MADD – Mothers Against Drinking & Driving

Visit their website: www.maddsandiego.org

If you or a loved one has been the victim of a drunk driving incident you can call the  24/7 Victim Services Hotline at 1-877-623-3435

Stats
http://www.madd.org/Drunk-Driving/Drunk-Driving/Statistics.aspx

Victims Impact Panel – VIP Panel Information – or scroll down for the schedule:

http://www.maddsandiego.org/webpage/10

Victim Impact Panels

Spanish           4th Tuesday of every month               4:45 pm

San Diego Hall of Justice Jury Lounge, 330 West Broadway SD 92101

Spanish           3rd Wednesday of every month         6:00 pm

Vista Courthouse Jury Lounge, 325 South. Melrose Vista, 92083

English            4th Wednesday of every month         4:45 pm

Spanish           2nd Wednesday of every month         4:45 pm

THERE ARE NO CLASSES ON COURT HOLIDAYS

You must bring photo ID, your case number and due date
Visitors are allowed as space permits.

Please call (858) 564-0785 for detailed recorded information. 

A montage of real, some re-enacted situations that have lead to the tragic traffic collisions we respond to daily!  From reckless driving, speeding, distracted, impaired driving – we see first hand in EMS (emergency medical field) – please drive carefully. Your life and the lives of others depend on it.

Yes – “distracted driving” is a nation-wide problem!  It injures and kills motorists and pedestrians every day!!! 

I talk about distracted driving in my driving safety lectures, but I’ve also been the victim of distracted drivers (3) times in my driving career.  First, I was hit by someone who flew into a parking where I was, while he was looking down at paperwork and talking on a cell phone – I was able to hit the gas and clear my drivers’ side to avoid certain death.  Second,  I was on a freeway - when a driver was busy looking to his right talking to his passenger and failed to notice stopped traffic ahead, he rear-ended traffic while jumping in front of me.  The third, and hopefully the last,  a motorist ran a STOP sign by “two” car lengths coming off a freeway to a surface street, she was in a hurry and busy talking to her young daughter, she looked to her right and “failed” to look to her left as I approached from her left side with the “right of way” – jumping into my path…”that” crash almost paralyzed me.  I’ve got the scar from my $65-thousand neck surgery as lasting proof… so “yes” I know this problem all too well.  (By the way my alertness and seat-belt saved me in all three incidents.)  But sadly, I also respond to these incidents almost daily as a spokesperson for a police and fire department!

Please take a look at the following two websites, the second is Oprah’s “NO PHONE ZONE” campaign – please take the pledge, and have your family, friends, school, workplace, and civic groups “take the pledge!”  It is a matter of Life and Death!

www.distraction.gov  

Take the pledge:

http://www.oprah.com/questionaire/ipledge.html?id=4

Thank you and stay safe!

Monica Zech

Safe Driving Educator

monicazech@cox.net

Are my talks are injury prevention making a difference?  Take a look at some of the comments I’ve received through the years – it’s means a lot to mean hear their feedback!

A follow-up from my talk at Valhalla High School:

Hi Monica,
The school is still buzzing about your presentation. (4/7/10) I cannot thank you enough. 

Also, I spoke to the President of our school PTO (formerly PTA) and she is extremely interested in having you out to speak to the parents before our school year ends. I was hoping you would have some availability one evening between now and mid-June. If so, I will meet with her and our VP to see when we can schedule the theater. If you can do it, are there are days or weeks that are not
good for you. Again, it would be an evening time so parents could attend.
Thank you again, I look forward to hearing from you!

R. Brooks

PS. As you probably know….today is National NO PHONE ZONE Day!!!
So far we have collected almost 300 signed No Phone Zone car pledges from students and staff and they are still coming in to me each day! 
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April 7, 2010: Following four driving safety assemblies I delivered at Valhalla High School today, I received the following card:

Monica – I cannot thank you enough for taking the time to present to the students and staff at Valhalla High!  Your presentation was fantastic and I know you touched many lives today.  It was wonderful meeting you and I look forward to the opportunity to work with you again! 

Sincerely,

R. Brooks

On March 14, 2010: I just returned from Miami where I was invited to speak to students and their parents at a private high school called Gulliver Preparatory. I delivered two talks on March 11, 2010.  I first spoke to the students (9th-10th-11th & 12th grade levels) and then to their parents. Here is a comment I received from the host parent Lisa about my talks:

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Another very nice comment following a safe driving talk I delivered to a Yacht Club in the beach area.  Received October 9, 2009.

Hi Monica,

I have been meaning to send you a note letting you know how much we enjoyed your talk our M. B. Yacht Club.  Your speech did have an impact!  That same evening there was an event at the club where alcohol was being served.  One of the ladies that attended the meeting came up to me and said she and her husband had decided to spend the night on their boat at the club after the party.  She said normally they would have driven home but your talk reinforced what they both knew and was a good reminder on drinking and driving. 

Thank you again for speaking to our club.  I was thinking it would be beneficial to invite the juniors to this type of presentation next time.  I won’t be the president of the group next year but I will pass on your contact information and the positive feedback I received to next year’s president.  If there is anything the club can do for you please let me know.

 Sharon B.

