Catamount spreads school spirit the country way through hot fashion, good food and lots of laughs.
On Thursday, October 20, the highly anticipated Homecoming events of 2011 finally kicked off at Western Carolina University. A float-building event was held on the U.C. Lawn from 5-8.30p.m. Students filled the lawn, carrying giant pieces of cardboard and colorful pots of paint to create the most flamboyant float they could come up with.
Lining the lawn were several stands, giving away free pizza, offering students the chance to tie-dye Catamount sweatshirts and build their very own stuffed animal.
“It’s a great way to get the students actively working together on campus to bring out the true Catamount pride and show off our university in all its glory!” said Shannon Parrott, a student who was busy building her float.
Adding to the atmosphere were a group of cheerleaders performing in the fountain area, tossing their pompoms, chanting the fight song and pepping up Western’s purple pride.
Also featured at the event were several comedians, including Mark Evans, Matthew Lumpkin and Jessica Campbell. Mark Evans of Atlanta opened with his act “Southern not Stupid” in which he explored some stereotypes people from other places have about the south and the southern culture. He then dismissed these, saying “The whole world is stupid, not just the south!” This provided good entertainment for the students as they worked and built up a happy atmosphere of chattering and laughter.
Overall, this was a bright, fun and successful way to kick-start the Homecoming events of 2011 at WCU. Smiling faces dominated the crowd at the Float Building Party. This event will be remembered with keep-sakes of festive floats, bold clothing and cuddly new companions.
Sammy Stedem contributed to the story and created the slideshow.
