SOUL OF THE HUNTER is a collection of outdoor stories relating events that in many important ways influenced my life and how to live it. The majority of these stories appeared in my weekly newspaper columns appearing in the Bradford Era and Olean Times Herald. Over the years, my love of hunting has led me to such far and distance places as Quebec, Newfoundland, the American West, and to Africa. I've hunted a wide variety of game and had countless adventures I will always cherish. I hope these stories from a lifetime in the woods will amuse, move, inspire, and impart their own lessons. Although some of my columns have won numerous state and national awards, I believe the greatest reward comes from my readers who tell me my stories "take them there" and touch their hearts. I hope in this, my first book, my readers will find plenty to love watching the woods take shape in the coming dawn, stalking elusive big bucks, and hearing the buzz of disturbed rattlesnakes. SOUL OF THE HUNTER will take them there indeed!
I was born in February, 1950, a Pieces according to the stars whose sign is fittingly two fish. If that's my sign, it's an accurate one.I love the outdoors. Hunting, hiking, fishing, shooting bows, and riding mountain bikes are my true passions in life. I also enjoy photography and occasionally paint.I graduated from Bradford Area High School in 1968, a member of the National Honor Society and a letter winner in smallbore rifle. My college alma mater was the University of Pittsburgh. I earned a BA in English literature and again lettered on the rifle team.My work experience has covered many varied fields. I started out in the lumber trade where I cut trees, worked in a sawmill, drove a frontend loader, and ran a log skidder. Later, I became an AFL-CIO painter, drywall finisher, and paperhanger. I also was a Medical Equipment Specialist before going into medical sales. Finally, I sold wireless remote controls to industry. The controls regulated anything from a fan to a railroad locomotive.I have written poetry and stories since high school and have been published in six different countries. I currently compose weekly columns for two newspapers and have penned articles for local, state and national magazines. I've won state awards from the Pennsylvania Outdoor Writers Association and a national Pinnacle Award from the Professional Outdoor Media Association.I'm past president of the McKean County Rifle Club and former secretary/treasurer of the Pennsylvania Federation of Sportsmen's Clubs. A graduate of the Dale Carnegie Course, I also served as a graduate assistant in following classes. Active in the service of our Lord, I've held many church positions in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. These include Elders Quorum President, Counselor in the Branch Presidencies and Bishoprics, and membership in the State High Council.My wife, Jane, has unfortunately passed on. My daughters, Julie Dixon and Chrissy Jones, and five grandchildren still bless my life.
