Western Courier

Issue date: 8/29/08 Section: News

Media Credit: Stacey Howe Western students Mike Depa, 19, and Topher Mortimer, 20, toss some bags at the CUPP Block Party

Wednesday afternoon marked the fifth annual Community-University Partnership Program Block Party. The festivities held on the Sherman Hall lawn included music, raffles, free food and games.

Organized by Western Illinois University and CUPP, the festival centered on welcoming new and returning students, but also served as an important means for the campus to familiarize itself with the Macomb community.

Various campus organizations co-sponsored the event, providing community members with additional opportunities to meet fellow citizens in a relaxed, laid-back environment.

Local businesses also took part in promoting the interconnected ties between Western Illinois and Macomb citizens. Information tables advertising injury rehabilitation services, graphic design companies and spa resorts were set up. The University of Illinois Extension Program, organized by Western Illinois internal auditing director Rita Moore, offered information on various cultural services offered by the school.

Bill Jacobs, a chairperson for CUPP, seemed satisfied with the overall outcome of the block party.

"Our main purpose as an organization is to bring the community and Western together through events such as the block party,"



Jacobs said. "It's about promoting relationships between students and staff alike, but is also centered on bringing together the entire community. While our values center on promoting diversity, rights and community involvement, we are gearing towards providing attendees with the atmosphere of in a small-town environment."

Jacobs also said he looks forward to next year's festivities and holds great expectations.

Garry Johnson, vice president of Student Services, said the organization's efforts have maintained a positive impression on the Macomb community.

"I believe more credibility has been provided for the organization as a result of recent improvements and additions," Johnson said.

"We have Macomb to thank for providing the opportunity for our continued success."

Throughout the years CUPP's block party has made significant progression. Macomb Mayor Mick Wisslead started the fest, which initially served as a source of pure entertainment for a small Illinois town.

In the past, Western alumni have developed the CUPP mission: one that began as a welcoming celebration and has become one of the most noted campus organizations.

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