Genesis of a helping hand

Curtis Campbell, Gleaner Writer

Attica party part of charity series

Attica Fraternity of Taylor Hall, University of the West Indies (UWI), is gearing up to host its annual charity event Appleton Genesis, the Ultimate Fresher's Drink-up. Genesis is over 15 years old and, according to UWI Cultural and Entertainment Chairperson (CEAC) Miguel Reid, it is the first entertainment venture to be hosted by a UWI, Mona, hall of residence for the new school year.

"We have only had one party-like entertainment event so far, which was Fresher's Fête, and that event was hosted by me on behalf of the entire guild. But Appleton 'Genesis' marks the first time that a hall of residence will host an event this school year, and will also give a general idea of what can be expected from the halls as it relates to their entertainment package for this year," Reid said.

Taylor Hall's CEAC Rohan Stephenson spoke highly of the blocks and their events. According to Stephenson, block parties are essentially partying with a purpose.

"Each block on Taylor Hall has their own charity initiatives, so the proceeds from events like Genesis are always geared towards charity. Attica is relatively close with Nell's Learning Centre, located in Tavern, and the proceeds from Genesis and their other event, Adrenaline, are normally geared towards strengthening resources to give back to the communities," Stephenson continued.

"So, while we are having fun at the event and getting to know people and having a ball so to speak, at the end of the day it all comes to giving back. Therefore, I would encourage all to attend Genesis," Stephenson said.

Genesis will be hosted at the Taylor Hall Multi-purpose room  Genesis and their other event, Adrenaline, are normally geared towards strengthening resources to give back to the communities," Stephenson continued.

"So, while we are having fun at the event and getting to know people and having a ball, so to speak, at the end of the day it all comes to giving back. Therefore, I would encourage all to attend Genesis," Stephenson said.

Genesis will be hosted at the Taylor Hall multi-purpose room tomorrow. Gates will open at 9 p.m. and the event will end at 2 a.m. Women will be admitted free before midnight and pay $150 after. Men will be charged $350.

Mixed drinks will be free all night and Stephenson said there will be Appleton Genesis drink specials. Security will be provided by the UWI police and campus security. Taylor Hall also has a designated parking area which will be made available to Genesis patrons.

"Come out everybody 18 and over and share in this coveted college experience. Genesis is always hype on the calendar and this year I suspect it will live up to all expectations," Stephenson said.

Patrons attending Genesis are encouraged to 'Think Responsibly and Drink Responsibly'. Appleton Genesis, The Ultimate Fresher's Drink-up, is sponsored by Appleton Genesis, Tru-Juice, LIME, Gears Plus, Red Bull, Salon Splurt and Attica's Grocery Store.