Typically during this time of the season, WSU and the city of Pullman join forces in an effort to spruce up the campus and town. But as with many other programs, the economic downturn will force cutbacks for this week’s eighth annual Cougar Pride Days.

The recoutrements that have accompanied the week in past years such as T-shirts, awards and giveaways, will be cut back to cope with the downturn. In addition, Chairwoman Pat Hilliard said there will be an emphasis on indoor cleaning, such as purging old records and documents, both paper and electronic.

“In past years, the budget has allowed for cedar bark, flowers and other plantings and volunteers spent a lot of time working outside,” Hilliard said. “With the budget cuts, this year, we are emphasizing efforts that aren’t cost-prohibitive but still something that can bring people together in the spirit of Cougar Pride.” Volunteers are still encouraged to partake in outdoor litter pickup, she said.

Civic groups coordinate the event annually with the university. In the past, groups such as Kiwanis and Rotary have taken part in park cleanups, sidewalk sweeping and other beautification projects, said Alan Davis, Pullman Parks and Recreation superintendent.

WSU’s Center for Civic Engagement, usually a major player during the week, will scale back its involvement this year, citing two key developments.

Coordinator Tiffanie Braun said the reduced funding from university and the emphasis on indoor cleaning is “a bit of a step back.” Braun also said Civic Engagement Week, hosted by CCE, will coincide with Cougar Pride Days, precluding the group from taking a more active role in Cougar Pride Days.

“Basically, really with our office, we do more work with the community itself, service projects,” Braun said. “This year we are looking to do a couple of things with the city of Pullman, but not in conjunction with Cougar Pride Days.” Still, Braun said the scaling back of Cougar Pride Days should not detract potential volunteers from participating in the week’s events.

“Our reason for being involved in Cougar Pride Days is the community piece of it,” Braun said. “It’s still really a fantastic opportunity for students, faculty and staff to get together.”