COAL BOWL QUIZ (WVU & Marshall FANS)

1. What single item can assure you have a great tail gate and is made in WVa

by West Virginia craftsmen?

YES! BLENKO GLASS

Be ready for the NEXT HOME GAME WITH YOUR GLASS IN APPROPRIATE COLOR AND LOGO

FROM BLENKO GLASS!

Special Orders accepted....Visitors Center has limited quality and styles daily. 304 743 9081

hjh

Paradise Is Where I AM - Voltaire

This Labor Day Weekend I drove home to Charleston. Spent time at Blenko Glass, and time with friends and family .
Having time to joyfully engage in the things you care about is a great gift. A lesson learned this year.
How fortunate we are to live in a small friendly state, where people stop to offer help to those in need, where we know our neighbors, and share in their times of happiness and sorrow.
Take some time this week to find pleasure in what you have, where you are, who you are with.
Life is a treasure. Living in West Virginia can be, if one chooses to view it as a gift. West Virginia is made up of many treasures. The wonderful mountains, rivers, beautiful majestic scenery.
Blenko Glass Company - the only manufacture of antique glass in the United States located in Milton, is one of West Virginia's many treasures.
hjh

SMART WOMEN FOOLISH CHOICES

* NOTE: BLENKO Is Always a Wise Choice!
For my recent 23rd birthday a very dear friend gave me a vintage copy of the 1985 book Smart Women Foolish Choices.
The techniques Drs. Cowan and Kinder perscribe for finding the right man and avoiding the wrong ones...can be use when searching for the perfect addition to your COLLECTIONS.

1. Broaden Not Lower Your Expectations! Be open to new designers, new colors and new companies.... NOTE: BUY ONLY MADE IN USA GLASS.
2. Avoid All Too Common Types. Regardless of how cute, sweet, or colorful .. LEAVE THEM - bring home only the VERY SPECIAL!
3. Recognize 'Diamonds in the Rough' Some times you'll find the very best find...in an unusual location, or covered with dust...Don't over look an item of BLENKO because it isn't perfect. NOTHING IS PERFECT! Embrace the air bubble or small flaw as a symbol the item was hand crafted and is one of a kind!

IF you didn't read this book in the mid 80s and I must admit it was published before I could officially speak...find a copy. Chapters entitled: (1) Waiting for the Prince (independent, self centered, emotionally closed, unwilling to make a lasting commitment Prince)....could also be true of the local glass vendor. (2) Letting Go of Expectations/ Hidden Illusions (3) Longing vs Loving. There is more...but the authors say always leave them wanting more....so I will quit now.

This is a MUST READ before you hit the MILTON FLEA MARKET in search of new TREASURES for your collection. hjh

LABOR DAY WEEKEND SALE AT BLENKO!!

BLENKO GLASS COMPANY Milton, West Virginia - off I 79 midway between Charleston and Huntington . . . . The Visitors Center Gift Shop is having a Labor Day Weekend Sale with up to %75 off some items...many one of a kind items available.
Many items from The new Bayliss Design Team 2007 line are available in this weekend in the Visitors Center Gift Shop.
Its a great time to SHOP BLENKO!

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

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.

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.

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

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!

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.

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.

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.

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!

BLENKO COLLECTORS SOCIETY AUGUST 9-11

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

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

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

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

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.

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

BLENKO GLASS - WHY IT'S HOT!

William John Blenko, a stain glass marker, started creating colorful glass in the 1920's, but his vibrant barware didn't gain attention until the 1950s. Today BLENKO FANS "are looking for ways to incorporate the bold colors into their homes," says Houston dealer David Lackey. LOOK FOR: Whimsical shapes. "Collect decanters in an array of colors or gather different designs in the same shade," suggest Stephen Sanders owner of New York City store the End of History, which specializes in midcentury glass and pottery. COST: Simple, small vases are least expensive ($100). Large, unusual shapes can run upwards of $1,000. Glass $450-$750. the End of History. 212 647 7598.


This is from FAMILY CIRCLE MAGAZINE page 42 this month.
Photos of BLENKO Glass accompany the article.
NOTE: VINTAGE BLENKO can be purchased in a number of places locally - IN MILTON along the main street of town
more than 6 shops sell BLENKO vintage. In Charleston THE PURPLE MOON has a very nice collection.
If you know of other ' special ' Vintage Blenko sellers - make a comment.
Thank you Jinny Spann of Charleston, W.Va for this post.

Eureka! It's Blenko!

