 I sent via PayPal a of $40 to aid with the EAL Radio Show plus your offer for the book and the EAL
model. I just want to make sure you received the donation and can you give me some idea when the gifts will be shipped.

Thanks... Lee

Roy Hutchins, Hattiesburg MS.

You folks do a fine job. Keep up the good work especially since the EAL retiree newsletter willprobably be going out of business.

____________________________________________

From: Dorothy Gagnon

Subject: Fw: Tonight's Show - "Eastern History Set to Music!"

Date: Tuesday, February 19, 2019

Neal,

You are one of a kind and have a gift of writing fabulous scripts in what you do with each topic we announce, that's a fact.

George, you two have such a gift of writing and speaking. A great radio voice too.

Your script and explanation Monday evening was so right on and even in the follow up after the program, you tell it the way it was. You know exactly the way it was living through it.

Thanks to both of you!

D & D

___________________________________

From: George Jehn
To: Everett Holland <enealholland@yahoo.com>
Sent: Monday, February 18, 2019, 10:36:07 PM EST
Subject: Re: Tonight's show - “Eastern History Set to Music!”

Hi Neal,
You did a great job! The music was fantastic and it made me realize how much our civilization indeed follows the music of the times, or vice-versa? Great job on your part!

Don't know how you do it every week, but give yourself a pat on the back because that's the least you deserve!
George

___________________________________

On 2/18/2019 10:08 PM

Everett Holland wrote:

George you did a great job in your presentation of the script. It added so much more that was not there and your insight/historical view is always welcomed. All in all, I think the show went well. Lots of folks don't like history lessons but the addition of a few songs make it more tolerable. I always enjoy listening to these songs and maybe  in my second life I will be a DJ.

Thanks for being with us tonight.

Neal

___________________________________

From: Brenda Chabot
To: EAL Radio Show
Subject: Re: EAL Radio Show February 18, 2019, Episode 403,Eastern History Set to Music
Date: Wednesday, February 13, 2019 2:32:14 PM

Hello Neal and friends,

I love the show you are planning with the music - as fate would have it, I work every Thursday afternoon - but will look it up in the archives. I am sorry I miss the Monday shows so often - I cannot explain (to myself) exactly why something always comes up at that time but I will be rejoining the shows - they are wonderful.

Kudos to you all.

I have just become the Silverliners News magazine editor !!! (learning curve but committed… and a tad nervous) and I will be giving your wonderful show a "call out" in the magazine wherever I can.

Thank you all for such a unique and wonderful endeavor.

All the best, Brenda Chabot
____________________________________________

Hello Everyone!

I had the pleasure last night of being on-air on the Eastern Air Lines Radio Show where they were doing a wonderful history of the flight attendant position, from Hostess to Stewardess to Flight Attendant. My input was to address their role as first respondents and offer incredible examples of bravery and commitment. It was very enjoyable - the people from Eastern are amazing - kind, supportive and fun loving.

I learned all this when I joined the EAL Silverliners, a group of retired, ex, and still working FAs who work and meet to enjoy their experiences, HAVE FUN, and raise money for many, many charities. I was the first Canadian to join, and my friend Carolyn Gordon joined last year too.

We are off to Omaha in May for the AGM!! I attended the convention this past June in West Palm Beach and it was there I met retired Eastern pilot Neal Holland who started and runs the radio show. Kudos to Neal and his crew who keeping the history alive, plus the spirit of both Eastern and the "people-part" of aviation. Wardair pride is echoed in the welcoming inclusion from Eastern. Ah - long ago - see Wardair and Eastern in pic below. Thank you Eastern! The Great Silver Fleet!!

____________________________________

From: normajean borger
To: Capt Neal; Dorothy
Cc: Don Gagnon; Colleen DeFelice; Jim Holder
Subject: You did it again!
Date: Monday, November 05, 2018 8:22:46 PM

I was a little tardy arriving, but what an interesting show. Colleen’s voice is excellent. What a smart lady. All of you continue to outdo yourselves every week.  Carrie’s voice is also excellent.

Carry on!

Normajean
____________________________________________

Dorothy Gagnon
To: "normajean borger"; "Capt Neal"
Cc: "eDon Gagnont"; "Colleen DeFelice"; "Jim Holder"
Subject: Thank You! RE: You did it again!
Date: Tuesday, November 06, 2018 11:28:00 AM

Thank you, Normajean,

We appreciate all the good words, and too, are so thankful for our Guest Hosts who continue to amaze all of us with their talent and dedication to Eastern Airlines and especially to Neal's program. It was a
great program, and yes you are correct, "He did it again."

Missed you, hope to talk to you soon! Be well and enjoy in the meantime!

We Love You Eastern!

