Plane Crashes in Lexington; Long-time NTA Consultant Aboard

August 27, 2006

Plane Crashes in Lexington; Long-time NTA Consultant Aboard
Sunday, Aug. 27, 2006 – Comair flight 5191, which left Blue Grass Airport in Lexington, Ky., shortly after 6 a.m. today, crashed into a wooded field shortly after takeoff, approximately a quarter-mile past the runway. Forty-seven passengers and three crew members were aboard the CRJ 100; all but one, Co-captain James Polehinke, were killed.

Because NTA Headquarters is located in Lexington and NTA staff travel frequently, we have received several e-mails and phone calls related to the crash. No NTA staff were on the flight, however, local media outlets have reported that longtime NTA convention consultant Pat Smith was on the plane. Pat, very active with Habitat for Humanity, was en route to Mississippi to be there on the one-year anniversary of Katrina. The NTA family is extremely saddened to hear of Pat’s loss. We extend our heartfelt sympathy to Pat’s wife Jean, and to their entire family. We will keep them and everyone impacted by this tragedy in our thoughts and prayers. As NTA learns more, we will keep you updated.