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A note from Jerry regarding the PHW/VA Outing on Tuesday (5/19/09)
What a day.
We were feeling a little warm yesterday but no one noticed as the camaraderie among the veterans with their family members, VA staff and volunteers was at a high ( we had to chase this guy off the river as the smoke was blinding us). We even found a little shade to have a bite together and continue the fellowship.
Some High points of the day:
1) The Big Boom was a young fisherman who had unloaded his boat, parked the trailer, grabbed his 7 rods and jumped into his boat, hit the starter and blew up (yes "blew up") his battery. Some of us were digging deep into the gravel for cover when we heard the bang and we saw shrapnel in the air. I went over to see if he was all right and saw what looked mostly like dust on the bottom of his boat where the battery had been. His head was right over the battery when it blew and it and the acid missed him completely. He then coaxed and cajoled the 25 HP mercury for the next hour, and when I said "if it was mine, I would have swamped it about 45 minutes ago and sent it down river", it started. All watching learned a lesson in patience pays. (He came back later having caught three fish)
2) Next was another jump up reaction. Veteran Chuck was nice and comfortable in a lawn chair casting away, hopes high to catch the monster awaiting his fly. All of a sudden he found himself ankle deep in the river. With a hoot, a number of volunteers rushed over and moved he and the lawn chair back a few feet and paid closer attention to the river level. He removed his wet slippers and socks and enjoyed a little wet feet in the surf.
3) Fish, Fish everywhere. Many of us attempted early to find the secret fly pattern, only to be skunked. Then when the veterans were in position and casting away, it was who would strike first. Over the head, into the trees, and finally into the river were fly's everywhere. Everyone was waiting to hear 'fish on!".
4) Best Catch of the day goes to veteran Chuck, he potted a nice rock picker standing behind him.
5) Most fish of the day goes to Richard Zielike and his veteran side kick.
6) Most surprised for the day - all who went home and saw the temperature was almost 100 degrees while we were fishing.
7) Most enjoyment of the day - all who participated.
8) Next Outing schedule as of today - June 25th - location to be determined, 3-6PM
9) Next regular session at the hospital as of today - June 11th at 3 PM
10) Accolades to all
11) The best fish I saw for the day: (more below)
The veterans and regulars are excited over the number of new volunteers that attended. This will help expand the program and provide new opportunities for excitement and maybe even "BB Q's" in the future.
Thanks to all for making this first "outing" a memorable event!
Jerry Ray
Blog Comment From: Steve Truax
Jerry,
A day of fishing is always better with a bit of catching, but I thought we all had a great day with the Veterans and VAMC personnel on the river. I didn't notice how hot it had gotten until we were sitting in the shade having our little picnic afterwards - almost 100 degrees! A friend called me from Grand Marais and said it was snowing up there. Only in Minnesota! Thanks to all for sharing and participating. Looking forward to next time too.
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