Come on guys, let’s put this thing to rest.

[Ron C]

As I’m sure you guys have noticed, I have stayed out of the Lake Mission Viejo controversy. I have done so for a couple of reasons. The first reason being that I was not there when Mike Long caught his big bass, so I don't know any of the details (other than what was put in print). The second (and main reason) is that both Gerry and Mike are friends of mine. Albeit neither are real close friends, but both have earned the utmost respect in my book.

Based on what I have read on this board, it appears that Gerry and Mike have communicated over this issue. I sincerely hope that they have worked this thing out, but the bottom line is that this is between them and is none of our business. Gerry and Mike are big boys and they both have enough sense to know that nothing good can possibly come out of a continuing feud.

Unfortunately, the continuing posts and subsequent responses over this issue stand to do nothing more than (try to) force us to take sides, whether intentionally or not. I, for one, refuse to do so because, as I said, I have nothing but the utmost respect for both of these men, and that is that.

As far as the intervention of the forum moderator(s) go, let’s cut them some slack. I admit that I was the first to challenge them for locking the original thread, but after much reconsideration, it became obvious to me that they were just trying to prevent things from getting really nasty, which has pretty much occurred anyway. Keep in mind that the board moderators do not personally know most of us, or of our relationships or friendships with one another. They are simply trying to keep the peace.

All that being said, let’s all get back to that very passion that we all share and put all of this behind us.

[Gerryjig]

I'm tired of this, but with you on this Ron....with the exception that it IS all of our business. That's why I said something. I promise I'm done!

[Jim V.]

Amen Ron.
Give it a rest & move on.