Where Are Our Tears? Keep Kids Alive!

Dear Friends in Safety,

People worldwide have been touched by and now mourn the death of Michael Jackson. Some of us remember him as the cute and talented 10 year-old lead singer for the family band from the 1960's. Many remember his music and dancing from the 80's. Still others focus on the ups and downs of recent years as he battled personal, legal, and health challenges.

There are many tears, along with memorials of all sorts cropping up on Facebook pages and in public areas, such as the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Many have been touched and now take time to grieve.


As we focus on the immediacy of grieving the life and death of Michael Jackson, can we take time to ask the question, "Where are our tears for the 102 (on average) children, parents, brothers, sisters, friends, classmates, co-workers - in short, loved ones - who will die today on a roadway somewhere in America?" Who will grieve for them? Who will act in a way to honor the love and life they shared with family, friends, and even strangers?


In the wake of grief comes opportunity - the chance to do something that matters to make our world a better place in the name and memory of those who have died. Keep Kids Alive Drive 25 gives each of us the opportunity to make this difference. KKAD25 is the only organization of its kind in the U.S. - and possibly the world - that works to educate and engage residents of each and every community to do what is in their power to do to make a positive difference on our roadways, in our neighborhoods, and through our schools, civic institutions, and businesses. We provide the direction and resources necessary to mobilize to create safer neighborhood environments for the benefit of us all - pedestrians, cyclist, motorists, passengers, parents. We work in cooperation with law enforcement, city government, neighborhood organizations, public works, schools, and businesses; in short, everyone who seeks to make a positive difference in creating safer roadways. Everything you need to get started can be found at www.keepkidsalivedrive25.org/campaign/. Call us for extra help at 402-334-1391 or e-mail kkad25@kkad25.org.

Today is the day to make a difference on behalf of 102 of our fellow human beings who loved and were, and still are, loved.

“Don’t Let the 2 Minutes You ‘Save’
Be the Last 2 Minutes of Someone’s Life.”
Adapted from David Townsend (Tia’s father)

In safety,
Tom Everson
Executive Director
KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® - A “For Action” Organization -501(c) (3)
kkad25@kkad25.org
www.keepkidsalivedrive25.org/

P.S. - Take time to make your tax-deductible donation to support the mission of Keep Kids Alive Drive 25 at KKAD25 Donate. Thanks!

Keep Kids Alive Drive 25® and related logos and slogans (Be Aware! Drive With Care®, Check Your Speed®/No Need To Speed®, Stop! Take 3 To See®, Stop Means Stop®, Seat Belts-FASTENATING!®, and It’s Not A Race! Create Space©) are registered trademarks/copyrights of Keep Kids Alive Drive 25, P.O. Box 45563 Omaha, Nebraska, 68145. No other entities may use these or similar marks without prior permission. Call 402-334-1391 for information.

INVITATION TO MISSISSIPPI CITIES-KEEP KIDS ALIVE!

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful,
committed citizens can change the world.
Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.”
Margaret Mead

Dear Friend in Safety,

This note is an invitation to communities in Mississippi to initiate a KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® campaign. Mississippi is one of two remaining states that have not yet initiated a campaign (Rhode Island is the other). Please forward to those you know who are concerned about neighborhood traffic safety.

Following are ways in which Mississippi communities can act to create safer roadways for the benefit of everyone.

• Be a catalyst for neighborhood/community involvement. All you need to get started is available for free at KKAD25 Start-up.
• Incorporate KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® into your local Safe Routes to School initiative. For more information on Safe Routes in Mississippi, visit MS Safe Routes.
• Invite your local school to help seed the campaign in your community through a KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® SCHOOL FUNDRAISER (Click here)
• Invite your workplace to become a corporate sponsor/partner. Contact 402-334-1391 or Tom@kkad25.org to talk about possibilities.
• Invite your local high school to create a safe-driving culture in their school - and in the community as well. (Click here to learn how)
• Your community can also benefit from on-site support to develop your community neighborhood traffic safety plan. Call 402-334-1391 or e-mail Tom@kkad25.org for information.

May you and all you care for have a safe, peaceful, and relaxing summer.

“Don’t Let the 2 Minutes You ‘Save’
Be the Last 2 Minutes of Someone’s Life.”
Adapted from David Townsend (Tia’s father)

In safety,
Tom Everson
Executive Director - KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® - A “For Action” Organization -501(c) (3)
kkad25@kkad25.org
http://www.keepkidsalivedrive25.org/ – Keep up with the latest at the KKAD25 Blog.

Keep Kids Alive Drive 25® and related logos and slogans (Be Aware! Drive With Care®, Check Your Speed®/No Need To Speed®, Stop! Take 3 To See®, Stop Means Stop®, Seat Belts-FASTENATING!®, and It’s Not A Race! Create Space©) are registered trademarks/copyrights of Keep Kids Alive Drive 25, P.O. Box 45563 Omaha, Nebraska, 68145. No other entities may use these or similar marks without prior permission. Call 402-334-1391 for information.

GENEROUS GEORGIANS - KEEP KIDS ALIVE!

GENEROUS GEORGIANS – MAKING A DIFFERENCE!

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful,
committed citizens can change the world.
Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.”
Margaret Mead

Dear Friend in Safety,

This note is entitled “Generous Georgians” When it comes to KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25®, many generous individuals, neighborhoods, and whole communities are committed to educating and engaging citizens to create safer environments for us all on neighborhood streets, and beyond.

Following are examples of Generous Georgians Committed to Raising Awareness and Keeping Kids Alive:

• The City of Roswell through the leadership of Mike Elliott in their Transportation Dept. initiated the 1st KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® campaign in the State.
• The City of Doraville, through their Mayor’s Office, was the 2nd to initiate a campaign.
• Johns Creek Neighborhoods with the support of Public Works and Police is the latest community to join the effort.
• In Newnan, a HOA initiated a local campaign.

Continue to Spread Generosity in Georgia

We are grateful for support, past and present, throughout Georgia. Much remains to be accomplished. We look forward to continue support growth of our traffic safety initiatives as you act to create safer roadways for the benefit of everyone. Here are some ways that you can help and make your voice heard.

• Invite your workplace to become a corporate sponsor/partner. Contact 402-334-1391 or Tom@kkad25.org to talk about possibilities.
• Be a catalyst for neighborhood/community involvement. All you need to get started is available for free at KKAD25 Start-up.
• Incorporate KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® into your local Safe Routes to School initiative. For more information on Safe Routes in Georgia, visit GA Safe Routes .
• Invite your local school to help seed the campaign in your community through a KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® SCHOOL FUNDRAISER (Click here)
• Invite your local high school to create a safe-driving culture in their school - and in the community as well. (Click here to learn how)
• Your community can also benefit from on-site support to develop your community neighborhood traffic safety plan. Call 402-334-1391 or e-mail Tom@kkad25.org for information.

Thank you for all you do to make your neighborhood and community safer for all of us each day. And may you and all you care for have a safe, peaceful, and relaxing summer.

“Don’t Let the 2 Minutes You ‘Save’
Be the Last 2 Minutes of Someone’s Life.”
Adapted from David Townsend (Tia’s father)

In safety,
Tom Everson
Executive Director = KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® - A “For Action” Organization -501(c) (3)
kkad25@kkad25.org
www.KeepKidsAliveDrive25.org – Keep up with the latest at the KKAD25 Blog.

