Turquoise posters with images of herons and marine creatures swimming through seaweed have surfaced on bulletin boards around campus. Yes folks, the Mississippi State Beta Upsilon Chi Island Party has made its triumphant return to campus.
Derek Cameron, senior industrial technology major and four year BYX member, said the event has changed over the years, but the intent has remained consistent.
“It originally was created to formally announce BYX’s founding. But since we’ve been on campus for over seven years now, we have it as a way to get the word out about BYX, and not only that, but more so to spread the love and message of Christ: his life, death and resurrection,” he said.
This year’s event features free food and drinks as in the past, but Cameron said this year’s musical lineup alone could make the shindig worth attending.
“This year you’ll have the opportunity to hear Moon Taxi and Aldea live, which will be pretty awesome in and of itself,” he said. “We have live music, free food and drinks and, in that atmosphere, it is just a great time to fellowship, hang out and get to meet other people.”
While Moon Taxi and Aldea are major focuses of the evening, Cameron said the event is as much about fellowship as the tunes.
“Moon Taxi is not too loud, but not too soft either, which will make a great atmosphere for socializing and hanging out with friends. Their music appeals to everyone, and is just fun to listen to,” he said.
The fact that a well-established band such as Moon Taxi is the headliner this year is a testament to the work of the members of BYX, fundraising for three months prior to the event, which is completely free. Grant Krag, junior political science major and vice president of BYX, said donations are accepted, but not to reimburse the fraternity in any way.
“Any donations or money collected from T-shirt sales will go to benefit the Palmer Home for Children in Columbus, Miss. Palmer Home is the local philanthropy of our BYX chapter,” he said.
For free food, free music and an opportunity to support the Palmer Home and appreciate the work done by BYX, visit the Wesley Foundation tonight at 6 p.m.