Prez Sez

We can Fly! We can Fly! I was pretty excited to hear the good news that the FAA has lifted the restrictions on flying hang gliders. After all, we had to postpone the Pulpit Fly-In until Columbus Day Weekend, and we missed some good flying opportunities. After having our freedom taken away, what a relief it was that we can take up our favorite pastime.

Once the immediate sense of relief passed, I thought back on what we had given up. One weekend of flying and a few week days. It really didn't add up to much when I considered the tragic events of September 11th. Not to mention the time spent by volunteers to help the victims of the attacks at the Pentagon and in Manhattan. For the past two weeks at work at the Securities and Exchange Commission, it has seemed that every broker I talked to in New York had witnessed incredible suffering or lost a close friend or family member. I also spoke to people who lost their business or were close to being laid off as the impact of the attacks became more wide spread.

Suddenly, the thrill of getting to fly last weekend seemed less important. Hopefully I better appreciate how serious the attacks were and how lucky I am that my family and close friends are ok. I also intend to contribute a little more to the relief efforts, and maybe I'll appreciate the fact that I have the opportunity to fly hang gliders. I also would like to think that I gained a little perspective on what's important.

Tom McGowan

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