Received this comment 9/2/09 following a safe driving and disaster preparedness talk to a mobile home community in Santee:

Received this comment on 5/14/09 following a safe driving talk I delivered to a traffic school on 5/09/09 – thank you!

Monica Zech,
I’m just E-maling you to thank you for doing such a wonderful job speaking at the CBI traffic school this past Saturday. I also wanted to let you know I just saw you on the morning edition of San Diego 6 news as the safety spokesperson. You are doing a great job all together and I hope you will continue to inspire other young drivers like you did for me.
Sincerely,
C.W.

Received following a driving safety lectures to educators at a local University on 1/12/09:

Monica- I wanted to drop you a note to say “Thank You” for taking the time out of your busy schedule to come and speak at Prof. Graf’s Health Education class last week. Your presentation was really eye opening and I’ve been making better decisions ever since!

Thanks again and I hope to one day call you up to come speak to my class.

Best, B. Ratner

Dear Monica,
I met you at Dr. Graph’s health class at National University. I am a special education teacher at a local High School. My students are 18-22 years old. I’m sure my students would be impressed and shocked by how dangerous walking around the streets could be. I thank you for everything you do for children and to ensure public safety.

I always think of how many people suffer or die needlessly on our roads. It upsets me to hear of anyone dying, but these people are not at war and shouldn’t have to go through that. Thank you for everything that you do to help people become more aware of safety.

God Bless you,
Carlos

Received December 11, 2008

Following a safe driving lecture to Navy Personnel in Point Loma:

Dear Ms. Monica,

Thank you for your time spent with us this week at our All Hands (military) Safety Brief. I found your brief interesting, educative, and (morbidly) entertaining.

While I have never seen the level of trauma you have, I do have a bit of time volunteering with a county fire department.as a firefighter/EMT, and as an auxiliary police officer. I’ve seen what speed can do when a small car hits a telephone pole at high speed.

(After hearing my talk) I have slowed down, given a 3-4 second distance in following, compared to the 1.5-2.5 I used to, and have caught myself looking several times both ways before proceeding through a controlled intersection. Not much, but at least I will have more reaction time if I am involved in something I can’t avoid.

It really brought it home when you shared with us the loss of your father, and the incident your daughter was in.

Again, thank you for your time.

Best Regards,
Ken L. L.
Chief Petty Officer, U.S. Navy

Following a driving safety talk on November 10, 2008:

Hi Monica,

Just wanted to thank you again for so graciously and expertly presenting last night for AAUW. Everyone was raptly attentive, and I think we all learned some interesting, new things along with being graphically reminded of much we know, but often forget to follow! You certainly know your material, and your passion and sincerity come through glowingly. Well done! Just had an email from our president, Rilla, and she expressed her praises for your talk, and wished she could have heard the full 2 hr. presentation! Ever thought of starting a Fan Club? Please know how much I appreciate your willingness to give up so much time for my group.

G.C.

Following a driving safety talk to a Kiwanis Group in La Jolla, October 24, 2008:

Monica,

Thank you for your presentation. You did a terrific job. One highly reliable mark of a good presentation is when people stay over to talk to the speaker, voting with their feet as it were. You had lots and lots of people doing so. So, kudos!

R. C., C. Law Firm

Received August 12, 2008

Following a driving safety lecture to the San Diego Gas & Electric office in El Cajon:

Monica,

I am late, but don’t want miss the deserved opportunity to say how enjoyable it was to hear you at SDG&E’s Safety Standdown in El Cajon. In so many, many ways you informed and educated employees on driving and it’s potential ugly consequences. Personally, I didn’t want to drive back to the home office or go home that day. Again, your energy and passion was remarkable!

Thanks,

R.G.
Business Systems Analyst

Received May 21, 2008:

Hi Monica,

My name is C.M. and I was privileged to attend your presentation at our monthly TIP continuing education meeting Monday evening. Along with most of my fellow volunteers, we were terrified to drive home that night but certainly came away from your presentation with many sobering facts and figures. Thanks so much for the “wake-up call/reminder” to our group…..especially some of us more “mature” drivers!

Thanks again for a most informative evening!

Regards, C. M.
(T.I.P. is Trauma Intervention Program)

Received May 18, 2008
From a parent whose child attends 3rd grade at Our Lady of Grace Church Academy in El Cajon:

I have to tell you what an impact you’ve had on my daughter! Whenever you come to their classroom to speak on safety she is very excited. She can’t wait to get home to tell me all about the safety information you delivered to her classroom of students. Thank you & Bless you for all you do for our children – and our community! – Ms. Church

(Yes, that’s her name)

(Thank you Ms. Church your comments meant a lot to me. – Monica )

Received January 8, 2008 following my talk to a Navy Pilot group at North Island Military base:

Monica,

Thank you again for yet another outstanding presentation to HSL-47! We greatly appreciate the commitment of time that you have given to us, and we are more safe on the roads and at home, and are better prepared for the “unknowns” out there. If we can ever assist you in any way, please don’t hesitate to ask.

