The Booze and Cruise, You'll Lose program began their 2004 tour of Ohio Valley high schools with a stop at Mt. de Chantal Visitation Academy on Wednesday. Nearly 60 students gathered in the school's theatre and received some valuable advice from Wheeling Nailers J.C. Ruid, Jake Ortmeyer, head coach Pat Bingham, attorney Rich Wilson from Wilson Law Offices, and Trooper Jason Laing of the West Virginia State Police. The Grim Reaper also made a "surprise" visit to students throughout the entire day, reminding them that drinking and driving can kill anyone at anytime.

Wilson split the students into two teams and asked various questions concerning the legal and financial consequences of drinking and driving, then further explained the answers to the group. Those who participated in the discussion were awarded Nailer tickets, Booze and Cruise, You'll Lose t-shirts, mouse pads, WTOV umbrella, or other items. Wheeling Nailers broadcaster, Ned Bowdern and WTOV's Jeff Oechslein served as team captains and assisted the students in answering the questions.

Wilson emphasized the importance of understanding the consequences and making safe decisions. "The number one killer of children aged birth to 15 years old is traffic crashes," explained Wilson. "And that is without any alcohol involvement." Wilson continued, "Now throw alcohol into the equation and you folks and your younger brothers and sisters don't have a chance." He commented, "Why anyone would increase the risk by drinking then trying to drive is beyond me, and that goes for adults as well. "I encourage you to know the statistics, understand the consequences of your actions, then make the safe decision which is not to drink and drive or get into a vehicle with anyone that has been drinking."

West Virginia State Trooper, Jason Laing explained that many DUI arrests don't start out as DUI arrests, but as minor traffic violations. "Many times we'll pull someone over because they have a tail light out, then we notice the smell of alcohol and that's when our attention shifts to a possible DUI arrest", says Trooper Laing. He demonstrated to the students first-hand what an actual DUI stop entails. With the use of "Drunk Goggles", one student simulated being intoxicated and was taken through a number of field sobriety tests. After not being able to properly perform the test, Trooper Laing handcuffed the student and placed her under arrest.

Wheeling Nailers J.C. Ruid and Jake Ortmeyer explained to the students that drinking and driving can ruin your dreams and reputation, and put a strain on their personal lives as well. Ortmeyer, who's brother plays for the New York Rangers, shared a story about a friend who decided to drink and drive, then ended up killing another friend of theirs. "It's a difficult situation for everyone involved that didn't have to happen," explained Ortmeyer. "He made the wrong choice and it cost him his friend's life and essentially his own life." Ortmeyer continues, "That's something he'll have to live with for the rest of his life." Ruid, who is captain of the first place Nailers, from an professional point of view. "Nobody wants a player that they consider a PR nightmare," explained Ruid. "All it takes is one mistake, such as getting a DUI, let alone the possibility that you might even injure or kill someone in the process, and you'll be considered a PR nightmare." He continues, "And that title will follow you wherever you go, for the rest of your life."

Wilson ended offering to the students, "I like to think of stopping someone from drinking and driving as saving a life. It may be the life of a friend, neighbor, or maybe a family member, you just don't know. Please make the safe decision."

Special thanks to Science Bowl Team members, Kellen Calinger, Makita Weaver, Sarah Gutman, Sashi Murthy, and Michele Dufalla for helping organize the program at the school. For more information on the Booze and Cruise, You'll Lose program, contact the law offices of Gold, Khourey and Turak at (304) 845-9750.