For the third consecutive year, Missouri Southern will be encouraging local businesses to support the University with the “Paint the Town Green and Gold” event.

“Paint the Town Green and Gold” is Southern’s way to increase school spirit and awareness around the city of Joplin. Participating businesses can receive an array of awards for showing the most Southern spirit, ranging from tickets to Homecoming all the way to a pregame video advertisement before the Homecoming game.

A number of departments on campus contribute to the event, including University Relations and Marketing, Student Activities and the Athletic Department.

Director of Student Activities Landon Adams says they have a clear idea of what they hope to accomplish through the challenge.

“Our goal is to provide an outlet for Joplin area businesses and organizations to show their MSSU pride during Homecoming week,” he said. “We also hope that the Missouri Southern community recognizes their efforts as MSSU supporters.”

While 12 different businesses competed in the challenge in 2013, as of Wednesday Sept. 17, more than 40 businesses were already signed up to participate in 2014. The huge increase is something Vice President of Student Affairs Darren Fullerton attributes to Adams.

“Landon has worked hard to get businesses excited to participate,” said Fullerton.

Adams believes the event has gone a long way in promoting camaraderie between the University and the town.

“It is a great opportunity for the city of Joplin and Missouri Southern to collaborate in support of students and student athletes,” he said. “We hope that by increasing school pride, we can also increase civic pride between Joplin and Missouri Southern,” said Adams.

The deadline for businesses to register for the event is Sept. 25. Businesses will be judged on Sept. 29 and 30.

Adams encourages everyone to support the event.

“This event is an outstanding opportunity for the Missouri Southern community to understand how much Joplin supports this institution,” said Adams. “It is always a phenomenal experience to see businesses put so much time and energy into something that ultimately is just showing their pride in Missouri Southern.”