That's right, carvers of the world, the Pig is coming! And what in the world does that have to do with woodcarving, you ask?
Well, lots, if the pig in question is the "guest of honor"
at The Great Pig Out 2001, scheduled for September
17-22, 2001. Hosted by Joe Dillett of The Carving Shop
in Somonauk, IL, GPO2001 promises to be even bigger and
better than the original GPO.
GPO the First came about when Joe Dillett decided to combine two of his favorite things - carving wood and roasting pigs - in a benefit for the Boy Scout troop in Somonauk. That Friday/Saturday event in September 1999 was successful beyond any dream, raising in excess of $5,000 for the local Scouts.
After a year or so of resistance, Joe finally succumbed to the begging, pleading and tears of the happy lot of carvers that attended GPO the First and decided to start planning GPO 2001. This time around, the proceeds of GPO 2001 will benefit Make-A-Wish Foundation.
Your Genial Host, Joe D.
Photo by R. Gallandt
As much fun as was GPO1, GPO2001 stands to be a significantly greater event. Joe has teamed up with fellow carver "Basswood" Bob Mau of Big Rock, IL, who is coordinating a full slate of mini-seminars, demonstrations and just plain fun. Most of the activities are free, or may have just a small fee to cover materials.
Bob Morris of The Wooden Horse Studio pitched in to host the official GPO2001 web page at www.woodenhorsestudio.com/gpo2001.htm.
GPO 2001 culminates on Saturday, September 22 with more demonstrations, entertainment, contests, an auction to benefit Make-A-Wish Foundation, and most importantly, the Pig Roast.
Woodcarver Online Magazine will be represented in the demonstration area by Editor Matt Kelley. Matt is also supporting the benefit for Make-A-Wish by coordinating the assembly of several Friendship Canes, which will be auctioned Saturday afternoon. (For more information about the Friendship Cane, including how to participate, see the related article in this issue.)
GPO 2001 is open to all carvers and anyone else that wanders onto the site, There are motels and camping in the area, although rooms are going quickly. GPO2001 looks to be a great carving event and lots of fun, so plan on attending. For more information, including a list of seminars and demonstrations, and lots more information, visit the GPO2001 home page.
