In the midst of studying for exams and writing final papers, there was a hum of relaxation and celebration radiating from the Fielding Room of Howe this past Tuesday. Knitting Club and Stevens Irish Association co-hosted Pagan Christmas, an event filled with food, ornaments, paint, and chatter. With over 60 students in attendance, e-board members of both clubs were pleased. Students enjoyed chicken pot pie, salad, assortments of cookies, and more, all catered by Giorgio’s and the Dubliner. Students also enjoyed painting ornaments, allowing their creativity and talent to come alive as they succumbed to the appeal of relaxation. “Everyone is so busy during this time of the semester. It’s nice to feel relaxed and festive for once,” freshman Elizamae Villarba explained as she painted her second ornament.
“We wanted to try an ethnic-based event,” co-president of Knitting Club Kyra Pastore said. Matt Hall, the other co-president, joined in: “We thought it would be interesting to partner with SIA and try a different kind of food.” With Irish flags hanging in the room, and students trying Shepherd’s pie, the culture was definitely felt by all participants. “It’s common for different ethnic groups to partner with one another,” began Thomas Daly, president of the Stevens Irish Association. “However it’s rare for an ethnic organization to partner with a non-ethnic organization like Knitting Club. We’re hoping for more of these partnerships.” With the success of this alliance, it would be wise for both organizations to take on such ventures again.
