The University Union will be transformed into a student fun-house tonight, in an event that will showcase everything the area has to offer.
The second annual May Mayhem will have something for everyone. Each aspect of the UU, including Backstage Pizza, Starbucks Coffee, Mustang Lanes and the Craft Center will be open and participating in the event.
“The event started last year and its purpose was to highlight all the programs within the UU,” ASI programs coordinator Michelle Curro said. “It was such a success and the collaboration between ASI, Student Life and Leadership and Campus Dining was so strong that we decided to do it again.”
Outside in the UU Plaza, three bands, including Dirty Sweet, The Silent Comedy and HBI will be performing on the stage throughout the night. Around 8 p.m., during a transition between bands, the 2009 ASI presidential election results will be announced in front of the crowd.
“Last year it was a coincidence that May Mayhem landed on the day of the election results,” Curro said. “It was such a success because it built up so much energy with the students, so we decided to announce the results again this year.”
ASI presidential candidates will be in attendance and are excited to hear the results with the rest of the students.
“I will definitely be there,” ASI presidential candidate Jon McElroy said. “I am looking forward to seeing how the students voted.”
Apart from the presidential unveiling, a slew of activities will be happening within the UU. The Craft Center will offer lessons in clay throwing, hand building and custom hemp bracelets.
Free cotton candy will be available in the new Rose Float office, which is next to the Craft Center. Outside, Poly Escapes will host a climbing competition on the rock wall.
Further art-related activities will be happening upstairs. UU room 220 will feature henna tattoos and a caricature artist. Free popcorn will be given out in the student government office.
Organizations inside the UU will be involved as well. The Multicultural Center will be sponsoring a Red Carpet Runway and the Pride Center is organizing a root beer pong competition.
“We tried to invite everybody in the area to participate and they are all excited,” Curro said. “Any space in the UU will be used.”
One of the largest and most popular attractions at May Mayhem will be laser tag in Chumash Auditorium. According to Curro, the student line for the laser tag arena was so long last year that two arenas will be set up tonight.
The event runs from 7-11 p.m. and is free for all students with a Poly card.