The 19th Annual Core Sound Decoy Festival is now behind us and this year’s Festival was, by all accounts, even bigger and better than last year’s show. The weather was very nice on Saturday, clear and cool, and the number of attendees was up from last year. Sunday’s numbers took a slight dip due to a chilly afternoon rain but, overall, attendance was up.

A popular new event this year involved a children’s interactive archery exhibit. Kids were given the opportunity to shoot a bow and arrow at various targets in one of the classrooms.The Bowhunting Association, the group behind the event, has promised to return for the 20th annual Decoy Festival next year.

Most exhibitors reported sales were brisk. This was evidenced by the numbers of festival goers who were sporting large bags and packages during the show.

Many heartfelt thanks to the volunteers, exhibitors and Guild members who make the Core Sound Decoy Festival possible. Special thanks to Principal April Lilley and the teachers, staff, children and parents of Harkers Island Elementary School. The show would not be possible without the enthusiastic cooperation we receive from the school.

Congratulations to Tommy Rogers of Snow Hill, NC who has been chosen as the Featured Carver for 2007. The Featured Decoy for the 2007 show is the Oldsquaw (now officially known as the Long-tailed Duck).

Please mark your calandars for next year’s show on December 1st and 2nd, 2007. The 2007 show marks the 20th anniversary of the Core Sound Decoy Festival and we are already planning to make it something really special.