This year the UC Pi Phi’s were graciously invited by the men of Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike) to a delicious and entertaining Valentine’s dinner. Not only were we treated to a meal specially prepared by a chef, we also experienced a surprise visit from the Cincinnati Zoo—recently named the “Sexiest Zoo in America.”
Val Nastold, Cincinnati Zoo keeper for the past 25 years, brought four of his favorite friends: Chalupa (three banded Argentinean armadillo), Bach (African grey horned bill), Joe (African species emperor scorpion) and Snipe (African ball python) for an exciting and educational presentation. While at first we were a little shocked by the presence of these zoo animals, the Pi Phis quickly warmed up to the exotic species and surely learned something new.
Freshman Stacie Denton says, “The gentlemen of Pike were fantastic valentines and gave us the best surprise by letting us meet some animals from the zoo.” She continues, “My favorite part was petting the armadillo and learning the three banded armadillo is the only species that can roll itself into a ball!”
Spending quality time with other Greeks is always a top priority. Mark Zangardi, Pike’s external vice president, comments, “It’s important for Greeks to get together for events like this in order to learn new things from each other…Without collaborative events there would be no ‘Greek community.’ “
Written by: Michelle Tufano