Keep Kids Alive Drive 25® and related logos and slogans (Be Aware! Drive With Care®, Check Your Speed®/No Need To Speed®, Stop! Take 3 To See®, Stop Means Stop®, Seat Belts-FASTENATING!®, and It’s Not A Race! Create Space©) are registered trademarks/copyrights of Keep Kids Alive Drive 25, P.O. Box 45563 Omaha, Nebraska, 68145. No other entities may use these or similar marks without prior permission. Call 402-334-1391 for information.

AWARE IN ALABAMA - KEEP KIDS ALIVE!

AWARE IN ALABAMA!

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful,
committed citizens can change the world.
Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.”
Margaret Mead

Dear Friend in Safety,

This note is entitled “Aware in Alabama” When it comes to KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25®, opportunities abound for communities to raise awareness and educate and engage citizens to create safer environments for us all on neighborhood streets, and beyond.

Following are examples of Alabama Communities Committed to Raising Awareness and Keeping Kids Alive:

· The City of Homewood with a cooperative effort lead by Public Works and Police initiated the most comprehensive campaign in the State.
· The City of Florence, lead by their Police Dept. was the 1st in Alabama to launch a KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® campaign.
· The City of Madison launched a campaign through the efforts of committed local citizens with the support of City Council and Law Enforcement.
· A neighborhood initiative was launched in Birmingham.

Continue to Help Raise Awareness in Alabama

We are grateful for support, past and present, throughout Alabama. Much remains to be accomplished. We look forward to continue support growth of our traffic safety initiatives as you act to create safer roadways for the benefit of everyone. Here are some ways that you can help and make your voice heard.

• Invite your workplace to become a corporate sponsor/partner. Contact 402-334-1391 or Tom@kkad25.org to talk about possibilities.
• Be a catalyst for neighborhood/community involvement. All you need to get started is available for free at KKAD25 Start-up.
• Incorporate KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® into your local Safe Routes to School initiative. For more information on Safe Routes in Alabama, visit AL Safe Routes.
• Invite your local school to help seed the campaign in your community through a KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® SCHOOL FUNDRAISER (Click here)
• Invite your local high school to create a safe-driving culture in their school - and in the community as well. (Click here to learn how)
• Your community can also benefit from on-site support to develop your community neighborhood traffic safety plan. Call 402-334-1391 or e-mail Tom@kkad25.org for information.

Thank you for all you do to make your neighborhood and community safer for all of us each day. And may you and all you care for have a safe, peaceful, and relaxing summer.

“Don’t Let the 2 Minutes You ‘Save’
Be the Last 2 Minutes of Someone’s Life.”
Adapted from David Townsend (Tia’s father)

In safety,
Tom Everson
Executive Director KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® - A “For Action” Organization -501(c) (3)
kkad25@kkad25.org
www.KeepKidsAliveDrive25.org – Keep up with the latest at the KKAD25 Blog.

Keep Kids Alive Drive 25® and related logos and slogans (Be Aware! Drive With Care®, Check Your Speed®/No Need To Speed®, Stop! Take 3 To See®, Stop Means Stop®, Seat Belts-FASTENATING!®, and It’s Not A Race! Create Space©) are registered trademarks/copyrights of Keep Kids Alive Drive 25, P.O. Box 45563 Omaha, Nebraska, 68145. No other entities may use these or similar marks without prior permission. Call 402-334-1391 for information.

VOCAL VIRGINIANS – MAKING A DIFFERENCE BY KEEPING KIDS ALIVE!

VOCAL VIRGINIANS – MAKING A DIFFERENCE!

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful,

committed citizens can change the world.I

ndeed, it is the only thing that ever has.”

Margaret Mead

Dear Friend in Safety,

This note is entitled “Vocal Virginians – Making a Difference!” When it comes to KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25®, many residents and communities work to make their voices and concerns heard by putting care into action as they educate and engage citizens to create safer environments for us all on neighborhood streets, and beyond.

Following are examples of Virginians Making a Difference:

· Arlington County was the 1st in the country to implement a countywide KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® campaign.

· Cities also participating include Hampton, Charlottesville, Colonial Heights.

· Neighborhood initiatives have emerged in Richmond, Vienna, McLean, Chantilly, and Stafford

Continue to Make Your Voice Heard in Virginia

We are grateful for support, past and present, throughout Virginia. Much remains to be accomplished. We look forward to continue support growth of our traffic safety initiatives as you act to create safer roadways for the benefit of everyone. Here are some ways that you can help and make your voice heard.

• Invite your workplace to become a corporate sponsor/partner. Contact 402-334-1391 or Tom@kkad25.org to talk about possibilities.


• Be a catalyst for neighborhood/community involvement. All you need to get started is available for free at KKAD25 Start-up.


• Incorporate KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® into your local Safe Routes to School initiative. For more information on Safe Routes in Virginia, visit Safe Routes VA.


• Invite your local school to help seed the campaign in your community through a KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® SCHOOL FUNDRAISER (Click here)


• Invite your local high school to create a safe-driving culture in their school - and in the community as well. (Click here to learn how)


• Your community can also benefit from on-site support to develop your community neighborhood traffic safety plan. Call 402-334-1391 or e-mail Tom@kkad25.org for information.

Thank you for all you do to make your neighborhood and community safer for all of us each day. And may you and all you care for have a safe, peaceful, and relaxing summer.

“Don’t Let the 2 Minutes You ‘Save’ Be the Last 2 Minutes of Someone’s Life.”Adapted from David Townsend (Tia’s father)

Maryland - Making a Difference to Keep Kids Alive!

MARYLAND – MAKING A DIFFERENCE!

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful,
committed citizens can change the world.
Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.”
Margaret Mead

Dear Friend in Safety,

This note is entitled “Maryland – Making a Difference!” When it comes to KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25®, communities throughout Maryland work to make a difference by putting care into action as they educate and engage citizens to create safer environments for us all on neighborhood streets, and beyond.

Following are examples of Marylanders Making a Difference:

· The Westminster Police Dept. was the 1st in the country to pass out KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® information cards to help educate drivers stopped for traffic violations.
· Mayor Sheila Dixon of Baltimore was the 1st Mayor in the U.S. to proclaim May 1st as KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25 DAY in 2007. She followed suit in 2008 and 2009 as well.
· The Prince George’s County Police Dept. was the 1st in the U.S. to develop a bi-lingual KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® campaign.
· Terry Ober of the Queen Anne’s County Sheriff’s Dept. was the 1st in the country to integrate KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® initiatives into a Teen Driver Safety Education program – SMARTDRIVE!
· Maryland has the highest number of County participants in KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® initiatives of any State. These include Wicomico, Talbot, Somerset, Howard, Queen Anne, Prince George, Dorchester, and Charles counties.
· Cities also participating include Hagerstown, Frederick, Laurel, Walkersville, and Westminster.

Continuing to Make a Difference in Maryland

As you can see, Maryland is a State that supports KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® by being first in many ways. We look forward to continue support growth of our traffic safety initiatives as you act to create safer roadways for the benefit of everyone. Here are some ways that you can help.

