The SAWA is expanding its operations and will begin the SAWA Pro Lumberjack Series in May of 2003.  Membership applications are currently being accepted from residents of VA, NC, SC, TN and GA.  The SAWA Pro Lumberjack Series will consist of a number of linked professional lumberjack sports competitions which will increase in number each year.  4-6 contests will be scheduled for 2003 with the planned addition of at least 2 contests each year thereafter, until the total reaches 12-15 contests annually.  Events will include Underhand and standing block chopping, two-person and one-person crosscut sawing, axe throwing and modified chain sawing. The SAWA is proud to announce that Mid-Atlantic Stihl has agreed to a 5 year contract to be the Presenting Sponsor of the SAWA Pro Lumberjack Series.  Stihl is the manufacturer of the number one selling chainsaw worldwide as well as other high quality outdoor power equipment.  Stihl Inc. has sponsored The Stihl TimberSports Series on ESPN since 1985. The first contest of the 2003 season for the SAWA Pro Lumberjack Series will be held on May 3rd in Granite Quarry, NC. Granite Fest is an annual festival with attendance typically exceeding 3500 people and is hosted by the Town of Granite Quarry.  The initial heats of the contest will start promptly at Noon with semifinal heats at 2:00 and the finals at 4:00.  Events will include: Underhand Chopping, Two Person Sawing, Standing Block Chop, One Person Sawing, Axe Throwing and the ever popular Hot Saw, featuring highly modified chainsaws up to 250 cc in size