Nov 26, 2003 2 min read

Safe driving urged State police across the Commonwealth are urging motorists to drive defensively during the heavily traveled Thanksgiving holiday weekend.

“Although they put themselves and others at risk, many motorists are aggressive drivers,” said state police Commissioner Jeffrey B. Miller. “They speed, tailgate and fail to yield the right of way.

“To protect yourself, drive defensively. Obey the speed limit, leave plenty of room between your car and the vehicle in front of you, and be courteous to other drivers.”

Col. Miller said that during last year’s official five-day Thanksgiving driving period, 10 people were killed and 521 others were injured in 1,375 crashes investigated by state police. Eight of those killed were not wearing seat belts, and three of the fatalities were alcohol-related. Of the total number of crashes, 78 were alcohol-related.

During the same period, troopers issued 4,568 speeding citations and arrested 255 motorists for driving under the influence.

State police again this year will participate in “Operation C.A.R.E.,” a national program aimed at reducing crashes on interstate highways during holiday weekends.

The official Thanksgiving holiday driving period covers today through Sunday.

Library activities set

The Fredericktown Area Public Library released the following announcement.

The “Book Buddies” book club meets Sunday, Dec. 14, at 2 p.m., in the library. They will discuss “The Valley of Decision” by Marcia Davenport.

The “Friends of the Library” and the board of directors will not meet in December.

The “Friends of the Library” are raffling an electric scooter for a $10 donation.

Access Pa. Power Library is available to patrons from their home computers. You must have new bar-coded library card to access it. These are available at the library at no charge.

The Entertainment Coupon Book is available at the library or from any Friend for $25.

Library officials said patrons should be prepared for a change in hours of operation at the library beginning in January 2004 if the state aid funding is not restored.

The library will be closed Dec. 24, 25, 26, 27, 31 and Jan. 1.

Fund-raiser planned

Fayette County ABATE will hold a “Blankets for the Homeless” drive Saturday from 7 to 11 p.m. at Jimmy’s Restaurant and Lounge, Fairchance. Those interested in attending are asked to bring a new blanket or a $5 donation. For more information, call 724-677-9928.