Cheers Summer 2021 | Page 66

2021 DRINK RESPONSIBLY
“ Involving our youth in an educational program to address underage drinking is an effective way to save lives .”
– COMMISSIONER FRED WOOTON

Educating Citizens and Licensees

CONTROL STATES BALANCE DUAL MANDATES
Many control states are responsible for not only the sale and / or distribution of wine and spirits , but also public education on the dangers of alcohol , and the enforcement of regulations . These are a few examples of control state agencies promoting responsible behavior .
MONTGOMERY COUNTY ’ S PAUSE PROGRAM
The Montgomery County Alcohol Beverage Services launched a “ Pause Program ” in partnership with Brown-Forman , encouraging people to momentarily pause and make responsible decisions around alcohol , particularly in relation to drinks-to-go .
The ABS distributed 20,000 stickers designed to fit on a to-go drink container that read “ Pause until you get home – please do not open or consume while driving .” Stickers are offered to businesses at no cost throughout April .
“ This is a great opportunity to remind the public and community at-large that alcohol to-go must be consumed at home , not while walking around town and never while driving ,” said Acting Director Kathie Durbin . “ We want to keep our communities safe while helping businesses thrive in a time of need .”
WEST VIRGINIA ENGAGES STUDENTS
The West Virginia ABC Administration recently announced the winners of its 8th annual No School Spirits PSA contest . Nearly 150 students submitted video PSA entries in this year ’ s contest . While the pandemic presented unique challenges and delayed the start of the contest , the agency was able to still proceed with this program it deems vital .
The No School Spirits contest is funded by State Farm , NABCA , the Foundation for Advancing Alcohol Responsibility and the Governor ’ s Highway Safety Program . Prize money goes towards school equipment or a school-sanctioned event . The first-place entry will air during the spring on television and radio stations across the state .
“ Involving our youth in an educational program to address underage drinking is an effective way to save lives ,” said Commissioner Fred Wooton .
8 Drink Responsibly 2021