Celebrating Outdoor Writing Excellence: Steve Sorensen’s Achievements
RUSSELL, Pa. — In a noteworthy celebration of outdoor writing, Steve Sorensen, a familiar name in the realm of outdoor columns and contributions to regional and national magazines, stood out at the Mason-Dixon Outdoor Writers Association conference held recently in Hagerstown, Maryland. Sorensen’s impressive haul of awards — a first, a second, and a third place in the “Excellence in Craft” program — highlights not only his talent but also his dedication to the outdoor community.
Best Magazine Article: A Glimpse into History
Sorensen’s triumph began with the first-place award for “Best Magazine Article,” earned for his captivating piece titled “The Arthur Young Buck.” Published in Muzzle Blasts magazine in November 2024, this article recounts the gripping story of a historic trophy buck taken in McKean County, Pennsylvania, back in 1830. His ability to weave storytelling with historical context offers readers a unique perspective, bridging the past with present-day hunting culture.
The narrative pulls readers into the rich tapestry of local hunting lore, emphasizing the legacy of hunters who came before and the significance of tracking such an extraordinary creature. Sorensen has a knack for creating stories that are both informative and engaging, showcasing his passion for the outdoors.
Second Place Spotlight: The Toughest Neighborhood Around
The second award came for Sorensen’s engaging blog post “The Toughest Neighborhood Around,” which he shared on the websites of The Post-Journal and the Times Observer on June 1, 2024. This piece explores the rugged landscapes and vibrant ecosystems that define the local hunting experience, providing anecdotes and insights from his adventures in the region.
Readers resonated with Sorensen’s reflections on the challenges faced in the great outdoors, as well as the camaraderie and lessons learned along the way. His ability to connect personal experiences with broader themes of perseverance and respect for nature sets his writing apart in a crowded field.
Ethics in Outdoor Activities: A Third-Place Win
Finally, Sorensen captured third place in the “Outdoor Ethics and Sportsmanship” category with his article titled “No, He Didn’t Need Another Year,” published on November 30, 2024, in both The Post-Journal and the Times Observer. This article dives into the critical discourse around responsible hunting practices and the ethical dilemmas that hunters often confront.
Through this compelling narrative, Sorensen urges readers to reflect on their own hunting philosophies and the broader implications of their choices. His writing here serves not just to entertain but to educate, emphasizing the importance of vigilance in maintaining the delicate balance between sport and stewardship.
Dedication to Local Journalism
Amidst his accolades, Sorensen remains deeply appreciative of local newspapers. “I’m thankful for local newspapers, especially small-town newspapers. They might be the only general interest media that still covers hunting and outdoor topics for their readers. I want my writing to make them glad they do,” he remarked. This commitment underscores his belief in the vital role that local journalism plays in fostering community connections to nature and outdoor ethics.
Sorensen’s Broader Impact
Based in Russell, Pennsylvania, Sorensen continues to cultivate a diverse writing portfolio. He contributes regularly to outdoor magazines and maintains his personal blog, “Mission: Hunter.” Additionally, his newspaper column, The Everyday Hunter®, garners attention bi-weekly in both The Post-Journal and the Warren Times Observer.
For those interested in delving deeper into his work and outdoor insights, Sorensen invites readers to visit his website at www.EverydayHunter.com. Through his articulate storytelling and commitment to outdoor ethics, he inspires a new generation of hunters and nature enthusiasts, bridging the gap between tradition and modernity.
Steve Sorensen’s accolades are not just a testament to his skill but a reflection of his passion for the outdoors and dedication to sharing those experiences with a wider audience, making him a true asset to the field of outdoor writing.