Choices...Choices...Choices...Talk about Decision 2000!
46 Fabulous Seminars are Lined Up!

Seminar 1
Competition Fish Body Carving
Instructor: Dan Rinehart
Noted as a fish expert that has won most all of the major awards, Dan will demonstrate his techniques for producing competition quality mounts through detailed body carvings. Dan will cover both warm and coldwater species with special emphasis on bass and trout. When you see his easy methods of carving you will understand how the proper anatomy causes the fish mount to go together so simply. (Sponsored by Whitetail Specialists)

Seminar 2
Form Alterations
Instructor: Ken Walker
Learn the tricks of a Master who has won it all--numerous times! Ken specializes in realistic poses of animals that many times you can't find forms for. From opening the mouth on a closed mouth form to changing leg positions, head angle, or body attitude, Ken will show you how to make the alterations to help you produce more realistic and award winning mounts.

Seminar 3
Special "Hands On" Seminar-Setting Whitetail Deer Eyes
Instructor: Don Holt
Don Holt will be instructing this seminar on setting whitetail deer eyes. Each participant will have a change-out whitetail head, eye, and clay to work with. Please bring your favorite modeling tools. Don will explain the basics and then he and other deer head specialists will walk around to offer individualized and personal instruction and advice. You are free to take your completed head home with you to use as future reference. There is no charge to attend this special seminar, but since seating is limited, you must pre-register. (Sponsored by Van Dyke's)

Seminar 4
Mounting African Game
Instructor: Bob Sanders
If African work is your pleasure and the quest for the perfect mount is your goal, then make it a point to attend this seminar. Bob will cover all the basics from beginning to end by showing you how to mount your African game using his informative and creative techniques. This seminar will definitely enhance your African work. (Sponsored by Jonas Supply)

Seminar 5
Mounting a Pheasant
Instructor: Danny Owens
Danny is a talented artist who has won awards for his bird work. He has proven his award winning status and will share all phases of bird taxidermy from skinning to mounting. Danny will express the importance of eye, wing, and leg positioning. If you are a serious game bird taxidermist or even a beginner, this is the seminar for you. His simple methods will help you speed up your work as well as improve your mounts. As an added treat, this seminar mounted pheasant will be auctioned off at our auction.

Seminar 6
Adhesives
Instructor: Steve Steinbring
For many years Steve Steinbring and Newton Supplies have been working with innovative glues and adhesives in the field of woodworking and furniture. Reinventing a new formula for taxidermists and easy techniques to incorporate these into taxidermy is a successful goal that has been met. Covering all aspects in the world of adhesives, Steve will explain the use of these products and incorporate them into a whitetail mounting demonstration by George Roof. (Sponsored by Newton Supply)

Seminar 7
Mounting Lifesize Cougar
Instructors: Al Holmes, Dave Hale, Jeff Schwab
Many requests have been received for cat seminars and we have heard those requests. Three instructors will show you their time saving techniques used in their studios. If mammals are your pleasure then this seminar is one for you. The tips, knowledge, and experience will assist you in lifesize cats. (Sponsored by Al Holmes Supply)

Seminar 8
Painting Fish
Instructor: Archie Phillips
Painting fish is simple when your name is Archie Phillips. Archie will introduce you to his style of painting. He will show the same techniques he uses in own his studio, which is the largest bass studio in the country. If you're interested in a good, profitable way of painting your fish and not spending all day doing it, then this is the seminar for you. (Sponsored by Archie Phillips Supply)

Seminar 9
Whitetail Mounting
Instructor: Ben Mears
Everyone knows Ben as an accomplished whitetail sculptor with forms that have won first place and peoples choice at the tough NTA competitions. Ben will show you how easy these forms are to use and how realistic your whitetail mounts can look. If you need improvement in your whitetails, Ben's seminar will show you what you need to know. (Sponsored by Ben Mears Supply)

