WWW.ALOA.ORG APRIL 2023 KEYNOTES 9 Young Locksmith Spotlight In this new series, we will be highlight- ing some of the youngest members of the trade — in their own words. If you’re in- terested in being featured, please contact [email protected]. W hile I never intended on becoming a locksmith, I have now been in the field for three years, and I am loving every minute of what I do. The help I got to move forward in this journey happened in a very short span of time. I was a se- nior in high school going through a work study program. After no luck finding a job and feeling like I was falling behind, I received a call from my teacher. Know- ing I had no experience, training, or even the slightest clue what I was about to walk into, he put every doubt aside and sent me into our local locksmith for an interview. One day later, I got the confirmation text that I got the job. In my first couple months, I could say it was nerve wracking. I didn’t think I was going to understand anything. I didn’t know if I was going to succeed in this pro- fession. Oh, how the tables have turned. Everything comes naturally, and I have stopped second guessing myself even with only three years under my belt. Joining Bill Mandlebaum in this adventure has taught me a lot. Being an ALOA member will take me even further on my journey with training and certifications to make me a better locksmith. For now, I have no set plans. It’s hard to think about your future when you haven’t really experienced much. I know I’m go- ing to go down many paths in life. I don’t know where they may lead me, but I hope to one day to be able to tell you I have my certifications in master and professional locksmithing. It will be hard work, but I know this is a path I want to stay on. If you had asked me three years ago to master key a lock for you, I would have looked at you like a lost puppy. If it wasn’t for Bill being the most patient instructor, I wouldn’t have the training I have. You only need one person to believe you can do something, and you can make an en- tirely new path for yourself. — Haili Bradley Redford Lock Security Solutions has acquired The Town Locksmith, Plymouth, MI, as of March 1. Its owner, Tom Lewis, is retiring. The Town Locksmith will be moving its entire operation to 46085 Grand River Ave., Novi, MI, into Redford Lock Security Solutions’ existing space by June 1. SAVTA is looking for used safes to use in classes! Donate your safes in good condition by April 10 at ALOA headquarters in Dallas, or bring them with you to SAFETECH in Reno. See page 60 for details. NEWS BRIEF ALOA Past President Leonardo John Passarello, CPL, has passed. Born in Italy, he served as president from 1987-1989 and was widely recognized within the industry for his many accomplishments. ALOA member William “Bill” J. Smith, age 91, of Plymouth, WI, passed away peacefully at his home on March 5. He was the owner of Plymouth Safe and Lock as well as Plymouth Fabric Care and Video World. For online condolences, please visit www.suchonfh.com. ALOA member Phillip W. Lacy, 65, passed on March 22. He was the owner and operator of Lacy’s 1st Choice Locksmith for over 30 years, working along with his son, David. Prior to locksmithing, he owned and operated Lacy’s Corner Market. IN MEMORIAM William "Bill" J. Smith
