Pembroke Day brings in record crowd despite two-week rain delay

By Laura Mininno
Staff Writer

Pembroke Day was held Sept. 28 on the quad hosting over 150 vendors, boasting the event’s biggest crowd yet.

Rescheduled due to rain, Pembroke Day was originally set for Sept. 14, but the new date ended up working out better for the celebration, according to Chancellor Allen C. Meadors.

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“It’s wonderful!” Meadors said, “Folks who couldn’t make it to the previous date ended up coming to this one, so it worked out even better.”

Meadors said Pembroke Day is all about showcasing the students and community. It also helps new students get comfortable with campus and familiarize themselves with local businesses.

“The vendors can also learn what the students need and maybe update their services,” Meadors said.

Not only is the annual celebration a good chance to pursue local businesses, but it also gives students an opportunity to socialize.

“This is a great chance to catch up with old friends,” said UNCP concert choir member Chris Owens.

Among the many organizations, the Baptist Student Union held a “Jail-a-thon” fundraiser that allowed students to put someone in a jail cell behind the BSU booth. The bond was set at a minimum of $1 for those who were unlucky enough to find themselves behind bars.

Also jailed was Dr. Judy Curtis by her husband Dr. Tony Curtis, both from the Mass Communications department.

Face painting, caricatures and snow cones were some of the many activities available to students and Pembroke residents as they walked through the quad.

Putting together an event like Pembroke Day is fairly easy, but it’s all about the timing, scheduling the events, plotting out where the booths go and letting everyone know in time for the event, according to Meadors.