Dorothy Gagnon
____________________________________________

From: Dorothy Gagnon
To: "Edward M. Booth"
Cc: "Everett Holland"; "Charles Allbright"; "James C. Hart"; "Jim Holder"; "normajean borger"; "Mike Scott"; "Bud Robbins"; "John Steinmetz"; "Jim Gardner"; "Jerry Frost"; Pat McBreen
Pat McBreen; Conni Kerrigan; CDeFelice; George Jehn; Karlene Petitt; Ken Allen

Subject: Outstanding Program Last Evening - of Episode 386, “Aviation Law & The Jacksonville Historical Society”
Date: Tuesday, October 16, 2018 2:52:00 PM

Dear Skip,

Neal and the EAL Radio Show Hosts greatly appreciate your joining us last evening to be our Guest Host on our broadcast on “Aviation Law and The Jacksonville Historical Society”. We were certainly privileged to have you spend the time with us, given your busy schedule. Also immensely pleased with how well the program was received by our listeners and hosts. Everyone loved the program, just absolutely so interesting and shared so we all could understand the topic. In addition, it was great hearing all about your flying experience as that related so well to our listeners and out Pilot Hosts, especially about aviation insurance companies and their polices. Great explanation on that aspect, so of course we want to hear more and more. We thank you for sharing your knowledge and vast experience with us, it was outstanding!

Skip, you have been an Eastern enthusiasts from way back and your camaraderie with John Ingle and Neal is commendable for such a long and great friendship. In addition, you have been such a great part of the Jacksonville Historical Society along with Johnny Ingle and you both have given so much to that Society. Fantastic job and highly
commendable for your interest and enthusiasm all these years. Thank you, too, for all the Eastern memorabilia you are sending to Neal on Johnny Ingle. We are thankful to have such a good friend to the Eastern Family.

The EAL Radio Show would like to invite you back to share more of your experiences with us at your convenience. I will get back to you in a couple of months to have you come aboard at another date and continue with more Aviation law. We hated to have the program end so we definitely will be in touch to schedule a date. Again, our sincere thanks for the educational information that we learned Monday evening and our appreciation for giving such a wonderful program.

Dorothy

Neal,

Don and I enjoyed being on the show listening to Episode 384 last evening, with our Guest Author, Neal Bascomb who wrote "The Escape Artists", which is a tremendous book. Neal explained to us that the characters were a band of daredevil pilots who planned the greatest prison break of the WW II.

The book we know is spellbinding story of the downed Allied aviators. Neal talked about how they masterminded an ingenious breakout from Germany’s most terrible POW camp. Wow, was he interesting as he explained speaking to these men who went through some terrible torture as they were encamped there. Also about how they went about carrying out their plan.

We so enjoyed all of his thoughts he shared on those questions that we asked, and what a brilliant mind he has on all of his many books he wrote. 

Thanks for having Neal aboard.Great evening and we look forward to another one with Neal soon!

Dorothy & Don

From: Dorothy Gagnon [dcgagnon@att.net]
Sent: Tuesday, August 7, 2018 2:38 PM
To: 'Everett Holland'

Neal,

Don and I enjoyed listening to the Episode 377 on the Training at 36th Street and hearing all the comments from those who attended that training. We had such a good time recapping the notes that the Eastern Family sent into us. Also loved hearing all the comments from the listeners who called in to the broadcast to listen.

It was great going over all the memories shared by everyone. 

Loved the program, great Episode!

 Dorothy & Don

From: Dorothy Gagnon [dcgagnon@att.net]
Sent: Tuesday, July 17, 2018 1:15 PM
To: 'Everett Holland'
Cc: 'Charles Allbright'; 'George Jehn'; 'normajean borger'; Jim Hart, 'Don Gagnon'; 'Colleen DeFelice';Mike Scott, 'Karlene Petitt'; Bud Robbins,Jerry Frost; Jim Gardner; Jim Holder; John Steinmetz; Patty McLean, Conni Kerrigan; Ken Boring; Shaye Bradley; 'isaiah60ltf@aol.com'; captesful@aol.com
Subject: Great Program Monday evening - Remembrance of Pilot Amelia Earhart

Neal,

Thank you once again for researching and presenting Monday's program on the "Remembrance of Amelia Earhart" and all her adventures. Hearing the story again along with the review and discussion by our Hosts of such a great aviatrix, Amelia Earhart was enlightening.

As I mentioned this to you last night after the show, where can you find a venue to discuss all the items you present every Monday, that are meaningful. Especially Monday listening to the after discussion of the Hosts with their thoughts and knowledge was great as it lent another facet to the topic of our show.

That's what so great about your program. We look forward to Monday evenings to hear another interesting Episode on the topics you choose to bring us. Thanks for all you do. Our hosts we have, too, always seem to either find more about the subject, or bring to the table notes that they know or experience. Every one of them, Jim Hart, Don Gagnon, Jim Holder, Mike Scott, Colleen DeFelice, Chuck Allbright and myself had something to say last evening
that was meaningful to our topic and gave us more "tidbits" to keep the program so interesting. Thanks to all of you for your support to make our program keep being the success it is to the Eastern Family.

We love you Eastern!

Dorothy & Don

__________________________________

From: normajean borger
To: Capt Neal; Dorothy
Subject: Radio show
Date: Tuesday, July 17, 2018 10:10:17 AM

You guys keep delivering.

Colleen has a great voice. Clear. Great enunciation, sweet voice.

Thanks again
Normajean

__________________________________

To: Colleen DeFelice; Dorothy Gagnon; Normajean Borger
Subject: Fw: Radio show
Date: Tuesday, July 17, 2018 10:19:27 AM

Normajean is right, Colleen.

You have a great radio voice. Listening to you last night delivering the part of Amelia, I felt it was her. You are very convincing. I hope you agree to do more with the show. We need your talent. Thanks for taking part last night.

