Two events took place in uptown Wadesboro Friday. One celebrated an ending and one celebrated a beginning.

While Summer Jam helped close out the season, the HOLLA! Back to School Bash helped kick off the school year. The event was held across from the courthouse on the square.

While children played, adults often stood or sat around the edges, talking to each other.

Children could play in a moon bounce, buy a snow cone or boogie to music. Dozens of children showed up, along with their parents.

School supplies were distributed.

A workshop was held for parents. More than 20 parents came.

It stressed the importance of literacy, North Carolina PTA president Debra Horton said.

Pamphlets were passed out, like "100 ways to help your child and school succeed." Another paper offered tips to encourage reading, like "use their interests and hobbies as starting points."

"We've had parents and children coming out all night," said Subrina Hough, administrative officer of HOLLA!