Passing the Baton

shavings

Dear Friends,

I hope the new year finds you all well and prospering in your woodworking endeavors. I know its been a while since you’ve heard from me on this blog. The past year has been a season of change for me, and it’s been difficult to find the time to write. I’m writing now to let you know that I’m passing the baton, at least for now, in regards to updating this blog.

I’ve reluctantly decided to temporarily step away from my involvement with the school in order to work through some personal family issues. I will miss teaching and I will miss seeing all of you but I feel this is the best option for me at this time. I am deeply appreciative to the school coordinators who are all my close friends, in their understanding and support of my decision. We are all hoping to work together again soon.

Many of you have gotten a chance to work with Jonathan Schwennesen. Jonathan served an apprenticeship with me several years ago and we have worked together teaching for several years. He is extremely qualified to teach any of the classes and will continue doing so. Stan Beckworth will also continue teaching. Stan is the one who taught me how to cut my first dovetails when I was 11 years old!

Jonathan and Stan will be keeping you guys up to date on this blog with class news and class updates, so please stay tuned.

Thank you to all that have attended my workshops and I hope to see you all soon.

Best wishes for the year ahead,

 

Frank Strazza

10 Responses to Passing the Baton

  1. rootertooter February 23, 2016 at 12:17 PM #

    You dont know me, but i have follow you for some time. I hope everything gets back on track soon for you. I will miss your work and knowledge. good luck

  2. Mike February 23, 2016 at 12:22 PM #

    So sorry to hear that. I really wish you well.

  3. Dave Dalton February 23, 2016 at 5:44 PM #

    i’ll miss your blogging and class updates, Frank. I’ll be praying for your family.

  4. James W May DDS February 23, 2016 at 8:08 PM #

    Dear Frank, I haven’t known you as long as many people that may respond to this announcement, but I wanted you to know how deeply I cherish the workbench you made for me. Just last week I updated my will which I had not done for 15 years and your workbench I listed as my most prized positioned. It can never be sold and has a a long list of my heirs to go through if anyone dies or doesn’t want it so in 100 year or more it will still be in my family.
    I wish you all the luck and good thoughts you deserve and will be thinking of you and adding you to my prayers.
    p.s. I use it every single weekend and walk by it many times a day since it is still where we placed it inside my house hand tool workshop. Thanks, Jim May DDS

  5. Jeff Smith February 24, 2016 at 12:10 AM #

    Frank,

    I’ll be praying for you and your family. Hang in there brother.

  6. Jason Zvokel February 24, 2016 at 6:06 AM #

    Frank,

    You need to do what’s best for you. Hope everything is OK.

    Best of luck to you

  7. Steven Longley February 24, 2016 at 7:56 AM #

    Frank,

    I’m sorry to hear that other priorities are taking you away from your passion of teaching and woodworking. I hope your family situation resolves itself in a positive way and that you can get back to the bench soon.

    Steve

  8. Rick February 25, 2016 at 8:54 AM #

    I really enjoyed the classes I had with you. Good luck with the issues you are facing. I’ll be thinking of you and looking forward to your return to the school, I know you have left it in good hands. Say hi to Stan for me. I was in his finishing class and rocker.
    Rick Lucier

  9. Bill McCaffrey February 26, 2016 at 6:28 PM #

    Our prayers are with you and your family. Family always has to be our number one passion and pursuit – everything else can wait. Never waver in your faith.

    Bill & Karla

  10. Steve Stewart March 3, 2016 at 4:04 PM #

    Howdy Frank!

    I am very saddened to hear of an especially stressful period in your life. The Brazos Rocker you were kind enough to lead Karen and I through construction remains the most comfortable chair in our home!

    You are not only an incredable craftsman, but a GREAT human being!

    Stephen and Karen Stewart
    Huntsville, Al.