Happy Independence Day

The July 4th holiday is upon us. It seems like the snow just melted here in the north country; well OK it has been a few months. And now we are already celebrating what seems to be the middle of summer. The retail stores, the television, the roads and the airports all seem to be a buzz with people purchasing, planning, and traveling for the holiday. Here in the United States, Independence Day is more commonly referred to as the Fourth of July. As we celebrate this weekend let’s not forget the true meaning this holiday represents; the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. Let’s also remind ourselves how valuable our freedom really is. Say thanks to all those who have or currently are serving our country – both at home and abroad. They have much to do with our Independence. I’ve always considered my ability to enjoy personal and recreational aviation as a freedom – one that I take seriously. Many people around the world, aviators and potential aviators, do not have the same freedoms we do when it comes to general aviation. There are many organizations today such as EAA, AOPA, NBAA, and NATA to name a few that continue the fight for our general aviation Independence. My thanks go to these groups as well. One of the activities that I plan on doing this holiday weekend is to go hang out at the local airport and enjoy this freedom. Whatever your holiday plans are be it work or vacation, travel or stay-at-home, flying or driving, parades or carnivals, picnics or parties – enjoy and be safe. Keep ‘em flying, Ron