Drunk driving accidents are a year round problem, but as we all know, the holidays are the apex. While some larger cities in the western part of the US are trying to catch up with mass transit, finding alternative transportation for the extra-joyful can be excruciating. The rail systems in places like Dallas and Houston are great for those who live within walking distance of a station, but that's a small percentage of the population. Cabs, in the west, are expensive. That 20 minute cab ride home can set you back $30 or more, and for students and people who are just getting by, that's a big chunk of change.
There is a group in Tulsa, Oklahoma, who are taking on the problem in their city. When a drunk driver killed a beloved friend, they realized that drunk driving needs to be tackled through positive action, and this weekend they are getting the word out.
Missy's Keys 4 Cabs, created in honor of Melissa Eubanks, is a non-profit aiming to get drunk drivers off Tulsa's streets by providing free cab rides home. They're kicking off with a party, showing the program in action and reaching across generations rather than just putting out press releases. Maybe this is what other cities in the west and midwest need to do - stop preaching and start doing.
Getting toasty over the holidays is what a lot of people do. It's a fact. Dealing with it by making sure that toasty can be as safe as it is fun is true holiday love and spirit. Hats off to this group of caring friends and family for making a difference at a time some would spend in anger. Let's see programs like this pop up in other transit-deficient cities!
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