· Invite your workplace to become a corporate sponsor/partner. Contact 402-334-1391 or Tom@kkad25.org to talk about possibilities.
· Be a catalyst for neighborhood/community involvement. All you need to get started is available for free at KKAD25 Start-up.
· Incorporate KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® into your local Safe Routes to School initiative. For more information on Safe Routes in Maryland, e-mail Joseph Pelaiia, your State Coordinator, at jpelaia@sha.state.md.us
· Invite your local school to help seed the campaign in your community through a KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® SCHOOL FUNDRAISER (Click here)
· Invite your local high school to create a safe-driving culture in their school - and in the community as well. (Click here to learn how)
· Your community can also benefit from on-site support to develop your community neighborhood traffic safety plan. Call 402-334-1391 or e-mail Tom@kkad25.org for information.
Thank you for all you do to make your neighborhood and community safer for all of us each day. And may you and all you care for have a safe, peaceful, and relaxing summer.

“Don’t Let the 2 Minutes You ‘Save’
Be the Last 2 Minutes of Someone’s Life.”
Adapted from David Townsend (Tia’s father)

In safety,
Tom Everson
Executive Director - KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® - A “For Action” Organization -501(c) (3)
kkad25@kkad25.org
www.KeepKidsAliveDrive25.org – Keep up with the latest at the KKAD25 Blog.

Keep Kids Alive Drive 25® and related logos and slogans (Be Aware! Drive With Care®, Check Your Speed®/No Need To Speed®, Stop! Take 3 To See®, Stop Means Stop®, Seat Belts-FASTENATING!®, and It’s Not A Race! Create Space©) are registered trademarks/copyrights of Keep Kids Alive Drive 25, P.O. Box 45563 Omaha, Nebraska, 68145. No other entities may use these or similar marks without prior permission. Call 402-334-1391 for information.

Positively Pennsylvania - Keeping Kids Alive!

POSITIVELY PENNSYLVANIA!

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful,
committed citizens can change the world.
Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.”
Margaret Mead

Dear Friend in Safety,

This note is entitled “Positively Pennsylvania.” When it comes to KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25®, many Pennsylvania communities take a positive approach by putting care into action as they educate and engage citizens in making a difference to create safer environments for us all on neighborhood streets, and beyond.

Following are examples of what’s “Positive in Pennsylvania:”

• The City of State College was the first in the State to form a KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25 Task Force representing interests throughout the State College Area (they created KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® of the Centre Region) to develop a communitywide plan for implementing the campaign. Their efforts were recognized in Law and Order Magazine.
• Exeter Township was the first city in the State to take advantage of on-site consultation in development of their communitywide plan of action to seed and grow KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25®. They continue to engage neighborhoods, businesses, and schools in a cooperative effort with law enforcement and other city leaders to make local streets safer. Walk-Bike Berks County has joined local efforts as an advocate for safer streets for the benefit of all by introducing Complete Streets.
• The Chestnut Hill Neighborhood in Philadelphia leads the way in introducing the campaign locally. Check out a testimonial at KKAD25 Testimonials.
• Marple Township, through the leadership of Commissioner Charlie Sammartino, was the first township to engage a health care system - Main Line Heath and the Bryn Mawr Hospital Health Center - as a major sponsor for the local campaign. They have also observed KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® DAY the past two years which is celebrated each May 1st in communities across the U.S.
• AAMCO Transmissions, based in the Philadelphia Area, was the 1st Corporation in the U.S. to underwrite KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® Public Education Messages on radio stations throughout the country. We welcome additional partners. Contact us at kkad25@kkad25.org or 402-334-1391.
• Business partners have included Fisher’s Ace Hardware and Wilson’s True Value Hardware in Lansdale.
• Participants in the campaign also include Moon Township, Lower Swatara Township, Abington, Center Valley, East Fallowfield, Exton, Hershey, and Middletown.

Staying Positive in Pennsylvania!

As you can see, Pennsylvania has positively supported KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® by being first in many ways. We look forward to continue support growth of our traffic safety initiatives as you act to create safer roadways for the benefit of everyone. Here are some ways that you can help.

• Invite your workplace to become a corporate sponsor/partner. Contact 402-334-1391 or Tom@kkad25.org to talk about possibilities.
• Be a catalyst for neighborhood/community involvement. All you need to get started is available for free at KKAD25 Start-up.
• Incorporate KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® into your local Safe Routes to School initiative. For more information on Safe Routes in Pennsylvania, visit PA Safe Routes.
• Invite your local school to help seed the campaign in your community through a KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® SCHOOL FUNDRAISER (Click here)
• Invite your local high school to create a safe-driving culture in their school - and in the community as well. (Click here to learn how)
• Your community can also benefit from on-site support to develop your community neighborhood traffic safety plan. Call 402-334-1391 or e-mail Tom@kkad25.org for information.

Thank you for all you do to make your neighborhood and community safer for all of us each day. And may you and all you care for have a safe, peaceful, and relaxing summer.

“Don’t Let the 2 Minutes You ‘Save’
Be the Last 2 Minutes of Someone’s Life.”
Adapted from David Townsend (Tia’s father)

In safety,
Tom Everson
Executive Director - KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® - A “For Action” Organization -501(c) (3)
kkad25@kkad25.org
http://www.keepkidsalivedrive25.org/ – Keep up with the latest at the KKAD25 Blog.

Keep Kids Alive Drive 25® and related logos and slogans (Be Aware! Drive With Care®, Check Your Speed®/No Need To Speed®, Stop! Take 3 To See®, Stop Means Stop®, Seat Belts-FASTENATING!®, and It’s Not A Race! Create Space©) are registered trademarks/copyrights of Keep Kids Alive Drive 25, P.O. Box 45563 Omaha, Nebraska, 68145. No other entities may use these or similar marks without prior permission. Call 402-334-1391 for information.

ON WISCONSIN! KEEP KIDS ALIVE!

ON WISCONSIN!

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful,
committed citizens can change the world.
Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.”
Margaret Mead

Dear Friend in Safety,

This note is entitled “On Wisconsin,” not simply because John Philip Sousa revered this marching tune as the best college fight song, but because the spirit of leading the way in Wisconsin has been personified in those who have initiated KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® in your communities. Your efforts have made, and continue to make, a difference in keeping us all safer on neighborhood streets, and beyond.

Following are examples of those who move KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® on in Wisconsin:

• The New Berlin Police Department has lead the way for 10 years in seeding and growing the campaign throughout their town. New Berlin was one of the first 4 communities in the U.S. to adopt the campaign.
• Karen Steffan has been a key supporter of the campaign in memory of her daughter, Ashley, who died as a result of being hit, while standing in her driveway waiting for the school bus, by a schoolmate driving a car almost 60 mph down a residential street in Waukesha (posted at 25 mph). Ashley’s death reminds us that speed limits, as well as stop signs, on residential streets must be respected for the good of all – pedestrians (or those innocently standing in a driveway) and motorists alike. We remember that laws are first and foremost about people – observing these laws demonstrates our care for others, as well as for ourselves.
• Additional Wisconsin cities that have initiated KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25 include Appleton, Blanchardville, Muskego, Rochester, and Waterford.

Motivated Towards Marching On in Wisconsin!

We look forward to continue support of growth of our traffic safety initiatives as you act to create safer roadways for the benefit of everyone. Here are some ways that you can help.

• Invite your workplace to become a corporate sponsor/partner. Contact 402-334-1391 or Tom@kkad25.org to talk about possibilities.
• Be a catalyst for neighborhood/community involvement. All you need to get started is available for free at KKAD25 Start-up.
• Incorporate KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® into your local Safe Routes to School initiative. For more information on Safe Routes in Wisconsin, visit WI Safe Routes.
• Invite your local school to help seed the campaign in your community through a KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® SCHOOL FUNDRAISER (Click here)
• Invite your local high school to create a safe-driving culture in their school - and in the community as well. (Click here to learn how)
• Your community can also benefit from on-site support to develop your community neighborhood traffic safety plan. Call 402-334-1391 or e-mail Tom@kkad25.org for information.