Neal

__________________________________

From: Charles Allbright
To: Dorothy Gagnon
Subject: Re: Great Program Monday evening - Remembrance of Pilot Amelia Earhart
Date: Wednesday, July 18, 2018 2:53:15 PM

Thanks Dorothy on the follow up to Neal every week. You bring, for us, all the homey feeling about the show...to him.

LOL, Chuck

From: Dorothy Gagnon [dcgagnon@att.net]
Sent: Tuesday, June 26, 2018 2:38 PM
To: 'Everett Holland'
Cc: 'James C. Hart'; 'Charles Allbright'; 'George Jehn'; 'Jim Holder'; 'Normajean Borger'; Mike Scott, George McCann; 'Jerry Frost'; Bud Robbins, Jim Gardner

Subject: Great Informative Addition to Neal's Script

Neal,

All of your Hosts want to thank you from the bottom of our hearts for the outstanding script you wrote and Sound Bite you acquired specifically for that program last evening capturing the EAL Flight 66 Memorial story in their honor. Also making it clear to all of us what Microburst can do to aircraft with the script you wrote. We have heard many articles after that crash relaying stories of mishaps due to Microburst's, and your script put legitimacy back into Flight 66 and what occurred and why.

Additionally I know that Neal has written to all of the Hosts thanking you for your informative participation. So Don and I too, want to thank all of you for supporting Neal and staying with us on the show after the script was over, and relaying all your thoughts of the day that horrific crash occurred.

Mike Scott, you relayed important information to us that wasn't in any of the articles anywhere of your involvement being part of the Maintenance Crew at JFK at the time, that gave us more insight as to the horrific crash and how powerful it was.

Mike McCann, you gave as more insights being a part of the ALPA team investigating the crash for Eastern and those insights were very valuable for us to hear.

Jim Holder, the backup you gave us to Microburst on how powerful they were to handling an EAL aircraft in that type of Microburst was incredible to hear as well. As only a Pilot who has been in that type of Microburst  and lived through it can attest to for sure.

Shea Oakley for your informative relay of what your friend heard from the Controller that evening and reading of the June 24, 1975 article, too, was hitting on the very thoughts in all the Eastern Family, of what thoughts the Controller had after we all listened to the Sound Byte Neal acquired to use last night.

George Jehn living in Long Island hearing what you remembered of that evening and the folks you personally knew on that aircraft was also enlightening to all of us.

Neal and all he had to offer on knowing the individuals involved, such as Mary Mooney and who was a survivor on that Flight 66 and his experiences flying.

If any of you stop to think about it, this story with your background of informative knowledge of the happenings surrounding that flight made this a special program that really belongs in our Eastern History for the future generation to hear. Somehow, Neal we have got to preserve this taping of the show so one day it can be in an archive of a Museum for all to listen to hear what events happened in the crash of Eastern Flight 66 at JFK airport, and the cleanup of those events at JFK after it was over. Though it never can be over in the minds of any of the Eastern Family.

Thank you all for being a part of our program. We love you Eastern!

Dorothy & Don Gagnon
Host & Webmaster

__________________________________

__________________________________

WOW! What a great show of Eastern Airlines Brats. To listen to this program go to www.blogtalkradio.com/capteddie and click on Episode 362. www.blogtalkradion.com

Lizabeth Fuller Minuto commented on your post in Eastern Airline Brats.                                                                        Lizabeth Fuller Minuto 10:33pm Apr 23

Great show, Neal! I hope more brats will join us here on the page and in the future on the show!

____________________________________

For those of you who listened to the EAL show last night 4/23/18 featuring the "Eastern Brats II.." you heard from Jennifer McElhaney Husack. Yesterday was a sacred day because it was the one year anniversary of her Father's "flying west" as the pilots say. I know this incredible man is with God in heaven. Here is a picture of my Dad, Estan Lee Fuller, and Jennifer's beloved father, John McElhaney, in 2014 at our Farm in Indiana and on their way to Oshkosh!

____________________________________

From: Everett Holland
To: Lizabeth Minuto; Dorothy Gagnon; Linda Fuller
Subject: You Are A Natural.
Date: Monday, April 23, 2018 10:15:21 PM

We're so glad to have you Narrate the show tonight and hope you would consider to be on a regular basis. Of course, your schedule comes first. It was a great show tonight. Your command of the show shows that you are a natural for our shows.

My daughter said she joined the Face Book Brat page and I am sure you will have many brats signing up. We will promote the page on the website. Also think about Brats-3 for this summer.

Thanks again for your participation and getting this together.

Neal

____________________________________

Lizabeth Fuller Minuto to Eastern Airline Brats

29 minutes ago - April 24, 2018

For those of you who listened to the EAL show last night featuring the "Eastern Brats.." you heard from Jennifer McElhaney Husack. Yesterday was a sacred day because it was the one year anniversary of...

 ____________________________________

04/24/18

Neal Holland

You'll out number us one day and it's up to you to keep our beloved airline remembered.

Neal

____________________________________

Dorothy Gagnon 11 hrs

"Eastern Brats", we loved the EAL Radio Show of "Eastern Brats II" tonite. Every one of you that shared your Eastern memories of growing up in, and traveling with your Eastern parents, was extremely entertaining. Lizabeth, you personally did a fabulous job as Narrator, and we look forward to our next "Eastern Brats III" in the future.

