A large turnout is expected for the third annual Rogers County “Back to School Bash”. The event is set for 9-11:30 a.m., Aug. 12, at Northeast Technology Center in Claremore. The event is being sponsored by the Department of Human Services, First United Methodist Church, Northeast Technology Center, Hope Harbor, the Rogers County Coalition, Oklahoma Department of Rehabilitation Services and SoonerSuccess.

“We would like to invite area organizations and agencies to participate in this event. This event is organized to give the students a positive send off for the upcoming school year. We ask that if you participate in this event, you supply information about your organization/agency to the families that attend, as well as have something for the students that will help them in the upcoming school year,” said Sharon Bittner, president of the Rogers County Coalition.

July 14 is the deadline to register as a vendor. To receive a registration form, please contact: Sharon.bittner@okdhs.org and one will be emailed to you. Or you may call: 918-283-8310.

The First Annual Back to School Bash was held August 1, 2015, with 32 vendors and about 500 people attended. The Second Annual Back to School Bash was on August 6, 2016, with 45 vendors about 300 people attended. The organizers are expecting a larger crowd this year.

Hope Harbor Thrift Store will have a jeans exchange program; Oklahoma Caring Van will be there to provide vaccinations, and free eye exams will be provided. In addition, several local agencies and state offices will be present providing information that will help parents and their children have a good start to the new school year.