Jim was born and and raised on a family dairy farm in upstate New York. The rural life allowed him the time to enjoy hunting and fishing with his father and grandfather. He attended Arcade Central, was on the track and wrestling teams, and graduated in 1963. Jim immediatly enlisted into the Marine Corps. During his 4 year tour, he was stationed in DaNang, Viet Nam in 1966 and '67. He also served in the Army Reserves at the 98th Division Headquarters in Rochester, NY.

He is a Life Member of the NRA and North American Hunting Club and has memberships in National Wild Turkey Federation and Ducks Unlimited. He has been a New York State Hunter Education instructor and a mentor in NY State youth hunting programs.

Besides fishing, Jim is an avid sportsman who also enjoys hunting deer, turkey, waterfowl and small game. He bought 75 acres of farm land in Palmyra, NY, named it " Bear Hill Farm and Hunt Club" and is establishung enviromentally friendly habitat restoration projects.

He is married to Mary Lou, has two dauthters, two sons-in-laws, two grand sons and a grand dauther. Most of the family hunts the "Farm". He enjoys working and hunting with his gransdsons and instructing them in ethical sporting practices.

WWIA Associates are selected by the Founder based on their commitment and demonstrated potential in helping the WWIA accomplish its mission. All of these heroes are volunteers and exceptional men.