[ Wing Tips Home | Contents | Search | Post | Reply | Next | Previous | Up ]
From: diana
Date: 2/16/2004
Time: 7:05:44 PM
Well, at least everyone who wanted to was able to get to Des Moines this year without being impeded by weather conditions! I believe total registration was at the 300+ mark. The room sales were abundant in numbers. The general session Saturday morning featured G.W. Steffens, the author of the new book "From Iowa Clay: The Stoneware of Fort Dodge". His presentation was articulate and punctuated by numerous slides of Fort Dodge and other IA stoneware. Educational sessions once again very well attended - presentations covered stoneware, art pottery, and dinnerware. I was personally a little disappointed with the show offerings - found numerous items damaged in some way or another, yet there was still something for everyone. The auction moved along quickly with offerings in all categories including a few commemoratives. Highlights included a mint sponge umbrella stand which sold at auction for $1800 and a nice 6 gallon unmarked salt glaze leaf churn w/lid sold for $1600. All in all, a most enjoyable experience and a great opportunity to relax and catch up with RW friends. Would encourage all to attend next year - it's a great respite from the long winter.