Recently, rumors have stirred about the University Cafe closing down.’ ‘

However, GSO Treasurer, Ryan Soule told the Statesman, ‘It is important to note that the caf’eacute; is not closing, however. It is still open, just under new management.’

The caf’eacute;, located on the first floor of the Stony Brook Union, opened on Jan. 14, 2004. It’s home to Italian specialties and live music. The caf’eacute;’s 46 inch plasma TV and wireless internet access are available for its customers’ enjoyment.

Soule explained that after the Caf’eacute;’s Manager Godfrey Palaia resigned in October, the high food and labor costs were too much for the GSO to handle. On Nov. 30, the GSO committee made the final decision to withdraw funds. According to Andrei Antonenko, the GSO President, if they didn’t make this decision they would just be wasting student fees.

‘GSO could no longer manage the cafe because it wound up putting the organization in serious financial jeopardy if we kept with it. It was costing us to the tune of $8,000 plus per month this year, and our subsidy is $27,000 for the entire year,’ said Soule. ‘When Godfrey left, all the acts he booked along with his equipment were no longer, which resulted in an immediate loss of revenue for the cafe.’

Even though GSO withdrew funds, the Caf’eacute; is still running, just under new management. To clear up all the commotion, the Caf’eacute;’s Manager, Paul Crespo confirmed, ‘It is currently operating. Hours of operation for December are Wednesdays and Thursdays 7 p.m. to 12 a.m. and Fridays 5 p.m. to 12 a.m.’ ‘

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