In last issue’s eZine, Rob wished our U.S. readers a happy Fourth of July (Independence Day in the U.S.). Several American readers also wanted to express their patriotism. – Editor
“I just read the passage about the 4th of July. I also have been born in the best country in the world, the U.S.A., and do indeed feel blessed. I have served our fine country in the U.S. Army for 28 years, 7 months and 27 days. You have a very good magazine, and every issue I find things that I can use in my projects.” – Patrick Costley
“Just wanted to say thank you for your wishes for a safe 4th and that I wholeheartedly agree with your sentiments of thankfulness and pride of having been born here. I, too, served my country in the Navy and as a “not so civil” civil DoD servant for over 30 years. I’m proud to say I did my best for God and country. I must take issue in your “apology” to those non-USA folks (although as a Michigander, I understand that it’s a Minnesotan thing – I have blood relatives from Minnesota). But, how many other countries have people willing to risk life and limb to enter illegally? Best wishes to you and yours for a safe and sane 4th and many more!” – Ron Trafelet
“My friend Rob. Please, do not apologize to anyone for blessing the nation that you are so very proud of a Happy Birthday. I for one am proud to be an American and I am also proud to believe in the Lord Jesus Christ who reigns in Heaven. I will stand on the tallest of mountains and give our great land and all of our who fought and died to allow you and I that freedom a big hollering thank you! No sir, my friend; do not apologize for you owe no one anything. I do, on the other hand, owe you a debt of thanks for being one of those who served in our great country’s armed services and fought proudly I am sure. Your friend for a lifetime.” – Dennis W Young
We also heard from one of our readers from a different country. – Editor
“I approve of your thoughts and we Aussies feel much the same, but we are more reticent about expressing it.” – Laurie Power
Plus, Rob’s naval service, combined with the commentary on a humorous shop sign in last issue’s Feedback, prompted this reader to recall seeing the same sign early in his own Navy career. – Editor
“I think this is the first time that I have noticed you mentioning your service in the Navy. I, too, was in the Navy, starting in 1954 and retiring, finally, in 1981 as a CPO. The reason for mentioning this is that as I read the ACHTUNG! bit in humorous woodworking, it brought to mind that I had seen this before. To be more accurate, I saw this very early in my Navy career and, being the person I am, I dug it up from my personal archives (a folder full of bits of wisdom and lore). The one you presented here is close to the one I have on file with some minor changes. Just thought I would pass this on as it is not something new but has been around for many years. It stuck with me as I am of Germanic descent; 3rd generation being born in this country. I guess it is this German gene that makes me the picky woodworker, as well as with other things, that I am, but I am proud of my finished products and will continue in this manner until I can no longer turn on the machines. Keep the good articles and woodworking coming. As you like to say, ‘Make more sawdust.'” – Bob Hoyle
A More Flexible Dancing Bear
This reader offered his suggestion for a slight modification of one of our plans and also shared what he and his woodworking colleagues call themselves. – Editor
“I made the Dancing Bear toy with one minor change which gives it more flexibility. I added a small round spacer between the hands of the bear, which is drilled the same as the hands. I have found that this makes the arms not bind with the body. I cut mine with an Epilog Laser.
“Also, on the question of a name for our woodworking group, we are the Tristate Woodcrafters, as we are a group of men and women who are into all modes of woodworking.
“I really enjoy the eZine and look at it as soon as it appears on my computer.” – Bill Covington
Videos Helpful for Learning Turning
This reader has found our videos helpful in learning about turning. – Editor
“Thank you for the turning videos. As an amateur turner, these videos are priceless. I took a course a few years ago and some of the information is a reminder, but most is just great advice. As a long-time subscriber, you’ll have me continuing on. Thanks.” – Barney Heller
