Getting elected by the other members of the Art Knife Invitational has been a a recent great honor for me. I have always wanted to participate in this show. I was passed over for it ten years ago. I was beaten by three votes. The maker elected at that time was Yoshindo Yoshihara . . . kind of puts a perspective on the quality of the makers included in the show. I have won major awards for my art and service to the knife industry. This particular accolade is the culmination of a ten year wait . There are only twenty five makers world wide chosen to participate in this art knife show. Someone has to drop out or pass away to present an open slot. To be elected to fill a position in this show by the other makers involved is one of the greatest honors in the custom knife industry with so many talented makers involved in this wonderful art form. I am humbled and very excited by the opportunity to present my work in this one of a kind art knife show.
This year has been one of the most gratifying years for me. Over the years, I've taught many classes both for beginning and advanced bladesmiths. At the Guild show held in New Orleans, I was presented the Red Watson Friendship Award. This award is presented to the bladesmith who most helps other makers. It is the highest honor bestowed by the Guild on a maker.
I was also honored the receive the ABS's highest honor, the W.W. Scagel Award at the 1999 Blade Show in Atlanta.