The President's Corner - March 2011
Wednesday, March 16, 2011 at 10:34PM 
February’s program was “Your favorite Tips and Jigs” presented by our members gave me some concern that we wouldn’t have enough participation to fill the time. Boy, was I wrong! As the tables filled up, I became worried that we wouldn’t finish on time. I wish I had counted the participants and/or jigs. There were a lot, and very few duplicates, if any. Jigs ranged from pretty simple to mighty complex. I am going to be sure to borrow the DVD from the club library and make notes on several. A hardy thank you to those who brought something to share, your participation made for a great meeting. I particularly want to thank Bruce Wrenn, as you might suspect, he brought a fair number of items and cut his presentation short so that we only ran about 15 minutes overtime. Paul Rolfe, the Klingspor store manager, announced that he is the author of a new book on carving “Bellamy Eagles.” Here is the description from Amazon.com: “John Haley Bellamy (1836-1914) was a folk art woodcarver from New England, best known for his eagles. These symbols of America in his unique style make them ideal projects for carvers of all skill levels. Learn about Bellamy himself, and see 293 color photos with step-by-step instructions. This informative guide discusses the tools, with instructions to carve three differently styled eagles (“Portsmouth,” pilothouse, and soaring). Instructions include gold leaf application as a finishing detail. Patterns are provided. This book will be a treasure for all who enjoy carving in this distinct style.”
Paul also announced that he has negotiated an arrangement with Horizon Forest Products whereby he will have sheet goods available at the Woodworking Shop. This should be a real benefit, particularly if you are looking for something special. Horizon has a big selection, but doesn’t sell less than 5 sheets. Paul also got some figured maple, which Horizon considered undesirable because it wasn’t plain enough to use for flooring. Keep an eye on Paul’s stock for it to appear.
The 2011 schedule of meetings and workshops is up on the TWA website calendar and I think it is great. Terry and his committee have outdone themselves this year. Everyone should take a close look at the workshop offerings. I am sure there issomething there to interest each member and hope everyone will plan to attend at least one workshop. We have everything from design to finishing. Remember, part of the cost of workshops is covered by club dues, so, if you don’t participate, you aren’t getting all you can from your dues. We have made the workshops very affordable when compared to the same course elsewhere. Google a presenter’s name and see what they charge at a woodworking school for a similar class, then add travel and lodging. What we charge usually won’t even cover the gas for travel to a class.
This month I recognized Terry Tenhouse for his efforts on behalf of the club. He is a Board member and chairs the Program Committee (and therefore gets credit running a super team effort). He also volunteers his house for several T4T workshops and attends others every year. He is most definately one of the folks I look to for advice and when I need someone to help with a club effort. Terry holds a wealth of knowledge and does not mind sharing when asked. Terry, it is a pleasure to know you and work with you!
As you know we recently bought the web address trianglewoodworkers.com. With this new web address, we are considering redesigning/updating our site. Unfortunately, I haven’t a clue how to do it or what can reasonably be done. If anyone has expertise (even a little is more than I have) in website creation/ design and is willing to help, please call or e-mail me.
For those of you who enjoy woodworking shows, they will be in Chantilly, VA outside Washington, DC on March 10, 11 &12, and in Charlotte on March 25, 26 &27. Also for you old tool collectors, PATINA (The Potomac Antique Tools and Industries Association, Inc.) will hold its annual tailgating and auction on March 19 in Damascus, MD.
Next month’s presentation is “Saw blades 101”, by Tom Ferrone which will teach us the why’s and how’s of the wide range of saw blades available for woodworkers
President: Allan Campbell