It’s been a few months since the tragedy that was the fire in Clinton on Musgrove Street, destroying several businesses, including the beloved restaurant and go-to place, the House of Pizza. As previously reported, this incident was caused by a grease fire in the House of Pizza that quickly spread. The owners, including Narmeen Abojamoos, who is seen in the picture above, were devastated, and many believed it would be a long time before we saw the House of Pizza again. Thankfully, we were proven wrong.

Thanks to collaborations from our very own Presbyterian College and our President, Dr. Anita Gustafson, Abojamoos managed to secure a deal that would both benefit her and PC itself. Previously, PC had the idea of moving Freshens onto campus. Since they don’t need that space anymore, who better to own it than the owners of the House of Pizza themselves? Though there was some smoke damage to the building, the property was otherwise perfectly intact and ready to use at a moment’s notice. Like a phoenix rising after burning from the ashes, so did House of Pizza.

This particular action highlights the power and love of our Clinton community: how in times of trouble, some people can come together and come back stronger than ever. Now PC students can get the best of both worlds—a Freshens building that’s right on campus and the return of their beloved restaurant.

All I can say right now is the next time you head downtown, grab a slice. We’ve all earned it.