Just a bit of information for those who may not know. FF member wwsjr, Willie Steele's sawmill burned on March 16, 2013. Sawmill Burned Today (https://forestryforum.com/board/index.php/topic,65154.msg972331.html#msg972331) (Pictures on Reply #65.)
Notice that on September 18, 2013, he was the first one to volunteer his services to help a needy FF member. (Reply #2) Goodwill Roadtrip/Sawing (https://forestryforum.com/board/index.php/topic,69061.msg1036142.html#msg1036142) Sawing pictures begin on Reply #376.
On October 19, 2015 Willie made this post: Standing in the need of Prayer (https://forestryforum.com/board/index.php/topic,25824.msg1321061.html#msg1321061).
Willie has 7-8Mbf of customer's logs that he wants to get sawn in order to fulfill his commitment to his customers, but he is not physically able to run the sawmill.
Hopefully within the next couple of weeks my son Marty, wife Pat, and I plan to travel to his location (Fulton/Smithville, MS. about 250 miles) and use Willie's sawmill to close out his log yard. There are still many details to work out, but anyone that is willing and has the time to help with this effort will be heartily welcomed.
Mm, please keep me informed on the date when you get it set. I don't know how I can, but I would really like to help. When you set a date maybe I can figure something out.
Good on you MM for stepping up to that plate.. you will make it happen.. 8) 8)
Keep us up dated with info. I don't know if I could travel that far or if I could be any help. You're a good one MM.
Keep us posted on the dates. If there is any way that I can get loose I'll be there. Lorraine said she will come too if I'm able to go.
Lynn,
Let me and Nancy know the dates, and we will be there to offer any assistance we can. Andy
mm you can count me in unless something unexpected comes up :) thats close enough to me i can even bring another mill if you can saw next to a different orange ;D :D :D :D pm sent
If it wasn't so far I would love to help.
It would be a learning experience for me.
You guys are great. I feel bad saying I'd love to help but don't know how I could get there. I'm not very good at sawing yet but I'm a good worker. My weekends start at 6AM Thursday morning & run until Monday morning if there is anyone driving by I can jump in their truck & ride along if love to help.
I commend you guys who have committed to going.
If possible, I'll be there.
The Forum family are some of the best people in the world. It is very humbling to have someone step forward to help a member in need. I could tell the log owners to come pick up your logs, however I feel obligated to cut their lumber as they expected when the logs were delivered to me. I have had some of these customers for 10-12 years.
There are several members of our church and neighbors who want to help when a date can be set. Some of them helped me 3 weeks ago when I could still run the mill. Magic as a sawyer is key to getting the work done. I have no one around me with mill experience to saw. I plan to use the income from the sawing to provide expense money for anyone that wants to assist along with a donation to Forum. My primary goal is to finish the jobs that I have on hand.
MM,
Good for you but I must admit it is what I would have expected of you from all I have seen. Good luck on the project and be careful. I know you will enjoy the time with your son and wife.
I am sorry I am so far away and can't travel that far at this time of year due to other commitments here. Keep up the good work.
Yes, keep us up on the dates. That'll be a long run for me, but I might be able to make it and lend a hand.
As dry as we have been I did not think that I would ever have to watch a weather forecast to schedule sawing again, but depending upon the weather, we are looking toward either the 1st or 2nd week in November.
I live in batesville MS and have a Lt40SH. if its the second week in November ill be home and can help.
You are the second person favoring that week, so let's shoot for it.
Nov. 8th through the 14th will be our tentative schedule.
sounds like a good plan operation WWSJR moving ahead ;D
November 8 looks good for me. I don't know the various plans people have to be here. If I can help in any way please let me know.
MM, are taking your mill to double up on sawing?
Yes, but there is one slight problem. When a certain FF member that runs a big boy sawmill shows up we may very well have to outfit him with training wheels. ;) Oh well, we will just do what we have to do. :)
How many people bringing mills? and would we have enough room to setup
Mine and possibly sandsawmill14 with a B20 are the only ones that I know of. Yes, there is setup room
My mill has several minor problems at the moment that would prevent me from taking it. Bad tires being foremost. Two mills should be plenty.
There is no way I can do it in the middle of the week. It is only 8000bf or so and should not take that long. I am thinking maybe 2 days with 2 mills less if there is 3 mills. One weekend or the other will work for me. On my scheduled I could leave here on a Thursday afternoon and be there by Friday morning. We saw on Friday and Saturday and be done. I could then be back to give my employees a full week. I wish I could be there for a whole week but have responsibilities to my employees and their families.
Quote from: customsawyer on October 24, 2015, 06:19:28 PM
There is no way I can do it in the middle of the week. It is only 8000bf or so and should not take that long. I am thinking maybe 2 days with 2 mills less if there is 3 mills. One weekend or the other will work for me. On my scheduled I could leave here on a Thursday afternoon and be there by Friday morning. We saw on Friday and Saturday and be done. I could then be back to give my employees a full week. I wish I could be there for a whole week but have responsibilities to my employees and their families.
