August 2014 – Message from the Guildmaster

August of 2014 has been truly one to remember here in New Jersey. We have had less heat and humidity than anyone can recall. The favorable, non-humid weather was granted at Dixon’s Gunmakers Fair and the Summer Reception too. Relief was seen on all of the happy faces for sure.

Speaking of Dixon’s, we had 73 paid attendees at the reception. That should be a break even financial event and the Guild sold a little over $1700 between raffle tickets, Hartley books and hats. We signed up nine new members and seven renewals. The volunteers at the two HCH tables worked very diligently, I can attest to that because I was demonstrating with the spring pole lathe right in front of them. I did not record all that helped but Don Fererro, Kris Polizzi, Jerry Polizzi and Cameron Lane stand out. Thanks to them all and the others.

August has been very busy for Regina and I. August 14-15 I demonstrated the lathe in the main show room of the Contemporary Longrifle Association’s Annual Show/Meeting in Lexington, Kentucky. My wife Regina accompanied me and provided with photo documenting the two Lanthorn presentations. All should know by now that the Guild tries to honor contemporary horn experts that worked before the Guild was established for their contribution of knowledge that is the foundation upon which the Guild stands today. Roland Cadle and Art DeCamp came up with this idea and make the awards of half a Lanthorn on a plaque. A most attractive and meaningful trophy. Dr. Jay Hopkins and Tom Grinslake were the recipients. I stood as a sprout handing the awards to and from giants in the kingdom of horn.

August 30, Regina and I attended the 31st annual Howell Farm plowing match in adjoining Mercer County (named for General Hugh Mercer bayoneted to death January 3, 1777 at the Battle of Princeton). Nine – two and three horse teams and two oxen teams competed at the 19th Century working farm that yearly plows 45 acres for the planting of winter wheat. The “Milking Shorthorn Oxen” Jim and Bob are shown here in the picture. I am sure confused about their handle.

Best regards,
Dick Toone, Guildmaster