Thanks for your faith in my blogging skills Hillary. Here's a feeble first try.

I'm sure almost everyone already knows the wonderful story of how William Blenko first named his glass company Eureka Art Glass Company in honor of his ruby formula discovery. He eventually renamed the company Blenko Glass Company in the mid-1920s. One of the rarest non-Blenko items a Blenko collector would love to find is a Eureka Art Glass Company label. By the way, notice the first Blenko label resembles the Eureka label. Of course the label was eventually redesigned to look like a hand. The Eureka label will most likely be found on a piece of stained glass.

I'll be blogging from the Blenko Collectors Society convention in Milton, WV starting on the weekend of August 10, 2007. Hope to see you all there.


-Tim

Texas Loves BLENKO!

Over the years - BLENKO Glass Company in Milton, West Virginia has made many items that are 'special' The TEXAS Cowboy Hat - The Long Horn Steer...those Texas folk really appreciate BLENKO. The Texas Collectors Group is with question, the most active group in the Blenko Collectors Society. After graduation - I aspire to belong to an active Glass Group. TIM ALONZO has graciously agreed to host this BLOG for the BLENKO COLLECTORS CONVENTION. The convention starts August 9th. hjh

BLENKO COLLECTORS CONVENTION - Mark Your Calendar

If you read this blog regularly you know - Dental School Summer Session ended Thursday. My National Dental Board Exam is scheduled for August 2/3.
My world the next four days is a cubicle at the WVU-Charleston Campus Library as I prep for Dental Boards.
Tim Alonzo Blenko Glass Collector from TEXAS, has agreed to host this BLOG during the Blenko Convention and several other collectors have offered to provide BLOG updates for the next 7 days. I'll occasionally do a short post. I expect to return to normal schedule after 8/14. Thanks for reading, I enjoy your email and comments. I'm certain Tim will also enjoy your comments. Hillary

This information was provided by Tammy Kosla - who is President and Founder of the Blenko Collectors Society. I wish I had a photo of Tammy to post, so when you attend the convention you would immediately recognize her. Tammy and her husband John are from Chicago. Their BLENKO GLASS collection is featured on the BlenkoProject website.
Blenko Collectors - like all collectors are extremely friendly, passionate, and want very much to make new friends, and meet new collectors. Everyone is most willing to share information and knowledge. They also 'help' one another complete collections! hjh
JOIN!

BCS 2007 Convention Agenda

Thursday, August 9th, 2007

Sunrise - Flighthouse balloon inflation and flight
The Flighthouse balloon has a painting of vintage Blenko as one of the windows and is a great sight to see! The balloon will be near the 4-H building on the Fairgrounds. Weather permitting, the balloon will inflate at sunrise (approximately 6:30 AM), stay inflated for approximately 45 minutes, then take flight.

7:30 AM – Blenko Visitor Center opens, visit the BCS welcome table on the second floor of the Visitor Center

10:00 AM to Noon – Stained Glass Class
Call Blenko at 304-743-9081 and ask for Don Lemley in stained glass to reserve a place in the class. Up to 25 participants will create their own 12" x 12" panel with Blenko Dalle de Verre. Materials fee is $75 and will be paid directly to Blenko. Panels will be available Friday morning for pick-up at the Visitor Center. Be prepared! Come with an image in mind or a drawing of what you would like to make. Wear closed-toe shoes and clothes that you don't mind getting dirty!

Noon to 1:00 PM – Lunch on your own, information available at the welcome table

1:00 PM to 2:15 PM – Factory Tours
Meet on the 2nd floor of the VC. These tours, limited to 10 people per group, will take you behind the scenes to see how the glass we love is made. See the blowers, finishers, glory holes, molds, mold carving, the stained glass department, and much more.

2:30 PM – Blenko Collector Society meeting
Location will be the 4-H building. The 4-H building is located on the fairgrounds across from the Blenko factory. This meeting is for paid BCS members only

Your evening is free. Enjoy the malls, restaurants, and more. Information will be available at the welcome table.

Sunset – Flighthouse balloon inflation
Weather permitting; the Flighthouse balloon will inflate 2 hrs before sunset

Friday, August 10th, 2007 - Bill Blenko Day

Sunrise - Flighthouse balloon inflation and flight
The Flighthouse balloon has a painting of vintage Blenko as one of the windows and is a great sight to see! The balloon be near the 4-H building on the Fairgrounds. Weather permitting, the balloon will inflate at sunrise (approximately 6:30 AM), stay inflated for approximately 45 minutes, then take flight.

