Union prepares for costume contest

   In an attempt to bring interactive entertainment to students, Union Services is planning on enlarging the range of the 2012 UTEP Halloween costume contest at the Union plaza.

The High Noon Music series will be hosting the event Oct. 31.

In previous years, the costume contest took place at the Dynamite Gaming Lounge at the Union.

Because of large crowds and the room’s renovation, Union Services decided to go along with the event’s expansion and bring it out to the plaza.

“The event started just for fun, and because of its great outcome in the past we are expanding it this year,” said Nicole Aguilar, Union Services assistant director.

Starting at 11:30 a.m. deejay Chris Neal will be playing live at the event. A special performance by the UTEP Allegro Dance Company will also take place. The contest will begin at noon and those interested in participating can sign up between 9-11:30 a.m.

“As of right now we have no limit to the number of contestants. We are expecting 20 to 30 people to participate,” Aguilar said.

UTEP students, faculty and staff are invited to be a part of the contest they have the option to participate individually or in groups. All participants will have to walk across the plaza stage in their costumes. The event is free as long as participants show up with a current UTEP identification.

A mix of students, faculty and staff will form the judging panel, who will grade contestants on a point system, as well as audience reaction. First, second and third place winners will receive prizes.

A 10 percent discount from El Cazo restaurant and a half-off discount from Dynamite Gaming will be rewarded to those who show up in costume to the event.

There are no limitations or rules as to what participants can wear.

“Students can show up in anything they are willing to wear,” Aguilar said. “It’s fun to see through the years how students dress up. It gives UTEP something to look forward to, and it is nice (to) recognize those who stood out and take their time to make their costumes.”

Pictures of those who attend the event will be posted on the Union Services Facebook page.

“It is fun for everybody to see your effort. Come on out and take a chance, you have nothing to lose,” Aguilar said.

For more information about the event, visit Union Services at Union Building East, Room 307, or call 747-5711.

Also visit the Union Services Facebook and Twitter for more updates.

“Students, faculty and staff should come and show their support,” Aguilar said. “It is important that students learn more about what we do on campus for them, we are always open to big ideas and more participation. This is for them.”

Vianey Alederete may be reached at prospector@utep.edu.