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A new hangout for students opens Jan. 25 with the official grand opening and announcement of the name and the student who won the naming contest Jan. 29. The prize is $100 in flex dollars and a color TV. Entertainment scheduled for 10 p.m. that night is folk musician Beth Wood.

The first facility of its kind on campus, the coffeehouse is located in Kirby House. It’s open 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. Sunday through Wednesday and 11 a.m. to 3 a.m. Thursday through Saturday.

It features a snack bar, comfortable furniture, game tables, sound system, and computer hookups for laptops. A gas fireplace adds to the relaxed atmosphere.

Students have been involved from the start, giving advice on design, furniture, games, and menu. A student committee, advised by Tracy Garnick, assistant dean of students, organizes events such as coffeehouse singers or poetry slams. Members include James Abels ’00, Jackie Cavanaugh ’01, James Charnley ’02, Donna DiGregorio ’99, Jadrien Ellison ’01, Pamela Perez ’99, Robyn Shapiro ’01, Jasmin Verem ’00, and Lisa Vislocky ’00.

“The idea for a late-night spot came up a year ago when a group of faculty, administrators, and students got together to discuss ways to provide social alternatives to gatherings where alcohol is served,” says Garnick.

The dining room and bar room in Kirby House were renovated last semester, transforming the space into a coffeehouse with a game room that includes pool, foosball, and electronic darts. The sound system, for which 66 CDs have been purchased, is being managed by students.

The snack bar, which opens Jan. 25, will be open 11 a.m. to 1 a.m. Monday through Wednesday, 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. Thursday and Friday, 8 p.m. to 2 a.m. Saturday, and 8 p.m. to 1 a.m. Sunday.

The lunch menu includes made-to-order sandwiches, a grilled sandwich feature daily, salads, soup, and chili; dinner includes grilled burger and chicken items, nachos, buffalo wings, and salads. Desserts will include brownies, cookies, cheesecake, and more. Specialty coffees and a selection of teas will also be available. The late-night menu will be light fare, such as nachos, buffalo wings, onion rings, and specialty items.

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