Community

Back-to-School Rally at Edison

RICHMOND -- Edison Local Schools prepared for the start of another school year by hosting its annual Back-to-School Rally Aug. 8.

Several hundred people beat the heat to receive free items, jump on inflatables and enjoy treats outside the high school's fieldhouse in Richmond.

More than two-dozen vendors were represented, including churches, school sports and clubs and community organizations. Vendors distributed school supplies, Edison merchandise and information, while Eddie the Wildcat greeted children and took photos.

Food trucks sold hamburgers, pizza, barbecue and cold treats; Screwy Louie's offered inflatable rides; and the Jefferson County Sheriff's Department had vehicles on display.

It's always nice to have this event," stated Superintendent Bill Beattie. "It's a sign that we're close to going back to school. It's exciting to see and I hope everyone's excited as well."

Assistant Superintendent Julie Kireta said the rally was a nice prelude to the new school year.

"The turnout was great," she commented. "We typically get half of our students for this. There were 27 sports teams, community organizations and churches at the tables. A lot of them had information on the services they provide, school supplies and treats for the kids." She noted the district provided drawstring bags with school supplies and Edison merchandise.

Kireta said the number of vendors was more than last year's rally. Others taking part included the Mom Squad Football Moms, FFA, band members and volleyball, soccer, cross country, wrestling, swim, golf and cheer teams. Vendors included the Public Library of Steubenville and Jefferson County, Jefferson County Prevention and Recovery Board, Jefferson County Health Department, Jefferson County Board of Developmental Disabilities, Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities, JB Green Team, OhioRISE, the Grit Project, Future Plans, Ohio Valley Robotics Team, Village Network, Nutrition Inc., Army Recruiting Center, Marine Recruiting Center, Family Recovery Center, Richmond United Methodist Church, Mount Zion Church, Jefferson County Family and Children First Council, Coleman Health Services, Corporation of Ohio Appalachian Development and Jefferson County Community Action Council.

Food vendors included Ohio Valley Pizza, Rubbin' Butts Barbecue, Hokulia Shaved Ice and All American Burger.

Parents and students said the event was a way to help families needing supplies.

"It's great," Toronto resident Jamie Virtue said. "I like the fact they are giving away free school supplies."

The evening concluded with a Meet-the-Team event, introducing the fall sports teams and band at Cartwright Memorial Stadium.

Edison Local officially begins the school year Wednesday.