The Columbia Rotary Club participated in the “Back to School Bash” held on Saturday, August 24^th, at Tyrrell Hall in Columbia.  In an ongoing effort to support the needs of the community’s school children, the Rotarians elected to donate 20 book bags/back packs to the event sponsored by  Tyrrell County Minister’s Association.  This was the second year that the club has purchased book bags for students.

“This is our way of supporting the needs of local children”, said Dr. Chris Smith, Rotary Club president.  He further stated that “by contributing our bags thru the event sponsored by the local churches, it gave us the opportunity to help make the event bigger and also meet the needs of more children.”  Saturday’s event served nearly 120 students and several of the churches had individual booths making other items available.  One central location provided book bags, notebook paper, pencils, erasers, composition books and ring binders based on the grade level the students are entering.

Local churches participating in the day’s event included The Assembly of Praise, Wesley Memorial United Methodist, Albemarle Church of Christ, Sound Side Free Will Baptist, Columbia Christian,  Frying Pan Free Will Baptist and The Source Church from Manteo provided music.  Thanks was extended to the county for providing Tyrrell Hall for the event and to all the volunteers who worked to make the day a real success.