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Back-to-School Blowout deemed a success
Parents and kids lined up for backpacks
One of the first booths near the entrance of the fairgrounds handed out more than 1,000 backpacks and book bags with school supplies – donated by Walmart. (Photos by Barbara Augsdorfer/Effingham Herald.)

The 12th Annual Back-to-School Blowout at the Effingham County Fairgrounds and hosted by Ready2Connect was postponed a week due to rainy weather on July 25.

Rescheduled to Aug. 1, the heat didn’t seem to deter the crowds of parents and children eager to receive backpacks, school supplies, uniform tops and bottoms, socks, among other items. There were signs reminding participants to stay hydrated and plenty of water bottles were available.

All items were given away for free.

Children could also receive free haircuts so they could be ready for the First Day of School.