Sincerely,

J. Melody – North Island Base

(THANK YOU MILITARY FOR PROTECTING OUR COUNTRY! – Monica Zech)

My goal is to get out to schools – grade school through College – to speak on the do’s and don’ts of going after a great career-future. I recently (9/19/07) spoke to medical students on the various jobs in the EMS-Emergency Medical Field…apparently I got my point across:

Hi Monica,

I heard you speak at SDSU in Professor Graf’s class last week. I just wanted to email you and thank you for your powerful presentation. It definitly made an impact on me. You opened my eyes to more possible career opportunities and you motivated me to stay in the health field even more. I never have thought of working as an EMT, or 911 dispatcher, yet now that I know of them in more detail they are on my list to consider!

Thank you again for your motivation and guidance. I am at a point where I am lost and trying decide which road to take after I get my bachelors in Public Health. I have two semesters left to decide, and your words helped me realize how much I want to work one on one with people.

Sincerely,
A.S. – SDSU Student

*In June I was very honored to speak to audience of doctors and nurses at a trauma conference, I’ve posted their very nice letter of appreciation.

August 28, 2007

Dear Monica Zech:

We would like to express our gratitude for your excellent presentation “From What I See –Why the Rush to Die” at our June 29, 2007 Advanced Trauma Symposium. The participants consistently evaluated your presentation highly. We thoroughly enjoyed your presentation style – and so admire and appreciate your message. We sincerely thank you for your time and expertise in making this a successful program.

Sincerely,
M. Hilfiker, MD,Ph.D. J.Bergman, MSN, RN
Medical Director Educator
Trauma Services Trauma Services

*It’s always my honor and pleasure to speak to the military! On July 6th I had the honor of speaking to the crew of the U.S.S. Boxer. About 1000 were in attendance:

Hi Monica,
People are still talking about some of the stuff you showed. Just walking around the ship I’ve overheard people talking about this or that from the presentation. In my experience that’s pretty unusual as almost always an hour after the presentation is over, people have no clue as to what was put out. Thanks once again for appearing on such short notice and giving us a memorable presentation. In all likelihood we may call on you in the future.
V/R Lewie
USS Boxer

*It’s also an honor to speak to High School Seniors, giving them the tools to making good decisions in reaching their career goals…

From Monte Vista High School & Assistant Principal Donald Carroll:

Dear Ms. Zech:
The Monte Vista Staff and Senior Class wishes to thank you for your presentation to drunk driving and the problem that the mixing of alcohol and automobiles can create.

The video presentation (power point) was a very real look at what can actually happen to those who are driving impaired. Many students made positive comments and left the presentation with a greater awareness and vowed not to drive under the influence.

Once again, thank you for your time.

I’ve been doing school assemblies to “freshman” students at high schools since they’ll soon be getting their drivers licenses…on May 2nd, 2007, I spoke to 9th grade students at an assemly at Santana High School – and received a very nice thank you:

Monica – On behalf of the 9th grade students and staff at Santana High School, I want to thank you for the information and engaging presentation you gave. I think you should be pleased to know that all our teachers reported their students engaged in lively conversations the next day. You made quite an impact!

With Our Sincere Thanks – N. Magee

In my career talks – I love to inspire youth to pursue life-saving careers:

Received 3/15/07

Dear Ms. Zech:

I recently met you when you visited my traffic school session in Escondido and gave a powerful and touching presentation a few weeks ago. I asked for an informational booklet on the El Cajon Fire Department. After reading it I became very interested in pursuing my career into the fire service. I would really like to become a paramedic or even a fire fighter. My friend and I have already set up a ride along with a North County area Fire Department. I am very excited and I cannot wait! I would like to know if it wouldn’t be too much trouble if you can send and give me more information on becoming a paramedic or fire fighter. Thank you very much it will be very well appreciated!

Sincerely,
V.Martinez

Following a talk to a teacher’s group in Pacific Beach:

Sent February 13, 2007

Hi Monica,
I saw a presentation by you in a class I was taking from G.Graf last month in Pacific Beach. I was deeply affected by your lecture and was wondering if you would possibly consider speaking to my church’s youth group sometime in May. I spoke with our youth minister and she is interested if you are available. If you can do it, I will provide you with her contact information. Thank you for your time.
Sincerely,
M.Ulrich

Following my talk to a utility company in Downey, California July 24, 2006

Hi Monica

I wanted to thank you for a fantastic presentation yesterday. You really were the highlight of our meeting! People couldn’t stop talking about how informative and real your message was. I think you hit home in such a huge way and I truly believe that you’ve impacted each and every one of our lives. And for that, I thank you very much!

It was such a pleasure meeting and having you at our first safety meeting. I don’t know if my counterparts in San Diego have used you before, but I will definitely pass along your name and contact information for their next safety meeting. I hope that we can work with you on future safety meetings.

