A regular meeting for the Safe Communities of Pickaway County Coalition turned into a celebration of local law enforcement, and an activity to highlight the pending kick off to “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over”. The annual Law Enforcement Awards highlights those individuals within the local law enforcement community for their work in enforcing impaired driving laws, or for education to the general public. This year, the Coalition added an award to highlight an individual or group who works to prevent impaired driving through advocacy, education, or volunteer efforts. The “Community Award” was made possible through nominations of Coalition members, and was also a part of the award ceremony today.
“We are very honored to work with the men and women of law enforcement in our efforts to save lives through education and public awareness that is the core priority of the Safe Communities of Pickaway County program”, noted Teresa C. Carper, Director for the program. “With the efforts of law enforcement, and the many hours they work to keep our roadways safe, the Safe Communities of Pickaway County program is dedicated to recognize those who go above and beyond to save lives.”
The following members of law enforcement were recognized at the August 13th meeting held at the Pickaway County Sheriff’s Office”:
*Ashville Police Department: Officer Tyler Devoe
*Circleville Police Department: Officer Matthew Hafey
*Ohio State Highway Patrol: Trooper Terry D. Vollmer
*Pickaway County Sheriff’s Office: Cpl. Christopher H. Hempstead
The first annual “Community Award” was presented to Tina Bobek, who retired as the nurse for Teays Valley High School this past school year. Ms. Bobek was nominated for her work with teens and her efforts to promote safe driving habits to students within the school. She has also served with the Safe Communities of Pickaway County Coalition since the start of the program, and has been an active supporter of D.A.R.E.
“Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” is the National Crackdown on Impaired Driving. The mobilization period begins on August 15th and will run through Labor Day. Other events include a kick-off celebration at the Circleville Walmart located on US 23. The event is scheduled for August 15th from 10:00 a.m. – 12 noon. Law enforcement will be a part of the event, and visitors can try using the impaired driving goggles, receive information, and talk with local law enforcement about safety behind the wheel.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration holds a variety of mobilization periods throughout the year to promote safe driving messages with the intent to save lives. You can review their mission and find information on traffic safety at www.nhtsa.gov .
