Redtail, so glad to hear you have finally got the contract sorted out. It is a move in the right direction for us all.
Blacksheep on the subject of visas, have a look at the flight international jobs page, Sierra say they will sort out your visas. The only problem is that they are valid for 3 years only (H1-B) but can be renewed. If you want to take the family, they have to apply for an H3 (pain, takes ages). The only other option is the ethnic diversity program. Which allows a number of entrants from countries that don't usually qualify via other methods. Nicknamed the lottery, only problem is if your from England, Scotland or Wales, you can't apply but if you're from Ulster fill your boots.
£50,000 a year (@$33.50 per) sounds great but I don't think they want to let us in on the party. Besides its only money and they can't make proper beer over there !!