What is your profession and background?

I have been a wood worker for over 30 plus years. I started out framing houses and doing concrete/block work which led into fine wood working and stone work. Now I have a shop at my home in Tioga County, PA, where I make furniture of all types, some of which is displayed in Peddler's Village in Lahaska, PA, and an artisans gallery in Wellsboro, PA. I also create Native American weapons. Also I have completed a 60 day course as a horseback, fishing, and hunting guide at the Winter Hawk Outfitters School in the White River National Forrest of Colorado.

What originally interested you in martial arts?

My original interest in the martial arts was the Bruce Lee movies and kung fu tv shows. I have always been intrigued by the oriental style and mystical way of life, and how they related their form with nature and animals.

You were one of Sifu Rick's original students from the "basement days". What was that like and what are your fondest memories of that time period?

The basement days were very intense, focused, and to the point. It was a privilege to be part of that and to study authentic teachings of Sifu Rick. There was the basics all the time and also some free style to see where each individual would go with their ability. Also there was new information added all the time to help us grow.

Some of my fondest memories would be receiving one of the original certificates from Sifu Rick and him telling me that I was equal to a black belt of the Tae Kwon Do school where I had previously studied. My brother Steve had found Sifu where he was working at the time in 1979 or 1980. Additionally, the trips to NYC for seminars and also the camaraderie of Big Mark, Philly Ed and his sister, Windmill Mark to name a few. Also building a wooden man and installing it in the basement.

What did you miss most about your training?

What I missed the most about training was being part of something that is positive and constantly moving forward.

What was your initial motivation for coming back to train with Sifu Rick and join us here at PAMA?

My initial motivation for coming back was that after raising 3 children who all are adults and doing well, one of which has 4 children, I thought that now it was my turn. I was pleased to find that the academy was and is still going strong.

Since your hiatus and return, what do you appreciate most about martial arts, your training, and PAMA?

I appreciate martial arts for the fact that it develops ones spiritual, physical, and mental ability and that it accommodates just about anyone regardless of any disability, handicap, or size. It gives me the opportunity to overcome some physical challenges that I have and it enhances my mental and spiritual state. I appreciate PAMA as it has more than Jun Fan classes to give students a well rounded gift of knowledge and history of the arts to pass on.

What are your goals you hope to achieve through martial arts?

Goals that I hope to achieve would be to grow spiritually, to practice and always learn as long as I'm above ground, to teach my grandson who has started to show interest, and to set a good example for others as the arts are about much more than just fighting. Also to be an instructor at PAMA.

Any closing remarks?

Training at PAMA has allowed me to create some more wooden men and has helped open up spiritual/meditation doors. Also the world of Shaman experiences have been enhanced, which partially led me back to PAMA. Being able to share knowledge with the Khenpo has helped me to be more humble and knowing that I don't know everything and to always seek more positive paths. I'm looking forward to grow and move forward with everyone at PAMA.