Kill Devil Hills, NC
September 23, 2003

Despite significant damage to much of the Outer Banks community and Northeastern North Carolina, event planners for the First Flight Centennial Celebration say the December 12-17 event will occur as planned. The National Park Service and First Flight Centennial Commission express optimism for the local hurricane recovery efforts as well as the upcoming centennial celebration.

"Our thoughts are with our neighbors here in Dare County and throughout the region who were impacted by Hurricane Isabel," says Lawrence A. Belli, superintendent, Outer Banks Group, National Park Service. "Right now we are focused on clean up efforts in our communities, parks, and taking care of our people. At the same time, our centennial planning team is committed to continue plans for the December 12-17 for the First Flight Centennial Celebration at Wright Brothers National Memorial."

Wright Brothers National Memorial sustained minimal impact from the storm. No structural damage was reported to the monument, Visitor Center, Pilot Facility, or new First Flight Centennial Pavilion.

Information to the public concerning event plans will continue to be provided on the First Flight Centennial Celebration Web site at http://www.firstflightcentennial.org For information on accommodations check the Outer Banks Visitors Bureau Web site at http://www.outerbanks.org.

Contact:

Lola Hilton
Centennial Planning Office
252.441.6291, ext. 226
LolaHiltonNPS@aol.com