LAKE COUNTY — The Clearlake City Council designated the month of December as “Drunk and Drugged Driving (3D) Prevention Month in the City of Clearlake. Vice Mayor Judy Thein held the honor of presenting the proclamation designating such on Thursday.
The proclamation was accepted by Clearlake Police Chief Allan McClain and Sgt. Tom Clements. Thein, who is also founder of Team DUI, recognized the law enforcers for their dedication to Team DUI and their commitment to prevention, especially among the community”s youth.
“Chief McClain and Sgt. Clements are both members of Team DUI, each playing a huge role in the support of the team. They both work diligently with our youth, helping them cope with the peer pressure of underage drinking. They help our youth understand the importance of making healthy choices,” Thein said. “Speaking for Team DUI, this holiday season will be filled with social festivities that may include alcohol. If you chose to drink, please do not drink and drive. Please give the gift of life to everyone by making responsible choices.”
The proclamation designating December 2009 as Drunk and Drugged Driving (3D) Prevention Month reads as follows:
“WHEREAS, the December holiday season is traditionally one of the deadliest times of year for accidents caused by impaired drivers, the leading cause of death for people under the age of 30; and
“WHEREAS, the destruction inflicted on the community by impaired drivers is immeasurable, including higher taxes, higher health care costs, higher insurance premiums and the emotional costs families experience after losing a loved one; and
“WHEREAS, substance and alcohol abuse is especially damaging to our children, and is a contributing factor in the three leading causes of death for teenagers: accidents, homicides, and suicides; and
“WHEREAS, 3D Month promotes responsible hosting and beverage service in homes and local businesses, as well as implementation of a designated driver plan and the reporting of any person suspected of driving under the influence to law enforcement; and
“WHEREAS, the 3D Awareness campaign and Lake County AODS is to involve families, schools, businesses, churches, law enforcement agencies, and service organizations to establish an atmosphere of awareness, education, and on-going activities to prevent underage drinking, alcohol abuse, illegal drug use, and the tragedies from impaired driving.
“NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT PROCLAIMED that the City Council of the City of Clearlake does hereby designate the month of December 2009 as Drunk and Drugged Driving (3D) Prevention Month in Clearlake, in support of promoting awareness of the community”s health and safety needs arising from, or related to, alcohol and other drug issues.”
Contact Denise Rockenstein at drockenstein@clearlakeobserver.com or call her directly at 994-6444, ext. 11.