Seminar 10
Children's Seminar -- Rocks & Petroglifs
Instructors: Mary Hilliard, Frankie Thompson, Mark Wilson
Children age 6 and up will be making and coloring an artificial rock. They will then be able to carve petroglif designs into their rock. This should be a fun seminar that will rock and roll. (Sponsored by Research Mannikins)

Seminar 11
Waterfowl Mounting
Instructor: Stefan Savides
Stefan will introduce you to his unique style of mounting waterfowl. Enough cannot be said for the artistic creations that Stefan has designed and mounted. Winning numerous awards for his bird work, Stefan has proven his status and will share all phases of bird taxidermy to help you do an excellent job on your birds.

Seminar 12
A History of Taxidermy
Instructor: John Janelli
Who doesn't recall those early days of taxidermy? The stories you've heard and from whence they came. Now you can learn about taxidermy from the very beginning. Relive that dream again. John has spent many years reading and studying about taxidermy and has some great stories to tell. He will be able to separate fact from fiction. This seminar is for the whole family. Attend this seminar and step back in history.

Seminar 13
Fleshing Machines
Instructor: James Edgar
James is the owner of Authentic Taxidermy Supplies and manufactures machines that make all taxidermist's lives easier. From bird, mammal, and deer fleshers to tumblers and other supplies, James has it all. James will demonstrate the fleshing machines and have extra capes available for anyone that would like to try fleshing first hand. If you prefer, you are welcome to bring your own capes. (Sponsored by AuthenticTaxidermy Supply)

Seminar 14
Successful Business Management
Instructors: Archie Phillips and Al Holmes
Have you heard the one about "He ought to know, he wrote the book on it?" Well, Archie Phillips did just that. Do you need help starting a successful taxidermy business or new ideas on managing your present business? Now is the time to write down any questions you may have and bring them with you. Al and Archie will tell you the tips and techniques which they use in in their business. With their vast amount of experience gained through the years, they will give you information to help put you over the top with advice on how to increase profits in your everyday work and build a successful business. (Sponsored by Archie Phillips & Al Holmes)

Seminar 15
Casting with Silicone
Instructor: Mark Vorhis
Mark is employed by Smooth-On. He will be sharing techniques on how to mold with silicone on various specimens. His knowledge shared will prepare you to tackle any molding project that you may encounter. You will see various casting processes being performed and many tips will be shared during this seminar. (Sponsored by Smooth-On)

Seminar 16
Anatomy of a Wild Boar
Instructor: Rick Carter
The secret to having a consistently nice looking mount and to score well at competitions is anatomical accuaracy. Rick will explain the importance of reference material in mounting the wild boar. He will cover the fundamentals and then some. He will discuss eye set, ear attitude, nostril openings, and muscular detail. He will use reference photographs and death cast to provide depth and detail to this seminar. (Sponsored by WASCO)

Seminar 17
Children's Seminar -- "Habitat"
Instructors: Mary Hilliard, Frankie Thompson, Mark Wilson
Children age six and up will enjoy this seminar. Children attending the convention will have the opportunity to participate in a hands on experience. Where else can you play in dirt and not get into trouble for getting dirty? Easy, in Lubbock at a seminar on making bases, rocks and habitats! Parents welcome. (Sponsored by Van Dyke Supply)

Seminar 18
Mounting a Flehmen Whitetail
Instructor: Joe Meder
The quest for the perfect whitetail mount is one that Joe has conquered. His love of whitetail have made him one of the most outstanding taxidermists and sculptors today. Joe will demonstrate the fine points of mounting a flehmen whitetail. Don't miss the opportunity to enhance your whitetail taxidermy. (Sponsored by Tom Powell Supply)

Seminar 19
Fish Painting
Instructor: Jeff Roman
This seminar was such a huge success with numerous request for a repeat performance. Jeff Roman and Star*Fish will feature the newest and most unique fish blanks on the market. These fish blanks have built in mouth detail that takes only a minimum amount of time to prepare prior to painting. You will learn the proper steps in preparing a fish blank and how to paint it. A profitable way to become involved in painting reproduction fish is to attend this seminar. (Sponsored by Star*Fish)

