Zel

He put on a good show as Frampton's Camel in the 70's when I saw him, but I personally like the Humble Pie stuff better.

Bobby Garland's HARD TIMES GRUB. They really did work when things were tough. When I heard they were going to stop making them I bought several 100 count bags (over 10 years ago). Now down to only around 50 or so left.... ARRHH!

I agree with the comments where they state that it depends on what part of the country you are in. In Pennsylvania I have used the estimator provided by the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (and have broke it down even further to 1/4 range, using math). We used it in our club paper tournaments and they were pretty accurate until you get over 20 inches, then it was a crap shoot. I was a tournament director, and often used a Berkley digital scale to compare to the paper weights, and it was pretty good. Also, during the spawn, when the females are loaded with eggs, it will not be as accurate. Here is a link to the Pennsylvania site: http://sites.state.pa.us/PA_Exec/Fish_Boat/images/pages/fishin1/weightlength3.pdf

I disagree. I personally like to know what other anglers think about an organization before I decide to join or fish an event. I like reading both the good and the bad. I like, as is the case right here in this thread in BR, when an angler voices a concern about an organization and an official offers a rebuttal or clarification. I think most of us here can make a reasonable decision when presented with both sides of a situation. If I just read what the organization states, then from those appearances all is roses but we all know things are not completely rosy. Many of us know there is favoritism shown at times, the rules are interpreted differently depending on who you are, rules are not followed on a consistent basis, or at times nothing is done depending upon how much hassle the situation causes the organization. I've fished tournament for over 15 years in various organizations and have seen it happen, and it has happened to me. Yes, ultimately if I don't like the organization, the tour, the locations, the officials, the anglers, or whatever, I won't fish the event. But how do we know if we don't like an organization when anglers are unable to voice their discontent over legitimate concerns. Mr. Tilson, I am curious about something. I don't wish to put you on the spot, and know it's not an ABA situation, but since you are obviously in favor of this clause, I would like to hear your opinion. If you don't wish to respond, it's quite alright. Situation. I once fished in a BASS state Regional Federation tournament. The winners would move on to the Divisional. There were two different tournaments going out of the same marina at around the same time. Three boats from our tournament left with the other tournament, and those boats got approximately 1/2 hour of extra fishing time than the rest of us. These were seasoned tournament anglers who should have know better, and know you don't leave until your boat number is called and you pass the checkpoint with livewells opened. A protest was filed. The officials decided weeks later that nothing would be done and no action would be taken over the protest. All we were told from the officials is the situation was discussed by the organization and their decision was final. One of the anglers of those three boats moved on to the Divisional. But we knew the real reasons why nothing was done (we were told "unofficially"). There was some confusion at the time of blast off. The angler who was moving up was a well liked and a well respected individual. Trophies, money, and media information was already given out. The people running the tournaments were volunteers, and it is hard to find people willing to do so much for so little, and they didn't want to offend them. But lets face it, their decision was ultimately wrong and unfair, regardless of their good intentions. And there was no recourse on our part. So, in this situation, why should I not be allowed to complain about the organization?

Wow, some still call it Christmas Day, I thought it was replaced by Commerce Day.

I've had the auto/manual SOSpenders World Class for about 5 years. It was a wake up call for me after a local acquaintance drowned while fishing alone. I have a wife and small children that count on me, and I thought getting one was a small price to pay for a little peace of mind. They are comfortable to wear all day long and do not impede movement. They also come with an attached (loud) whistle which not only can save you if you fall overboard, it also saves you from getting a fine if your boat is checked by the Fish and Boat Commission, and your horn isn't working. Other than the fact that you can never be sure 100% that the auto model will work correctly, the only drawback I've noticed is in torrential rain. The literature states that rain will not activate the auto model, but I have found this not to be accurate. On two occasions while traveling around 35 mph in torrential rains, the SOSpenders were activated. Changing the CO2 cartridge, pin and sensor mechanism is quite easy. I was also told by a PA Fish and Game warden that the only way they are classified as a life preserver is if you are wearing them.

Sounds like the PRO and the DOE caused you a little WOE (sorry couldn't resist)

Here is another opinion. Tournament fisherman will always be a target because they are a very visible group. You can't make statements (that people listen to) about individuals, but you can about an organization or entity. It wouldn't matter one iota if they drove 10 mph and threw $20 bills out the back of the boat. People who have shoreline property think they own the lake (water), and dislike anyone who encroaches upon their perceived rights, regardless of what the law states.

