Reeve to sponsor Bye Gosh Fest, Midnight Breakfast

Members of Reeve Memorial Union will be sponsoring Bye Gosh Fest and the Chancellor's Midnight Breakfast to help students unwind during finals week.

On May 6 the Reeve Union Board will be hosting the yearly Bye Gosh Fest on the lawn outside of Clemans from 4-8 p.m.

The theme for this year's festival is "Taste of the Big Apple" with New York-style food stands serving hamburgers, hot dogs, gyros and walking tacos.

Chelsea Redger, the program adviser for the Reeve Union Board, said she is expecting a large crowd this year. She said last year's event drew more than 1,100 people and expects the same amount this year.

"It's a really nice way for students to relax before finals goes nuts," Redger said. "It's a way to thank everyone for going to Reeve events all year."

Along with food, there will also be a variety of games and activities, including tarot card reading, lawn games, tie-dyeing, crafts and more. Project Dynamite, a comedy and stunt duo, will be at the celebration as well performing their act at 7 p.m.

Redger said one the biggest draws for Bye Gosh Fest is always the live music. This year's lineup includes the Seth Boyte Band at 4 p.m., Groovitational Pull at 5 p.m. and The Midwestern Charm at 7 p.m.

"We're expecting a big turnout," Heather Wade, vice president of public relations for RUB, said. "We think the bands will bring in the off-campus students."

She said that students have a relaxing time at Bye Gosh Fest because it lets them cut loose before finals week.

"It has a great atmosphere," Wade said. "Bye Gosh Fest is a great way to end the year for students."

All activities at the event are free for everyone except for some of the food. Blackhawk Commons will be closing at 2 p.m. that day and food at the carts will cost one meal plan or $7.

There will also be an opportunity for students to slow down during the annual Chancellor's Midnight Breakfast on May 11, starting at 9 p.m. in Blackhawk Commons.

Kate Unger, marketing manager for Reeve Memorial Union, said that this will be a great chance for students to take a break from studying and refuel on food.

"Students are crazy busy during this time of year, pulling all-nighters," Unger said. "They just need a break."

During the breakfast, pancakes, omelets, fruit and bacon will be served, but not by the usual Blackhawk work ers. Faculty and staff from UWO will be serving the food to students throughout the night, including Petra Roter, Chancellor Richard Wells will also be present, greeting students as they arrive.

"It's kind of the school showing its gratitude," Unger said. "Students get to feel appreciated."

Along with food, attendees will also be able to sing karaoke and enjoy massages from licensed massage therapists.

The event will cost attendees $4.14 but will be free to students with a meal plan.

Unger said that both Bye Gosh Fest and the Chancellor's Midnight Breakfast will help students through finals week.

"Finals are rough," she said. "It's a great opportunity for students to stop being camped-out at the library and enjoy themselves."