The Gentlemen's Vintage Picnic: A Tale of Brotherhood and Elegance

One could begin with the bond of brotherhood that hung in the air, the very spirit of fraternity. One could begin with the calming serenade of music that engulfed the arena. One could begin with the carriage, class, and composure of Loyal Sigmites as they stepped in hand in hand with their beautiful dates. If you liked, you could begin with the spicy chops and drinks that flowed in abundance. One could begin with anything and everything. But one thing was evident—the bond amongst brothers as Loyal Sigmites fraternized with the Sigma Chief.

Golden and purple balloons floated gracefully, catching the radiance and glow of the evening sun. The University of Ibadan Botanical Gardens was set to witness the star of several hangouts held there: The Gentlemen's Vintage Picnic. A one-in-a-million kind of event. The venue was meticulously decorated to meet the Sigma standard, epitomizing the saying, "When it is from Sigma Club, it is the highest level of perfection.

Anchored by the Committee Chairman of the hangout, Loyalist Ogbu, the event began with introductions as all attendees sat in a round format. This ensured everyone had a name and that nobody was merely called 'Hey' or greeted with a nod. This was particularly beneficial for the Sigma wives, as each Loyal Sigmite already knew his brother's name. The otherwise routine introduction was spiced up when a Sigma wife, carried away by the manner Loyal Sigmites introduced themselves, then introduced herself as 'Loyalist...' A sweet comic relief, perhaps, an icebreaker.

The music shifted to match the energy and enthusiasm of the arena as games commenced. Card games, board games, and eventually all-inclusive games like 'Charades' set the tone for the evening. One exciting game was 'Passing the Balloon,' where a balloon was passed around, and whoever held it when the music stopped had to perform a task set by the MC, Loyalist Ogbu. Inability to do so meant taking a drink. Several Sigma wives had to enlist the help of their dates to serve their 'punishments,' quickly turning the whole place groovy.

The Food and Drinks Committee Chairman, along with his team, ensured that no cups or plates were empty, circulating constantly to make sure everyone was well taken care of. As it often happens when one is lost in merriment, night fell quickly, and games were abandoned for hype and gyration. In unison, Loyal Sigmites surrounded the Sigma Chief, chanting 'Sigma Chief, 001!' This practice continued as Loyal Sigmites moved on to several committee chairmen and other Loyal Sigmites, all the while dancing and singing.

As the night drew on, much to the oblivion of Loyal Sigmites, the event drew to a close. It was a remarkable evening filled with wonderful fraternity and a bond amongst brothers. The Gentlemen's Vintage Picnic will be remembered as a shining example of the enduring spirit and elegance of the Sigma Club.