Cake, Ribbons, Speeches, Performances and Cheese Straws

Sunday afternoon drew hundreds of people to David C. Barrow Elementary to wish the 90-year-old school a happy birthday.

Some, like Ed Benson, had attended the school as children. Others have children or grandchildren in the school today. A few taught or worked at Barrow years ago.

And some came who had no real ties to the school, other than they live in Athens and wanted to see what all the hubbub was about. 

For the volunteers, teachers and employees who planned and staffed the big birthday party, the crowd was rewarding and a little surprising. They hope to build on the interest and they've formed an organization to do so.

Friends of David C. Barrow Elementary School is designed to help alumni and community members connect, and reconnect, with the school, said Barrow parent Callie Waller, one of those involved in the group.

"We would love these people to volunteer," she said. "Or if they can't volunteer, to give money to support the school, if they wish."

Donations would be used to purchase more playground facilities, fund field trips, enhance arts programs or help with teacher appreciation events. Volunteers can work in the media center, read to a class or lead a work team on the school grounds.

Of they can share a memory. To see the group's Facebook page, click here.