Bead Challenge Announced for October 10 Meeting

BSGC member, Marcia Shori, has volunteered to run the October Bead Challenge. The theme is:

Ethnic Inspirations

Anything qualifies—jewelry, beads, sculptural pieces—as long as it’s an Ethnic Inspiration.

We are adding a new twist this year. Each bead challenge entry must be accompanied by a treat or snack based on the ethnic group that the entry represents. The challenge is open to any member or non-member living in the Chicagoland area. The challenge is free to members. A fee of $5 per entry is required for non-members. Each person must bring their entry and treat to the meeting. There will be prizes awarded in several categories.  

We will advertise in local papers where advertising and calendar listings are free to let the public know that they are welcome to enter. We hope to get our name out there and raise awareness of the BSGC—maybe even get a new member or two! If you know of anyone who might be interested, please let them know. There will be information on our website at bsgc.org. 

All entries and treats are due at the start of the October 10 meeting. 

Start thinking now on your Ethnic Inspiration for this challenging project.

June 13 Tamie Simpson jewelry artist and Kazuri dealer

Kazuri, the Swahili word for “small and beautiful,” produces a wide range of hand made, hand painted ceramic jewelry that shines with a kaleidoscope of African colors and Kenyan art. In 2001 Mark and Regina Newman bought the company with the goal to maintain the guiding philosophy—to provide employment opportunities for disadvantaged members of Kenyan Society. 

She has been a jewelry artist for 15 years and has used Kazuri beads in her work for the past 10 years. She became an Authorized Kazuri Bead Dealer in 2007 and participates in 45 events per year. 

As part of the presentation, she will teach how to make a Kazuri cuff. Wire and beads will be available for purchase to those who want to participate. The average cost of the project is $25 depending on what beads you select. Instruction sheets will be included. She will bring some tools but members are encouraged to bring their own round nose pliers, flat nose or chain pliers and a nipper.  

The BSGC will provide coffee and tea at the meetings. We are asking members, who’s last name begin with T–Z, to bring a treat to this meeting. We ask everyone’s assistance in setting up and cleaning up after the meeting.

There will be a bead raffle at this meeting. Raffle tickets will be at the membership desk at the front of the meeting room. Raffle tickets are $1 each or 6 for $5.  We are always looking for bead donations. Please contact a board member or bring it to this meeting.

Meeting 7–9pm

VFW Park Post 3579

10 West Higgins Road

Park Ridge, IL   60068