A December tradition in Calvert County, one designed to prevent tragedy during what is supposed to be a joyous season, is underway. The county’s annual Designated Driver Campaign started Sunday, Dec. 1 and will extend into the first two days of the New Year.
The campaign is sponsored by Calvert Alliance Against Substance Abuse (CAASA) and the Calvert County Traffic Safety Council. It receives the support and cooperation of area restaurants, clubs, bars, and civic and service organizations, along with area residents. The effort is designed to prevent impaired driving.
The formal kickoff of the Designated Driver Campaign includes introduction of the year’s top local law enforcement citation-writers for the charges of driving under the influence (DUI) and driving while impaired (DWI).
The officers were recognized Tuesday morning, Dec. 3 during the weekly meeting of the Calvert County Commissioners.
The officers saluted this year were, from the Maryland State Police (MSP) Prince Frederick Barrack – Tfc. Christopher Esnes, Trooper Sean Matthews, Trooper Justin Oles, Tfc. David Saucerman and Tfc. Brian Wiesemann. The officers from the Calvert County Sheriff’s Office who were recognized – Dfc. Jeffrey Denton, Dfc. Roscoe T. Kreps, Cpl. Anthony C. Moschetto, Dfc. Moises Velasquez and Dfc. Wayne Wells.
“They make a difference out there,” said Calvert County Sheriff Mike Evans [R].
“I’ve worked in Southern Maryland my entire career and these deputies and troopers are some of the best,” said MSP Prince Frederick Barrack Acting Commander F/Sgt. Shane M. Bolger.
On Wednesday, Dec. 4, CAASA Coordinator Candace D’Agostino reported that as a part of the Designated Driver Month activities, Evans and Bolger will partner with CAASA to distribute designated driver wine bags to local liquor establishments. The bags will be used to remind customers of the importance of designating a driver when celebrating this holiday season. The distribution will take place Friday, Dec. 6.
Contact Marty Madden at marty.madden@thebaynet.com
