We missed a lot of the ROFB regulars this past weekend in Wisconsin. As
usual all the competitors were treated cordially by the Rhinelanders and
made to feel welcome by everyone we met. Make it a point to attend next
year.

Fluctuating weather and water temps on Mohawksin made fishing unusually
difficult, and I was fortunate to weigh in even a single bass the first day
and place fifth. We were on bass all weekend, but getting them to bite (or
in the boat) was extremely tough. Despite that, the days we spent exploring,
learning, and fishing the lake were a wonderful vacation and a good way to
cap off a great summer.

At the awards dinner at the Hubers, Steve Huber presented me with a book
donated by Joan Belongia of Brown Street Books in Rhinelander, _The Heart of
a Champion_ by Frank Deford. I was delighted! What a wonderful way to
recognize the attributes of winners and honor athletes who have exemplified
them over the past eight decades. I'm putting this book on the coffee table
in our reception area to encourage us to have the heart of champions.

I also received some excellent soft plastic lures, compliments of Driftwood
Lures, a much-needed Yo-Zuri crankbait (did Jack Dalzell arrange that?),
Stren fishing line, a few packs of Berkley Yum worms, some innovative jig
heads, and a Zoom shad kit and camo cartridge box. Secret Weapon Lures
donated Firetiger Perch spinnerbaits and Midnight Snack buzzrbaits. Other
items given out at the awards dinner were from Moe Conway (Zoom kits,
Shimano reel, Lure Magic spray, camouflaged folding camp chairs, Gerber
knife sharpener, Shrade knife, multi tools.... probably more) Ronnie
Garrison (tackle box), Jim Laumann (Gander Mtn. gift certificate), and
embroidered jacket by the shop that does Outdoors Frontiers logo-wear... A
lot of folks pitched in products and prizes to make this a fun event. I know
I missed some... I hope Steve will post a complete list to give credit to
all those folks.

Recognizing local sponsors and contributions personally makes soliciting
donations in future years easier and more productive as well. Their
donations are usually appropriate and are always appreciated, fostering a
very positive impression of the entire community. This morning I mailed a
thank-you note to Brown Street Books. I understand that this is not the
first time they showed support for this event; previously one of our
number -- was it Ronnie? -- received books they donated. I think they were
mystery novels set in Rhinelander and involving fishing.

I especially want to recognize Steve and Janet Huber, whose schedules were
turned upside down last week as they played host to this annual event. The
items they collected and arrangements they made took considerable time and
effort, I'm sure, and Janet put on a feast Saturday night that was easily
the culinary highlight of the week. If you've not tried "bear bourguignon,"
you're really missing a rare treat. It was delicious! Of course, Janet also
served up platters of grilled brats and buckets of beer -- the national
foods of Wisconsin, evidently -- to an appreciated crowd of hungry anglers.
Thanks, Janet and Steve.

Joe