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UT TSU Extension Marion County Announces Summer Programs, Workshops and Community Events

Residents across Marion County will have several opportunities this summer to learn new skills, stay active, support community causes and participate in family-friendly programs through the UT TSU Extension Marion County office.

The Extension Office has announced a series of upcoming events ranging from youth cooking and wellness activities to food preservation classes and a community blood drive.

Red, White & Blue Dessert-Making Workshop

The first event on the calendar is the Red, White & Blue Dessert-Making Workshop on Thursday, July 2, beginning at 9 a.m. at the Marion County Health Department, 24 E. 7th Street in Jasper.

The hands-on workshop is designed for young chefs ages 7 and older. Participants will create patriotic-themed desserts while learning basic baking, decorating and kitchen skills in a family-friendly environment.

Registration for the workshop closes June 30.

Mom & Me Yoga in the Park

Families can then take part in the Mom & Me Yoga in the Park series, which offers outdoor storytelling yoga sessions designed to encourage movement and imagination.

The classes will be held from 9:30 a.m. until 10 a.m. at three locations:

  • July 7: Jasper Park
  • July 14: Kimball Park
  • July 21: Crossroads Park

The cost is $5 per child, per class, and a parent or guardian must attend with each child.

Community Blood Drive Scheduled July 17

The Extension Office is partnering with Blood Assurance for a community blood drive on Friday, July 17, from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. at the Marion County 4-H Extension Office, 302 Betsy Pack Drive in Jasper.

Organizers have set a goal of 15 donors. Individuals who donate blood will receive a $25 Blood Assurance gift card, which will be delivered electronically within 10 days of donation.

Donors are encouraged to eat a good meal beforehand, bring a valid ID and drink extra water before giving blood.

Blueberry Jam Canning Class Planned for July 30

Adults interested in food preservation can participate in the Jammin’ July Home Canning Class on Thursday, July 30, from 9 a.m. until noon at the Marion County Health Department Demonstration Kitchen.

The class will focus on water-bath canning techniques, food safety practices and the preparation of homemade blueberry jam. Participants will also learn what judges look for in award-winning canned products and how to prepare entries for the Tennessee State Fair canning competition.

The cost is $40, and registration is required by July 28. While the program is geared toward adults, teenagers are also welcome to attend.

Registration Information

Registration information for the workshops and classes is available through the UT TSU Extension Marion County office.

For registration links, program updates and additional information about upcoming classes and events, residents can follow the UT TSU Extension Marion County Facebook page. The office regularly posts details about educational programs, workshops, 4-H activities and community events throughout the year.

Facebook: UT TSU Extension Marion County Facebook Page

The UT TSU Extension Marion County office provides educational programming and research-based information in agriculture, 4-H youth development and family and consumer sciences throughout Marion County.