May 2022

May, A Time For Change

This has been a crazy season. We had an election in 2020 when we elected Marcy Chirdon as president, but before she got started the world came crashing down with Covid. Then her husband was offered early retirement (because of that crash), so they took it and moved to New York to be close to the new grandchildren. So I was elected president, and took over the responsibilities in September of 2020.
It has not been easy navigating these past 20 months with mask mandates and showcase uncertainties, but we made it. This has been an incredible journey, and I have been honored to be your president during this time. I believe, after sitting in on the showcase wrap-up meeting last month, the club is in a strong position to move forward.
At this time we are in the middle of the beginner carving classes. We have eleven (11) students learning stop cuts, shaping wood, and knife care. We hope that these eleven will continue with this new hobby and enjoy it as much as the seasoned members do, and we look forward to seeing you frequently at our Tuesday meetings.
Bill Robinson, the new Vice-President, is the program director for the coming term, as well as being in charge of the new carvers lessons. If you have suggestions or requests, he would be glad to hear them.
Speaking of programs, our annual Wild Acres Retreat will be August 22-28. Peter Ortel will teach the first 3 days and Mitch Cartledge will take the second half. Rod Gatlin is the coordinator for the week, so contact him for information.
The next From the President article will be from Bob Gerbe. I am convinced he will give great new leadership for the 22-23 year. He has some very positive ideas for the club, especially in organization behind the scenes. I know you will give him as much encouragement and support as you have given me. I will take a step down to the Editor’s job and continue as the webmaster (enough work for me).

“It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness, …”
Charles Dickens, A Tale of Two Cities