Diageo Backs Initiative to Prevent Drunk Driving and Underage Drinking in Oneida County

16/11/06 Diageo, the world's leading spirits, wine, and beer company is proud to support Brandon Silveria and his efforts with students in Marcy, NY to prevent drunk driving and underage drinking. Silveria, who survived a drunk driving crash when he was a teen, spoke today to students at Whitesboro High School about his experience. Brandon tells his story under the auspices of The Century Council, a not-for-profit organization funded by distillers dedicated to fighting drunk driving and underage drinking.

Silveria was 17 when he endured a three-week coma due to a drunk driving crash. Since his rehabilitation Silveria has devoted himself to speaking about his experience and encouraging people under the legal drinking age to make the right decisions about alcohol. Although his speech has been permanently impaired, Silveria's presentation delivers a resounding message on the dangers of underage drinking and drunk driving and has captivated audiences across the country.

"Brandon has a very powerful story to share with young people. Our hope is that his story will help save lives," said Joseph Luppino, Senior Director State Government Relations, Diageo North America. "While Diageo believes our products should be enjoyed responsibly, we do not want the business of anyone under the legal drinking age. Period."
  
Diageo is a founding member and major supporter of The Century Council, an organization funded by the country's leading distillers committed to developing programs to combat drunk driving and underage drinking. These programs include "Ask, Listen, Learn," "Cops in Shops," "Brandon Tells His Story" and "Girl Talk." The Century Council also works with a broad array of education and prevention professionals on alcohol issues.