The new Designated Driver Reward Program was the idea of Officer Ben Murry (Pictured Center Right)

The Nebraska City Police Department, McDonald's, Partners for Otoe County and the Southeast District Health Department are teaming up to reduce impaired driving by initiating a "Designated Driver Rewards Program."    

When Nebraska City Police Officers do routine walk-throughs at local bars and other establishments that sell liquor, they will carry reward cards with them.  Police officers will give the cards to patrons who are alcohol and drug free and give rides home to other customers in order to prevent impaired driving.  The Designated Driver Reward Program is the brainchild of Officer Ben Murry, who was looking for new ways to prevent drinking and driving.  He mentioned is idea to the staff at Partners for Otoe County, who is linking NCPD with resources to operate the program.   

The Nebraska City McDonald's donated the gift cards for the first month of the program and the Southeast District Health Department is providing matching funds for the program in 2011.  Businesses wishing to participate in the Designated Driver Rewards Program can contact Officer Murry at the NCPD or call Laurie at Partners for Otoe County at 873-6343.      

Thanks to the Barr family for providing gift cards for a free meal at McDonald's for the first month of operation!  

The launch of the Designated Driver Rewards Program coincides with the  "You Drink, You Drive, You Lose" selective alcohol enforcement campaign taking place from August 19th through September 5th.  The Nebraska City Police Department, Otoe County Sheriff's Department and Nebraska State Patrol will all be cracking down on impaired driving.  The Nebraska Office of Highway Safety is providing grants for overtime to local law enforcement agencies to help with this effort.   

Citizens can report impaired drivers any time by calling 1-800-525-5555 or *55 from a mobile phone.

Join Us and Learn More About Mentoring

TeamMates Orientation

Tuesday, August 30, 5:00-6:30 pm

TeamMates Office, 917 Wildwood Lane

This is a great way to learn more about the program and have all your questions answered.  Attending the training does not obligate you to become a mentor.  Bring a friend that may also be interested in mentoring.

To get a jump start on the paperwork you can visit: www.teammates.org and click on the "Become a Mentor" button.  To Register for the training or if you have questions, please call Stacie at 402.873.6343

KNOW! To Ease Back-To-School Anxiety

It's a fact! Access, availability and the pressure to drink, smoke and use other drugs continues to increase as students get older. It is also true that as anxiety and stress builds, youth are at greater risk of turning to alcohol, marijuana or other substances as a coping mechanism.

The start of a new school year can stir up a mix of emotions. While children may look forward to the increased independence a higher grade level brings, they may be filled with anxiety at the thought of increased expectations both inside and outside the classroom.

Click here for the full Know! Parent Tip.

Visit HelpThemKnow.com to begin recieving your FREE Know! Parent Tips. 
You are encouraged to share this and other Know! Parent Tips with anyone who may benefit.

Also available as students head back-to-school is the updated Know! Parent Workbook.