Seminar 20
Mounting a Bison
Instructor: Tom Weickum
He's back for a repeat performance. What else can be said of this talented artist that hasn't been said before? Tom's knowledge of big game is outstanding and his techniques will amaze you. He is currently sculpting a line of mannikins which are sold by Jonas Supply. Knowing the importance of a finished mount to be anatomically accurate, he will show proper eye set, ear attitude, and grooming of the completed mount. Don't miss this seminar!

Seminar 21
African Lifesize Mounting Seminar (all day seminar)
Instructors: Al Holmes, Dave Hale, Jeff Schwab
Many requests have been received for African seminars and we have heard those requests. Three instructors will show you their time saving techniques used in their studios. This will also be an audience participation so if you want to become involved in this seminar you can show up and lend a helping hand. This will be a must see seminar.

Seminar 22
Bald Eagle Bust Recreation
Instructor: Jim Day
You've probably read Jim's article in Breakthrough on eagle recreation and now you can see him up close and personal. He will be using the skin of cornish-cross chickens and gray torluce goose feathers to show you how to produce a bald eagle. Jim will be using foam to carve the breast, gluing the feathers and painting the correct coloration of the eagle. This will be a pedestal mount with details of skin and feather preparation. This will be a great seminar so make plans to attend this one!

Seminar 23
Alternative Income for Taxidermists
Instructor: Ron Young
If you are interested in increasing your bottom line profit and have the opportunity to do some world wide hunting, this seminar is for you. Ron will explain how you can attract more business, make more money, and how to get discounted or free guided hunts world wide. Take advantage of this tremendous opportunity and see how you can make those hunts you have always dreamed of.

Seminar 24
Children's Seminar -- "Painting a Bream"
Instructors: Ben Haden, Dan Rinehart, Terry Rheinlander
Children age six and up will enjoy this fun seminar and be able to paint a bream. The NTA has made a commitment to nurture these future taxidermists. Children will need to wear an apron or old clothing so the paint doesn't stain their good clothes. Children attending the convention will have the opportunity to participate and enjoy this learning experience filled with fun. Parents welcome.

Seminar 25
Cooking Class
Instructor: Holiday Inn Chef
This is a fanatastic seminar and each year those that attend keep coming back for more. Over the past 5 years we have had nothing but rave reviews and this year will be no different. Learn all the short cuts and details to making West Texas cuisine. This will be a pleasant sight to your eyes and your taste buds. There is no charge to attend, but seating is limited. Sign up early!

Seminar 26
"Hands On" Faux Painting, Stenciling, and Wallpapering With Border
Instructor: Tiffeni Beech
This is a fun, hands on seminar that will teach you the art of faux painting. You will be painting a terra-cotta flower pot and then stenciling artwork of your choice on top of the paint. Tiffeni will demonstrate how you can incorporate this procedure into your home, studio walls or taxidermy bases for that unique touch. She'll then demonstrate quick and easy techniques for wallpapering your walls with border to brighten up a room. As this is a "Hands On" seminar, seating is very limited and reservations are required. Sign up early!

Seminar 27
Toucan Crow Recreation
Instructor: Erich Carter
Erich has some of the best seminars you could ever attend. When convention attendees are exiting the room, they are shaking their heads in amazement of all they have learned. This seminar will cover recreation techniques. Erich has some innovative and informative techniques he will be sharing with you from A to Z. Don't miss one of the most talked about seminars of the year!

Seminar 28
The Art of Rock Habitats
Instructor: Rick Kennair
Rick will captivate you with his special seminars using his own special techniques for creating his unique, award-winning habitats. Rocks will be the primary focus of this seminar. Learn various methods of making artificial rocks that can be used on floor bases or for wall mounts. Rick will also cover casting and molding real rocks and show you how to incorporate your rock coloration into the casting mixture. Rick's ideas on habitat will amaze you and your head will be spinning after you attend his seminar.

