Title

Heart of Glass - Blenko Glass

Blenko Glass is a West Virginia treasure that spans generations. Nothing symbolizes the state of West Virginia better or more beautifully than Blenko Glass. We will discuss current and former craftsmen and designers and how important it is that Blenko and West Virginia glass be appreciated and valued by the younger generation.

Thursday, August 30, 2007

TO BE or NOT TO BE . . . .BLENKO!

Do you have a 2007 WV Birthday Piece you want to sell? I have the email addresses of 3 individuals looking for 2007 WVBP. (email theblenkoproject@aol.com with your address and asking price). If you have an unusual BLENKO ITEM and I'll determine what is or isn't unusual...for sale, send a photo with the asking price and I'll post it.
THE LABOR SALE AT BLENKO VISITORS CENTER (304 743 9081) starts tomorrow....up to 75% off many items. Make stopping at Blenko Glass a part of your Labor Day plans. HJH

Wednesday, August 29, 2007

New Construction at BLENKO GLASS

Heavy Duty Equipment in the Blenko Parking Lot - What does it mean?
That was the question.

The answer. If you shop the BLENKO GLASS VISITORS CENTER you may remember in times of rain or snow, there is often a little (some times not so little) puddle of water near the
flower beds or door..... well, the Heavy Duty Equipment - - - and the dozen or so men with the equipment plan to correct that problem.
I will be in Charleston for the Labor Day Holiday, and plan to drive down, take photographs and get additional information. So check back and we'll have the complete story of the repair.
This repair will not STOP THE BLENKO GLASS LABOR DAY VISITORS CENTER SALE!
Plan to Visit the Blenko Glass Visitors Shop during Labor Day - - - the Parking Lot has few extra ' things - whatever that equipment is called' but more than enough space for you to park while you shop for bargains!
Up to %70 percent off on many one of a kind items during the LABOR DAY WEEKEND SALE!
Blenko Glass, Glass made in West Virginia, by West Virginians. Phone 304 743 9081.
note: Glass Blowers are NOT working on weekends - so you will not be able to see the glass being made on a weekend visit.

Tuesday, August 28, 2007

Looking For Interesting Glass Sites?

Check out ChanceGlass.net - I found this by 'accident' and spent several hours just drifting. . . .its a unique site full of glass info.
I ask David the owner of this site for a brief description:
www.ChanceGlass.net
ChanceGlass.net explores the range of domestic glassware produced by Chance until the company was sold off in 1981. Chance Brothers was formed in 1824 and produced all manner of glass, but is best known for the pioneering work in lighthouse optics, lens manufacture and flat glass (window glass) production. From 1929 the company started producing domestic glassware with ranges of pressed glass, followed by 'slumped' glass in 1939. To glass collectors, the name 'Fiestaware' and handkerchief vases has since become synonymous with Chance.

Friday, August 24, 2007

Milestones of Life

Clinic Induction Ceremony
Sept 15, 2007
2:15
Class of 2009

The Clinic Induction Ceremony is intended to recognize student progression into the clinical phase of the Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) program. The special event occurs following the students orientation to clinic and signifies their preparation for patient care.

Its a milestone in my life. The WHITE COAT CEREMONY!

What are some of your Milestones? Do you recall BLENKO Milestone's ie what got you hooked on BLENKO?
What was your first AH AH gotta have that BLENKO experience? OR just write to share Life Milestones.
Hope to hear from you.
Hillary

Thursday, August 23, 2007

IMAGINE - John Lennon

Imagine was released by John Lennon in 197l. I was born early in the am on August 23 1984...BLENKO GLASS COMPANY in Milton, WV was busy that year making wonderful
crystal TOP HATS, crystal penguins, (use your imagination - as my scanner isn't working today).....IMAGINE.....(I'll upload photos next week when B-day money makes a new one available).
Blenko Glass Designer at the time was Don Shepperd. Don Shepperd was a naturalist. He loved the outdoors, this theme was often captured in his glass designs i.e. 'big sky', the mountains in the bottoms of bowls, OWLS, BIRDS, Penguins, etc.
The BLenko Collectors -Four and the Blenko Museum websites have a numbers of images,
the Blenko Museum has images taken by professional photographer. Both sites are educational and recommended viewing.
But for today we'll IMAGINE that I am not in CLINIC - but relaxing watching the Kanawha River with friends, or enjoying a movie, or a nice meal. . . . and that this BLOG contains very nice images of BLENKO GLASS from 1984. IMAGINE!
Works for me!

Sunday, August 19, 2007

A CLASS ACT - DAVID HARDESTY - WVU PRESIDENT

Today's post isn't about BLENKO GLASS .



President David Hardesty is leaving WVU after 12 very productive years.



David and Susan Hardesty have been President and First Lady of WVU for 12 years - they are the only President and First Lady I remember.



From grade school through Dental School I watched in awe as the two of them so graciously entertained during Football Games, and at Public Ceremonies.

Later as a Foundation Scholar, I had a closer view of their intense involvement with the University,and their 'deep love ' for every aspect of the University.

