First-ever PSU-ReBOT Tailgate
The first Blue/White game after Joe Paterno's passing was an emotional event for many alumni. Many bought blue and white carnations as a tribute to the Penn State coaching legend. The PSU-ReBOT tailgate team, led bravely by Maggie Harlacher, charmed her way past security posts early and were setting up when the gates officially opened!
Pre-game Festivities
The PSU-ReBOT tailgate location was broadcast as coordinates, on a map, on Twitter, facebook and this website ... before setup was complete! Many people stopped by, but not before witnessing the Woodrings Floral tribute drop at the bronze JoePa statue at 8:30 AM. Over 1,400 blue and white carnations were laid at the foot of the statue. The florist had tears in her eyes, as she brought over 100 arrangements out of nearby box trucks. Jay Paterno (JayPa) was there, along with Franco Harris and the media. Many more flowers arrived during the course of the morning and Pam Burg, the originator of the tribute idea, was interviewed and stopped by the PSU-ReBOT tailgate!
Later, Jay Paterno (@JayPaterno) tweeted, "Thanks so much to all the people leaving flowers at the statue today. It was very moving this morning. Hope all have a great day."
Approximately 60 candidates participated in the first-ever Trustee candidate "Meet and Greet", held in the Intramural Building, just beyond the carnival grounds. The greet lasted from 9:30 to 11:30 AM and after, a number of candidates stopped by our tailgate to say "Hi" and thank us for our involvement in setting up the event.
Good food, meeting new friends and traditional tailgating filled the rest of the morning, prior to the game.