It's not often you get to see a giraffe in these parts, but on Saturday the Fortson's Taxidermy exhibit created a display of exotic African wildlife and a lot of interest for guests.
Children stared wide-eyed in amazement at the bobcat and giraffe at the Fortson's exhibit.
African born Rob Fortson owns the business, located in Robinson. Now a Texan, Fortson enjoys his hunting and his work.
"To me, taxidermy is more than just throwing tanned skin on a form and pushing it out the door. Taxidermy is an art," Fortson said.
Passion mixed with creativity and talent is the difference between average taxidermy and something you'll be proud to show off for years to come, he said.
Another popular exhibit was the Association for Pet Adoption Center, APAC. This group of people work in the Temple area to promote the welfare and humane care of domestic animals, promote spaying and neutering of pets to cut down on the number of unwanted pets in our community, and educate citizens on the responsibilities of pet ownership.
The non-profit organization also has spay/neuter vouchers for low-income individuals and families.
It took just three minutes to have a free back check at the Advanced Chiropractic exhibit. The Temple business promotes healthy living.
Dr. Jeffrey Schels from the clinic encourages outdoor activities and sensible eating habits.
John Williamson from Belton enjoyed the ever-popular rattlesnake exhibit.
"If I am going to come across one of these things I prefer it to be just like this - at least 6 feet away and unable to get near me," Williamson said. "They are fascinating to watch though."
Kids had the opportunity to shoot a bow and arrow at targets. James Dibble, 8, of Temple enjoyed the opportunity to use the equipment.
"You have to be very strong and have muscles to use the bow and arrow," James said. "It's a lot of fun but I liked climbing the rock wall more. You have to have strong arms and legs for that."
Salado was represented by the Prairie Dell Meat Co. Located on Solana Ranch Road, the business is open from the first week of bow season to the last weekend of rifle season for all hunting meat processing.
The company aligns with Salado Creek Outfitters and Solana Ranch to host the Bell County Youth Big Buck contest. Participants must be 17 years or younger to compete for the biggest buck. Applications can be picked up at Salado Creek Outfitters, 518 N. Robertson Road.
The U.S. Army Corp of Engineers booth had every conceivable piece of information on safe boating in Lake Belton and other Texas lakes.
Jan Ellis of Killeen gathered pamphlets on safety hints after having purchased a boat this past summer.
"We are novices and the lakes can be very dangerous if you are not armed with safety information," she said. "I am still amazed at how many people will drink while boating and not wear life jackets. The lake is a beautiful place to relax and enjoy the views, but safety must come first."
Women in the Outdoors is a group that started in 1998 when the National Wild Turkey Federation recognized a need. The group hosts an event every year in June at the Solon Ranch in Salado for women to participate in workshops such as fly fishing, outdoor cooking, bird watching and archery.
Jean Miller of Temple plans to get involved in the activities provided next year.
"I have always been busy raising the children and now that they have their own families it would be nice to do something for myself and learn something new," Miller said. "I do love the outdoors and enjoy walking so hiking with other women sharing my interests would be a lot of fun."
