Thomas Lane Hillier’s projects at this year’s Knox County Fair cover two very different areas: market rabbits and World War II combat photography.
WNZR’s Ethan Hershberger talked with Thomas Lane about his years in 4-H, his role on the Knox County Junior Fair Board, and the work behind both projects.
Click HERE to hear the full conversation!
Thomas Lane is from Bellville and is a homeschooled sophomore. He has been a member of the Clovers of the Valley 4-H Club for 10 years and is now serving his third year on the Junior Fair Board. He is also one of the board’s secretaries.
This year, he is showing market rabbits. He explained how he works with them ahead of the fair so they are prepared to be handled and presented during judging.
His still project focuses on combat photographers during World War II. Thomas Lane said the project gave him an opportunity to learn more about the people who documented the war and the conditions in which they worked. He also shared that he sometimes heads into a closet to find a quiet place to concentrate on the project.
His years of showing animals have included a few unexpected moments. Thomas Lane recalled one year when a stubborn goat jumped clean over his head during the show.
He said 4-H and the Junior Fair Board have taught him persistence. One of his favorite memories came during his first year on the board, when he was not fully prepared for how busy Sale Day would be but enjoyed relaxing with friends once it was over.
After the fair, Thomas Lane hopes to spend some time in the woods.
Click HERE to learn more about the Knox County Fair!
(Photo Credit: Jenelle Doup, Saved by Grace Photography)
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