Push Stick Winner

Here we have the proud winner of the Sin City Woodworkers push stick contest -- Rich Steinhauser    After a spirited discussion on the merits of each push stick entered into the contest his came out on top.  It was great to see the high level of participation in the contest.  It was somewhat difficult to judge because so many of the entries were considered worthy by the members.  Some even decided that Rich's winning entry could do double duty as a drink holder for whoever had to get coffee for everyone in the shop!
  Jamie came up with the idea of choosing the most practical and user friendly over-all and then awarding another prize for the most artistically designed push stick.  This led to another round of discussion.  One was designed to look like a lightning and was made by an electrician (beautiful piece too), Dennis incorporated his carving skills and had the worlds only duck headed push stick!  After much deliberation, Larry Mooney walked away with top honor in the artistic category but; alas, forgot to pick up his hat reward.   If nobody walked off with it, it's a classic, limited edition, Woodworkers Supply logo hat.  Larry won the artistic award for his push stick which was made of Purple Heart and Ash laminated together in a checker board pattern.  The overall shape reminded us of the shoe from The Old Woman who lived .......  He had a feature we could all use on the bottom, he cut up an old mouse pad and glued it on to help keep a grip on the wood -- nice touch.
  As far as official business, it was decided to keep the dues at $20.00 a year and they will be collected at the July meeting so start putting your change back into the beer can for your dues.  Next meeting I've been talked into doing a demonstration and explanation about gilding and how it can be used to add a special touch to your next project.  Just a reminder, if you'd like me to post pictures of your recent or any project you'd like to share with the group send them to me  HERE and I'll get it on the blog.  Send me a brief explanation and description as well.  I've received pictures from Rich Daugherty which I may get up tonight.