The Georgia Chapter of Safari Club International (SCI) proudly accepted the prestigious Safari Club International Foundation award in January 2025, recognizing their chapter for their unwavering dedication and longstanding commitment to supporting wounded veterans.

Among the distinguished attendees at the Nashville conference was James Lakeman, owner and president of Glasslined Technologies, and also the Georgia SCI Past President and Vet Committee Member, whose unwavering commitment to the wounded vets earned him well-deserved recognition. Alongside James, the esteemed current Georgia SCI president, Lester Richardson, stood as a shining example of leadership and compassion.

Glasslined Technologies, Inc. donated $3,500 to SCIF to cover travel expenses for the Wounded Veteran of the Year at the event.

Recently, James Lakeman had the opportunity to visit the Carpenter Enameling Center in Bellevue, KY—a museum that beautifully traces the fascinating journey of vitreous enamel. First celebrated as a decorative art form, enameling dates back as far as 200 AD and was originally used to create intricate jewelry, religious objects, and ornamental pieces. Over time, this timeless craft evolved into a critical component of modern industry, with applications that now shape everything from household appliances to advanced manufacturing processes.

The visit was a powerful reminder of how artistry and industry are often more connected than we realize. For James, enameling holds a special significance. His connection to the field goes back many years through his relationship with Woody Carpenter. In the early days of Glasslined Technologies Inc. (GTI), James regularly collaborated with Ceramic Coating Company (CCC) on new parts and reglazing projects. Woody was always generous with his time and expertise, spending countless hours sharing insights into the enameling process—conversations that helped shape GTI's early approach and deepened James’s appreciation for this remarkable material.

Owner and founder, James Lakeman, received a surprise award recently from the Lake Oconee Elks Lodge 2849 for his innovative annual Cast & Blast event at Lake Oconee in partnership with Georgia SCI and the Elks Lodge, honoring wounded veterans.

Cast & Blast is designed to honor and support veterans, many of whom have received Purple Hearts for their service.

During the three-day weekend, veterans and their families enjoyed meals, accommodations, and all activities at no cost, as a gesture of gratitude for their service to our country. 



The President-Elect for the Georgia Elks Association also shared plans to introduce the Cast & Blast event and fundraiser to lodges across the state.

Congratulations James!