March 28, 2007

Agriculture college plans 'Spring Fling' on April 4

by K.C. Jaehnig

CARBONDALE, Ill. — Nothing says "spring" like a game of cow patty bingo — with the possible exception of a kiss-the-piglet contest.

Both events and a dunking booth will be on the program of the first-ever Spring Fling, a fundraiser to benefit Coach Jerry Kill's cancer fund. Put together by the Southern Illinois University Carbondale College of Agricultural Sciences Agbassadors, the Fling includes a barbecue dinner with side dishes. It takes place from 4 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, April 4, at the Student Pavilion on Pleasant Hill Road, with Leland Bunting, lead singer for the group Most Wanted, providing live music.

"We're trying to do a fun event that will bring people together," said Agbassador sponsor Luke D. Maxwell, noting that people don't have to be part of the ag college to attend.

Amanda L. Barczewski, a senior in agribusiness economics from DuBois, chairs the group's social committee and with fellow agbiz senior Tiffany D. Ochs from Olney, has taken on organizing the Fling.

"We tried to do something that we could get everyone involved in," Barczewski said.

"This is what we came up with, and so far, it's sounding good."

While admission, music and the food are free, the events carry small charges, and donation jars will be available for those who wish to donate to Kill's fund.

Sponsors for the event include Marlene Barczewski, Hartke Swine Center, Italian Village, Larry's Pit BBQ, Long John Silvers, The Maschhoffs Inc., Doug McCain's Gourmet BBQ Sauce, Panera Bread Co., Papa John's, Quatro's Pizza, Rotary Club of Carbondale-Breakfast, Schnuck's and the 710 Bookstore.