The first day of school came a day early for freshmen at Blythewood High School as they were invited to an abbreviated ‘first day’ on Tuesday before the official opening of Richland 2 schools on Wednesday. The theme for the day, which was far more fun than most first days of school, was a ‘60s beach bash. A huge Bengal tiger and two rows of upperclassmen led by Athletic Director Vince Lowry, left, welcomed the newcomers with cheers, applause and high-five’s. Accompanying parents were turned back at the Tiger as Lowery shouted ‘Welcome to the world!’ to arriving freshmen.