Page 5: Community

OHSP launches new driver safety program for teens

COLUMBUS—Ohio State Highway Patrol Colonel Richard S. Fambro joined Ohio Traffic Safety Office Director Felice Moretti on Wednesday to announce the launch of a new educational program for youth and encourage parents to discuss the importance of driving safety with their young drivers. And National Teen Driver Safety Week was Oct. 17-23, which became the perfect opportunity to talk with teens about safe driving habits. But ultimately, the parents are in control.

“We want everyone on our roadways to make it home safely,” said Ohio Governor Mike DeWine. “Parents can play a vital role by ensuring young drivers are equipped with the skills and knowledge they need to make good driving decisions.”

Since 2016, there have been 460 people killed on Ohio’s roadways in crashes involving a teen passenger vehicle driver (15-18 years old); 178 of the deaths were the teen driver. Motor vehicle crashes are a leading cause of death for teens in the United States. Nationally, in 2019, an estimated 92,000 teen drivers were injured in motor vehicle traffic crashes, and an estimated 264,000 people were injured in crashes involving a teen driver, accounting for almost 10% of all those injured that year.

“The loss of even one life on our roadways is too many,” said Colonel Fambro, superintendent of the Patrol. “By avoiding dangers like driving distracted or impaired, obeying all traffic laws and speed limits, and ensuring everyone is buckled up, we can all make Ohio’s roadways safer.”

DRIVE to Live is a new educational program launched by the Patrol to positively impact youth and engage in conversations about good decision-making. It is geared toward meeting teens where they are and listening with a shared interest in their future. The success of the program will result in impacting Ohio’s youth in a positive manner and building relationships between students and those in public safety. To schedule a presentation, call 614-752-2792 or email oshp@dps.ohio.gov.

The Ohio Department of Public Safety’s “Teach your Teen to Drive” website offers parents and caregivers helpful tips and a framework for having discussions with their teen drivers about risky driving behaviors that can lead to fatal consequences.

“Parents play a critical role in teen driver safety in their ability to consistently communicate important driving safety information,” said Moretti. “New teen drivers are still gaining experience behind the wheel, which increases the chance of dangerous situations for the teen and others around them.”

Harrison Central Elementary holds Bus Safety Week

Harrison News- Herald Photo/DRAKE WATSON

Resource officer Deputy Brooks explains the importance of bus safety to sixth-grade students at Harrison Central Elementary during Bus Safety Week that took place on Oct. 18 and 19.

Jefferson County Joint Vocational School names Homecoming Court

The Jefferson County Joint Vocational School announced its 2021 Fall Homecoming Court and will crown its royalty during the Harvest Moon dance this Saturday in the school commons area. Candidates who select a differently hued flower will be named king and queen during the event. Pictured are (front from left) queen candidates Sam Price of Indian Creek High School, Jessica Nelson of Harrison Central, Abigail Cronin of Toronto, Mia Gabrielli of Steubenville, and Alazia Hayman of Buckeye Local. Standing (from left) are king candidates Gabe Hurdle of Edison, Hunter Strosnider of Catholic Central, Garett Rawson of Indian Creek, and Charles Bowman of Steubenville. Micaila McMillion of Edison, Colin Lucas of Buckeye Local, Charles Ash of Harrison Central, and Carl Cronin of Toronto are not pictured.

Band, cheer, and football honored on Senior Night

Senior football players and cheerleaders were honored at the Harrison Central vs. Indian Creek football game on Friday. Seniors include J.T. Wagner, Jonathan Vermillion, Daniel Thornton, Alexys Reynolds, Matthew Smith, Trevor Carman, Nathan Bertolino, and Riley Kubic. Harrison News-Herald Photos/SHARON DALTON

Senior band members were also recognized at Friday’s Harrison Central- Indian Creek game. Seniors include Devan Woods, Josh Donahue, Abigal Creamer, Mack Marshall, and Todd Stringer.

Harrison Community Hospital reunion held at Sally Buffalo

The first Harrison Community Hospital reunion was held Sunday, Oct. 10 at the Sally Buffalo barn. There were 50 in attendance representing nearly every department of the hospital. Dr. Ajit Modi shared some special memories of his 45 years as an ER doctor and private practice doctor. Jo Ann Guthrie, who spearheaded the event, is one of its first employees. Joyce Ferns, who managed the volunteer services, shared memories of the devoted and committed volunteers who provided numerous hours of service. The food was amazing, and the fellowship was so good. What an amazing group of healthcare workers.

Ajit Modi, MD., presides over the recent hospital reunion.

JoAnn Guthrie (left) and Joyce Ferns participate.