WASHINGTON, DC - United States Senator Blanche Lincoln (D-AR) has been recognized by The Century Council, a national not-for-profit organization funded by distillers, for her outstanding commitment to fighting drunk driving and underage drinking. Senator Lincoln was one of 21 Members of Congress to be honored for her ongoing dedication.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Association, there were 11,773 alcohol-impaired traffic fatalities in 2008, with 5,174 of them being persons between the ages of 12 and 20. Understanding the scope of this national epidemic, this year’s award recipients joined The Century Council to help educate youth and their parents from middle school through college-aged students about responsible decision-making concerning beverage alcohol.

Senator Lincoln is a leader in the fight against drunk driving and underage drinking. In 2009, she supported The Century Council’s proclamation to name March, April, and May 2009, as Prom and Graduation Safety Months. Prom and graduation season is a time of great celebration for high school students and their families. However, far too often alcohol is a part of the celebration. The Century Council believes that it is important that we continue to talk to our youth about making responsible decisions.

The Century Council is a not-for-profit organization funded by distillers including Bacardi U.S.A., Inc.; Beam Global Spirits & Wines, Inc., Brown-Forman; Constellation Brands, Inc.; DIAGEO; Hood River Distillers, Inc.; and Sidney Frank Importing Co., Inc. Through legislation, education, and public awareness campaigns, The Century Council promotes responsible decision-making regarding beverage alcohol, focusing on drunk driving and underage drinking. Since 1991, the companies that fund The Century Council have invested more than $175 million in its programs.