Demonstration:

Paul Robin will discuss wood spalting and show examples.

Also, as part of Show and Tell, Don Saucier will discuss carving fancy walking sticks from diamond willow and offer some free diamond willow shafts to those willing to try for themselves.

Directions:
From Madisonville: west 5 miles on Hwy 22 to Hwy 1085; north 0.5 mile to Brewster Ave; turn right, 300 yds to Whispering Timbers, turn right; turn right at Pine Avenue (first corner); 124 is first house on left.
From Covington: I-12 west to exit 57; 0.5 mile north to Hwy 1085; 3.8 miles southwest to Brewster Ave; turn left, 300 yds to Whispering Timbers.

The Woodworkers Tent was a busy, almost exhausting venue at this year's Wooden Boat Festival, October 18 & 19. We set a record for donations received (we'll hear a report at the next meeting) and a near record for number of boats built (about 1250). Partly because of the good weather, the crowds were thicker than the last two years, but because we simplified some of the procedures to get kids through the tent in a more efficient way, the wait time in the long lines seldom exceeded 30 minutes. Kudos to the many members, spouses and friends who manned the various work stations, helped with setup and tear-down, and cooperated to keep thing moving. Following are a few candid photos starting with Friday setup, then starting Saturday morning, we see the "choose your pieces" table, moving on to one of the many assembly stations, then to the sails & flag tables, and finally the satisfied customers tried out their creations in the water tank. As usual, it took a sea trial to convince some kids that yes, they did need outrigger pontoons to keep their boats upright!

Ten Guild members and spouses were guests of the Maritime Museum at a reception honoring Boat Show volunteers on November 14.

The Christmas Banquet is almost upon us . Here are the plans:

• Date: Thursday, December 4, 2008
• Location: Tchefuncta Country Club (same as in prior years)
• Time: Cash bar open at 6pm; dinner at 7pm
• Tables will be arranged for seatings of 8 -- members are encouraged to bring wooden centerpieces to add to the decor. Name tags will be available at the reception table.
• Main Course: Ribeye Steak (12oz.) or Trout Meuniere
• As in the past, you are encouraged to bring "wood-themed" gifts to exchange on an anonymous basis.
• Cost -- $10 -$15 per head for members and guests (the Guild will make up the difference, including tax & gratuities). The exact amount will be determined after a discussion at the meeting on November 25.

ELECTION OF OFFICERS