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2014 Helen C. House Party

The Gomers
The Gomers back up a member of Pitches & Notes

The 6th annual Helen C. House Party went to a whole ‘nother level – decibel level that is – when local Madison institution The Gomers rocked the Main Stage on the library’s 2nd floor, entertaining those waiting in food lines with their unique version of karaoke – Rock Star Gomeroke! Members of the a cappella group Pitches & Notes performed solo and then joined The Gomers for a rocking version of a Beyoncé classic. With hundreds of songs to choose from, students and House Party attendees belted out numbers by Journey, Bon Jovi, The Clash, Stevie Wonder, and, naturally, Neil Diamond’s Sweet Caroline.

Karoake
Performing a classic by Stevie Wonder

Not wanting to deny old favorites, the House Party also featured its traditional selection of carnival games and prizes, balloon art, team trivia, face painting, video games (including special guests from Games+Learning+Society), arts & crafts & hacks, a retro photo booth, and additional live entertainment.

One of the more popular events, Human Foosball, converted the Ethnic Studies Reading Room into a netted court where a team of players, anchored to PVC pipe, move from side to side in their effort to score a goal on the opposing team. Members of Sector 67 were on hand to demonstrate soldering, catapult-making, and their 3D printer, while staff from The Bubbler showcased animation stations.

Design-your-own-tote-bag
Design-your-own-tote-bag

The Arts & Crafts section of the House Party brought back classics such as “Design-Your-Own-Tote-Bag” and the library’s button maker, but included new crafts including duct tape wristlets, Washi-tape creations, and sand-filled Ninja stress balls.

College Library is humbled by support for this event from both the campus and community. It would not be possible without subsidies from the Center for the First-Year Experience and the Gaus Fund. We also appreciated the food donations from Pizza Hut, Pepsi, Canteen Vending, Ian’s Pizza, Glass Nickel Pizza, Milio’s, Potbelly Sandwich Shop, and Domino’s. Thanks also to Qdoba who donated 100 coupons for a free entree – available as a carnival prize.

Last year's popple winners return to claim this year's grand prize as well!
Last year’s popple winners return to claim this year’s grand prize as well!

As an official Welcome Week event, the Helen C. House Party encourages students to get acquainted with College Library and each other. Planning is underway for the 7th annual House Party in September 2015.

For more photos of this Helen C. House Party, see our dedicated Flickr album.