Senate approved one funding request at its first meeting after spring break on Thursday.

Respect for Life was allocated $1,820 for its “A Voice for Life” event. The program will take place on April 20 in Bulldog Theater and will feature a anti-abortion speaker.

In addition, a representative from WeCar spoke at the meeting about its student car rental program. The service would allow students who do not have a car on campus to rent one at an hourly rate.

The idea received positive reception from some senators. After a certain profit has been made, the service would give money back to the university.
“I really like this idea because there is no upfront cost and the marketing is paid for,” Sen. Laura Menendez said. “It’s safe, well-thought-out and a great alternative for Drake students.”

Students would have to show a driver’s license and car insurance to be able to rent a car.  Gas would also be included in the hourly rate, which would likely be between $6 and $10, depending on the car that is selected.

WeCar is run by Enterprise Holdings, which owns Enterprise Rent-A-Car.

Vice President of Student Activities Greg Larson also gave senators an update on the upcoming lock-in sponsored by Senate, the Student Activities Board, the Residence Hall Association, the Interfraternity Council, the Panhellenic Council and other various organizations.

Dogtown After Hours will take place on Friday, April 8, and will feature a variety of programs and entertainment, including a Guinness World Record-breaking custard pie fight. The idea was presented by the Crawford Hall Executive Council in a campuswide competition, with the winning organization receiving $1,000 to use on programming.

Student Body Auditor Brad Koenen gave an update on the budgets of all annually funded organizations. He expected there to be unspent money at the end of the semester by a couple organizations.

Student Body President Samantha Haas said the Board of Trustees meetings will be taking place during the Drake Relays.