What's Happening in London, KY…

Earlier this month, a group of people from London and the surrounding area gathered at the Laurel County Public Library to learn a skill few people talk about these days.

About a dozen people signed up for the whittling workshop, led by David Paddick, who has been whittling since 1989 and often spends entire days on his porch, carving something out of wood.

Paddick started the workshop with a bit of a joke, telling the participants that they will "will slip and cut off a nose. . . but that's what super glue is for". Unsure whether he meant their own noses or the noses of the snowmen they would be carving, some of the students laughed nervously. Paddick clarified his statement, but went on to add that super glue is also great for stopping bleeding if a person cuts him or herself.

During the class, the students worked on carving a snowman icicle, designed to be hung from a Christmas tree. The workshop covered whittling basics, including knife sharpening, common cuts, and the importance of using sharp tools. Materials, including knives and a small block of wood, were provided to participants.

Libraries that host and sponsor workshops often use printing services to spread the word to library patrons and others in the community.

Although the date has not been announced yet, a second workshop is planned, during which participants can put the finishing touches on their snowmen.