Daily Pioneer News

PLATTEVILLE - Erin Walter will be a spring graduate with a degree in criminal justice. In 2002 Walter enacted the UWP chapter of Drunk and Drugged Driving Month or 3D Month, recognized annually in December.

Due to Walter's interest in alcohol awareness programs, her research led her to the information about 3D Month through Bacchus & Gamma, a peer education network. Bacchus & Gamma was founded in 1975 at the University of Florida in response to a need on campus. Bacchus is the acronym for Boost Alcohol Consciousness Concerning the Health of University Students, and Gamma is the acronym for Greeks Advocating Mature Management of Alcohol.

When asked if there was a particular event or situation in her life that spurred her initiative in 2002 to start the chapter, Walter said, "No, I've just watched and seen what can happen to people. I have too much respect for my parents to put them through unnecessary anguish."

Lights on for Life is a nationwide remembrance on Dec. 12, of those killed or injured in impaired driving accidents, and the UWP chapter recognized this day by handing out information and key chains with a mouthpiece to the breathalyzer test on it; a reminder when picking up the keys to give them to someone that has not been drinking.

In closing Walter said, "When a person is drinking they get an increased feeling of invincibility; a feeling that nothing can happen to them. Couple this with a marked decrease in inhibitions and you've got a volatile mix. The time to deal with these feelings is NOT after having had a few, but to plan ahead for a safe holiday season."