Flying for a Cause

This weekend, member Joe Howley and his family are kicking back and relaxing in Sea Island, GA. It may be their fourth visit to our Coastal Georgia destination, but this trip is special—this weekend, the Howleys are hosting John Hudson and his family, giving away an Exclusive Resorts vacation to a deserving family that captured Joe's heart earlier this year. For entire article, click here.

Pilots Ground Driving Skills Are Tested Raising Funds for PALS at the Monmouth County Horse Show

Patient Airlift Services was selected as the beneficiary of this year’s Monmouth County Horse Show held August 17 – 21 at East Freehold Park Showgrounds in New Jersey.   This exclusive “A” rated event, celebrating 116 years, included Jumper and Hunter Divisions, as well as special events to raise awareness and funds for Patient Airlift Services.  “Our efforts on fundraising and outreach were very successful,” commented PALS Vice Chairman and Board Member, John Rochelle who helped coordinate the event. “I think we were all pleased by the visibility we gained and the show itself was something that everyone who attended, genuinely enjoyed.”

A Silent Auction kicked off the schedule of activities on Wednesday and culminated on Sunday with the selection of top bidders for more than thirty items.  The highlight of the fundraising events was the PALS Pilot/Rider Class held on Saturday, August 20.  As part of this fun and very entertaining event, riders in the horse show were paired up with PALS pilots, volunteers and staff to form a speed racing team.  The race consisted of a course of 10 jumps for the riders alongside an obstacle course that the PALS pilots and volunteers had to navigate while driving a golf cart.   The combined time of the two races, minus any deductions for hitting obstacles, was the total time for each team.

Spectators were given the opportunity to bid on any of the 11 the teams they thought would win the race.   The winning team of PALS Board member and pilot, John Rochelle and equestrian Heather had the best time.   “We wanted participants to enjoy some of the first-rate riding that is always a part of the Monmouth Horse Show, while giving PALS volunteers an opportunity to participate in the fundraising.”  Explained race organizer Wiss Costanza.  “The PALS Pilot/Rider Class was a really fun way to get everyone involved and spotlight PALS.”