This would work for me as well. I can't afford to spend a whole week, but I doubt we'd need it with enough willing labor.
We knew and understood when this was proposed that there would be a conflict with some schedules. We will try to knock this out during the week, but if we need reinforcements, it's good to know that they will be there.
Of course we do not know what the weather situation will be. We might not be able to start until the middle of the week, so time will tell as we draw nearer.
Is an edger available? Or is anybody close enough to bring one?
Willie has a Wood-Mizer/Cat two blade edger on site. Here is Willie feeding the Edger (https://forestryforum.com/board/index.php/topic,69061.msg1068339.html#msg1068339) when we sawed for Austin Black.
mm what will be there far as log handling equipment ???
A tractor with FEL forks. All of the lumber will be stickered and strapped for transporting.
Willie plans to have someone stage about a dozen logs at his sawmill before we get there.
Here is Willie's sawmill setup: LINK (https://forestryforum.com/board/index.php/topic,68751.msg1031111.html#msg1031111)
I have access to two or three tractors with forks and maybe a Bobcat with tracks and forks for material handling.
willie sounds like you've got it covered smiley_thumbsup looking forward to meeting yall :)
Willie it sounds like you have enough mills coming but if you need some help with moving logs with the tractor or offbearing and stacking I will come and do as much as a 70yo fat man can do. I'm in Fayette County Alabama so it would only be about a 2 hr trip for me.
We will watch the weather and adjust the starting date of Nov. 9th if need be. Starting early in the week will give us an opportunity to complete this project and we will still have the available sawing reinforcements for Friday and Saturday if necessary. This gives us a cushion to assure that all of Willie's customer's logs get sawn.
Anyone that has that date open and wants to come, drop me a PM and I will supply you with Willie's GPS address and my cell#.
My LT40SH has the old Setworks. Even though I will take it, I plan to run Willie's LT40SH which is equipped with Accuset2. I had Marty Parsons to send me an Accuset2 PDF file so that I could do some studying. :P Hopefully I will not crash and burn. :o
I've never used it either Magic. You will do fine. :)
I'm sure Willie will be a fine coach. ;)
Although unsolicited, several FF members have sent contributions which will mostly be used for our refreshments, etc while sawing next week.
The weather forecast shows a chance of rain, but more chance of not, so we will be full speed ahead. :)
If you see that you can come, even for one day, send me a PM and I will give you Willie's GPS address.
Where else could a guy with sawdust in his pockets find friends like this? You boys be careful. Regards, Clark
I had a long talk with Willie this afternoon. Everything is in place for us to have a successful week sawing the logs. We will have some setup and log arranging time Monday, but I know that we will sort things out and get-r-done.
It is not too late if anyone else wants to be a part of this.
As a courtesy, Wood-Mizer sent me a box of 7/39 X .55 Turbo Blades to use and evaluate. I thank them for wanting to be a part of this Goodwill Project.
I have traveled many times, but loading and getting ready is always challenging, but fun. I am 260 miles from Willie, and we have two FF members that will be traveling over 500 miles to be a part of this worthy labor of love.
So many good people in this world... Wishing I was part of the trip....
Me too, everyone have a safe trip. I know it will be enjoyable and I'd love to be there, amazing how far "neighbors" can reach out when the need calls for it.
Our Forestry Forum Family is giving, loving, and strong. 8)
I am very proud to call folks here family.
Lynn pm me your cell number I may try to work things out for monday through Wednesday.Working all weekend but i will contact you before sunday.
PM sent to Al.
Lynn, it looks like I can come down and help on Friday if you are not done before that. I have been to Willies before, but I couldn't find it again with out help. Send me the directions so I can use my Garmin to get there if needed. PM me you cell also if you don't mind. Banjo..... Tim Scruggs
Boy gee I'd love to come, kinda far for my old truck and me...we spent the other day on two different rollbacks! I have work for the excavation boys and myself, physical therapy, doctors appointments and family matters to attend to as well. If I was closer I would.
We would love to have you 4X4, but you will be there in spirit anyway. :)
Info on the way Tim.
We are loaded out and ready to travel tomorrow AM. Gassed up, clothes & boots packed, and the tires aired up. I bought our refreshments, coffee, hot chocolate, snacks, and put the drinks on ice yesterday. Willie said that it will be Chili & Cornbread for supper tomorrow night. food6
The weather forecast shows the front passing and a good week ahead with only a ~30% chance of showers Wednesday. We can deal with that.
Everyone be safe have fun and enjoy
I cannot be there Monday, whole week is iffy now. I have several doctor appointments.
I hate to let Willie down, but I wasn't able to put things together to be there.
