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Exit 182 is a publication dedicated to strengthening and enriching the existing connections between current students and alumni by sharing the stories and perspectives of experiences at Grinnell and beyond. Written, illustrated, and edited by current students with the support of the Student Alumni Association, we're here to foster a stronger community between Grinnellians past and present. Below is a preview to the Fall 2008 issue, which is on its way to your mailboxes right now. Enjoy!
By:Johnathan Antrim '09
Salina, KS
Major: Economics
Invitations go out via email weeks in advance. The buzz around campus can be heard from High Street to the Athletic Center. Who got invited? Who was left off the list? Though only 250 students are "invited" as per the rules of mass-emailing, every Grinnellian is invited to the best party of the year.
Early Saturday night in the weekend before final exams, the football team meets. Wearing an unusual uniform of suits and ties, they prepare the lounge for the festivity. A laptop is hooked up to speakers; immediately you hear the vocals of the man in blue. Clear twinkly lights are attached to the wall to spell out the word of the night: Frank.
Every school has a group that believes they throw the best party of the year. For the Grinnell football team, that party is a night of dancing and camaraderie to celebrate the birthday of one of the most influencing men in history: Frank Sinatra. Though this party is hosted by a group of burly football players, everyone is welcome under one condition- that they wear semiformal attire. Most guys wear suits, the girls wear cocktail dresses.
As numerous students start to show up, the music is turned up. The music at Frank varies from the typical music you would usually hear at party. For at least the first half of the night, you will only hear Frank Sinatra. His serenades, played in honor of his birthday and overall greatness, add to the individuality of the party.
Free parties are instilled into the Grinnell subculture, and Frank is the ultimate free party, unless you are on the football team. Every member of the Grinnell football team makes a donation to ensure a great time will be had by all.
Many other colleges and universities have larger budgets, more attendees, and crazy gimmicks for the parties thrown. Yet they can in no way match the unique experience of dancing to Frank Sinatra in a classy wood paneled lounge.
As a member of the Grinnell football team, I would not trade my yearly Frank experience for any indoor water slide, toga, or country club themed party. Frank highlights my Grinnell landmark: a worthy tradition that brings together Grinnellians of all sides of campus and walks of life to celebrate Frank Sinatra's birthday, all while dressed in classy suits and fancy dresses.
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