I never met or spoke with Stewart Kissel. He did, however, correspond
with me on occasion, most recently during the height of the agitated
discussion about the Soaring Society of America's financial scandal
one year ago. Out of the blue, Stu emailed to thank me for my efforts
to present an objective, reasoned approach in my postings and to ask
what he could do to help. I was grateful for all who did something
similar but I particularly remember Stu--and saved his thoughtful
notes--because he seemed to represent what I hoped were the vast
majority of SSA members: dedicated, supportive, knowledgable,
concerned, upset about the mess we found ourselves in but careful to
get the facts straight before making accusations or grand statements,
and, finally, willing to help. I'm sorry I never had the opportunity
to chat with him in person.

Chip Bearden
ASW 24 "JB"
USA