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Wow!
First off, I'd like to say thank you to Ted for getting this whole thing started. After having had such a great relationship with my "regular" gunsmith, Dave Sams, it was hard for me to step out of my comfort zone and try anyone else. I browsed pistolsmith for a year and admired Ted's work until coming to LTW after hearing of what this place was all about. For the last year or so, I've looked whenever I had some spare computer time in the hopes of finding a new 1911 or Hi-Power from Ted's bench. On top of all that, the fine up-and-coming artists of Yo-Bo, under Ted's obviously demanding and expert tutelage, have done nothing but impress me more. I have nothing but praise for the craftsmanship, professionalism, and commitment to excellence of every gunsmith on this forum, as well as the members. Then, through a chance meeting, I came across Witherspoon, aka Chip.
Chip and I share roots in Orange County, the place where I grew up and he was a deputy sheriff. From the minute I met Chip, good things have happened, and he directed me to Al Shear, simply as a friendly face near where I'd be teaching. Al and I met only very briefly, but he offered me his help in finding a place to live in Richmond without hesitation, and for that, I am grateful. Then, it happened... he donated his Operator to LTW. I was awestruck and deeply moved, and I began to wonder what I could do to help. My shotgun is nothing in comparison to his offering, but together I am sure they'll turn out to be a good package.
As for the Colt for LTW#3, I can only say that I have been truly blessed to be able to own some very fine 1911s, and if not customizing one could do some good for someone less fortunate than I have been, then why not? I actually feel like I owe it to them. You see, people in the shooting world have helped me out on many occassions and never batted an eye. George Harris, a man I consider a second father, taught me to shoot, reload, and hunt when I was a kid. He took care of my shooting habits when I had no money in my pocket and nothing to shoot. He fed me and brought me into his home like I was his own blood. George introduced me to Dave Sams while he was at a match at Fort Benning and I was stationed there. Dave is not only a great gunsmith, but he is someone I consider a great friend and mentor. He gave me free reign in his shop and allowed me to look over his shoulder whenever he was building any gun, and treats me as a friend regardless of the situation. The shooting industry is full of people who give of themselves and take care of their own. The men who donated guns, parts, and labor for LTW#1 and #2 epitomize all that is good about humanity, not just the shooting world. I know Ted, Don, and anyone else who works on LTW#3 will do us all proud and create something truly original & exceptional. I know that in the end, we'll all be better for it. So... when all is said and done with this one, JUST BUY A LOT OF RAFFLE TICKETS!
I'm proud to be associated with LTW and everyone involved. GOD Bless you all, and thank you for making this all happen.
~Jim Keeney
PS - Chip, I just sent Al a PM right before I read this, and you and I must have been drinking from the same glass. I used a line from your post word for word and about fainted when I read yours. Oh, the mysteries of life.
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"I'd rather die on my feet than keep living on my knees." - Emiliano Zapata, Mexican Revolutionary
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