STARK COUNTY SAFE COMMUNITIES

WORKING TOGETHER TO PREVENT TRAFFIC INJURIES
 

David YMCA Senior Health & Fitness Day - May 26, 2010

Safe Communities partnered with AAA and Jackson Police Department at the Senior Health & Fitness Day.  Two of our coalition representatives from AAA Auto Club of Ohio were on hand to test senior’s brake reaction time and speak with them about driving safety.  The brake reaction timer is an interactive way to determine what your braking reaction time is and steps you can follow to improve it if necessary.

Seat Belt Challenge - May 22, 2010

Safe Communities, Pro Football Hall of Fame, Canton City Health Department, Perry Police, Stark County Sheriff’s Office, Ohio National Guard and Aultman Health Foundation partnered to put on the annual Seat Belt Challenge at the Pro Football HOF.  Other contributors to the program include Esber Beverage, Canton Chair Rental, Lasting Impressions, Sluggers & Putters, Arthur Middleton Foundation, American Family Insurance, AAA, Pizza Oven, Buckeye Protective Service, Regos, Stark State College, Dumonts, Fitness Quest and Sam’s Club. 
40 teams from local high schools, law enforcement and businesses registered to compete in this year’s event focusing on Seat Belt use and Impaired Driving education.  Participants received free admission to the HOF, goody bags, T-shirts, travel mugs, Sluggers & Putters Mini Golf Pass and much more.  Winning teams received a large trophy and free passes to Cedar Point.  Free popcorn, cotton candy and pizza were available also. 

Our winners this year were Timken Football, Perry cheerleaders, and Perry Police Department.  Congratulations to those winners and Thank You to our many Supporters!

QUAKER STEAK AND LUBE BIKE NIGHT - May 19, 2010

Safe Communities attended bike night at Quaker Steak and Lube Restaurant to promote motorcycle safety on our roadways. This was a fun event where we were able to interact with motorcycle riders and motor vehicle drivers alike. We set up a booth and display and handed out kickstand plates with a safety message, reflective helmet stickers, vehicle magnets, and had a drawing for free Motorcycle Ohio Training Classes. Two Motorcycle Ohio Instructors were on hand to answer any questions regarding motorcycle safety that the attendees had. 

Community Forum - May 18, 2010

Safe Communities was invited to attend the Oho Attorney General’s Community Forum held at Stark State College.  We were able to set up a table and display at the event and hand out traffic safety materials to all who attended the event.  Thanks to all who stopped by our Safe Communities booth and picked up information!

GlenOak High School Graduation Program - May 10, 2010

Coalition Member, Andrew Hayes of the Self Hope Program had the opportunity to address the entire senior body with his impaired driving message “The Perils and Byproducts of Drinking and Driving”.  Andrew spoke to approximately 450 students and shared his personal story of the lifelong consequences of one bad decision, letting the students know that these consequences can happen to anyone at anytime.   This message is very important because our graduating students have their whole lives and endless opportunities in front of them, but this can change with just one bad decision.  Our thanks to Andrew for sharing this important message.

Start smart program – Canton South High School - May 4, 2010

Safe Communities and members of the Start smart team  spent the afternoon at Canton South High School working with the  students to promote prom and graduation safety.  The gym was converted into an obstacle course that students got to attempt while driving our Start smart  impaired driving vehicle and got a first hand experience of what if feels like to lose control of a vehicle when you drive impaired or distracted in any way. Many thanks to the students who provided our team with a delicious Cinco De Mayo Lunch when we finished the driving course!

SAFE KIDS DAY - May 1, 2010

Safe Communities joined with Safe Kids Coalition at Safe Kids Day 2010 held at the Exploration Gateway building at Sippo Lake in Perry Township. Over 200 children registered at the Safe Kids tent, participated in the activities and were eligible for prizes. Safe Kids reports that over 20 agencies attended and brought the safety message to the children in Perry Township. Safe Communities was on hand to weigh and measure children and discuss parents the proper restraint systems for their families. Safe Communities was proud to be part of this special event!
 

Start smart program – Marlington High School - April 30, 2010

Safe Communities and members of the Start smart team  spent the afternoon at Marlington High School working with the SADD students to promote prom and graduation safety.  The gym was converted into an obstacle course that students got to attempt while driving our Start smart  impaired driving vehicle.  Students also had a chance to “Walk the Line” while wearing fatal vision goggles and try their hand at our distracted driving game.  Teen driving CD’s and other educational materials were made available to the students. We had a wonderful day working with Marlington SADD students and the entire school!

Students for Sobriety Prom Program – Alliance High School - April 30, 2010

Safe Communities was fortunate to partner with Alliance High School, Alliance Police Department and Q92 ‘s live broadcast from the high school to promote their prom safety message.  Also on hand at the event were Judge Lavery, Alliance Law Director Andrew Zumbar, Police Chief Scott Griffith & other members of the Alliance PD, OSP Lt. Eric Sheppard, Andrew Hayes, Charlotte DiFranco, Pat DeLuca, Alliance SADD students and advisor, and other school officials.  The students participated in many activities throughout the morning that included the use of fatal vision goggles and a pedal bike course, a distracted driving game, pledge card signing, as well as hearing from several speakers on some very important topics. Perhaps the most memorable part of the morning was when the students had the opportunity to sling donuts at police officers and if they hit the officer,  winning whatever prize was in his pocket.

Canton Calvary Health Fair - April 21, 2010

Safe Communities members attended the Canton Calvary Mission Student Health Fair to share our traffic safety message with the students.  We spoke with and distributed candy with a safety message, educational materials, storybooks, activity books and stickers to approximately 50 students.  The students had a good time visiting all the booths and collecting the goodies offered, as well as learning many important lessons.

