In recent years, the programs have transitioned to computer graphics and video. The potential for gremlins goes up exponentially, but this allows us great flexibility in programming. Presenters travel with an arsenal of adapters, and usually carry our own video projectors because the industry standard is not yet standard. Rentals are very expensive, and borrowed equipment is fraught with peril unless it is tested well in advance. VCRs eat tapes, the house lights won t dim properly, public-address systems sound as if they are crammed with marshmallows, and sometimes there is a revival meeting or bagpipe recital going on in the next room.
Safety does put people in the spirit.
When you re alive, the possibilities for adventures are limitless just like flying. Anyone who has ever produced videotape knows the effort and expense that goes into making a quality product. A business trip to the Midwest, with a camcorder on board, coincided perfectly with a week of convection. There were storms on every leg of the trip. To sidle up to the edge of a 40,000-foot CB at a safe distance, admire the cauliflower, negotiate with ATC, fumble with the camera, and remember that the safety of the airplane took priority was a great education for me.