A message from Dean of Students Amanda Finch and Binghamton University Chief of Police Matthew Rossie:
The official start of spring is right around the corner, and there is no better sign that winter is almost over than the annual St. Patrick's Day events that take place locally and across the country. The Binghamton area has a proud Irish heritage, and every year downtown becomes a sea of green amid all the festivities. Over the years, these events have been enjoyed by thousands of Binghamton University students who proudly dress in green and attend parades, Irish food and dance, and all the related events that happen in celebration of this holiday.
As we have done in previous safety messages, we ask all Binghamton University students to enjoy these activities, but to make good choices and stay safe while celebrating. Always remember that when you are out in the community, you are a representative of Binghamton University. As such, your behavior can reflect positively or negatively on both the University and yourself personally. How the Greater Binghamton community perceives you and the University is up to you. Remember that these are community events and there will be families and children present. You can have a good time and still be a good role model.
If you choose to drink alcohol while celebrating, do so lawfully and responsibly. Open containers on streets, sidewalks and other public property are prohibited in the City of Binghamton. Binghamton Police will be enforcing laws related to open containers, disorderly conduct, public intoxication and underage drinking. Intoxication inevitably leads to bad choices and impaired judgment. If you are going to drink, know your own limits. Eat a good meal before you head downtown, stay hydrated and use ride share services or take public transit. Avoid binge drinking and drinking games. The effects of consuming a lot of alcohol in a short time can cause severe intoxication and can quickly become a medical emergency requiring hospitalization. Also, avoid drinking all day and night. Take a break and give your body time to recover and process the alcohol.
Your well-being and the safety of you and your friends are a shared responsibility. If you see something happening, don't be a bystander. Summon help immediately and intervene if you can do so safely.