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:
- School bus involved in crash in Vancouver on Friday
A Pontiac G8 collided with an elementary school bus at NE 99th and NE 23rd Ave, but no children or drivers required hospitalization, according to officials. - Crown Point Country Museum Grand Opening set for Sat., March 21
Visitors to Corbett’s new Crown Point Country Museum can explore the region’s early settlements, Wasco Nation heritage, art by Charles W. Post, and unique geological collections. - Opinion: Two ways to keep right
Doug Dahl explains how Washington drivers must “keep right” differently depending on whether traffic flows in one direction or both, plus the exceptions that apply to two-way turn lanes. - Reps. Peter Abbarno and Ed Orcutt: Supplemental capital budget includes key investments for the 20th District
Projects in the 20th District will benefit from millions in state funds, with local schools, community centers, and infrastructure improvements highlighted by Reps. Abbarno and Orcutt. - Opinion: A troubling end to a disruptive session
Let’s Go Washington highlights multiple instances where legislative leaders dismissed historic public feedback, advanced controversial tax policies, and undermined constituent influence. - Single-vehicle crash investigated on 72nd Avenue
Deputies say a northbound pickup struck a guardrail and became stuck atop a Jersey barrier, blocking several blocks of NE 72nd Avenue while emergency crews extricated the driver. - Opinion: Washington state is blowing up its no-income-tax advantage
Lawmakers advanced SB 6346 with an emergency clause, aiming to end Washington’s no-income-tax reputation and prevent voters from seeking a referendum.
