August 23, 2004

Alumni Association hosting football tailgates

by Greg Scott

CARBONDALE, Ill. -- Members of the Southern Illinois University Alumni Association are invited to gather at tailgates prior to each Saluki home football game.

The SIU Alumni Association will host members under its alumni tailgate tent, located on Saluki Row, north of the SIU Arena. Saluki Row will be the site for all tailgates, with the exception of the association's Homecoming alumni "Big Tent" celebration, which takes place east of McAndrew Stadium.

Members will gather three hours prior to game time. Attendees will enjoy complimentary food, beverages and music.

Members are welcome to attend all pre-game tailgates, including the annual member appreciation event, scheduled for Sept. 18. Non-members interested in attending the gatherings can join online (http://siualumni.com) or at the event. Membership is open to alumni, students and friends of the University.

Individual annual dues are $40, life memberships are $500 and installment life plans are available. Joint annual dues for couples are $60, life memberships $600, and installment life plans are available. Current and graduating SIUC students can join the association for a special rate of $15.

"Our members provide support for our many alumni programs on and off campus. Therefore, we strive to enhance the value of their investment in our organization," says Edward M. Buerger, executive director. "These tailgates serve as a means of bringing our alumni, students and friends together in support of the association and SIUC football."

Alumni members are entitled to many benefits. In addition to a subscription to alumni publications, they receive discounts on SIUC apparel, meals at several local and regional restaurants, hotels and car rentals.

For more information, call the SIU Alumni Association at 618/453-2408 or visit http://siualumni.com.