In This Issue: JOIN US at Inst. Conference, Regional Meetings & More
April is Going to be Nostalgic!
The day I arrived in Austin in January 1985, my new boss, Darrell Holt, said, "Hey, you want to come to an in-service workshop in Brownwood this weekend?" I didn't have any money and wasn't yet on board as Assistant Hunter Education Coordinator, so I jumped at the opportunity! Little did I know how important the Texas 4-H Center would become in my career at Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. We held many 'firsts' there including the first Texas Becoming an Outdoors-Woman workshop in 1993, when I 'first' worked with Christine Thomas (see below), founder of National BOW Program, University of Wisconsin, Stevens Point. We held more Hunter Education training workshops and conferences at the 4-H Center than any other venue in the State, including all six workshops that garnered the coveted NRA & NAAHSC Academy Patch (72 total hours of weekend trainings: 1) Program Orientation & Teaching Skills, 2) Rifles, Shotguns & Handguns, 3) Archery & Muzzleloading, 4) Wildlife Management & Conservation, 5) Ethics, Game Laws & Responsibility and 6) Survival & Wilderness First Aid). These were held each year, most at the 4-H Center, so instructors had could have the opportunity to make the trek. This month we will conduct back-to-back-to-back events there, beginning with Becoming an Outdoors-Woman 30th Celebration & Workshop (April 21-23), Conservation Leaders for Tomorrow's Hunting for Conservation (April 25-26) and THEIA Hunter Education Instructor Conference & Awards Ceremony (April 27-30)! JOIN US at the 4-H Center - a 'nostalgic' facility on Lake Brownwood!
Note: Any Target Talk reader wanting an Academy Patch & 'Volunteer' Rocker' for his/her collection, email your mailing address to me at steve.hall@tpwd.texas.gov.
Happy, SAFE Turkey Seasons - Gobble Gobble, tuk tuk tuk phhhttt!
Steve Hall, Hunter Education Coordinator
|
 Bobbie June Peterson, Killeen, accepted one of her six NAAHSC Academy certificates for attending the Ethics, Game Laws & Responsibility Workshop in January 1986 at the Texas 4-H Center.
Back to top
Texas 4-H Conference Center, on Lake Brownwood
5600 FM 3021, Brownwood, TX 76801
April 28th - 30th - Annual THEIA Hunter Education Instructor Conference
REGISTER TODAY! See Registration & Agenda at following LINK:
https://texastheia.org/hunter-education-conference-2023/
 Back to top
Christine Thomas - Keynote Speaker
Emeritus Dean and Professor
College of Natural Resources, UWSP
Christine Thomas served as dean and professor of resource management at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point College of Natural Resources until her retirement in 2020. In addition to her role as a university educator, Thomas developed the Becoming an Outdoors Woman program, designed to teach women outdoor skills. Thomas has a B.S. in biology from Central Michigan University, an M.S. in Water Resources from the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point, and a Ph.D. in Land Resources from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. MORE HERE
|
 John Karger, Executive Director, Last Chance Forever, a Non-profit, Birds of Prey Conservancy, and his assistant, Kelly Rayner have attended many BOW workshops and all 18 Texas Wildlife Expos. They will, once again, fly their raptors as a special showing on Friday for attendees at the BOW Workshop. Don't miss it!
Back to Top
Southeast Texas - George R. Brown Convention Center, Houston
Held in conjunction with SCF Worldwide Hunting Expo and Convention
"Many thanks to Houston Safari Club Foundation (HSCF) for their continued support of the Texas Hunter Education program!" said Heidi Rao, SE TX Hunter Ed Specialist, "After a program update, there were a lot of questions and comments to clarify team teaching, and how to properly report the Texas Hunter Education Program Online Registration System (ORS). Hunting 101s were presented and attendees were encouraged to present and offer these advanced hunter education courses within their communities. Instructors liked the new “Outreach Events Form” reporting feature on their dashboards. It was great seeing everyone and watching them share ideas, suggestions, and connect and reconnect with each other with big plans for more classes and training opportunities together."