I will however be praying for safety, and God's blessings for everyone who is attending.
You will be there in Heart and Spirit my friend. ;)
We knew that the location and schedule would be difficult or impossible for most folks, but it is an opportunity for the others that can attend and help. Not being able to come is one thing. Being able and not coming is quite another.
Lynn,
All loaded up, fueled, and ready to go! Nancy is getting a few things for the road, and the shop fourman has given his instructions to his dogsitter, so it looks like it's on for tomorrow! You be careful on the road, and we should see y'all about 3.00 tomorrow afternoon. This will be the breakin trip for my new truck engine.
Andy and Nancy 8) 8) ;D
Andy, we are anxious and excited, and my prayer is for traveling safety for everyone making this trip.
Sounds like you've got all the manpower you need, so I guess I'll sit this one out. But if that changes, just give a shout.
Andy, don't know what route you will take, but if it's across I 20, the welcome mat is always out. I'm just a few miles north of I 20. If you're coming this way, I'll pm phone # and directions to wille or Lynn..
pineywoods
I'll get the info from Lynn, and plug it in the GPS when we leave, and will try to stop on our way home. Leave your number, and I'll call you as we get close. Andy
Piney, I have your cell# and your GPS address. :P
Work and travel safe my friends. You all make me very very proud.
Quote from: Jeff on November 07, 2015, 08:32:01 PM
Work and travel safe my friends. You all make me very very proud.
If ya think about it, if it weren't for you Boss, none of this would even be happening.
My prayers are for your safe travel, looking forward to seeing everyone. Temp here is 52°, predicted 40° tomorrow morning. Drive safe.
Willie
Y'all guys be careful. Wish I was there to learn more on milling.
mm and willie im sorry i had to back out :( be safe traveling and sawing. hope it all goes well :)
Quote from: POSTONLT40HD on November 07, 2015, 09:06:06 PM
Quote from: Jeff on November 07, 2015, 08:32:01 PM
Work and travel safe my friends. You all make me very very proud.
If ya think about it, if it weren't for you Boss, none of this would even be happening.
There is so much that wouldn't be happening without this place it's hard to fathom. I know of no resource that even comes close to what the Forestry Forum offers.
That's for sure, is there a Jeff Jr. that has interest in watching over the forum in years to come?
We made it to Willie's this morning. We have 2 LT40 supers and 1 Lt50 set up and running. A little slow at getting things going this morning, but when it was the guys and girls were cutting there hearts out. I believe Lynn said that there was a little over 3,000 bf sawed. Cedar, Walnut, Sycamore and Cherry. I didn't take any photos but, there were a lot taken by other folks. I don't remember the other two sawyers names or the off bears at this time. Lynn will give you a better update on all this with photos when he has a good connection with his computer. All the ones that were here today will be back again tomorrow. Willie was able to come out on his scooter and help us with keeping who's is what and what is who's. The ladies prepared some great food for us to eat also. Anyone that was there that can add to this, please do. Maybe tomorrow we can have some better details. bg
Thanks for your update Bill. As with anything, takes a while to get your ducks in a row. :)
Glad everyone made it in safe and are up and running. I hope it is a safe sawing and fellowship! Look forward to pictures and or further updates.
glad its going good :) i wish i could have made it :-\
Quote from: sandsawmill14 on November 09, 2015, 08:44:24 PM
glad its going good :) i wish i could have made it :-\
Me too.
As Bill said a above, we are "up and sawing".
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/20011/DSCN0345.JPG)
As you can see, there is plenty of activity with an LT50 and two LT40SH sawmills running. Willie is keeping an eye on everything.
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/20011/DSCN0343.JPG)
Here is Hookpilot, sawing mostly Cherry and Sycamore.
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/20011/DSCN0347.JPG)
logs2lumber sawed hardwood which included Cherry, Walnut, & Red Oak, etc.
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/20011/DSCN0341.JPG)
I spent the day sawing ERC.
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/20011/DSCN0353.JPG)
Bill Gaiche and Marty stacking pallets of ERC.
FF members RALFF, Slider, Andy White, & Marty, plus the Ladies are doing a fine job is handling logs, lumber, slabs, flitches, & sawdust. Be assured that the Ladies are being very helpful.
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/20011/DSCN0357.JPG)
Oh Yes, we are being well fed. :o Chicken & dressing, green beans, sweet potato casserole, garlic potato, pear salad, and lots of desserts. food6
Looking good Magicman and all of you that made it. 8)
Amazing! :)
Just restored my faith in people. This makes my ticker feel good knowing there is still good people like you guys out there. Thank you
Very good of all of you . This place is really different .
Everyone is doing a great job. Praying that the weather holds good for you all. What a great work is being done! Work hard, stay safe, and have FUN!