'Love and Hugs, The EAL Show Hosts

____________________________________

 _____________________________________

Awesome...congrats and thanks to Dorothy!

 _____________________________________

Joseph Hardy‎ 

Loved Eastern, and never worked there. Spent my life at DAB. As a kid my dad worked for Hertz Corp. Often he would take me to work with him at night. He would walk me through the terminal, talking to his friends at EA. Senior year of high school I became a DAB skycap, got to know the EA Culture. Graduated Embry-Riddle. I now work in Tech Ops for UA at MCO. I salute EA as a founder in the airline culture.

_____________________________________

Pat Barron

Sorry I missed this! When may I see it again?

Dorothy Gagnon Tonight, February 12. 2018 The EAL Radio Show, Episode 352 released the letter I sent to Swift Air in reference to my request for The Eastern James E. Hartley Trdaining Center Memorial Plaque they received in their assets, to be donated to a museum.

My letter was answered from Swift Air on behalf of Mr. Jeff Conry, President and CEO who honored us with donating not only the Hartley Plaque but also the Captain Eddie Fountain Memorial. Go to our website, www.ealradioshow.com for more or http://www.blogtalkradio.com/capteddie.

_____________________________________

Bill Sablesak

Outstanding job! Thank You so much. This is huge!

From: Dorothy Gagnon
To: "Everett Holland"; Chuck Allbright; George Jehn; Jim Hart; Jim Holder; "Linda Fuller"; K. Allen Boring,
Cc: Karlene Petitt; Jill Cotton; "normajean borger"; Bill Joseph
Subject: Our Episode 349 "History of Airline Regulation US Post Office, CAA, FAA, CAB, DOT" - Great Show
Date: Tuesday, January 23, 2018 4:28:00 PM

Thanks again for such an interesting show last evening. Don and I truly enjoyed being one of the Hosts to present such an in-depth knowledge of “The History of Airline Regulations”.  I am sure there are listeners in the airline industry who know quite a bit on this subject, but for someone like myself, I learned a great deal of information that wasn’t known to me and others that listened, as it went far back.

Your knowledge you shared and the research you found on this topic, gave us insight to the early stages of Airline Regulation and finally to what led to President Jimmy Carter to signing the Airline Deregulation Act on Oct. 24, 1978, or  “ The Deregulation Act” as it was called…and we learned why. That Act eventually dissolved the Civil Aeronautics Board (CAB), which regulated U.S. airlines setting where they could fly and what fares they could charge. The way the hosts presented the information on this topic was great. We loved hearing more on airlines and how they ran, especially where we are all part of the greatest airline, Eastern Airlines, that we loved.

Today, we have what resulted from that policy in the fact that all airlines are able to bid for both domestic and international routes and charge prices for flights from low to high with amenities they provide of all types at varied costs. We also loved the FAA Sound Clip of the song that you found created by the FAA way back, while you were researching this topic. We are truly amazed at your insight to locate a sound clip relating to our topic, and to hearing the verse on our EAL Radio Show.

Human nature takes many things for granted, and I’m sure that the average person doesn’t realize what it took during those past years to get the Airline Regulations changed. Your show gave us the opportunity to understand how and when these changes occurred. We thank you so much for educating us in such a fine show that all of the hosts presented Monday, January 22, 2018.

Thank you all so much, and Neal, thank you for your creativity.

Dorothy & Don

___________________________________________

January 15, 2018

Mr. John Roper, President
Mr. Ron Pye
Airline History Museum
201 NW Lou Holland Drive
Kansas City, MO64116

Dear John and Ron,

Neal and the EAL Radio Show greatly appreciate your joining us last evening to be our Guest Hosts on our broadcast of Episode 348, “The Last Voyage of An Aircraft...Then Where Do They Go”. We were immensely pleased with how well the program was received by our listeners and thank you for sharing your knowledge and vast experience with us. Also, thank you Ron for inviting John Roper to be a Guest Host along with yourself, that was a great surprise.

We were certainly privileged to have you both on at the same time. It is always wonderful to have one of our Eastern family join our program, but it is very special to have two individuals that have such a wide background that both you and John possess, spend the time with us.

We would love to have you come aboard at another date and do a program on the history of “The Airline Museum” and have you tell us more of all the efforts you do for the museum. Your website has a variety of events that you entertain there, and we welcome you both to return at your convenience to tell us more exciting events planned there. The topic would make a great program, and of course, alert our listeners and members to visit your museum for the wonderful artifacts you display.

Again, our sincere thanks to you both for the educational information that we learned that lent well to our topic. We greatly appreciate it very much.

Sincerely,

Dorothy

Dorothy Gagnon on Behalf of Captain Neal and our Hosts
EAL Radio Show
Host and Webmaster
dcgagnon@att.net

EAL Radio Show
Everett Neal Holland
EAL Radio Show Founder & Producer
E-mail: enealholland@yahoo.com

___________________________________________

To: Everett Holland
Cc: Dorothy Gagnon; George Jehn; Chuck Allbright; Jim Holder; James C. Hart; Bill Joseph; Karlene Petitt; Lynn
Rhinehardt; Jerry Frost; Estan Fuller; K. Allen; Constance Kerrigan; Colleen DeFelice; Beverly LaPointe; Don
Gagnon; Jeff Lewis; Cecile Intriago; Sharon Menear
Subject: Re: Radio Show Revision
Date: Sunday, December 17, 2017 4:10:45 PM

Item 2. I will pick one word. Subterfuge

People in DC simply do not want EAL to succeed. It may even be related to Flight 980. We will never really know or understand the evil in the hearts of men.  We simply did not pay off the right people. Probably did not pay anyone.