I look at it in a different perspective. I consider the recent trend at BASS: - Allowed loss of 2/3 of Federation members - Change in leadership - Focus on Elites, and the reduction of other big tournament trails (minimizing the expenditure to operate a structure for up-and-coming anglers into the Elite series). - An apparent transition into a Sell Off (this is what I believe it will eventually become, with a prize partnership with BASS) of the Weekend Series to ABA In my opinion, If I were a competitor of BASS, trying to figure out what is going on there, I would have to guess that BASS is attempting to transition the fan base from away from a Participation sport into an Appreciation sport, sort of like NASCAR. If I was working at BASS and given this directive, I would follow the same lines of events, making the transition seem as seamless as possible, and with as little impact to the fans affected. I've heard that some trails and ventures are not profitable. But any major change, venture, or shift from a new organization (such as ESPN taking over BASS) is usually expected to be financially unsound in the short term with anticipation of long term gains. You make tweaks to your plan, but you don't abandon so much unless your directive has changed dramatically. To make such drastic changes and so many changes after just a few years has me scratching my head. The only conclusion I could garner, is either the brass hasn't a clue (which isn't true) or they have been given a mandate to change the entire focus of BASS. Again, just my perspective on the changes. I'm sure others have just as equally valid differning assumptions.

Now you've got me worried muddy! I didn't realize that when I became a suit that they secretly implanted a chip in my head. I guess I'll have to schedule myself for a Chipodectomy. Either that or a Getthissuitoffofme.

When I've been asked this question in the past, it seems they don't really want to know whether or not you think they look fat, and they really don't want your opinion on fashion. They want you to reassure them that you find them attractive. So think in relative terms the answer is always NO.

Good for you Gman that you voted. Voting is a Right, and with that Right comes responsibilities. In my personal opinion you now have every right and authority to complain about the process, the government, the politicians, the spending, the appointments, abortion, and whatever else your vote has touched within our democratic process, as you've now done something about it.

Yes VOTE!!! If you don't like a candidate of the two major parties, look at some of the alternate parties. And if you still don't like anyone from the list, WRITE IN someone you think will do a good job. I have personally filled out write in votes in the past when I didn't like the choices. I know the election officials don't like it because it is extra work for them, but it is part of my constitutional rights to do so. Not voting and complaining about the results is a cop out! Yes, you still have the right to complain about the politicians even if you don't vote, and I have the right to tell you I won't even bother to listen to you if you didn't exercise your right to make a difference.

ALWAYS, and I repeat ALWAYS, take along a change of clothes and a towel when you take little kids fishing. Look at me dad, I'm king of the hill. That's really great but don't fall off that rock. Don't worry dad, I'll be carefulllllllll.......SPLASH!

