The popular “Relaxation Friday”
massages of Orange House will have a new and permanent home this term, as the
seventh and final house renovation of Union's
Minerva System has been completed.
Earlier this week, the 26
residents of Orange House moved into the former Sigma Phi fraternity, located
just inside Payne Gate.
An open house and dedication has
been set for Wednesday, Jan. 12, at 5:30 p.m. There will be food, music and
house tours.
“This house, with its high
ceilings and large living spaces is just spectacular,” said Byron Nichols,
Orange House's faculty representative. “We are hoping to see a large number of
house members at the open house, since experience last fall suggests it is
important to the success of the house that we all get to know one another
quickly.”
Last term Orange House used space
in College Park Hall for its events and gatherings.
Along with the Friday massages,
house leaders are planning several events for this term including movie nights,
class dinners, visiting speakers and study sessions. On March 3, the house will
host the campus visit of Eric Schlosser, author of “Fast Food Nation” and
“Reefer Madness.”
Nichols has even scheduled one of
his weekly office hours at the house. “It's vital that we explore many
effective uses of this and all of the Minerva Houses as this system evolves at Union,” he said.
Junior Sonya Saxena, who is the
Minerva Council student representative for Orange House and one of the house's
first residents, said she is “really excited” about the new space and future
plans for the house. “This is a beautiful and comfortable house to live and
spend time in,” she said. “I hope members who don't live here will start to
come by for a free cup of coffee or to read or meet with a professor.”