--Submitted by AHEA member, Barry Hagan
Talladega Youth Hunt...A Memorable Experience!
November 10, 2007 Article

On November 10, 2007, Tatter Hill Hunting Club hosted a youth hunt. Eighteen adult supervisors included club members, friends, and Donald Holman, and Barry Hagan (AHEA Instructors) with Archie Linndley, (Instructor) and with  twelve youth hunters, all ready for a great day. The day began on a cool fall morning at 5 A.M. (before daylight). The youth hunters had slept little the night before, full of excitement, expectations, and wondering what the day would be like. As we all gathered to draw stands the youth hunters and adults fellowshipped with each other passing on stories of the past and future. As thoughts of the day ran through their young minds, the sun finally arose to began a memorable day that most will never forget. Barry Hagan spoke on gun safety, gun handling, when to shoot and when not to shoot, along with patience and ethics. He also told them that NO firearms were to be loaded until they got to their stands and were told it was ok by their supervising adult and UNLOAD them before leaving the stand. The hunters and supervisors left with only a cloud dust left in the roadway behind. At 10 A.M. all hunters were picked up and arrived at the pond. As they arrived food was sizzling on the grill. As typical hunters, the morning stories began. Several saw deer but couldn't get a good shot. Others saw no deer but did watch other wildlife such as birds, squirrels, rabbits, and even butterflies. These are future hunters and even at this young age, they all showed patience, respect, proper hunting methods, and ethics. Everyone sat down to hot dogs, chips, cookies, cake, and drinks. Jerry Fincher (an Alabama Game & Law Enforcement officer) was also on hand to answer any questions on laws and regulations, and  also to fellowship with everyone. We appreciate Jerry taking his personal time to help with such an awarding experience. Even though no deer were taken, we were able enjoy our natural resources, being outdoors on a beautiful  fall day  in Alabama, but mostly making memories with our youth of today and future hunters of tomorrow. Success can be measured in many different ways. In the minds of the youth and adults alike today was a complete success. We would like to especially thank  Tatter Hill hunting club and their members for making this event possible. Also Barry Hagan, Donald Holman, and Archie Lindley  whom are AHEA instructors for their time spent today and continuing hunter education in our area. The day came to an end with everyone safe and memories that will never be forgotten. Take advantage of Alabama's Youth Hunt and make a memory that will last a lifetime.