7:30 AM – Blenko Visitor Center opens
8:00 AM to 9:45 AM - Master Glassworkers Shop
Retired Blenko workers will be set up in a shop near the Visitors Gallery. Collectors may watch these master glassworkers at work. There will be a drawing for the chance to purchase one of these creations.

9:00 AM – BCS information and membership table opens in the 4-H building

10:00 AM to noon – Presentations
Bill Blenko Day presentations, including Tammy Kosla & Deborah Allen
Dawn Weber – To Label, or not to Label?
Meet three members of the new design team!
Barry DiLibero - Movie, “Batching Blenko”
Question and answer session with Scott Davis, Blenko’s lead batcher

Noon to 1:30 PM – Lunch will be offered for sale by the 4-H club

1:30 PM to 3:00 PM - More Presentations
Walter Blenko – What’s next for Blenko?
Randy Rider – Blenko history through a current day employee’s eyes
Drema Wood – Postal changes and how they affect collectors
Brent Aikman – Blenko in Architecture

3:00 PM to 5:00 PM - Group fun activities involving Blenko. Stick around and get to know your fellow collectors and more about Blenko!

Your evening is free. Enjoy the malls, restaurants, and more.

Sunset – Flighthouse balloon inflation
Weather permitting; the Flighthouse balloon will inflate 2 hrs before sunset

Saturday, August 11th, 2007
8:00 AM – Set up begins for glass show & sale, 4-H building on the Fairgrounds

9:00 AM - Blenko Visitor Center opens

10:00 AM to 2:00 PM - Blenko and other collectible glass show & sale, 4-H building on the Fairgrounds

Noon – Lunch will be offered for sale by the 4-H club

3:15 PM to ? – Blenko Visitor Center
Raffle drawing, meet Blenko employees and the Blenko family, and take advantage of one last chance to chat with fellow collectors. Refreshments will be available.

New Work by Marvin Lipofsky

Marvin Lipofsky, a founder of the Studio Glass Art movment and another BLENKO CONNECTION GLASS ARTIST,

Has a New Collection of WORK

HELP! Can You Identify The Metal Artist?

In 2005 - A Metal Artist sent this piece as a gift - I didn't keep his name or address. Several people after seeing the work, want to get copies for their home/ offices. Do you know the artist? He contacted me in 2005, after reading about the BLENKO PROJECT on line, then sent the metal art to my home in Morgantown. Solomon DVM and several other readers want to purchase this metal art Blenko. If you have access to the artist address or website let us know. The only detail I recall is the name Axel. Thanks Hillary

Response to Your Question! - Art Forms - BLENKO

The question was... 'Hillary do you appreciate any other 'art forms'? ' My obsessions are many and they are diverse. I love vintage cars, Bichon Frise, Warhol, most all things from the 30s, 40s, 50s, and 60s. Music from the 70s and 80s and very old classics. I like learning about 'new' things - or old things that are new for me. Rarely do I see a glass artist whose work I don't appreciate. I think perhaps, I just love beautiful and simple things. IF you haven't tried BLENKO - consider visiting the factory. BLENKO IS BEAUTIFUL and the lines are classic, organic, and occasionally a little whimsy. BLENKO colors are outstanding. Blenko Glass is a decorators dream . . . .design, color, form. Its all there . . . .waiting at BLENKO GLASS, Milton, West Virginia phone 304 743 9081

Photos from the WARHOL MUSEUM - Pittsburgh, Pa.

STAIN GLASS MAKING Classes available at BLENKO!

Don Lemley - the Antique Glass Supervisor at BLENKO GLASS offers STAIN GLASS Making Classes. Interested? Phone 743 9081 to get the schedule or to enroll. The classes are small, with lots of individual attention and guidance.

Blenko Ephemera

This is a wall in the loft of Tim and Karin Alonzo from Texas. They have approximately 50 pieces of Blenko ephemera (printed goods).

More proof the Blenko is beautiful in any dimension!

Vintage BLENKO

A great example of VINTAGE BLENKO - Check out the online stores, PURPLE MOON in Charleston, W. Va., South Charleston Antique Mall, Trophy Hair, Westside Charleston,

Blenko loves Blenko

This ad can be found in the November 1960 edition of House Beautiful.

Thank you to Tim and Karin Alonzo for another great photograph

Blenko Glass - Columbus Ohio - Gift Show

Promoting West Virginia and
BLENKO GLASS
New Lines

Richard Blenko in Columbus, Ohio.

