The popular joke that you turn 21 years old when you move to Gainesville is something many UF students have taken literally at some point or another. Whether it's letting your friend buy you a drink and sneak it to you in a crowded bar or, more boldly, ordering a drink while cleverly making sure your wristbanded-less arms don't show, it's an all-too-common practice. But that doesn't make it legal.
We're not going to sit here and pretend that we haven't attempted the above actions, but we will say that now it's just not worth the incredible risk they require.
Sure, getting away with something you're not supposed to be doing in public may give you a little thrill - if you're into that sort of thing. And yes, you shouldn't be restricted from buying a beer when you can legally fight for your country in war. But, it is what it is. You will be arrested, and you will have to make that phone call home that no one wants to make.
Since the Gainesville Police Department is beefing up patrols at local bars, it seems ridiculous to even try to pull a fast one at The Swamp Restaurant. We can't reasonably expect local law enforcement to ignore the dangers of an out-of-control drinking scene, which was tragically illustrated with the death of GPD Lt. Corey Dahlem last April.
So, we say, if you really must have your booze, just be responsible and stay home. Or better yet, host a party.
