Youth, up to 18 years of age, and their parents are invited to enjoy a day of outdoor fun at the J. Edward Kelley Complex on the campus of West Virginia University Potomac State College.
The Tink Smith Collegiate Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF) at WVU Potomac State College will host their Third Annual Catamount JAKES Showcase on January 26from 11a.m. to 3 p.m. Admission to the event is free.
“Many families enjoy hunting together and this is an opportunity for kids to get away from their cell phones and other electronic devices and discover how exciting the outdoors can be, even if it is the middle of January,” said Scottie Day, chapter president. “It’s also a great time for kids to connect with their parents or grandparents by engaging in hands-on activities that they both enjoy.”
Supervised activities, demonstrations and seminars may include (subject to availability): turkey calling, archery, fly-fishing/fly-tying, water safety, NWTF JAKES Take Aim Air-Rifle Range, trapping demonstration, waterfowl hunting, turkey hunting safety, and Natural Resource Law Enforcement presentations.
Local and state NWTF chapters host thousands of similar events nationwide each year to introduce youth to the outdoors through the JAKES (for 12 and younger) and Xtreme JAKES (13 to 17) Hunting Heritage programs.
JAKES, which stands for Juniors Acquiring Knowledge, Ethics and Sportsmanship, convey the NWTF’s dedication to educating the next generation of smart, ethical hunters. The Tink Smith Collegiate Chapter of the NWTF is the only one located in West Virginia.