More fingerprinting by SCSO.

Branford students received new backpacks in the first annual Back to School Bash sponsored by Branford Elementary, Branford High and the Rotary Club.

The event attracted more than 235 people. The remaining backpacks will be distributed as needed. According to Trannie Lacquey, Branford Rotary Club Secretary, people started lining up around 7 a.m.

“This was our first time hosting this event. In the past, families had to go to Live Oak,” Lacquey said. “Between the high school, elementary and the Rotary Club, we all put this together.”

Aside from receiving the free backpacks, students were also able to meet with representatives from Branford Dental and Suwannee County Health Department. The Suwannee County Sheriff’s Office had deputies present doing finger printing. Parents of students were able to get paperwork done for free or reduced lunches and arrange bus transportation. Olga Knott, a retired hair dresser, did free hair cuts. More than 225 shaved ice cones were given away to students and parents.

“I thought it went very well,” Rebecca Layman, Branford Elementary School guidance counselor said. “The children were excited to about the snow cones and backpacks. The parents were also very appreciative of the backpacks and all the resources that were made available in one room.”

Of the 300 backpacks, 236 were given out on Saturday at the event. The remainder of the backpacks will be distributed as needed.

Students may meet teachers Thursday from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., for grades nine through 12. On Friday, kindergarten through second from 10 to 11:30 a.m.; third through fifth from 1 to 2:30 p.m.; and 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. for sixth to eighth graders.