Gordon Orr, Beth Ann PrinceAlumni board members Gordon Orr and Beth Ann Prince hand out burgers during the Campus Community Barbecue, Thursday on the River Commons.

Sunny skies bless barbecue lunch

The University of Windsor loves a party.

In fact, people were so eager to enjoy Thursday’s campus community barbecue, they lined up for food at 11:30 a.m. in anticipation of the noon-time meal, says organizer Mary-Ann Rennie.

“We had a great time and a great turnout,” she said as catering staff descended to clean up Turtle Island Walk. “The weather couldn’t have been better and all the volunteer servers had a wonderful experience.”

Several new aspects proved welcome, Rennie said.

“It’s the first year we had brioche buns, which were terrific, and gluten-free buns for people who need them,” she said. “People really liked the Beyond Beef burgers — even some non-vegetarians were trying them because there has been so much hype.”

All the food, including 1,300 each of beef and vegan burgers, was gone by 1:30 p.m.

Rennie says she also heard from people who enjoyed the entertainment provided by Rose City Duelling Pianos, performing on the David Wilson Commons stage.

The event was also new to UWindsor president Robert Gordon, who greeted faculty, staff, and students who turned out for the celebration.