In the News

It’s time to get MADD about drinking and driving
BayToday.ca
April 1, 2010

Salvation Army Major Debbie Allen speaking from her heart told reporters Wednesday that more and more people need to get the message Don't Drink and Drive.

Allen, speaking at the launch of the Nipissing Chapter of Mothers Against Drunk Driving Strides for Change Walk, lost her brother to a drunk driver five years ago. She says her family was forever changed the day that driver made the decision to drink and drive.

“Ben will be 12 in June and so for the last 5 years he has lived without his father. His two sisters are also of course impacted by that,” she states.

“His older sister has had a very difficult time dealing with all of this, in fact is not even living at home with her mother (she) is in the care of the state the province because of her inability to deal with the situation.”

“People how go out and have fun doing whatever they do gambling and drinking should not drive --they know better. They know they should not drive.”

“Being tired impairs you so certainly even one glass of alcohol impairs and families are impacted.”

North Bay Police Chief Paul Cook opened his remarks by quoting David Kelly, MADD, Virginia chapter 2002,

“Education is important, but we're to the point where almost everyone knows they shouldn't drink and drive. The people who are still doing it are choosing to do it. The most effective way to deal with them is to arrest them.”

Cook says it takes the entire community to make a difference when it comes to people drinking and driving.

The event kicks off Saturday May 8th at 10am at the goes North Bay's waterfront

Funds raised from the event go to support MADD Nipissing's awareness campaigns.

To register call Jackie McLeod at 474-6233.