[BobD]

Hey Gang,
It's a go!!

I'm willing to coordinate the effort, so for simple bookkeeping, could everyone who's interested e-mail me at duncan@foxchapelpublishing.com? That way I don't have to search the whole way through the threads (and that way I don't miss anyone.

I think the open carving idea would be best. Each of us has a distinct style, so I think we should showcase that.

My publisher Alan thought it would be a great idea to put the cane together and auction it off at our open house next fall (sept. or Oct.)
As far as a charity to donate to, Fox supports a project in Africa -- the Balm of Gilead Orphanage. Fox feeds, clothes and pays for the care of 36 children who are orphans as a result of their partents dying from the AIDS epidemic in Africa. Alan would like to see the proceeds of the cane go to the orphanage, but he's open to other suggestions if the board wants it.

Now, since it's a year away, how many carvings do people want to do? I think we'll go with the 2x2x3 blocks with the 5/8 hold drilled in it. I know I'm in for at least one block, but I could do more if others want to make more than one cane (stick). Just let me know so I can gague the interest.

If I find out anything else, or if anyone has any other questions, let me know.

Bob

[Hi_Ho_Sliver]

I will do one....someone with or two people with small lathes might want to volunteer to make a top and a foot for the stick or cane, whichever you decide to do. I have a fancy turned piece on the top and bottom. Those too are up to the individual, you can do all kinds of things to cap the sticks with. remember tho the bottom will be coming into contact with the floor,ground, or whatever so needs something on the bottom...I suggest one of the conical shaped plumbers sink washers with the recessed hole in the center, they are tough, small enough not to detract from the stick and yet will protect the stick and the floor...all this is just my opinion, others will probably have another idea. I support a number of charities that help in africa, with orphans, with displaced people with missions etc etc....but we have a need here in this country by a fine lady that is a single mom with terrible doctor bills .....I am talking about Marnie Whillock. I know that is a competing magazine...but now is a chance to show what heart WCI has! I feel very strongly that we should help Marnie! In that same vein, I would not be opposed to doing another cane for the support of the orphanage. How do you feel about this? I see the caricature carvers of america are doing an outstanding caricature of a carver and a bench and a small caricature on the bench that will be auctioned off on ebay for Marnies benefit...would love...would LOVE to have that caricature! ha ha, but sure it will for a pretty price! sorry, rambling now! :

[Hi_Ho_Sliver]

Sorry, I missed the part of your message Bob about being a year away? a year? why a year.....8 segments plus a top and bottom and you have a cane? we can whip out that much in a week or two! ???

[UNCLE_RICK]

I'm in! And I'd be up for more than one, if my work measures-up.

Rick

[AlArchie]

Me too, I guess...never done anything like that so don't know what I can do of quality, but......

Al

I'm in, more then 1 is fine for me

[jamesfa]

BobD- you can count me in -i have been interested in joining an exchange program for a while-but because of time commitment which conflicts with my travels have been hesitant.but i solved that problem by carving 5 segments in advance of joining a group. i could send one for this project
or if the need arises and depending on response i could turn a foot- handle -and top.
my only problem is i'll be leaving next wends and will be out of touch until Oct 17th.

[squbrigg]

Count me in for a block (or two if it works out that way), if upon reciept of my contributions that you consider them worthy of use.

Now I just have to figure out what to carve! Nautical or Celtic or something else.

Bob

[Hi_Ho_Sliver]

How about a naughty celtic? :

Squbrigg - How about a monkey fist for a topper. Certainly nautical and kinda almost Celtic.