 L to R (Standing) Kristin Collins - The Woodlands, Ron Martin - Pearland, Bruce Rutkowski - La Vernia, James 'Kevin' Oliver - San Antonio, Thomas Griffith - Schertz, Jeffrey Hetrick - San Antonio, Duke Walton - Porter, George Lentz - La Vernia, Kitty Haynes - Richmond, James Davis - Pasadena, Felicia Davis - Spring, Christopher Martinez - Houston, Jamie Haynes - Richmond, Laurie Aubin - Deer Park, Larry Hysmith - TX AgriLife Extension - College Station, and Clyde McMeans, Jr. - Bellaire. (Kneeling) Heidi Rao - SE TX Hunter Ed Specialist, David Laney - Spring, John Polasek, Ivan Benavides & Ivan Benavides Jr. - Pasadena, and Tom Stashak, Jr. - Pearland. (Front) Monica Bickerstaff - N TX Hunter Ed Specialist, and Danny Odom - Orange
North Texas - Athens Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center
North Texas Hunter Education Instructors gathered on Saturday, March 4th at Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center (TFFC) in Athens for the region’s annual program update. After welcoming words from TPWD TFFC Director, Tom Lang, and Event Coordinator, Katie Birk, a total of 23 attendees listened intently as TPWD Wildlife Biologist, Heidi Kryger shared her "View from a Deer Check Station: A Biologist’s Take on Strange, Interesting, Funny, and Gross Things Encountered at a TPWD Check Station". Instructors received program updates, then took a tour of the skills trail that Instructor, Travis Tidwell, a TPWD employee, conducts in his Hunter Education courses held on the grounds. Instructors also enjoyed a tram tour of the center, and caught a glimpse of a few of the 2023 ShareLunker’s.
 Back Row (L to R) Andrew Lewis, Patrick Welborne, Steven Estes, Debra Ferrell - THEIA President, Charlie Preslar Jr., Bob Barnette - TYHP Field Director, Mike Maiden, Leslie Dockery, and David Milam.
Middle Row (L to R) Elijah Basnett, Monica Bickerstaff - N TX Hunter Ed Training Specialist, Jeanette Hammonds,Tom Hudson, Sue Snowden, Kevin Dockery, James Russell, and Larry C. Patterson.
Front Row (L to R) Travis Tidwell, Michael Malone, Jose Garcia, Frank Horak Sr, David Hammonds, and Charles Snowden Jr.
 TPWD Biologist, Heidi Kryger, included a discussion about Chronic Wasting Disease "CWD - Things to Know and Pass Along to Students".
South Texas - San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo
Central/South TX Instructors met March 11th in San Antonio with Brock Minton, S TX Hunter Education Specialist and host, Area Chief, Jeff Hetrick, and the rest of the San Antonio Rodeo teaching contingent and Area Chiefs. Topics included "Where We've Been -- Where We Are -- Where We're Headed" (e.g., R3 program and model; ORS; IHEA-USA; SAR; NASP; TYHP, BOW; Firearm & Hunting 101’s, and Opportunities for Hunting in Texas).
 L to R: Are Chiefs, Charles Marcus and Paul Silva; Kimon Wood; Larry Arnold; Dayna Cramer; Nathan Dee; Area Chiefs Rick Hite, Jeff Hetrick; Kirk McClelland, David Rios and (Kelly) and George Lentz; Susan Rios; Thomas Griffin; and Area Chief, Ken Lewis. As you can tell, South Texas/San Antonio have many active Area Chiefs -- demonstrating a high commitment to the cause! Thanks!
South Texas - Estero Llano Grande State Park
Brock Minton, S TX Hunter Education Specialist, held a second South Texas Instructor's Meeting a week earlier on March 4th, at the state park in Deep South Texas. Hosted by the "Pied Pipers" Area Chiefs, Ruben Rangel, Brownsville, and Junior Munoz, Austwell, who both used to work for Texas Parks and Wildlife, the meeting boasted drawings for a free concealed handgun course, deer hunt and fishing trip, courtesy of Munoz. In addition, Rangel cooked up 'Carne Asada' and sides, a delicious lunch for the participants. Discussions focused on future plans and training ideas, R3 strategies, and instructor needs in the Rio Grande Valley.
 L to R: Ricardo Orozco; Junior Munoz; Jose Garza; Samuel Green; Bonita Green; Wilford Shriver; Samantha Stillman; Delores Rocha; Fernando Rocha; Ruben Rangel. L to R below, the lucky winners of the door prizes were: 1) Bonita Green, joined by her son, Samuel, who won a concealed carry course which she plans to give to her instructor daughter, Shelby (when she turns 21), 2) Ricardo Orozco, who won the deer hunt, and 3) Wilford Shriver, who will go fishing with "fish whisperer" Munoz. "THANKS to all for a great meeting!" said Minton.
