Richard Blenko, 1980-2007

Richard Blenko began work at Blenko Glass as a very young man,  he and his older brother would often ' hang out' with their Uncle Jim Derkin and men from the plant - listening to the stories,  watching glass being made. Rick knew he would join the Co. after graduation.  From the beginning of his tenture at Blenko, he did whatever had to be done.  While his job was managment, he was accomplished in the many task of running a Glass Company.,  he was the Promotional 'Face of Blenko',   Richard has often been called an amabassodor for WV Glass,  he was instrumental in Blenko involvement with PBS.  Rick loves film,  and it was only natural he would be involved with films documenting the long and  colorful  history of Blenko Glass Company. Richard often assisted with selecting designs for the catalog,  designing and assisting with designs from 80 to 2007.

Full Bio: 

attended marhall univ and univ of south carolina; graduating MU with a BBA in Business MGT

President Blenko Glass from 1976-2008 4th Generation direct decendent of William J. Blenko

published blenko glass 1930-1953

past president friends of WPBY television wv statewide

past president Society of Glass Practices nationally

past board member WV Public Radio

past board member Cabell County Convention bureau

Arkansas Traveler award

Nominated for Alumni of the year Marshall University

Featured Univ of South Carolina Alumni Magazine

300 PBS television appearances, 2800 broadcasts

Appeared on television with Ingrid Croce, wife of late singer jim croce

 with Wayne Newton, singer

Tug McGraw, pitcher Philadelphia Philles

set record for fund raising Oregon Public Television\

multiple records for fund raising for PBS Television

Participated in 4 PBS documentaries

worked with Ellen Griesedick and Sam Posey on Wall of America

Richard Blenko designed and worked with the head blowers / finishers to design many items for

Blenko catalogue and special events.