[TheForge] Re: Saving ABANA

[Hufford, David]

May I add a comment regarding Dave Koenig and the forthcoming ABANA conference in Kentucky:  I've attended several ABANA conferences, as well as regional and state conferences.  However, it wasn't until the pending conference in Kentucky that I've had the opportunity to witness first-hand the process of conference planning ... which is a horrendous undertaking.  I continue to be astounded at the multitude of details which must be addressed to conduct such a conference.  Dave Koenig has done an outstanding job as conference chairperson.  If this isn't one of the best conferences ever, it won't be due to any shortcoming of Dave's or his colleagues.  He has been tireless in his pursuit to organize a top-flight event.  He, Paul Moffitt, and other volunteers deserve the highest regard and gratitude for their service to the ABANA membership.
David Hufford


-----Original Message-----
From: Reynolds [mailto:rmcushmanxiii at excite.com]
Sent: Thursday, May 20, 2004 10:34 AM
To: theforge at mailman.qth.net
Subject: [TheForge] Re: Saving ABANA




Bill:

Thanks for your comments regarding what ABANA needs. I can't verify or dissent as to what would be best for ABANA -- voting off Steigler, Yellin and Kagele or not.

But I would like to comment on board member Dave Koenig. I have know Dave for 8 years and watched him in action on a monthly basis as he formed the HABA chapter and led it to being an outstanding new chapter/affiliate. Dave is a licensed engineer and thinks like one. All stones get turned over when he plans something. I've been to a dozen or more events he has planned and they have been great. He's a planner, meticulously so, and I will be willing to wager this year's conference in KY will have no major clitches. He crosses all the "T"s and dots all the "I"s. He has spent over a year putting this conference together, and because I know him, I can safely say it just may prove to be one of the best ever, all things considered.

Dave is a great smith. He's a great demonstrator, has an flair for design, understands the diversity of skills and interest within ABANA, and he is selfless in his devotion to preserving and growing the art and the craft. 

He is a polite gentleman and prone to allow anyone to speak their mind in a gathering, including ABANA board meetings. He also has the wisdom to know when to keep his mouth shut. Dave is too busy working for ABANA's membership to engage in verbal volleys and counter volleys, so don't look for him to start playing politician. Actions speak louder than words, and Dave is all about action.

Go to old Kantuck expecting a great conference.

Reynolds





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