Lorraine Wilson
Excitement filled the woodshop throughout December as members came together to make meaningful improvements and celebrate another successful year. The month opened with hands-on progress on Dec. 8 when Frank Hunter and Dave Popejoy assembled and set up the new Powermatic belt/disc sander, replacing a worn-out tool to the shop. Just days later, Kathy Dial and Greg Kohn installed and organized the new CNC cabinet, bringing a major boost to efficiency. With clearly labeled pull-out trays, all CNC tools are now easy to find and ready for use. Teamwork remained the driving force behind these upgrades, as members continued to work side by side to strengthen and improve the shop.
That same spirit of community carried into the Woodworkers’ annual Holiday Party on Dec. 10, a festive evening that blended celebration, reflection, and fun. Members were welcomed by a lively movie of photos from the past couple of years, created by Mary Ornberg and set to music provided by Kathy Dial. The presentation set a warm and cheerful tone as members gathered around beautifully decorated tables, each adorned with handcrafted pens made by Loren Christensen.
Following a delicious dinner, Club President Kathy Dial began a thoughtful and engaging review of 2025. The annual Founders Awards were presented to Jack Ackerman, who was unable to attend, and Mike Riewe, recognizing their longstanding dedication and continuous contributions to the club. The prestigious Woodworker of the Year Award was presented to Greg Kohn in recognition of his many contributions to the woodshop and his significant improvements throughout the CATC building. A special plaque was also presented to “Pen Master” Loren Christensen, with gratitude from the many members he has taught pen making.
Recognition continued as beautifully designed coffee mugs, created by Kathy Dial, were presented to 39 woodworkers whose efforts were essential to the shop’s success. These included members who monitored the shop more than 10 times during the year, served as instructors for machine and safety training, led project classes and participated in maintenance and blow-down days throughout the year.
Newly elected 2026 President Dave Popejoy then took the microphone to thank the outgoing board of directors, Steve Russell, Susan Wells, and Teresa McGill, with special recognition for Kathy Dial’s leadership and dedication during her tenure. On behalf of the members, Dave presented Kathy with a bouquet of flowers and a heartfelt gift in appreciation for her service.
The evening concluded with plenty of laughter and excitement during the raffle drawings. With 36 prizes ranging from a dog basket to an exotic wood basket and 40 tickets in every attendee’s hands, nearly everyone had a chance to win. The final drawings awarded the poinsettia centerpieces to 12 lucky winners, bringing the night to a joyful close.
The Holiday Party was a fitting celebration of a year defined by teamwork, generosity, and shared passion—a wonderful evening of good food, great company, and well-earned recognition for a thriving woodshop community.