Be Out Day will go on this Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., but without sponsorship.
The annual event, which will be located behind the Benjamin L. Perry Building, is funded through the Student Government Association Activities and Services fund.
According to Senate President Ricquel Jackson, the event will operate on a budget of $40,000 this year.
While the allocated funds are different for each fiscal year, the average range is from $40,000 to $60,000.
“The difference is sponsorships. We have none,” Jackson said. “Even the career expo had low attendance. Companies are laying people off and only sponsoring their own events these days. It’s the economy,” said the senate president.
Be-Out is a day for students and local residents to interact, play games, activities and enjoy a free concert.
Despite the lack of ‘extra’ funds, some students are still looking forward to the event..
“It’s good times,” said Sibyl Jeune, 20, a food science student from Fort Lauderdale. “I especially enjoy[ed] the one with Trick Daddy. I’ll probably be out to the one Saturday, too,” said Jeune.
“We are expecting at least 300 people,” Jackson said. “There will be events and games for children and adults as well as carnival style foods including hamburgers, funnel cake and fish.”
As planning for the event progressed, negotiations were still in progress in regards to special guests. However, a special guest is expected to be present at the event.
“I think it’s going to be great.” It’s going to be an event that family and friends can enjoy,”
said Jackson.