Presidents Message,

I wish each and every ABS member a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

On behalf of the ABS Officers and Board of Directors, I would like to recognize all of the work done in 2012 by many in the Society to advance the mission of the American Bladesmith Society and appreciate all of the contributions made by our members. These contributions are too numerous for me to list. The ABS could not survive except for these dedicated organizations and people.

The 2013 American Bladesmith Society's all forged blade EXPO is the premier show for hand forged blades. From utility blades, to the finest forged and crafted art knives, the ABS EXPO has something for everyone. The show is held on January 25-26 in San Antonio, Texas, at the Sheraton Gunter San Antonio, www.gunterhotel.com

See some of the world's finest forged knives showcased in a unique and informative format for the enjoyment of the forged blade collector/enthusiast by American Bladesmith Society Master Smiths and Journeyman Smiths.

If you make knives, you should have a table. If you like knives you should attend. This is the ABS Forged Blade Show in the West. ABS Master and Journeyman stamp knives will be judged. Awards will be given for the best Master and Journeyman knives. Attend the seminars, exhibits, auction and the Awards banquet. The new Journeyman and Master smiths will be honored with their certificates. The knife show awards including the new Red St Cyr award for the Best of Show will presented. See you in San Antonio. If you haven't been to San Antonio lately, you should come. The food, atmosphere and people are great along with the attractions.

The Expo show Committee has sent out 2,000 invitations to people in the surrounding area with an income that exceeds $250,000. They have also taken out ads in small newspapers for towns around San Antonio. This is an addition the normal advertising done in the past. If you haven't got a table please contact Harvey Dean or Cindy Sheely.

I am again asking table holders to make knives especially for this show. They may take pictures of these knives and submit to the ABS Forum for Dan Cassidy to put on the ABS Forum Photo Gallery so the prospective buyers may have a sneak preview to what they will see at San Antonio.

Feel free to attend one of the the three ABS Schools and one or more of the eight Bladesmithing Symposiums and Youth Hammer-In offered by the ABS. The best knives made are featured in the American Bladesmith magazine, and there is an award winning ABS Website that lists every Master and Journeyman Smith, events, forums and a multitude of knife making techniques.

If your membership expired in 2012, you will have received a renewal notice. Please remember to renew your ABS membership for 2013!

I appreciate your support.

Be kind to yourself and God Bless,

James Batson