MARION, Ill.— Summer is in full swing and local 4-H members have kept busy attending some fun, hands-on activities and workshop at the Williamson County Extension Office. At the beginning of the season, 4-H members participated in the local Herrin Festa Italiana parade where they won the Grand Poopah award.
Williamson County 4-H members learned more about photography during a fun, hands-on workshop. Led by Steve Buhman, owner of New Leaf Studio and retired University photographer for SIU, the workshop covered the origins and history of photography as well as basic parts and operation of a camera. During a brief intermission, participants went out and captured some of their own images. Those photos were displayed and Buhman gave feedback and shared tips on how to improve future images. He told the youth, “Don’t be satisfied with your first shot. Try different angles until you get the photo you want.”
During the “Reeling in the Fun” workshop, led by Luke Nelson of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources Fisheries, participants were able to get a hands-on experience with fish, learn how to cast a rod and reel and gain more information about boating safety. They had a chance to compare the different type of fish and even hold a variety of species including catfish, bluegill and largemouth bass. The youth learned how fish scales can change color to blend in with their environment and how their scales act like an armor to protect and act as a defense against predators. The group is looking forward to another fun summer workshop later this month where they will get to put their skills to the test as they participate in a fishing day. Program Coordinator, Esther Waddy, stated that many of the youth have never had a chance to fish and they are really excited about the opportunity. The 4-H youth fishing day is scheduled for Thursday, August 1, from 2:30-5:00 p.m. To learn more about 4-H programs, clubs and workshops or to sign up for the upcoming fishing day, please contact the Williamson County Extension office at (618) 993-3304.
University of Illinois Extension provides equal opportunities in programs and employment. If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate in programming, contact your local registration office. Early requests are strongly encouraged to allow sufficient time for meeting your needs.
News writer: Heather Willis, 618-357-2126, hdwillis@illinois.edu