<At left, Mike ferries Renate Zoschke
around on his cooler train.
We have just learned of the passing of Mike Cates, which is another blow to Hot Shots, the company that lost their leader, Dave Lutes, late last year. Mike worked for Dave for many years and was a familiar face every year at the National Fiery Foods and Barbecue Show. We do not as yet have details about his passing, but it was unexpected. Mike made a lot of friends at the show and would constantly entertain us with his antics. He will be sorely missed. Our condolences to his wife and family.