Safety is the gift we give each other this season
As families gather for the holiday season, safety takes center stage on Washington’s roads, highlighting the importance of driving sober, staying alert, and protecting every traveler as people prepare to celebrate this season. In 2024, Washington recorded 823 traffic fatalities, a continuation of the troubling upward trend seen in recent years. These numbers reinforce the critical importance of prevention, enforcement, and community partnership in reducing serious crashes.
The annual Night of 1000 Stars Awards Ceremony will be held Friday, December 12, recognizing law enforcement officers, community leaders, and organizations that have demonstrated exceptional commitment to traffic safety in Region 6.
This year’s honorees include Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) for their steadfast advocacy to end impaired driving, and city of Vancouver Mayor Anne McEnerny-Ogle, recognized for her leadership and commitment to safer streets for all and traffic safety work across Vancouver.
“The officers and community members we honor tonight light the path toward our shared goal of Target Zero,” said Jesamie Peters, Target Zero manager. “Their dedication strengthens our communities and helps keep more families safe during the holidays and beyond.”
Following the ceremony, law enforcement will head out on enhanced DUI enforcement patrols throughout Clark County.
About Target Zero
Target Zero is Washington state’s strategic traffic safety plan, dedicated to eliminating traffic deaths and serious injuries by 2030. Through strong partnerships with law enforcement, community organizations, agencies, and residents, Target Zero works to create safer roads and support a culture of responsible, safe driving for all.
For information on how to get involved or for media inquiries, contact Jesamie Peters at TZMJesamie@outlook.com or (503) 341-8896.
Make a difference in our community
• Plan a safe and sober ride home before celebrating.
• Intervene if you can do so safely to prevent someone from driving impaired.
• Volunteer as a sober designated driver for friends or family.
• Hosts: ensure guests have safe transportation or a place to stay.
• Report impaired drivers by calling 9-1-1.
• Always wear your seat belt, every trip, every time.
Also read:
- Woodland School District secures $600,000 grant for essential repairs
Woodland School District received a $600,000 state Urgent Repair Grant to fund fire alarm upgrades at Woodland Middle School and roof repairs at Columbia Elementary. - Clark County launches new equitable park access programs in 2026, including free-parking days
Clark County is introducing new park access programs in 2026 that include free parking days and a library-based parking pass checkout option. - Additional measles exposure site identified in Ridgefield
Clark County Public Health identified an additional measles exposure location in Ridgefield involving a medical clinic visit while a confirmed case was contagious. - The Study of Sports Podcast Jan. 31, 2026: We discuss how the 2A GSHL football is about to change in a major way, plus some Seahawks talk, too
The Jan. 31 episode of the Study of Sports Podcast covers major upcoming changes to 2A GSHL football, local high school sports updates, and discussion of the Seattle Seahawks. - Fort Vancouver athletics improving under partnership with Trico League
Fort Vancouver High School athletics are showing measurable gains in competition and participation during the second year of a partnership competing in the Class 1A Trico League. - Opinion: Inviting courts into health care policy discussion
Elizabeth New (Hovde) warns that Senate Joint Resolution 8206 could invite lawsuits by placing vague health care mandates into Washington’s Constitution. - Opinion: 24 States In. Washington Out? $732 Million Lost?
Vicki Murray argues Washington risks forfeiting $732 million in federal education funding if state leaders do not opt into the federal tax-credit scholarship program.