Seminar 29
Wild Boar
Instructor: Dwayne "Bones" Johnson
Many people choose not to mount wild boar due to their difficulty and many problem areas. "Bones" will cover all of these problem areas and show you how easily a boar can be mounted. There will be emphasis on the difficulties associated with working on these coarse, long haired animals including the jawsets, noses and ears. His new methods and products make it seem so simple you will be excited about the prospect of mounting wild boar. (Sponsored by Noonkester Supply)

Seminar 30
Casting
Instructor: James Edgar
When you hear the name James Edgar your first thought might be fleshing machines. But hold on, James not only makes various machines for the taxidermy industry, but he can really dazzle you with his knowledge of casting. You will become familiar with various molding compounds and techniques. James will discuss and demonstrate how to handle any of the various casting processes you've been wanting to know about and how to tackle them. (Sponsored by Authentic Taxidermy Supply)

Seminar 31
Mounting a Turkey
Instructor: Cally Morris
Among the top taxidermists in the country, Missouri taxidermist Cally Morris has made a name for himself by consistently producing outstanding turkeys. Year after year he has won top honors throughout the nation. Cally will teach you his unique methods on obtaining the proper positions and attitudes of these dynamic birds. See how he takes all of the mystery out of his difficult task so you can make your mounts more realistic. You will also learn the proper way to prepare a turkey head for freeze drying as this is the most accurate method of capturing this most difficult part of bird anatomy.

Seminar 32
Children's Seminar -- Indian Jawsets
Instructors: Mary Hilliard, Frankie Thompson, Mark Wilson
We will provide each child with a deer jawset and show them how to make it into an indian artifact. Children age six and up will enjoy this seminar. Parents welcome.

Seminar 33
African Finish Work
Instructor: Bob Sanders
Bob Sanders is employed with Jonas Brothers and will be sharing his knowledge of African game. He will be discussing paints and painting, clays, epoxies, and airbrush techniques on several different species. Bring your notebook so you can take notes on this seminar. (Sponsored by Jonas Supply)

Seminar 34
Complete Whitetail Deer
Instructors: Joe & Mary Coombs
Each year requests are made for more whitetail seminars. Well all we can say is, Wow! This seminar is for those that want to learn the fundamentals about ears, earbutts, eye setting, and anatomy. If you're looking to make your deer more lifelike then join this husband and wife duo for the do's and don'ts on everything you can imagine. Being very approachable is Joe and Mary's number one goal. Don't miss this golden opportunity to ask your questions and take notes. (Sponsored by Joe Coombs Classics, Inc.)

Seminar 35
Computer A-Z
Instructor: Tom McNeal
Have you ever wondered if a computer was necessary in your taxidermy business? What type of program do I need to get started? Now you can talk to a computer whiz. Tom and Gail McNeal have designed a computer program that is taxidermy friendly. Many state associations currently use a similar program Tom & Gayle designed for tabulation during their state competitions. Tom will share tips and answer questions concerning computer programs for taxidermists.

Seminar 36
Fiberglas Fish Preparation
Instructor: Mike Kirkhart
This seminar will help you become familiar with various techniques and preparation for your fiberglas reproductions. With Mike's knowledge and easy style of teaching you will be entertained and learn how to do an excellent job on your reproductions. Enough cannot be said about this multi-talented artist. Mike will describe how to prepare your reproductions and everything in between. Many taxidermists are interested in this area but don't have the support to find out all of the ins and outs. NOW is the time. (Sponsored by New Wave Taxidermy)

