Club President, John Sheets, called the January meeting of the Mountaineer Woodturners to order. There were nineteen members and two guests, Ricky Clendenin and Johney Lipscomb, present. John welcomed everyone and commented on the club’s newly completed spectator shield. The shield is to be used during turning demonstrations to protect the observers from flying debris. The project was financed by a grant from the AAW and built by the members at Codger Lodge. EJ Ulland will store the shield until needed.

Treasurer John Gregor reported that the club account has a balance of $4733.

John also researched the AAW credit card program, which would make it easier to accept credit cards as payment for items purchased from the club at the Arts & Crafts fair. The AAW program is too costly in terms of yearly fees and transaction fees. John will continue to look into similar credit card programs.

VP Byron Young answered questions regarding the club challenge. Members’ entries are due to be judged at the February club meeting.

Byron observed that no one from West Virginia has won a monthly drawing in the AAW monthly give away. Lady Luck is bound to visit “Almost Heaven” soon.

The Sydney Woodturners in Australia have a web site that Byron recommends for all turners. The site is well done with a vast amount of turning related information. Sydney Turners.

The club officers are nearly finished with the agenda for the 2012 Mountaineer Woodturners meetings.

Tom Schottle reported that the necessary paperwork is completed to apply for an Educational Opportunity Grant from the AAW. The club should be approved for the grant soon.

Ervin Jones brought a collection of the AAW magazines that Charlie Brown has accumulated over the years that he has been a member. The magazines were distributed and eagerly accepted among the MWT members.

Doug Kemp donated a video camera to the club to use as needed. Thanks Doug