Hundreds turn out for WMES BBQ

Students and parents tour a classroom at Winlock Miller Elementary School Thursday night during an open house preceded by a well-attended free BBQ dinner, the first of its kind held by the district.

More than 300 parents and students turned out for an open house and BBQ at Winlock Miller Elementary School Thursday night.

Though an open house is usually held each year, Superintendent Shannon Criss said this is the first time free dinner has been available at the event, provided by volunteers with the Parent Teacher Student Association (PTSA).

Criss called the turnout very successful and credited volunteers with the bulk of the work leading up to that night, which included gathering donations of food from Cash & Carry, Cedar Village IGA, Shop n Kart, Jeremy’s Mainstreet Market, Franz Bakery, Grocery Outlet and members of the PTSA.

Volunteers with the Winlock Backpack Program, who seek to send backpacks full of food home with students in need every week, also served food to those in attendance and were pleased to hand out second helpings as needed.

PTSA President Ann Rubert was beaming at the success of the night and said she was very grateful to all who donated, stating unused food items will be given to the Winlock Food Bank.

The PTSA is always looking for able community members (no requirement to be a parent) to help with various programs throughout the year, including the raising of funds for scholarships. To learn more, send an email to winlockptsa2011@hotmail.com or attend one of their regular meetings, the next of which is scheduled for Sept. 9 at 7 p.m. in the Elementary School Cafeteria.