…this is not the birthplace of Pinocchio, but it certainly could have been, as there is a formidable amount of woodworkers and wood carvers busy at work here every day. The Village Woodshop      is the home of 780 members of The Villages Woodworkers  Club.  This is just one more example of The Villages having something for everyone, and it is always top notch and in excellent condition.  Members do go through training to be eligible to use the equipment, however that is certainly understandable for the sake of their safety, as well as the safety of others.In the reception area there is a poster on the counter that reads as follows:  “The Villages Woodworkers Club Special Projects group is an association of members who volunteer their time and skill in support of the community.  We are happy to help with items that are in need of repair and can possibly assist by building unique items that would be difficult to purchase.  We are not a Custom Furniture Store and we want to be sensitive and not take work that local businesses need for their livelihood.  If you seem unable to find a solution to your problem, maybe we can help!”  How nice is that? In addition to working on their own projects, or special projects, they also make and distribute  toys to less fortunate children.  Last year they made over 5000 toys that were given out, not only at Christmas but throughout the year. These are the Santa Claus woodworkers, and then you have the Geppettos, the wood carvers that meet ever Tuesday and Thursday mornings.  They have made over 200 Eagle Canes for veterans.  The eagle head on the handle is beautifully carved and then the veteran chooses how he would like the rest of the cane decorated. The receptionist was a very friendly volunteer who took the pictures for me in the shop and also took time to talk to me about the goings on there.  One thing I found interesting, and it is a theme that runs through The Villages, is every member has to volunteer some of their time to do something. While I was there an individual was picking up a birdhouse that had been made for him.  Some woodworkers come and spend all day, therefore their is a nice area where they can sit, have their lunches and enjoy the company of other woodworkers.  The lunch pails seen there look like they have had many a lunch packed into them.  The great thing about these lunch breaks is they have no limit (I don’t think) there is no one watching the clock.  The woodshop is located on Rolling Acres Road, however you can get there by golf cart.  Rio Grande Avenue to Chula Vista Avenue, left on Palermo Place, go straight and at the first curve there is a golf cart trail that will take you to the ballfields and driving range.  Follow the trail and the building will be towards your left.  If you want a real treat go to their website at www.thevwc.org where you can get all sorts of information, but above all you will see some really professional pictures of projects.  I’ve been here for nine years now, and it never ceases to amaze and impress me how many  great things we have, and this is just another example.  Check out their website, I know you’ll be impressed too.