University's student picnic held indoors; rain doesn't deter crowds

An afternoon rainshower sent organizers scrambling to move the Southeast Missouri State University welcome-back picnic indoors on Sunday.

This was the first year the annual picnic -- typically held at Capaha Park -- was moved into the Student Recreation Center, said Southeast president Dr. Ken Dobbins.

Despite the change in location, approximately 2,100 students showed up for the free food and merchandise. The Chamber of Commerce University Relations committee sponsored the picnic and Chartwells provided food.

More than 50 businesses set up booths at the picnic, said Tim Arbeiter, vice president of the Chamber of Commerce.

"It's a really good way for businesses to get their names out to the college-aged individual," Arbeiter said. "It was a very good turnout even though it was inside."

During the picnic, Dobbins visited with students and asked if they were ready for school to begin -- classes at the University start today. "About 90 percent say they enjoyed their summer but are ready to be back," he said.

Freshmen Lindsey Shubert of Okawville, Ill., and Ashley Dahm of Belleville, Ill., said they were both ready to start college.

"I'm really excited. I just hope I can find my classes," Shubert said.

Both girls enjoyed the picnic, and stocked up on the freebies offered by local businesses. "We're getting school supplies," Dahm said. "I got pens, a little stapler, coupons. It's been great."

The picnic that started in the early 1990s has become the most popular activity during the opening week events, Dobbins said. "This is the social event for all the students," he said. "It's a great way for them to come back from summer and rekindle friendships."

jfreeze@semissourian.com

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