FRANKLIN
Each February, the Rotary Club of Franklin hosts its annual bowl-a-thon to fund the philanthropic activities, including the presentation of scholarships and donations to nearly two dozen charitable organizations throughout the community.

The event, which will include door prizes and a chance to win $5,000 for bowling a perfect game, will be at 1 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 7, in the Franklin Bowling Center, 1327 Armory Drive.

All proceeds will benefit area organizations, such as the YMCA, Colonial Virginia Council of Boy Scouts of America, American Legion Post 73, Franklin Cooperative Ministry, American Red Cross, Habitat for Humanity, Blackwater/Nottoway Riverkeeper Program, Western Tidewater Free Clinic, Smart Beginnings, The Children’s Center, Bright Beginnings, and the Franklin High School DECA and Robotics teams. The club will also present three scholarships, one to a student at PDCCC, and two to graduating high school seniors.

“All of the money we raise goes right back into the community,” said Michael Clark, president of the Rotary Club and owner of Real Country 101.7 WLQM.

The club’s sole fundraising event of the year, the bowl-a-thon could not happen without the support all of its sponsors – including Paul D. Camp Community College, International Paper, Real Country 101.1 WLQM, The Village at Woods Edge, Dr. Dylan Belt, O.D., Repair Tech and The Tidewater News.

“Our sponsors have stepped up and increased their donations,” Clark said. “That’s how much they understand what we’re doing and see the impact that our club and this event are making in the community.”

Thanks to their donations, the event has already raised more money than in any year past.

“Last year, we raised just over $25,000,” said Tony Clark, chairman of the bowl-a-thon and publisher at The Tidewater News. “This year, I told the club that our goal was $30,000 and, as of today, we’ve exceeded last year’s total and we’re closing in on our goal.”

For those interested in helping the Rotary Club of Franklin reach its bowl-a-thon goals, there are a number of different sponsorship opportunities available. The club is still looking for teams to fill lanes, as well. For more information contact Tony Clark at 562-3187.