Pennsylvania Taxidermist Association

     I spent this morning sitting in a duck blind with a good friend on Presque Isle. (You're probably all thinking Presque Isle is right in Paul Czarnecki's backyard so he must have been hunting wil Paul — Nope! Paul is in Kansas whitetail hunting — it's the blind that Paul was drawn for though — so my buddy Lance & I went duck hunting -- thanks Paul.) Anyhow, we watched several hundred Canada gees flying around then landing in the middle of the bay — safe from the swarms of steel shot. The ducks did the same — flying high or staying out of range of all the blinds set up around the shores. We drank hot coffee from our thermos, scalding our mouths with the first swallows and then just a few minutes later finishing a cup of iced coffee. We discussed politics, the weather, wind direction & speed, wind chill, decoy placement, guns, shot sizes, shared sandwiches and shivered together against the wind.
     My experience with the PTA has been very similar going back 13 years. I remember well the feelings Becky & I had as we unloaded my first competition mounts at the Lancaster Host. Two great PTA members (Terry Gill & Gene Duckworth) welcomed us and eased our apprehension during that first show — making us feel part of the PTA family. I also remember the anticipation we had obout our "scores" and peeking through the windows to see if there were any ribbons on those pieces. Then there was the whole awards banquet experience — sitting on pins & needles — at the same table with a seasoned competitor (Ross Moon) and having my named called for Best of Category. WOW!
     We'll soon be at another convention — friendships will be made, old friendships rekindled, new stories told & old stories retold. People will be peeking through the windows anticipating their awards. Some will be surprised at their accoomplishments and some disappointed. Most everyone will learn something, create memories and friendships will be formed. That's what it's all about — family & friends — and being able to watch the sun rise on a new day. I look forward to seeing everyone again in Altoona.