Saturday Morning OPTIMISTISM -

- An Optimist is a person who starts a new diet on Thanksgiving Day. Irv Kupeinet

-In the long run, the pessimist may be proved right, but the optimist has a better time on the trip. Daniel L. Reardon.

Optimism - 1) the belief that this world is the best possible world. 2). an inclination to anticipate the best possible outcome.


In Creating Optimism * by Bob Murray PHD and Alicia Futreberg MS.
the author states he always was envious of people who see the silver living rather than the clouds, had these recommendations.

#1. Go for a walk in the park and take in the beauty around you. ( I suggest a drive to BLENKO GLASS in Milton, WV - where you can walk around a large lake, watch the swans, and ducks, visit the glass garden, enjoy nature, and be engulfed by the beauty around you.)

#2. Head out to a family owned corner restaurant - rather than a chain - strike up a conversation with the cashier. ( I suggest visiting a family owned glass factory, strike up a conversation with the cashiers in the Gift Shop - Angie or Diana. Ask questions, learn about West Virginia Glass).
As a prophetic ending for my week, I received tonight an email from a Panhandle Glass Club member in which she used the 'words' optimistic and happy heart and bright young thing' to describe my presentation.
One of my goals is to always have a 'happy heart' - and to be more optimistic. I dunno about bright young thing .. . . . .think - - - - BRIGHT YOUNG THING..I ask my friend Steve to help with a list. * 1. Annie of the play Annie 2 ZACK -Saved by the Bell 3) Steve Urkel - Family Matters
4. Sandy in Grease. Can you think of more?
* Thank you Steve~

Paraskevidekatriaphobis - Overcome your fear of Friday 13th !

Overcome your fear of Friday 13th - by shopping at the BLENKO VISITORS CENTER - so many wonderful items, the prices are terrific. You'll forget all about 'bad luck' and Friday 13th!
Personally, I believe Friday the 13th, is a great day for new beginnings - begin a collection of BLENKO! Begin a tradition of 'washing your car' on Friday. Begin to drink 'decaf' . . . .do something positive today!
A brief summary of Friday 13th sent by my friend Steve:

Friday the thirteenth is considered the unluckiest of days in many superstitions, unless you were born on Friday the thirteenth in which case it is your lucky day.
The fear of Friday the 13th is called paraskavedekatriaphobia or paraskevidekatriaphobia, a specialized form of triskaidekaphobia, a phobia (fear) of the number thirteen.
Origins
The origins of Friday superstitions are many. One of the best known is that Eve tempted Adam with the apple on a Friday. Tradition also has it that the Flood in the Bible, the confusion at the Tower of Babel.
The origins of the Friday the 13th superstition have also been linked to the fact there were 13 people at the last supper of Jesus, who was traditionally crucified on Good Friday, but it probably originated only in medieval times.
It has also been linked to the fact that a lunisolar calendar must have 13 months in some years, while the solar Gregorian calendar and lunar Islamic calendar always have 12 months in a year.
- Thank you Steve!

The BLENKO PROJECT Needs YOU!

Interested in VOLUNTEERING? The BLENKO PROJECT needs YOU! One of our goals was BEAUTIFICATION * of the lovely grounds at BLENKO GLASS Visitors Center. For eighteen months now several Blenko employees and a small number of Volunteers have been planting, weeding and watering the 'new' beds and plants. We could use VOLUNTEERS for July 15 - August 30th - let me know if you are available - doesn't require any 'skill' or "plant knowledge" just a willingness to hold a water hose, water and or pull the occasional weed. Perhaps 2 -3 hours MAX.
Could be a Sat or Sunday. There will be someone available to instruct the volunteer (ie where the water hose is ...etc.) Let me know if you have an interest. hjh
*Beautification - A term LADY BIRD Johnson coined - but the Editors inform me PLAGIARISM isn't an ISSUE in BLOGGING.

Vintage Blenko Ad

Thank you to Tim and Karin Alonzo

Texas Collectors

A COOL BLAST FROM THE PAST

This summer has been so hot, and dry! In 1980 the BLENKO Glass Catalogue Cover featured PENGUINS - in crystal and blue . . . thought you might enjoy seeing something COOL on this very hot day. hjh

IN THE PINES - BLENKO
( primitives, folk art, antiques etc.)
JULY 21st 2007
9-5
mark your calendar

Bob and Kay Huffman (304 743 8300) are having their 4th anniversary sale and we're all invited!
It's an open house. 'Uniquely Yours' from Teays Valley will serve gourmet goodies all day with hot dogs, watermelon, and lemonade.
They tell me this is an open house full of the 'most wonderful finds.'
I won't be there - so IF you go, send photos and let us know what you bought. hjh

Blenko - an ad from the past

BLENKO - an Ad from the Past
A Blenko Ad from the Past - I know little about this ad - Have you seen it before? Can you tell us about it - Do you have BLENKO ADs to share?

