Just as the sponsors of the site deserve a big thanks every year, my personal sponsors allowed me to be able to both be here, and do the things I do all season long.  With that, a huge thank you to everyone who participated in CAST For Kids with me this year.

I won't break it down, there are too many and I would hate to forget someone but you know who you are and you know how I feel about you being there to help out the kids.  You all are great.

Also, a special thank you to UPS but not just for their support of CAST for Kids and it's future growth but specifically to my boss for allowing me the flexibility needed on so many occasions.  Without his direct support, many things would not have happened.  That was huge.  Thanks Pat.

For the warmth, tip to toe, the dry as toast comfort I enjoyed through any and all foul weather,......The North Face.  Unbelievable gear, unbelievable people, unbelievable company.  Top notch, head to toe. NEVER STOP EXPLORING.  Thank You.

Brent & Amy Bollinger of ***.  You step up on every occasion.  Whether it's the kids, the members, the general public or me, you got us all covered.  A special Thank you and big wishes for a prosperous 2008 season.

Calcutta Optics- Providing me with the "window" into the bass' world.  Thank you.

To all my friends and fishing partners.  We had some fun, didn't we?...................Thanks for sharing your time and allowing my free time to be so enjoyable and fruitful.  This is why we do what we do right here.  Good times with good people, the ultimate wealth.  Thanks for making me such a rich man.

Wishing everyone a new PB and a safe, fun season for 2008.

TAKE A KID FISHING!!

With deep gratitude,

J. Russell Thetonia

a.k.a. Low_Budget_Hooker

What about the boys?  Thank THEM for your 189 pounder bass! ;D

To all my friends and fishing partners.  We had some fun, didn't we?...................Thanks for sharing your time and allowing my free time to be so enjoyable and fruitful.  This is why we do what we do right here.  Good times with good people, the ultimate wealth.  Thanks for making me such a rich man.

They're in there.  Of course the whole Jordan Family is high on the list.  But man, it's a big list.  I'm fortunate to be close with many of the people I fish with on a daily basis.

I should thank you,haha,.  Russ has made videos of my kids since they were born. Those, especially the fishing ones, will be priceless to the boys when they are older.

I can't wait to start fishing and filming again.  Nick has been casting at snowbanks over in the high school parking lot.  He said he feels like "the guys" because he's fishing in his snowsuit.  He thinks his snowsuit looks like the bibs we wear fishing.

I'm ready, the boys are ready, i just wish mother nature was.

I have seen some of those videos and your kids are adorable and I told him that there is money to be made.  He has one that should be the perfect commerical for taking a kid fishing.

When I "mentor" my young soldiers... I tell them... listen there are things about everyone that you can learn from... once you get to know a person... don't just take the good stuff to emulate but take the bad on what NOT to emulate... let me tell you.. Russ. I want to be just like YOU when I grow up... you da man!

Then my advice would be to just never grow up!  Unfortunately, where you are, you aren't given the choice.

Kind words Sarge, thanks.

I think it's safe to say I can include in my thanks, all the hero's who are not home right now.  Thanks to all who are busy protecting our freedoms.    

Wishing you all a safe and speedy return to your families.