Written in response to the article "Under 21... House Party or House Party?" by Vanessa Gertz, which appeared in The Flip Side Volume 1, Issue 10 (April 14th - 27th, 2004).

Before you complain about nothing to do in Eau Claire, please do some research first. As a senior at UW-Eau Claire, I have experience both from being underage and from being 21. I certainly don't center my weekends on alcohol. There is plenty to do in Eau Claire, especially on Friday and Saturday nights.

First, in response to “biggest problem…everything is closed!” Racy D'Lenes is open until midnight every night, not just during the week, and they have very excellent coffee and atmosphere.

Not only can you get a cup of coffee, there are games to play, books to read, many interesting people to talk to, and art on the walls to admire. Borders is open until at least 11pm on weekend nights. The Acoustic Café is open until 10 p.m. If you want late night coffee, there you go – three awesome options.

If you aren't in the mood for coffee, Perkins is open all night on Fridays and Saturdays, contrary to what is stated in your article. If you have the urge to eat late during the week, Perkins is open until 2am, and Country Kitchen is open 24-hours all week long.

Many of the local bars are realizing that young people would like to see local bands in the bar setting. The Stones Throw and The House of Rock both have underage nights. The Cabin has music every weekend and it is free. There are amazing local bands playing regularly at these places. On campus, there are excellent Forums, Artists Series shows, dance nights at Higherground, and other weekend and weekly campus events.

Go to the theater (The State Theater, Fanny Hill, Haas Fine Arts), to the movies, bowling, to a park, to anywhere! Be creative. If you can't find something to “intellectually stimulate” you, rent a movie and go to a friend's house (since your house is too loud).Read a book. Write. I am sure that people are creative enough to find other things to do in Eau Claire besides go to a house party.