The Show-Me Sunsplash Fest graced the Astroturf mall on campus
on Sept. 18. Jamaican music floated above campus and the
unmistakable scent of curried goat was in the air. The only thing
missing was about 7,000 people.

“The turnout as far as SLU is concerned was good,” said Donna
Bess, director of the Cross Cultural Center, who co-hosted the
event with the Office of Student Life and African and Caribbean
Faces, Inc.

Last year the event was held at Kiener Plaza, and about 10,000
people attended. Bess said that there were about 250-300 SLU
students who attended the event, making for an approximate total of
3,000 attendees.

Sunsplash was publicized on three different radio stations, as
well as on local TV stations, but several factors accounted for the
small crowd.

While the festival was free with student ID for SLU students, it
was the first time the general public was charged an admission
fee.

There were three other major events that day; a Cardinals game,
an Usher concert and the annual Forest Park Balloon Race, all of
which may explain the disappointing body count.

Those who did attend enjoyed the live music, excellent food and
various vendors that dotted the ‘turf.

The fare included fried plantains, turkey legs, shrimp, jerk
chicken and, surprisingly, hot dogs.

Junior Dale O’Neill, said that she loved everything about the
day, from the booths selling every piece of Bob Marley
paraphernalia imaginable, to handmade crafts.

“I love the Jamaican jerk chicken and red beans and rice, I love
the art and all the music,” she said excitedly.

The non-stop live reggae music was a lovely addition to the
fete-setting the tone of cultural acceptance and peace that was
palpable throughout the day.

Freshman Mitesh Patel, loved the music so much he decided that
it was a good place to study.

“I think I’m going to sit here with my bio book,” said Patel.
“It’s better than sitting in front of a lot of books in the
library. I love reggae.”

A few brave SLU students busted a move for about five seconds,
before deciding to leave the dancing to those with rhythm. Overall,
the event was a success and enjoyed by the people present.

“The vendors were pleased, the food was wonderful, and the day
was vibrant,” said Bess.