Stark State College Open House - April 18, 2010

Safe Communities members attended the Open house at Stark State College. We greeted over 600 prospective students and their families at the door and gave them a bag with a traffic safety message on it and in it to collect all the paperwork from the college. We also had an informative traffic safety display that got a lot of attention. As Stark State is a commuter college this is a good venue to share our safe driving message.

North Canton YMCA Healthy Kids Day - April 17, 2010

Safe Communities participated in North Canton’s YMCA Healthy Kids Day Event again this year by setting up a booth and offering a free prize drawing for the kids.  We were able to talk with many of the 800 attendees about the importance of seat belt use and safe driving decisions and distribute brochures, activity books, storybooks and activity sheets dealing with traffic safety issues.  This was a great event for all filled with food, fun, and education!

High School Seat Belt ChecksApril – May 2010

During Prom season, Safe Communities partners conducted seat belt checks at 6 local high schools and checked the seat belt use for 1817 students.  The overall seat belt use at the high schools was a terrific 92%. Our students deserve our praise for this high seat belt use rate.  Students who were buckled up received a ticket for a prize drawing for gas cards supplied by BellStores, Sheetz, Getgo and American Family Insurance.  Please be sure to thank these businesses for their dedication to the safety of our teen drivers.    The schools who participated were Tuslaw, GlenOak, Jackson, Canton South, Alliance, and St. Thomas Aquinas.  This program is available to all high schools during the year.  If anyone would like more information regarding this program please contact (330)430-3835.
Remember – Seat Belts Save Lives!

Mercy Medical Employee Wellness/Safety Fair -  April 15, 2010

Stark County Safe Communities participated in Mercy Medical’s Employee Wellness/Safety Fair to promote safe driving decisions.  We were able to use our Intoxiclock to address the impaired drivinproblem in Stark County in a fun, interactive and informative way.

Louisville YMCA Healthy Kids Day - April 5. 2010

Safe Communities once again teamed up with Safe Kids to participate in the Louisville YMCA Healthy Kids Day.  Information was shared with the participants on proper seat belt use for families.  We were also on hand to answer questions about new restraint laws.  

Youtz Elementary Health & Safety Fair - March 25, 2010

Stark County Safe Communities teamed up with the Safe Kids Coalition to man booth at the Youtz Elementary Health & Safety Fair.  We were able to talk to parents and hand out important information on seat belt use for families.

TIPS Server Training - March 4, 2010

Esber Beverage provided TIPS Server training for local businesses.  Safe Communities, Ohio Investigative Unit and Stark County Sheriff’s Office joined in the effort at the training.  Thirty-seven servers/owners/managers for local businesses were on hand to participate and receive a state certified training certificate.  Participants were educated in liquor licensing laws, how to spot fake ID’s, how to spot the behavioral cues of intoxication, and how to verify the age of a person.  Students at the class were encouraged to take what they had learned back to their place of business and practice safe alcohol sales and service.  They were giving posters, clings, table tents, and other educational materials to use over the St. Patrick’s Day holiday and throughout the year in their business to promote these safe practices.

Alliance Alcohol Sales Seminar - February 27, 2010

Safe Communities joined the Alliance Police Department, Alliance Law Director and the Ohio Investigative Unit in a seminar to educate sellers/server of alcohol regarding underage and over-serving sales.  Around 50 retailers, local college students and other community members were present.  Ohio Investigative Unit conducted the ASK (Alcohol Server Knowledge) program, which is a state certified program for servers of alcohol.  Businesses who have certified servers may receive deductions on their insurance rates, as well has have servers who are trained to spot underage buyers, intoxicated persons, and other liquor violations. OIU also explained the liquor license law and the consequences for violating their liquor permit.  Andrew Zumbar, Alliance Law Director discussed the consequences, both criminal and civil of violating permits, underage sales, over serving, and impaired driving.  Alliance Police Department reported on the Operation Last Call program, which was conceived to stop underage sales and drinking.  Safe Communities talked about impaired driving and how it effects Stark County.  Servers were encouraged to practice safe serving during the up-coming St. Patrick’s Day holiday and were given educational materials to use in their business. 

JFS PROGRAM - February 26, 2010

Safe Communities joined with Job and Family Services and Safe Kids to help educate parents in the proper way to restrain their children and their family when riding in a vehicle.  A representative from Safe Communities joined with members from Safe Kids Coalition to hold classes to educate parents and then car seats and booster seats purchased through a grant by JFS were given to parents free of charge.  With the new booster seat laws in Ohio this class was very beneficial to parents. 

Walsh University Health & Wellness Fair - February 11, 2010

Stark County Safe Communities and members from Stark County Health Department, Stark County Sheriff’s Office, AAA East Central, and SelfHope set up our Intoxiclock at the health fair and demonstrated the effects alcohol has on the body and how Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) works.  Students and staff participated in a personalized hands one activity to see how their personal drinking habits can impact their abilities not only when driving, but in school, work, sports, or any activity they participate in.  Andrew Hayes of SelfHope was on hand to share his important story with the participants.  The Intoxiclock is part of the START SMART  program.  It was a fun and educational day!

START SMART PROGRAM – Glen Oak High School - January 12 – January 13, 2010

Safe Communities took our START SMART PROGRAM  on the road to GlenOak and used our fatal vision goggles, Walk the Line Program, Fatal Distraction Program and START SMART  vehicle with students over a two day period.  START SMART  team members representing Safe Communities, Stark County Sheriff’s Office, Perry Police Department and Aultman Hospital were on hand to educate students in the importance of driving safety.  The Fatal Distraction program was used to show students the dangers of cell phone use, texting, or any distraction while they are behind the wheel of a vehicle.  Students were given the opportunity to see how their ability to do a simple task diminishes with each additional task added.  We also used the Fatal Vision goggles, Walk the Line program and the START SMART  vehicle in a interactive lesson on impaired driving.  Students got behind the wheel of our START SMART  vehicle and attempted to navigate a simple obstacle course in both normal and impaired modes to simulate the loss of control experienced when driving impaired.  This program was made possible by the Stark County Sheriff’s Office and Louisville Police Department and the 2010 program was sponsored by American Family Insurance. 