Congrats to Jim Holder. Marvelous. And, exciting.

Normajean

____________________________________________

Neal,

Dorothy and I are so impressed with you and your show. This truly is the "Voice of Eastern Airlines" and we appreciate the time and effort you put into this show each and every day for the Eastern Family. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.

Don Gagnon

(EAL 30 year employee) and

Host Dorothy Gagnon,

Friend of Eastern Airlines,

Date: Tuesday, November 21, 2017
From: Dorothy Gagnon
To: "Everett Holland"

Subject: EAL Radio Show Episode 343, November 27, 2017, Eastern’s “Love Of  The Lockheed L-1011 Tri-Star”

Very interesting broadcast last night that gave us the stories and memories of the aircraft that Eastern loved so much. I enjoyed having the history given of when the L-1011 actually began in 1966 with the design and development of the "L-1011 TriStar," which back then was considered the world's most technologically-advanced airliner at that time. It was Lockheed's first commercial jetliner; and the second wide body jetliner to be launched.

Though Eastern signed the LOA in 1968 with Lockheed, the first L-1011 delivery of the N306EA (mshTn1000) wasn’t until April 1972. Service was not scheduled to begin until April 30, but it entered service on April 26, 1972 when Eastern’s first new Lockheed L-1011 flew the NY-MIA flight with 123 passengers. Then Eastern started with the “Love Affair with Lockheed Aircraft.” By October of ‘72, they had six L-1011’s, 226-seat in service. Eastern favored a Trijet configuration, for their long routes over water.

Don spoke of this type of aircraft that was mostly used by Eastern as well as TWA back then. That Eastern was a "Launch customer" as he called it. He indicated that it was conceived in the mid-60s to transport 250 passengers on popular transcontinental routes. He also said it boasted unheard-of luxuries. Of course, Don also mentioned the Filet Mignon and Lamb Chop dinners up to the main cabin via two elevators. The passengers loved the ride. Don said the crew, too, appreciated its extra-wide aisles and overhead bins, but mostly the TriStar’s pilots enjoyed its most thrilling feature of the advanced fly-by-wire automatic flight control system (AFCS).

Chuck Allbright worked on the L-1011 for over 10 years at Eastern. He was one of twelve (12) mechanics out of 4000 in MIA to qualified to test run and ground taxi all of the L-1011 in EAL's inventory coming out of the overhaul section in MIA. He relayed that although Lockheed had been working on their signature triple-spool turbofan since 1965 and the L-1011 TriStar was the first to have the Rolls Royce RB211 engine, that there was, however, engine issues of composite massive delays which eventually they worked out. But this caused many delays until the RB211 was rectified and became successful turbofan engines.

Jim Holder spoke saying the L-1011 was an aircraft that was an era of challenging reliability issues. Some A&P mechanics complained about some aspect (such as using a unique type of self-locking screw). The L1011 was an aircraft of firsts and great engineering.  Jim explained to us the Legacy of the "Whisper Liner," as Eastern called it because of its quiet takeoffs and lack of noise in its passenger cabin. We found out that the production of L-1011s continued until 1983 and reached 98.1 % reliability. The unfortunate financial troubles proved too much to overcome Jim said, but a total of 250 TriStar jets were produced by Lockheed, and the L-1011 marked the company’s final commercial passenger airliners. Lockheed created, in one pilot’s words, “the most intelligent airliner ever to fly”.

Linda spoke about the space and how the airlines tried to utilize “below deck” areas of the L1011. She talked about the lower galleys but said that the F/As were not a fan of being stuck down below during meal preparation. Linda said that on the runways the L-1011 TriStar was an undeniable beauty and that the L-1011 was nothing short of a miracle as it was the first commercial airliner capable of flying itself from takeoff to landing.

This is where Ken spoke to us about the Tristar pilots and the simplicity of being able to dial altitude and course changes as well as to monitor their instruments. Too, the L-1011 pilot's would say that it could fly and land on its own when descending onto the runway by locking in to an airport’s radio-nav equipment. That was a groundbreaking moment, he said as Ken relayed the story back in May 25, 1972 of two veteran test pilots who transported crew members and reporters on a 4-hour, 13- minute flight from Palmdale, California, to Dulles Airport outside Washington, D.C. All the time the TriStar’s AFCS' feature was engaged from takeoff roll to landing. It was indeed, the 1st cross-country flight without the need for human hands on the controls. Fly-by-wire technology was here to stay. How grand was that!

Thank you once again Neal, for providing us with a most intelligent program on Eastern’s “Love Of  The Lockheed L-1011 Tri-Star.”

We love you Eastern! Dorothy & Don

From: normajean borger
To: Jim Holder
Cc: Capt Neal; Dorothy; George; Chuck
Subject: Thanks for Entertaining Us
Date: Tuesday, November 28, 2017 10:25:23 AM

Enjoyed your letter about REPA! Especially the part about pledging the allegiance “Holding his left hand over his heart”.

