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PLEDGERS PROMISE TO DRIVE SOBER AND BUCKLE SEATBELTS

By Erin France/OF THE COMMERCIAL STAFF
Friday, October 2, 2009 12:33 AM CDT

Marti Mardis called to people trying to slip unnoticed into the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff’s Golden Lion Stadium for the Thursday home game against Alcorn State University.

Marti Mardis, junior and member of the Sigma Gamma Rho sorority, and Phylicia Bolton, junior and member of the Delta Sigma Theta sorority, encourage others to sign a pledge to drive sober and wear a seatbelt Thursday outside the Golden Lions Stadium. Pine Bluff Commercial/Erin France

“Come sign up for safety,” she said, spotting a new face. “You don’t have to sign away your life.”

Mardis, a junior and member of the Sigma Gamma Rho sorority, said she volunteered before the big game to encourage responsible driving habits.

She sat with representatives from all of UAPB’s Greek organizations outside the stadium.

“My mom said you have to set an example,” Mardis said.

Ann Whitehead, the safety program manager for the Arkansas State Police Highway Safety Office, said participation in the program involved local businesses, students, UAPB and city officials.

“This is a community involved event,” she said. “This whole idea is to keep the fans safe on the road this weekend and all of the time.”

Each person who signed a pledge, promised to drive sober and wear his or her seatbelt.

A drawing for prizes was held at each quarter, Whitehead said. Gifts included an iPod and gift certificates for Wal-Mart, The Pines Mall Subway and Y Not Charlie’s Restaurant.

“The theme is a winning combination,” Whitehead said.

Driving sober and wearing a seatbelt can significantly decrease a driver’s chances of being in an accident, she said.

“It’s something that we really need to be aware of,” said Brittany Williams, a senior in the Alpha Rho chapter of the Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority.

“Buckling up for safety is obvious,” said Traiven Love, a senior in the Beta Theta chapter of the Phi Beta Sigma fraternity. “Plus, it’s $60 a ticket.”

Love said he has offered to be a designated driver for his friends.

“I let them all know,” he said. “I’ll make several trips if necessary.”

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