The Unified Black Student Society and the Stockton Entertainment Team hosted an incredible event on Saturday, August 29, 2015, entitled the Osprey Kick-Off. The activities were offered from 3:00 to 6:00 PM. These activities included a make a teddy bear stand, a Tiki Bar, a sign making stand, a caricaturist, a Dippin’ Dots stand, stands for both sponsoring clubs, a disc jockey, free giveaways and volleyball. With so many fun events to chose from, students were entertained for all three hours.

At the make a teddy bear stand, participants waited in a long line to create their newest best friend. There were four choices available including a white bear, a black bear, a light brown bear, and a dark brown bear. Participates stuffed the bear themselves and completed the activity by sewing the belly button of the bear closed. The first students to participate also received a shirt for their bears.

At the Tiki Bar, virgin pinta coladas, strawberry daiquiris, and fruit juice slushes were served. Students could select any of the half dozen flavors or try them all! Nearby was the Dippin’ Dots stand. This stand was popular, but closed only about a half an hour into the festivities. Many students were disappointed, as they had high hopes of enjoying everything that was advertised.

The sign-making stand was yet another success. Students loved selecting a template and message and having the staff create a one-of-a-kind sign for them. The products took over a hour to be completed and made; however, one could do other activities as she waited.

The last craft activity of the day was the caricaturist. He was a skilled artist and could recreate anyone. Not one student was unhappy with his drawing. The line was long, with some students waiting over an hour to receive attention. These portraits are the perfect addition to a residence hall room!

The two clubs sponsoring the events both offered stands. These stands offered giveaways, such as foam fingers, hand sanitizing spray, T-shirts and pens. They also had information about the clubs and information on how to join their club or participate in activities their club offers.

The disc jockey was an invaluable addition to the event. She provided music through the entire event, even as the end approached. Students enjoyed dancing to music such as the Wobble and Watch Me. By five thirty, the students still at the event flocked to this area. It was clearly the most popular activity open by this time.

Students could also enjoy the typical activities on the quad, including frisbee and volleyball. Many students were content to simply visit with others and make friends.

The festivities were well planed and organized. They encouraged all students to interact and feel at home as new Ospreys!