I benefit from a background in art thanks largely to the encouragement and instruction of painter and ceramics artist, Jerry Sawitz. Jerry helped me reach beyond photo realism and see art as a powerful and profound mode of communication.

As a teenager, I developed a love for motorcycles and soon found myself writing feature articles for a regional motorcycle magazine published by Margaret Fowler. At the time (about 1986) this particular publication was a pet project of sorts to some top names in the motorcycle industry. I was surrounded by well-known writers, publishers, manufacturers and racers who were eager to help me develop as a motorcyclist and as a writer. Motorcycle journalist and author, Bill Stermer became my editorial mentor and devoted significant effort teaching me to be a writer.

I spent 15 years in the motorcycle industry writing under the by-line “Moto-Joe”. During that time I was also a periodic host/co-host on a popular motorcycle-related radio talk show in Los Angeles.

In 1993, I married the lovely and gracious Amy.

It was in 1994 that I happened upon a book in the library on arms and armor. Inside, I found a picture of 16th century wheellock firearms. Something about the wonderfully bizarre weapons set the artistic fires burning. I determined to make one, but could not find a kit for the wheellock mechanism. I researched the complex lock design and, with a little advice from Dale Shin, an expert in Renaissance-period arms, succeeded in building locks that would efficiently strike a fire using the period-appropriate iron pyrite. I immediately produced 12 elaborate, functioning wheellock pistols.

My interest in Damascus steel began during my study of early barrel making techniques. I have specialized in pattern welding, especially its more complex and historically significant forms, ever since.

In 1998, I took up competitive sport fencing and have been fortunate to receive instruction from the great Ed Richards, former three-weapon national champion, Olympic athlete and knife aficionado. My current coach is multi-time Russian Pentathlon champion, Tigran Shaginian. I hold a United States Fencing Association (USFA) competitive rating of “A” in Epee.

I play the guitar and can fake it pretty well on piano. Currently, I am collaborating with my beautiful and talented wife on a number of projects including a novel.