Dr. Melissa Pratt (left) explains use of computer software. Pictured with her are Rotary's President-Elect Mike Herron and After-School Director Wendy Watts.

September 15, 2009

There will be something beyond playtime and supervision for children from Scott-Teays and Eastbrook in the new After-School Center to be operated by the Teays Valley Church of God.

The new center will offer help with homework and opportunities for learning enrichment through a grant by Putnam Rotary for computer software.

The gift was funded through the "Happy Dollars" program which became a part of weekly luncheon meetings of the club some five years ago: For a dollar, a luncheon member or guest announces special occasions, thanksgivings and blessings. But fines for cell-phone interruptions during the meeting, or similar breaches of decorum, are added to the pot, although the occasion may be less than happy.

Dr. Melissa Pratt, Senior Pastor at the Scott Depot church explained that the After-School Center will operate in a loving and Christian atmosphere and will be open to children of all faith traditions.

In addition to an afternoon snack, students will have access to a variety of games, movies, group activities, and space to work on homework, Pratt told the group.

The After-School Center will operate at the Teays Valley Church of God at 4430 Teays Valley Road, one mile east of Scott-Teays School.

The program will run on all school days from 2:15 to 6:00 p.m.

For more information call 304-757-9222.

The next Happy Dollar project for Rotary is Christmas blankets for the children of military servicemen serving in Iraq.

The club will be helping to make some of the blankets, at its second Tuesday meeting in November.

Persons interested in donating money or fleece for the blanket project can contact Tina McComas at 304-638-3493.