Marlington High School Program - December 14, 15, & 17, 2009

Stark County Safe Communities partnered with Marlington High School and their School Resource Officer to present the Fatal Vision, Fatal Reaction, Walk the Line, and Fatal Reflections program to health class students.  The program was over a three-day period and addressed five classes each day. We were able to reach over 100 students each day with our safety message in a fun and interactive method.

Lights on For Life - November 16, 2009

Congratulation goes out to SADD Chapters across Ohio for their hard work on the Lights for Life Campaign.  Their purpose was to deliver a positive message to other teens and raise awareness to the serious issues that drivers face when they are behind the wheel.  They provided 500 Lights for Life window clings to the coalition to distribute.  These were distributed to over 17 different agencies who pledged to display them on their vehicles, as well as drive with their lights on on November 16^th to show support for safe driving.  It is very encouraging to see our young people so interested in traffic safety – they are our best resource!

TIPS  - Community Server Training - November 6, 2009

Safe Communities partnered with the Stark County Sheriff’s Office, Ohio Investigative Unit and Esber Beverage to provide free state certified server training to community residents who work in the alcohol serving business.  Esber Beverage provided all training materials, as well at trainers for the event.  Stark County Sheriff’s Office donated the classroom space and a representative from the Ohio Investigative Unit was on hand to answer any questions participants had.  Twenty-seven servers from 8 different locations were trained.  Materials designed to promote the safe sale of alcohol were distributed.  Safe Communities used the new Intoxiclock during the training for a hands on demonstration about BAC (blood alcohol content).   This training is part of an on-going training offered to servers in an effort to educate them as our first line of defense against impaired driving.  A special thanks goes out to our partners for their help in this important training.

Start Smart  Vehicle – Jackson High School - November 6,2009

Members of the Stark County Safe Communities Coalition took the new impaired driving vehicle to Jackson High School during a basketball game between Jackson Middle School employees and the Ohio State Patrol.  We were able to set up our driving course in a second gym the put parents and students through the course.  This is a great way to get a hands on experience of just what it is like to lose control of a vehicle.  It helps to teach not only the dangers of driving impaired and distracted, but also any bad driving decision. 

Alliance High School Distracted Driving Program - November 4, 2009

Students from the Media Class at Alliance High School, along with Kyle Schwarz, Director of the Carnation Cable Channel 11 at the school, interviewed the coalition coordinator for their station.  They also taped a demonstration with some of the students of the Fatal Distraction program that is new to our coalition. These programs aired the week of November 30, five times, on the Alliance cable channel and also during the Friday Lunch Program at Alliance High School.  Distracted Driving is a real concern for all driving, and especially for our new teen drivers.  This program was a great way for teens to educate teens on safe driving practices.  We appreciate the Alliance students’ enthusiasm for this project!

SIDNE Media Event/Training - October 30, 2009

As a way to introduce the many new programs purchased by Stark County Sheriff’s Office and Louisville Police Department for Safe Communities to use to promote traffic safety in the county we held a media and training event at Oakwood Middle School.  We set up the programs (SIDNE, Fatal Reaction, Fatal Reflections, Walk the Line and Intoxiclock in the gym and demonstrated the programs to the media present and to other agencies in the community.  Check out the video of some of the local police chiefs driving the SIDNE on the Canton Repository’s website.  After the presentation members from the agencies attending were offered training in the use of the programs that will be offered free to local schools, colleges, and other community groups.  We trained an additional nine community members from different agencies and will continue to build our team. 

Fall Family Festival - October 30, 2009

Safe Communities partnered with Stark County Sheriff’s Office to participate in the Fall Family Festival at the Cathedral of Life.  Candy was provided to pass out to the children in the families attending the event and safety materials were provided by the coalition.   This was a great way to meet the public in a fun environment and to get our safety message out.

Walk This Way - October 30, 2009

Safe Communities partnered again with Safe Kids to participate in their Walk This Way event at Minerva Elementary.  This program consists of a day of several safety messages and we were able to reach 810 children.  They went to several stations that covered many issues such as what to do around traffic, crossing streets, and many other topics.  They each received a goody bag stuffed with prizes and educational books, activity sheets and flyers.

ASK Server Training

Stark County Sheriff’s Office, Safe Communities, Ohio Investigative Unit and Anti-Drug and Alcohol Coalition partnered to offer free ASK Server training to owners, managers, and employees of local drive-thrus and carryouts.  We were able to train 28 people in safe alcohol sales practices.  This program is always well received and books very quickly.  As these businesses are an important part of our line of defense in impaired driving it is always beneficial when they can receive additional training to better equip them to practice safe sales. 

Drink and Drive …Crash and Die    October 22, 2009

Stark County Safe Communities partnered with Mount Union College to present a program during National Collegiate Alcohol Awareness Week.  The college and the students planned several important programs for Thursday.  These included an all day Drunk Driving Crash Display, a Drunk Driving Crash Simulation, a SIDNE (Impaired Driving Vehicle) demonstration by Stark County Sheriff’s Office and Safe Communities, CHOICES Informational Fair, Speaker Michael Gershe and other programs supplied by our coalition to include Fatal Reaction, Fatal Reflection, Intoxiclock and Walk the Line.  Chief Rick Perez and Lt. Tim George were able to have several students from the college try out the new SIDNE vehicle and to experience first hand how hard driving is when impaired.  It was a fun and educational evening.  Congratulations go out to Mount Union and the students. 

