I really hate to hear this news. The DC 9-50 to me is the best airplane I have flown. I know it's time but I wish I had the opportunity to fly one last time before it leaves.
The DC-9 family are some Beautiful planes. Never flown on the B717 but MD-80s (-82 and -88) and the DC-9-50 are very smooth rides. Have to admit DC-9-50 is my ALL TIME FAVE