West Texas - San Angelo State Park
"Even with tornadoes on the ground and severe weather in the big country, Area Chief, Jimmy (and Shannon) Caughron - Ballinger, and Terry and Gail Hall - Happy, made the drive to San Angelo SP for the West Texas Regional Instructor's meeting," said Randy Spradlin, W TX Hunter Education Specialist. "Most instructors chose to take advantage of the online opportunity to participate including Shawn Shreves, Area Chief, Jeff Srygley - Amarillo, Monica Spradlin - Ft. Worth, Area Chiefs, Kathy and Gary Glass - Eola, and Pete Warsaw - Midland." He added, "The overwhelming excitement from the attendees focused on the continued reduction in hunting accidents and fatalities. Several were currently conducting Hunting 101 workshops. The others agreed getting more hands-on training and exposure for novice hunters is a must! Overall, it was an enjoyable evening getting to see the instructors, even if via computer screen. The long-distance award went to the Hall family for their travels from Happy in the Panhandle."
 San Angelo State Park was the site of an Instructor Course in early March. L to R: David Driskell, Tara Fattouh, and Butch Street. Not pictured: Jose R, Charles Harris, Garrett J. Welcome to the ranks of Texas Hunter Education Instructors!
Central Texas - Boswell-Porter 4-H Shotgun Range, Snook, Texas
 Morgan Harbison, Central TX Hunter Education Specialist, reported on the meeting saying, "Some of the requests from the instructors included: 1) an instructor shirt with logo, like in Angler Education, 2) more social media support and 3) using Hunter Education courses to reach a broader audience. The also requested 4) access to game processing workshop equipment and 5) assistance in finding locations to host courses."
He added, "Thoughts on vision for Hunter Education the next 50 years included: 1) increasing hunting opportunities, 2) dispelling misinformation about hunting and target shooting, 3) increasing compliance to hunting laws, 4) enhancing public understanding of shooting sports and firearm safety, 5) maintaining safe hunters who obey game and hunting laws, and 6) educating the public on the importance of hunting in conservation. Most are willing to teach or put on a Hunting 101 -- given approved lesson plans, supplies and access to equipment."
NOTE: Instructors in all regions: Given that needs such as access to Hunting 101 curricula and equipment and finding places to teach are the responsibility of each of your regional specialists (see Contact List & Resources towards the bottom of each Target Talk), please get with them to fulfill these needs in each of your regions. Other needs/issues are addressed at the state level, such as instructor shirts, social media support and reaching broader audiences. Thanks for the thoughtful ideas!
 Central Texas Instructors included Greg White - Manchaca, Rick Warren - Snook, Area Chief, Vincent Lecca - Driftwood, Kirk Glasby - Cameron, and Area Chief, Luis Upton - Seguin, joined Harbison for shooting sports following the meeting.
Back to Top
2021 Bowhunter Education Instructor of the Year - Doug Lambert - Burleson
N TX Hunter Education Specialist Monica Bickerstaff presents Doug Lambert the first ever "Bowhunter Education Instructor of the Year" award. Lambert became a Bowhunter Education instructor in 2008. His focus being solely on Bowhunter Education, Lambert has shared his passion with more than 1700 students including many fortunate to be drawn to hunt on the Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge, Grayson County.
|
2021 North Texas Instructor of the Year - James Russell, Dennison
Jim became a Hunter Education instructor in 1994 and a Bowhunter Education instructor in 2000. As an Area Chief, Russell enthusiastically shares his passion for teaching assisting N TX Hunter Education Specialist Monica Bickerstaff in conducting new instructor courses in the Denison area. Russell’s years of dedication earned him the shotgun gift card award level (3500 points) in 2020. He is well on his way to joining numerous other dedicated instructors in the TX Hunter Education Hall of Fame.
|
Back to Top
Game Wardens Recently Honored
Congratulations to Montgomery County Game Warden, Brannon Meinkowsky, for receiving the 2002 SEAFWA Officer of the Year, as presented by Arch Beaver Aplin, III TPWD Commission Chairman (L), and TPWD Executive Director, David Yaskowitz, Ph.D.
