Of Magazines and PFF
George Conway
July 2006President’s Message
I have a problem. It is with magazines. First, let me say that I am not by nature a packrat. I routinely clean up my desk at work, mostly around the time that I am looking for that certain document that I know is hidden among the flotsam and jetsam in front of me. But, on the subject of magazines I am powerless to the collection urge.
I find that fishing magazines have very useful information: what is the newest nymph on the Green River, what the Alaska resorts are charging this year, how to tie cripple what-you-call-it that will only work on one section of a river I will never visit and only the three days after the full moon in July. With all this useful stuff, how am I ever going to throw them out? Yes, some magazines are so old that the resorts they talk about have gone out of business. Yes, the latest in fiberglass rods is somewhat outdated. But gee, maybe there is some kernel of information that will graduate me from the also-rans to the elite of the fishing community.
With my ascension to the fishing elite about as likely as the Democrats coming up with a cohesive, intelligent, and winning strategy, I admit I should get rid of them. But how? You don’t just throw them in the trash after pouring over them for hours trying to go to sleep even though they are a poor alternative to sheep. Their dog-eared corners are like old friends guiding me to the interesting articles I should read. The trash bin seems so cold. The recycle bin seems so harsh. But now they are taking over my nightstand. Even the special magazine rack for them is overflowing onto the dog bed. Te dog hasn’t been able to sleep there in two months. I wonder if that is why he keeps growling at me with sleepy eyes.
I now solemly swear that I will keep no magazine longer that six months after I receive it. They will go the way of the Dodo and go to the magazine rack in the sky. This should reduce my clutter, make my wife happy, let the dog sleep in his bed, and still keep me up to date on the latest products, techniques, and destinations. I say this with all the convictions of a junkie. I predict that the first time someone brings back issues of “Fly Tier” to a PFF meeting, I will break down and load up on out-of-date issues that have no relevance to the current world. There is no rest for the wicked.
It has been a great year. I have enjoyed every minute of it. I want to thank my Board of Directors for their support, ideas, and good humor. Their interest and willingness to give of their time in the face of all the aspects of modern society pulling them in innumerable ways is what powers PFF. For that, I am grateful. A club is only as good as it’s members. I was very fortunate to have an excellent board this year:
1st VP Rodney Chun (even though he is now in New York)
2nd VP Roger Finke
Secretary Sheree Kajiwara
Treasurer Homer Eaton
Director Jim Johnston
Director Chris Rich
Director Jerry Bernaccnhi
Director Bob Schwehr
Director Rich Catanzaro
Advisory Director Mike McGuire
I am especially grateful for Roger stepping up and taking on the presidency. He will make a great president. But as with every president, he will need help. If you are interested in doing more for the PFF, just contact one of the directors, old or new. They know what needs to be done.
Thank you all!
George Conway
p.s. July is the time for the installation dinner and raffle. Sign up with Les Junge at 650-593-4982. It’s $25 per person, and well worth it!
See you there!