Thank you for all you do to make your neighborhood and community safer for all of us each day. And may you and all you care for have a safe, peaceful, and relaxing summer.

“Don’t Let the 2 Minutes You ‘Save’
Be the Last 2 Minutes of Someone’s Life.”
Adapted from David Townsend (Tia’s father)

In safety,
Tom Everson
Executive Director

KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® - A “For Action” Organization -501(c) (3)
kkad25@kkad25.org
www.KeepKidsAliveDrive25.org – Keep up with the latest at the KKAD25 Blog.

Keep Kids Alive Drive 25® and related logos and slogans (Be Aware! Drive With Care®, Check Your Speed®/No Need To Speed®, Stop! Take 3 To See®, Stop Means Stop®, Seat Belts-FASTENATING!®, and It’s Not A Race! Create Space©) are registered trademarks/copyrights of Keep Kids Alive Drive 25, P.O. Box 45563 Omaha, Nebraska, 68145. No other entities may use these or similar marks without prior permission. Call 402-334-1391 for information.

OHIO – OPEN TO OPPORTUNITIES TO KEEP KIDS ALIVE!

OHIO – OPEN TO OPPORTUNITIES!

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful,
committed citizens can change the world.
Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.”
Margaret Mead

Dear Friend in Safety,

This note is about being “Open to Opportunities” The story of the growth of KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® in Ohio is a result of many motivated residents, law enforcement agencies, public works departments, neighborhood/homeowners associations, and businesses that have been open to opportunities to seed, root, and grow the campaign over the past 10 years. Your efforts have made, and continue to make, a difference in keeping us all safer on neighborhood streets, and beyond.

Following are examples of those who have “Opened Opportunities in Ohio!”

• The City of Columbus, through the Health Dept., was the 1st in Ohio (and among the first in the country) to initiate a KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® campaign. They have been growing the campaign since the fall of 1999 as an integral piece in their pedestrian safety efforts.
• The City of Toledo initiated the campaign through the leadership of their City Council, as did the City of Akron.
• Daniel Cole of Toledo spearheaded the building of a memorial to remember children who have died in local traffic incidents. I was privileged to speak at its dedication.
  The Safe Kids Coalition of Summit County was the first in the country to spearhead a countywide initiative.
• Additional communities that have initiated a KEEP KIDS ALIVE campaign include Dayton, Sylvania, Wakeman, Oakwood, Washington Township, Eastlake, Parma, Piqua, Vermilion, Waterville, and Xenia.

Opportunities for Future Action!
We look forward to continue support of growth of our traffic safety initiatives as you act to create safer roadways for the benefit of everyone. Here are some opportunities you can exercise in your community.

• Invite your workplace to become a corporate sponsor/partner. Contact 402-334-1391 or Tom@kkad25.org to talk about possibilities.
• Be a catalyst for neighborhood/community involvement. All you need to get started is available for free at KKAD25 Start-up.
• Incorporate KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® into your local Safe Routes to School initiative. For more information on Safe Routes in Ohio, visit OH Safe Routes .
• Invite your local school to help seed the campaign in your community through a KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® SCHOOL FUNDRAISER (Click here)
• Invite your local high school to create a safe-driving culture in their school - and in the community as well. (Click here to learn how)
• Your community can also benefit from on-site support to develop your community neighborhood traffic safety plan. Call 402-334-1391 or e-mail Tom@kkad25.org for information.

Thank you for all you do to make your neighborhood and community safer for all of us each day. And may you and all you care for have a safe, peaceful, and relaxing summer.

“Don’t Let the 2 Minutes You ‘Save’
Be the Last 2 Minutes of Someone’s Life.”
Adapted from David Townsend (Tia’s father)

In safety,
Tom Everson
Executive Director

KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® - A “For Action” Organization -501(c) (3)
kkad25@kkad25.org
www.KeepKidsAliveDrive25.org – Keep up with the latest at the KKAD25 Blog.

Keep Kids Alive Drive 25® and related logos and slogans (Be Aware! Drive With Care®, Check Your Speed®/No Need To Speed®, Stop! Take 3 To See®, Stop Means Stop®, Seat Belts-FASTENATING!®, and It’s Not A Race! Create Space©) are registered trademarks/copyrights of Keep Kids Alive Drive 25, P.O. Box 45563 Omaha, Nebraska, 68145. No other entities may use these or similar marks without prior permission. Call 402-334-1391 for information.

MOTIVATED IN MISSOURI TO KEEP KIDS ALIVE!

MOTIVATED IN MISSOURI!

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful,
committed citizens can change the world.
Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.”
Margaret Mead

Dear Friend in Safety,

This note is about being “Motivated in Missouri.” The story of the growth of KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® in Missouri is a result of many motivated residents, law enforcement agencies, public works departments, neighborhood/homeowners associations, and businesses that have lead the way over the past 10 years. Your efforts have made, and continue to make, a difference in keeping us all safer on neighborhood streets, and beyond.

Following are examples of those who are “Motivated in Missouri!”

• The City of Hazelwood (Police Dept.) is the first community in the U.S. to enact a “KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25” ordinance making residential streets “double fine” zones for speeding. The City of Wildwood is the 2nd to enact such an ordinance in conjunction with their campaign.
• The City of Florissant (Police Dept.) was the 1st in the State to enact a citywide KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® campaign.
• Vicki and Gordie Faust of Lees Summit have been leading advocates for the campaign in memory of their 9 year-old son, Justin, who died as a result of being hit in November, 2004. Learn more on our "Run to Remember" page.
• Our 1st “Memory Marathon” to remember all children who have died in traffic incidents was the 2007 St. Louis Marathon. Ford Motor Company Fund came on board as our 1st Corporate Sponsor to assist us in our mission.
• The City of Raytown was the 1st to invite the local Hy-Vee Grocery Store to serve as a corporate partner with their campaign. The City of Belton invited their local Hy-Vee to participate as well.
• The South Hampton Neighborhood was the 1st in St. Louis to enact the campaign. They were followed by the St. Louis Hills and the Princeton Neighborhoods.
• St. Peters (City), O’Fallon (City), St. Charles (Neighborhoods), Fenton (Neighborhood), Kirkwood (Neighborhood), Lake St. Louis (Neighborhood/City) have all initiated the campaign over the past several years.

Motivated Towards Future Action!

We look forward to continue support of growth of our traffic safety initiatives as you act to create safer roadways for the benefit of everyone. Here are some ways that you can help.
Invite your workplace to become a corporate sponsor/partner. Contact 402-334-1391 or Tom@kkad25.org to talk about possibilities.

• Be a catalyst for neighborhood/community involvement. All you need to get started is available for free at KKAD25 Start-up.
• Incorporate KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® into your local Safe Routes to School initiative. For more information on Safe Routes in Missouri, visit MO Safe Routes.
• Invite your local school to help seed the campaign in your community through a KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® SCHOOL FUNDRAISER (Click here)
• Invite your local high school to create a safe-driving culture in their school - and in the community as well. (Click here to learn how)
• Your community can also benefit from on-site support to develop your community neighborhood traffic safety plan. Call 402-334-1391 or e-mail Tom@kkad25.org for information.