The Hardesty's had a 'open door' policy. I believe most anyone could walk in and speak with them if they had an issue. Both were very involved and concerned with all parts of the university and campus life. My friends and I felt that they 'wanted ' to know what we thought about issues.



The announcement of President Hardesty's retirement was made over a year ago and a new President has been named. I am writing about this today as I received a letter - actually a form letter send to thousands of people who support WVU from President Hardesty. It served to remind me that CHANGE HAPPENS....and when it does it is a time to remember the GOOD and to LOOK forward to the FUTURE with HOPE.



The content of the letter was thought provoking, and highlighted some of

the achievements of WVU. I want to share them with you.



- For the first time in WVU's history Morgantown enrollment topped 27,000.

- The football team won the Gator Bowl, the men's basketball team captured the ACT championship, the women's soccer team won the Big Eat Championship and the women's basketball team made it to the second round of the NCAA tournament.

- Donors provided gifts to the WVU Foundation, which increased financial support from $17 million over the past 12 years to a record breaking 83.4 million for the 2006-2007 year.

- WVU students continued to earn prestigious national scholarships - 18 Truman Scholars and 30 Goldwater Scholars

- WVU became one of 39 four year institutions selected to participate in the national high education project known as Foundation of Excellence in First College Year.

- The Faculty member continued to distinguish themselves as teachers and scholars. Mining Engineering Professor Syd Peng was elected to the National Academy of Engineering, an organization of the nation's most elite engineers.

- The M mountaineer Parents Club grew to include more than 16,00 families.

- Work progressed on important building projects including renovations on Oglebay, Brooks and Colson Halls for the forensic science, geology, and geography, and English programs.

_ WVU named its 22nd President Michael S Garrison, Mike has incredible energy and enthusiasm and shares with his wife Heather, a deep love for this institution. I am confident that his vision, dedication and public service experience will enable him to continue advancing WVU toward even greater national and international recognition.



President Hardesty ends the letter with this statement: "Now that the time has nearly come for Susan and me to say goodbye, we do so with enormous gratitude. we have been privileged to hold positions of trust at a very special moment in time - the turn of the century, the dawn of a new millennium.

We prepare to leave with joy in our hearts, thankful for the education we received at our Alma mater and extraordinary honor of serving it. We are confident that future leaders will serve WVU effectively as it marches into the centuries yet to come, with the indispensable help of everyone who loves this University. (the end).

When I think of President Hardesty, the quote below comes to mind:

Frances de Sales
Nothing is so strong as gentleness. Nothing is so gentle as real strength.

Thursday, August 16, 2007

DISTRACTIONS

IF you follow this BLOG you know the last 4 months have been full of distractions ie Dental School Boards ( dental school, clinic, life etc.) . . . well, Im happy to report the ADA letter arrived yesterday and I passed. I return to school on Sunday - this Blog will return to 'normal'
on August 20th.
Thank you to Laura Moul for providing the photos you are viewing today. Thank you to Tim Alonzo for continuing to BLOG while I am on vacation. Thank you for reading. I am behind on posting your comments - so far behind that I am going to delete the comments on hold - and start over today (thank you for understanding)....I hope you will continue to read, comment, and send material. HJH












Photos of the retired workers at BLENKO , and random photos from BCS Convention
Photos by Laura Moul photographer of Milton, WVa.

Tuesday, August 14, 2007

Blenko Glass Show




Blenko Collectors Glass Show

I never quite get over the surprise when I see so many vintage Blenko pieces in one location. Then to see the range of common pieces to some of the hardest to find designs made it a show for everyone. The BCS Glass Show was another spectacular success. There were sellers from West Virginia, Ohio, Michigan, and as far away as Texas. If one were careless, one could overspend at one of these shows. I hope all dealers and buyers had as wonderful a time as we did. If you ever want find the best that Blenko glass has to offer, don't miss the show next year.

Monday, August 13, 2007

Bill Blenko Day

Richard and William H. Blenko

Bill Blenko Day Friday August 10, 2007



William H. Blenko Jr
., was born in Lancaster, Ohio in 1921. After graduating from the Carnegie Institute of Technology in 1942 with a Bachelor of Science Degree, Bill Jr. joined the United States Air Force where he served in England as a Captain. This is also where he met his bride to be, Jeanne. In 1946, after serving his time in the 8th Air Force, William H. Blenko Jr., became the 3rd generation to join the family business of glass making. By 1969 Bill Jr. was appointed President of the company. He is a member of several associations including:
  • One of only 12 Lifetime members of the Glass Art Society
  • Lifetime member of the Stained Glass Association.
  • American association of Glass and Pottery Manufacturers.
  • American Ceramic Society.
  • American Legion-VFW
  • Kentucky Colonel
  • William H. Blenko Jr. is still active in the company as Chairman.
This past Friday Blenko Collectors in Milton, WV celebrated Bill Blenko Day in honor of William H Blenko Jr. Mr. Blenko received proclamations from both the city of Milton, and the state of West Virginia. There were no seats left in the 4-H building since many fans and collectors as well as former Blenko employees came to celebrate the life and work of this wonderful man. They don't make them like him anymore!

