Freshmen to give "M" fresh coat of paint

GOLDEN, Colo., Aug. 14, 2007 — In keeping with a longstanding tradition, Colorado School of Mines freshmen will kick off the new school year by whitewashing the “M” on Mt. Zion in Golden.

The painting will take place Monday, Aug. 20. Students leave the Mines intramural fields at 8:30 a.m., and the whitewashing, which lasts 10 to 15 minutes, usually occurs between 10 a.m. and 11 a.m. Each year, incoming freshmen carry a 10-pound boulder up Mt. Zion (just north of Lookout Mountain) and place it on the “M” before applying a fresh coat of whitewash.

Classes begin Tuesday, Aug. 21 and Mines anticipates approximately 880 new and transfer students for fall 2007.

The “M,” which was constructed in 1908, is the largest electronically lit school emblem in the world, measuring 104 feet by 107 feet and boasting more than 500 15-watt light bulbs. The computer-automated and remote-controlled system for the mountainside monument incorporates 37 different animations allowing students to get creative with colors and shapes for holidays and school events.

Never unlit for more than 24 hours, the “M” is maintained by Blue Key members who have long battled the elements to keep the record.

To reach the “M,” take 6th Avenue west from Denver to 19th Street in Golden. Turn left at the light and follow the road up Lookout Mountain. Although the road will be closed to the public, media representatives will be permitted to drive to the “M.”