[TheForge] Re: TheForge Digest, Vol 45, Issue 47

[DoveKnives]

I also have to speak up.  I just recently renewed my my ABANA membership.  I 
had allowed it to laps for a few years, and really missed the magazines.  I 
found that I used the suppliers that advertise more than I thought, I missed 
the articles and photos of other folks work as well.  Yes at times the 
articles may seem a little artsier, but this has pushed me higher in my 
skill as I try to match some of the things they show.  All in all I 
appreciate the work that the board buts in.  Judging by some of the 
responses posted here over the years, it seems that taking a board position 
is a great way to be flamed by a number of folks that like to bitch and not 
to really do anything to improve the organization.  I like the magazines, I 
have used projects out of the "Hammers Blow" many times, and often use the 
magazines as a teaching aids for my students.  I know some say that we need 
more articles for beginners, and others say we need more offerings for 
experienced smiths.  It seems to me as a smith of thirty years, that the two 
magazines do a pretty good job at making that goal.  Yes, the organization 
can improve, if you would like to see more of a particular type of article, 
than write and submit it.  I know that there have been times the board has 
requested articles for both mags.  Lets put both our money and our actions 
to work as a group to improve a good organization and make it even better.

Steve Rollert