Happenstance. Seven years ago I was struggling to learn to carve. The dark green rounded stone I found in my back yard had turned out to be devilishly hard, with the chisels changing more than the stone on each hammer blow. I had not formally thrown in the towel, but I was taking a major break to think about how difficult this stone carving was going to be.

During this break I happened upon a sculpture by Master Uchida at the UW Center for Urban Horticulture. I was instantly fascinated by the sculpture, which for that day held my attention better than the blonde at my side. Upon returning home I purchased a Sculpture magazine, which I knew contained many advertisements for tools and stone, and I started calling for catalogues and advice. I found a class offered by Suz Gentiluomo at Pratt, and Suz turned me on to Camp Brotherhood. That single sculpture changed my life. I hope that one of my sculptures can someday change a life in the same way.

While I work to bring my sculpture to that point, I know that I can make a difference through my work on the Board. We have great volunteers and an organizational structure that gets more robust each year. Many of you have stepped forward to play roles in all parts of our organization, which is allowing us to do more, and that better, with a lighter burden on each individual volunteer. Thanks to all of you.

We just installed a new board of directors and elected them to positions within the board. It looks like I’ll be writing these letters for another year and Dave Haslett will remain as Vice President. Karl Hufbauer will step into the role of Treasurer. Sharon Feeney has kept the position of Secretary aof the Board, with June Bloye remaining the e-mail czarina. And welcome to Elaine MacKay, who has joined the board. I am looking forward to seeing all of you at our various events this year.

 

Carve well, have fun, and wear a good respirator and protect your eyes,