The Associated Students of Modesto Junior College continue to demonstrate their lively (or perhaps, deadly) holiday spirit by sponsoring their eighth annual Halloween Carnival and Haunted House extravaganza today, held at Modesto Junior College’s West Campus, 2201 Blue Gum Ave. The event begins at 2 p.m. and thoroughly finishes off their black magic at 9 p.m.

The family-oriented event has proven to be a success throughout the years, and continues to bring a crowd of admirers from every age imaginable (so please, no ghastly costumes).

Laura Dyrssen, the vice president of activities and a member of the Associated Students Senate of Modesto Junior College, is enthused about gaining a bigger crowd than ever this year. She said the student organization has increased the list of activities, and catered to the public’s choice of entertainment for this year’s carnival. She also stated that the event took three months of persistent planning, and remains to be one of the largest programs that ASMJC funds for the general community.

“The carnival is a way to reach out to the community (and) to support the students of Modesto Junior College,” Dyrssen said.

The Halloween Carnival and Haunted House features live performances, including a magic show performed by Jarrod the Science Wizard. Local bands, such as Hardwired, No Hate, Muir, and Table for Five, and Mr. Rodgers, will also be present as volunteers for the event in exchange for free publicity, and a chance to show off their “killer” skills as musicians.

Aside from the live performances are crafts, games for all ages, alongside a cake walk, a costume contest, a pumpkin decorating station, food booths, spooky storytelling, and a ghoulish ghost hunting demonstration. The event is free, but some activities, such as games, food, and the Haunted House require tickets. Tickets are 25 cents apiece, or $1 for five tickets.

Most of the profits from the Halloween carnival will go toward the costs for future Halloween happenings. Proceeds will also benefit student clubs and games.



— BROOKE BORBA / 209 reporter