2008 Wood Congress

[xsailer]

Just got back from an extended holiday following the Wood Congress class and meeting. The day we drove thru Des Moines and Iowa City on the way to the Congress in Davenport was the 1st full day they had the interstate opened all day. Iowa Jim and others suggested we may be slowed down by high water activity. I was surprised. We had no problems and saw very little flooding along the road. We all know thou that severe flooding was happening.
The classes and show was as usual worth the trip. My figures may be off slightly but about 222 carvers took classes from I think 21 instructors. The instructors were well known by all and I heard not one complaint. I took a class from Mike Shipley, Randy Landen and tool man Denny. The days were long and the carving good. I camped out with several Board members and helped all really work hard setting up and tearing down the Congress. My My what job. It would be hard to explain what all happens.
Mr. BobD, our WCI Message Bd. leader, was in attendance along with his magazine competitor. They were really nice to us carvers at the meeting.
Lots of fun, fellowship and work. If you've not been it's a nice time to experience. I was lucky enough to get a few ribbons amoung some really good competition. The only thing I really missed being away from home was keeping up the WCI message board.

[xsailer]

Thought I might add the Best Show, 2nd Best Show, 3rd Best Show winners by our own Mr. Fred Zavadil. His work is remarkable as most of you know. Hope I'm not stealing anybodys thunder by showing these pictures. Mr. Zavadil's artistry deserves showing.

Congratulations and it was nice to meet you Fred.

Warrior with Bow = about 36' tall
Bird Mad = about 24" tall
Celloist = about 12" to 18" tall

Note, names of carvings are mine for description only.

[Kenny_S]

Glad you made the trip ok Bob. Sounds like you had a great time. Never grow tired of view Fred's work.

[xsailer]

Kenny, the class that Denny offered was nothing like the class you and I attended. It was a two hour with several of his sharpening sanders and him demo'ing and explaining/answering questions. It was a good informative class from one that sharpens thousands of tools a year.

[Kenny_S]

I am surprised that he gave a class with his health problems but glad you made it to it. Denny is a neat and nice guy. I enjoyed carving with him.
Yep, he does a great job on his tools for sure.