Important news for Canal regulars

[Mike P]

OK, guys, another update. I just got off the phone with Brad. Yes, the theft occurred, but there's mixed news. His loss in plug inventory wasn't so bad. The thief only scored one out of several boxes, he thinks the guy wanted just enough so he could move them quickly and score a fast couple of hundred. He's out about $300 in plug inventory--but, the damage done to the liftgate of the S-10 in the break-in was bad. Besides damage to the lock and the glass, the hinges were busted, and the truck is basically unuseable. Brad just bought a used Wagoneer, so he has transportation. But it was his wish to still use the Blazer as a Canal fishing truck and "showroom" for the lures, to try and minimize wear to the Jeep and because so many guys are used to looking for it. The irony is, the front doors were unlocked, there was no need to break in. Right now he's deciding whether it's worth it to have the lift gate repaired or just junk it and use the Wagoneer for everything.

He did receive word that shortly after the theft, attempts were made to sell the plugs at the East End. One of the guys who knows Brad started asking pointed questions, the guy trying to peddle them split. He was followed but got away before they could get the plate number.

Things could have been worse--there were over 250 plugs in the Blazer at the time, that's almost $2,000 retail value. The fact that his out of pocket loss, if he decides not to repair the damage to the truck, will be a few hundred doesn't reduce the anger I feel one iota. In the meantime, I'll keep an eye on e-bay.