Members from MADD Prince Albert get set to cut the cake to launch the 37th annual Project Red Ribbon. (Logan Lehmann/paNOW)

By Logan Lehmann

Raising awareness

MADD Prince Albert launches 37th annual Project Red Ribbon

Nov 16, 2024 | 6:12 PM

Prince Albert’s Chapter of Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) gathered on Saturday to launch the 37th annual Project Red Ribbon to promote safe driving during the holidays.

Members of MADD Prince Albert were joined by a few local dignitaries during the launch at Beau Lac Funeral Home, including MLA Alana Ross, Ward 7 councillor Dawn Kilmer, and outgoing Ward 5 councillor Dennis Ogrodnick.

MADD Prince Albert director Karen Anthony-Burns said this was the first time they’ve held a proper launch for Project Red Ribbon.

“It’s very fitting to do this this year because with it being the 37th year, we’re still seeing impaired driving tragedies on the roads. Sometimes we think that the work [to spread the word] isn’t necessary, but it still is. It’s very important to continue to bring the message, to not drive impaired, [and] to make that plan for a safe ride home.”

To help spread the message of safe holiday driving, Anthony-Burns said that boxes of red ribbons will be placed around various businesses in Prince Albert, serving as a reminder to choose a safe ride home.

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“We’re asking everyone to support us by picking up a red ribbon [and] making a donation. You can tie that red ribbon to your car and let everyone know that you support not driving impaired and that you’re making that commitment.”

Ribbon boxes will be placed at Beau Lac Funeral Home and in Lake Country Co-op stores, with more businesses expected to take part in the initiative.

Boxes like this one will be visible during November, December, and early January at a number of businesses across the province. (File photo/paNOW)

During a short speech, MLA Ross shared some stats regarding impaired driving, calling it the number one killer on Saskatchewan roadways.

“Although our province has made significant progress over the last decade, impaired driving remains the top cause of fatal collisions on our roads. Each year, hundreds of Canadians lose their lives and thousands are injured because of impaired driving. The crashes and tragic deaths caused are 100% preventable.”

Speaking at his last official event as a member of City Council, Councillor Ogrodnick echoed Ross and said the Project not only highlights a serious issue in Saskatchewan but also does a great job at highlighting the consequences of driving impaired.

In addition to ribbons being available in person at various businesses, red ribbons and car decals from MADD Prince Albert are also available by contacting maddprincealbert@gmail.com.

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loganc.lehmann@pattisonmedia.com