Well, it’s that time of year, the same as every other year, when we good citizens take one last parting shot at the old year before embracing what is sure to be a fantastic year ahead. In this case it is dumping pesky old 2008 and all the turmoil and troubles, old presidents, disastrous economy, the never-ending conflicts in the Middle East and more; all in favor of welcoming in 2009.
I say good riddance! It’s about time 2008 went away!
Of course, when we all wake up (about noon or 1 p.m.) on Thursday, after our head clears, the pain behind our eyeballs dissipates, the itchy teeth have calmed and the extremely loud cat marching across the timpani drum-like living room floor has gone outside; after we have gotten over the embarrassment of whatever idiotic thing we did at last night’s party, and the revelry and debauchery is forgotten; or in some cases we are bailed out from the jail cell we spent the night in, not a whole lot will have changed.
Well, one thing will, for the next few months most of us will write the wrong year on our checks and other mundane things requiring us to be cognizant and coherent and actually remember what day it is.
There are ways to avoid that New Year morning feeling; ways to survive the night. The first of which, and probably the easiest, is to avoid the New Year’s Eve parties altogether. Stay at home, pop some champagne and enjoy a toast as the ball drops in Times Square.
If you find yourself at one of the parties, make sure you have a designated driver or at the very least take advantage of the various sober ride programs available in St. Mary’s County. Calvert does not have a sober ride program, but Calvert residents that attend St. Mary’s Parties may be dropped off in Calvert from with the St. Mary’s program.
TheBAYNET.com asked St. Mary’s County Sheriff Timothy K. Cameron for a statement about New Year’s Eve and here’s what he had to say:
“New Year’s Eve is a night of festive celebration where friends and family gather to ring in a new year. Unfortunately, the evening can also bring danger when motorists combine driving and alcohol consumption. A night of merriment can quickly turn into a night of great tragedy.
“Our agency will have an increased number of patrol deputies on duty New Year’s Eve to conduct drunken driving saturation patrols and to look for motorists who operate their vehicles aggressively or in a manner which would indicate impairment.
“It is our hope that the night will be enjoyable and safe for all. Please drink responsibly and designate a sober driver. Designated drivers save others from arrest, accidents and death. If you cannot reach a sober driver, call a taxi or simply spend the night, if possible.
“In addition, buckle up! Seatbelt use is the best defense against other impaired drivers who may be out on the road.”
TBN joins Sheriff Cameron in wishing each and every one of its readers a very Happy New Year and a safe holiday season.