THE 2006 NASPC PIPE BY MICHAEL PARKS

by John Tolle

The time has come for the unveiling of our new 2006 edition NASPC pipe. I could not be more pleased than to announce that, for 2006, Michael Parks, pipe maker extra ordinaire, has agreed to make this edition. First, I want to preface the details by saying that I personally believe Michael to be one of the very top pipe makers in the world, period! Now, on to some details.

The pipe is a large billiard handcrafted in a carved finish in a dark brown-to-black color with a handmade tapered Cumberland stem. The stamping reads "Parks II. NASPC 2006," where the II refers to Michael's grading system. The bowl is approximately 2 3/8" tall and 1 5/8" across, with a 3/4" cylindrical tobacco chamber. The shank diameter measures 13/16." The total length is 6 ½," with the stem equaling 2 5/8." The top is smooth finished.

The briar is Italian, and Michael travels to the mill to choose his wood in person. If you wish to see more of Michael's work, visit his website at www.ParksPipes.com. Michael's workshop is located in Ontario, Canada, making him our first Canadian pipe maker to honor NASPC! Over the years, many of you have admired his work at the shows he attends, including CCPCC, CORPS, and our own NASPC show, where he will once again be this August. He has expressed his thanks for the opportunity of crafting our 2006 NASPC pipe, and I express our entire thanks to him for agreeing to craft this edition. Notice the word "craft," as Michael really is a true craftsman!

Finally, how to get one. The price is $215, available to NASPC members only, and we will also display the prototype at our NASPC show this August 27th. From now through Friday January 20, when Bill picks up the mail, orders can be sent to the NASPC PO Box. The price includes shipping when all the pipes are finished, which will be sometime during March/April, 2006.

To order, make out a check to NASPC and send it to PO Box 9642, Columbus, OH 43209-9642.