Holly Jolly Mocktails Flow with Cups of [Sober] Cheer

Restaurants Celebrate Best Time of the Year with Holiday-Themed Non-Alcoholic Drinks

VISTA --- Holly Jolly Mocktails flow with cups of sober cheer at renowned eateries during this holiday season when drunk-driving crashes peak nationwide.

Celebrated mixologists splashed a little non-alcoholic magic into holiday-themed recipes to delight everyone from the expectant mom to the non-drinker to the designated driver.

The North Coastal Prevention Coalition (NCPC) crafted the effort to offer revelers festive drink alternatives while safely enjoying the holidays. The nonprofit works in partnership with the San Dieguito Alliance for Drug Free Youth to support the County of San Diego's prevention efforts to reduce binge and underage drinking, and prevent over-service of alcoholic beverages at licensed establishments.

In December 2010, fatal drunk-driving crashes accounted for one-third of all motor vehicle crashes, or roughly 775 deaths, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

In San Diego County, drunk driving claimed two lives and led to 56 arrests over the last Christmas weekend, according to the California Highway Patrol.

"At our most joyful time of the year, tragedy strikes far too many families," said Aaron Byzak, president of the NCPC. "Establishments and their servers play an important part in preventing intoxication."

Based on a recent survey of DUI offenders attending San Diego County DUI programs, nearly 50 percent reported they had their last drinks at bars, clubs or restaurants prior to arrest.  Promoting non-alcoholic beverages is one step businesses can take to help their customers make responsible decisions. The holiday season presents an opportunity for businesses to create festive alternatives.

"Holly Jolly Mocktails bring a little holiday spirit for everyone to share in the season with family and friends," Byzak said. "We thank these inspired mixologists for crafting such delicious offerings."

Where to Find Holly Jolly Mocktails

"Holiday Peppermint Patty" - Casa De Bandini: Chocolate and peppermint lovers don't want to miss out on this creamy treat. Recipe: A frosty blending of chocolate syrup, horchata, candy canes, milk and a dash of grenadine candy cane topped with fresh whipped creme and crushed candy cane.

"We're happy to promote safe choices this holiday season by offering a festive non-alcoholic beverage to our diners who cannot or choose not to consume alcohol," said Gilbert Gastelum, Manager at Casa De Bandini.

"Winter Warmer" - The Pony Room, Rancho Valencia: A spiced house made mulled cider served warm in a footed coffee mug to chase away the winter chill. Recipe: Cider spiced with aromatic cinnamon, cloves and allspice gently warming over fire throughout the night.

"Our Winter Warmer is a nod to the fond memories the holidays offer to so many this time of year," said Chris Simmons, Bar Manager at The Pony Room. "It's a wonderful, sans alcohol offering that will certainly put you in the holiday spirit and warm you from head to toe."

Learn more about Holly Jolly Mocktails at www.northcoastalprevention.org.

About North Coastal Prevention Coalition (NCPC)

The North Coastal Prevention Coalition aims to reduce the harm of alcohol, tobacco, marijuana and other drugs in the cities of Carlsbad, Oceanside and Vista through community action, education, support and collaboration. Funded in part by the County of San Diego, HHSA, Behavior Health Services; by SAMHSA though the STOP Act; and by the Tri-City Hospital Foundation and Walmart Foundation with grants to Vista Community Clinic.

Contact: Erica Holloway, Galvanized Strategies (619) 796-1651

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