Wally
8) smiley_clapping smiley_clapping smiley_clapping
How many board feet did you guys bang out today? Kudos to all involved.
What a wonderful project
very best to all you folks that supported this effort
smiley_clapping
Dan
Great job by all and thanks to MM for another great project. Be Safe!
Good on ya guys!
Lots going on there, be careful!
Absolutely killer! I can feel the energy from here! Simply outstanding in every respect,
This is awesome, wish I could have made it with my mill. Just wait til one of his customers shows up and sees all the mills in action!
Great job, Guys!
@woodmizer @CWarner (https://forestryforum.com/board/index.php?action=profile;u=24562) hope your watching. Your mills bring out the best in folks!
Awesome!!!
And would be awesome to be a part of that activity. Willie is so fortunate to get to see this happen, and more kudo's to Jeff and all who helped get this Forum off the ground and running smoothly.
Prayers for Willie and family.
Safe work and travel for all.
Thank you fishpharmer. As Magicman says, "when you have the opportunity to help, and the means to do so, help and you will be blessed." Thank you for the opportunity, the stories we hear from WM sawyers never cease to amaze us. Thank you all for making it a blessing to work at WM every day. Safe travels to all and our best wishes and prayers to Willie and his family.
Probably everybody has been too busy to notice.. Tomorrow is veterans day. Willie is very much a veteran, having served for many years...Thanks Willie, from a fellow vet....
Quote from: pineywoods on November 10, 2015, 11:57:47 AM
Probably everybody has been too busy to notice.. Tomorrow is veterans day. Willie is very much a veteran, having served for many years...Thanks Willie, from a fellow vet....
CT
Today is the Marine Corps Birthday. Semper Fi my brothers.
Y'all guys are going at it. Sweet.
Keep the pictures coming. God bless each and every one of you who are there working. I tried to get off work but alas the boss said not this week. ::) so I took the last week of the month off instead. :D
Good job, smiley_thumbsup smiley_beertoast
You guys made the channel 9 news out of Tupelo Mississippi. FF got some good pr from it as well. Looks like it will be over before I can get there. Banjo
well the last two days i have been able to help saw for Mr Willie and was a awesome experience. I got to meet some of our brothers and sisters from the forum that we call family. Other than a sawmill shootout seeing 3 mills running in harmony is a great site. Everything was running like a well oil machine and a big thanks to the ladies for all there help pulling and stacking lumber right along side the men.
Quote from: Banjo picker on November 10, 2015, 07:48:54 PM
You guys made the channel 9 news out of Tupelo Mississippi. FF got some good pr from it as well. Looks like it will be over before I can get there. Banjo
http://www.wtva.com/Itawamba_man_gets_help_in_a_time_of_need_.html
Rebecca and I truly had a great time and I learned a lot over the last couple days. Regrettably I had to come home to go to my day job tomorrow. This was a great time for a good cause. Small world, Willie's son-in -law and I work for the same company in Huntsville. Thanks to all for the kind words.
For all those still on the job be well, be safe and see you soon we hope.
Keith & Rebecca
Very good job. Well done.
I actually tried to make it possible to come and help. Couldn't do it. I look for opportunities to show my kids good values. It is stuff like this that overflows good values. My son and I would have worked our butts off to help. Sad that we could not arrange the billion mile trip to come down.
Be proud people.....very proud! ;D ;D ;)
You guys make me very proud. Proud of you.
Very proud of you guys and gals! Great video clip of the effort and of the heart felt support for others.
Yep. I just saw y'all on the local news this morning. I feel guilty for being so close, and not being able to help. No matter how much I wish it did, my schedule simply didn't allow. I'm real proud of all those who were able to be there. Praying everything goes well as y'all wind down the job, and praying for safe travels as y'all return home from this extraordinary act of kindness.
Wood people are good people.
And you all prove it every day.
Good job by great people .
Forestry Forum members helping each other out. I just love this place ...
God Bless all you guys and gals that helped Willie out.
Good job folks. I would have much rather been there than here.
What a great bunch of people on the FF.
Kudos to all involved
Well done to all involved. keep up the good work and stay safe. Sorry you guys are so far away. I know everybody there is having a great time.
I just watched the news story that was linked. I don't know how long it's been since I've seen a story of people doing good on our local news. :( All I can say is; Willie, I'll be holding out hope with you.
I salute all those who went out of their way, and gave that part of their lives to help our friend.
I could not log on last night so I'll catch up with the progress thus far. Thanks to Hookpilot and logs2lumber for bringing their sawmills and spending two days sawing.
As has been mentioned, we made the local newspaper and also the TV news.
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/20011/DSCN0385~0.JPG)
Here Willie is being interviewed by the news lady.
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/20011/DSCN0379~0.JPG)
And then it was my turn.
