Union Board event offers alternative weekend option

On Friday night, the Indiana Memorial Union will be a hub of activity as Union Board presents “After Hours.”\nAfter Hours, sponsored by Union Board, is a free event that opens up the Indiana Memorial Union after it would typically be closed so that students can have another weekend entertainment option.\nThe event will take place from 9 p.m. until midnight and is free to IU students and the Bloomington community. The Bowling Alley, Commons and Market will provide various events such as free bowling, billiards, karaoke, cards, speed dating and professional tarot card readings. Union Board Films committee will present the movie “Rocky Balboa” at 8 p.m. and 11 p.m. in the Whittenberger Auditorium and will provide free snacks. \nTwo live bands – husband & wife and Rodeo Ruby Love, both from Indiana – will perform at 9 p.m. Friday. The Live from Bloomington committee is presenting the bands.\nJunior Allie Conway, director of public relations for Union Board, said the event is being funded by the Union Board’s Late Night budget, which is used to provide an alternative option to the typical weekend scene. \nSophomore Allie Howden said the free event sounds like it could be popular with students.\n“It’s definitely better that the event is being funded by the Union Board,” she said. “Students are always enticed by free food and events.”\nThe organization typically strives to have at least one large event such as After Hours each semester, Conway said. Because of the film showing, live entertainment and potential comedy show, the committee is expecting a sizable turn out. Conway said she is excited for the event because the Union “is such a great facility and it should be used more often.”\nMany students said they appreciate Union Board’s efforts to provide alternative weekend plans.\n“I have heard positive things about the events sponsored by the Union Board,” said sophomore Brandon Smith. “I feel like After Hours will be a good opportunity because it presents an alternative activity for those who do not enjoy drinking.” \nSome students who have heard very little about the event said they are also intrigued.\n “Although I haven’t heard a lot about the After Hours event,” said sophomore Stephanie Hamilton, “I think it sounds like a good time, and I am looking forward to checking it out.”