Measure for measure
Thon growth proof of success, ray of hope for committees

By SUSIE XU
Collegian Staff Writer

What began in the HUB Ballroom with 39 couples dancing for 30 hours has made its way to Rec Hall as a 48-hour nonstop event.

With a total of 630 dancers, almost 10 times as many participants as in 1973, the 1999 Interfraternity Council/Panhellenic Dance Marathon is the largest to date.

"The growth is absolutely wonderful. It's so nice to see so many people want to be involved," said Christopher Bach, overall operations chair.

Bach said there were many benefits of moving Thon to its new site, including more spectator and floor space. He added in the last four hours of the event last year, many spectators were turned away due to lack of space in the White Building.

"Rec Hall's a lot more conducive for seating a lot more people," Bach said.

Despite the fact Thon has rapidly outgrown two locations in 16 years, members of the organization are not concerned about making accommodations in the future.

Brian Newmark, overall Thon chair, said although he cannot speculate about the future, he is confident the organization will maintain control over the growing size of participation in the event.

"An increase in size is better for the organization. I hope to see it continue to grow and grow," Newmark said.

Penn State President Graham Spanier also encourages more involvement and enthusiasm in Thon because it will lead to higher funds raised for the children fighting cancer and their families, he said in an e-mail.

However, Spanier added he is concerned about the length of the event for the individuals involved.

"I don't think it would hurt Thon to have the event reduced in length by a few hours in the future," Spanier said.

The organization, which is also concerned about the dancers' well-being, conducts a meeting a few weeks prior to Thon weekend every year for the dancers.

During the meeting, important health issues, such as warnings for smokers, advice on eating balanced meals and tips for good sleeping habits are thoroughly addressed to prevent any health crises.

Potential dancers also are required to submit medical information when they register to participate.

Dan Stone, overall receptions chair and former Thon dancer, said he thinks the length of the event is appropriate.

"It's your choice to dance. You have to prepare yourself physically and mentally," Stone said, adding the 48-hour period is also very impressive to sponsors, which helps Thon gain support.

"Forty-eight hours is a goal and no one said it'd be easy, but it's a good thing to strive for," he said.