by Vanessa (President and Workshop)
New blades have been recently added to the 10″ and 6″ trim saws as the past blades were both a year old or more. Thanks go to Mel for the contribution of the 10″ blade. The slab saw blade still has its original blade in use and is not expected to need replacement in the very near future, as cutting with oil greatly reduces the blade wear. The Genies are all in active use with most sporting new or reconditioned spitters – these have noticeably improved the water amounts to the wheels. Brian will be looking into getting some grit for the vibrating flat lap (donated by new club member, Doug Smith) and Alana has offered to check out wheel replacements for the small 6″ flat lap. The longer course session format, newly implemented on Sundays, has shown to have some instruction advantages for the Basic Lapidary course, held recently. We are hopeful that future courses will follow the same format so as to not interfere with Saturday workshop activities for members.