TRUNK or TREAT    October 22,2009

Stark County Safe Communities partnered with the Stark County Sheriff’s Office in attending the Trunk or Treat activity sponsored by the Massillon Parks and Recreation Department.  We decorated a Sheriff’s Office cruiser in the spirit of the season and passed out goody bags with candy, badges, and safety books to over 400 children.  It was a fun and educational night for all!

PUT THE BRAKES ON FATALITIES DAY    October 10, 2010

Safe Communities participated in the National Put the Brakes on Fatalities Day on October 10^th in an effort to encourage drivers to think about the choices they make when they get behind the wheel of a vehicle or anytime they are on our roadways.  Letters were sent to over 400 local churches in an effort to have them toll their church bells 22 times at noon on October 10^th.  This was in memory of the 22 people who lost their lives in traffic crashes in Stark County last year.  The churches were also asked to remember the families who experienced these losses in their services, bulletins, marquees or newsletters.    Posters and stickers that were donated to us from the Put the Brakes on Fatalities Day campaign were also distributed in the community, as well as information being sent to the media agencies.  We need to remember that the numbers we talk about when we discuss fatalities, are real people and they had real families who are still suffering from these tragedies.  Together, we can put the brakes on these crashes.

MOFFIT HEIGHTS PRE SCHOOL     October 6, 2009

MALONE UNIVERSITY WOMEN’S HEALTH FAIR     September 22, 2009

Stark County Safe Communities partnered with the Stark County Anti-Drug Coalition and participated in Malone’s Women’s Health Fair.  The Intoxiclock (BAC Calculator) was used and some students who participated received extra credit for this learning experience.  This was a big hit with the students and the staff at the college and a very useful tool in discussing alcohol abuse and impaired driving with the students. 

SENIOR DRIVING PROGRAM     September 17, 2009

Safe Communities partnered with AAA East Central, the Alliance Police Department, and Alliance Senior Center to provide a free 90-minute defensive driving course to seniors.  The program covered information on driving situations in Alliance, inclement weather and helpful tips on how to drive better, longer and safer in Stark County.  Refreshments were provided as well as informative driving tips.  The program was made available for other senior groups at that time and seniors could have their vehicles checked for seat and mirror adjustment. 

STARK COUNTY FAIR    September 1, 2009 – September 7, 2009

Stark County Sheriff’s Office graciously allowed Safe Communities to share their booth at the Stark County Fair this year.  We were able to make contact with thousands of people in our community, answer questions, and hand out traffic safety materials.  We also had a video playing in the booth for much of the time.  We conducted a survey for the Over the Limit, Under Arrest Campaign during the fair and held a drawing of the completed surveys.  Prizes of auto safety kits and a AAA membership were given.  We would like to thank AAA East Central and the Ohio Auto Club for their prize donations.  This survey showed that 58.19% of local residents had heard of our Over The Limit, Under Arrest Campaign. 

OVER THE LIMIT UNDER ARREST    August 21, 2009 – September 7, 2009

     Stark County partnered with local law enforcement agencies, court systems, Prosecutor’s Offices and safety coalitions to conduct a countywide Over the Limit Under Arrest Campaign in an effort to let the residents know that driving impaired in Stark County is dangerous and not acceptable.
     The level of community support for this campaign was excellent, especially considering this was our first attempt.  We had twenty departments and agencies that committed support to the campaign, as well as resolutions and/or support from six local trustee offices.
     As a pre-campaign activity, Esber Beverage held a free community wide TIPS training on August 14^th and employees from several local business who serve alcohol were trained in the proper procedure for alcohol sales.
     At the start of the campaign, Safe Communities sent out approximately 700 postcards to individuals who had active OVI warrants advising them of the importance of not only taking care of the warrant, but also the dangers of impaired driving. 
     On Wednesday, August 26^th, Canton Municipal Court in conjunction with the Canton City Prosecutor’s Office offered an OVI Amnesty Day that resulted in 26 OVI warrants being cleared and $5,094 being collected for fines and costs.
     On Friday, August 28^th  22 local law enforcement officers participated in a OVI warrant roundup in which at least 75 warrant attempts were made and 5 people were arrested on outstanding OVI warrants. 
     Several thousand table-tents with an impaired driving message were delivered to local bars and restaurants and numerous banners, posters and lighted message boards were placed in pertinent locations in the county.
     Even if some of our numbers could have been better, we got our message out to every home that received a postcard or had officers knocking on their door, those who appeared in court, and everyone who came in contact with any of our educational materials. 
     The campaign also resulted in several small articles being placed in local newspapers and a radio interview on WHBC.  Media support will be one area where we will place more emphasis on in future campaigns.

MASSILLON FUN FEST - August 8, 2009

Stark County Safe Communities participated in the annual Massillon Fun Fest in downtown Massillon.  Despite the rainy day we were able to talk to many people who braved the weather for some fun activities that included crafts, shows, entertainment, safety presentations and much, much more.  We passed out educational materials, candy, and prizes in a free drawing.  The day was fun and educational for everyone!

Test Your Brake Reaction Time FREE - August 17, 2009, 8 to 11 am,
Westfield Mall Food Court - 

FREE T.I.P.S. Class -  
On Premise training class August 14, 9am to 12 pm

PRO FOOTBALL HOF ENSHRINEMENT FESITVAL COMMUNITY PARADE - August 2, 2009

Safe Communities joined the 132 units that marched in the parade this year. Lawn chairs lined the parade route to see the many units who participated. Safe Communities had volunteers carry banners on seatbelt safety, sober driving, and motorcycle safety, but the high point of our group were definitely Vince and Larry, our own Crash Dummies.

