Tom,

I left this reply concerning the seminars, but was afraid you wouldn't see it. It's too important to our craft and to me for you not to see.

Tom,

One more suggestion: I spoke in person with Ralph and I put this question to him, not being morbid mind you. Ralph, what will we do when your gone? He just chuckled, and said "I don't plan on going anywhere anytime soon!". I then replied, "I hope not"!! He told me that you had been after him for years to write a book on repairs. My suggestion is KEEP ON HIM!!!!! I know that there are probably others out there that have just as much experience as him, but are they as willing to share their experience and knowledge, as this ICON of our craft? It would be a shame to lose all of that knowledge!!! Just my humble honest opinion.!!

Bill in WV

Actually, I doubt anyone out there has the experience Ralph does when it comes to repairs, and difficult repairs at that. What he can do with broken rods is nothing short of amazing. Would you even consider splicing a 3-weight fly rod tip that was broken 2 or 3 inches below the tiptop? Ralph does it all the time and you'd never know the rod had anything done to it. He's made some very difficult repairs on rods that are owned by good friends of mine and all report back that the rods feel and fish as good as when they were new. Not a single complaint of any kind.

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Just my point Tom!!!

What will we do if we lose that talent and knowledge????

Bill in WV

I agree, Just his knowledge and know how on making multi piece rods alone would make a great book!

Sounds like at least one good chapter in the book Tom is beggining now.

Raymond Adams
Eventually, all things merge, and a river runs through it..