(Watertown, NY – March 27, 2013) The Watertown Urban Mission’s Bridge Program will host its Spring STOP DWI Victims’ Impact Panel at 8:30 a.m. on Saturday, April 6 in the Mission’s Community Room at 247 Factory St.
“This panel helps to put a human face on the tragedies that are a very real consequence of driving while intoxicated,” said Erika Flint, executive director. “Through this panel, these families have taken their tragedy and turned it into a positive, using their testimony to prevent future tragedies. It has also helped them heal through the bonds they have made with each other.”
This event is open to the public and all are encouraged to attend, especially young drivers, individuals facing charges for DWI, and anyone struggling with alcohol or drug dependency.
The April 6 Panel features an expanded lineup of speakers, including seven families who lost loved ones to DWI-related vehicle accidents, a statement from a woman currently serving time for killing someone in a DWI-related crash, Jefferson County Judge Kim Martusewicz, District Attorney Cindy Intschert, and Bridge Program Director Sal Ciulo.
“DWI is something that is easily avoided and has a real cost,” Sal said. “This panel is intended to show people who might think driving drunk is no big deal that no matter if you’re buzzed or falling over drunk, you put yourself at risk and others. These families are suffering because someone they loved was killed by an irresponsible choice, and we want to help everyone make the responsible choice to never get behind the wheel of a motor vehicle if they’ve been drinking alcohol.”
The extended panel will be recorded by WPBS-TV with the intent of airing a broadcast on WPBS. A DVD of that broadcast will also be made available also to show in schools, to organizations, and reach as many people as possible to help reinforce its message about the risks of driving while intoxicated.
The event is free of charge and light refreshments will be available. Donations to support the Bridge Program and the panels will be accepted.