Message from the President
As we mark one year since my appointment as President, I am pleased to reflect on our progress and renewed momentum. Despite significant challenges, our board and members have demonstrated resilience and commitment. Thank you to the other nine board members for the dedication you have given this past year.
Board and Leadership Updates
We have established a new board of directors all dedicated to restoring the Association to its former glory. During Covid many organizations failed, and we were also falling victim the pandemic. I would like to extend my gratitude to Murray Lincoln for guiding OWCA through this period.
Club Support and Compliance
Our insurance director Lynn Burnett worked very hard to ensure that our insurance program continues to support carving clubs and individuals across Ontario. Lynn also works on several other projects such as ONCA. She is spear heading the committee making sure that we meet all the government’s requirements. Also participating in the committee is Karen Walker and Alec Pritchard. Since OWCA’s formation back in 1978 there have been a few changes. These updates will be addressed at the next annual meeting. The Annual meeting will take place sometime in April or May. The exact date will be announced early in the new year.
Membership Growth
Membership has more than doubled in the past year, with many former members returning. During Covid, several clubs in Ontario closed, loosing contact with the clubs and its members. I’m please to announce that we now have 40 clubs now registered with us and we anticipate further growth.
Website Improvements
Efforts to revitalize our website are ongoing. Karen Walker first joined in October 2024 to help with the website. Karen has done a lot of work on the website and now has the support of Lynn and First Floor Media. The updated website will offer improved navigation, current images and enhanced interactivity for members. Karen Walker also serves as Treasurer. We appreciate her dedication.
Upcoming events
- Royal Botanical Gardens Exhibition
January 31st – April 4th. This event will showcase world-class carvers and expected to attract 80,00 visitors. OWCA has been invited to participate, providing and excellent opportunity to highlight our work.
- National Wildfowl Championship
OWCA will oversee the wood art segment this year. Further details will be announced soon.
Looking Ahead
We are engaged in several other initiatives and look forward to sharing the updates as these project progress. Your membership to OWCA will help us achieve our goals to help woodcarvers and wood carving clubs throughout Ontario.