IN THE BLENKO OF AN EYE - PERFECTION!

IN THE BLENKO OF AN EYE - PERFECTION!

The greatest of faults is to be conscious of none" - Thomas Carlyle.


"You cannot run away from weakness; you must some time fight it out or perish; and if that be so, why not now, and where you stand?" - Robert Louis Stevenson.



"Know your major defect. Every talent is balanced by a fault, and if you give in to it, it will govern you like a tyrant. You can begin to overthrow it by paying heed to it: begin to conquer it by identifying it. Pay it the same attention as those who reproach you for it. To master yourself, you must reflect upon yourself. Once this imperfection has surrendered, all others will follow" - Baltasar Gracian.



Recently I wrote about the new BLENKO GLASS LINE - On Sunday we ran PHOTOS of the NEW LINE...

The comments about the NEW LINE were almost all positive, but I didn't react well to the one or two that were not.

Henry Halem called me "BLENKO CHEERLEADER" for a long time Science Nerd
this was not a compliment....and while I am indeed a very vocal advocate for Blenko Glass and West Virginia Craftsmen. The comment by Mr. Halem lead me to concede; perhaps due to a character flaw I actually find the flaws in Blenko glass to be delightful - the marks made by the tools, the occasional air bubble, the rough pontail etc.
It's an age old questions - Which comes first the head or the heart? When a new object intrudes into our horizons, do we know it first, and then we like it, or do we like it first, for how could we possibley like or dislike something before we know it? I have no answer for this riddle - but -
I find myself always loving BLENKO!

Below are the comments from the post -which lead to the self reflection.

Anonymous said...
HillaryI do not like thesenew designsThe victoria looks a biglike older glass.Solomon
6:37 AM, July 05
Hillary J Homburg said...
SolomonTake off the surgical maskturn on the lights and look atthe pictures again - or better yet - don't.Do show the site to your Mom and Grandmother, you mentioned they both love glass and enjoy the arts.Thank you for your comments, the line you mention is suppose to be retro (older) look.Keep reading, and telling others about BLENKO GLASS.Hillary
7:49 AM, July
Henry Halem said...
Very pedestrian designs. In a word dull. The Victoria line is a riff on Roman and Middle Eastern temple glass but has some potential. Hillary, while you're obviously a cheerleader for Blenko Glass, I dare say your critique of Solomons posting is unfair. He has a right to express himself without being criticized for an honest opinion that was solicited by you. Henry Halem
12:08 PM, July 05, 2007
Hillary J Homburg said...
Solomon,Henry Halem, professor, glass designer, author and my friendbelieves I owe you an apology.Solomon, please accept my apology - my reply to your comment was less than gracious. Your opinion and your unedited comments are always welcome.Thank you Mr. Halem for 'calling my hand' on the comment to Solomon.HJH
3:59 PM, July 05, 2007
Anonymous said...
I am sure the good professor would agree that most designs are derivative of something else. It's the spin on the design that is really the showcase. I think it's a wonderful color palette selection with good clean designs. No doubt these pieces can be made any number of ways, but for the time being this is how Blenko made them. Not to make excuses, but one has to remember that Blenko is working under the constraints of producing "production line" glassware, with all that implies i.e. production time per piece, color selection available and other production variables. It is obvious some corners were cut. Were these strictly art glass pieces I'm sure these pieces would have looked quite different. I guess it's like the difference between eating a hearty stew or a plain and simple broth. Both can be delicious for very different reasons.-Tim
8:41 PM, July 05, 2007
sharon reed hill said...
I really like this line: it reminds me of my past. That's how I first remember Blenko glass.The colors are wonderful.I'd like to add that until you, Hillary, started The Blenko Project, I really hadn't appreciated what I have or did have. It was after the first newspaper article, that I decided to take a second look. Always had an appreciation for Blenko but now more so thanks to your making everyone more aware of our state treasure. Thanks!
11:53 PM, July 05, 2007
Anonymous said...
Ms. HomburgDrove to Milton, they did not havemany of these items in the store.We did very much like the new lines.Bought several items, you tell themthey should have at a minimum a display of all new items or what you write about.Ted S. Kellner
hjh

Appalachain Glass - Weston, West Virginia

It's a Celebration of West Virginia Heritage - The Mountain State Arts and Craft Fair.