JACKSON/BELDEN FOOD FEST & BALLOON LIFT OFF - July 31, 2009 & August 1, 2009

Safe Communities joined Jackson Police Department at their tent during this large Hall of Fame event. Our hard working volunteers handed out thousands of bags of free popcorn for a promise to wear a seatbelt. We played cornhole with the fatal vision goggles with large numbers of people to educate on the dangers of impaired driving. We were able to hand out several donated prizes, all with a safety message in our free “red bead” drawing. This was definitely a fun and educational event!

QUAKER STEAK AND LUBE BIKE NIGHT - July 22, 2009

Safe Communities attended another bike night at Quaker Steak and Lube Restaurant to promote motorcycle safety on our roadways. This was a fun event where we were able to interact with motorcycle riders and motor vehicle drivers alike. We handed out kickstand plates with a safety message, reflective helmet stickers, candy with a motorcycle safety message, and had a drawing for free Motorcycle Ohio Classes and shirts.

PLAIN TOWNSHIP BICENTENNIAL FESTIVAL - July 18, 2009

Stark County Safe joined in Plain Township’s Bicentennial Festival at Diamond Park to promote our traffic safety message. Volunteers handed out free candy with a traffic safety message, used the fatal vision goggles, and had free prize drawings, as well as speaking with and providing the public with educational materials.

2009 HERITAGE DAY FESTIVAL – NIMISHILLEN TOWNSHIP - July 18, 2009

Stark County Safe Communities participated in the Nimishillen Township Heritage Day Festival at Molly Stark, along with numerous other participants. Among the activities included in the event were costumed characters, pony rides, inflatables, Mad Science, Sheriff’s Command Post, crafts, food vendors, face painting, K-9 demonstrations and much, much more. We were able to have a free prize drawing and use the fatal vision goggles to educate against the dangers of driving impaired.

STARK STATE COLLEGE OPEN HOUSE - July 15, 2009

Safe Communities members attended the Open house at Stark State College. We greeted over 600 prospective students and their families at the door and gave them a bag with a traffic safety message on it and in it to collect all the paperwork from the college. We also had an informative traffic safety display that got a lot of attention. As Stark State is a commuter college this is a good venue to share our safe driving message.

CHURCH OF GOD SAFETY FESTIVAL - July 11, 2009

Stark County Safe Communities participated in an event at the Church of God in southwest Canton. We were on hand to distribute traffic safety materials to parents and storybooks and coloring books on safety to the children. It was a fun event for all!

