Caddystacks numbers weak, enthusiasm strong

Laughter and noise were the norm on April 1 and 4 as the 2nd annual Caddystacks event teed off.

The turnout was lower than last year, but the event was only open for two days compared to four last year. Moving the student day to the middle of the week when more students are on campus may also have affected turnout.

Caddystacks began as a fundraiser to get students and the community physically into the library by playing an 18-hole miniature golf course on all three floors. The design was found in a 1950s Popular Mechanics magazine. Lori Rognlie, assistant librarian II, and Jennifer Mills, president of the student chapter of Friends of Mabee Library, coordinated the event.

“Last year was a lot more stressful since it was the first time,” said Rognlie. “We have learned from our past experiences. Now it seems to run itself.”

The library would like to make as much as last year--$2,500--but with inclement weather and only two days to raise the money, Rognlie isn’t sure what the event will make. Sponsorship of individual holes was also down from last year due to the weak economy.

“Luckily we don’t have as many expenses because the course is already paid for,” said Rognlie.

The only expenses were the tournament prizes including a Nintendo Wii, advertising and invitations to key community leaders.

Whatever the profit, the library plans to use the money to keep improving the environment of the library so students continue to use it.