LAST CALL FOR FOUR LOKO'S IN NEW YORK!

The Four Loko tap has almost run dry.
Friday is the final day beverages that combine caffeine and alcohol can be delivered to New York retailers - marking a last call for Four Loko lovers.

"Sometimes people need a drink and a little energy boost at the same time," said fan Maria Perez, 24, who was shopping for the controversial elixir at the West Side Deli in Washington Heights.

"The government should stay out of it," she said. "Some people mix vodka with Red Bull. It's the same thing."

The State Liquor Authority pressured distributors to stop delivering Four Loko and other caffeinated cocktails last month amid public health concerns.

A 23.5-ounce can of Four Loko contains the same amount of alcohol as three cans of beer blended with the caffeine of three cups of coffee.

Makers of Four Loko announced plans to brew a noncaffeinated version of the drink in the near future.

Liquor Authority spokesman William Crowley said retailers have "a reasonable amount of time" to sell their inventory.

After that, any store caught selling the products will be hit with fines and could lose its liquor license.

Mo Alfaki, who owns West Side Deli, said Four Loko sales have picked up since the ban was announced.

"People are coming in, they are curious about the drink," said Alfaki, 39. "I even bought a few different flavors, but I have not drank them. I'm afraid. I hear it makes people crazy."

Not everyone is sad to see the drinks go. Pawn shop worker Felix Ramos, 21, said Four Loko should be controlled.

"It's bad for you," he said. "I hear it makes you crazy. It gets you messed up. People get carried away."

Craigslist remains a hot spot for Four Loko peddlers looking to capitalize on the ban. Cans are selling for as much as $8 - four times the retail price.


SOURCE