In 1973 the flame of the torch in the Volunteer Statue was extinguished to save energy during the Arab oil embargo, partly because of student protests. A group of students took action against the wasted energy by roasting marshmallows in the flame and sticking them on the statue. From then until 1979, the torch was lighted only on special occasions, such as homecoming weekend. On April 3, 1979, the Student Senate voted unanimously to ask the administration to light the flame continuously. Following the lighting of the torch for Torch Night 1980, the torch remained lit.