Congratulation comes with caution

Published 1:41 pm Friday, May 26, 2006

By Staff
Graduation season is already upon us and we would like to congratulate all our area seniors for a job well done.
We would also like to send them a word of caution as they go out to celebrate their achievements.
We understand that when you are young, you feel like you are invincible.
But the truth of the matter is, you are not.
So when you go out to a graduation party, please use some common sense and do not drink and drive.
We would also like for you to make sure your classmates and friends don't drink and drive either.
Seniors, you have your entire life ahead of you. There is much to accomplish and we want you to reach the goals you have set for yourself by keeping a level head during this season of celebration.
If you think you can drink and drive and get away with it - think again.
Michigan, through April 30 of this year, has already had 262 fatal crashes according to statistics provided by the Michigan State Police.
Of those 262 crashes, which is an increase from 237 crashes during the same time period in 2005, 87 were alcohol/drug related.
A total of 289 people have already died in Michigan highways through the end of April. That is an increase of 27 from 2005.
Of the 87 crashes that were alcohol/drug related, 99 people have died. That is an increase of 31 from 2005.
We understand that you have worked hard for four years and now you want to break loose and celebrate.
We believe you have earned that right.
But we also believe that you need to make sure that your celebration doesn't go too far and that it does not end in tragedy.
After all, you are our future.