2008 Woodie Awards
Raising the bar
Beth Finan '07
Issue date: 10/5/06 Section: News
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Peter Ryan '10 said that he comes to McPhail's to watch the big screen television and lounge on what are "probably the most comfortable couches on campus."
This casual atmosphere, however, which Fokaidis likened to "The Max" from "Saved by the Bell," is turned on its head on the weekends.
Instead of milkshakes, students are drawn to the bar by $2 cans of Narragansett beer. Where the couches once were is a spacious dance floor. And any hope of having a conversation in which vocal cords are not strained is gone out the window as soon as the live bands begin to play and the room fills with hundreds of shouting students.
Although this type of scene is typical of any neighborhood bar or club, the situation in McPhail's is unique because of its location in the heart of campus. Some may question the wisdom of serving alcohol on campus, as it seems to promote a party environment and could lead to debauchery and destructive behavior.
However, Todd Incantalupo, assistant director of the Student Activities-Involvement-Leadership (SAIL) Office/ Slavin Center, does not see a problem.
"Drinking is not the focus of our events. You can come here and have a good time dancing or listening to the band without drinking alcohol."
In addition, both Incantalupo and Maj. John Leyden, executive director of safety and security, reported that they have not witnessed a major incident in the five years that McPhail's has been open.
Students have also noticed the lack of fights and other problems.
"McPhail's is the most low-key of all the partying people do, as opposed to Prime Time and places like that," said Katie Collins '07.
"Things can get a little crazy there, but not dangerously so," said Jen Ferro '07. "It's not as bad as other places."