God sometimes works in mysterious ways sometimes he relies on you to utilize the intelligence he has provided you, in addition to prayer. It is important to be on time for an interview. It is best if you arrive about 15 minutes early. This will give you time to relax and fill out an application, if necessary. Dress appropriately, since the first impression is a lasting one. Interview Tips: 1. Do some research on the business before the interview. 2. Practice interviewing. 3. Go alone. Do not take children or friends. 4. Greet the employer with a handshake. 5. Make frequent eye contact. 6. Smile, be polite, and try to relax. 7. Listen carefully to the questions asked. Ask the interviewer to restate a question if you are confused. 8. Answer questions as directly as possible. 9. Be upbeat and make positive statements. 10. If you've worked before, talk about what you learned from it. 11. Use examples of how your skills and abilities would fit the job. 12. Bring your "Fact Sheet" with telephone numbers and addresses of your references and former employers, just in case you are asked to complete an application. It is important as you prepare for your interview to anticipate what questions the employer might ask. The following questions are examples of the types of questions that you may be asked to answer. Questions to Expect (What the Employer May Ask You): 1. Tell me about yourself. (This is often an ice-breaker question. Keep the answer job or skill related.) 2. What do you know about the type of work we do? (This is your chance to tell what you know from the research you completed ahead of time.) 3. What is your weakness? (Always make this a positive answer. For example, "My spelling is not always perfect, so I always use a spell checker.") 4. What are your strengths? (Describe your skills in a way that will show you as a desirable employee for the company.) 5. Why did you leave your last job? ( Answer with a positive statement. Try not to say: "I was fired," "terminated," "quit," "had no babysitter," or "couldn't get along with coworkers or supervisor". However, you can say: "new job," "contract ended," "seasonal," "temporary," "career change," "returned to school," to raise a family," or "relocated.") 6. Why have you been unemployed for such a long time? (Tell the truth. Emphasize that you were looking for a good company where you can settle and make a contribution.) 7. Why should we hire you? (Make a positive statement, such as "I would like the opportunity to work with you and believe that I can do the work.") 8. Do you have references? (It is most important that you contact your references ahead of time and have their name, current address, and telephone numbers.) At the end of the formal interview the employer will ask if you have any questions. The following are examples of acceptable questions to ask. Questions To Ask The Employer: 1. Who would supervise me? 2. When are you going to make a hiring decision? 3. What are the opportunities for advancement? 4. What kind of training is provided or available? 5. Is there a dress code? Pitfalls (Reasons Why People Don't Get Hired): [ch61623] Untidy personal appearance [ch61623] Inability to express information clearly [ch61623] Lack of genuine interest or enthusiasm [ch61623] Unwillingness to start at the bottom [ch61623] Negative attitude [ch61623] Lack of eye contact [ch61623] Incomplete or sloppy application [ch61623] Being late for the interview Closing At the end of the interview: [ch61623] Thank the interviewers for their time. [ch61623] Request a business card. [ch61623] Shake hands in closing. [ch61623] Two or three days after the interview send a thank you note addressed to the interviewers. Thank You Notes After your interview, be sure to write a thank you note to the employer or interviewer. This is very important because a thank you note gives you one more chance to remind the employer about the special skills that you can bring to the company. It is a good idea to request the interviewer's business card before leaving the interview. This will help when writing your thank you note to correctly spell the interviewer's name and job title. Tips for thank you notes: 1. Neatly hand write or type the note. 2. Address the note to the interviewer or the lead interviewer. 3. Keep it short. (No longer than one page.) 4. First paragraph: Thank the employer for the interview. Also, mention that you are interested in the position. 5. Second paragraph: Briefly state a few of your skills without repeating the information on your resume word for word. Include any important information not mentioned at the interview. 6. Third paragraph: Provide your contact information, telephone number with area code, and an e-mail address, if available. 7. Sign the note with your first and last name. 8. Proofread the note to check for spelling or grammar errors. Ask another person to proofread the note. 9. Mail the note within two to three days after your interview. GOOD LUCK!

Another good satirical website that I like to visit is www.scrappleface.com.

I thought the 3 seasons in PA were: Almost Winter, Winter, and Road Construction.

I'm a PACK fan also not Green Bay but rather Lake Wallenpaupack. Jigging spoons and smallmouth bass what a combination. I guess that makes me a Spoon Head rather than a Cheese Head.

I do a lot of jigging with spoons in early spring, summer and fall. I like the Acme Kastmaster (1/4 oz and 1/2 oz) over the Hopkins type in clear water to off-colored water, and I prefer to go with a Silver Buddy blade bait in darker waters, and whenever I go below 30 feet. To me it appears the Kastmaster has a better action on the fall over the Hopkins. And I only use silver (when its sunny) and gold (when its cloudy) colors. I also like to go one hook size larger than the size jigging spoons comes with and also switch to red hooks. In addition I tie a few strands of mylar to the treble hook. I use a 5'9" medium action fast tip baitcasting rod, and now prefer to go with 10lb flourocarbon. One trick I've used with some success is (when all else fails) I put a tube bait over the Hopkins style jigging spoon. But the type of plastic is important as some baits stretch way too much after a little jigging action. You can also squirt some scent into this setup.

Maybe run a Bait Monkey challenge over the winter... but keep me out of it!

It sounds like your job was eliminated due to foreign trade. Please look into governmental assistance about learning a new profession or trade. I think the government might pay for it while you collect unemployment compensation. Some time ago my wife lost her job because of foreign trade, was able to collect unemployment benefits, had her education (to learn a new profession) paid by the government, and became a Certified Network Engineer in the computer science field in less than a year. Ask your former employer about it, the local job center and look here: http://www.doleta.gov/tradeact/ Good luck.