Ripley's annual Mountain State Art and Craft Fair at Cedar Lakes Conference Center ends today. More than 135 craft vendors, live music performances and tons of food are available throughout today.

Matt and Chip Turner (you read about them in this blog in Sept - they hosted a GLASS EVENT IN WESTON- for glass workers of West Virginia) from Appalachian Glass - a very talented father and son team did demonstrations of glass blowing and the glass making process at the fair. They have a shop right off the Interstate Exit in Weston, and welcome visitors to their store and workshop six days a week. They also have an engraving service on site.

Weston is home of the WV Glass Museum - so if you are going to visit Appalachian Glass, I recommend you drive another four or five blocks and spend the afternoon at the Glass Museum. Weston is a wonderful town, full of great little antique, gift shops, and restaurants.

Photos of The New BLENKO Line

Photos from Blenko GLass Company.

SEARCHING FOR GOOD KARMA- BUY BLENKO!

"Your problem isn't karma, Sheldon, it's attitude!" "Well, Lonnie, maybe it's attitudinal karma !" ?Anonymous from a off broadway play - can't remember the name.


I always say " BUY BLENKO - for GOOD KARMA!" It (Blenko) has been around for a long time - always doing good.

Did you ever think about KARMA - this time last week - my vet and a pet spa were rescusing me - this afternoon A DEP engineer. My first thoughts were about 'bad luck.'

When in reality my 'luck' is very good. Good Samaritians (angels) always appear in the few times of crisis.


Karma - today another angel entered my life . a DEP engineer, . . . . . .while returning from a visit to my Popaw (90 miles away in Southern WV) my rear tire blew. The tire is less than a year old, and has under 9 K. Strange! After pulling to the curb, we phoned AAA (auto Club) they estimated the wait to be between 90 - 130 minutes - it was HOT 90+ degrees. After about 10 minutes, the
good Samaritan Mr. Dan Bayes, Department of Environmental Protection employee drove up. He quickly assessed the problem. Asked if I had a spare, if he could replace the tire. Then suggested I drive 'slowly' to the service station for air. When we arrived at the station. Mr. Bayes was sitting there, " Just wanted to make sure you'll were safe." He then rode off in his large white truck.

While AAA would have arrived it was nice not to wait the 90 additional minutes. My schedule wasn't really altered by the 'blowout'. I returned to Charleston in time for dinner at Quaker Steak and Lube (a first for me) with my friends.

On my next break from school I plan to enroll in a "powder puff' mechanic course, so I might change my own tire and/or perhaps offer assistance to someone else in distress. hjh

BLENKO - to Collect or Use

Don't believe what your eyes are telling you. All they show is limitation. Look with your understanding, find out what you already know, and you'll see the way to fly.~ Richard Bach (from 'Johnathan Livingstone Seagull')


BLENKO GLASS COMPANY in Milton, West Virginia has been making 'Water Bottles' for a very long time. It is known as the longest running item - made before Blenko had its first designer. Water bottles are available in a dozen or more colors - are an expensive way to start a collection - or to add color to your table.
Many 'water bottles' have become highly collectible - the water bottle with handle, the rose', the ebony, the tequila to name a few. (photos follow)

Blenko Water Bottles - Tequila, Rose', Water Bottle with Handle, Ebony Water Bottle, The WEST VIRGINIA UNIVERSITY ' mountaineer and WVU LOGO,' a multi spout water bottle
with bumps.

This year FIESTA WARE also started a WEST VIRGINIA UNIVERSITY speciality item line. So all Mountaineer Fans have the ability to have both Fiesta and BLENKO.

Only one month left until FOOTBALL SEASON! hjh

NEW LINE OF GLASS AT BLENKO!

Very exciting news. The waiting is finally over! The Bayliss Design Team has completed the new designs for Blenko. The three new lines are Bravo, Strata and Victoria. The designs are new, but have a similar feel to them. Along with the new designs are new colors: Sunshine, Dreamcicle, Clover, Crystal, Electric Blue and Vineyard. If you get a moment, check them out and let me know what you think:http://www.blenkoglass.com/2006catalog/2007newline.htm

Thanks to TK for the link and info.
Hope to have photos to post on the blog of these designs early next week.
HJH

RED BLUE & BOOM with BLENKO!

