straightcuts

I worked with Larry on his Habitat book, spent time with him at trade shows, and kept in touch by phone and email over the years. He's a dear friend, a mentor, and a gentle, caring human being who always brought out the best in those lucky enough to spend time with him. Larry might argue with me, but I'd also call him a provacateur, because he always managed to get to the root of issues, forcing you to see things with fresh perspective. He made me a better editor and a better person. There's no doubt he'll live on in the hearts and minds of thousands of carpenters, helping us to value good work and share the best of our craft with others.
Thanks amigo.
--Tim Snyder

Thanks for posting this story. Buying "local" can lead to more sustainable building just like shopping at farmers' markets leads to more sustainable agriculture. As builders, we need to go even further and make use of salvaged materials whenever possible. Bamboo flooring made in China, shipped to the West Coast, and then trucked to the Northeast can't come close to the green value of wide pine boards from a sawmill just 30 minute's drive from my house.

I coauthored the first two New Yankee Workshop books with Norm back when the series first got underway. The days I spent with Norm troubleshooting the prototype for each project, talking about woodworking and lots of other topics, and doing mundane tasks like sweeping up sawdust --those were some of my most enjoyable days as a journalist. I learned a lot about woodworking and gained a good friend in the bargain. Despite his celebrity, Norm never lost touch with his roots, and his reverence for tradecraft and respect for others touched everyone he worked with. Thanks Norm, and good luck.