Members of the GRMAS and MMMC took a two day trip this past weekend to Rhinelander, Wisconsin for a tour of the marine portion of Drs. Foster and Smith facility. This tour is offered to a limited number of people two times a year, so we were very fortunate to be able to be added to the list. Members of both clubs had an exciting weekend at a greatly reduced cost for the trip.
Rhinelander Wisconsin has a town mascot called a "Hodag" as in hoe.. This is a mythical creature who comes out of the deep woods that was invented by the town founders and lumberjacks to draw visitors to the town. When Guinness Book of World records came to investigate the monster, the whole business was exposed as a giant hoax. At any rate, they have the little buggers all over the town.
After a very long drive there, before the festivities in front of Hodag downtown:
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Friday evening was fairly subdued:
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Scott just had to ride one!
Here's a shot of the front of the beast with Brian:
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The next morning we arrived for our tour, which was beautifully conducted.
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Full staff who were very attentive. Everything was just immaculate and the animals outstanding. The aquarium displays were beautiful and established. My pictures really don't do them justice.
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Main filtration room:
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After the tour you could roam about the facility with plenty of staff to help. Bit crowded, but manageable. They would package up your fish and corals, prepare them as if for shipping on the trip home. From what I have heard, everyone's purchases made the 9 hour drive home without incident. Members received a 10% discount on their purchases as well.
A stunning acro I just had to have:
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The good Doctors also had a very nice raffle. We had several members who won prizes:
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We had a wonderful tour and a great weekend. Many thanks to Drs. Foster and Smith for their hospitality on behalf of the GRMAS and MMMC. We hope to see you all again soon! Special thanks are also due to Kevin Kohen of Live Aquaria for his private tour prior to the one offered to the public.