To all able to attend this year’s ICRBE, I hope it was informative, beneficial, your journey was safe, and most of all, FUN. I am jealous for a myriad of reasons I could not attend, personally meeting many of you who have helped me so much being highest on the list. If you have a bit of time, let the rest of know how the show was. Of course, thank you Tom for orchestrating it all and making it happen!!!
Now get back to wrapping!!!

Mark Talmo
FISHING IS NOT AN ESCAPE FROM LIFE BUT RATHER A DEEPER IMMERSION INTO IT!!! BUILDING YOUR OWN SIMPLY ENHANCES THE EXPERIENCE.

Here is video of the NERBs booth, the 80 rods we had on display, and a memorial set up to those who have passed away [www.youtube.com]

Billy,
Thank you sharing some of the Expo with those of us who could not attend. I also commend you for your memorial to those who have passed away this last year. GREAT JOB!!!

Mark Talmo
FISHING IS NOT AN ESCAPE FROM LIFE BUT RATHER A DEEPER IMMERSION INTO IT!!! BUILDING YOUR OWN SIMPLY ENHANCES THE EXPERIENCE.

The NERBS do absolutely stunning decorative butt wraps and handles, and seeing them in person makes you really appreciate how awesome they really are. Billy has been in the forefront of moving this type of art form forward. I have a lot lot of respect for what he has done.
Norm

Norm, it was great to talk to you this weekend!! I'm glad that you attended and took time to grab me and shake me up lol. It is great to see so many people, from so many parts of the world, different ages - all under one roof supporting the industry and the craft. Positive energy and vibes all around the show, was such a great event - every year it is. WE're already planning for next year, and I've been promoting and recruiting people to start making plans to attend. The only way the show grows, is if those who attend (both vendors and attendees) make an effort to promote and advertise it.

Norman,
Thank you for your reply as well. I am glad your wife took you with her to the Expo again this year. I certainly agree with your comments on Billy’s and other’s threadwork and handle fabrication. The amount of time, effort, insight, knowledge, experience and general artistic ability required to produce such stunning rods is mind-boggling. I want to be just like them when I grow up!

Mark Talmo
FISHING IS NOT AN ESCAPE FROM LIFE BUT RATHER A DEEPER IMMERSION INTO IT!!! BUILDING YOUR OWN SIMPLY ENHANCES THE EXPERIENCE.

I am not even close to being a rod artist, I have a hard time matching my socks. However, I love building rods and try to promote the craft by sharing what expertise and experience I have with others. I think we all trying to do this, as well as learning.new things by interacting with others. It’s a lot of fun, and the learning continues!
Norm

Does anyone know the vendor that was selling fly blanks for $5? They were 2 piece, brown in color. Thanks for your help!