Watered down

Editorial

A day fixed by law or custom on which ordinary business is suspended in commemoration of some event or in honor of some person.”
 
That is the definition of a holiday, according to Dictionary.com
 
However, it seems as though we commemorate these days by drinking in excess and honor them by receiving DUI’s.
 
… Or worse.
 
As St. Patrick’s Day approaches, many are making plans to yet again engage in this immoderate tradition.
 
Our society seems to think that abusing the likes of Jameson Irish Whiskey and Guinness somehow shows respect to this national holiday of Ireland.
 
The irresponsible then drive home.
 
Mothers Against Drunk Driving estimates that someone is killed by a drunk driver every 45 minutes, according to their Web site.
 
So in the time you’re attending a Wednesday morning English 101 course, two people have been killed.
 
Imagine that this person wasn’t merely a distant statistic, but a close friend.
 
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s 2008 traffic safety data, 3,434 people died in traffic accidents in California.
 
That was the highest number across the country.
 
Thirty percent of these deaths occurred with a blood alcohol level over the 0.08 legal limit for people of drinking age.

According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP), 221 DUI citations were issued statewide on March 17 last year, even though it fell on a Tuesday.
 
A holiday with a similar habit, Independence Day, was on a Saturday last year. The CHP issued 551 that day.
 
We cannot continue to celebrate our holidays in such a manner.
 
Everyone loves a party. People like to drink at these events and there is nothing wrong with that.
 
Prohibition is definitely not the answer.
 
However, a little common sense and concern can solve this problem quickly and effortlessly.
 
Call a cab. Designate a driver.
When an action is made, one must remember all the people whom it can potentially affect.
 
So while a night out drinking can make one feel free and fun, these joys fade the moment a crash occurs or sirens are heard.
 
As you prepare to celebrate tonight, keep those images in mind.
 
Everyone is well aware of how poor California’s fiscal situation is.
 
However, the up to $1,000 fine a DUI carries with it, legal and court fees notwithstanding, is not the best way to help.
 
 

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