| For learning about flying and aircraft, there's
no place like Usenet -- specifically the "Rec.Aviation.Piloting", "Rec.Homebuilt",
and "Rec.Aviation.Owning" newsgroups. These forums attract hundreds
(thousands?) of aviation enthusiasts each day, and represent a depth and
breadth of knowledge that is simply not available anywhere else.
Many "regulars" have participated in these groups for years. Over time,
relationships develop that transcend the impersonal nature of the internet,
occasionally developing into strong and fast friendships. The "Rec.Owning"
newsgroup in particular has developed into a close-knit bunch, with many of
us passionate about our airplanes and the lives we lead with them. (Or is
that "for" them? :-) Over the years Mary and I have met many of our
"cyber-friends" in "real" life, and without exception these folks have been
wonderful!
The major drawback to the newsgroups, however, is
that they do not allow the transmission of photos. As a result, we all
operate in a text-based, 2-dimensional world, never knowing what each other
looks like, never being able to "show off" our favorite flying machines.
Until now! Scroll down to view an ever-growing
Rogue's Gallery of some of the participants on the newsgroups. We can now
see and admire each other's aircraft, and appreciate what we're all working so
hard to maintain!
(To have your pride and joy
added to this gallery, simply click the "Contact us!" button at left, and send
me a few pix as "attachments" to your email with a couple of sentences of
introduction...)
|