CLEARLAKE — Congressman Mike Thompson made rounds in Lake County Wednesday stopping briefly in Clearlake to recognize Team DUI and its founder Judy Thein. The congressman presented Thein with a framed proclamation commending Team DUI”s efforts to raise awareness to the consequences of drinking and driving and the prevention of underage drinking.
Congressman Thompson embraced Thein as he told her that the efforts of Team DUI have not gone unnoticed. He said word of the team”s work has reached Washington, DC and then he delivered letters of support from State Senators Barbara Boxer and Dianne Feinstein.
Team DUI was borne through the tragic death of Thein”s daughter, Kellie, who was killed in an alcohol-related collision in 2005. “As I struggled to try to understand why this tragedy happened, her tragic death kindled inside of me a passion to help save lives and help others, so other families would not have to suffer and be scared because of senseless actions,” Thein said. “I realized that I could give her death a purpose by carrying forward her legacy of protecting our youth.”
Thompson praised Thein”s strength to overcome her own loss and turn her daughter”s death into something positive. “I don”t know how many of us could actually rally after something like that happens,” Thompson said as he wrapped his arm around Thein”s shoulders.
In the past year, the coalition of Team DUI members has grown tremendously with additional leaders from various professions joining in the good fight against drinking and driving and underage alcohol consumption. Several educators, law enforcement officials, service providers, political leaders and other advocates have extended their support to assist in spreading Team DUI”s message.
“Each member of the team gives unselfishly and courageously from their hearts as each one of us has had our lives affected by alcohol in one way or another. We share heartbreaking stories to help our youth and other understand that the choices they make all have consequences,” Thein said. “Each of us from Team DUI fulfills a different role, but when we work together our message is very powerful.”
Thein and Team DUI were instrumental in the passage of ordinances pertaining to underage drinking in all jurisdictions of the county. The team was responsible for bringing Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) programs to schools throughout the county as well. Team DUI makes regular appearances at elementary, middle and high schools where they share their stories with students of Lake County.
“Our team has made a major difference throughout our county and has had a major impact helping to insure the safety of our youth. Our team will go on touching lives as we have been entrusted with a very special mission,” Thein said.
“Today I can stand here and say I now understand why my daughter”s life was taken,” Thein continued. “Her life was the gift of life to our youth and others. Kellie is still touching lives, working her magic of protecting children through Team DUI as her legacy of love for children lives on. She continues to be the inspiration behind Team DUI.”
Thein was also recognized by fellow team member Clearlake Police Allan McClain who presented her with flowers on behalf of her “family” at City Hall. “The city views itself as a family and as a family we feel your pain and we want you to know that we are so very proud of you,” Chief McClain said.
Contact Denise Rockenstein at drockenstein@clearlakeobserver.com.
