In March 1961, Texas Air National Guard, Capt. Gary L. Herod, was
piloting his jet over Houston when his jet flamed out over a
populated area. Capt. Herod stayed with his plane attempting to
find a runway or other safe place to land. He stayed with his jet to
ensure that it would not crash in a populated area then ejected at
the last minute around the Brays Bayou area. He did not survive.
In tribute to his sacrifice a Live Oak tree was planted at a bank in
the Meyerland Plaza area. The tree recently had to be felled but was
milled into lumber from which came the Memorial Bench that was
crafted by members of the Woodworkers Club of Houston. Please
read more about
Capt. Gary L. Herod. Members
working on the bench were
George Alderete,
Rich Bajenski, Tom Blanco, Pat Carlson, Ron Galarano, Randy Jones,
Ron Kirchoff, Henry Majoue, and, Tomoko Yamaguchi
WWCH member and professional musician, Mike Hardy, gave an informative presentation on the Alexander Technique for Woodworkers. Mike explained how this study of the body in motion can help us replace harmful habits with new ones that align with our body's natural functioning. He explained how to identify and correct misuse, understand skeletal and muscular structures, and experience the benefits of proper body alignment through interactive activities. He also spoke about Tai Chi concepts to release tension and enhance easeful movement.
