On weekends, many Ohio University students turn to alcohol for entertainment, but sophomore Jordan Rogoff plays drinking games with tomato juice instead.
It's harder because it's thick
she said. Sometimes a lot of things here are based around beer.
Rogoff is one of many students in Athens who finds alternatives to drinking on the weekends. The telecommunications major likes to go to live performances at The Union or The Front Room and Latin dance night at Casa Nueva.
A lot of times I'd wake up in the morning and I'd be so happy I didn't drink last night she said.
Sophomore Jay Blistan feels comfortable going to parties and staying sober. He said he doesn't mind being around intoxicated people as long as they are friendly.
I'm able to kick back and relax without drinking Blistan said. He also stays busy with club volleyball tournaments and Student Alumni board functions. If you get involved it's easier to deal with drinking
he said.
Rogoff likes to go uptown and to parties so she can meet people and be with her friends, she said. Sometimes she brings a video camera uptown. People always want to entertain you when you have a camera
she said.
In addition to finding their own fun, students can also explore entertainment options sponsored by the university.
Baker Center Assistant Director Jennifer Schomburg-Kanke said the goal of Baker Center is to give students options so they do not feel bored. There are lots of things to do they aren't aware of
she said.
For example, any student organization can plan its own event for a weekend night and even get funding for it from the Late Night Advisory Board. Several greek organizations and Students for Local Music took advantage of the offer last year and received free Pepsi products as they listened to local bands, Schomburg-Kanke said.
Another late night option is Ping Center, which operates until midnight. Director Hafedh Benhadj said the recreation center is open late to provide students alternative activities.
We learn every year how to better market to students
Benhadj said. Special events, such as this year's Planet Ping Halloween party, expose students to the opportunities at Ping and bring in more students on weekends.
The center also hosts a Super Bowl party each year with three big-screen televisions.
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Kevin Ziegler