FREE T.I.P.S. Class -  
On Premise training class August 14, 9am to 12 pm

STARK COUNTY PARKS CLASSIC CAR SHOW - June 7, 2009 Safe Communities participated in the 3rd Annual Car Show at beautiful Sippo Lake Park in Perry Township. Many events were going on in addition to the car show that included music, food, Wildlife Discovery activities, Canalway Center tours and prizes, as well as the distribution of educational materials and activities on traffic safety issues. PLAIN 2009 BICENTENNIAL CRUISE-IN CAR SHOW - June 6, 2009 We had a beautiful night and a large crowd turned out for the Cruise In at GlenOak in Plain Township. While enjoying the large display of classic cars, members of Safe Communities used the fatal vision goggles and the corn hole game to simulate impaired driving and the dangers of doing so. OHIO SAFETY FEST - June 6, 2009 Over 1500 people attended the Ohio Safety Fest at Clay’s Park to enjoy the park and the many activities of the event. Numerous organizations participated and provided entertainment, prizes and education to families. There were fire trucks, police cars, helicopters, Sheriff’s Office Command Post, K-9 Units, EMT squads, the Coast Guard, Marines, Rolling Thunder, face painting and much, much more. Safe Communities was on hand to use the fatal vision goggles with the corn hole game to educate on the dangers of impaired driving. HIGH SCHOOL SEATBELT CHECKS - April and May 2009 Safe Communities partnered with Aultman Hospital, local law enforcement agencies, fire departments and schools to conduct surprise seatbelt checks at local high schools. Perry High School, Jackson High School, Louisville High School, Tuslaw High School, GlenOak High School and Central Catholic High Schools participated in our checks. Gas Cards for prize drawings for all students who wore seatbelts were provided by American Family Insurance, Bell Stores, Getgo and Louisville Police Department. Posters, pledge cards, videos, and educational materials on seatbelt use were also provided to the schools. This was a great way for the community to reinforce to our teenagers the importance of wearing their seatbelts on every trip! SEATBELT CHALLENGE - May 16, 2009 Twenty-three teams of students from area high schools competed, along with several adult teams, in our annual Seatbelt Challenge at the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Students competed in an obstacle course that involved buckling up in a Humvee and running through an inflatable obstacle course wearing fatal vision goggles. There were prizes, free food, goody bags, and many activities for the crowd to enjoy while learning about the importance of seatbelt use and sober driving. We send a big THANK YOU to our many sponsors of the event – Arthur Middleton Foundation, American Family Insurance, Contessa’s Pizzeria, East of Chicago Pizza, Esber Beverage, Rego’s Sporting Goods, Sam’s Club, Sluggers & Putters, Stark State College of Technology, Waikem Auto Group, Buckeye Protective Services, and Pepsi. We can’t forget our many partners. Without them there would be no Seatbelt Challenge – Army National Guard, Aultman Health Foundation, Canton Chair Rental, Canton City Health Department, OVI Task Force, Perry Police Department, Pro Football Hall of Fame, Rock 106.9, and the Stark County Sheriff’s Office. We also send thanks to all of the volunteers who gave up their Saturday morning to come out and help with the event. It was a great day! SAFE KIDS DAY - April 25, 2009 Safe Communities joined with Safe Kids Coalition at Safe Kids Day 2009 held at Edison Junior High in Perry Township. Over 470 children registered at the Safe Kids tent, participated in the activities and were eligible for prizes. Safe Kids reports that over 20 agencies attended and brought the safety message to the children in Perry Township. Safe Communities was on hand to weigh and measure children and discuss parents the proper restraint systems for their families. Safe Communities was proud to be part of this special event! MALONE UNIVERSITY – CHRIS SKINNER PROGRAM - April 24, 2009 Stark County Safe Communities partnered with Malone University to bring Chris Skinner to Stark County where he spoke to students at Hoover High School and Malone University. Chris talks about his experience involving a drinking and driving decision he made while in college and how that decision changed his life forever. He made an important impact on all who heard him speak. HEALTHY KIDS DAY AT NORTH CANTON YMCA - April 18, 2009 Stark County Safe Communities participated in Healthy Kids Day at the North Canton YMCA, reaching over 600 people with our traffic safety message, educational materials and prize drawings. With the many activities going on it was a fun and informative day for all! SERVER TRAINING - April 17, 2009 As a result of a partnership with Esber Beverage, Stark County Sheriff’s Office, Anti-Drug Coalition, Safe Communities was able to assist in offering free server training to all establishments who serve and sell alcohol. Our first class filled up in just a couple of days and a second class (May 8, 2009) was scheduled and filled up right away also. We will be offering this class on a regular basis to educate our servers on proper and legal serving practices. Our servers can be a very effective partner in our fight against impaired driving as they serve as our first line of defense. HEALTHY KIDS DAY AT LOUISVILLE YMCA - April 6, 2009 Stark County Safe Communities participated in Healthy Kids Day at the Louisville YMCA, reaching the residents with our traffic safety message and educational materials. With the many activities going on it was a fun and informative day for all! Walsh University Health Fair - January 15, 2009 Stark County Safety Communities partnered with the Stark County Anti-Drug and Alcohol Coalition and the Stark County Health Department's Tobacco Prevention Coalition at the Walsh University Health Fair.  We handed out educational materials, talked with students and staff utilizing the fatal vision goggles in an activity to stress the importance of driving sober.  Videos were also played that contained messages on impaired driving, speed, road rage, distracted driving and seatbelt use. Trunk or Treat - October 31, 2008 In an effort to provide a safe alternative to trick or treat night, Safe Communities participated in Trunk or Treat at the Massillon Recreation Center.  Local groups and businesses decorated their vehicles and passed out treats to children in the parking lot of the Recreation Center.  Safe Communities partnered with the Stark County Sheriff's Office to pass out candy, prizes, and educational materials to children.  It was a beautiful night, a fun evening and a great way to promote safety on Halloween
Stark State Health and Wellness Fair _ October 29, 2008 Safe Communities set up a display and participated at the Health and Wellness Fair at Stark State College.  Educational materials were distributed on various traffic safety issues.  A power point presentation on the cost of a DUI and videos on impaired driving, aggressive driving, and distracted driving was presented.  Bar Exams and Street Smart Quizzes were distributed to the public in an effort to educate on safe driving practices.
Free Car Seat Inspection - October 11 Stark County Safe Communities partnered with Stark County Sheriff's Office and Stark County Safe Kids Coalition to hold a car seat inspection at the Stark County Sheriff's Office.  Thirteen child safety seats were checked and correctly installed, while teaching parents how to choose the correct seat for their child and how to install it correctly.  Children not only benefited from having a safe ride, but received a stuffed animal, seatbelt story book, and an activity book.  Parents were provided with educational materials and efforts were made that no vehicle left without a safe method to transport the children in the vehicle. Car Seat Inspection flyer (pdf format)
