Thon Gets A New Look For 2000

February 9, 2000
University Park, Pa. -- Penn State students began the spring canning drive for the Penn State Intrafraternity Council/Panhellenic Dance Marathon (THON) last weekend and will continue to raise money this weekend in anticipation of the big event in Rec Hall, Feb. 18-20. THON is the nation's largest student-run philanthropy, uses the power of dance to raise millions for families coping with pediatric cancers.

Last year THON raised a record $2.5 million for the Four Diamonds Fund for cancer research and support of families with children being treated at the Children's Hospital of The Milton S. Hershey Medical Center. This year, with the number of dancers approaching 700, hopes are high for another success.

In addition to the usual music, dancing, speeches, and videos, THON 2000 will feature a stylish new attraction--a Tommy Hilfiger fashion show. Just last week THON organizers received confirmation of the company's support, and plans are already in place to recruit Penn State students to model in the show.

On Friday, Feb. 11, Jack Rich, Tommy Hilfiger "stylist extraordinaire," will conduct a student casting call at Kaufmann's Department Store in State College. During THON weekend, selected students along with 10 professional models will participate in the Saturday afternoon fashion show. Tommy Hilfiger will also deliver a video address to dancers and spectators.

Tommy.com, the Tommy Hilfiger Website, will offer the THON experience to supporters outside University Park as well. Through links from Tommy.com to the official THON site, Internet users will be able to make donations or view the marathon live on-line.

Despite THON's new fashion look, students have not forgotten the real purpose of the event. Walt Breuninger, THON public relations chair, explained the significance of this year's theme--Love Never Fails.

"The theme came from one of the Four Diamonds fathers speaking during Family Hour," Breuninger noted. "It's a recognition that a lot of things can fail--modern medicine can fail--but that love never fails. Even families who have lost loved ones to cancer keep coming back to THON year after year, and that's really a testament to the power of that theme."

For more information, to make donations, or to view THON live on-line, see the THON Website at http://www.thon.org.

**cek**

Contact: Walt Breuninger (814) 876-3609 or