Also, I was quite disturbed hearing the EAL plaque is in the hands of Swift Air at GSO . I wonder how that happened! In my opinion, it belongs in the Smithsonian...at least it will be preserved there and well cared for. Is there anything “we” - former EAL employees, can do to rectify this travesty? Who can retrieve this plaque and send it on it’s merry way to D.C.?

Many thanks for your dedication. Also, kudos to Dorothy and Capt Neal for their Tireless efforts each week.

Normajean

P.S.: As a former Secretary in engineering for about four years, I especially enjoyed Chucks info about the engines. The reliability of the JT8D engine was a big project when I began my years in Miami in Building 22.

____________________________________________

From: Ken Boring
To: Dorothy Gagnon
Subject: Re: Ken"s E-mail
Date: Monday, November 27, 2017 8:28:12 PM

Thank you and Neal again for a GREAT show. LOVED IT!!!

Date: Tuesday, November 21, 2017
From: Dorothy Gagnon
To: "Everett Holland"
Subject: Review of Episode 342, “Unsolved Mystery…D. B. Cooper Hijacking of NW Flight #305

Dear Neal,

Monday Evening, November 20,  2017  the topic of the EAL Radio Show was the “Unsolved Mystery…D. B. Cooper Hijacking of NW Flight #305 and an excellent presentation by our hosts…as you called them, “The EAL Playhouse Performers”.  The cast was wonderful and we enjoyed our parts that we played in this true story.

Our story began back on November 24th, 1971 (46 years ago this Friday) and remains as one of the greatest mysteries in Aviation that occurred.  D. B. Cooper, a gentleman in his mid 40s, wearing a suit, black trench coat and loafers, carrying a black attaché case bought a one-way NW Airlines Coach ticket at the Portland International Airport.

NW flight 305 with 36 passengers aboard, taxis away from the gate when  D. B. Cooper handed a note to the F/A/ The note read that he  had a bomb and opens the attaché case for the F/A to catch a glimpse. The F/A brings the note up to the Captain who followed all the necessary precautions as he was trained to do. He phoned into the company the demands of the hijacker: $200,000 in US dollars in twenty dollar denominations placed in several packages. Additionally he demanded parachutes, a fuel truck standing by for refueling and 6 meals delivered to the aircraft.

The Captain put the plane in a holding pattern over the Puget Sound area and made an announcement that they were experiencing mechanical problems but not to worry…all to avoid passengers knowing about the hijacking.

 
Once the demands were met, the aircraft landed at Seattle-Tacoma Airport. Cooper gave instructions to the Captain and then the NW Seattle Ops Mgr. delivered the cash-filled knapsack and other items demanded. Cooper then permitted passengers and all but 6 of the crew, to depart the aircraft.

The 727 took off and was followed by fighter aircraft, along with a Lockheed T-33 trainer. The hijacker then exited the plane over the Lewis River in southwestern Washington at 10,000 feet and it was assumed by the FBI that the exit itself was un-survivable… but this is in doubt.

Recently physical evidence that may be connected to the unsolved 1971 D.B. Cooper hijacking case was given, although in the hands of FBI agents in California, they closed the case.  After that, the FBI issued an advisory that should specific physical evidence emerge relating to the parachutes or the money taken by the hijacker, individuals with those materials should contact their local FBI field office. So the case though closed, remains unsolved.

Again the research that you did showed all the different facets of this real life situation aboard the NW aircraft. All aboard were extremely fortunate that no one was harmed and that the hijacker, D.B. Cooper, allowed the passengers to depart the plane.

Our sincere thanks to our hosts for presenting a true real life story although the ending is still no further solved than the day they began the investigation.

We love you Eastern!

Dorothy and Don
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__________________________________________________________________________________________________

From: Dorothy Gagnon
To: "Everett Holland"
Cc: "James C. Hart"; "George Jehn"; "Charles Allbright"; "Linda Fuller"; "Estan Fuller"; "Ken Boring"; "Karlene Petitt"; "Sharon Menear"; "normajean borger"
Subject: Review of Episode 340, “Honoring Our Veterans” and “Upcoming Book Releases by Eastern Authors"
Date: Tuesday, November 07, 2017 5:18:00 PM

Neal,

The segment with the “Upcoming Book Releases by Eastern Authors" was so enjoyable listening to their background before they spoke. We have such highly intelligent and talented authors writing such wonderful books. They are truly knowledgeable and gifted and we thank them for their time to be not only EAL Radio Show Hosts, but for giving us a great selection of books to read. Each author gave us their upcoming exclusive titles along with a brief reading of the soon to be released book, or in some cases, recently released book to the public. Their Prologues given made us want to purchase them now as they were so fascinating and some sounded so exciting and mysterious, we just can’t wait for them to be released.

There were 5 authors that joined the program last night with their upcoming new book releases:

1. Neal Holland; book coming soon, "EASTERN AIRLINES:  A Treasure of Memories" (Author of Wings of Man(y)).
2. George Jehn; book coming this year, “Guided By The Light – In Heaven And On Earth” (Author of “Flying Too Close To The Sun”; and “Final Destination: Disaster: What Really Happened to Eastern Airlines”).
3. Karlene Petitt: Her new released book, “Flight for Justice” (Author of Flight to Success”; “Flight for Control”; “Flight for Safety”; and many others).
4. Sharon Menear: Her new released book “Blaze” (Author of “Deadstick Dawn”; “Poseidon’s Sword”; and “Life, Love, & Laughter: 50 Short Stories”).
5. K. Allen; soon to be published, “Best Friends” (Author of “Remembering What I Forgot” book and video also entitled; “Remembering What I Forgot” Sub Title “My Dad, A Life in Pictures”).

