Family Weekend elicits exceptional behavior by students wanting to make a favorable impression on family members regarding their independent statuses at NIU.

Rooms are cleaned and attitudes are polished for parents anticipating the worst.

But students are not the only people who want to make an endearing impression on parents this weekend. Many of the business establishments in the surrounding area of NIU are fervently anticipating the arrival of skeptical parents.

Various food establishments and stores located on the perimeter of campus are putting their best feet forward with hopes of soliciting the business of students and their family members.

Mike Muzzarelli, owner of Crystal Pistol Beach Club, said his eating establishment will be serving full dinners from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Saturday and 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Sunday.

He said he is extending all of his business hours this weekend for family members who would like a hearty meal at any time of the day.

Sgt. Pepper’s Eating Emporium’s owner, Kevin Threloff, said he is increasing his staff this weekend in preparation for the larger influx of patrons.

“We always like to make sure the place is ready for the families” he said.

Threloff assures they will have great food and service as always; however, he said he held a meeting with staff members to make sure they are on their best behavior this weekend.

The owner of Buffalo Wings and Rings, Don Breitkreutz, is experiencing Family Weekend for the first time this year.

He said his dining establishment is keeping its normal menu, which includes sandwiches, burgers, salads, appetizers and, of course, buffalo wings.

Breitkreutz said they will have their usual three dollar pitchers of beer all weekend.

A good dining experience will not be the only favorable impressions of NIU for family members this weekend. The two most frequented NIU paraphernalia stores on campus also are preparing for Family Weekend.

Village Commons’ Bookstore’s general manager, Richard Boardman, said, “We are trying to make the event as festive as possible.”

He said they will be giving out free red and black balloons in honor of the occasion, in addition to free popcorn.

Also, for any students or family members wanting to show their NIU pride, there will be sales on sweatshirts and jackets, he said.

The University Bookstore will also be contributing to the festivities this weekend beginning with the extension of its business day by one hour on Saturday, said Mitch Kielb, director of the store.

He said on Saturday they will be conducting a 20 percent off sale on all NIU clothes, and will be giving a free pompom to all customers while supplies last.

So, as the excitement of NIU’s Family Weekend commences, just remember that students are not the only ones trying to make a good impression on parents.