Drinking problems at Clyde’s are not as bad as rumored

Clyde's, the popular restaurant, bar and hang-out in the first floor of the University Center, is usually characterized by its fun, relaxing atmosphere.

Recently, however, the staff has had a few problems with some rowdy patrons.

"The incidents have increased in frequency over the last few semesters, and they are nothing any other bar or lounge that sells alcohol doesn't have to deal with," said Jen Voorhees, manager at Clyde's. "I think it's the fact that we have now been open for over a year and people are testing the boundaries of what they can and cannot get away with."

None of the problems have resulted in injuries, so Public Safety's involvement has been minimal. When they have come in, it has always been due to a patron that was already drinking before entering Clyde's. In these cases, according to Voorhees, the biggest issue is simply someone trying to drink too much in too small of a time frame.

As with many bars and restaurants that serve alcohol, most issues are minor, revolving around having proper identification. Colorado law does state that anyone wishing to buy or consume alcohol at this kind of establishment is required to have a valid ID.

Contrary to rumors that college restaurants and bars are more lenient about IDs, Clyde's is strict on the practice.

"We offer alcoholic beverages to only those patrons that are of age, with proper ID, and want to utilize the pub in a responsible and respectful way," said Voorheers. "Anyone without proper ID – even if it just expired yesterday – or anyone that brings their own alcohol in will not be served."

Even with these precautionary measures, all of Clyde's staff is prepared to handle any potential challenges.

Voorhees has made sure that all staff members have the necessary training, such as alcohol safety classes. Additionally, the Office of Student Activities has trained its own staff, so that events they put on at Clyde's are safe as well. Voorhees has also increased the staff to help alleviate some concerns.

"The idea is the more eyes watching, the better," she said. "It's just a matter of being vigilant and the clientele knowing what the boundaries are and how Clyde's differs from Joe's bar down the street."

For most students, this is understood.

"I go to Erin Inn, Dublin House, clubs, places in Denver," Emily Hecker, a senior in biology, said. "Clyde's is a lot more chill. I don't expect to go to Clyde's to go wild and crazy. All the other places, you never know what you're going to see."

When she heard there may have been issues at Clyde's, she was surprised. "I would not expect that at all," said Hecker.

So far, Clyde's has not suffered or lost business due to the disruptions.