Man I hear where you are coming from. I've gone through similar problems. The only words of encouragement I can give you are to accept what has been dealt you, and to understand things could really be much worse. Learn to live within your limitations, and be thankful for an understanding wife. Unfortunately as you get older more heartache awaits you, but with a positive outlook on life, you will adapt. I've had to give up so much already that I enjoyed in the past, but have replaced it with other things that also provide fulfillment. Frustration, aggravation, and a loss of worth will always be present, but new challenges and opportunities do await you. Family, friends, a strong will, and for some - faith, will see you through the tough times. There's a song that goes through my head when things get tough... Tubthumping by chumbawumba: We'll be singing when we're winning We'll be singing I get knocked down but I get up again You're never gonna keep me down (Repeat) ticking the night away ticking the night away He drinks a whiskey drink He drinks a vodka drink He drinks a lager drink He drinks a cider drink He sings the songs that remind him of the good times He sings the songs that remind him of the better times Oh, Danny Boy, Danny Boy, Danny Boy I get knocked down but I get up again You're never gonna keep me down (Repeat) ticking the night away ticking the night away He drinks a whiskey drink He drinks a vodka drink He drinks a lager drink He drinks a cider drink He sings the songs that remind him of the good times He sings the songs that remind him of the better times Don't cry for me, next door neighbor I get knocked down but I get up again You're never gonna keep me down (Repeat)

My father served in the Navy on a Liberty Transport in WWII, a favorite target of the enemy. He never really talked much of his experience in WWII. But occasionally he told a couple interesting stories before he passed on. Many of the trips involved ferrying German prisoners of war to the U.S. On one occasion the trip involved transporting only German SS troops. They beefed up security for the transport because these were considered the elite troops of the Third Reich. My father said the SS troops were a big surprise to them. They were well mannered, very polite and gave them absolutely no problems, contrary to what they expected. Often my father would trade smokes or food items for medals and patches of the prisoners. On this particular trip my father was making hand gestures to an SS officer about trading for his SS lightning bolt and skull & crossbones patches. The prisoner smiled at my father and said in an American accent something like Sure, I would love to trade my patches for a taste of home. It appears he was an American university professor who was visiting family in Germany before the U.S. got involved in the war, and was conscripted into German military service against his wishes. One other story was about several trips to and around Japan right after the war. He told me stories of some of the massive caves where the Japanese had their secret weapons. Some of the things I remember him telling me he saw were rocket bombs, rocket suicide aircraft, jet planes, and mini suicide subs. Their job was to load the secret weapons onto the Liberty Transport, and take them back to the U.S. An aside My grandfather (on my father's side) was an immigrant to the U.S. from the Slovak Republic. He once showed me a letter he received and was signed by Adolf Hitler, before Germany went to war with the U.S. It seems the Slovak Republic was an ally of the National Socialist Germany (Nazi). From what I garnered, apparently Germany got hold of lists of Slovak immigrants to the U.S., and was targeting individuals who had vast experience in certain U.S. manufacturing process, which was considered beneficial to the Nazi war effort. I remember the letter asking my grandfather to return to the Solvak Republic, because his loyalty was expected to be with Hitler and his cause, and not with the United States. Hitler implored him to return and provide his experience to the efforts of the Third Reich. I asked my grandfather what he did when he got the letter. He said he laughed when he read the letter because he knew his country (America) was soon going to war because all of Europe was falling into the control of the Nazis. He felt war with Germany was the only way to free his family from tyranny in Europe, but was dismayed when it got into the hands of the U.S.S.R. after the war. He told me that after the war, his family had a novel way of getting money into the hands of their family in Communist Czechoslovakia. They would send their 80+ year old aunt to Europe by boat, and then she would take trains into Czechoslovakia with money sewn into her clothes. If she was ever approached by the police or the army, she would yell so everyone would hear her on the train that she was an American visiting family. She yelled that they would have to shoot her before she would allow them to put a hand on her. This tactic worked for her on several occasions I'm told, and she was never caught.

Small world Riskkid. My first car was a 1960 Corvair, same color as yours. I paid $100 for it in 1974 from a 93 year old neighbor. Lasted less than a year. Driving in the coal region of PA (windy roads and no guard rails) a car came screaming around a sharp corner into my lane. I swerved, the tires caught the stones on the edge of the road, momentum took me over the embankment, flipped twice on the way down, and landed roof down in a creek. Roof was crushed and I had to kick out the windshield to get out as water was coming in. When the police arrived and looked down the embankment, he asked if the driver was dead. I said nope, here I am.

First 3 letters of my last name not very imaginative.