State Rep. Vernon G. Smith (D-Gary) said King Milan Barber Shop will offer free haircuts and the first 300 students will receive a free backpack at the Back-to-School Jamboree on Saturday, Sept. 9 on the Indiana University Northwest Campus. The Jamboree will be from 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m.
“The free haircuts by King Milan Barber Shop have become an extremely popular attraction at the Back-to-School Jamboree and we are honored to have King Milan join us again this year,” said Dr. Smith. “The free backpacks are also something the students look forward to receiving. The first 300 students, who come to the Jamboree, will receive one, so plan on arriving early to get a free backpack.
“There are also numerous activities for children and youth of all ages,” added Dr. Smith. “It is a great way to start the new school year — looking sharp with a fresh haircut, a backpack with supplies and a lot of good memories from the fun the students and their families will have. Best of all, the Jamboree is free for all families to attend.”
The three-on-three basketball to-urnament competition will be 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. in Savannah Hall Gymnasium. Teams should register early to ensure they have a position and to save money on the registration fee. Early registration is still only $30 for each team. However, on-sight registration will be $45 per team. Application forms can be obtained by visiting the Beautiful Things store at 3570 Village Court in Gary or by calling Dr. Smith at 887-2046.
The Jamboree’s annual film festival is scheduled from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. inside Savannah Hall Auditorium. A DJ will provide music for dancing from noon-4 p.m. In addition, there will be a Double Dutch Jump Rope Competition, a video game tournament and a dance contest.
For the younger children, finger painting, a drawing contest and face painting will be offered.
Area agencies will have exhibit booths to distribute literature about what those organizations have to offer students and their families. Various businesses will also display their products and have those items for sale.
Booth rental for youth service agencies is $35 and the cost for businesses selling products is $45. Hot dogs, Polish sausages and soft drinks are products not allowed to be sold by vendors. Those interested in booths should call Dr. Smith at 219-887-2046.
The Jamboree is sponsored by Dr. Smith; the African-American Achievers Youth Corps, Inc.; the I.U. Dons, Inc.; Indiana University Northwest; Haywood & Flemings Associates Insurance Agency; the Gary Crusader; the 411 News; Geminus Corporation; Fresh Coun-ty Market; King Milan Barber Shop; Familia Dental; Centier Bank, MetroPCS, the Indiana Commission on the Social Status of Black Males; and the Indiana Civil Rights Commission.
