Wednesday August 20, 2008

Ah, summer is beginning to wind down and the evenings are starting to become cooler. Fall is just around the corner...and that means HUNTING SEASON is almost here!!! I can hardly wait for it to arrive. South Carolina's deer season is already in and I have seen several nice whitetails in full velvet that have been taken so far. Hopefully, our deer season will produce some nice trophies.

A couple weeks ago, the North Carolina Taxidermist Association (NCTA) held our annual convention in Burlington. I had a great time catching up with my friends from around the state. I learned several new tips and techniques that are certain to improve the quality of my taxidermy. As usual, I entered the competition. I received two second place ribbons in the professional division for a pair of buffleheads. I also won a blue ribbon and Best of Category in the professional division with a flying ringneck duck. This is the second year in a row that I have won the professional division bird category at the state show. I have earned enough points to receive the NCTA Award of Excellence in birds. This means I have reached the Masters level in bird taxidermy, a feat of which I am very proud. These competitions I have entered have taught me so much about taxidermy and have helped my work improve tremendously. I am very thankful for all the judges that have given me critiques on my work and the other competitors that have challenged me to do my best.

The last subject of this entry is about hunting in Africa. Yep, that's right, an African safari is in my future. I am tentatively planning to visit the Dark Continent in May, June, or July of 2010. I would like to have scheduled it for 2009, but I will be attending the World Taxidermy Championships in St. Charles, MO next spring and will not be able to get away from the shop for 3 weeks so close together. I am opening this trip up to my clients and their friends and family. If you have any interest in hunting African plains game, I would love to talk with you about the trip I am planning and see if we can go together. The outfitter/PH I am leaning towards has an outstanding reputation for service and getting great trophies for their hunters. If you are interested, or just want more information, shoot me an email or give me a call. This safari will be comparable in price to a hunt in the western US for mule deer/antelope combo and it includes 5 trophy animals. More hunting days and animals can be added if you desire.

Well, that's it for now. I hope everyone has a great rest of the summer.