Several of us are close to home so getting torn down wasn’t to bad. Putting stuff up is a different story though. I’d like to say thanks to all the new friends made this year and all the old ones. Missed Ralph but he is hanging tough from what I hear. I wish Ken and Lana could've made it also Jim Upton.
If you weren’t here you missed some great deals and some new vendors with really nice stuff. The Reception was great in the new venue but every one needs to get closer to the front next time. I look forward to seeing the pictures from this year and using some of the new stuff I bought.
Thanks to all my fellow vendors and I hope you have a safe trip home. Also thanks to Tom for putting together another great show and his support team for lending a hand whenever needed.

I am new to rod building and this was my first experience at the Expo. What an amazingly wonderful group of people! My son (the fisherman) and I (the aspiring builder) were simply blown away by the warmth, friendliness and helpfulness we encountered with all whom we met there, vendors and visitors alike. Thank you to everyone responsible for this event, and a special thanks to all we met for their many kindnesses.

It was great to see many friends but it was also great to see that the craft and the show continues to grow. I was in awe by the wood of Steve Hoye, the thread of Billy Vivona, and the grips of Bill Ballou.

The reason Sammy wants folks to get closer to the front at the Reception is so he won't have to walk as far to meet each winner in the middle of the room. Seriously, the new Reception hall is outstanding. We would have never gotten that crowd fit into any of the previous Reception locations. This one allows plenty of room for growth. I was extremely pleased with it. First time ever I've not worried about fitting everyone into the room.

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