Take Care!
L.De Hoop
Assoc. Program Manager, Customer Programs
Southern California Gas Company

*Following My Talk To The Marines At Miramar on November 21st, 2005:

Dear Ms. Zech,
I would like to offer my thanks for your outstanding driver-safety presentation at the HMH-361 Safety Stand-down. Your presentation on the consequences of traffic violations, aggressive driving, road rage and driving under the influence was exactly the upfront type of training needed by our Marines. The visual aids provided graphic amplification to the points presented in the brief and kept the audience focused. I sincerely hope that our Marines incorporate the information you provided to become more conscientous, defensive and safe drivers. Your initiative and professionalism are a credit to you, the El Cajon Fire Department and the City of El Cajon. On behalf of the Marines of HMH-361, thank you for a job well done.
Sincerely, R.L. Caputo Jr., Commanding Officer

Following a recent talk to a parenting group:

Thank you Monica for your wonderful presentation!!! You make this world a better place for children and families! You are one of my hero’s in this world!!! Everyone is still talking about what they have learned. The seeds of knowledge you plant really sprout and grow very strong. One Mom mentioned how she went right home and had a talk with her husband, especially about the road rage business. She is proudly taking a stand and really educated him on what she had learned. “I never cease to be amazed.”
L.Osborn
Parent Education Instructor, Grossmont Adult School, Grossmont Union High School District

Following a fire safety presentation to 3rd graders at Magnolia Elementary in El Cajon on 9-23-05:

Dear Monica,
Thank you for presenting the “Fire Safety Assembly for Third Graders” at Magnolia Elementary School on Friday, Sept. 23rd. The students loved it! You are such a celebrity and the students greatly enjoyed your presentation! Your message was taken to heart by everyone there.

Thank you for bringing the three firefighters too! Even though they couldn’t stay for the entire session, they were as popular as ROCK STARS by the crowd of children!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I am not kidding. Their uniformed presence and friendly nods held the children in awe of them. You can be sure the Magnolia audiences really appreciate their visitors!

Thanks again for your wonderful work! You are such a lovely person and a fantastic role model for kids – and teachers as well!

From,
J.Dutcher
Teacher & Assembly Coordinator

Email following safety talk in June at Our Lady Of Peace Academy’s Driver’s Ed class:

6-10-05
Dear Ms. Zech,
I was in the class for drivers education at OLP this week and I heard your presentation. Your speaking really reached through to all of us, and I can see that it will be very beneficial to all of us also. Thank you very much for taking your time to speak to all of us, and your dedication to help us realize the importance of safe driving.

Sincerely – A.D.

Letter from Driver’s Ed & Health Teacher at Sweetwater High 5/26/05:

Dear El Cajon Fire Chief Mike Scott;
Ms. Zech’s persentations about traffic safety is a wonderful compliment to my driver’s education and health classes here at Sweetwater High School. Her amplified golden voice captures the attention of the students. The slide program, with it’s high impact photos holds their attention. Thank you for allowing Ms. Zech present to my classes, I look forward to her return next year.

Sincerely,
C. Yamashiro

Following talk to a Twin’s Club in Poway 4/19/05:

Thank YOU Monica! Your presentation was phenomenal. I left there wishing that every friend and family member of mine was there to hear it as well! You do amazing work and I’m sure you are saving lives every day with the things you say. I know I will certainly drive differently and more cautiously than I have in the past. I love what you said about “karma” and that accidents are NO accidents. What a different perspective to have in our heads while driving and dealing with pushy drivers.

I’m sorry for the losses you’ve had in your own family. It’s easy to see why you feel so passionate about car safety! It’s clear to me that you are fulfilling your “purpose” all right! You are honoring the memory of your Dad and Sister every day. Thanks again, so much for taking the time to speak to our club. I know we’d absolutely love to have you speak to us again. Only next time I will encourage everyone to bring their spouses and friends!

Thanks again for your time and wonderful presentation!!! It was truly OUR pleasure,

Sincerely,
J.Boaz
Twin Club Poway

I was very honored to speak recently to a large group of 450 Marines, just back from Iraq, at Camp Pendelton on traffic safety…

From their GySgt: (Sent: 10/25/04)

There were approximately 450 people there for your presentation last week. Thank you so much for a fine presentation. I have received a number of positive comments. I am sure your presentation hit home for a number of Marines in the audience. With the help of people like you, we can make a difference!

Semper Fidelis,
GySgt B. Voss

Sent: September 15, 2004
Following S.D.G. & E. Safety Stand-down In Miramar

Thank you Monica, Your presentation was great!!! And very well received by everyone. Keep up the good work!!

And To: Marie, Thank you for your great selection of Monica for our stand-down.

T.Harris
S.D.G. & E.
Electric Meters Operations

Same lecture, another comment:

October 14, 2004
Monica,
Thank you again for presenting at our Stand Down! Your presentation and materials were awesome – I really think you made a positive impact on many of us.

H.J. Vanderlinde

Sent: August 24, 2004
From a Driver’s Education Instructor

Monica……….
Thank you for the article. I will use it in Drivers Ed as well as in Traffic Violater School for La Mesa Driving School. Keep up the good work. You are doing an excellent job for us and I always welcome hearing you speak!

M. Young

Sent: August 3rd, 2004
Re: Safety Talk Sept. 30 – Construction Co. Group

Monica: Thank you for providing the resources to the public that you do. I believe you ARE making a difference in people’s lives, their way of thinking and giving them food for thought. We can always improve on how we can help others, our families and ourselves. Thanks for being there.

Sincerely,
S.Young

Sent: August 2, 2004

RE: Traffic Safety Presentation Sept. 30, 2004 – Construction Co. Mgrs. Group

Greetings Monica, and thanks again for your work on Friday. I believe you made a big impact on our group and their were several folks who commented positively afterward.

J. Betts

Sent: June 29th, 2004

Hello Ms. Zech,
I am the guy from Helix Water Dist. who asked you today about the collision at Mollision and Main. Thanks again and I truly enjoyed your part of today’s class.

