PPC’s Fall Fest entertains

There were more than students blocking traffic on Bigelow Boulevard Saturday afternoon,… There were more than students blocking traffic on Bigelow Boulevard Saturday afternoon, when Pitt Program Council’s annual Fall Fest filled the area between the William Pitt Union and the Cathedral of Learning with sumo wrestlers, bands and a giant rock climbing wall.

The festival began at noon and featured a pie-eating contest, games, and several musical performances, including Blessid Union of Souls, the Mind Boxing Alliance and two local bands, Justin and Foolproof.

The pie-eating contest was open to the public, and participants received free pie and a chance at a cash prize. First place went to Ira Kohn.

Among those assisting in the festival’s set-up were Pitt Program Council members and students enrolled in Pitt’s Emerging Leader Program. Freshman Michelle Bloss spent two five-hour shifts assisting with the setup of the stage and other equipment at the festival.

“We ran up the blow-up slide and went down. We put on the sumo suit and ran into each other. It was actually really fun,” Bloss said.

Pitt’s chapter of the Society of Automotive Engineers also drew onlookers with last year’s racing car, which competed against cars from all over in world in Detroit. The car accelerates from 0 to 74 mph in four seconds, senior Pete Walsh said. It didn’t place in last year’s competition because of engine trouble.

“This car didn’t do too well,” engineering student Derek D. Knight said, “but this year we’re going to be in the top 10 again.” Knight said that two years ago, Pitt placed ninth in the world.

The festival was open to the public, and by mid-afternoon, when the bands took the stage, the street was packed.

“I think it was a really good idea to get people out and involved,” sophomore Melissa Priori said.

Sophomore Priti Patel added that the festival was a way “to get out and see local talent.”

But Pitt students weren’t the only ones who enjoyed the festival. Eric, Pa., native Devan Hudson summed up the festival in a single word.

“Cool,” said the 7-year-old, holding up his prize from the Frisbee toss.