At the same commission meeting, the chairman and executive director, along with other dignitaries from TPWD and Shikar Safari Club, presented Wilbarger County Game Warden, Dyke McMahen, with the Shikar Safari Officer of the Year.
"Nominated by their supervisors for outstanding service in the line of duty, both officers share a passion for conservation, youth outreach, hunter education and criminal investigation." was reported in the public release. These two are certainly representative of TPWD Game Wardens, who all represent Hunter Education!
|
Hunter Education Course - Hunter Ed Instructor, Charlie Preslar - Garland, sent this photo of a recent course that he and Game Warden, Benny Richards, Lone Star Law regular, held at Bass Pro in Garland. Thanks Charlie and Benny!
DIVA WOW Spring Clinic 2023 - Elm Fork Shooting Sports
Charlie Preslar - Garland, also helped out at the DIVA Women Outdoors Worldwide along with fellow Resource/NRA/Hunter Education Instructors, Joel Ketonen, Rick Johnson - Anna, Paul Benson, and Frank Horak – Irving Below, Charlie shows off the targets shot by some of the DIVA Participants at the muzzleloader station. Preslar reported that there were over 100 participants in a variety of target shooting sports including rifle, handgun, shotgun and muzzleloader. Congrats to all!
Area Chief Hunter Education Instructor, Jose Garcia - Irving, presents Jeff Lee of Lee's Gun Parts with a Certificate of Appreciation for repairing the bolt on a .22 caliber, orange inert rifle that used in their Hunter Education Courses -- NO Charge!!!
If you would like to show your support of your hunter education program sponsors, landowners, hosts, and businesses or organizations, please email Kevin Vo at Kevin.vo@tpwd.texas.gov. Thanks Jose! Keep up the great work!
|
Back to Top
TURKEY HUNTING 101
Brock Minton, S TX Hunter Education Specialist, once again, hosted a Turkey Hunting 101 in Whitsett. Joining Minton were instructors, Area Chiefs, Junior Munoz - Austwell, and Ruben Rangel - Brownsville, who, along with Immanuel Salas, R3 Hunting & Shooting Sports Coordinator, demonstrated types of turkey calls and vocalizations, as well as types of blinds, decoys, and importance and use of camouflage clothing and proper set up. Naturally, the 101 instructors also reviewed such topics as turkey hunting safety, applicable laws, and ethics. TPWD District Wildlife Biologist, David Veale, presented turkey biology, habitat, and proper identification, along with TPWD turkey restoration efforts.
The participants reconvened after lunch to participate in shotgun patterning and subtending exercises (use of barrel width to judge distances), along with discussions of proper shot selection and placement. After the afternoon sessions, participants were selected to go turkey hunting Saturday afternoon and Sunday morning. Weather was wet and cold. Many flocks of turkey were seen, but none responded to calls or decoys. The guides suspected that this year, it was a little early for active mating responses. "Special thanks to landowner, Kevin Bensmiller, the Whitsett Volunteer Fire Department (classroom), David Veale, landowner host and Area Chief HE Instructor, Benny Ham, Junior Munoz, Ruben Rangel, and Immanuel Salas for making it a successful workshop and hunts!", said Minton.
|
 L to R: Alexis Baker; Thomas Baker; Doris Baker; Beau Baker; Area Chief HE Instructor, Junior Munoz; Aaron Gross; Justin Gross; Lucas Lane; Brock Minton, S TX Hunter Education Specialist; Mario Contreras; Area Chief, Area Chief HE Instructor, Ruben Rangel; Immanuel Salas - TPWD R3 Hunting and Shooting Sports Coordinator; Mauricio Gonzales; and Brent Coates.
