Tom Maginnis dances with masked students in Diversions.
By Elizabeth Harman/The Siskiyou

Music, dancing and sexy attire made for quite an evening at the third annual Erotic Ball Saturday night in Diversions.

Food and drinks were served, pool tables were used and the floor was crowded with students dancing to freshman John Del Secco’s beats he spun under the name of DJ Die3el.

The dance was sponsored by the Gender Sexuality Union and was the club’s biggest event of the year.

Freshman and GSU Co-President Kristine Cox said one of the goals of the night was to promote safe sexual activity along with a fun way for students to express their sexuality in an open and inviting manner.

"People are going to have sex, and no one can stop that," Cox said. "We just want to encourage safe, fun sexual activities for people."

Students were encouraged to sign a "Safe Sex Pledge" that was posted at the front desk of the dance’s entrance. By signing the sheet of paper, students promised to engage in safe and responsible sex. The pledge was accompanied by a bowl of free condoms.

The dance’s theme, "Masquerade," allowed students to wear partial masks and adorn themselves with their very own definition of erotic attire. Those definitions ranged from low-cut prom dresses to lingerie to bee costumes.

Sophomore art student Rebekah Mortenson wore a gorilla-bear suit to the event, which she and a friend made. Mortenson attended last year’s dance but said she liked this year better.

"I think the masks this year are fun," Mortenson said. "It’s really great to see all the creativity with the costumes and everything."

The club raffled off adult toys and novelty items throughout the night. Romance Consultant Eve Woods of Temptations Parties also sold sex toys during the dance for the first time on campus. Woods was contacted by the GSU and asked to display her merchandise at the dance. She was enthusiastic about the atmosphere of the event.

"Everyone is so open. It’s going to be a really good night," she said.

GSU Co-President Ryan Farley agreed. "Everyone is dressed in erotic attire," he said. "It’s fun to look at."

Aside from promoting positive sexuality, the GSU has sponsored many other events throughout the year, including the Ghetto Fabulous BBQ for Gladys, the Day of Silence, and National Coming Out Day. For more information about the GSU and future events, contact Ryan Green at 552-6428.