To the editor:
I was glad to read in the Record last month that the mock DUI car crash/trial at South Whidbey High School was a success. The students are fortunate for the active role their school took to make this happen.
The Impaired Driving Impact Panel of Island County returned to provide its annual pre-prom safety activity “Choose To Be Buzz Free” prior to the event. Trooper Dave Martin of the Washington State Patrol administered mock field sobriety tests to several students and answered questions. The red “Choices 4 Life” wristbands students received were popular, and many came by to check out the IDIPIC display table and pick up brochures.
Of those who helped that day with the mock trial/crash, I’d like to note several have long been speakers with IDIPIC: Sheriff Mark Brown, Coroner Dr. Robert Bishop, Trooper Martin and Island County Prosecutor Greg Banks.
IDIPIC’s presence at South Whidbey High School was made possible by our Partners in Prevention Porter Whidbey Insurance, Whidbey Telecom and State Farm Insurance. They also helped to make possible the safety event “Th!nk, Don’t Drink” at Langley Middle School on Friday, May 22 that nearly 100 students participated in.
Speaking of safety, I invite readers to a South Whidbey safety event that happens the first Saturday of every month: IDIPIC’s DUI/Underage Drinking prevention panel held at Trinity Lutheran Church’s hall on Highway 525 in Freeland. Doors open at 12:45 p.m. and the panel is open to the public for free. Get more details on IDIPIC at www.idipic.org.
Over 40 attended our June 6 panel. A representative sampling of comments:
“I really admire these efforts to increase awareness of this awful issue. The speakers, videos and presentation were very convincing.” (SWHS driver’s education student)
“I have been driving for 32 years, and am still learning. Very helpful, very powerful. Well done. Thanks.” (parent of driver’s education student)
“This hit me right in the heart. I ‘see’ now why DUI isn’t just selfish and stupid; it’s an accident waiting to happen. It will never happen with me again. Thanks for doing this.” (Client)
Karen Lewis
Board President
IDIPIC