Put the Brakes on Fatalities Day - October 10, 2008 Stark County Safe Communities joined local law enforcement agencies, civic groups, and government organizations in a national effort to observe " Put the Brakes on fatalities Day".  Approximately 118 people die each day on our nation's roadways.  These people are not just statistics, but someone's family, friend, or loved one.  On October 10, 2008 we helped to encourage all citizens of Stark County to think each time they get into a vehicle and to make smart decisions before they enter the roadways.  Flyers were distributed through out the county, articles sent to the local newspapers, and Proclamations were issued by the Mayors of Alliance, Canton, and Massillon in support of "Put the Brakes on Fatalities Day.  We want to thank all who participated in making October 10, 2008 a safer day on Stark County's roadways.  If we all work together and think about the decisions we make when we get into a vehicle and the consequences of those decisions we can make Stark County a real "Safe Community"
Walk This Way - Warstler School - Plain Township - October 8, 2008 Safe Communities attended the “Walk This Way” Day at Warstler School for a student safety day.  Among the groups represented were Stark County Sheriff’s Office, Stark County Safe Kids, Affinity Medical Center, Mercy Medical, Aultman Hospital, Fed-Ex, Safe Communities, and the Plain Township Fire Department.  Students received a free safety light upon entering the school and went to different safety stations during the day learning about many different issues such as pedestrian and traffic safety, law enforcement, fire safety, exercise, anger management, and tobacco use.  They also received a bag containing educational materials, coloring books, pencils, stickers, zipper pulls, and many other items.  We spoke to approximately 350 students, along with staff members and parents.  It was a very successful and informative event.
Child Safety Seat Check - Spitzers - September 27, 2008 During CPS week, Safe Communities partnered with the Safe Kids Coalition and participated in a child safety seat inspection at Spitzer’s in North Canton.  Approximately 40 child safety seats were checked and the parents educated on the proper restraint usage for their children and their family.  Car seat safety materials were made available to the public, as well as flyers on the up-coming “Put the Brakes on Fatalities Day” event.
Malone University Health Fair - September 23, 2008 Safe Communities attended the Health and Safety Fair at Malone University and set up display concerning traffic safety issues, especially how they pertain to women.  We distributed key-chain flashlights to the public, along with other educational materials.
Louisville Constitutional Days - September 14, 2008 A display of traffic safety materials was set up at Metzger Park in Louisville during their Constitutional Days Festival.  Free drawings were held for bike helmets and other items and educational materials were distributed.  Children received coloring books and activity sheets on traffic safety issues, along with being fingerprinted for safety by the Stark County Sheriff’s Office.  Materials on traffic safety were made available to parents and other adults and traffic safety issues were discussed with the public.
Prevention in the Park September 6, 2008 Stark County Safe Communities joined many other organizations at the Prevention in the Park event at Waterworks Park in Canton.  Besides distributing educational materials and candy with a safety message attached, Safe Communities held a free drawing every 30 minutes for prizes donated by local organizations and businesses.  Many activities including child-fingerprinting face painting, games, and crafts made this a fun day for all who attended.
Stark County Fair - August 26 - September 1. 2008 Safe Communities joined the Stark County Sheriff’s Office at their fair booth to meet and greet the citizens of Stark County and share with them materials on safety.  Volunteers were on hand to answer questions and distribute educational materials on many different safety issues covering all types of traffic safety.  The Stark County Safe Communities PowerPoint Presentation was played at the booth through the entire week of the fair.  This presentation not only creates public awareness for Safe Communities and its goals, but also had many interesting facts and figures to share with the public.
Jackson Community Health Fair - August 23. 2008 Safe Communities participated in the Health Fair at Jackson High School by setting up a display with information on important issues such as child safety seats, seatbelt usage, impaired driving, and other traffic safety issues. The event included many community groups and businesses from the area .  The community was able to enjoy many different safety and health oriented booths and displays, as well as participating in several fun activities.
Quaker Steak Bike Nights 2008 - 5/21, 6/11, 7/23 & 8/13 Safe Communities has participated in 4 bike nights at Quaker Steak & Lube Restaurant this year in an effort to promote motorcycle safety. We have focused on concerns such as proper training, safety gear, impaired driving, and motor vehicle drivers’ responsibility to share the road with motorcyclists. We have given away 12 Motorcycle Ohio Training Courses in a free raffle and had trainers from Motorcycle Ohio on hand to answer questions regarding training. Motorcycle Ohio also donated reflective stickers and motorcycle kick-stand plates with a safety message for Safe Communities to distribute. Freedom Harley Davidson provided us with a display of safety gear and a representative to answer questions regarding the proper gear to wear while riding. Freedom Harley also donated a motorcycle helmet to Safe Communities, which we raffled off to raise money for programming and events. We have distributed many types of educational materials and spoke to many people regarding motorcycle safety. The Fatal Vision goggles were utilized with a corn hole game and other activities to educate the public and to deter impaired riding. Many people come out for bike nights (there have been over 1500 bikes at a bike night) and this is a fun way to meet people and help to educate the public on the importance of “Riding Smart”
Red Ribbon Car Show - Loudon Motors - August 10. 2008 Safe Communities set up a booth and a display to participate in the annual Red Ribbon Car Show at Loudon Motors. In addition to talking to the public and passing out educational materials on traffic safety, we had free drawings every ½ hour for bicycle helmets (donated by Safe Kids) and stuffed animals with a safety message attached and 2008 Seatbelt Challenge travel mugs (donated by the Stark County Sheriff’s Office). The public also enjoyed many door prizes, face painting, free food, and a chance to drive SIDNE, an impaired driving simulator. It was a fun and educational day for everyone!
Canal Fulton / Lawrence Township Safety Fair - August 9. 2008 Safe Communities was invited to join in the fun at the Canal Fulton/Lawrence Township Safety Fair. We set up a display and passed out educational materials and gave away candy with a seatbelt message attached. Bicycle helmets and prizes were also given away in a free drawing. The Fatal Vision goggles were used with “Walk the Line” activity. Many other safety groups and organizations were on hand to meet the public and a free lunch was provided to all who came. Safety vehicles, Life Flight, and the Smoke House were on hand making it a fun and informative day for all who participated.
Downtown Massillon Fun Fest - August 9. 2008 Safe Communities teamed up with the Stark County Sheriff’s Office to attend this fun event. While the Stark County Sheriff’s Office fingerprinted the children for safety, members of the Safe Communities Coalition passed out activity books, coloring books, and story books, all relating to safety for children.
	Pro Football hall of Fame Enshrinement Community Parade - July 27. 2008 Members of the Stark County Safe Communities Coalition marched and carried banners in the parade, along with two Crash Dummies. Our thanks to the Perry Explorers who wore the costumes on such a warm day and for being such good sports about it. They were a big hit with the parade spectators. This event was televised so it provided us the opportunity to get our safety message out to a large number of people in a short amount of time.