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/20011/DSCN0383~0.JPG)
Then the news lady took a ride on my sawmill. ;)
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/20011/DSCN2268.JPG)
This picture was made at the end of yesterday's sawing. Rebecca & Keith (Hookpilot) Nancy & Andy White, Willie (wwsjr), Al (Slider), Lynn (Magicman), Marty (MM's Son), Brandon (logs2lumber), Joe (RALFF), Bill Gaiche. Several others not pictured. For extra points, count the Logrites
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/20011/DSCN0374.JPG)
Andy, Marty, & Bill strapping a pallet of ERC.
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/20011/DSCN0367.JPG)
PatD in the Bobcat with a load of slabs.
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/20011/DSCN0371~0.JPG)
A meal gathering.
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/20011/DSCN0359.JPG)
Bill & Slider strapping a pallet of lumber.
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/20011/DSCN0398.JPG)
Willie and Slider at Willie's sawmill.
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/20011/DSCN0395.JPG)
Slider sawing a 20' SYP log.
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/20011/DSCN0388.JPG)
Marty feeding the edger.
I had one instance of having a sawdust buildup on my debarker blade, so I left the log turner claw up so that when the debarker blade hit the claw, the vibration would loosen the buildup.
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/20011/DSCN0393.JPG)
This worked exactly as planned, but there were those that were uninformed that apparently were alarmed and started grabbing cameras, and making laughing remarks thinking that I had forgotten to lower the turner. Silly boys.
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/20011/DSCN0404~0.JPG)
I did not keep count but someone said that I sawed somewhere in the neighborhood of 300 ERC logs. I was happy when the last one was done. :)
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/20011/DSCN0405~0.JPG)
This is only a sample of the pallets of ERC ready to go. I have no idea how many total bf of lumber that has been sawn. I think that we have about 40 logs left.
Great job by all involved. Starting to look like you were wise not to listen to me and start on Friday. ;) We might have to keep a eye on ole Willie. He is starting to act like some of my customers. " Yea I have about 7000 bf of lumber to saw" the next thing you know you have cut a bunch more. :D
Outstanding job. 300 ERC logs? I don't think there are that many in the parish I live in. :D
Great job guys. Wish I was home to help!
I'm on my way. . . now that the work is done
WOW. What a great experience for you guys' I am so happy to be involved with such a FINE group of folks! Wish we could have been there, but a little too far from home.
Frank
Its a miracle that a group of people from all directions can gather and get a major job done and have fun in the process. Everyone involved will receive a blessing from this event, even though it was for Willie. As Willie said, its a God thing.
MM, thanks for the great photos for those of us who could not be there. Another milestone on your charitable life's path.
:o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o
I'll have to read Magics update again tonight to see if I read it right.
:D
Good job guys. :)
The good guys win another one. ;D 8) 8) 8) 8) 8)
Wow! You are all amazing! I keep saying it - there is no place like the forestry forum.
Jeff thanks for showing me this post.
It really warms the heart to see people come together and help one another. In our fast paced world, helping thy neighbor seems to have moved to the backseat. Great job and a big pat on the back to you all!!! 8) Safe return travels, Brian
Awesome job guys!
Have I ever mentioned this is the only forum I get on? Well this is the reason why, you folks out did yourselves this time for sure! Thank you for all the pictures and commentary for those of us who really would've liked to be there (I'd of probably gotten in the way most of the time anyhow) but couldn't and for taking the time to just simply stop and help a friend, proud of you all!
You know we have Engine shows and tractor shows and Heritage Day shows...
Guess we all should start a Saw mill show...
This is a great task, and I would also like to thank the Ladies that are giving their support as well. I hope I don't open a can of worms, but there is an old adage: Behind every good man is a good woman. Thanks to all and God bless.
Another successful day comes to a close. We finished sawing all of the logs in the main log yard, so all that is left is about 20 logs that will be sawed tomorrow. logs2lumber (Brandon) is planning to come back tomorrow and will saw on Willie's sawmill. I will continue on my sawmill. We should finish all sawing by noon.
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/20011/DSCN0415~0.JPG)
Here is some of the pallets of SYP, etc. ready for pickup.
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/20011/DSCN0409.JPG)
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/20011/DSCN0411~0.JPG)
Willie was presented a commendation for his military service today.
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/20011/DSCN0417~0.JPG)
Tomorrow's logs at my sawmill as slabs burn in the background.
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/20011/DSCN0418~0.JPG)
Tonight we were treated to a Bluegill & Catfish meal with all of the trimming. food6
I loves bluegill and catfish :).
Awesome stuff, you guys.
sounds like yall have had a good week :) i wish i could have made it. mm any idea how many bd ft yall cut this week ???
We should have a tally tomorrow. :P
Your doing great MM. Glad that Brandon will be back to help finish. There was a lot of logs to be sawn. Really nice to see Willie get his commendations that he has earned for his service. Thank you Willie for your service. Willie, keep cracking that whip so that job gets done. bg
Great job guys. To help a friend in need you guys are the best.
