Back to the original question....darn tootin' we'll make it!
In the short time I've been here hopping 'round the Gulf I have seen a trend towards positive from everyone involved, from the head of the house, to the rampies, to the pax in wanting GF to live long and prosper. The pledge the owners made to us, plus the revitalized "can-do" attitude from within means that things should keep getting even more positive here.
We're not out of the wood-work just yet, but it's swinging upwards for sure. Yes, like others said, a war here would hurt short-term, lets not kid ourselves, but the long-term solid business plans that are approved and being worked towards mean growth and long-term viability for us.
There are only 47(?) years to go until we celebrate the 100th anniversary of the company.
The scene over in the sandbox beats things elsewhere in many aspects. Life here is pretty good. Me and the wifey feel safe, and we are enjoying not only the security of the company but where we now call home. The overall region is a nice place to be. Sure, there are things to bitch about here, but show me where there isn't someplace to belly-ache about the usual stuff. If you have any doubts about life here, or the long-term prospects of this company, just ask the old-timers how things REALLY had been, then look around at how many have been here for 7, 9, 14, 21 YEARS when they had the chance to skip off to other places.
My vote is to stay, and watch things grow from within.
There are times you wonder what you've done coming here, but once the dust settles it's a good place.
Good luck to everyone joining GF. Now if you can excuse us, we are back home visiting family and friends on days off, and have places to go and people to see!!
C.O.