July 2025 Meeting Highlights

NEWS

Attendance: 58 members + 3 guests

Roy Wall, Guild President, welcomed everyone to the July 2025 meeting and recognized the visitors, Don Wacker from Centerview and Mike from Lee’s Summit. He then opened the floor for members to announce any tools for sale or other general announcements.

Randy Stone announced a significant update regarding the Woodguild’s CNC splinter group. In honor of Lyman Hanna, one of the founding members of the group, it will continue to meet on the third Tuesday of each month. However, the group has decided to expand its focus to include lasers and 3D printing, reflecting the evolving landscape of woodworking technology. The splinter group has been officially renamed the “Technology in Woodworking” splinter group.

Bob Pressley provided an update on the Guild’s “Tools for Teens” program. He reported that Lee’s Summit High School and Lee’s Summit North High School have both purchased new turning chisels and replacement blades for some of their woodworking machines, thanks to the funds provided by the Guild. This investment will greatly benefit the students in their woodworking education.

Mr. Bainer announced a special offer on veneer woods: members can purchase four pieces for $10 or ten pieces for $20, providing an excellent opportunity for those interested in veneer work.

Phil led the guild in celebrating the July birthdays of members, specifically recognizing Jim Barb Harrold Young. The guild sang “Happy Birthday,” adding a memorable and personal touch to the meeting.

Ted announced an upcoming golf tournament at John Knox Village, organized to raise funds for Parkinson’s disease. He is seeking donations from guild members for prizes to be awarded at the event, encouraging the guild to contribute to this worthy cause.

Dues Reminder: A reminder was issued that a significant number of members have not yet paid their 2025 dues. Dues remain at $20.00 for 2025.

Upcoming Programs

August: Flourish Furniture Bank – Flourish operates a woodworking department where skilled craftsmen and hobbyists repair, refinish, and repurpose donated furniture. This initiative helps keep usable furnishings out of landfills and gives them a renewed purpose.

September: Shop Hacks – This program will focus on practical tips and tricks for improving efficiency and problem-solving in the workshop.

PHIL’S FINDS

Phil shared a useful discovery: a knife cleaner, typically used for kitchen knives, that can be effectively repurposed for cleaning bandsaw blades. He noted that these cleaners are available at an affordable price, costing $5 individually or two for $10.

HOW to in TWO

Phil presented an easy method for building a small plant stand. The instructional video for this project can be viewed via the provided link HERE.

PROGRAM

The main program featured Brian Brookshire, a forester representing the Missouri State Forestry and the Missouri Forest Products Association (MFPA). Brian, who began his career with the Missouri Department of Conservation, provided a comprehensive overview of the wood industry in Missouri.

He highlighted the MFPA’s crucial role in promoting Missouri’s wood industry and advocating for its interests with state leaders in Jefferson City. The association works to ensure that policymakers understand the significant economic impact of forest products within the state.

A key point of concern Brian addressed was the significant 60% decline in hardwood production over the past decade. He attributed this decline primarily to the increased importing of alternative products made from plastics or other man-made materials, which are displacing traditional hardwood markets.

Despite these challenges, Missouri still has approximately 400 sawmills across the state. Brian noted that the hardwood flooring market, in particular, is experiencing a substantial downturn due to the influx of manufactured products from overseas.

On a positive note, Brian emphasized that Missouri remains the nation’s number one producer of railroad ties and pallets, demonstrating continued strength in these specific sectors of the wood industry.

SHOW & TELL

Members had the opportunity to display and discuss their latest woodworking projects, sharing their craftsmanship and inspiring fellow guild members. Thier work can be viewed HERE.