Join us downtown for the First Friday Back to School Bash, sponsored by Washington State Community College. WSCC will have booths and activities on the Armory lawn, including face painting and giveaways for kids. The school mascot, Benji the Buck, will be on hand for photos. The college is also collecting donations for GoPacks 4 Kids, a program that provides nutritious food items for students during breaks and weekends. Businesses hosting donation sites for GoPacks include: American Flags and Poles, Baker & Baker Jewelers, Green Acres of Marietta, Jeremiah’s Coffee House, Riverside Artists Gallery, Sugar Maple Boutique, Teri Ann’s, Threadz, Twisted Sisters Boutique, A Unique Flower & Gift Shop, and Wit & Whimzy!

“We are very excited to partner with Washington State Community College for this event, and we’re happy to collect donations for this very worthy cause,” said Laura Pytlik, Owner of Wit & Whimzy and member of the First Friday Committee. “Many students rely on schools to provide nutritious meals, and GoPacks help ensure that those students will have healthy options even during weekends and short breaks.”

With local schools back in session for the new year, art classes are already in full swing. Student art from local schools will be on display in the following businesses: American Flags and Poles, Jeremiah’s Coffee House, Riverside Artists Gallery, Sugar Maple Boutique, Twisted Sisters Boutique, and Wit & Whimzy.

Friday also coincides with the annual Sternwheel Festival, so downtown Marietta will be host to large crowds enjoying the many free activities. Shops will be open until 9 PM and many are featuring back to school supplies, fashion and promotions.

“The Sternwheel Festival is always a great weekend for Marietta, with visitors and residents alike enjoying the free activities,” said Pytlik. “First Friday adds another level of excitement and opportunities for people to explore the shops and businesses downtown during extended hours.”
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