Thank you for all you do to make your neighborhood and community safer for all of us each day. And may you and all you care for have a safe, peaceful, and relaxing summer.

“Don’t Let the 2 Minutes You ‘Save’
Be the Last 2 Minutes of Someone’s Life.”
Adapted from David Townsend (Tia’s father)

In safety,
Tom Everson
Executive Director
KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® - A “For Action” Organization -501(c) (3)
kkad25@kkad25.org
www.KeepKidsAliveDrive25.org – Keep up with the latest at the KKAD25 Blog.

Keep Kids Alive Drive 25® and related logos and slogans (Be Aware! Drive With Care®, Check Your Speed®/No Need To Speed®, Stop! Take 3 To See®, Stop Means Stop®, Seat Belts-FASTENATING!®, and It’s Not A Race! Create Space©) are registered trademarks/copyrights of Keep Kids Alive Drive 25, P.O. Box 45563 Omaha, Nebraska, 68145. No other entities may use

TALK ABOUT TEXAS! KEEP KIDS ALIVE!

TALK ABOUT TEXAS!

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful,
committed citizens can change the world.
Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.”
Margaret Mead

Dear Friend in Safety,

This note is entitled “Talk About Texas!” The story of the growth of KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® in Texas is a result of the many actions taken by residents, law enforcement, public works, and neighborhood/homeowners associations over the past 10 years. Your efforts have made, and continue to make, a difference in keeping us all safer on neighborhood streets, and beyond.

Let’s take time to “Talk About Texas!”

• Texas is the 1st State to enact legislation influenced by KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25®. House Bill 87 was introduced in 2005 in the wake of the death of Kyle Foster of Mesquite, who died as a result of being hit when crossing the street in front of his home on Halloween, 2003. HB 87, introduced by Representative Elvira Reyna, allows Texas Municipalities to easily lower the speed limit on residential streets from the State mandated 30 mph to 25 mph without having to do extensive engineering studies to justify doing so. It is what might be called “common sense legislation” in that data from Police Reported Accidents (1999-NHTSA) shows that the death rate for pedestrians hit in 30 mph zones is 3X that of pedestrians hit in a 25 mph zone. This reminds us that safe driving and pedestrian habits begin right in our own neighborhood.
• Mesquite hosted the 1st KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® neighborhood traffic forum in Texas in June, 2004 in memory of Kyle Foster.
• The City of Coppell, with cooperation from Public Works, Police, and the City Manager’s Office was the first city to implement KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® in conjunction with lowering their residential limit to 25 mph. Read a testimonial on the effect of the change at KKAD25 Testimonials.
• Ron Kurtin of Georgetown was the first Texan to take on a “Run to Remember” at the 2009 Austin Marathon in memory of children who have died in traffic incidents. Learn how you can get involved at KKAD25 "Run to Remember".
• The Texas Transportation Institute (Texas A&M) was the 1st traffic engineering organization in the country to include a KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® presentation at their annual membership meeting in June, 2006.
• Additional participants in KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® initiatives include Georgetown (Police Dept.), City of Oak Point, Wylie - Seis Lagos Community Services Association, and neighborhoods in Dallas, Houston (Clear Lake), Austin, San Antonio, and Katy.

Future Action!

We exist to support your continued efforts to create safer roadways for the benefit of everyone. Here are some ways that you can engage partners in your community.

• Invite your workplace to become a corporate sponsor/partner. Contact 402-334-1391 or Tom@kkad25.org to talk about possibilities.
• Be a catalyst for neighborhood/community involvement. All you need to get started is available for free at KKAD25 Start-up.
• Incorporate KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® into your local Safe Routes to School initiative. For more information on Safe Routes in Texas, visit Safe Routes TX.
• Invite your local school to help seed the campaign in your community through a KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® SCHOOL FUNDRAISER (Click here)
• Invite your local high school to create a safe-driving culture in their school - and in the community as well. (Click here to learn how)
• Your community can also benefit from on-site support to develop your community neighborhood traffic safety plan. Call 402-334-1391 or e-mail Tom@kkad25.org for information.

Thank you for all you do to make your neighborhood and community safer for all of us each day. And may you and all you care for have a safe, peaceful, and relaxing summer.

“Don’t Let the 2 Minutes You ‘Save’
Be the Last 2 Minutes of Someone’s Life.”
Adapted from David Townsend (Tia’s father)

In safety,
Tom Everson
Executive Director
KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® - A “For Action” Organization -501(c) (3)
kkad25@kkad25.org
http://www.keepkidsalivedrive25.org/ – Keep up with the latest at the KKAD25 Blog.

Keep Kids Alive Drive 25® and related logos and slogans (Be Aware! Drive With Care®, Check Your Speed®/No Need To Speed®, Stop! Take 3 To See®, Stop Means Stop®, Seat Belts-FASTENATING!®, and It’s Not A Race! Create Space©) are registered trademarks/copyrights of Keep Kids Alive Drive 25, P.O. Box 45563 Omaha, Nebraska, 68145. No other entities may use these or similar marks without prior permission. Call 402-334-1391 for information.

NATIVE NEBRASKA! KEEP KIDS ALIVE!

NATIVE NEBRASKA!

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful,
committed citizens can change the world.
Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.”
Margaret Mead

Dear Friend in Safety,

This note is “Native Nebraska!” That is, it highlights the growth of the native born KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® campaign, which was founded on the 12400 block of “C” Street in Omaha in August of 1998.

Since that time, did you know?

• The campaign has grown to encompass over 1000 communities representing 48 states, 2 Canadian Provinces, and the Bahamas.
• That dozens of neighborhoods in Douglas (including Omaha), Sarpy, and Lancaster (Lincoln) counties have initiated the campaign over the years.
• That the Future Business Leaders of America class at Friend High School was the first student-lead effort in the country to seed KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® in their community.
• That the Adams County Health Department in cooperation with the City of Hastings was the first to integrate KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® into their Safe Routes to School initiatives in elementary and middle schools. Learn more about Safe Routes to School at Safe Routes Nebraska.
• That Duteau Chevrolet and Time Warner Communication in Lincoln collaborated to produce the first KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® public awareness message. View this on our web site at Duteau Sponsored version. Let us know if you would like to use this in your community.
• That the Junior Optimists Club for the Norfolk School District was the first to initiate the campaign in their community. They also have been recognized for their efforts with a Safety Award from the Nebraska Department of Roads.
• That Senator Pete Pirsch (and in 2009, Senator Brad Ashford) sponsored a resolution in the Unicam declaring May 1st as KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25 DAY across the State the past 3 years.
• That corporate supporters of the campaign have included UPS-Omaha, Wells Fargo Bank – Omaha, Wheels for You, John Kraft/Gregg Young Chevrolet, Atchley Ford, Duteau Chevrolet, Time Warner Communications, State Farm Insurance – Doug Geyer Agency, Curzon Promotional Graphics, Barco Municipal Products, and Central States Insurance. (We always welcome additional corporate partners – call 402-334-1391 or e-mail Tom@kkad25.org)
• June 7th, the Spring Lake Neighborhood Association in Omaha promoted KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® through their participation in the Omaha Police Department’s Summer Safety Event at the South Campus for Metro Community College.