Seminar 37
Fleshing Machines
Instructor: Willis Huston
Machines that make all taxidermists lives easier. From bird, mammal, and deer fleshing can be made easier and Willis can help. Have you ever wanted to see a deer flesher in operation, and not real sure if you want to purchase one? Now is your chance. Willis will demonstrate the art of fleshing and may even let you use the fleshing machine first hand. In fact, Willis will have capes available for you to try your hand, or if you have a cape that you want to flesh, bring it with you to flesh and get a feel for fleshing. (Sponsored by Dixieland Supply)

Seminar 38
Competition Deer Casting
Instructor: Dan Rinehart
This is one of those specialized seminar you have asked for. Dan will take all the mystery out of how to make your very own open mouth deer castings that will be of competition quality. Don't ever wonder how this is done again! Here is your opportunity to see the simple, effective methods used by an expert.

Seminar 39
Children's Seminar -- Possible Bags
Instructors: Mary Hilliard, Frankie Thompson, Mark Wilson
Children age six and up will enjoy this fun seminar making possible bags out of leather or hair-on hides just like the ones used by mountain men and indians. These pouches will then be sewn together using sinew. (Sponsored by Mary's Wholesale Rugs)

Seminar 40
Safari Club International Official Measurers Course
Learn how to properly measure trophy game heads from around the world. Use this opportunity to benefit and promote your business. Sportsmen you have never met or may possibly never meet any other way will now be looking for you. With Safari Club having over 200 local chapters, and 36,000 members, many areas are in need of qualified individuals to properly measure the trophies their members take. With them needing your help in having their trophies measured for the record book, you will have the opportunity to show these sportsmen the type and quality of work you do. Don't miss this golden opportunity to add new clients and work to your studio. All in attendance will qualify as an SCI Official Measurer.

Seminar 41
Migratory Bird Laws
Instructor: Mike Oropallo
As a partner with the law firm of Hancock & Estabrook, as well as an avid duck hunter, Mike's experience has given him a clear and first hand knowledge of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. In this seminar Mike will explain the law and how it relates to the taxidermist and the hunter and provide you with some informative handouts. If you mount birds then this is one seminar that you won't want to miss!

Seminar 42
Reptile Mounting
Instructor: Terry Rheinlander
Most taxidermists don't like snakes. Well, Terry does and it shows in his unique mounting style. Terry is known for his outstanding reptile mounts and will help you become familiar with various time saving tips. He will demonstrate preparation for skinning, skinning methods, fleshing, and prepping the mannikin. He will discuss methods of preserving the skin, and the best procedure to use when attaching the skin to the mannikin.

Seminar 43
Casting Seminar
Instructor: John Matthews
John is well known for his innovative whitetail deer mounts. He will share his knowledge of mold making and casting parts. Many taxidermists are interested in this area but don't have the support to find out all of the ins and outs. NOW is the time. This seminar will help you become familiar with various molding compounds and casting materials. John will explain everything in such a manner that you will no long shy away from any casting job.

Seminar 44
The Art of Water Habitats
Instructor: Rick Kennair
Rick will captivate his audience with a special seminar using his own special techniques for water splash scenes for fish and ducks, using acrylic plastics as well as creating icicles. You don't want to miss this one!

Seminar 45
Mounting a Commerical, Money-Making Whitetail
Instructor: Don Holt
Don has won numerous awards in competitions for his outstanding and unique mounts. He has sculptured forms for Van Dykes and has provided numerous "hands on" seminars. Don will be sharing his methods and techniques he uses in his studio in Texas. He will cover the basics and share knowledge on how to keep those trouble areas to a minimum. He will show you the importance of eyeset and ears in making your deer look more lifelike. This seminar will definitely enhance your whitetail taxidermy. (Sponsored by Van Dyke's)

Seminar 46
Children's Seminar -- Make it, Take it
Instructors: The Brummel Family
Each participant will be furnished a bendable wire armature and various colors of AVES Apoxie Sculpt to create whatever their imagination will allow. From animals to flowers, to exotic alien beings, anything is a possibility! All clay and sculpting tools will be provided. Parents are welcome. (Sponsored by AVES Studio)