HOG HUNTING 101 on Eric Morris's N.onT.ypical Outdoorsman TV
Cheyenne Matthews, a new hunter with Primary Arms, took her first wild hog during the taping of N.onT.ypical Outdoorsman TV with host, Eric Morris, a Texas Hunter Education Instructor when he was stationed at Fort Hood. Special thanks to Mike Winot, owner of Why Not? Ranch, and Ty Tipton, ranch manager, for hosting the hunt. Along with Cheyenne, was industry representative hunter, Vince McElhaney with Shady Oaks Gun Range near Austin. The others also were brand new to the experience and included Central Texas hunters, Barbara Woodworth and Kevin Steele. Guides for the hunt included TPWD's Outreach Manager, Kendrick Gray and R3 Hunting and Shooting Sports Coordinator, Immanuel Salas, along with partners, Meg and George Blitch, Map My Ranch, and Jim Curcuruto, Stewards of Conservation.
|
 Eric Morris (R), Producer & Host of N.onT.ypical Outdoorsman TV poses with the Hog Hunting group at the Why Not? Ranch near Rockdale. L to R: Ahmaya Edwards/Pro Staff, Meg Blitch, Vince McElhaney, George Blitch, Cheyenne Matthews, Kendrick Gray, Barbara Woodworth, Kevin Steele, Immanuel Salas, Jim Curcuruto, Steve Hall - TPWD Hunter Education Coordinator, and Eric.
Jim Curcuruto (L) and George Blitch (R), join Jesse Griffiths, Owner of Dai Due Restaurant in Austin, Texas. The restaurant is unique "farm-to-table fare from locally sourced ingredients served in a rustic space with a butcher shop." Jesse has cooked for many Deer Hunting 101 & Mentor Hunts at Inks Lake State Park. He and his staff cooked up four yummy dishes featured on the show -- a culmination of a memorable hog hunt and outdoor experience for new hunters! A big THANKS to Jesse; Jim for coordinating; and George for guiding and sponsoring.
|
Hunt and Target Shooting Sport Mentors, Immanuel Salas - TPWD R3 Coordinator, and Jena Bailey - TPWD Infrastructure Division Analyst, take new hunters Kevin Steele and Barbara Woodworth (L) through sighting in exercises at the Lone Star Range near Austin, prior to the new hunters being featured on N.onT.ypical Outdoorsman TV at the Why Not? Ranch. They learned about hog anatomy, vital zones, proper shooting equipment & techniques. Way to go -- way to prepare!
|
GAME PROCESSING 101 - Cabela's - Fort Worth
As originally published in the March Target Talk, Randy Spradlin, W TX Hunter Education Specialist, Monica Spradlin, HE Instructor, and Brock Minton, S TX Hunter Education Specialist, along with Area Chiefs, Kathy and Gary Glass - Eola, and THEIA President, Debbie Ferrell, put on a Game Processing 101 Workshop at the Ft. Worth Cabela's.
Wild Game Processing & Cooking 101s attract a lot of new customers such as locavores/foodies and are popular course offerings for instructors wanting to reach more Texans. Please get with your regional specialists (see Staff Contacts below), if you would like to conduct a species- or method-specific workshop in your area. All it takes is passion with your hunting and/or target shooting expertise, timing (e.g., right before hunting seasons) and setting it up on ORS (just like with basic courses). You have the option to charge $15 and retain $10 (just like with student courses), or you can offer Hunting 101s for FREE!
 L to R - Front: Kathy Glass, M. Chabot, D. Voxuan, A. Baez, C. Baez, Debbie Ferrell, Middle: S. Lee, J. Gray, C. Riley, S. Palmer, M. Spradlin, Back: Gary Glass, E. Lenhart, J. Lewis, M. DePalma, D. Boston, Brock Minton
Back to Top
Youth Hunter Education Challenge (YHEC) May 20th - Arlington Sportsman's
Texas North YHEC will be held Saturday, May 20 (8 am - 7 pm), at the Arlington Sportsman’s Club (ASC) in Mansfield. YHEC is a National Rifle Association - sanctioned event. This year’s challenges will be Shotgun, .22 Rifle, Archery, Wildlife Identification, Safety Trail, and Orienteering. Olympic -style medals will be awarded for 1st - 3rd places. High score Senior and reserve Senior, high score Junior and reserve Junior, and the 'Sportsmanship' winner will be awarded belt buckles. Youth who participate in a local or state YHEC may go on to compete in the Regional YHEC in Bentonville, AR, in July.
"We will need VOLUNTEERS! If you or someone you know can help this year, please let us know (Jeanette Hammonds mrdavidhammonds@att.net) . Volunteers should plan on arriving at 7am and stay through their assigned competition. Lunch will be provided to all volunteers. If you know youths (Ages 9 -14 Juniors; Ages 15-18 Seniors) who are interested in competing, please give them my email address. I will send them an application and the rules. Cost for TX N YHEC is $50 (includes competition, lunch and a t-shirt). Extra lunches may be ordered for family members for $10, or families are welcome to bring their own food. PLEASE LET YOUTH KNOW THAT THEY MUST COMPLETE HUNTER EDUCATION TO COMPETE.
