A-maze-ing logo may set size mark

Nicole Fuschino, Advertising Director

Faranda Farms in Hollsopple, Somerset County, is to host a 2017 Harvest Festival Maze to celebrate Pitt-Johntown’s 90th Anniversary of Pitt-Johnstown and possibly set a Guinness World Record.

A date has not yet been determined.

Community and Public Relations Executive Director Tammy Barbin said that the date for this event was set, but it had changed due to an application resubmission to Guinness Book of World Records organizers.

“We originally made an application to the Guinness Book of World Records to set the record for the largest number of people in a corn maze, but they suggested setting the record for the largest electric lit logo since it would easier to obtain,” Barbin said.

“We worked out a plan with the engineering students at Pitt-Johnstown to design the lighting, create the grid, and figure out the logistics. We submitted the application back to Guinness, and we are waiting to hear back.”

The electric logo is to outline and illuminate the maze.

Philip Faranda, the farms’ owner, said that they chose to plan the Harvest Festival Maze due to Pitt-Johnstown’s 90th anniversary this past year.

“Every year, we choose either a business, organization, or individual to work with us so we can get involved in the community,” Philip said.

Faranda also said that he wants to promote the Harvest Festival Maze as a special event so that as many Pitt-Johnstown students attend as possible.

“We want Pitt-Johnstown students to come be a part of history,” said Faranda. “Then they can tell their grandchildren that they were a part in setting a Guinness World Record.”

The maze is to be a centerpiece for other fun opportunities.

“We will have many different activities including pumpkin-carving, slingshots, corn hole, letter golf and a five-acre corn maze in the shape of the University’s logo. There is something for everybody, and the activities will make you feel like a kid again,” Faranda said.

Living/Learning Center and Willow Hall graduate area coordinator Angela Delfine  said that many Pitt-Johnstown resident assistants are planning to attend the event.

“We are organizing a staff social to get more people involved,” Delfine said. “There are 45 resident assistants going.”

Barbin said that she is hopeful and excited for students, faculty and alumni to come together.

“We really want this to be a student-centered project. We do know that the event will be held within the next two weeks due to the corn season, but the date will be decided on a short notice.”