[Anthony Filetti]

I've had some down time recently and was reflecting on my journey as a carver, and man has it been a wonderful start. In thinking about this I was reflecting on the friendships I've built and the wonderful times I've had with folks who's generousity could not be exceeded by a saint. In reflecting on this one friendship keeps coming to mind and how this carver really deserves a little more credit. So, given that its about time I did something about it. So up on the soapbox I go...

One of our moderators is one of, if not the best at miniatures (as well as full size) I have ever seen. He has the ribbons to prove it and if you have ever seen his work in person you will know that he does not get half the credit he deserves. Many of us are fortunate to own some of his work, and better yet call him friend. We also benefit from his instruction and I know that when he talks I listen. I have never competed against him, but I have lost to his students many a time and until I improve I won't. It should be said that most of the time he does not get the credit as he is the one behind the scenes doing a lot of work to ensure the rest of us are having a good time and that everything is just so (as he does on this message board). he does this, all with the humility of Red Skelton and the humor Billy Crystal (what a great combination!)

So if you ever get to see Mitchell Cartledges work or better yet, the opportunity to buy one of his pieces you should do so. Its about time he gets the credit for the carving skill and the contributions he makes!!! I salute you my friend and say "well done"!

...and thats my two cents...(off the soap box)

[BobD]

<grabbing Tony's soapbox out of his hands and hopping on top of it>

I couldn't agree more. Watch for an article with Mitch in an upcoming issue...

Mitch was a great person to work with on the article...and I KNOW you are all going to love it. You'll be seeing a preview of the article in the Summer Issue (which I'm finishing up now).

Bob

[Lynn O. Doughty]

Is he a member of this forum? I Googled him but nothing came up. Would like to see some of his work!

[BobD]

His username is Mitchell
Woodcarving Illustrated Message Board - View Profile: Mitchell

Bob

[Lynn O. Doughty]

Thanks Bob.....Now that I know who we're talking about I couldn't agree more!!!

[wood-whittler]

i couldnt agree more mitch is a good freind to alot, and a great spokesman for woodcarving, mitch and i have been freinds for along time and i have learned alot from him.thanks mitch for all that you do.


bart

[gene messer]

Well said Tony .. Havent ever met Mitch .. but his carvings are wonderful ..

Thanks for sharing ..

Gene

[Mark N. Akers]

I couldn't agree with ya'll more,I have several of Mitch's carvings in my collection,can't wait to see the article.

[Kenny_S]

Very nice tribute to a deserving person. Never met Mitch but enjoy his posts and carvings.

[Mitchell]

Man, I leave the country for a week, and come back with the "rumor mill" in full swing!

Thanks for the compliments. I got back from a business trip to Mexico and went straight to a carving club meeting tonight....didn't even stop by the house. Anyway, a new member of the club said that the group has made him feel more welcome than any other gathering that he has been too - even churches! To tie that in to Tony's introduction, I have to tell y'all what I told him in response - that carving has brought me my best friends.... Ribbons, recognition, or even the ability to carve is not as rewarding as the relationships that the art has brought. I only wish that had more time to spend carving with my friends.

I believe that I may have hired a publicist........ Tony, the check is in the mail