Oh, man, that catfish and bluegill (and all the fixings) look SOOOO good! Guess I should have driven the 600 miles ...
Thanks again all. Makes us proud to be fellow FF members.
Ok, so, MM and team got a major campaign organized...
brought all the different people, from all over, together...
Got them to work TOGETHER and organized...
Fed all the hungry people...
presented awards to a veteran...
got good press...
and did it in the allotted time allowed...
I think we found our next president and cabinet.... ;D
seriously- everyone at my work keeps asking about updates on this thread. well done guys and gals.
I like your thinking, when do we start making banners? :)
Hopefully I can get some further numbers and info tomorrow, almost dark now. Magic,
MM , Pat and, Marty were the last to leave. More later
thanks willy, and nuff said, this forum and members are beyond description, I am so happy for your completion on this job, words can not tell the love.
Words cannot describe the tremendous effort of caring and giving that Nancy and I were lucky enough to be part of. The true spirit of the Forum really showed itself this week in Mississippi. Lots of really hard work, great fellowship, and great food every day was the standing order. Our Forum women are some of the hardest working mill hands I've ever seen! Truly the finest group of people to ever serve the cause of a brother in need. Thank you Lynn for all you do to inspire and perform on such a great and meaningful project. Jeff, thank you for starting something that has really grown in the true spirit of all things worthwhile. There were a few members that were trying to perfect their landing techniques, but the "judge " would not score anyone over a 9.5. Someone else will have to fill in the details later. Thanks for all the support for this project all our forum members have shown. Now I'm going to bed!!! Andy
Good on you folks, good on you ! :) :) :) :) :) :)
Wow........truly inspirational. ;) ;)
Now you can all rest and feel good about yourselves. Reading this thread has been a joy.
We made the trip back over to WWJR place and i sawed on his New Lt40 super electric boy let me tell you that thing was like driving a new Cadillac. 8) The experience and the people i have met this week can never be replaced. I am glad all the logs got sawed up and a big thanks to all the help and off-bearers that moved alot of wood.
Mission Accomplished !!!! Much work, much sawing, much eating, and much LOVE. Willie and Marciadeen were wonderful hosts. Willie knew each log stack and what the cut list would be, and Marciadeen had help from family and friends preparing our meals. Everything went off as planned.
We had three sawmills running Monday and Tuesday, one sawmill & the edger Wednesday, and both mine and Willie's sawmills & the edger Thursday and Friday.
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/20011/DSCN0420.JPG)
logs2lumber (Brandon) sawing on Willie's electric LT40SH.
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/20011/DSCN0421~0.JPG)
PatD running Willie's edger. Actually the ladies worked. They carried lumber, slabs, flitches, and provided much needed help.
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/20011/DSCN0427~0.JPG)
Banjo Picker (Tim) stacks a flitch from a very valuable Walnut log that I am sawing as Willie's Brother watches in the background.
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/20011/DSCN0426.JPG)
Our last noon meal together.
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/20011/DSCN0433~0.JPG)
A few pallets of lumber.
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/20011/DSCN0434~1.JPG)
Very Valuable Walnut lumber. ;)
I want to emphasize that every person, whether they were sawing, stacking, driving the tractor, or whatever else, contributed to the success and completion of this goodwill project. It absolutely took everyone. Thank you Jeff and the Forestry Forum and members for your support.
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/20011/DSCN0435.JPG)
As we were leaving Willie & Marciadeen's home Pat noticed this Rose Bush that still had one remaining bloom in the very top. What a humbling reminder that even after leaves and blooms fall, there is always hope eternal if we will only pause to look. Thank you Willie (Butch) for giving us and the Forestry Forum the honor and opportunity to help you fulfill the commitments that you had made to your customers. Thank you also for being a true and dear Friend.
Just a few more shots of the sawing for Willie. Everyone there had one goal in mind, Saw for Willie. It was a thing to behold, like a symphony of machines and people making it happen! So much love.
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/30359/DSCN0423.JPG)
PatD, church member, and Bill Gaiche on tractor
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/30359/DSCN0424.JPG)
logs2lumber sawmill
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/30359/DSCN0425.JPG)
Hook Pilot sawmill
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/30359/DSCN0426.JPG)
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/30359/DSCN0427.JPG)
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/30359/DSCN0428.JPG)
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/30359/DSCN0428.JPG)
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/30359/DSCN0429.JPG)
Rebecca, Keith Hook Pilot, and Lynn.
