Avoided Bravo like the plague last night until ...

[PaulMKE]

On a recent XC I departed KDPA which is just under a 3000' shelf of KORD. I picked up FF no problem from ORD approach, VFR 2500'. I had planned to stay at that altitude under the B, but was getting knocked around pretty good in turbulence. After about 10 mins approach comes back and says,
"uh, warrior, do you *want* to remain at 2500 or would you prefer to climb? "
"Affirmative, higher altitude would be great to find some smooth air."
"climb to 4500 cleared into the ORD bravo."

Later on this same trip the MKE approach guys called my destination and spoon fed the ATIS to me ... Cause... They're being nice?

All in all really super support from the controllers in some busy airspace.

 

[luvflyin]

I have been surprised on the last year or so in the LA basin. I was prepared to do my regular VFR run in the area and was cleared 4 times into the Bravo with out asking. Maybe they are loosening up a bit.

Maybe they've been getting in trouble for forgetting and the word is out that you better not forget so now they over do it.