Friday morning began gray and rainy, hinting at the possibility of disaster for Spring Fever. Yet, despite the cold and rain throughout the day, Spring Fever began with a small crowd, and by the time the fireworks exploded there was a crowd of more than 1,000.
“The event was a big success considering the weather,” said Colin Tillman, Spring Fever Co-Chair. “Everyone on the Student Activities Board agreed that the people who attended wanted to be there and had a lot of fun.”
The MTV Campus Invasion Expo was moved to the Simon Recreation Center. MTV tore down early due to the lack of attendance at the Expo.
There were no inflatables this year because of the rain. Even after the rain stopped, the company providing the inflatables would not allow them to be put out because of the damp weather and the possibility of damage.
The rides, including a slide, swings, salt ‘n’ pepper shaker and scrambler, were a hit with the students, especially after the weather cleared, as there were steady lines most of the night.
Seniors Alyscha Johnson and Julie Hileman said that Fabolous was awesome and that the crowd was really pumped up for the event. “It was great, and we enjoyed the fireworks,” they added.
Freshman Jessi Culbertson said, “Spring Fever would have been better if the weather was good. But I had a lot of fun riding the rides, and I liked the student booths.”
Security was a big issue this year as all attendees’ bags were searched upon entering. In addition, there were security officers at the event and in the upper levels of the Laclede Parking Garage.
Undercover officers from the Missouri Department of Liquor Control issued six summons to minors for alcohol-related offenses Friday night. Four of the minors were SLU students.
Also, an individual not affiliated with the University was issued a summons for peace disturbance, for kissing a female student while she was listening to the music.
“SAB was unsure about the location, but it turned out better than expected, especially since we had to make use of Simon Rec,” Tillman said.