Thursday, August 09, 2007

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SKIP COPLEY

HAPPY 50+ BIRTHDAY SKIP COPLEY. Skip Copley a Realtor, in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina and Myrtle Beach North Carolina is celebrating his 50th birthday today.
Skip and his daughter Julia are major BLENKO GLASS collectors. Skip is the proud owner of many Blenko items from the 1940 s , 50s, and a large collection
of Husted Lamps. Skip is a regular contributor of photos and comments to this Blog.
hjh

Monday, August 06, 2007

Blenko Friends


These are some of our Texas Blenko Friends

As my wife and I prepare to leave on our road trip to West Virginia for the Blenko Collectors Convention. I wish my friends who are already there or are on the road a very safe and pleasant journey. Really, when you boil our hobby down to its basic elements, it's our friendships and acquaintances that make our hobby so enjoyable. Friends who understand your passion, and share your excitement over a new find, or share your disappointment over the piece you missed out on. Friends who freely share knowledge and experiences. Hope to see you all at the convention.


"Friends have all things in common."
- Plato

-Tim

Sunday, August 05, 2007

BLENKO CONVENTION - Starts AUGUST 9th

Some new information about the CONVENTION from Tammy Kosla the BCS President

.Hillary
The Comfort Inn is where most collectors stay but the hotel is full... The last time I called the Hampton Inn they only had around 9 rooms still available. I was told a couple days ago the Red Roof may have rooms.

The Collectors usually make their reservations as soon as the convention dates are released and posted on BlenkoCollectorsSociety.com website.

Can you also post that William Blenko and the Blenko employee's will be hosting a party at the company VC on Saturday after the BCS Show and Sale at 3:15 - Refreshments and fun will be had by everyone that attends.

Tammy

Saturday, August 04, 2007

Guest Blog From Teri DiLibero

THIS POST is by Teri DiLibero of BLENKO Collectors Society. She and her husband Barry also own the Balloon you'll see on August 9th at the Convention. Plan to attend!

In addition to being a Blenko Glass addict, we also have another hobby. Hot air ballooning. When we purchased our latest balloon, a lighthouse we decided to combine our two passions and we put Blenko Glass into one of the windows in the lighthouse. When we go on the road, we want people to ask us about Blenko Glass so we can help make new glass addicts. We love to promote the company for a few reasons. The main one is that we want the company to be in business for at least another 100 years and it is American made glass. Since we had the balloon built last year, we have had several requests to bring 'Flighthouse' to the Blenko Collectors Society Convention in August. Bill Kelly at the 4-H building where most of the convention is held has gone out of his way to accomodate such a large item on the grounds. Blenko also asked to make a stained glass version of the 'Flighthouse'. How could we say no? I believe that they will be available in the Visitor's Center over the convention.
The Convention this year will be extra special. August the 10th will be Bill Blenko Day in Milton. We hope even more people will come out for the convention to congratulate him on having his very own day. The sale on Saturday the 11th will have more vendors than ever before. A Blenko collectors dream come true I think.
'Flighthouse will fly weather permitting at Sunrise and 2 hours before Sunset on the 9th and 10th.

Full Convention agenda can be found by clicking this link - http://blenkocollectors.com/blenkocollectorssociety2007conventionagenda.htm
For more information on 'Flighthouse' the flying Lighthouse - http://www.lighthouseballoon.com/

Thanks to Hillary for inviting me to do a quick guest blog.
Teri DiLibero

Thursday, August 02, 2007

Value of Your BLENKO?

We get a lot of email about the VALUE of Blenko. I am attaching one from today's mail, with this attempt to respond.
The best way to determine value is with an appraisal. Lon Mitchell of Mount Pleasant, South Carolina is a licensed appraiser who is knowledgeable of West Virginia Glass - he also conducts estate sales. Tammy Flower, of Trophy Hair in Charleston, West Virginia conducts estate sales and knows the value of West Virginia Glass. I'm certain there are many others. I just happen to know and have been in direct contact with these two individuals.
Another less costly method is to check out EBAY.
If you know of a good sources of make a comment.
Hope this helps you Nicki.
Hillary


Hello Blenko Lady
,We are trying to get an estimate for several "carafs" by Benko.How can we get a financial value? They were purchased about 20 years ago.We are forced to down size due to our age and downsizing. We want a fair price. Can you please help us out with a general price. Perhaps you need photo graphs.Please respond only to
: nicki.XXXXXXXsozon.net.*
I am at my mother-in-laws and I am helping her.Nicki
781 xxx-xxxx*

*personal info deleted.

Wednesday, August 01, 2007

Your COMMENTS about BLENKO GLASS are Welcome!

August 1, 2007
The policy of the blog has been to publish ALL* comments.
Beginning 8/2/07 we will delete any comment that isn't about BLENKO GLASS, the glass arts, collecting glass or the subject of that days post.
Thank you
Hillary J Homburg