Register for courses at: HUNTER EDUCATION CLASSROOM COURSES
Jeanette Hammonds, Weatherford
 Back to Top
On March 22nd and 23rd, Texas held its 17th Annual National Archery in Schools Program (NASP) Tournament at the Bell County Expo Center with 3,250 participants in the International-style archery bullseye tournament and 1,100 in the IBO 3-D Challenge. Thanks to Travis Glick, the new TPWD NASP Coordinator, for coordinating the largest-ever event of its kind in Texas! Travis took over for longtime coordinator and champion, Burnie Kessner - Athens (retired), who made it back to the tournament to bridge the transition and to watch his son, Lee (L) shoot in the tournament and hang out with Athens Elementary teammates, John Anderson, and Charlie Horn. Congratulations to all schools, coaches and archery shooters who participated in NASP in 2023!
Braden Richter, Faith Christian Academy, Wharton is shown here using his mouth tab during the IBO 3-D Challenge. His coach, Audrey Frankum, also shared a video showing Braden shooting his shotgun by propping his right arm as a platform to hold the shotgun, then loading, and firing from his left shoulder. Heidi Rao, SE Hunter Education Specialist, said, "He's an amazing young man, and he made scoring marks on all of his 3D targets -- 8s, 9s, and 10s!". She added, "AND he was loading his bow and shooting faster than those around him. He was amazing to watch!"
|
NASP/IBO 3-D Challenge
With the help of TPWD Hunter Education Staff Members (L to R, below) Monica Bickerstaff, Randy Spradlin, Heidi Rao, Brock Minton and Morgan Harbison, the International Bowhunting Organization's Joel & Christie Zimmer - Mexico, Missouri, filled in for longtime coordinator, Ryan Bass, Vice President and Director NASP/IBO 3D - Covington, GA, who helped set up, but had to bow during the challenge out due to illness. Thanks for to IBO for providing the Challenge for Texas archers -- You guys are the best!
|
 Back to Top
Photo: Brayden with his first duck harvest taken on TPWD public land.
When young Brayden Moran signed up for 4-H he had no idea of the possibilities that were ahead of him. Since his inauguration he has been able to participate in club activities, shooting sports, hunters education, club meetings and is awaiting a much-anticipated trip to 4-H night at NASA. As a club officer, he helps other students get engaged in the organization and is showing leadership skills that only come naturally for some. Texas Parks and Wildlife Department has had a long standing relationship with the Texas AgriLife Extension Service 4-H Shooting Sports and Natural Resource Programs. Every year thousands of 4-H youth get to participate in several outdoor activities like hunter education, National Archery in Schools Program as well as a variety of youth hunts. Brayden took advantage of one of those opportunities when he participated in a special field course for 4-H members. Club manager and Texas Hunter Education instructor, James Bateman, offers sponsored Hunter Education Courses to any active member of 4H. “It’s just my way of trying to get and keep kids on track. There are so many negative things in the world today and every kid needs a connection with something good. TPWD and 4H offer just that!” says James. He added, “I appreciate the connection that I can make with the kids in class. I encourage them to keep in touch and use me as a resource for when questions come up in the field. I remind them to never stop learning. When I get pictures of them and their harvest, especially their first harvest, well that’s just a bonus!” More information about Texas 4H and their partnership with Texas Parks and Wildlife Department can be found on their website a their Shooting Sports page.
|
Back to Top
 2023 Colorado Big Game Draw Application Deadline Quickly Approaching
Hunters are encouraged to submit your applications early to avoid complications or delays. Prepare ahead so that if problems do arise, Colorado Parks and Wildlife staff members have ample time to assist you. This year's application deadline is Tuesday, April 4 at 8:00 p.m. Mountain Time (MT).
2023 Colorado Outdoors Annual Preference Point Issue (Online Edition) Get the critical information that will help you apply for 2023 Colorado big-game limited licenses for deer, elk, pronghorn, bear, moose, sheep, and goat.
