I slightly modified a standard tool, which we all carry in our tool cases, to create a completely new and extremely useful one. I glued a very small super-magnet to the tip of an umbrella-rib grand damper guide rail bushing easing tool (using "green" heavy viscosity CA glue) to make the most effective screw retriever I have ever used. The long, thin, rigid shaft makes it ideal for removing upright butt flange screws after they have been loosened (before they drop out and down into the action) because it fits perfectly between and behind the jacks. It is also perfect for extracting loosened grand damper lever flange screws, as well as easily fitting between grand backcheck wires to remove wippen flange screws. And of course it can also be used for the general lifting of dropped screws and small ferrous parts from inaccessible, tight spaces.

Chapter members, non-chapter members and dealers have informed me that this seemed to be their slowest summer ever. I would tend to agree. This is not the hottest business around and the economy isn't either. The summer is now over and we can't change it, but now is the time to think positively because the busy season is upon us. This means that we can work hard and push to get more work and sales. If we push hard, it might even make up for a bad summer. Advertising is more effective at this time of year. Calling customers works better now too. Mailings and e-mails can also be very productive.

If we all work hard, maybe we can have a positve impact on what this business becomes, or at least stop the negative slide. Hope to see everyone at this season's first meeting.