It's a Day to Celebrate! Fire Works - Picnics - Symphony in the Park! Make all these events a little more special.................with some planning and BLENKO GLASS!
BLENKO TOP HAT for holding 'fine Wine - Champagne - Ice - Coke "

Blue Challis A Vintage Blenko
Item - Great for
AWARDS!


FLOWERS - Roses / RED from MILTON FLORAL in Clear BLENKO VASE
These red white and blue one of kind pieces are WAYNE HUSTED 2006 designs. These Husted items are 'pure art' don't use them...just ENJOY THE VIEW! Or if you aren't going out to see 'fireworks' enjoy the brilliance of your glass !

Celebrate July 4th

RED WHITE & BOOM! Celebrate this day.

Check out today's Hearld Dispatch for a list of local celebrations. Huntington and Charleston both have great FIREWORKS scheduled.

If you have a picnic or family lunch planned, I hope you'll include fresh flowers in BLENKO ruby or cobalt vase.

My own family each year makes a visit to The ARTS AND CRAFTS FAIR IN RIPLEY (check out the website) during this holiday weekend. Crafts men and women display and exhibit their wears. Its a great place to see West Virginia crafts and meet the people who make them.

While I love GLASS and try to visit all the Stain Glass and Glass Blowers there are woodworkers, quilt makers, wonderful food items, clothing, leather goods.

There are concession stands on site - so you can buy lunch, leisurely walk around visiting the various craft booths, learning about West Virginia's history and visit with friends you

see only once a year.

Vintage Cars and Blenko Glass

Pittsburgh's Vintage Car Grand Prix July 6-15th.
On Sunday we were fortunate enough to attend a preview event for the Vintage Car Grand Prix. Over 3 dozen cars, my favorite was the FIAT 1500 a 1970 - in a Blenko orange!*
Most of the cars were 60 - 70s the time JOEL P MYERS AND WAYNE HUSTED were designing at BLENKO! Vintage cars are a passion for me, I love cars, not necessarily the muscle cars, but the cars with lots of 'chrome' and heavy design, and also the 'cute' little cars!
My love of the German 'beetle' remains as strong today as it was in 1990 when I saw my first
VW Convertible and declared my self a HERBIE fan!
Standing out as a crowd pleaser was the epitome of sports cars the 1967 Shelby GT1500 KR Convertible. There were there 6 other Mustangs, Corvettes from 1950s to 90s (a dozen), MGs, A Lotus, Mercedes Benz. These cars were for the most part hauled on trailers to the site. Pampered by their owners. Either completely restored or near mint original condition, proud owners stood close by to speak with interested visitors.
So many of the cars were very LARGE - I found myself thinking mpg - These cars were built in a time when the thoughts were about "performance' rather than energy efficiency! hjh
* Anyone know the history of the 1970 Fiat 1500 ?

Blenko in the Windows Doesn't Always Mean Quality Elsewhere

Life is simple - thinking is complicated. Peter Cajander

Holiday Inn University Center - Pittsburgh, Pa.
When we checked in my thoughts were, its an over priced HOLIDAY INN (over $140 single room) - but BRIDGES the bar/restaurant had a wonderful collection of vintage Blenko Glass from the 70s and 80s, probably 20 very colorful pieces housed in a very large window shelf designed to hold the glass. We spoke with the manager about the Glass - it seems the General Manager was a collector of 'colored glass'. The restaurant manager knew very little about the glass or its value. We were feeling much better about the hotel. Vintage Blenko in the bar, my thoughts were this place has great Karma.... Miss B and I enjoyed lunch as we admired the reflection of the BLENKO in the sunlight.

Within 3 hours of checking in we received a call: Ms. Homburg? Do you have a dog in your room? Yes I do. We have a policy against dogs at the Holiday Inn. Since when? I ask. Miss B has stayed in the Holiday Inn on many occasions. Well it seems 2 months ago according to the Hotel manager ALL HOLIDAY INNS ARE DOG FREE ENVIRONMENTS*. He then told me if I expected to spend the night, Miss B would have to go!

While we have been ask to pay a pet deposit (up to $100 ), Miss B has never been ask to leave a hotel. At this point, I must admit the manager was nice, he gave me a list of twenty kennels in the Pittsburgh area.

