Celsed

This is exciting news--that WGBH will float a woodworking show to follow Norm's big footsteps. A long-time fan of NYW (I did meet Norm once and he was as gracious in person as he is talented on TV)and my shop's gear pretty much resembles his --except for that fantastic wide-belt sander. I'm sure the show will attract a sponsor as no doubt a one-minute shot of woodworking machine in action sold untold numbers across the nation. I'm not much on show titles but I do agree that the show should feature other woodworkers around the country--pros and amateurs. There are numerous hobbyists clubs and among them there are some tremendous unheralded talents. My own woodturning club in RI has a member who just stepped down as national president of The American Association of Woodturners. He is not only talented but a great teacher as well. There are many accomplished amateurs who are also skilled in giving demonstrations and would make interesting --and low-cost-- material for the new WBGH venture. Good luck. I am looking forward to the debut.

RAH writes: If it had not been for Norm and his wonderful show, I would not have ever become serious about woodworking, a hobby (and sometimes small business) that I have carried into my retirement years. My shop now has many of the tools and machines that he used on his show (I'm sure the show was a boon to Delta, Porter-Cable etc,)which I was able to afford thanks to a stint as an adjunct professor. I was able to recreate several of his projects and with the skills acquired, tried quite a few of my own creation. I do hope that PBS is able to come up with a similar woodworking show. We have generations of young people who because of budget cuts are unable to take hands-on technical classes like wood and metal working in school. There will be a need for woodworkers and other craftspersons in the future. Shows like Norm's helped steer young people toward those occupations. Come on PBS--come up with a new show and equally engaging and skillful host.