DUI Arrests, Fatalities Spike Between Thanksgiving and New Years
VISTA — The North Coastal Prevention Coalition’s 2nd Holly Jolly Mocktails hope to inspire sober, festive cheer at renowned North County eateries starting December 1 through New Years – a time when drunk driving crashes peak nationwide.
The holiday campaign partners with popular restaurants to support best business practices and encourage responsible choices by patrons during this festive season. By creating and promoting special, non-alcohol beverage options, participating restaurants join in the effort to prevent underage drinking and over-service of alcohol.
“Needless tragedies strikes far too many families at this time of year due to DUI arrests and roadway collisions,” said Aaron Byzak, president of NCPC. “Holly Jolly Mocktails allows everyone to share in the spirit of the season while staying safe on the roads.”
2012 Holiday DUI Statistics for San Diego County, according to the CHP:
- Thanksgiving: 61 Suspected Drunk Drivers Arrested; 1 Vehicle Occupant Killed
- Christmas: 28 Suspected Drunk Drivers Arrested; No Fatalities
- New Years: 58 Suspected Drunk Drivers Arrested; 5 Vehicle Occupants Killed
A recent San Diego County DUI program survey found nearly 50 percent of offenders reportedly had their last drinks at bars, clubs or restaurants prior to arrest. Holly Jolly Mocktail participating restaurants require Training for Intervention ProcedureS, or TIPS, for responsible alcohol service.
“All alcohol retailers should be required to attend responsible beverage server training,” Byzak said in support of Holly Jolly Mocktail participants. “Refusing to serve alcohol to minors and people who are obviously intoxicated is key for prevention.”
Where to Find Holly Jolly Mocktails
“Holiday Peppermint Patty” – Casa De Bandini: Chocolate and peppermint lovers don’t want to miss out on this creamy treat. http://www.casadebandini.com
“We’re happy to promote safe choices this holiday season by offering a festive non-alcoholic beverage to our diners who cannot or choose not to consume alcohol,” said Gilbert Gastelum, Manager at Casa De Bandini.
“Winter Warmer” – The Pony Room, Rancho Valencia: A spiced house made mulled cider served warm in a footed coffee mug to chase away the winter chill. http://www.ranchovalencia.com
“Our Winter Warmer is a nod to the fond memories the holidays offer to so many this time of year,” said Chris Simmons, Bar Manager at The Pony Room. “It’s a wonderful, sans alcohol offering that will certainly put you in the holiday spirit and warm you from head to toe.”
“Spiced Strawberry Apple Cider” – Searsucker Del Mar: A spicy blend of Evolution apple juice, Suja “Spark” Sour Cherry + Cayenne and a lemon wedge served in a bucket glass. Over the rocks or hot, it’s a holiday must! http://www.searsucker.com/del-mar/
Learn more about Holly Jolly Mocktails at www.northcoastalpreventioncoalition.org.
About North Coastal Prevention Coalition (NCPC)
The North Coastal Prevention Coalition aims to reduce the harm of alcohol, tobacco, marijuana and other drugs in the cities of Carlsbad, Oceanside and Vista through community action, education, support and collaboration. Funded in part by the County of San Diego, HHSA, Behavior Health Services; by SAMHSA though the STOP Act; and by the Tri-City Hospital Foundation and Walmart Foundation with grants to Vista Community Clinic.
** MEDIA CONTACT for Interviews or Comp’d Drink Sampling: Erica Holloway, Galvanized Strategies for NCPC, (619) 796-1651 or [email protected]
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