You are an excellent speaker.

Thanks,
D. Martin

Sent: Monday, July 12, 2004 – 11:12 AM

You gave your talks on driver safety and fire safety at SDG&E’s December Safety Standown 03′. You were my favorite speaker that we had all year. I had heard your talk at a different standown when I was a meter reader. I wanted the department I work for now to be exposed to the same information. Our company is very safety conscious.

Your graphic pictures helped to remind us what happens if we don?t follow what we have been taught. Your timely presentation impacted our group, EGIM.

K. Sanchez
Safety Committee
Semprautilities

Following Safety Talk to Friends of Lake Murray, 3/18/04

You should be commended for the mission (on safety) that you have undertaken. I hope that you are. I drove my grandson home from the meeting (to my house) and he told me that I was 5 seconds (following distance) behind my daughter’s car. He said that that was good because 4 seconds would be acceptable.

I saw several people that were at the meeting, at the lake this morning. They loved your talk. Thank you so much. My grandson’s attention never wavered from you. He was riveted on your every word.

Take care and blessings back to you.
B. Cleves

Following Safety Talk to 1st & 2nd Grade Students, 3/1/04

Hi Monica,
The kids loved you! I already had some ask me to write down the web site address, so that they could look up additional info and write to you from home. I loved how engaged they were–it was great! Thanks sooooo much again!!! I’m sure you’ll be hearing from us soon.

Teacher: J. Tyrone

Following Safety Talk To A Teachers Group, 2/7/04

Dear Monica,
I want you to know the depth and value of your message in me. I examined my own life and current habits. I live in Julian so driving to Carlsbad twice a week is tough on me and my family. Looking back (thanks to you), I realize I often drive my little econo-box Toyota Echo way too fast. Living in the country, I am also libel to pass others driving under the influence. My two children are the world to me, and I appreciate your reminder to
stack the safety odds in my favor. Furthermore, I’m going to start discussing seat belt safety with my 3rd and 4th graders, as I’m sure many of their parents lack the education for me to trust that all those kids are always wearing their seat belts. I’m working on a
lesson in my head right now.

Anyway, I want to pas this on and make sure you keep saving lives. We’ll never know if you today saved my life, or one of my family members. In the big picture it’s highly probable.

Please forward this note to the Fire Department or any others who might be interested in the value of your current position. I’m going to pass on your information to our school’s resource center. Our little high school needs your services!

V.Copeland
Julian, CA

Talks To Adults/Parents:

Following Talk to S.D.G. & E. Employee Safety Stand Down 12/11/03

Subject: THANK YOU
Sent: 12/11/03

Thank you for your wonderful presentation at today’s SDG&E EGIM’s Safety Standown. I meant to pause for a moment with you at the end and just say a prayer for your upcoming surgery. And, may you wake up and be free from pain and any long lasting symptoms from your injuries.” (Injuries from a stop sign runner causing a collision 8/29/03)

I was sorry to hear of your father’s death, too, (killed by a DUI driver 6/92) and understood completely how that must have happened, because I was almost hit the same way not too long ago.

J. R. Mitchell
Business Analyst
SempraUtilities.com

Sent: 11/5/03

Dear Monica;
I just want to say, how much I personaly enjoyed your presentation this past Tuesday. I value all the information that you have passed on to me, and will carry it with me for the rest of my life! In addition my children will benefit from the knowledge I have obtained from you.

Once again, THANK YOU!!!

Sincerely K. Burke.

In the last few years I’ve developed a lecture that addresses “new” parents, or soon to be parents in which I talk about being a better “safety role model” for their children, and the mistakes we often make as parents without realizing it. The response from these talks has been over-whelming as shown in the following emails.

Sent: 5/20/03

Dear Monica Zech,

I would like to thank you once more for your presentations. Parents were grateful for the information. It was so much of an impact that a male parent kept his wife awake until 3:00 a.m. talking about what he had learned that night. Another parent, (female) admitted driving under the influence once in a while, not anymore! I wanted you to know that you make a difference and we are very grateful.

Thank you for answering all our questions. Hope to see you in my future parent education classes.

Teresa Verduzco
Grossmont Adult School Instructor
Vista La Mesa/Golden Avenue

Date: 2/11/03
From: L. Bogan
To: El Cajon Fire Chief Ed Jarrell

Monica Zech made a safe driving presentation to my parent education class at Foothills last Thursday evening. (February 6th) I wanted to let you know that she put on a fantastic presentation. I have heard “safe driving” talks dozens of times, but her presentation was different. Her manner isn’t to lecture and cram her beliefs down your throat, she just told us why she doesn’t do certain things. It really made me, and others in the class, realize the risks we take without realizing it (and the horrible consequences of our actions). I’ve caught myself doing “DWS” maneuvers and changed my driving behavior in just a these past few days (why does her distinctive voice keep haunting me when I get behind the wheel?!?). I wanted to pass on to you what a great job Monica is doing in the community.

(DWS-refers to the term “driving while stupid”- this is basically driving less than 100% alert behind the wheel, motorists do a variety of things to impair themselves behind the wheel, it’s not just DUI.)

