Downtown Albany Bars and Restaurants Get Certified

ALBANY, NY (02/18/2009)(readMedia)-- Downtown Albany bar and restaurant establishments attended a free day-long educational compliance training presented by the New York State Liquor Authority (SLA), the Albany DA's Office and the Empire State Restaurant and Tavern Association at the Palace Theatre on Wednesday, February 11, 2009.

Owners and managers from 12 Downtown Albany's restaurants and bars were in attendance investing their time to learn about the current Alcohol Beverage Control Law, information regarding valid driver's licenses and regulations concerning the hiring of security staff.

Jason Hayes, co-owner of Blue 82 said, "It is an informative collaboration," referring to the partnership between downtown Albany bars and the State Liquor Authority. Hayes said, "The training sessions lay the groundwork and if you can apply this information to your operation, you will have a successful and stress-free business."

Similar reactions were felt by other bar owners in the district. Joe Schaffer of Savannah's said, "The SLA makes our staff more knowledgeable." According to Schaffer, this seminar allowed his staff to realize the protocol tied to underage drinking and what types of identification they should and should not accept.

At the completion of this training session, all attendees received a certificate acknowledging their understanding and responsibility regarding these drinking laws. This is yet one more example to demonstrate the dedicated effort being put forth by downtown Albany establishments to ensure the implementation of safety measures tied to alcohol consumption.

The SLA was formed in 1934 after the Alcoholic Beverage Control Law (ABC) was passed in order to regulate alcohol sales in New York State. Since then, they have worked to inform keep constituents current with appropriate information and continue to do so through their various state-wide seminars and events.

For further information on the ABC Laws or the New York State Liquor Authority visit their website at http://www.abc.state.ny.us/ or contact them at (518) 486-4767.

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The Downtown Albany BID, incorporated in 1996, is a private, not-for profit 501 (c) (3) organization that works to restore, promote and maintain the character and viability of downtown Albany and to improve the quality of life and overall image of downtown for all those who work in, live in and visit the Capital City. For information about the Downtown Albany BID, call 518-465-2143 or visit www.downtownalbany.org.

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