CBS councillors back MADD’s call to drive sober

By Craig Westcott

Members of the local chapter of Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) had an important seasonal message to deliver when they visited the CBS council chamber last week.

The visit began with the reading of a proclamation by Deputy Mayor Andrea Gosse for Project Red Ribbon which calls on Canadians to drive safely and sober. Participation is voluntary, she noted, but critical.
“Deaths and injuries resulting from impaired driving are needless tragedies and totally preventable,” said Gosse.

The campaign, which runs from the beginning of November to early in the New Year, consists of people displaying a red ribbon or decal on their cars or person as a visible symbol of their commitment to drive sober.

“A red ribbon or decal is also used to pay tribute to the thousands of Canadians who have lost their lives or who have been injured as a result of impaired driving,” Gosse added.

Mayor Darrin Bent said impaired driving is something everyone hopes can get eradicated.

Bent then invited the spokesperson for the Avalon Chapter of MADD, Martin Wiseman, to address council.
“I’m extremely proud to volunteer for MADD Canada,” said Wiseman, who was joined by fellow volunteers Sharon Smith and Terry Coates. “The work that we do is phenomenal across the country. The Project Red Ribbon campaign is such an important initiative. We all know that this time of year is when people go out and they celebrate. What we’re asking is to make sensible, safe choices and don’t hesitate, if you see someone you believe to be impaired, don’t hesitate to report that driver, because that could save the lives of your friends, your family, and loved ones.”

Wiseman thanked the Town of CBS for supporting the initiative.

“We really appreciate it, and thank you, everyone, for your support,” Wiseman said.