IMPORTANT NEWS...
State Alcoholic Beverages and Tobacco Agents and Partners Make Record Number of Arrests at 2009 Florida vs. Georgia Football Game
November 1, 2009
JACKSONVILLE—In the largest college football game enforcement effort by state authorities this season, Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation’s Division of Alcoholic Beverages and Tobacco agents, along with partners, arrested 252 people for the underage possession of alcohol. On Friday and Saturday, ABT partnered with the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office and the University of North Florida to sweep through 2009 Florida vs. Georgia Football Classic festivities and stop underage drinking. ABT agents and partners enforced state law in areas surrounding the stadium, at The Landing, and RV City.
“It’s no secret that this game is often called the ‘World’s Largest Outdoor Cocktail Party.’ The fact is that these are two college football teams, and approximately half of all college students are not old enough to legally consume alcohol,” stated Secretary Charles W. Drago. “I am proud of our ABT agents and thank the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office and University of North Florida for their partnership in stopping underage drinking at this event.”
Underage drinking prevention is one of the division’s top priorities. The division works to combat underage drinking through a three-tiered approach—education, prevention and enforcement. One prevention effort is Tailgaters Urging Responsibility & Fun, or TURF. TURF was launched by the Charmer Sunbelt Group, and former NFL quarterback Boomer Esiason is the official spokesperson. Partners include Brown-Forman, Diageo, and CBS Radio. This initiative aims to positively impact the game environment for everyone with tips for a successful celebration, responsible alcohol consumption reminders and actionable steps each and every fan can take to ensure that the game, and the tradition of tailgating, is preserved.
The department’s mission is to license efficiently and regulate fairly. The department licenses more than one million businesses and professionals ranging from real estate agents, veterinarians, and accountants to contractors and cosmetologists. For more information, please visit MyFloridaLicense.com.
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