By Deborah Burnham, junior

Break out the limousines and call the paparazzi — Friends University is “Goin’ Hollywood” for Cherry Carnival 2012.

The week’s events have been a smashing success, beginning with Monday’s Hollywood Premier Lunch in the Casado Dining Room. The FACE Special Events Committee offered students the chance to customize movie posters and purchase the product for $2 a poster. Later that evening, Celebrity Impressionist Melissa Villasenor delighted an audience in the Sebits Auditorium with her comedy act.

The comedian’s show — a first for Friends University — was free for faculty, staff and students.

On Tuesday — Valentine’s Day — the Casado Dining Room was transformed from a simple cafeteria into a romantic eatery for Love Songs at Lunch, the day’s Cherry Carnival event. An ensemble of student instrumentalists and vocalists crooned tunes like “Fly Me To The Moon” for appreciative diners during the midday meal.

Wednesday’s event was an Oscar Night, a contest featuring short movies created by Friends students. The winner of the video competition, hosted by Nicole Ujita, was a spoof of the movie “The Breakfast Club,” titled “The Brunch Club.” Those who attended also got to participate in games such as a Trivia contest and Six Degrees of Kevin Bacon. The games host was Casey Adams.

The week may be nearly over, but there is more Hollywood fun to come. Tonight, is the Annual Chili Cook-Off in the Garvey Multipurpose Room. Students, faculty, staff, alumni, family and friends are invited to enjoy the various chili specialties, along with a buffet of hot dogs, Frito pie, ice cream and beverages. Many University clubs and organizations will be represented with creatively themed chili booths, all competing for prizes such as Best Theme and Best Chili.

Today is also the final day for the Golden Cherry Hunt — another Cherry Carnival tradition. Students have followed clues that began appearing on Monday; today those who persevered have the chance to decipher a final clue and find the Golden Cherry.

Friday evening will find the Wichita Boathouse rolling out the red carpet for the Cherry Carnival Winter Ball. The formal dance will treat students to a night of food and fun. Live music will be provided by the Lucky People Band, a local group that was voted Wichita’s “Best Cover Band.” This “Night in Hollywood” will be the perfect closing to a fabulous Cherry Carnival week.