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/30359/DSCN0430.JPG)
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/30359/DSCN0431.JPG)
PatD and Rebecca
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/30359/DSCN0433.JPG)
logs2lumber sawing behind fire on right
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/30359/DSCN0434.JPG)
Willie and the mail carrier
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/30359/DSCN0435.JPG)
Magic Man and Hook Pilot
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/30359/DSCN0436.JPG)
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/30359/DSCN0437.JPG)
RALFF and Willie
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/30359/DSCN0438.JPG)
Hook Pilot, RALFF, and church friend
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/30359/DSCN0439.JPG)
logs2lumber, Mary Miller
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/30359/DSCN0440.JPG)
logs2lumber Brandon and Mary
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/30359/DSCN0442.JPG)
Willie and Marty Davis
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/30359/DSCN0444.JPG)
Hook Pilot setup
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/30359/DSCN0445.JPG)
Hook Pilot lumber
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/30359/DSCN0446.JPG)
Who was that masked man??
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/30359/DSCN0447.JPG)
Willie and the news crew
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/30359/DSCN0448.JPG)
Rebecca, Lynn, and news reporter
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/30359/DSCN0449.JPG)
A great effort by the entire forum. Andy
Truly a wonderful event! :)
Heartfelt congrats and thanks to all involved.
The Forestry Family is truly different, thanks Jeff! 8)
Great beyond words!
Where are the shots of the 'smores being roasted in the fire?
Great effort by many. Each deserve a huge big smiley_thumbsup.
Andy, some names with your pics of "new" people not named before would be great with your pics.
........ many thanks for the extra work on the names.... smiley_thumbsup
Quote from: 2StateTrigger on November 14, 2015, 02:58:50 PM
Where are the shots of the 'smores being roasted in the fire?
By 8:30 we were all in the bed. Our 'smores were spelled snores. smiley_sleeping
Good job boys and girls! 8)
Really outstanding show of community spirit, from a very far reaching community! 8)
It looks like you had four mills there total?
It was good to see Willie again, Chris (aka...Meadows Miller) and I went down to see him when Chris came for a visit from Ausy. Land several years ago. It was a treat to meet Lynn and his bride Ms. Pat as well. If you ever get a chance to work one of these events, do it. You will be glad you did.
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/18028/20151113_083233.jpg)
Here is Lynn riding along on his mill....A very nice feature....The man behind him is a potential future forum member...He is a sawmiller...just sold a B 20 and I bet he will get another mill before too long. He has read this thread, so I encourage you to make the jump and become a member of the forum.
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/18028/20151113_105326.jpg) I got Ms. Pat to take this of Lynn and I... That way I had proof of where I was. ;) I really enjoyed myself... Banjo
Magic, is there not a market for the Cedar Slabs in Willie's area?
All you guys did a great job and will truly be rewarded for it. :)
Some were recovered and some not. Notice Pat's Bobcat load of slabs were strapped for loading, and I saw one dump truck load go out. There were several more bundles to be hauled away. That being said, enough is enough and our charge was to clear the log yard which included slabs, rotten logs, cut offs, and whatever else was there. The burn pile will continue to be busy for a while.
Great Job guys.
I am new to the forum but was really impressed by all those involved with sawing for Willie. I was able to help some on Friday and enjoyed meeting everyone. The work everyone done this past week just goes to prove that God is good, especially when he has people like all of you as his tools.
Congrats on the finishing up all that wood. Great reading and seeing all the pics. If anything comes up around my area I would be proud to help and learn from the best. Good deed done good. God will bless you all that helped.
Welcome to the forum sawmill addict, it's awful hard to beat the folks that hang out here, especially when magicman gets them organized and on a mission ;). More than anything I guess is that I just like the fact that this is how I was raised and it is how I want my children growing up.
Welcome sawmill addict. When you get a chance, it would be good to start a thread and tell us a little bit about your interests. Would you be the gentleman in the first picture I posted behind Lynn on his mill? Banjo
Welcome to the Forestry Forum, sawmill addict!
Good Morning sawmill addict, and Welcome to the Forestry Forum. It was my pleasure to meet and work with you.
Adding your location to your profile helps us to know. :)
Great job, you all! And thanks for sharing through words and pictures with the rest of the FF family.
And welcome sawmill addict!
I am the one in the picture you referred to Banjo Picker. It will take me a little while to figure out how to post and reply on the forum but I will get information on soon. People all around the community are still talking about the great work all of you accomplished the past several days. Again great job to all.
I'm not sure how I missed this tread till today, so I'm "late to the party". First, my thoughts and prayers to Willie, and second, what a great bunch of people on this forum. I'm proud to be a member. Thanks for leading the charge, Lynn. smiley_clapping smiley_clapping
Mark
Welcome to the forum Sawmill Addict. This is a great group of people that have a common interest. They are also a caring, giving and compassionate group of men and women. Sorry we missed you at Willie's. We left Friday morning. I am the other half of Andy White but not sure if there were any pictures posted of me which is a good thing!
Quote from: nmericle53 on November 15, 2015, 02:09:13 PMI am the other half of Andy White but not sure if there were any pictures posted of me which is a good thing!
