By Cathryn Buecker
Staff Writer
SPRINGFIELD ― After only four weeks at Lincoln Land, students(edit A) have learned that absolutely no event is complete without a popcorn stand. Last Friday’s Loogerpalooza certainly had that, as well as several other interesting vendors.
Taking place in the A.Lincoln Commons, Loggerpalooza brought together local profit and nonprofit vendors, who had a chance to showcase opportunities for Lincoln Land students. (edit A)
Representatives from businesses and organizations included Life Goes On, Vibra Hospital and PNC, handing out pamphlets and other goodies. Among the vendors were several Lincoln Land clubs. Also, the Center for Academic Success had a booth.
Most noticeably, a large cardboard cutout of Abraham Lincoln read, “Selfies with Abe.” Anyone could come up, grab a grass skirt or a lei, and pose with the former president, or at least, his cardboard likeness.
Right in the middle of all the business vendors was the Celts booth, sporting ample amounts of green and plenty of spirit.
“Join the team!” said Molly Driver, one of the several individuals running the booth.
The Celts are a local rugby football club. The teams practice at Kennedy Park on Mondays and Wednesdays.
About Loogerpalooza, Eileen Figueroa, another Celts representative, said that she liked the event.
“It’s a great way to get students to interact,” she said.
Amid the smell of popcorn and the chatter of the vendors and students, the sounds of local musician Matt Combs filled the commons.
“I had a good time out here,” he said.
Combs, the one-man-band at the event, sang and played covers, as well as a few of his own songs. Every song was followed by avid applause, from students and vendors alike.
The heavy rain towards the afternoon brought in many more students, soaking wet and suddenly eager to get their hands on some of that popcorn. They gathered to hear the music and to also check out the booths.
All in all, Loogerpalooza looked to be a success. Many students came, saw and walked away with a better understanding of the many services available to them. That, or at the very least, they walked away with free food, which every college student will agree is worthwhile.
Cathryn Buecker can be reached at [email protected].