In the News

MADD launches Red Ribbon campaign
Edmonton Sun
By Kristy Brownlee
November 5, 2009

City police Staff Sgt. Bill Horne knows all too well the anguish of having to tell parents their son or daughter has been killed by a drunk driver.

“Every time I think about it, pictures of doom flash in my mind and I have chills up and down my spine,” said Horne today.

He made the comments as Mothers Against Drunk Driving kicked off its 2009 Red Ribbon campaign outside police headquarters.

Officials encourage supporters to tie a ribbon on their vehicle antenna or key chain to honour those affected by drinking and driving.

This year in Edmonton, there have been five fatalities and eight serious injury collisions involving impaired driving. In 2008, seven people were killed in crashes with drunk drivers.

“It is very frustrating that impaired driving still happens. The message is out there, is it that they aren’t hearing it or they don’t want to hear it?” said Connie Blackport, administrative assistant for MADD’s local Chapter.

Ribbons can be picked up for donation at police headquarters downtown and other businesses.

As the Christmas season approaches, police will ramp up drunk driving enforcement.

Throughout November and December, check stops will be out at least four nights a week. Even so, it’s a year-round effort, Horne said.

Also see...

MADD Canada's Project Red Ribbon campaign