With finals around the corner, dreams of spending free time enjoying free food, entertainment, games and hanging out with fellow Rattlers sound pretty far-fetched. Fortunately for students on the Hill, Be Out Day 2004 will give them exactly what they need- a chance to relax before the end of the semester.
Be Out Day was created in 1993 to bring members of the community and FAMU students together to enjoy various forms of entertainment. The annual event is held on FAMU’s intramural field. It provides students with an opportunity to socialize with peers and enjoy complimentary drinks and toiletries from the festival’s primary sponsors, Kimberly-Clark and Coca-Cola.
SGA president-elect Virgil Miller recalled having an enjoyable time at last year’s Be Out Day.
“I remember Be Out Day as a positive time where students [would] come out, relax and have fun,” said SGA president-elect Virgil Miller.
The 22-year-old public health graduate student from West Palm Beach said he expects nothing but good things from the event.
This year’s festival will feature ten performances from local and campus singers, dancers and comedians.
The festival will also feature appearances from Miami based rapper Luke Campbell and state Rep. James Harper, D-West Palm Beach.
Harper and Campbell will promote “Movement Tour,” a hip-hop voter awareness initiative.
Festival attendees can also expect a special guest appearance from Mississippi rapper David Banner.
Also, for the first time in event’s history, a concert will precede the festivities. On Friday, Chicago rapper Twista will perform in Gaither Gymnasium.
Organizers for the festival said making Be Out Day a reality has not been easy. This year’s event offers a lot more food, activities, and more freebies from vendors for the community.
“It was hard work and took a lot of preparation,” said Brandi Tatum, student coordinator for Be Out Day.
The 22-year-old elementary education student from Gulfport, Miss. said there will be a lot to expect at this year’s Be Out Day.
King of Orange and Green Deandre Etherly will serve as emcee for both Be Out Day and the concert.
Etherly said he is excited about the show.
“The festival is an opportunity for people to see students interacting in a positive setting,” said the 22-year-old industrial engineering student from Dallas.
In addition to the opportunity for students to relax and socialize, Be Out Day also gives interested students a chance to get community service hours.
If you are interested in volunteering, e-mail beoutday2k4@yahoo.com to get more information.