SHERMAN, TEXAS — The Austin College chapter of Alpha Phi Omega National Service Fraternity will host the 10th annual “Great ’Roo Boo” for area children Saturday, October 31, from 6-8 p.m. in Sid Richardson Center of the Robert T. Mason Athletic-Recreation Complex, near the west end of campus. Children age 12 and younger are invited to attend and should be accompanied by an adult family member. There is no charge for ’Roo Boo activities. Austin College Police will patrol the event. 

The event, established as a safe alternative to trick-or-treating, will include booths hosted by more than 30 Austin College student organizations. Carnival Children are encouraged to wear Halloween costumes and join in the fun, said 2009 coordinators Allison Wurmbrand and Anna Engle.  More than 1,300 children and parents attended last year's event.   

Great 'Roo Boo 2008

A number of local businesses make donations of candy, prizes, and other support for the Austin College event. Major donors this year include First Texoma National Bank, DC's Lazer Tag and Games, Chipotle, Track's, MG's Restaurant, Cinemark, Independent Bank, Southern Maid Donuts, Panda Express, and Johnny Carinos.  

The Austin College chapter of Alpha Phi Omega was founded in 1970. The national co-educational service fraternity is dedicated to serving schools, communities, and the nation through fellowship, leadership development, and service to humanity. 

Austin College is a leading national independent liberal arts college located north of Dallas in Sherman, Texas. Founded in 1849, making it the oldest institution of higher education in Texas operating under original charter and name, the college is related by covenant to the Presbyterian Church (USA). Recognized nationally for academic excellence in the areas of international education, pre-professional training, and leadership studies, Austin College is one of 40 schools profiled in Loren Pope’s influential book Colleges that Change Lives.