The Sisterhood and Brotherhood of the Traveling Scarf and Tie.

 Photo courtesy of Sara Pinto Keagle of The Flying Pinto

Mergers are like an arranged marriage, the families are thrilled with the match but the bride and groom keep wondering what the benefit will be for them. You and I are destined to marry but we're still wondering when and how it will take place. No doubt angst and concern are falling around you like rice on the chapel steps. 
Regardless of the uniform you sport you can see your flying changing, new domiciles/bases opening and your experiencing new procedures, rules and ideas. We are told the future will be rosy but like a groom on the eve of the big day we're hesitant to take the plunge. We're wondering if our new partner will be nice and cooperative.  And like those two souls in that arranged marriage for better or worse we're in this up to our necks. 

Photo courtesy of Kathe Hull

Kathe Hull, a JFK flight Attendant believes that flight attendants are the same regardless the uniform they wear. She thought that if we could exchange scarfs and ties with a kind word to our brothers and sisters on the other side that it could alleviate some of the fear and stress that accompanies a merger. Developing the idea from the movie "The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants"  Kathe devised a plan to allow the f/as of each subsidiary to exchange and wear one another's neck ware.  USA Today was so impressed they included Kathe and her idea in an article in today's issue. You can find it here. Flying Together also included Kathe's idea and Sam Risoli demonstrated his support saying, "We appreciate Kathe's inspiring idea and her efforts to bring us all together in such a positive way". 

Photo courtesy of Kathe Hull

Flight Attendants at each domicile/base have begun putting their neck ware and sometimes wings with a note attached telling a bit about themselves and their hope for the future. Just as the bride and groom traditionally shared a moment on the eve of their wedding we too can begin to know one another.  It's a small gesture but it's one that will help us confront the future with a less apprehension knowing our sisters and brothers on the other side (whichever side that is for you) share the same concerns. . 

Photo courtesy of Gina Boccadoro

Known as the Scarf Squad they are placing the boxes in all domiciles and bases. Take a look around for the box in your base and add a scarf or tie  and your thoughts. Chances are the recipient will be thrilled to share and who knows he/she could be you jumpseat partner in the not too distant future. 

Photo courtesy of Lucy Evangilista

Photo courtesy of Patricia Van Keer Flanagan

Thanks Kathe for sharing your terrific idea! And Thank You to the Scarf Squad for making this idea a reality! I know we will all enjoy seeing all those smiling faces sporting a sister's scarf or a brother's tie.

All text and photos are property of Cross Checked unless otherwise noted.