Texas Tech University - La Ventana Yearbook

“Glittering lights illuminating the shapes of buildings, brightly decorated evergreens, tables overflowing with delicious delicacies, eager-eyed children - Christmas brings to mind many such delightful and touching images. At Tech, the images of Christmas came to life in several tradition-filled celebrations. More than 3,000 people gathered at the science quadrangle on the night of Dec. 5 to take part in a celebration that has become a true Tech tradition - the annual Carol of Lights. A torchlight pro- cession by the Saddle Tramps began the 19th year of festivities. Lubbock Mayor Bill McAlister gave the invocation. Sue Shost, Residence Halls Association presi- dent, explained the program ' s theme, ~ ' A Light Seen Around the World. " Choirs formed by residents of men ' s and women ' s residence halls, as well as members of the Tech choir, followed with several carols. As the program came to a close, a brilliant burst of color and light provided by 12,000 red, yellow and white shining bulbs lit up the faces in the crowd, and everyone joined together for a final round of song. For three nights in December, the University Center Ballroom was transformed into a medieval dining hall for the annual Madrigal Dinner. Amidst trumpet fanfares and the soft glow of candlelight, diners were treated to a boar ' s head dinner complete with wassail and plum pudding while Madrigal singers, dressed in medieval costumes, strolled around the room singing traditional yuletide songs. Scenes depicting Christmas as celebrated on the Texas frontier were presented during the Candlelight at the Museum program at the Ranching Heritage Center. Among the displays were holiday cookie making, a cowboy ' s Christmas ball, a holiday par- ty and Mexican-style decorations. Christmas cheer pervaded the cam- pus as students in residence halls and organizations sponsored holiday parties and service projects. As part of the UC Children ' s Programs, Santa Claus came to visit with children of students, faculty and staff. A Christmas tree, donated by members of the UC Cultural Exchange Committee, added a touch of Christmas to the UC And, in the true college tradi- tion, students hurried through finals and last-minute shopping to return to their homes for family celebrations. 1. The Carol of Lights iheme, " A Light Seen Around the World, " is exemplified by the reflec- tion of the lights on the Administration Building on a cold, rainy night. Images of Christmas shine In Tech tradition ”