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ABy Jesse Palmergreat African Safari typically involves a combination of stunning wildlife, breathtakinglandscapes, comfortable accommodations, knowledgeable PH’s, and well-organized logistics. Here are some key elements that can contribute to a great African safari experience:1. Abundant Wildlife: The chance to see diverse and iconic African wildlife such as lions, elephants, giraffes, zebras, rhinos, and more in their natural habitats is a major draw for many safari-goers. National parks and game reserves like Addo Elephant Reserve in Port Elizabeth, Cheetah Center on R75, and Kruger National Park in South Africa, are known for their rich biodiversity. 2. Knowledgeable Guides/PH’s: Experienced and knowledgeable guides/PH’s can greatly enhance the safari experience by providing valuable insights into the behavior and ecology of the wildlife, as well as the local culture and history. A great guide can make the difference between simply seeing animals and truly understanding and appreciating the ecosystem.3. Comfortable Accommodations:Whether it’s a luxury tented camp, asafari lodge, or a mobile tented safari, comfortable accommodations that allow you to experience the wilderness without sacrificing comfort are an essential part of a great safari. Many lodges and camps are designed to blend in with the natural surroundings, offering a unique and immersive experience.4. Scenic Landscapes: In addition to wildlife, Africa is known for its stunning landscapes, including savannas, forests, mountains, and waterways. A great safari should offer opportunities to appreciate and photograph these landscapes, from sunrise and sunset vistas to dramatic natural features like the Ngorongoro Crater in Tanzania or the Victoria Falls in Zambia and Zimbabwe.5. Well-Planned Itinerary: An itinerary that balances game drives, leisure time, and other activities, while taking into account the seasons and animal migrations, can greatly enhance the safari experience. Additionally, having well-organized logistics, such as seamless transportation and efficient camp or lodge operations, can contribute to a stress-free and enjoyable trip.6. Authentic Cultural Experiences: Many African safaris also offer opportunities toengage with local communities and learn about their traditions, crafts, and ways of life. This can provide a deeper understanding of the region and its people.7. Responsible Tourism: A great African safari should prioritize environmental conservation and responsible tourism practices. This includes supporting ecologically sustainable lodges and camps, respecting wildlife, and habitats, and contributing to local conservation and community development efforts.A history enthusiast who until now only tapped technical writing, Buckley graduated from West Point in 1981 after a halcyon youth there. Accordingly, he draws upon memory and better-known histories to concisely recast them.“The narrative benefits from Buckley’s personal connection to West Point, as both he and his father graduated from the institution and spent much of their lives there,” retired Brigadier Gen. Lance Betros, author of Carved from Granite: West Point since 1902, said on the book’s backflap.Buckley and his wife Suzanne live two miles southwest of Helotes with his wife Suzanne. Their two sons Robert and David graduated from Sandra Day O’Connor High School and The University of Texas system.Leaving the Army as a major, Buckley joined the business world, ultimately serving in management at USAA Life Insurance Co. and retiring in 26 years.West Point stayed in his blood. Buckley’s late father, Col. Harry A. Buckley, served there as a popular instructor and later head of the Department of Military Psychology and Leadership.Buckley and his two brothers and two sisters peacefully passed the years in sight of the Gothic-architecture campus. His mother, Sally Hallahan Buckley, was a homemaker who managed her brood with military efficiency, still encouraging her children to explore the craggy outdoors where streams could ice up in winter.“I have always loved history, especially of the Highlands region, including its geology, also discussed in the book,” Buckley said.Edited by a former West Point neighborOverall, a great African safari is a combination of wildlife encounters, natural beauty, cultural experiences, and comfortable, well-planned logistics, all while maintaining a commitment to responsible and sustainable travel.Bucket List Outfitters in Spring Branch can book your Hunting or Photography Safari. Please stop by and talk with us, we have traveled to Africa a couple dozen times. For more information, call Jesse at (210)722-8936.BAy Lesli Hickss a volunteer in GeorgeWashington’s Revolutionary Army,Harold faced Dieter, a Hessian on the British side, likely pointing their muskets at each other more than once.The two soldiers – a fresh-faced blacksmith eking out a subsistence living and a hardened German-speaking warrior from Hesse province – are composite characters deep inside a new account, Born in the Shadow of History: West Point’s Early Years and the American Revolution.The fact-based book uses the flair of two fictional combatants as archetypes in thehighly readable historical narrative of the military academy’s difficult birth. While the history has been documented, this work repackages the dramatic origins of “The Point” to secure a new nation.A passion project for area author John B. Buckley, the publication covers the fortress and military school at the time of Gen. Washington, when he and his compatriots turned their guns on King George III’s colonial rule.Rebels first sought reform, then revolution by force of soaring rhetoric – and a militia-turned-professional army whose very heart was West Point.Bill Patterson, thebook was still alocal production.Marshall HighSchool graduateand a formereditor at the SanAntonio Express-News Cathy Smithoffered a voluntaryassist reading themanuscript and UTSA graduate and graphic artist Kaylin Jones designed the cover.“In 2026, this country will mark 250 years of nationhood, “Buckley said. “Our small part in noting West Point’s role in the Continental Army-turned-U.S. Army and foundation of this country’s global security is an honor.The 195-page Amazon book is available in an e-book format for $2.99 and paperback for $15.What Makes A Great African SafariLocal Author Pens New West Point HistorySt. NicholasEPISCOPAL CHURCHPlease join us on March 31st for7:30am Sunrise Service 9:30am Service followed byFiesta Potluck and Egg Hunt2265 Bulverde RoadBulverde, TX 78163Stnickshillcountry.orgAnhalt HallMARCH 16, 2024Cajun FestivalCrawfish & Shrimp BoilFOOD SERVED11am - 6pmMusic & Dancing ByBrett Denais & Cajun Groove Noon - 6pmBilly Mata & Texas Tradition 7pm - 11pmADMISSION $10 from 11am-6pm $20 from 7–11pm2390 Anhalt Rd. Spring Branch TEXAS 78070www.anhalthall.com/eventsJohn B. Buckley, Author8www.bsbhighlights.comMarch 2024