CONTACT: Leslie Eikleberry, Director of Public Relations, 827-5541 ext. 1127

December 2, 2004

Kansas Wesleyan University, the Salina Area Prevention Partnership, and Salina South High School SADD chapter are joining forces to raise awareness about the hazards of driving while impaired by alcohol or drugs.

As a part of National Drunk and Drugged Driving Prevention Month in December, the three organizations will conduct a candle vigil to remember those who have died as a result of drunk or drugged driving accidents. The vigil, which is open to the public at no charge, is scheduled to begin at 6 p.m. December 11 in the circle drive in front of Kansas Wesleyan’s Pioneer Hall.

“We are inviting anyone, especially ones that have been touched by the loss of a loved one, in the community who would like to join us. The purpose of the Candle Vigil is as a reminder to drive safely and to build the communities’ awareness during the holiday season,” said Ann M. Ryan, Director Salina Area Prevention Partnership.

According to information on the National Center for Injury Prevention and Control (NCIPC) website, impaired driving will affect one in three Americans during their lifetime. Statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration show that in 2002, 41 percent of all traffic-related deaths (17,419 people) in the United States were the result of alcohol-related motor vehicle crashes.

Following are some quick facts about impaired driving from the NCIPC. If you would like additional information, please go to the NCIPC website at www.cdc.gov/ncipc/duip/spotlite/3d.htm.

* An alcohol-related motor vehicle crash kills someone every 30 minutes and nonfatally injures someone every two minutes.

*Each year, alcohol-related crashes in the United States cost about $51 billion.

*Fewer alcohol-related crashes occur when sobriety checkpoints are implemented.

For more information about the candlelight vigil in Salina, please contact Ann M. Ryan, Director of the Salina Area Prevention Partnership, at 825-6224.