Date: 5/14/01 (Girl Scout Meeting)
From: S.J.M

Dear Monica,

Your words at our home that evening have echoed through many teenage ears. God knows His Works are through you. According to my friend E, her twin girls will never question her again about “not trusting their friends”. They now agree with her if she asks them not to ride with certain kids. My seven year old is now playing the seatbelt race game, after you mentioned your daughter did this. My eldest daughter has told lots of other people and said that you were totally not boring and the programs at Girl Scouts is looking to coordinate an older girl forum of Hot Topics and ask you to speak.

Thanks,
SWM
El Cajon

Teen Talks:

I love talking to teens, especially in driver education/training courses – it’s always nice when a teen, or their parent, takes a moment to comment about my talks:

From: HC/Valley Center High School
Sent: Thursday, March 06, 2003 3:49 PM

Hi, I would just like to thank you for your presentation in our driver’s ed class yesterday. That class has taught me so much about driving safety, thanks to speakers like you, I’m sure it will help me many times in the future. Thanx again.

From the parent of a teen:

Hi Monica,
Thank you so much for your wonderful talk last Saturday Morning. My son, Trevor, came home just bubbling over telling me all about how really terrific you are! I really think the lessons you taught sank in for him. He was most impressed with your gallery of photos and described nearly all of them in great detail to me.

It’s really great to know there are people like you in this world who can get through to teenagers when “Mom” can’t and inspire them to “do the right thing”.

Thanks again,
J. C.

From another parent:

Both my sons heard you speak at Valley Center High’s Driver’s Ed class. They said you were great. That is as high of a compliment that you can receive from teenagers. Have a great week.

Thanks,
J. Dorschel
Financial Services Professional

Response On Disaster Preparedness Talk:

Sent: 5/12/03

Dear Monica,
I want to thank you loads for the great talk that you gave at our Home Owners Association meeting. It was absolutely perfect, and just exactly what we were hoping for. We are trying to generate enthusiasm for our Emergency Disaster Program within our resident community, and it is slow in coming. We have our share of elderly infirm people who want and expect to be helped, but those who can and will do the helping are few and far between. So we are trying to get the message across that each individual household is responsible for its own emergency food, water, etc. You hit the nail on the head. We all thank you.

Thank you again, Monica. You are such an asset to East County.
S.Sizemore

More Public Response:

Following a guest appearance on a KPBS radio show on “Aggressive Driving”, I mentioned my safety web site. In response, I received quite a few emails from those who miss my traffic reports and thanked me for being so involved with safety. I thank you for your compliments. Your comments were very much appreciated and heartwarming.But the following email touched me deeply….

From: Mr. G. Dixon

Subject: A Monica story
I have a friend who is a Vietnam War veteran , as I am. Some years ago, “Ed” told us that he still got uneasy when he heard a helicopter flying overhead. That surprised me because that sound is still welcome to me; it reminds me of a chopper bringing chow and mail, or taking me to a better place.

An astute therapist at the VA asked “Ed” if he ever heard Monica Zech giving the traffic info on the radio. “Ed” said yes, he liked that smooth, beautiful voice. The therapist said – “So, think of Monica sitting in that chopper flying over head telling us about the traffic.”

I saw “Ed” about a year later and he told me he was a new man, and didn’t worry about helicopter noise anymore. True story.

Give yourself a pat on the back, Monica.

G. Dixon

Web Site Surfing Feedback:

From: Botswana, Africa
Sent: Tuesday, October 01, 2002 5:03 PM
Subject: Enquiry
Hello Ms. Zech,
I read and appreciated your article on photo enforcement and I would like to make a proposal to my local municipal office on this issue. I know this may be a bit out of your field but is it possible that you link me up with a solution provider for this kind of endeavor. Or if you have another solution to my request I would appreciate it.

Hoping for a favorable reply.
Kind regards,
B.N., Botswana

(Yes-I did send him the information he requested ASAP)

Hi Monica,

Just read your post (of safety comments) at ncdsa.com and wanted to say thanks. I never really WANT to put on my helmet and pads but always do, ever since becoming a mom! I can’t stomach the thought of leaving my little guy motherless just for the sake of an equipment-less ride. Plus, I have to do the role model thing now…anyway, just wanted to say I appreciate it. Hope all those guys do.
B. Odanaka, Laguna Beach
www.SkateboardMom.com
“We flip for children’s books!”

From: H.L. Hamilton, PsyD
Program Director, Youth-to-Youth Helpline – 858-581-5885To Monica Zech,More Coments From The Military Bases:Here are a few emails I’ve received following Safety Talks at the MCRD Miramar Base Theater and Camp Pendleton – I had a great time!From: Manuel Moralez III, Air Traffic Control, MCAS Camp Pendleton
“I am one of the civilian employees at Camp Pendleton. I attended your presentation this morning and just wanted to say thanks for the effort you put into helping us stop and really look into safety. I was thinking this was going to be a general presentation of don’t drink and drive and everyone goes home. But towards the end when you made it personal about your life, it re-enforced the first 45 minutes of your presentation. I am amazed of how you were able to re-focus your experience and do good for others. thank you again Monica Zech.”

I want to thank you on behalf of the Youth-to-Youth Helpline for putting our (crisis) information on your website. One of our youth was able to access it by putting in keywords such as “youth and help and helpline”. We appreciate your support in getting the word out to the youth of San Diego County.

