The Hale County Extension Office will be hosting a special-interest program called “Reeling In” to be held on Wednesday, August 31 from 2 to 4 PM. The program is geared towards increasing awareness and appreciation for Hale County’s catfish industry and the catfish itself.
Families and community members are invited to sample catfish tacos and catfish gumbo while learning information about the catfish. Identifying catfish anatomy and discussions on the benefits of omega-three fatty acids will be among the topics on the itinerary.
This is a part of the Extension Office’s celebration of National Catfish Month throughout the month of August. A Colorama and Create-a-Catfish Artistic Expression (Freeform) contest is available for youth in Hale County to enter throughout the month of August. Entries for both are due for judging by August 29.
The Colorama will be open to children in grades Pre-K through 3rd who are residents of Hale County. One entry is allowed per applicant. When entering you may download the official coloring pages from the Hale County Extension Office or visit them in person to receive your own copy. Color using any medium desired, however additional materials and embellishments may not be glued to the pages. Entries must show creativity, coloring skill, and overall appealing to the eye. Properly fill out the second page of the coloring sheet with proper contact information. Categories will consist of Division 1 (Pre-K to Kindergarten) and Division 2 (Grades 1-3). Entries will be displayed at the Hale County Extension Office during the August 31 “Reeling In” program, with each participant receiving a Certificate of Recognition.
Create-a-Catfish is open to youth in grades 4 through 12 and adults 18 and over who reside in Hale County with one entry allowed per applicant. Draw your own catfish or take a picture of a catfish and draw it on the material of your choice. The size of each catfish drawing should be no larger than 8.5 inches by 11 inches. A pattern for a catfish is available in person or online through the Extension Office. Decorate the catfish in any manner you prefer, including three-dimensional elements to create a catfish that is unique. Entries will be judged on their creativity, skill, and appeal. Entries should be colorful, neat, and attractive. Applicants should write their contact information on the back of their entries before submission. Youth categories will be divided into two divisions with Division 1 being for grades 4-8 and Division 2 for Grades 9-12. Adult categories will have their own division for awarding. Each participant will receive a Certificate of Recognition and have their work displayed at the Extension Office during the “Reeling In” program.
