The sun streamed in under the cloud layer as we idled from the dock, the Wasp Junior canning along easily as the before takeoff checks were completed. The silver of the water shimmered through the quiet mid-week afternoon as we motored away from the shore into the midst of the finger of lake. Then, throttles up and—for a brief interlude we plowed through the rippled surface then came quickly up on the step. In less than 2,000 feet we’re into the air and soaring past the deep evergreens and oranges of the lakefront trees.
Self-sufficiency. Taking calculated risks. Delivering with integrity. Putting the customer first—truly. These attributes get thrown around a lot when folks talk about what makes a business, or its founder, successful. Not a whole lot of people measure up, in reality, and the day-to-day grind gives companies a ready excuse when they fall short of achieving the image they say they want to project.