Back to Top
The 2023 International Hunter Education Association's (IHEA-USA) Annual Conference is shaping up to be an amazing event. Don’t forget that as a volunteer hunter education instructor, your IHEA-USA membership is paired (at no extra cost) with your ability to attend our upcoming conference in Boise, Idaho, virtually. Recorded sessions will be available if you are unable to watch live.
 Back to Top
EAST ALTON, IL (March 15, 2023) — Shoot United™ is announcing 20-plus events in 2023 that will be held at shooting ranges throughout the United States, with the focus of introducing participants to the shooting sports and responsible firearm education. Each event provides individuals an opportunity to learn and ask questions of knowledgeable firearm instructors in a welcoming environment, have fun with friends and family, and receive a supportive hands-on experience.
“Shoot United range events are designed to attract people who would like to take the first step in learning about firearms at their own pace” said Jason Gilbertson, director of marketing for Shoot United. “We’re partnering with some outstanding ranges and educated trainers to create experiences that are turnkey. The opportunities through the range event program are an extremely important component of Shoot United.” Whether you’re a new firearm owner, thinking about purchasing your first firearm, or looking to try out a new experience with friends and family, be sure to sign up for an upcoming Shoot United event.
Texas Ranges that are interested in hosting a Shoot United event can reach out to media@shootunited.com. For more information on upcoming Shoot United events or to sign up for the newsletter, visit ShootUnited.com. Or join us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, or YouTube.
 Back to Top
The "Ole Field & Streamer"
Jan. 17, 1938 – March 9, 2023
Obituary
Marty Malin - Laredo, Hunter Education Instructor from 1990 thru 2004 and longtime outdoor writer/humorist, has passed. Malin was named the 2017 recipient of the coveted L.A. Wilke Award, the highest honor given by the Texas Outdoor Writers Association. The L.A. Wilke Award is given to members who have served TOWA and their profession with honor and distinction. TOWA is made up of communication professionals who promote hunting, fishing, other outdoor recreational activities and conservation through radio, television, newspapers, magazines, art and the internet. Malin was past president of TOWA and served as president of the Outdoor Writers Association of America. He was an accomplished storyteller who entertained generations through media that included writing, video, audio and public speaking.
Steve Hall, Hunter Education Coordinator, had the pleasure of Marty's friendship, teaching with Marty at hunter education summer camps, along with their friend and fellow Instructor, Tom Martine - Cypress Mill. Hall said, "Marty was a great guy and fun to teach with -- he provided the fun and anecdotes along with knowing his stuff when it came to the outdoors!". He added, "I will miss Marty, especially his wit!" A graveside service was held for Marty in Spicewood on March 21st.
Marty was featured in Austin Woods & Waters (AWW) (see link below), when he came and spoke with many of his friends and members. Rest in Peace, Marty!
https://austinwoodsandwaters.org/resources/Documents/Feb.pdf
|
Back to Top
Administrative Staff Contact:
512-389-4999 - General Hotline
Email Support: Instructor@tpwd.texas.gov
Kevin Vo - 512-389-8142
kevin.vo@tpwd.texas.gov
Please contact your regional staff member (see below) for assistance, especially questions regarding the Online Registration System and setting up or closing out your courses! If your regional staff specialist is not available, feel free to contact Kevin Voin Austin -- or to just say "HELLO!"
|
 Steve Hall, Austin: steve.hall@tpwd.texas.gov; 512-389-8140 w; 512-550-7330 c
Morgan Harbison, Caldwell: morgan.harbison@tpwd.texas.gov; 512-413-0194
Heidi Rao, Houston: heidi.rao@tpwd.texas.gov; 713-829-1377 c
Monica Bickerstaff, D/FW: monica.bickerstaff@tpwd.texas.gov; 469-601-8349 c
Randy Spradlin, Abilene: randy.spradlin@tpwd.texas.gov; 512-923-3509 c
Brock Minton, Corpus Christi: brock.minton@tpwd.texas.gov; 361-944-3617 c
TPWD & Texas Hunter Education Partner Resources
Hunter Education Overview | Instructor Resources | Student Resources
Operation Game Thief | Texas Game Warden Association
Texas Youth Hunting Program | Texas 4-H Shooting Sports
Other Hunter Ed Resources
International Hunter Education Association | NRA PROGRAMS & Services
NSSF Hunting & Ranges | Texas Hunter Education Instructor Association
Texas State Rifle Association | Hunters Connect
|
