Carpentry apprentices to show off skills

Something new and exciting is abuzz at the Have Hammer … Will Travel (HHWT) carpentry workshop.

Everyone curious about what’s up at this flourishing lakeside life skills training center is invited to drop in for the open house reception planned for Thursday, June 13, 4 to 7 p.m.  Enjoy refreshments while watching  the 25 students work on a wide range of projects and perusing a selection of finished products.

HHWT has gained a new lease on life since receiving a generous donation of brand new power equipment through the good graces of the Ajijic Rotary Club. The new gear includes industrial quality Jet brand band saws, drill presses, planer, table saw and jointer, in addition to components for a central dust collection systems and assorted hand tools.  Total value of the package: around 26,000 U.S. dollars.

Since its inception in 2008, the HHWT woodworking and carpentry program has primarily depended upon second-hand tools and power devices provided by local carpentry buff and supporters, including the late Bill Lindley and Joe Schwartz.

“The new equipment supply gives us the ability to take on more students,” says project coordinator  Richard Bansbach. “They will be able to get to the equipment with less waiting time and we will dealing with fewer breakdowns.”

Under the guidance of head teacher Lalo Robledo, HHWT currently offers instruction to teens and adults three afternoons a week, and biweekly classes for younger students ages 10 to 12.

HHWT is headquartered at Carretera Chapala-Jocotepec 110, a few doors west of the 7-Eleven store in Riberas del Pilar. For information call 766-4830 or visit the non-profit’s website at www.havehammer.org.