Staff Writer

During these times of high fuel costs and other rising prices, purchasing school supplies can be a real challenge, Miss Union Jessica Beam said.

In an effort to help local families who might be struggling to buy notebooks, pens, pencils, book bags and other items, Miss Beam and Miss Union County Teen Amber Champion will be in the parking lot at Wal-Mart Saturday collecting school supplies. They hope to “Fill a Bus” with supplies. WSPA-TV weatherman and Union County native Jack Roper is expected to make an appearance.

The drive will be held from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m.

“And this is (sales) tax free weekend, too,” Miss Beam said. “All of the supplies collected will stay in Union County.”

The supplies collected will be distributed evenly among all public schools in Union County

Miss Beam and Miss Champion made their first official public appearance together Tuesday during the Union Rotary Club's lunch meeting.

On Aug. 9, they will appear during a Team Aruba/Food Lion fund-raiser for Autism Speaks, which will be held from 8 a.m. until 1 p.m. at Food Lion. Hot dog plates will be sold and a silent auction will be held. Proceeds will go to a walk to benefit autism research and awareness, which will be held in October.

On Aug. 11, Miss Beam and Miss Champion will throw out the first pitch during the Greenville Drive Baseball Game at 6:50 p.m.