Rochester area alcohol licensees aim to promote positive social scene

As published on www.fosters.com Friday, July 8, 2011

ROCHESTER — Owners and managers of local restaurants and bars came together on June 22 to discuss ways they can be proactive in creating a safe, healthy community around alcohol sales and consumption.

The Rochester Licensee Forum was sponsored by Rochester Police Department, Rochester Main Street, New Hampshire Liquor Enforcement and Bridging the Gaps: The Rochester Community Coalition for Alcohol and Drug Prevention as a starting point to getting local establishments talking about best practices around alcohol; particularly preventing sales to minors and over-serving of patrons.

The event was not a response to any particular issue but rather a proactive opportunity to engage local merchants and begin networking to promote the positive dining and social scene of Rochester. Hosted at the 103 Restaurant, Lt. Jim Wilson of Liquor Enforcement spoke about house policies and the benefits of having and using house policies to protect businesses and promote a responsible social culture in establishments. He shared sample policies and encouraged those in attendance to network with one another about what works and what doesn't work. Officer Tracy Hayes, (POP officer) from the Rochester Police Department reiterated the importance of keeping open lines of communication between establishments to reduce issues that may arise on a given evening.

Finally, Jennie Seyer O'Connell, Coalition Coordinator with Bridging the Gaps, talked about the resources the coalition could provide to local establishment to have a unified message throughout the community around responsible alcohol use. Participants were encouraged by the meeting and plan to convene again in September/October to talk more and look at hands-on strategies for promoting a healthy and safe social scene in Rochester.

Representatives were from Mel Flanagan's Irish Pub & Café, The 103 Restaurant, Phagins Restaurant, Lilac City Grill, Three Dog Pub, The 306 Restaurant, Fat Tony's, Governor's Inn, Yo's Thai Cuisine and Royal Pizza.