Oh yes, Reply# 111, you are standing beside Willie. :)
With all the bad things going on in the world these days it's wonderful to hear of something like this project. Thanks for doing and thanks for sharing.
Well,
Talk about late to the party. I have been disconnected for quite a while and didn't know anything about this or I woulda come to help.
To say youall did a good thing is a massive understatement.
I am proud of you forumites. The folks here make all the difference. I was invited to MM's for the lucas demo a few years ago. Met Willie there. He brought a crew from his church to help us add on to ours. BTW a tornado had destroyed their building and they didn't have a building of their own when they came to work on ours.
Good folks on this forum.
pc
New FF member "sawmill addict" is assisting Willie's wife with lumber handling. He just sent me a PM stating: I counted the lumber everyone cut this afternoon and it added up to just over 16000 boardfeet.
That will bring her a tidy sum in this time of need. Thank you all for the prayers, well wishes, expense donations, and hands on help. It could not have happened without the combined Forestry Forum effort and support.
16000 bdft :o out of 7-8000 ft of logs thats a heck of an overrun :D :D :D yall had a good week i wish i could have made it :(
i hope willie is doing well as can be expected. will keep him and his family in my prayers
Quote from: sandsawmill14 on November 21, 2015, 11:10:35 PM
16000 bdft :o out of 7-8000 ft of logs thats a heck of an overrun
Yup, I had seen the logs which is why I was calling in reinforcements. ;)
16,000 thats a good number and great work from everyone. would do it again in a heartbeat
16,000 bd ft that's good news MM.I have been doing more reading than posting on this thread but meeting mr willie,his family and the fine folks that were there was by far well worth the trip out there for me.al
I'll say it again.......Amazing!
Thanks for the update on BF MM. I just got back to this thread and as was said would do it again in a heartbeat.
We wish a Blessed Thanksgiving to all on the forum.
Keith & Rebecca
I talked on the phone briefly with Willie yesterday and he was so appreciative that the logs/lumber burden had been lifted from him. Words can not express the gratitude that Willie, his family, and the entire community felt toward the effort and love that was shown by Forestry Forum members during this time of need.
Very good Lynn. Thanks for sharing. :)
Quote from: POSTONLT40HD on November 25, 2015, 05:26:20 PM
Very good Lynn. Thanks for sharing. :)
X2! smiley_clapping smiley_thumbsup
I am glad that I was able to have a small part in this effort. It makes me feel good to have been able to help out and it was also nice to meet all the the forum members and their wives that I had never met before.
wwsjr LINK (https://forestryforum.com/board/index.php/topic,87020.0.html)
May Willie Steele, Jr finally rest in peace and may his wife and family know that we are praying for them in this time of loss.
Herb
Our deepest condolences go out to Willie's family.
That is very sad. :(
It is nice that you guys were able to help him and his customers get things settled.
He will be missed.
Thankfully he was able to be comforted with the caring fellowship and assistance you and others here provided in his time of need. The news video showed just how happy you all made him. May we all have such grace and compassion when it is needed. The support for him and his family will always be a warm remembrance for them too. Godspeed.
Godspeed my dear friend. Your battles are now over. Sweet God given peace to you now. We will see you again. Andy
Prayers to family and to know there is no more pain or suffering rest in peace
Hi All, Just found this thread, and read through it, I've tears in my throat. That is/was a wonderful happening. I should be a movie, I guess it is. I don't know what to say. Wifey would say: "It's beautiful!"
Thank you
Richard
Condolences to everyone who knew him . Sure he went easier knowing that you guys finished his sawing for him. Red
Note: Willie's sawmill and edger are listed in the "For Sale" board.
Here is a LINK (http://djournal.com/news/circle-of-saws-friends-cut-itawamba-mans-last-load-of-logs/) to the newspaper article detailing our sawing for Willie W Steele Jr (wwsjr).
I also just found out that sometime during Willie's last weeks he arranged for his Fire Department to get a "Jaws of Life". No one knew anything about it, not even his wife, until it was delivered. He was such a caring and giving person. Apparently also secretive.
Willie sounds like he was an awesome man. Wish I could have met him, there aren't many people like you guys and Willie left. Merry Christmas everyone.
A year ago this week LINK (https://forestryforum.com/board/index.php/topic,86345.msg1326948.html#msg1326948) we began our travels to our late Friend and Forestry Forum member wwsjr (Willie Steele's) home to begin sawing on November 9th. This combined effort allowed Willie to check off his final commitments that he had made to his customers, and to rest easy during his final days.
I just talked with Willie's widow concerning the final cleanup efforts that she is now doing. It has been a struggle and sometimes a seemingly hopeless situation for her, but she will forever be grateful for the Forestry Forum and how Willie's membership affected her life, both then and now.