Bring it Back
No more Shootout? Say it isn't so! The Lake Rescue Shootout will not see age 20 from reports I am hearing from Lake of the Ozarks, Mo. I've heard that other businesses on the water are turning in requests to the Missouri State Water Patrol but nothing has been approved at this point.

I guess my question to you at Powerboat is what is being done from the sponsor side to make this great event reach its 20th year? I know that the fire districts have a lot on their hands in planning this great event and that it may be taxing on the volunteers. Take this plea to the public. I am sure that regular people like you and me would volunteer to help keep this event going.

Shawn A. Mobley, DeSoto, Mo.

You are correct. The local fire districts will not be hosting the event this year, but a few community groups have applied for permits to put on the speed-run competition. Nothing has been announced so far, but the plan is to have another Shootout-type event on the lake the same weekend—the weekend before Labor Day. One thing is for sure, the event won't be called the Lake Rescue Shootout as the committee is not relinquishing the name. We'll keep you updated as we hope to stay involved.—Ed.

Fitting Tribute
I just received my December issue. From Gregg Mansfield's editorial to Matt Trulio's commentary, cover to cover the copy and photo selections are the pure love, joy and admiration that was Tom Newby. There is no finer example of the talent and passion behind this magazine than Tom's "Twin Towers" photo on the cover announcing the special tribute to him.

I suspect future issues will always bear a reflection of Tom Newby and Mark Copeland. Thank you. I shall treasure this issue forever.

Janet Brunner
Assistant Venue Director, Offshore Super Series
Euless, Texas

Ongoing Spirit
We just got our December issue of Powerboat here at Velocity. Nice work. The issue embodies the spirit of Tom Newby as he was to us, the manufacturer sector of this business. Very well done. Let's keep his spirit and what he contributed to the sport ongoing. Best to you all.

Clay Ratcliffe
Velocity Powerboats
Sanford, Fla.

2,019-Mile Road Trip
We went back to Florida again for the Key West World Championships, and man did we have a good time. My son (now 14) and I have made the trek to Key West as a father/son trip the past four years. A lot has changed as I have watched my son grow up and turn into a young man.

But one thing has not changed, and that is how much fun we have there watching the races. This year we took a road trip and drove the 2,019 miles to Key West! That was my son's idea (he'd rather fly next year). We found the same great venue, the same great people, great racing, great food and great times that we have had during previous trips.

We were aboard Fury for Friday's race in Turn 3, and on Sunday we found ourselves hanging over the edge of the wall as boats screamed past us. We both wanted to say thanks to all the racers, the crews and Super Boat International for setting up a great event.

As always, the racers were friendly and no matter how busy they were, they took time to talk and visit with my son and me. We will be back again. Keep it up everyone!

Curt and Brandon Karges
Rosemount, Minn.

Center-Console Roundup
With people talking about $4 a gallon for gas in the near future, I think it's time for you to do another center-console roundup. I know people complained the last time you did one, but it was very informative and they are basically performance boats that are open.

I think you should test boats in the 35- to 40-foot range and nothing but four-strokes. I will probably buy what Powerboat recommends—I put my boat-buying faith in your hands. Thanks.

Steve Johnson
Lee's Summit, Mo.

Wish Grantor
I just want to express my gratitude to your magazine for supporting something I held, and still hold dear to my heart, the children of the Make-A-Wish Foundation. My daughter was one of those special children who so dearly loved her boat ride. I myself have become a "wish grantor" and event coordinator. Thank you for continuing to see that other special children have this experience.

I look forward to the next time I can attend one of the events. Again, I thank you from the bottom of my heart.

Kristin Blake
Meridian, Idaho

GPS Comparison
How about doing a comparison on the latest GPS and radar systems from Raymarine and Garmin? I'm looking to buy one soon and the 8.4-inch series from those manufacturers seem to be the best fit.

A pro and con article would be helpful considering the Raymarine C80 and the Garmin 4208 are quite expensive, but probably the best in their price range. I have a Regal 3260 and any input would be appreciated.

Don Ban
Alsip, Ill.