Information on each author is up on our website for you to read: Go to: https://www.ealradioshow.com/book-review.

Our sincere congratulations go to all five of these exceptional EAL Radio Show Hosts and Authors for giving us their spectacular books. We are so proud of all of them and thank them immensely for sharing themselves with this program. Neal, again you have outdone yourself with the Episodes you continue to produce each week, time and time again. The effort you extend to create your Episodes, research on the topics and write scripts on for all of us to enjoy, is sincerely appreciated and we thoroughly enjoy every one of them.

We love you Eastern! Dorothy and Don

____________________________________________

From: normajean borger
To: Capt Neal; Dorothy Gagnon; Jim Holder; George
Subject: Eastern Airlines Radio Show - Ask The Airline Experts
Date: Wednesday, October 25, 2017 10:32:24 AM

You had another interesting show. Don't we love Jim Holder's stories.

About a week ago, we lost another EAL employee. A lot of us showed up for funeral in Orlando. Five of us from Maintenance MCO. The deceased and the widow were both Eastern and she and I were friends even in Miami. But I will let her notify EARA in Miami as it is not my place to do so. The funeral home was packed and even one of the ramp guys came over to tell me hello and told me to say hello to my husband. Bear in mind I had not seen many of these people since 1983 when I transferred to TPA. What an incredible network EAL was and still is.

BTW. three ladies sitting in front of me were EAL Miami and one turned around to speak to me. She recognized my voice-- we had gone on ski trips together and I had not seen her since 1977 when I transferred to MCO.

Normajean

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October 11, 2017 Review of Episode 336 Aired on October 9, 2017

The Georgia State University Library Exhibit;

 “The Wings of Man: The Eastern Air Lines Experience”

Ms. Traci Jo Drummond CA, is the archivist for the Southern Labor Archives at the Georgia State University Library, and was Guest Host for Episode 336 Monday evening, October 9 where she presented a wonderful program of the highlights the Library Exhibit; The Wings of Man: The Eastern Air Lines Experience being held at the Atlanta, GA campus. We truly enjoyed the history of how Georgia State received all the Eastern Airlines memorabilia, papers, destination documents, videos of the Eastern’ Commercials done by Orson Welles, along with other materials and artifacts such as small planes, wings, serving ware, F/A collection of training slides, etc. that were donated to the Archives back in 1991 by the Atlanta office of Eastern Airlines when it ceased operations.

Traci reached out to other Eastern people, as well as Martha Hamilton, Washington Post Reporter, and Adrienne Cohen, Copy writer and Advertising executive, Young and Rubicam, both who donated items. They worked with her and her team to bring this Exhibit and make it a reality at the University Library which will continue until June 2018. Click on this hyperlink: Eastern Air Lines Collections where they have a 5-panel exhibit and 3 standing panels that contain different materials from this “rich collection” that Eastern, Atlanta donated including an L-1011 Whisper jet plane and 2 smaller planes, F/A Uniforms from 1970s, and early and late1980s, etc . They also collected items in their Digital Collection of documentation from selected items and some from entire collections that were digitized:

• The Frank Borman papers chronicle through correspondence his work as the president of Eastern Air Lines in the late 1970s and 1980s
• The Jim Ashlock collection includes Eastern’s annual reports, coverage of Eastern’s dissolution, Eastern television ads, and information about daily operations during the strike; Ashlock was a public relations specialist at Eastern from 1966-1991
• Martha Hamilton, a Washington Post reporter who donated her notebooks, news clippings, and other items related to her coverage of Eastern 1989-1991
• Adrienne Cohen, copy writer and advertising executive, donated copies of her ad work for Eastern which features radio and print ads, including “The Wings of Man” radio commercial series featuring Orson Welles from the early 1970sThe records of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers, who represented the ground crew at Eastern, include recordings of television coverage of the strike, collective bargaining agreements, and photographs of daily operations at various locals
• The papers of John Chaknis, a member of the Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA), who collected materials related to ALPA’s sympathy strike with the Machinists
• Carolyn Lee Wills, former director of the Eastern Airlines' Southern Region Public Relations Office, collected and donated press releases, photographs, newsletters, destination files, operations information, and a formidable collection of artifacts from Eastern Air Lines.

Sincerely,

Dorothy Gagnon on behalf of Captain Neal and our EAL Radio Show Hosts.

________________________________________________

Thanks!  I did order one copy from Amazon and told my sister, Chris, about it….she used to work for Eastern as well, and she ordered one.  I wanted to get them from the Eastern store but as I mentioned couldn’t see how to do that.  I will be ordering more as gifts….would like my children to have a copy each!  I can’t wait to sit down and read them…..this one as well as Neal’s…I did order that one from the ’store’!!

I also added my sister’s name to the Eastern Airlines group….Christine Cady Reynolds….a hundred years ago….I would shut the aircraft door in ATL and she would open it in PVD!!  She then went on to be an instructor and eventually went with Continental.

