I am often asked, “How did you become interested in making pens?” My answer is always the same; I have always loved and appreciated the beauty of wood. I have been making small woodcrafts for approximately 15 years.

In 1999, my nephew gave my son a hand-made graduation gift. It was a pen and pencil set. I was intrigued with this unique gift and greatly admired the beauty of the wood. So, needless to say, I had to check into pen making. I turned my first pen in November 2002, and have enjoyed the results of every pen I’ve turned since.

I take great pride in creating one-of-a-kind, heirloom quality gifts. It is humbling and reassuring to accept compliments from my customers on the quality of my pens. It was only after much prodding from friends and family that I took my pens “on the road” in October 2004, and began showing my crafts at Arts and Crafts shows.

Woodturning has become a second love for me after my family. My wife, Linda, assists me in the shop, and our children, Kristi (Wilton) Albritton, and David are very supportive of my work.

In addition to woodturning, I have been actively involved in several civic activities in my local area:

• Assistant Cubmaster – Pack 700: 1987- 1992
• Webelos Den Leader – Pack 700: 1990 – 1992
• Assistant Scoutmaster – Troop 700: 1992 – 2002
• Cubmaster – Pack 700: 1997 – 2002
• Committee Chairman Cub Scouts & Boy Scouts – Pack 700 & Troop 700: 1994 – 2002
• Inducted into Order of the Arrow Semialachee Lodge 239: 1995
• Received District Award of Merit – Boy Scouting: 1994
• Popcorn Sales Chairman – Boy Scouts: 1995 – 2002
• Service Committee Advisor, Order of the Arrow, Semialachee Lodge 239, Boy Scouts: 1997 – 2002
• Camping Promotions Committee Advisor – Boy Scouts, Order of the Arrow: 1996 – 1997

• Vice President – Seminole Co. High School Chorus Boosters: 1993 – 1995
• President – Seminole Co. High School Chorus Boosters: 1995 – 1999

MAVERICK TUBE:

• Safety Committee Member – 1995 - Present

AMERICAN LEGION POST 157:

• Member since 2000.