The Hunterdon County Rug Artisans Guild was founded in April 1977. We currently have over 100 members from nine states. The mission of the Guild is to perpetuate the tradition and art of rug hooking, to encourage creativity, to provide the means for an exchange of ideas and information and to promote educational activities to enhance the interest in rug hooking. Monthly meetings in Flemington, New Jersey offer programs for someone new to rug hooking as well as the seasoned artisan. Members have opportunities to participate in hooking demonstrations, rug exhibits, rug camps and “hook-ins”. A supportive environment is provided for those new to the craft and for those looking to refine their technique. New members are always welcome!

For more information, please contact Cindy Boults at cboults@gmail.com or Therese Shick at etshick@gmail.com

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From the Presidents' Corner

May, 2012

Presidents’ Letter — Spring has arrived with all the promise of fresh beginnings and renewal of energy and creativity. For HCRAG this May brings a new slate of officers in many positions and the re-commitment from those who continue in past roles.

However we must express our Guild’s deep appreciation to the outgoing officers who have served these last two years. Dee and Joyce bravely proved that Guild life could continue after the amazing leadership of Weezie! And indeed the Guild grew and flourished under the grace and thoughtful guidance of these two women who were always present and available for any function required of our organization.

The innovations from the Program Committee have enriched and enlivened every meeting. The number of chairs now required attest to their success at making our meeting so meaningful to each of us! Not to mention the number of rugs and talents shared each month! Above all, the structural organization for all the Guild’s activities have been carefully recorded and codified making the transfer and continuity of leadership a seamless transition.

Our Guild continues to grow and receive accolades from all who read the Loop. And a deeply felt thank you to those who have committed to new positions for the coming two years. While we are looking forward to another wonderful Camp program this summer and are well along on program plans for next year, we are exploding with ideas and plans for our 2013 Hooked Rug Festival at the Mill.

But we must first finish off the year with a fabulous finality: The Pot Luck Picnic in June. Several of our members visited Gravity Hill Farm, an organic farm in Titusville, NJ, where they have graciously offered us their community center. We will provide details at the May Guild meeting. It is the perfect setting for our Hooked Sheep Gathering.

And on April 14, a beautiful spring day members of the Guild, family and neighbors gathered at The United Methodist Church to celebrate the life of Margaret Brightbill. All cried, laughed and felt blessed to have known this remarkable woman. Memories and thoughts were shared by participants as a witness to her many faceted life. However, the constant threads were her softly shared wisdom, humility and hooking.

Cindy and Therese