As hard as it is to believe, the days of summer are winding down. This means it’s time for families throughout Polk County to celebrate the start of another school year by joining in the “Back to School Bash” on Saturday, Aug. 8, at Tryon United Methodist Church.  The festivities will take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the church campus, just a very short walk up the hill from downtown Tryon — and it’s totally free to the community.

 

Ever since last year’s event, church members have been accumulating winter coats for school-age children and making donations to fund the purchase of school supplies, food and fun. The first 300 students will receive a tote bag of school supplies, and members of the entire family can treat themselves to a lunch of hot dogs, chips, drinks, and desserts. To top it off, kids will be able enjoy sno-cones and cotton candy, as well as pouncing on the inflatable obstacle course and Ninja slide.

 

Beyond the fun and food, the primary objective of the “Bash” is to facilitate a successful school year for as many local students as possible. Winter coats will be available to those who need them, as well as back-to-school haircuts. A representative of the Dolly Parton Imagination Library will offer toddlers the opportunity to sign up to receive free books, and the Lions Club will be on site offering free vision screenings.

 

Tryon United Methodist Church is located at 195 New Market Road. For more detailed information, call 859-9218 or visit www.tryonumc.org.

— Submitted by Steve Collie