MAYOR PEREZ’S STATEMENT REGARDING EMBARGO

 OF NEW HIGH ENERGY DRINK

---NEWS RELEASE---

(April 23, 2007)--- Mayor Eddie A. Perez is released this statement in support of the embargo of the “Cocaine” energy drink product:

“I am pleased by today’s action from the State Department of Consumer Protection.  I welcome the embargo of this product that glamorizes illegal drugs and works to undo all the positive strides that Hartford residents and businesses have made in regards to the Capital City’s image.  I will continue to work with parents, merchants associations and neighborhood leaders to help keep this product off local store shelves and away from Hartford youngsters.  I want to thank Commissioner Farrell and Attorney General Blumenthal for their leadership on the state level.”

Last week, Mayor Perez and Attorney General Blumenthal held a news conference with community leaders regarding their outrage over the blatant marketing tactic of this product.  The Mayor also sent a letter to merchant associations to voluntarily not sell this product and he has received an overwhelming show of support.  Neighborhood leaders say that they will not tolerate this targeting of inner city youth.