Ghosts Noticeably Missing on Knoles Lawn

One of the most notable events on campus -- both for Pacific itself and for the Stockton community -- was cancelled this October due to an agreement reached from the COVID-19 response council. 

In a statement made by the university, “Safe Trick or Treat” simply wasn’t feasible this year due to COVID-19 because it wouldn’t live up to the name of being “safe.” 

With this, “Safe Trick or Treat,” was highly missed this year. There was a lack of Halloween spirit in the air without trick-or-treaters roaming around in their extravagant costumes leaving trails of candy wrappers in their path. There were no more spooks to be had from the decorative face paint, most notably of tigers and skulls. And there was no longer the once-familiar carnival held on Knoles Lawn. 

And while there were some mundane decorations across campus, it is not the same Halloween that members of the Stockton community remember.

ASUOP A&E did hold a “Halloween Bash” on October 30th starting at 9PM in Raymond Great Hall. The event featured a DJ, pumpkin painting, a costume contest, games, and a photobooth. In true Pacific spirit, the hall was surrounded with an orange ambient light as the attendees danced and ate delicious treats. 

The celebration of Dia de los Muertos did continue this year on October 29th, where there was a LatinX Arts and Crafts workshop. Students were able to paint sugar skulls, make paper marigolds, and papel picado while learning about the cultural significance of Dia de los Muertos. 

While events continue to be held, it is important to recognize that the events thrown are different from those prior to COVID-19 times. There remains refreshing in-person interaction but still an emphasis on keeping masks on: and rightfully so. The max amount of people who can attend events not in larger areas like the University Center has lowered -- there are also limits to how many students may congregate in a given area or table. 

And most notably, there is always an intent to have fresh supply of hand sanitizer and wipes readily available -- that is, when they are re-filled.