The Omnibus

Issue date: 10/26/07 Section: News

Media Credit: Grace Jeoung DARE Instructor Corporal Jeff Duren gives a sobriety test to junior Christina Boydstun while she was wearing drunk simulating goggles as a part of Alcohol Awareness Week. Students also had the opportunity to try and drive a golf cart through an obstacle course while wearing the goggles. [Click to enlarge]

Students participating in Southwest Baptist University's Alcohol Awareness Week experienced what it is like to be drunk and behind the wheel of a vehicle. Special simulator goggles, a golf cart and an obstacle course on the Goodson Student Union parking lot gave them a sense of the dangers of driving after drinking alcohol, without the danger.
Meyer Hall Resident Director Chris Martin hoped the event would be helpful.
"It's easier to reach those who do not drink and drive. The bigger challenge is to reach those who do," said Martin.
The demonstration, sponsored by Plaster and Meyer Halls, SBU Safety and Security and the Bolivar Police Department, was one of several activities during the week.
Director of Residence Life Amy Welch said about 200 students usually participate in SBU's Alcohol Awareness Week and estimated that the week's activities would cost between $500 and $700.
Other scheduled events included a "1940s Dancing with the Stars" event including Ballroom and West Coast Swing dancing lessons.
In addition, a Student Remembrance Wall in the student union memorializes three students who were killed in an alcohol-related accident in 2000.
"The University takes a strong stance against alcohol consumption on or off campus," said Welch. "The University does not take on the role of a church to say that it is right or wrong to drink alcohol. However, we feel our alcohol policy clearly draws a line of safety for students.
SBU's alcohol policy does offer grace for first time offenders.
Students who violate the University alcohol policy are required to see a counselor on campus, pay a fine and perform 20 hours of community service.
The University is required to provide drug and alcohol awareness education in compliance with the Drug Free Schools Community Act. October 22 to 27 is the National Collegiate Alcohol Awareness Week.

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