Dear Friends:

After the events of the past week it is hard to put into words how our thoughts and prayers have been with all of those affected in Pennsylvania, Washington and New York. We sincerely hope that our wonderful Nation will cope and get back into some semblance of a routine to take their minds off some of the anguish, sadness and grief that have been suffered.  We can only imagine the feelings and our heartfelt sympathy goes out to all.

Our thoughts, prayers and condolences go out to the families, relatives and friends of those involved in the tragic events that have recently unfolded. This terrorist attack has dealt such a blow to our Nation, a country where we thought this could never occur.  As we have been struck and horrified at this attack on our freedom, we also believe our Nation is going to be stronger, stronger than ever before, and we are going to be closer to each other and much more determined to keep any one from ever attacking us again.  Business has not been nearly as important since September 11th to us.  Our main thoughts have been our families, as we are sure have yours.  

The grief is unabated as we care for our families, our friends and each other. We will continue to grieve for a long time, but we will serve and be committed to our partners and clients.  We, as a Nation, will prevail over the cowards.

We don't want to dwell on the events going on, but we wanted you all to know that we have been thinking of the people in New York and Washington daily.  

Thank you all for your compassion, kind words of support, and strength.

Take Care, God Bless You and Your Families, and GOD BLESS AMERICA!  


Helmut K. Werner          Andreas M. Rathke
President                         Executive Vice President