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    Andrew is a CFI!!

    You might want to take a seat for this one…Andrew Spanier has officially soared into the prestigious club of CFI!! Yes, you heard it right – the guy who serenades us with his catchy tunes (Tralalalala) and entertains us with his vintage, stained, Tupperware collection is now certificated to teach you all how to fly. The amazing Monday night study group leader truly can teach a thing or two. And let's not forget his infamous habit of kicking off his shoes – or maybe even his socks – in the plane. Hey, Andrew, we know it's your way of feeling the wind beneath your wings, but maybe keep those tootsies covered for the passengers' sake, alright? Safety first, after all! Hats off to Richard Brong, Andrew's patient and undoubtedly brave CFI, for guiding him through this journey. We can only imagine the challenges he faced, from deciphering Andrew's lunch choices to navigating the mysterious world of ancient Tupperware. Awesome job Andrew! The singing, Tupperware-loving, shoe-shunning CFI extraordinaire!
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    Nick Soloed!!

    Guess what happened today?? Our very own Nick Chladek, a former Bay Area resident, known for maneuvering office chaos and utterly clueless about driving, made jaws drop as he took to the skies solo! Yes, you heard it right – he left the city of gridlocked roads, bad sports teams, and fellow bad drivers far behind and soared into the boundless blue yonder of Northern NV. This morning at KRTS, runway 08, in the magnificent N37JA, Nick embraced the wind beneath his wings and embarked on his solo flight adventure. While he might be accustomed to the hustle and bustle of the Bay Area, today he traded the rush of traffic for the exhilarating rush of flight. In the office, Nick's always been a good sport (unlike his Giants), but let's be honest – he sets himself up for some epic teasing, and we can’t resist. We're over the moon (or should we say, above the clouds?) to share that Nick is now soaking in the wonders of the sky, embracing the freedom and serenity that only flying can offer. Major kudos to his flight instructor, Greg Rudman, for guiding him with expertise and patience, making sure our former Californian became a sky conqueror. So, here's to you, Nick! May your wings stay strong, your flights be as smooth as a freshly tuned engine, and your adventures in the sky be as epic as your departure from the Bay area. Keep up the great work!
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    Derek is a CFI!!

    Buckle up for some exciting news! Our very own Derek Davis, the friendly face guiding you into your parking spot, the bug washer extraordinaire, and the guy who never fails to bring a smile to your face, is now a Certified Flight Instructor! Despite some squirrely skies, Derek showcased his exceptional skills and earned his Instructor Certificate today, proving he's more than ready to teach in our crazy Northern Nevada skies. Derek is nothing short of amazing. Not only does he juggle his roles here at GBA, but he also manages a beautiful family – his lovely wife Staci and adorable son Easton, who you might have spotted in the office on some Sundays. If that's not impressive enough, Derek coaches youth football (and had a pretty standout season!), works full time, and still finds time to lend a hand to our team once a week. Let's not forget the countless hours he spent studying and preparing for one of the toughest checkrides out there. Talk about dedication and determination! We're beyond thrilled for you, Derek! Your hard work and positive attitude inspire us all. Your achievement is a testament to your exceptional skills and unwavering commitment. A massive shoutout is also in order for Derek's CFI, Richard Brong, whose guidance played a significant role in Derek's success. Join us in congratulating Derek on this incredible achievement
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    Ann is a Private Pilot!!

    We are bubbling over with excitement to share some fangtastic news about an enchanting pilot, Ann Leeper! This Halloween, Ann, our high-flying superstar, achieved a "spooktacular" milestone – she earned her private pilot's certificate! Even more fangtastic was her calm and composed performance during the examination, proving that she's not afraid to take flight, even in the spookiest of skies! Ann's accomplishment is positively witchin' when you consider the dedication and hard work she put into this achievement. Despite her busy work schedule, she managed to attend study "ghouls," clock in countless flying hours, and immerse herself in all things aviation. It's no surprise that her passion for flying extends to her personal life, given that she's married to a pilot. Talk about a match made in Halloween heaven! And (quick dig) she did score better than him on her knowledge test 😁 What makes this achievement even more "fang-tastic" is Ann's ability to stay relaxed, even after returning from a week-long vacation in sunny Mexico, to face the freezing temperatures here at home. Her determination and resilience are truly spooktacular. Let's also take a moment to raise our broomsticks to her Certified Flight Instructor, Matt Helleckson. His expertise and mentor-spirit hauntedly played a significant role in Ann's success. Ann, your achievement is a treat, not a trick! We are absolutely batty over your hard work, passion, and unwavering commitment. Your success is sweeter than Halloween candy and reminds us of the importance of pursuing our dreams with determination and enthusiasm. Please join us in congratulating Ann on this enchanting accomplishment! ​
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    Joe soloed!!!

    Congratulations to Joe Arango on his first solo today! Soloing is a significant milestone in any pilot's journey, and mastering the pattern at KRTS, runway 08, in N328ME is a testament to Joe's dedication and hard work. It takes a special kind of passion and determination to kick off with such confidence, leaving behind the safety of instruction and taking to the skies alone (although I am sure he did not mind kicking his CFI Nathan out of the plane). Joe's enthusiasm for flying, his commitment to learning, and his love for every moment in the air truly shines through. Facing challenging conditions with a positive attitude is a mark of a skilled aviator, and it's clear that Joe is up for the challenge. While tomorrow's winds may keep him grounded, there's no doubt that he'll be back, ready to conquer the skies once again. A round of applause is also due to his CFI Nathan Morin, whose guidance and expertise have undoubtedly played a crucial role in Joe's success. It takes a great instructor to nurture and develop such a talented pilot. Wishing Joe continued success in his aviation journey. May the skies always be clear and the winds ever in his favor as he continues to pursue his passion for flying.
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    Lukas LOVES aviation!!

    Hold onto your propellers, folks, because Lukas Burton just aced his solo flight on Runway 08 at KRTS in N37JA, rocking his shorts and t-shirts in a true defiance of chilly temperatures! Talk about bringing your own sunshine, right? And can we talk about Lukas' love for aviation? It's not just love; it's a full-on, heart-pounding, plane-kissing romance! Check out the adorable pic of Lukas smooching the plane - now that’s what we call true love at first flight! Kudos to our amazing line tech, Shane, for keeping our planes sparkling clean and ready for passionate aviators like Lukas. Not only is Lukas acing his training, but he's also a ton of fun in the office, gracefully handling our witty comments and leaving us all with a smile on our faces. With his dedication and his CFI Grant Muzzio’s excellent guidance, there's no doubt Lukas will be earning that Private Pilot License in no time! Keep up the fantastic work, Lukas, and remember, the sky's not the limit - it's just the beginning of your airborne adventures!
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