Keep it up!

Dear Fort Frances:
I have just come back from working as a volunteer at Lake Norfork at the BassCat Owners Invitational Tournament.
Any current owner of a BassCat boat is encouraged to come along with a partner, who is often a spouse, child, or just good buddy to compete. The winner is awarded a new boat (worth over $20,000 U.S.), with the runner-up also getting a new boat (worth $18,000).
And each team has a chance to win a boat worth 15,000-plus just for showing up.
Two young men drove all the way from California and won first place.
There is no entry fee, except for $20 for those wanting to get in a big bass jackpot which is, of course, optional. There were 739 teams. Yes, I said 739 teams from all over the U.S. (and two from Ontario by the way).
Most stayed at motels and resorts for several days. We gave factory tours and boat rides, and the high school band put on a barbecue. There also was a rock/country (I could not tell which) band to entertain.
Every trailer was checked by factory personnel, who made minor repairs such as replacing burned out tail light bulbs for free.
All in all, it was a wonderful week for each of us.
Now, not to take anything away from the good people in Arkansas, but I want to tell you that it did not compare with the time we have at the Fort Frances Canadian Bass Championship. I do not know how much your Chamber of Commerce or town council realizes the value your event has in promoting not just Rainy Lake but the community as a whole.
Value not just in the money contestants spend while staying and eating in Fort Frances but in the great publicity, which cannot be bought for any price.
Anglers know about you and your event all the way down to Mexico City. My hope is that this event, and the enthusiasm of your exceptional volunteers, continue forever.
I am confident your town council and generous sponsors get more than their money’s worth. Keep it up Fort Frances!
Signed,
Phil Bangert,
At Beautiful
Sunny Lake
of the Ozarks