One of the highlights of the meeting were the live demos that were conducted. Here are shots of Ken sharing a table saw safety demo:
What I found most fascinating were his use of customized sleds & jigs to cut out standardized handle scale sets and liners in a safe & efficient manner. Ken is certainly a zen master around the table saw:
Another fun event was the "Iron-in-the-Hat" raffle. This is where Guild members donate various knife making materials to help raise money for the Guild. Tickets are 6 for $5.00. As your number is called you get to approach the table and select a prize. As you can see, Andy generously donated five 12" machete blanks from a new batch that just arrived. Needless to say they went quickly:
Here are a few familiar faces. Jarrett Fleming together with Allen Surls:
Here is Andy & David checking out Jarrett's latest batch of knives. From the look on Andy's face I'd say he was diggin that Trailmaster with the bolstered mammoth scales which I believe was a first for Jarrett:
Here is Andy along with his youngest daughter checking out the wares on Dennis Bradley's table. In case you aren't aware, Dennis makes some awesome drop point & clip point hunters at his shop in Blairslville, GA:
Another highlight of the meeting was the raffle drawing that was done in support of a scholarship program that the Guild supports. Here is a shot of the winner holding a collaboration knife, that was crafted by several fellow Guild members:
Finally, no meeting is complete without a hearty lunch of awesome Georgia BBQ, complete with baked beans & coleslaw. The meal was topped off with some delicious home made banana pudding made by Andy's wife. Here is a shot of Andy's family serving up lunch along with an extra helping of genuine southern hospitality:
I would like to personally thank Andy for extending the invitation to attend this special meeting of the Guild, and for the hospitality that was offed by everyone in attendance. Georgia is blessed with some serious knife making talent, and some kind hearted individuals who deserve to be acknowledged for paying it forward through the efforts of the Guild.
Peter
