As the first day of school approaches, families across West Alabama are making final preparations for the new school year. This weekend, several back-to-school events will offer students encouragement, school supplies, and resources to help them start the year off strong.

If you are hosting a free back-to-school event, please let me know; I would love to help spread the word. Please email me at maryk@townsquaremedia.com.

‘Back-to-School’ Events for Saturday, August 8

10 a.m.

The Howard Initiative, in partnership with the Culver Road Church, is hosting a ‘Back-to-School’ Giveaway from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The event is open to students in Pre-K to 5th Grade and will be held at the Culver Road Church located at 2701 Culver Rd, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401.

The First 100 Attendees Can Expect (students must be present to receive supplies)

  • Backpacks
  • School Supplies
  • In addition, there will be a bounce house, face painting, and food during the event.
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4 p.m. – 7 p.m.

Annual Narrow Way Church ‘Back-to-School’ Bash, where they believe in “helping every student soar into a new school year by providing essential school supplies, encouragement, prayer, and resources that strengthen both students and their families,” the church shared in a Facebook post.

The event is open to students in Pre-K through 12th Grade and will be held at the Narrow Way Church located at 508 James I. Harrison Jr. Parkway, Tuscaloosa, AL 35405.

Attendees Can Expect (while supplies last)

  • Backpacks
  • Community Resources
  • Door Prizes
  • Games & Activities
  • Prayer & Encouragement
  • School Supplies

6 p.m.

You’re invited to the First African Baptist Church for the ‘Back-to-School’ Movie Night. “Kick off the school year with a night of fun, fellowship and encouragement,” according to a post on the church’s Facebook page.

The church encourages you to invite your family, friends, neighbors, and co-workers, as everyone is welcome to attend. It will be held at First African Baptist Church, 2621 Stillman Blvd, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401.

Attendees Can Expect (while supplies last)

  • Games
  • Great Movie
  • School Supplies
  • Snacks

See How School Cafeteria Meals Have Changed Over the Past 100 Years

Using government and news reports, Stacker has traced the history of cafeteria meals from their inception to the present day, with data from news and government reports. Read on to see how various legal acts, food trends, and budget cuts have changed what kids are getting on their trays.

Gallery Credit: Madison Troyer

KEEP READING: What were the most popular baby names from the past 100 years?

KEEP READING: Here are the most popular baby names in every state

Using March 2019 data from the Social Security Administration, Stacker compiled a list of the most popular names in each of the 50 states and Washington D.C., according to their 2018 SSA rankings. The top five boy names and top five girl names are listed for each state, as well as the number of babies born in 2018 with that name. Historically common names like Michael only made the top five in three states, while the less common name Harper ranks in the top five for 22 states.

Curious what names are trending in your home state? Keep reading to see if your name made the top five -- or to find inspiration for naming your baby.

Gallery Credit: Stacker

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