As we continue to grow here at home, and throughout the country/world, please know that KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® stands ready to support your neighborhood, school, business, faith community, and civic organization in creating safer roadways for the benefit of all who use them – pedestrians, cyclists, drivers, and passengers. As summer arrives, and as your community/neighborhood/school prepares for the next school year, consider how a KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® campaign can work, or continue to build upon past and current efforts, to improve the quality of life on every street in your city. Contact us for direct support at 402-334-1391 or Tom@kkad25.org.

Thank you for all you do to make your neighborhood and community safer for all of us each day. And may you and all you care for have a safe, peaceful, and relaxing summer.

“Don’t Let the 2 Minutes You ‘Save’
Be the Last 2 Minutes of Someone’s Life.”
Adapted from David Townsend (Tia’s father)

In safety,
Tom Everson
Executive Director
KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® - A “For Action” Organization -501(c) (3)
kkad25@kkad25.org
http://www.keepkidsalivedrive25.org/ – Keep up with the latest at the KKAD25 Blog.

Keep Kids Alive Drive 25® and related logos and slogans (Be Aware! Drive With Care®, Check Your Speed®/No Need To Speed®, Stop! Take 3 To See®, Stop Means Stop®, Seat Belts-FASTENATING!®, and It’s Not A Race! Create Space©) are registered trademarks/copyrights of Keep Kids Alive Drive 25, P.O. Box 45563 Omaha, Nebraska, 68145. No other entities may use these or similar marks without prior permission. Call 402-334-1391 for information.

FRIENDS IN FLORIDA! KEEP KIDS ALIVE!

FRIENDS IN FLORIDA!

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful,
committed citizens can change the world.
Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.”
Margaret Mead

Dear Friend in Safety,

This note is about “Friends in Florida.” The story of the growth of KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® is directly tied to the friends we have made who have connected with our campaign during the past several years. Their efforts have made, and continue to make, a difference in keeping us all safer on neighborhood streets, and beyond.

Meet 3 of these friends whose efforts have proven heroic in remembering their children as they have worked to make Florida roadways safer for all of us.

• Sean Martin’s 8 year-old son, Shaye, died as a result of being hit by a speeding drivers while walking to school – on the sidewalk – in May of 2006. Since connecting with KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25®, Sean has worked tirelessly to make roadways safer in the Miami Area, and beyond. His most recent success resulted in the “Shaye Patrick Martin Safety Act” passed by the City of Miami Lakes, which creates gradual “slow zones” as roadways approach school zones. Speeds decline incrementally to create a greater buffer as vehicles near high pedestrian areas around schools. Students from the Project Citizen Class at Miami Lakes Middle School were instrumental in making the “Shaye Patrick Martin Safety Act” a reality. The students, along with Sean, were recognized with a 1st Place Award by the State of Florida for Student-lead Safety Efforts. We offer our thanks and our congratulations for their efforts.
• In addition, Sean connected KKAD25 with the PGA Tour for their tournament at the 2009 World Golf Championships-CA Championship at the Doral Golf Resort. The result was an almost $800.00 donation to support the campaign locally.
• Marie Anderson’s 5 year-old son, Nicolas, died as a result of being hit by a drugged driver on his street the first week kindergarten in August, 2003. Marie’s efforts in the wake of Nicolas’ death established the campaign in her hometown of Ormond Beach and the City of South Daytona Beach. On one occasion, Marie traveled to share Nicolas’ story with a Homeowners Association in Newnan, Georgia, to support their implementation of the campaign (a six-hour drive each way).
• Melissa Tindell, age 13, died in a tragic school bus-stop incident in Panama City in October 2008. Her family, with great support from her Aunt Ange and Uncle Mike, has taken on the campaign to create safer bus-stops to protect all children while waiting or being dropped off. In effect, they invite us to ask the question, “Does a school zone extend beyond the area immediately around a school to include zones where children are picked up and dropped off?” Our answer to this question can make a difference in the actions we take as we approach these zones. Learn more about Melissa at Melissa's Page.
• We are thankful, too, to all of our friends who have helped establish the campaign in Jupiter (Jupiter Police Dept.), Tampa (Police Dept. Crime Prevention), and the City of Sarasota (Engineering Dept.), and for each of you who make a difference in your neighborhood each day.

Friends for the Future

We look forward to continue to build friendships in Florida in support of future growth of our traffic safety initiatives. Here are some ways that you can help.

• Invite your workplace to become a corporate sponsor/partner. Contact 402-334-1391 or Tom@kkad25.org to talk about possibilities.
• Be a catalyst for neighborhood/community involvement. All you need to get started is available for free at KKAD25 Start-up.
• Incorporate KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® into your local Safe Routes to School initiative. For more information on Safe Routes in Florida, visit FL Safe Routes.
• Invite your local school to help seed the campaign in your community through a KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® SCHOOL FUNDRAISER (Click here)
  Invite your local high school to create a safe-driving culture in their school - and in the community as well. (Click here to learn how)
• Your community can also benefit from on-site support to develop your community neighborhood traffic safety plan. Call 402-334-1391 or e-mail Tom@kkad25.org for information.

Thank you for all you do to make your neighborhood and community safer for all of us each day. And may you and all you care for have a safe, peaceful, and relaxing summer.

“Don’t Let the 2 Minutes You ‘Save’
Be the Last 2 Minutes of Someone’s Life.”
Adapted from David Townsend (Tia’s father)

In safety,
Tom Everson
Executive Director

KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® - A “For Action” Organization -501(c) (3)
kkad25@kkad25.org
www.KeepKidsAliveDrive25.org – Keep up with the latest at the KKAD25 Blog.

Keep Kids Alive Drive 25® and related logos and slogans (Be Aware! Drive With Care®, Check Your Speed®/No Need To Speed®, Stop! Take 3 To See®, Stop Means Stop®, Seat Belts-FASTENATING!®, and It’s Not A Race! Create Space©) are registered trademarks/copyrights of Keep Kids Alive Drive 25, P.O. Box 45563 Omaha, Nebraska, 68145. No other entities may use these or similar marks without prior permission. Call 402-334-1391 for information.

CARING COLORADO! KEEP KIDS ALIVE!

CARING COLORADO!

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful,
committed citizens can change the world.
Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.”
Margaret Mead

Dear Friend in Safety,

This note is about “Caring Colorado” When it comes to KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25®, many Colorado communities put care into action by educating and engaging citizens in making a difference to create safer environments for us all on neighborhood streets, and beyond.

Over the past 11 years, here are examples of how caring has happened in Colorado communities:

• The City of Golden was the first to adopt KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® in the summer of 2000. Their National Night Out observance served as a focal point to roll out the campaign to the community. Many communities across the U.S. have followed suit by integrating a campaign kick-off into their National Night Out (the first Tuesday of August).
• The City of Colorado Springs was the first in the country to utilize billboards and radio public service ads as part of their messaging system to launch the campaign.
• Drive Smart Colorado Springs has distributed KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® key chains to new high school drivers to help promote safe driving behaviors. (Perhaps business sponsors in your community would be open to partnering in such an effort in the future. If so, call 402-334-1391 or e-mail Tom@kkad25.org for information.)
• The City of Thornton was the first to host a community forum as they launched their campaign. I was privileged to speak at the event.
• Thornton was also the first city in the country to produce a KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® PSA to air on local public access stations in the Denver Area.
• The Colorado Springs Police Department partnered with King Soopers to make KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® yard signs more easily available to the public.
• The Lafayette Police Dept. followed suit with a similar partnership with their local ACE Hardware store.
• Of course, Colorado is home to the Pike’s Peak Ascent, which family members and I take on annually as a “Run to Remember” in memory of children who have died in traffic incidents across the U.S. My brother Mike, who’s Michael Everson Insurance Agency in Colorado Springs has been a local and national sponsor for the campaign, is one of our team members. Learn more at KKAD25 "Run to Remember"
• Communities also participating in the campaign include Dacono, Johnstown, Fort Lupton, Jamestown, Lyons, and neighborhoods in Highlands Ranch, Boulder, Greenwood Village, Lakewood, Denver, and Durango.

