MSU announces United Way tailgate party Friday

Contact: Maridith Geuder

STARKVILLE, Miss.--In support of the local 2009 United Way fund-raising campaign, Mississippi State University is sponsoring its first "United Way Tailgate."

Taking place 11:30 a.m.-1:15 p.m. Friday [Oct. 10] at the Junction under the Big Top tent, the festive get-together will help launch weekend activities leading to Saturday's Southeastern Conference football game with Vanderbilt University at Davis Wade Stadium.

The lunchtime event will feature $5 plates of barbecue and all the trimmings.

"We will be offering barbecue chicken, a variety of salads, chips, baked beans, cookies, and beverages that have been generously donated by MSU Dining Services," said Jimmy Abraham, this year's United Way chair.

The meal will be accompanied by the performance of popular local musician Bill Cooke, Abraham added.

"It's a great partnership in support of a great cause," Abraham said, adding that all proceeds are being donated to United Way of North Central Mississippi.

Faculty, staff, students, and guests who purchase a barbecue plate also will receive a discount coupon for Barnes and Noble. With it, faculty and staff will receive an additional 10 percent on their existing discount, and students and guests will receive a 10 percent discount.

The special offer covers MSU clothing and gift items, and is valid Friday only.

The local United Way represents 21 agencies in Oktibbeha County and surrounding areas. For more information, visit www.unitedway.msstate.edu.

For more information, contact Abraham at 662-325-7000.

For more information about Mississippi State University, see http://www.msstate.edu/.