Today, Hofstra University hosted a secret event that has been in the works for months. As a representative for University Relations, I got to take part in the planning process and experience the reactions of students and faculty members across campus. The event focused on It’s On Us, a campaign that promotes awareness and advocacy against sexual assault.
The event began with a three minute freeze. We all stood still in complete silence. In that moment, I felt proud to be assisting in such a powerful movement. In fact, it gave me chills. Shortly after, a video regarding the campaign was presented on two large screens. (The video will be posted at the bottom of this post.)
In spirit of the Halloween season, I decided to try out a little Hempstead hole-in-the-wall. This coffee shop is located on Hempstead Turnpike in Long Island and offers something most places don’t. With the ever so fitting name of the Witches Brew, this place is certainly radiating Halloween style. Once inside, the atmosphere is a bit overwhelming, but in the most wonderful way possible. Each table is unique in style and completely mismatched from the surrounding tables. Some people sat in antique office chairs, others in grandiose, satin-looking sofas. This is all part of the Brew’s distinct charm. Aside from the seating arrangements, each room of the coffee house is filled with authentic looking props, finished off with overhead hanging lights. The best part? This one-of-a-kind charmer is open all year round. That’s right. Halloween is celebrated 365 days a year here. This continuous nature may seem a bit overzealous, but I commend any well-functioning establishment that can commit to a theme.
nk options did not disappoint, either. In fact, the options are everything that would be expected. With a menu full of skulls and eerie typefaces, the Brew is authentic through and through. Though there are a wide variety of appetizers and snacks, this place is considered a coffee shop for a reason- it specializes in drinks. From teas to frozen cocoas, there’s something for everyone.
If I don’t get a sense of impending doom at any point, I’d say it was a waste of money. What I’m referring to of course, is the experience of a haunted house. I love all things Halloween, so finding a place that can give me a good scare is highly notable. Last weekend, my friends and I took a little road-trip to see Terror Behind the Walls, a massive haunted attraction in Philadelphia. I do a lot of research when it comes to finding a worthy haunted house and this one jumped out to me immediately. For one, Terror Behind the Walls is actually Eastern State Penitentiary. Everything inside is absolutely authentic, ranging from old prison-cell bed frames to hospital equipment. I also cannot fail to mention that Al Capone once resided in this penitentiary. That in itself makes for an interesting exploration.
Jordan Heiden 