My friend, Allen Elishewitz

[Jim O'Young]

I have no opinion or interest in the misunderstanding between Allen, Tom, or Howard. There are two sides to every story and the truth lies somewhere in between.

The situation on the other post began when Allen stood up for a good friend. Likewise, I would like to now stand up for the character of my good friend, Allen Elishewitz.

Dogman, you were waiting for the magic post that said "Thanks for the advice, Allen". Well here it is.

At the 1999 SHOT Show, I was showing 1st prototypes of the SPEEDTECH knife. At the time, I knew very little if anything about knife design or blade geometry. Out of all the makers and manufacturers who saw our product, Allen was the most helpful and sincere about pointing us in the right direction and the only one who made the effort to follow up with me after the show.

When Allen & Valerie came out for a vacation in my area he unselfishly spent two out of his four days reviewing my design and giving me an overview of how things work in the cutlery industry. Valerie did not complain at all and even volunteered her perspective on the business side of things.

Three days before the 1999 BLADE Show, where we were to introduce our company to the cutlery world, disaster struck. Our production grinder delivered blades which were totally butchered. In jeopardy of not being able to have anything for the show, I called Allen to ask for his advice. He said to send them to him to see if they could be saved. Allen was up for 48 hours straight preforming his magic, turning scrap into works of art. He did this in addition to handgrinding commemorative blades for us and getting his own knives ready for the show. Our "Most Innovative American Design" BLADE award is due in part to his efforts. Efforts which were done for a person and company who he hardly knew.

As you know, SPEEDTECH is no more. We lost more time and money on this venture than you can imagine. I personally feel that it was all worth it when I can develop friendships like the one I have with Allen Elishewitz. Thank you, my friend.

Stay sharp,

Jim

 

[Gus Kalanzis]

Thanks Jim. That is one of many great stores I have heard about Al and Val. This too will pass and I think will turn out OK, given the people who are directly involved.

 

[lifter4Him]

Though he probably doesn't know me by name, I have had a couple of nice conversations with Allen and Valerie at NY Knife shows. He has always taken the time to explain anything I asked, etc. I don't believe he meant to harm Tom's business, I think the only mistake is that an email probably would have been a better way to handle the situation, but hindsight is easy.
Hopefully, the parties involved will work it out between them at the Blade Show.
Besides, he has my cousin Larry Abramson

watching his table every year in NY.

David Abramson

 

[Allen Elishewitz]

Thanks Jim for the kind words, you don't know how much they mean to me.
I'll talk to you later.
Allen Elishewitz

 

[RKnight]

this has progressed from rare to rank...

last night the thread was locked...

and it might have ended there...

but someone started a new thread and brought it up again

and we've been served two syrup-like testimonials...touching...really...very...touching...

gimme a break

i'm wondering how long it's gonna take for those on the defensive to figure out what the smart move is...

------------------
if you wanta play it dumb, you gotta be tough

 

[Gus Kalanzis]

Seems like the matter has been settled between the people directly involved.

I suggest that the bystanders look for other entertainment