» By LORI PERKINS – lperkins@my.apsu.edu

With the holidays approaching, people are beginning to anticipate their favorite traditional foods. The APSU community has learned to anticipate international food because of the free annual event, International Night.

The APSU community was able to enjoy International Night on Monday, Nov. 14, in the gym of the Foy.

International night began in 1993 in the UC ballroom. Since then, the event continued to grow and, inevitably, reached the maximum capacity of the ballroom. As a result, the event was moved to the Foy. This year, the International Student Organization, Student Affairs and others expected an estimated 700-800 people to attend. However, it is estimated only 450 attended.

According to Tina Rousselot, coordinator of International Education, the night was created for individuals to represent their country. The event was started to help bring awareness to the different cultures at APSU.

“I think the event is a great way for everyone to learn a little about one another and to interact with individuals. It really brings a diverse group of people together,” Rousselot said.

Square and line dancing was the entertainment of the night. The dance groups Black Diamond and Alpine Mountain, German polka-bands, also attended.

“I’ve heard them before, they are good,” Rousselot said.

President Timothy Hall attended the event and joined others in square dancing.

“I have attended International Night every year since I have been at APSU,” Hall said. “I don’t know that I have a favorite dish, but I do know that I always manage to fill up my plate with a wonderful variety of food from around the world.”

Also in attendance were students from Sweden University and several APSU students who have studied at Mid Sweden University.

“It’s very good. I didn’t think it would be this many people. I wish we had this at home,” said Linn Engvall, an exchange student.

The gym was decorated with flags of several countries. Germany, Argentina, India and Japan were just a few of the countries represented at the event. Information about the countries and the food being served was given out from 30 different tables.

“There is some interesting food,” said Jennifer Freeland. “The Jamaican and Peruvian food was really good. I like the different foods and choices, and the native clothing.” TAS