Pirates, bunnies and cowgirls roamed Gorton Quad while an alien dancing to Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” entertained the children from the child development program and City College students at this year’s Associated Students Halloween Bash on Oct 29.

The quad was crowded with energetic student leaders dressed in their favorite costumes handing out candy and inviting attendees to participate in the Halloween inspired contests.

Several campus clubs participated with a trick or a treat for guests who attended the festivities. Meanwhile, the disc jockey kept the music playing throughout the afternoon as students, ASG members and guests danced, sang and competed in karaoke contests.

Spooky ghosts lurked in the shadows of the haunted house inside the Associated Students quarters, while on the other end of the courtyard, big splashes were made every time someone was dropped into the dunk tank.

“We want students to interact and get involved. We hope that with these types of events students can become aware of the different clubs and services that City has to offer,” shouted Inter Club Council Vice President Beto Vasquez over the loud music.

Paola Martinez from the Amnesty International Club and Naomi Santacruz member of Visionary Feminist entertained the child development children with cookie and cupcake decorating.

Over at Puente’s booth, a Fear Factor challenge was set up for those who were brave enough to try it; participants had to stick their hands down a box and try to guess what was inside: blood, guts, vomit, eyeballs or diarrhea.

The cosmetology department did face paintings, “the most requested amongst kids was the butterfly design,” reported cosmetology student Fetsum Fantaye as she finished painting a mime.

At the dunking tank, students got a chance to drop English professor Patricia McGhee into the cold water.

“I told her I was sorry before my second throw, because I knew I was going to drop her; It felt exciting,” said City student Joselin Fuller.

The Fellowship of Associated Gay Students and Straight Allies club had a “pin the tail on the werewolf” activity with bags filled with candy for the winners.

“Even though this year is harder than others, we are still here” said June Cressy president of the classified senate charity.

Pacific Organization for the Study of Supernatural Events (POSSE) held a variety of games at their booth: ring toss, pumpkin head toss, drinking man’s game and a karaoke contest.

The smell of burning sage at the Spanish Club’s “Dia de Los Muertos” altar was penetrating; bread, tequila, candles and other typical Mexican offerings were on the altars display.

Larissa Dorman, faculty advisor for BEAT, and fellow members were sharing their upcoming events at their booth; their events are usually held every other Wednesdays in B-104.

Zombies, tortured war prisoners and vampires entered the costume contest but the prize for best costume was awarded to Minnie Mouse and the Dungeon Master from the Playboy Mansion.

“It was a better than expected turn out overall,” said Cynthia Michalas, ASG public event coordinator.

ASG and student clubs can be reached at (619) 388-3412 or in room D-105.