MADD Offers Tips for Safe Holiday Celebrating

Mothers Against Drunk DrivingPrint Story | Email Story
toofs ribbonThe month of December is one of the busiest on the nation's roadways, and also one of the most dangerous, because of a high incidence of alcohol and drug-related traffic crashes.  During December 2009, there were 753 people killed in traffic crashes that involved a drunk driver.

MADD has these tips to help ensure everyone's safety this holiday season:

  • Designate a sober driver before celebrations begin;
  • Plan safe parties, including providing non-alcoholic drink options to guests and not serving alcohol the last hour of the gathering;
  • Never serve alcohol to those under the age of 21;
  • If you've been drinking, use a taxi, call a sober friend or family member, or use public transportation;
  • If you see an impaired driver on the road, don't hesitate to contact your local law enforcement;
  • If you know someone who is about to drive or ride with a driver who is impaired, take the driver's keys and help them make other arrangements to get to where they are going safely.
Remember, impaired driving crashes are 100% preventable. Do your part this holiday season by choosing not to drive impaired and help others do the same.

This Holiday Season, Make Sure to Tie One On For Safety  

 

Started in 1986, Tie One On For Safety is MADD's longest running and most visible public awareness project. We ask holiday drivers to tie MADD red ribbons to visible locations on their vehicles, or place window decals on their vehicles' windows. The red ribbons represent drivers' pledges to drive safe, sober and buckled up, reminding others to do the same. To get your ribbon, email us at ma.state@madd.org.

Holiday Grief Tips   

 

For many people, this is a season of celebrations  However, the holidays can be a difficult time for those of us who are bereaved and coping with loss.  Many bereaved and injured people face this season with apprehension, often in fear of their emotional reactions to what are supposed to be happy, memorable events.   Here are some suggestions for people experiencing bereavement and/or injury for coping during the holidays.

This project is supported through the Massachusetts Office for Victim Assistance(MOVA) though the Drunk Driving Trust Fund (DDTF).

 

If you would like to contribute information on this article, contact us at info@iberkshires.com.

Dalton Day Returns This Saturday

By Sabrina DammsiBerkshires Staff
DALTON, Mass. — The town's popular Dalton Day festival is returning this weekend after a year's hiatus.
 
The event will kick off this Saturday at 11 a.m. and runs until 4 p.m. in the field in front of the Senior Center. 
 
The community celebration was established in 2023 by the Cultural Council in an effort to increase resident participation at town meetings while also showcasing the area's welcoming, diverse, artistic and sporty atmosphere. In 2024, the event brought together 300 residents. 
 
"The primary mission of Dalton Day is to foster a strong sense of community, build civic pride, and bring residents together through a shared celebration of local culture, music, and food," said Jeannie Ingram, Select Board member and cultural council chair, and Lori Venezia, executive assistant to the town manager. 
 
The event provides an accessible and free platform for "civic education, community bonding, and supporting local businesses, artisans, makers, and culture more broadly," they said.
 
The festival strengthens the fabric of the town both civically and economically by connecting grassroots organizations with residents, fostering a shared sense of belonging, and providing free, family-friendly entertainment.
 
It also serves as an opportunity for community members to meet with local officials and a couple of state officials. State Sen. Paul Mark and state Rep. Leigh Davis will be coming from Beacon Hill to speak at the event. 
 
View Full Story

More Stories