By Colter Hettich, Features Editor
The ground between Moody Coliseum and McKinzie Hall will transform into a playground for all ages Friday afternoon. If participants think they know what to expect, a 25-foot inflatable Elvis might make them think again. The 2008 Homecoming Carnival, which will be from 5-8 p.m. on Saturday, will offer visitors and regulars of ACU campus three hours of fun, traditional carnival foods and a surprise musical guest.
In the early ’90s, social club members operated every attraction. Alumni event coordinator Jama Cadle, who has worked as the event coordinator for eight years, said she now relies on student involvement to help run the carnival.
“We just saw a need because students in club are stretched pretty thin this time of year,” Cadle said. “We kind of kicked it up to a different level but we still really rely on students.”
For $3, visitors, students, faculty and alumni will receive a wristband that earns them endless action throughout the carnival, as queues allow. But students, faculty and staff arriving between 4:30-5 p.m. can purchase their wristbands at a discounted $2.
“I really would love to see more students participate,” Cadle said. “It’s a fun event, and there is something for everybody.”
A petting zoo, four facepainting stations and three bounce houses are sure to draw children, but students and adults will not be left out. Laser tag, an obstacle and seven inflatable games, including a Velcro wall and rock wall, will give the older crowd a chance to have fun as well.
For those who do not fancy such attractions, this year’s carnival food should provide a few reasons to attend. Traditional carnival foods, like turkey legs, sausage-on-astick and cotton candy, will be sold individually. Students also will be able to enjoy the same items inside the “World Famous Bean” for the cost of a meal plan. Students eating the Bean food can choose to eat inside or under the big top outside.
More than 500 wristbands were sold last year, and Cadle said she hopes to see even
more attend Friday.
