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With Thanksgiving being last week (hope yours was as great as mine), I found myself reflecting on the blessings in my life, as we all should. One that stands out is being part of the Kansas Bass Nation Master Class. Being inducted as one of the original members in 2022 was a tremendous honor. This group along with many others, would shape my journey.
I can say with absolute certainty that I wouldn’t be where I am today—or the person I’ve become—without the support, camaraderie, and inspiration I’ve found in this incredible community. The friendships I’ve built, the lessons I’ve learned, and the encouragement I’ve received have all played a significant role in my growth, both on and off the water.
In fact, it’s because of this group that I was able to secure my position at Bassmaster—a role that was nothing short of life-changing. That opportunity introduced me to thousands more amazing individuals who share the same passion for the sport, many of whom I’m proud to call dear friends. If you’re reading this, chances are you’re one of them, and I want you to know how much you mean to me.
This group isn’t just about bass fishing; it’s about fostering a shared passion, challenging one another to improve, and building connections that last a lifetime. Each of you has made an impact on me, and for that, I am profoundly grateful.
A couple of week prior to Thanksgiving, our community hosted the BASS Nation Championship! And while I cant say that I care for the new format, at all, but that's just me, what I do LOVE about it, is it did bring a lot of old, dear friends and introduced me to many new friends, that I would never have met with the old much smaller field. And for that I am grateful! At the beginning of the week, our friends from Louisiana showed up with fresh off the boat shrimp, BIG SHRIMP! Master Chef Dave Cavell, showed us how to do an authentic shrimp boil. He left the pot, burner, stir paddle and a bunch of seasoning, so now we know how to do it right, and have the correct authentic stuff to do it with!
Above are the Pennsylvania crew, Idaho crew and Minnesota crew!
Toward the end of the week, we hosted a Chili Feed for the guests of the Lake Lodge, the BASS Nation Presidents and Youth Directors that were here for the leadership conferences, BASS Staff and friends. It was a great night of fellowship, great stories, food and memories.
That brings us to Thanksgiving..... I got to spend it with my favorites.... My Wife Valerie, the best....my favorite daughter Brie, the best designer on the planet, check out Cedar and Stone....My favorite son (pretty darn good dad) and the best daughter in law ever, Nicole. My favorite granddaughter Emelia, Favorite Grandson Brooks and favorite grand dog Riggins!
We hung out, played games, ate, took part in a family tradition where we go to hobby lobby on black Friday, draw names and you buy a fitting ornament for the person you drew, then we exchange them.... Super fun! It may have been the least hectic Thanksgiving we've had in a while. At least it seemed that way to us. On a side note, Grandpa Jon won the FB online voting for the best Gingerbread house!
So as the year comes to a close, we find ourselves filled with gratitude and humility reflecting on the journey we’ve shared together. What an incredible year it has been!
To our valued customers (friends), you are the heartbeat of everything we do. Your visits, smiles, and shared stories have made the Lodge more than just a place—it’s become a home for unforgettable moments. Thank you for choosing us as your destination and for bringing your joy to Grand Lake.
To our friends and family, your unwavering support has been our foundation. Whether through words of encouragement, helping hands, or simply cheering us on from afar, you’ve been our rock. We couldn’t do what we do without you.
As we look ahead, we are excited for the opportunities and adventures that await in the new year. But for now, we want to pause and acknowledge the incredible memories we’ve made together this year. From peaceful mornings on the water to lively evenings around the fire, every moment has been a treasure.
From the bottom of our hearts, thank you. Here’s to another year of making memories, sharing laughter, and enjoying the beauty of Grand Lake together.
Merry Christmas,
Jon and Valerie
The Lake Lodge at Grand Lake O' the Cherokees
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