Again, thanks for doing such a great job!  I will try to put some stories together for Vol. II….many of them I cannot tell.  I will try to come up with some that could be published!!  We also had Howard Hughes onboard the Lockheed JetStar ….he boarded in Opa-Locka, FL and oh the stories of the celebrities and on and on!!!  Hey….a few glasses of wine later…….!! - R

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Dear Eastern Family,

To: Ken Boring

On Tue, Sep 26, 2017 at 1:24 PM,

Thanks, Ken.

It was a team  project and all did well.  We especially enjoyed your memories of Steve.  I sent the plaque out today to Glenda and family.  It was wonderful listening to the "kids" talk about their mom and dad.  I hope mine have something nice to say about me. 

I am so glad you are connected to the radio show.  You always have the most interesting comments.  I hope you will stay with us as long as you have time. 

Neal

From: lynn rhinehardt
To: Everett Holland
Sent: Monday, September 25, 2017 6:06 PM
Subject: Re: Hall of Fame

We would not miss this event for anything. Thank you very much for putting this together. This show was dear to Steve's heart. He would not miss the Monday show.

Lynn 

Thank you Captain Neal for giving us "The Voice of Eastern Airlines"

Program reviews coming in on last night's program, August 28, 2017 on  "The Eastern Family And Their Eastern Brats" and we owe that all to you for the time and all the efforts you put into

making this show last evening "Spectacular"! Kudos, Captain Neal!

Dorothy, Webmaster/Host

________________________________________________

From: Dorothy Gagnon
Subject: Re: EAL Radio Show Broadcast "The Eastern Family And Their Eastern Brats"
Date: Tuesday 8/29/2017 12:18 PM

Dear Eastern family and "Eastern Brats",

"Thanks for the Memories"

Kudos for a wonderful program last evening on the EAL Radio Show, which is truly “The Voice of Eastern Airlines”. The love for Eastern heard in your voices certainly came across to all the listeners who learned what it was like for you as children, growing up as an “Eastern Brat”. You made the Eastern Family so proud of the wonderful stories you all shared from beginning to end. The 1½ hours flew by and anyone listening could “feel the warmth and love for Eastern” that emanated from your voices. You couldn’t wait to tell us your story and more importantly…we couldn’t wait to hear more and more of them.

Many of us continue to say how we love our beloved Eastern Airlines. You children that grew up in an Eastern Family showed it with your stories of wonderful remembrances of good times back then. Different memories you shared with the happiness and love for Eastern and memories never forgotten, that says it all.

A commercial for Eastern couldn’t have said it better. Your expressions with the stories you shared throughout the evening kept us enthralled and made us feel as though we were back then with you enjoying those days too. The more you remembered, the more we wanted to hear you share those memories. Each of you were so excited telling us how proud you felt being an “Eastern Brat”, we just loved it. As the parents of these children listening to their “happy and loved voices” you must know that you all did a wonderful job as parents during those years at Eastern.

There were folks listening like me, that missed growing up in an Eastern Family and got into the family long after Eastern closed. As you shared your individual stories, you made us wish we had grown up in that type of a family atmosphere too. You are children of Eastern Employees who loved their jobs and their company. It wasn’t put on in any way and never has been. The children of Eastern Airlines certainly carry the wonderful legacy that we all talk about daily in our lives. Listening to you all share your memories, gave us in the Eastern Family the comfort that we never have to worry about our Legacy not being told to the next generation and future generations to come. As they say, “You Got Our Backs” and we love you all dearly.

We invite you all back to share more of your stories and it is a must that we do another program of “The Eastern Family and Their Eastern Brats! to show the world that Eastern’s Legacy will always go on in the future!

Love and thanks to all the “Eastern Brats” and to their “Eastern Parents”!

Dorothy on Behalf of Captain Neal Holland and The EAL Hosts

________________________________________________

Date : August 28, 2017
Name : Lizabeth Minuto
Subject: : Halloween Show

This Eastern Brat would love to join in that episode as a cast member! I am Estan and Linda Fuller's daughter.

Lizabeth

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This listener has the following comment: 

Date: August 22, 2017

From: John Stephen Lane Sr.

I would argue that "other airports" around the world are irrelevant to American tastes and needs. Yes, many of our airports have needs, but they cost money. This is a nation which refuses to accept the concept that infrastructure is a moving object. We wait till someone breaks before we argue about whose going to pay for it, after, of course, all the finger pointing. This is a downside of a free and democratic society. If the Chinese, for example, see a need, they just build it. No hassles, no arguing, they just do it. In the U.S. the environmental impact studies could take a decade after all the lawsuits are settled.

________________________________________________

Date: August 22, 2017

The chosen topic last night was very informative, and what we need to keep our airport infrastructure in the minds of not just our listeners but the public eye. We all need to ensure that some of our tax dollars are placed into funding U.S. airports’ aging infrastructure around our country. As Americans we must keep ahead of the other countries’ airports to keep strong.

________________________________________________

From: Jim Holder
Sent: Tuesday, August 15, 2017 5:03 PM
To: 'Dorothy Gagnon'
Subject: RE: Spectacular Program As Guest Speaker on The EAL Radio Show Last Evening, Topic "Embracing A Loved One with Alzheimer’s or Dementia"