Why Go to Club Meetings?
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Every action we take in life has consequences. Most of us learn to gather information, weigh pros and cons, risks and rewards and make decisions based upon our individual value systems. Everyone’s opinions are different and that’s what makes life interesting. Viva la difference! Paragliding is a slice of life. It is risky. It’s also about the most fun you can have with your clothes on. My chief goal is survival and I hope to be soaring well into my golden years. My plan is to mitigate the risk by learning as much as I can about equipment, sites and techniques. Since my personal experience is relatively limited, I rely heavily upon the experience of others.
Without exception, I have learned something at every club meeting, which makes me a better pilot and may someday save my life. I feel fortunate to live in an area where there are so many experienced pilots who are willing to share their knowledge of the sport. The Bay Area instructors, sponsors other advanced pilots generously offer their expertise, without compensation, simply for the love of the sport. The meetings generally last an hour or so, not counting "social hour." Discussions range from evaluation of equipment, tips on techniques, safety and site information. We talk about our flights. We plan trips. Sometimes the discussions are passionate. They are always informative.
There have been debates over site regulations and how they can be changed. This has led to larger debates over how decisions are made within the organization. There are lots of opinions. Everyone who attends the meetings has an opportunity to express his or her opinion. Everyone’s ideas are considered and respected. Motions are made and voted on. The atmosphere is generally cooperative. In the past, there were discussions about whether or not proxy/e-mail votes should be accepted. I would rather see members come to the meetings and vote in person. This way, they would have an opportunity to consider other member’s points of view. In addition, the membership would have an opportunity to consider their views.
If you don’t regularly attend the club meetings, I encourage you to do so. I believe your attendance can and will have an impact on paragliding in the Bay Area. I think you’ll find that attending the meetings will enhance your own individual paragliding experience as well.
Without exception, I have learned something at every club meeting, which makes me a better pilot and may someday save my life. I feel fortunate to live in an area where there are so many experienced pilots who are willing to share their knowledge of the sport. The Bay Area instructors, sponsors other advanced pilots generously offer their expertise, without compensation, simply for the love of the sport. The meetings generally last an hour or so, not counting "social hour." Discussions range from evaluation of equipment, tips on techniques, safety and site information. We talk about our flights. We plan trips. Sometimes the discussions are passionate. They are always informative.
There have been debates over site regulations and how they can be changed. This has led to larger debates over how decisions are made within the organization. There are lots of opinions. Everyone who attends the meetings has an opportunity to express his or her opinion. Everyone’s ideas are considered and respected. Motions are made and voted on. The atmosphere is generally cooperative. In the past, there were discussions about whether or not proxy/e-mail votes should be accepted. I would rather see members come to the meetings and vote in person. This way, they would have an opportunity to consider other member’s points of view. In addition, the membership would have an opportunity to consider their views.
If you don’t regularly attend the club meetings, I encourage you to do so. I believe your attendance can and will have an impact on paragliding in the Bay Area. I think you’ll find that attending the meetings will enhance your own individual paragliding experience as well.