A BICHON CLUB of Western PA member recommended , THE GOLDEN BONE PET RESORT, after many calls, they agreed to open on a holiday, and accept Miss B. My vet from Charleston agreed to go to his office and fax B's health records so that she might get into the GOLDEN BONE. So many wonderful people working together to assure Ms B was in a safe environment.

The GOLDEN BONE PET RESORT is a lovely place, heated floors, central heat and air conditioning, TV and radio, grooming on the premises. Three exercise periods per day. The attendant used B's favorite words "cute, sweet, darling" when speaking to her. I left feeling Miss B would be very well taken care of.

My trip was saved by the acts of many good Samaritans.

Returned to the Holiday Inn University Center to discover the pool, sauna, and exercise rooms were CLOSED also without any notice....just a hand printed sign...saying closed due to unforeseen circumstances. What a check in day! I will not be returning to the Holiday Inn University Center on my next visit to Pittsburgh -

If you plan to visit Pittsburgh with your pet, may I recommend the Wyndham, Doubletree,
Westin or the Marriott Residence Inn where I am happy to report Miss B is an accepted guest (though after this weekend she may demand to stay at the doggie-spa!).

HJH


*in defense of The Holiday Inn, this new pet policy is listed on their website. Having stayed there before without issue, it simply had not occur to me to check again.

BLENKO - Dreams Pass Into Reality!

Annis Nin said:
Dreams pass into the reality of action. From the actions stems the dream again; and this interdependence produces the highest form of living.

Blenko Glass in Milton West Virginia was a dream for William Blenko, from his actions and belief in himself and the people of Milton this dream became a one of the United States most noted glass manufacturers of tableware and antique glass.
William Blenko - proof that in America with hard work DREAMS DO COME TRUE!

William J. Blenko- The Blenko Glass Company was founded in 1893 by William J. Blenko in Kokomo, Indiana. He was born in 1853 in London's East End, on 36 Wharf Road. He worked in London glass houses when he was 13 years old and eagerly learned about glass formulation. In 1893 he came to America with the intention of starting the first glasshouse that could supply mouth blown (Antique) sheet glass for stained glass windows. At this time, all antique glass was produced in Europe (France, England, Germany) With the exception of Blenko Glass, it is still the same today.
William J. Blenko arrived in Kokomo, Indiana and set up a small shop. In time, he hired and trained other glass workers. William remained in Kokomo until 1903 when economics in America forced the factory to close. As a curious side note- William Blenko gave a solo piccolo performance on the evening of Tuesday, Feb. 13, 1894 in Kokomo.
Over the years, William became aware of the prejudice against American-made glass. Since the studios were owned by former Europeans, they had a natural bias in favor of European glass. William Blenko faced this prejudice until he died.
In1909 he started a factory in Point Marion, Pennsylvania, and later in Clarksburg, WV. Unfortunately, both of these ventures failed. A letter indicates he was working in Bellaire, Ohio in 1919 at an unknown glass factory for $40.00 a week. William was at some time offered a job at Tiffany's in New York for $50.00 a week and he apparently took this job. Finally in 1921, he decided to move to Milton, WV because of the low natural gas prices there. William was now 67 years old, an age when most people retire. Working by himself, he blew the glass cylinders, flattened them into sheets and then went on the road in his Model T car to sell them.
The original name of the company was Eureka Glass Company. It was called this because William J. Blenko spent years trying to find a ruby red sheet glass that would not change colors when painted and fired. When he developed this color, he threw his arms in the air and said, "Eureka, I've found it!" In 1923, his 26-year-old son William H. Blenko Sr. , with wife Marion and two-year-old son William Jr. joined him in Milton. This is when the factory finally took off.

William H. Blenko Sr. had the energy, ideas and an astute sense of sales. By 1927, Eureka antique sheet glass was specified for the Liverpool Cathedral. In 1929, sales were slow due to the depression in America. Bill Sr. seeing a need to make more business, contacted a Boston Importer, named Carbone. Carbone was importing his glass vases from Venice, Italy. Bill Blenko told him he could manufacture them, and save Carbone money. In reality, Bill Blenko did not have the skilled men to make them. When he returned to Milton, he found two Swedish glassworkers to work part-time. They were brothers Axel Mueller and Louie Miller. These two men were highly skilled in stemware manufacturing, and set the standard for all craftsmen to follow. The first samples were made in 1929. Thereafter, hand blown tableware was a major aspect of the Blenko .* The entire history of BLENKO GLASS COMPANY can be found on the BLENKO GLASS CO WEBSITE - William Blenko story was taken from this source.hjh