From: GySgt David Ward, in charge of organizing the Safety Stand Down
“Monica, I just wanted to thank you for your participation in our operational pause. You were awesome as usual. In fact, I wanted to provide you some feedback.”

From: Col Ken L. Jorgensen:
“From the RSU I’d like to thank you for a superb standdown. Msg was well received! I especially appreciate the brief given by Monica Zech…in my 23 years and numerous standdowns that was the best driver safety brief I have ever seen! Great Job!!!!”

From: Capt. J.C. H

Monica,

I saw your brief today at Camp Pendleton. It was the best I’ve seen in a long while. Thanks for sharing your knowledge and enthusiasm with us.
Semper Fi!

Dear Monica,
I was at the safety stand down at Camp Pendleton today. I thought you did an awesome job! As always though, theres those knuckleheads who will never listen and shrugg it off, and I hope they learn. Have a happy holiday, and God Bless!

Sincerely, Lcpl. L D.

“Thank you everyone!”
Monica Zech

Local & Nationally – Contact Monica Zech for your next Company Conference, Company Safety Briefing or Military Safety Stand-down!

 Monica delivers an eye-opening presentation on what it takes to be safe on our roadways – whether you are driving, riding or walking.   You’ll see why traffic collisions continue to be the number one 9-1-1 call emergency agencies respond to.  Once you’ve seen her presentation, you’ll never view traffic the same way again. This new awareness will help you to avoid the bad habits we develop behind the wheel…and help you avoid a potential collision.

Monica’s lectures have taken her all around San Diego County, up into Los Angeles and Riverside Counties. Most recently Monica was contracted to speak to a high school in Miami, Florida on safe driving, but especially targeting “distracted driving” in the use of cell phones and “texting!”

In arranging for Monica Zech to speak to your group or class, she can target specific issues.  She can speak from 20 minutes - up to 3 hours or more for a company conference. Her dynamic power-point presentation is continually updated with the latest stats, pictures and videos to help drive home the message on safety.

Audiences will see traffic collisions and what causes them through “Monica’s eyes” as a spokesperson for both a police and fire department, and through her eyes as an award winning air-traffic reporter for local television and radio for 18 years in San Diego.

Some of the areas covered in her talks:

• What causes the collisions we respond to – the types of crashes that are most devastating -
• What are the dynamics of a crash that cause injury & death -
• The importance of wearing seat belts and obeying laws made for our safety -
• Being a GOOD safety model for your family -
• Who are you riding with – Remember Precious Cargo!
• The monetary costs of getting a ticket -
• When & why officers give tickets -
• Distracted driving – deadly distractions to avoid -
• Pedestrian Safety -
• Stress & Road Rage – how to curb the rage -
• Aggressive Driving -
• Red Light Runners & Red Light Photo Enforcement – examples
• The Dangers of Rolling through STOP Signs – examples
• A personal impact story of almost being paralyzed by a STOP sign runner in August of 2003 -
• Motorcycle Safety
• Dangers of  Speeding
• Driving Under The Influence ( DUI) of alcohol and other drugs-

Personal Impact Stories:

• Losing her father to a DUI driver in June of 1992
• Almost losing her daughter in February of 2005
• Recent tragic collisions
• Her passion for safety

Note:  Ms. Zech’s talk would be an excellent compliment to other safe driving programs.  See the comment section of this website to see feedback from Monica’s previous talks.

*If you would like to arrange for Monica Zech to speak to your group.  Please call (619) 460-0299 or email your request to:

monicazech@cox.net

*If air travel is involved with your request, airfare and hotel is to be provided in addition to her speakers fee.  Speaker fees are negotiable.

An amazing video on the dangers of texting and driving.  A must see for everyone – especially teens.  It’s against the law in California to text and drive, but you still see people doing this – and we still see the collisions as a result…just like in this video.

Getting Around As Safely As Possible! Be Your Own Traffic Reporter!!!

Since leaving the world of traffic reporting, I rarely hear any traffic reporter give “alternate routes”…or, they’ll say “it’s the usual slowdown” with no detailed information! The following web sites can give you the full picture on traffic.

Please get in the habit of checking these traffic sites before heading out the door, so you’ll know what’s really happening out there – and most important – the areas to avoid. Good planning can save you time – and reduce tragedies! Always buckle-up and follow laws made for our safety!

Note: On this site, you’ll also find where’s the cheapest gas, a good car buying site and other helpful information.

TRAFFIC?

• Traffic Speeds! Click here to see the estimated speeds of traffic on our local freeways: Current San Diego Freeway Speeds – great to check before leaving for your destination or work – be your own traffic reporter! “Know before you go!“
• CHP Traffic Info? Check here for major freeway, and some surface street problems click here: CHP Commute Problem Information Make sure it’s the city you need at the top…but if you’re traveling out of San Diego, you can check other cities as well.
• Once you’re on the road – you can call 5-1-1 for traffic information.
• Caltrans web site to help you calculate your travel time and the best route to take – Travel Time Calculator the icon is in the upper right corner.
• Weather? Latest weather information – click here: San Diego Weather Forecast
• More weather information from the Local Weather from National Weather Service
• Traveling? National Weather Service – - click here: Nat’l Wx Service
• Need Gas? Looking for the cheapest gas?
  Fueltracker
• Looking to buy a fuel efficient vehicle? Check here: Fuel Economic Buying
• Alternate forms of transportation. To reduce congestion and stress, check this site: San Diego Transit Commute Information
• Power Outage Information from S.D.G.& E. and other useful information.
• Problems In Dealing With Stress? At Home, at work, on the road or in life: Stress Management
• Looking for certain health or disaster help organizations, especially following firestorm or earthquake – call 2-1-1.

