By Bill Herrfeldt
THE ERICKSON TRIBUNE

With the unmistakable aroma of sawdust wafting in the air, folks are busy designing, making, or mending things in the well-equipped Woodwork and Hobby Shop, located on the terrace level at Fox Run.

The Woodwork and Hobby Shop is open from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily, and people work on projects throughout the day. At their disposal is an array of equipment that would make any home woodworker envious. The shop has everything from 10” radial and table saws, to a band saw, router, and drill press.

And to keep the air fresh, the shop even has a dust collection system.

From Bat Houses to Cabinets
Once each month, about 15 or so enthusiasts meet, either to learn more about how to use a particular piece of equipment, or to plan the group’s next cooperative venture. Currently, the folks are thinking about making bat houses to be located in the wetlands at Fox Run.

“This project is a big undertaking because we’re told that three or four bat houses are needed, and they are quite complicated to make. That project will involve nearly all of us, from those making each piece, to others who’ll help assemble each bat house,” says Cliff Holforty, who moved to Fox Run from Farmington Hills in 2003.

“I had a wood shop in our house, so there are about 14 wooden cabinets in our apartment that I have made over the years. From time to time, I get the urge to make another, so besides going to meetings, I may go to the shop several times per week when I have a project to finish,” Cliff adds.

These Guys Can Cut It
“A few members even have lockers in the shop where they keep their personal tools. Occasionally, they grab a tool or two to finish something on their ‘Honey-Do List’ back at their apartments. Some things never do change,” smiles Cliff.