News Release

April 14, 2011
News Release Contact:
Philip Bogenberger - (804) 219-2022
E-mail: pubrel@abc.virginia.gov

Project Sticker Shock Targets Richmond

RICHMOND – Customers who choose to buy alcohol on Saturday may experience sticker shock. The Friends of Prevention Coalition and Richmond Behavioral Health Authority (RBHA) and other youth-serving agencies are participating in the Virginia Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC)’s Project Sticker Shock to educate customers about the legal consequences of providing alcohol to an underage person.

“Some adults think underage drinking is a rite of passage. They are willing to look the other way or even provide alcohol to people underage,” said Shawn P. Walker, Co-Director of ABC Bureau of Law Enforcement. “Project Sticker Shock reminds customers that being a social provider is illegal and irresponsible.”

As part of Project Sticker Shock, underage people will visit licensed establishments in the City of Richmond to place “stop sign” stickers on alcoholic beverage cases. The message warns adults about the penalties for providing alcohol to anyone under 21 years old. The group will meet at 9 a.m. at the RBHA offices at 107 S. Fifth St. before heading to stores throughout the city.

“Underage drinking is a year-round concern,” Walker said. “However, during prom and graduation season there is an increased emphasis on reminding adults about the dangers of being a social provider.”

For more information about this underage prevention event contact Charlene Edwards, prevention manager for RBHA, at 804-819-4068. For more information about Project Sticker Shock: http://www.abc.virginia.gov/Education/stickershock/sticker_shock.html.