Recent studies on alcohol store density are fueling Boston neighborhood activists' efforts to keep alcohol out of the hands of minors and other vulnerable populations, the Boston Globe reported Oct. 12.

A survey from the University of Minnesota that covered 10 cities, including Boston, found that alcohol, especially malt liquor, is more widely available in poor, black neighborhoods.

In addition, a report published by the Medical Foundation -- a research funding group based in Boston -- urged activists to join forces to promote awareness about the density of alcohol outlets and advertising aimed at youth. The report found 1,182 alcohol beverage licensees in Boston, with neighborhoods like Dorchester and Allston-Brighton topping the list with 104 and 80, respectively.

In Dorchester, teens participating in the study found 164 advertisements when visiting 50 out of the 104 liquor outlets -- known locally as "package stores," or "packys." High density of alcohol ads and outlets can contribute to underage drinking, youth violence, and youth alcohol abuse, according to the foundation.

Daniel Pokaski, chairman of the Boston's Licensing Board, said his panel has denied licenses in "saturated" areas. Recently, the state of Massachusetts awarded 31 communities (four of which are in Boston) $80,000 per year for three years to better assess underage drinking in their neighborhoods and develop strategies to address the issue.

"Clearly the liquor stores are something that we need to address," said Michael Kozu, a community coordinator at Boston's Project RIGHT. "They really impact ... a lot of folks who are drunk, disorderly, and cause disruption for people going to and from work and to school."

However, Bob Selby, a board member of the Massachusetts Package Stores Association, said, "The liquor stores take a lot of the beating for a lot of the underage drinking, but most of it comes from the parents."