Jackson Township Balloon Classic - July 25-26. 2008 Safe Communities joined with the Jackson Township Safety Forces at the Jackson Township Balloon Fest for an action packed weekend. Two popcorn machines ran non-stop to hand out free popcorn to all who wanted it. Prizes provided by Safe Kids, Jackson Township Police Department and the Stark County Sheriff’s Office were given away every ½ hour in a free drawing. Fatal Vision goggles and a corn hole game were used to educate the public on the reasons not to drive impaired (or not to ride with an impaired driver). Educational materials were provided and traffic safety issues were discussed with numerous citizens.
Walsh University Alumni Family Fun Day - July 20, 2008 Safe Communities and Safe Kids paired up to work at the Walsh Alumni Family Day. Educational materials, including free candy with a safety message, were provided at our booth. The Fatal Vision Goggles were used to demonstrate the dangers of driving impaired. Other activities that were present were pony rides, live radio broadcast, Akron Zoo, arts & craft table, Comp U Kid, sand boxes, magic show, balloon animals, inflatable, and many more activities. Everyone had a great day!
Stark State Open House - March 29, 2009 We have attended two open houses at Stark State College so far. Stark State is a commuter college so this is an important avenue to provide our message. We greet all the prospective students and their families as they enter and give them a bag with a safety message on it and safety educational materials in it to use to collect any paperwork they get that day. We also set up a table and display to provide additional materials to the public. This event affords us the opportunity of speaking to the students and their parents at the same time, helping to promote conversations on traffic safety between the student and parent.
	Richville - Perry Township Festival - June 25-28, 2008 Safe Communities partnered with Perry Police Department at the Richville Festival. At our booth we had a display and educational materials for the public. Free popcorn was given away for a promise to always wear a seatbelt when riding in a car. Chief Escola and members of Safe Communities used the Fatal Vision Goggles and a corn hole game to educate the public on the dangers of driving impaired. This event provided the chance for interaction with many members of the community in a way that was both fun and educational.
Jackson Township Community Festival - June 18-21,, 2008 Our coalition partnered with the Jackson Township Safety Forces in their booth at the Jackson Township Festival. We set up a display with educational materials that were available to the public. The Fatal Vision goggles were used with a corn hole game and a “Walk the Line” activity, which gave us the opportunity to speak to many citizens about traffic safety issues.
RTI Alloys Health Fair - June, 2008 Safe Communities attended the Health Fair at RTI Alloys and spoke to the employees regarding traffic safety. A Power Point presentation on the cost f a DUI was played, along with using the Fatal Vision Goggles with a “Walk the Line” activity. Educational materials were provided to the employees, along with candy with a safety message attached.
	Stark County Parks Car Show - June 8, 2008 Safe Communities set up a display and handed out educational materials at the Stark County Parks Car Show in Perry Township. The Fatal Vision Goggles were utilized with a corn hole game to educate the public on the dangers of driving impaired.
Freedom Harley Davidson Family Fun Day - June 7, 2008 2008 Safe Communities set up a display and table of educational materials at the Freedom Harley Family Fun Day to help promote motorcycle safety. Kickstand plates with an educational message and reflective stickers with a message were distributed to the bikers. The Fatal Vision Goggles were used to promote safe riding practices and to deter impaired riding. Motorcycle safety issues such as training and safety gear were also discussed with the public. Activity sheets on bicycle safety were provided to the children attending. Prizes with a safety message were also given to people playing the corn hole game.
Seat Belt Challenge - May 17, 2008 Local high school football teams, cheerleading squads, and adult teams competing in an obstacle course for prizes and a trophy. Please see Seat Belt Challenge link on home page for details.
Safe Kids Day - May 3, 2008 Safe Communities set up a booth at Safe Kids Day at Canton South High School. While there we spoke to parents about the proper restraint system for the members in their family, weighed and measured children to help determine the proper type of seat for them, and handed out educational materials to the families. The event was planned by Safe Kids Coalition and was attended by numerous community and safety oriented groups, all with different activities for the families.
Chick-Fil-A Event April 30, 2008 Safe Communities hosted a fundraiser and passed out Prom and Graduation Safety materials at Chick-Fil-A. We raised $260.00 for upcoming programs and events while educating the public on traffic safety issues. A message regarding teen driving safety was placed on all the tables in the restaurant and a free drawing was held for 4 movie passes that were donated by Movies Ten in Jackson Township.
Prom Safety Events - April 2008 Safe Communities partnered with Stark County Sheriff’s Office, Mental Health & Recovery Services, Plain Township Fire Department, Aultman Hospital, and Glen Oak High School to set up displays in the Glen Oak High School cafeteria during lunch hours every Friday in the month of April. Different issues were addressed each week, such as legal and financial consequences of drinking and driving and the physical and medical consequences of drinking and driving. An assembly was held on April 18, 2008 in which a member of the Stark County Sheriff’s Office described what happens when you are stopped for driving impaired, a member of the Fire Department talked about what happens at the scene of a crash, and a teen who was driving the vehicle in which his best friend was killed spoke to the students. The students of Glen Oak also did a Grim Reaper presentation. On April 23, 2008 an assembly was held at Canton South High School in which a Power Point Presentation on the cost of a DUI was presented, along with a talk from a Stark County Sheriff’s Office Deputy as to what happens at a DUI stop. A teenager who was driving the vehicle in which his best friend died also spoke at Canton South High School on the consequences of making a bad decision and how your whole life can change in a moment. Posters and a display board were given to the school, along with materials on teen drinking and driving to be sent to the parents in a school mailing.
Click It or Ticket Campaign May 12 - 26, 2008 In addition to the Seat Belt Challenge, which is our annual kick-off event for the Click It or Ticket Campaign, Safe Communities supported the campaign in many other ways. Sample morning announcements on the Click It or Ticket Campaign were sent to the superintendents of all local schools to be read over the in school public address system, seatbelt cards were supplied to local auto dealers to be placed in all vehicles purchased during the campaign, activity sheets for children that promoted seatbelt use were distributed to local libraries, Click It or Ticket magnets were provided to county agencies to be placed on county and employee vehicles, Buckle-Up signs were provided to local businesses to be placed at the exits of their parking lots. A letter to the editor was published in two local newspapers and a media release regarding the campaign was sent to 35 local media agencies.
Over the Limit, Under Arrest Campaign - August 15 - September 1, 2008 The kick-off event for the Over the Limit Campaign was held at Quaker Steak and Lube Bike Night on August 13, 2008. In addition to the kick-off event, Safe Communities distributed banners to be placed at strategic locations throughout the county, lighted messages boards were utilized to promote the campaign, bottle tags were distributed to local drive-thrus and carry-outs, table tents were distributed to local bars and restaurants, posters were given to any interested agencies and businesses, educational materials were distributed at a local checkpoint event, and the message was promoted at all events attended by Safe Communities during the campaign. Letters to the editor were sent to local papers and were printed and a media release was sent to 35 local media agencies.

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