This weekend, MC students welcomed their families and friends to campus. ASAP (Association for Student Activity Programming) provided many different activities for students and their visitors to enjoy. The Family Weekend festivities began on Friday, Sept. 26, at 8 p.m., as The Cavern Beat, a Beatles tribute band, entertained families with some classic songs. Additionally, the Scotsmen performed in Scotland Yard and members of the Zeta Beta Tau men’s fraternity performed on Dunlap Terrace.

     The major festivities started on Saturday, Sept. 27, when the quad filled with people and inflatable contraptions ranging from an obstacle course, to a gladiator joust, to an alien bounce. These provided entertainment for younger family members, as well as for Monmouth College students. A popular attraction was the balloon artist who not only made amazing balloon creations, but also added some humor to the afternoon. This was all complemented with a great fair-style cookout on the quad. There was everything from hot dogs and nachos, to popcorn and snow cones. Also on this day, the MC Fighting Scots football team was able to defeat the team from Carroll College. Later that night, parents and students were treated to a great concert presented by the music department, including the MC string ensemble, chorale and wind ensemble.

     Karen Ogorzalek, Associate Dean of Students and director of campus events, was very pleased with the weekend’s events. "The weekend could not have been better. The weather was beautiful. There were a record number of parents and family members in attendance…The members of ASAP put a lot of time and energy into the weekend, and I believe they played a major role in creating the festive atmosphere throughout the weekend," stated Ogorzalek.

     Not only were members of the faculty pleased, but also members of the student body. Senior Kim Muys commented on what her parents thought of the weekend, remarking, "My family enjoyed visiting on Family Weekend this year. Out of all four years, this has been their favorite year. They thought the activities scheduled were enjoyable, and thought that ASAP did a nice job planning everything. Their favorite part of Family Weekend this year was going to the football game. They were very impressed with the new stadium and thought the team looked great."

     Freshman Libby Gazda also enjoyed her Family Weekend. Gazda stated, "I liked the fact that my family was able to come and see the campus and see where I live, and see me, of course... I also like the fact that there was a concert for the music department, so the family could see that, too."

     The activities were fun for all and the Fighting Scots had a great game. Overall, Family Weekend 2008 was a delight for all attendees and participants.