Caring for the Future

We look forward to supporting future growth of our traffic safety initiatives in Colorado. Here are some ways that you can help.

• Invite your workplace to become a corporate sponsor/partner. Contact 402-334-1391 or Tom@kkad25.org to talk about possibilities.
• Be a catalyst for neighborhood/community involvement. All you need to get started is available for free at KKAD25 Start-up.
• Incorporate KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® into your local Safe Routes to School initiative. For more information on Safe Routes in Colorado, visit Colorado Safe Routes.
• Invite your local school to help seed the campaign in your community through a KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® SCHOOL FUNDRAISER (Click here)
• Invite your local high school to create a safe-driving culture in their school - and in the community as well. (Click here to learn how)

Your community can also benefit from on-site support to develop your community neighborhood traffic safety plan. Call 402-334-1391 or e-mail Tom@kkad25.org for information.

Thank you for all you do to make your neighborhood and community safer for all of us each day. And may you and all you care for have a safe, peaceful, and relaxing summer.

“Don’t Let the 2 Minutes You ‘Save’
Be the Last 2 Minutes of Someone’s Life.”
Adapted from David Townsend (Tia’s father)

In safety,
Tom Everson
Executive Director

KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® - A “For Action” Organization -501(c) (3)
kkad25@kkad25.org
www.KeepKidsAliveDrive25.org – Keep up with the latest at the KKAD25 Blog.

Keep Kids Alive Drive 25® and related logos and slogans (Be Aware! Drive With Care®, Check Your Speed®/No Need To Speed®, Stop! Take 3 To See®, Stop Means Stop®, Seat Belts-FASTENATING!®, and It’s Not A Race! Create Space©) are registered trademarks/copyrights of Keep Kids Alive Drive 25, P.O. Box 45563 Omaha, Nebraska, 68145. No other entities may use these or similar marks without prior permission. Call 402-334-1391 for information.

JUST FOR JERSEY! KEEP KIDS ALIVE!

JUST FOR JERSEY!

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful,
committed citizens can change the world.
Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.”
Margaret Mead

Dear Friend in Safety,

This note is “Just for Jersey.” For when it comes to KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25®, New Jersey proves that “one” is not the loneliest number!

Why?

• Because more New Jersey communities have initiated a campaign than any other state. Being number one means that you have plenty of company and support in neighboring towns.
• Speaking of company, New Jersey is the only state to have a KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® corporate sponsor on board to support growth of the campaign – High Point and Teachers Insurance of New Jersey. In fact, High Point/Teachers have sponsored education brochures that can be utilized in New Jersey communities for just the cost of postage - $6.00 per hundred or 12.00 for 200 to 600. Contact us if you would like a pack of 100 or a pack of 1000.
• Ridgewood, in Bergen County, has the most extensive integration of KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25®into their Safe Routes to Schools initiative of any city in the country. Learn more about Safe Routes to School in NJ at NJ Safe Routes.
• NJ has the most successful KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® student-lead project as students in the Criminal Justice and Law program at Colts Neck High School raised almost $15,000.00 to seed the campaign in Monmouth County.
• This summer, I hope to visit once again to support efforts to follow up on the great work of these students (Nicole Lupo, Briana Jackucewicz, Morgan Clark, Tracey Vill, Chelsea Hancock and Courtney Joline) to help initiate the Monmouth County campaign as we head into the new school year. If your community would like to benefit from direct support for your efforts during my next visit, please be in touch at 402-334-1391 or Tom@kkad25.org.

Thank you for all you do to make your neighborhood and community safer for all of us each day. And may you and all you care for have a safe, peaceful, and relaxing summer.

“Don’t Let the 2 Minutes You ‘Save’
Be the Last 2 Minutes of Someone’s Life.”
Adapted from David Townsend (Tia’s father)

In safety,
Tom Everson
Executive Director

KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® - A “For Action” Organization -501(c) (3)
kkad25@kkad25.org
www.KeepKidsAliveDrive25.org – Keep up with the latest at the KKAD25 Blog.

Keep Kids Alive Drive 25® and related logos and slogans (Be Aware! Drive With Care®, Check Your Speed®/No Need To Speed®, Stop! Take 3 To See®, Stop Means Stop®, Seat Belts-FASTENATING!®, and It’s Not A Race! Create Space©) are registered trademarks/copyrights of Keep Kids Alive Drive 25, P.O. Box 45563 Omaha, Nebraska, 68145. No other entities may use these or similar marks without prior permission. Call 402-334-1391 for information.

ILLINOIS IDEAS! KEEP KIDS ALIVE!

ILLINOIS IDEAS!

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful,
committed citizens can change the world.
Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.”
Margaret Mead

Dear Friend in Safety,

This note is about “Illinois Ideas.” When it comes to KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25®, Illinois communities have taken the lead with several first-time ideas in implementing local campaigns.
Examples include:

• The City of Bolingbrook – through the lead of their Police Dept. - taking on the role of the first city to pilot the campaign in September of 1999.
• Valley View Transportation is the first school bus company in the country to apply KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® decals to the back of each school bus.
• The Mount Prospect Police Dept. is the first in the nation to apply the KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® logo to a patrol car.
• The City of Oak Park is the first in the U.S. to utilize KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® Avenue Banners to help get the message out in their community, which can be tailored to incorporate the name of your city or neighborhood.
• The DuPage County Sheriff’s Department served as catalyst for several communities initiating the campaign, including Addison, Bloomingdale, Glen Ellyn, and Darien.
  

Ideas for the Future
We look forward to supporting future growth of our traffic safety initiatives in Illinois. Here are some ways that you can help.

• Invite your workplace to become a corporate sponsor/partner. Contact 402-334-1391 or Tom@kkad25.org to talk about possibilities.
• Be a catalyst for neighborhood/community involvement. All you need to get started is available for free at KKAD25 Start-up.
• Incorporate KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® into your local Safe Routes to School initiative. For more information on Safe Routes in Illinois, visit IL Safe Routes.
• Invite your local school to help seed the campaign in your community through a KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® SCHOOL FUNDRAISER (Click here)
• Invite your local high school to create a safe-driving culture in their school - and in the community as well. (Click here to learn how)

Your community can also benefit from on-site support to develop your community neighborhood traffic safety plan. Call 402-334-1391 or e-mail Tom@kkad25.org for information.

Thank you for all you do to make your neighborhood and community safer for all of us each day. And may you and all you care for have a safe, peaceful, and relaxing summer.

“Don’t Let the 2 Minutes You ‘Save’
Be the Last 2 Minutes of Someone’s Life.”
Adapted from David Townsend (Tia’s father)

In safety,
Tom Everson
Executive Director

KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® - A “For Action” Organization -501(c) (3)
kkad25@kkad25.org
www.KeepKidsAliveDrive25.org – Keep up with the latest at the KKAD25 Blog.

