I agree with Isadore Cohn. I grew up in the Corning area and since being a youth I have enjoyed both colorless and Carder Steuben items. We display the Carder era items and use the colorless when we entertain. I feel both should be part of the club. Both are of exceptional quality and considered elegant world class glass by many collectors. I recommend we change the name to “The Steuben Glass Club.”

I recommend that we change the way bylaws can be modified. We should require a majority of all members before the bylaws can be changed. Day to day business issues should only require a majority of those attending meetings. I am president of our condominium board and this is what we do.

Long time collector of both, Katy and Gerry Getman, McMurray, PA

THE WRITING IS ON THE WALL

Hi Folks! Fred T. Parks here in Baltimore with food for thought as to this upcoming vote. To me it seems obvious to include the modern Steuben glass. Let’s face it ~ the writing on the wall is screaming that there will probably not be any more incoming collectors for the Carder period. No brainer ~ Including the modern glass and its collectors, dealers, and enthusiasts provides an incredible opportunity to open their eyes to the work of Carder. When I meet someone at a selling venue looking at the colorless glass of Steuben, most do not know that the Carder period existed. If, and only if, we are able to foster the next generation of members and collectors will this club and Carder’s legacy survive. I suspect that the average age of the current club roster would be 65+ ~ Hmm? I am a 46 year old full time dealer of pottery and glass from 1880-1930. The real question is how to correct past mistakes and the biggest mistake in every category of collecting and dealing is an elitist attitude that would scare away even the most interested parties. Adapt or die ~ that’s what it all really boils down to. Face the facts ~ Elitism = Death and Openness = Survival and Prosperity. Bring on ANY and ALL potential members and glass enthusiasts or my career and future is over. Cheers to Carder!

Fred T. Parks

ATTENDING THE SYMPOSIUM?

Looking for an application, a brochure, an invitation to the birthday party? Just click on the blue links below at the bottom of the Gazette.

2013 Carder Steuben Club annual Symposium will be held at The Corning Museum of Glass in Corning, NY from September 19-21, 2013. The festivities will begin with Frederick Carder’s 150th birthday celebration on the evening of September 18, 2013.

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