Keep Kids Alive Drive 25® and related logos and slogans (Be Aware! Drive With Care®, Check Your Speed®/No Need To Speed®, Stop! Take 3 To See®, Stop Means Stop®, Seat Belts-FASTENATING!®, and It’s Not A Race! Create Space©) are registered trademarks/copyrights of Keep Kids Alive Drive 25, P.O. Box 45563 Omaha, Nebraska, 68145. No other entities may use these or similar marks without prior permission. Call 402-334-1391 for information.

ARIZONA IN ACTION! KEEP KIDS ALIVE!

ARIZONA IN ACTION!

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful,
committed citizens can change the world.
Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.”
Margaret Mead

Dear Friend in Safety,

This note is about “Arizona in Action!” The story of the growth of KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® in Arizona is a result of the many actions taken by residents, law enforcement, city neighborhood services, public works, and neighborhood/homeowners associations and watch groups over the past 10 years. Your efforts have made, and continue to make, a difference in keeping us all safer on neighborhood streets, and beyond.
Following are examples of “Arizona in Action.”

• Gary Greer, a retired detective with the Phoenix Police Dept., was the first to come on board to initiate KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® in his neighborhood. In 2001, he helped organize the first neighborhood KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® traffic safety forum for neighborhoods in Northwest Phoenix, at which I had the privilege of speaking.
• The Oro Valley Police Dept., with leadership from Officer Mike Stevenson, was the first community in AZ to develop a comprehensive plan for implementing KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® citywide (applying KKAD25 Decals to residential trash cans to engage all residents in getting the message out on the street). Read about the results Gary Greer’s, as well as Oro Valley’s efforts – cooperation between neighborhoods, police, the trash-hauler, the Boy Scouts, and the Tucson Electric Company (which underwrote the cost of the effort) at Organize to Cut Residential Speeding (A 13.5% reduction in average speed).
• The Public Works Department for the City of Tucson was the first in the State to integrate a bilingual aspect of the campaign into their neighborhood traffic safety efforts. Phoenix has also utilized this option.
• Neighborhood Services for the City of Phoenix has spearheaded the growth of the campaign in their neighborhoods. They have been the most active City Neighborhood Services Dept. in the U.S. in promoting the campaign.
• The Cities of Scottsdale and Avondale (Public Works), and El Mirage (Police) are the three most recent additions in integrating KEEP KIDS ALIVE initiatives into their neighborhood traffic safety programs.
• Joe Rios, a leader in his Tempe Neighborhood Watch Group, spearheaded introduction of the campaign into his neighborhood. He also engaged Paul’s ACE Hardware as a local corporate partner. For his efforts, he was recognized with an “Outstanding Citizen Award.”

Future Action!

We look forward to continue support of growth of our traffic safety initiatives as you act to create safer roadways for the benefit of everyone. Here are some ways that you can help.

• Invite your workplace to become a corporate sponsor/partner. Contact 402-334-1391 or Tom@kkad25.org to talk about possibilities.
• Be a catalyst for neighborhood/community involvement. All you need to get started is available for free at KKAD25 Start-up.
• Incorporate KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® into your local Safe Routes to School initiative. For more information on Safe Routes in Arizona, visit Safe Routes AZ.
• Invite your local school to help seed the campaign in your community through a KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® SCHOOL FUNDRAISER (Click here)
  Invite your local high school to create a safe-driving culture in their school - and in the community as well. (Click here to learn how)
• Your community can also benefit from on-site support to develop your community neighborhood traffic safety plan. Call 402-334-1391 or e-mail Tom@kkad25.org for information.

Thank you for all you do to make your neighborhood and community safer for all of us each day. And may you and all you care for have a safe, peaceful, and relaxing summer.

“Don’t Let the 2 Minutes You ‘Save’
Be the Last 2 Minutes of Someone’s Life.”
Adapted from David Townsend (Tia’s father)

In safety,
Tom Everson
Executive Director

KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® - A “For Action” Organization -501(c) (3)
kkad25@kkad25.org
www.KeepKidsAliveDrive25.org – Keep up with the latest at the KKAD25 Blog.

Keep Kids Alive Drive 25® and related logos and slogans (Be Aware! Drive With Care®, Check Your Speed®/No Need To Speed®, Stop! Take 3 To See®, Stop Means Stop®, Seat Belts-FASTENATING!®, and It’s Not A Race! Create Space©) are registered trademarks/copyrights of Keep Kids Alive Drive 25, P.O. Box 45563 Omaha, Nebraska, 68145. No other entities may use these or similar marks without prior permission. Call 402-334-1391 for information.

UNIQUELY CALIFORNIA! KEEP KIDS ALIVE!

UNIQUELY CALIFORNIA!

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful,
committed citizens can change the world.
Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.”
Margaret Mead

Dear Friend in Safety,
This note is “Uniquely California!” That is, it highlights the unique role that California communities have played in the growth of KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® these past 11 years.

For example, did you know that?

• Danville was the first city in the U.S. to integrate KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® into their neighborhood traffic calming initiative in January, 1999 (the campaign itself was only 5 months old).
• Oceanside was the first city in the U.S. to conduct a pre/post study on the effectiveness of integrating residents as a front-line solution to speeding in neighborhoods. This study was published in the Urban Transportation Monitor, and can be found at KKAD25 Proves Successful. One result of this article was hearing from traffic engineers and safety advocates from as far away as Australia and India.
• Oceanside’s efforts not only made a world of difference; they also influenced the first “ripple effect” for growing the campaign as it spread down the coast in San Diego County to the communities of Vista, Encinitas, Escondido, and Solana Beach, a pattern that has spread to other counties around the country. \
• The Roseville Coalition of Neighborhood Associations (RCONA) was the first coalition to work to mobilize a whole city in taking on the campaign. Their work influenced other Sacramento Area communities and continues to this day.
• The Oakland Pedestrian Safety Project and Pedestrian Friendly Alameda were the first two pedestrian safety groups in the country to work to launch the campaign in their communities.
• The Safe Communities Coalition at UC-Irvine introduced the campaign to Orange County communities, establishing the first bi-lingual (Spanish) campaign along the way.
  Over 60 California Communities have initiated the campaign so far.

As summer arrives and even as your community prepares for the next school year, consider how a KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® campaign can work, or continue to build, to improve the quality of life on every street in your city. Contact us for direct support at 402-334-1391 or Tom@kkad25.org.

Thank you for all you do to make your neighborhood and community safer for all of us each day. And may you and all you care for have a safe, peaceful, and relaxing summer.

“Don’t Let the 2 Minutes You ‘Save’
Be the Last 2 Minutes of Someone’s Life.”
Adapted from David Townsend (Tia’s father)

In safety,
Tom Everson
Executive Director

KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25® - A “For Action” Organization -501(c) (3)
kkad25@kkad25.org
www.KeepKidsAliveDrive25.org – Keep up with the latest at the KKAD25 Blog.

Keep Kids Alive Drive 25® and related logos and slogans (Be Aware! Drive With Care®, Check Your Speed®/No Need To Speed®, Stop! Take 3 To See®, Stop Means Stop®, Seat Belts-FASTENATING!®, and It’s Not A Race! Create Space©) are registered trademarks/copyrights of Keep Kids Alive Drive 25, P.O. Box 45563 Omaha, Nebraska, 68145. No other entities may use these or similar marks without prior permission. Call 402-334-1391 for information.