Earthquake?

• Did we just have an earthquake? Click here: http://quake.usgs.gov/recenteqs/Quakes/quakes.big.html
  • SanDag – San Diego Association of Governments – SAN DAG -This group watches over San Diego’s growth and design.

Are you prepared? Check the CERT web site on www.elcajonfire.com

What’s The Future Planned Growth In San Diego? Check With The Experts Here

What You Need To Know About Alcoholism

Research shows that teens believe that using prescription drugs is
safer than using illegal drugs, because they are medication. They also
think that having and using prescription drugs is legal. These and other
myths may help fuel a recent increase in teen drug abuse. See more
information below.

Teen Prescription Drug Use Fueled by Myths

Experts examining the recent increase in prescription drug abuse by teens believe that the trend is fueled in part by myths and misunderstandings surrounding the drugs in general.
Read more

‘It Won’t Happen to My Teen’

Many parents just do not want to believe that their children will become involved in the use of drugs, prescription or illegal. It’s one of the myths surrounding teen prescription drug abuse: it won’t happen to my child.
Read more

More Bad News for Alcohol-Energy Drinkers

A recent study found that bar-hopping college students who mixed alcohol with energy drinks were more likely to be very intoxicated and more likely to drive while drinking.
Read more

MORE TOPICS

• Latest Drug and Alcohol Headlines
• Support for Families and Friends
• College Drinking Issues
• Binge Drinking
• Teens and Substance Abuse
• Information about Drunk Driving
• Women and Substance Abuse

Attention:  Conference Planners – Company Safety Stand-down Coordinators (Company & Military) – Schools & Colleges - Did you know that  a traffic collision is the number one cause of death from birth to age 44…and it’s our number one 9-1-1 call!  It’s also the number one reason for the loss of an employee!

My lectures provide a perspective most people don’t see – what “we” see as emergency responders.  A perfect compliment to other safe driving programs companies use…but, once you’ve seen my talk, you’ll never look at traffic the same way again. 

You’ll also curb poor driving behaviors that lead to the injury and death we respond to.   It is an eye-opening talk on what it takes to be safe while driving, riding or walking. 

My perspective comes from 18 years as a traffic reporter and collision researcher.  I offer tips on how to reduce your chances of becoming another statistic!   I give you the emergency agency point of view – and some personal perspective.

My talks address aggressive driving, distracted driving (cell phones/texting), dealing with stress and road rage, the dangers of red light running and rolling through STOP signs, plus a hard hitting look on motorcycle safety and of course the dangers of driving under the influence.  Driving safety-injury prevention is my passion!

These these thought provoking life-saving tips will help to improve the driving skills of your employees, military personnel and students.  I also offer an emergency agency point of view of the mistakes most often made – and how to avoid them!”

Contact me for your next safety briefing or safety stand-down, Company Conference, civic group, college or high school assembly, driver education class or traffic school class.

Through my work as a “safety educator” for a police and fire department, and through personal experience – my goal is to make my audiences more aware of what’s really happening on our roadways and how we can reduce the risk factor of having a collision - and increase our chances of survival.  Driving is serious business and I do not sugarcoat the message.   But I can cater my talks to cover your specific message.

If you’d like to contact me please call me at (619) 460-0299.  You can also email me at monicazech@cox.net.

Aside from driving safety I also address ways we can be better prepared for a disaster, such as an earthquake or fire.  Most of the 9-1-1 calls we respond to are “preventable!”

In “driving safety” lectures - I discuss “distracted, impaired and aggressive” driving…and how to deal with stress and road rage. Your own rage, or that of drivers you encounter. I combine government research, my own research and observation of over 30 years in news broadcasting, (18 years of that in traffic reporting, and my 7 1/2 years working directly with El Cajon firefighters & police. I also add real-life “personal experiences” with traffic.

I’m often asked to speak to grade schools on safety, especially for Red Ribbon weeks, DARE graduations and for career/motivational talks.  I also speak to high school seniors prior to proms and graduations – and at “Every 15 Minute” assemblies & retreats.

In safety, my perspective is from the emergency agency point of view – what we see when responding to the scene of a collision, fire or any incident …and some personal perspectives.

Areas addressed in my injury prevention talks:

• Common mistakes made by drivers.
• The dangers of driving aggressively – speeding, stress & rage and impaired driving – from cell phones, texting - to driving under the influence. I also address the deadly problem of Red Light Running and rolling through STOP signs. I explain how the Red Light Photo Enforcement system works.
• What happens when we don’t obey laws made for our safety – from not wearing seat belts, ignoring speed limits and the DUI issues.
• In addition, I offer a “personal” perspective. With over 30 years of driving experience I’ve encountered more than my share of bad drivers that resulted in minor to life threatening injuries. The most serious of my injuries was caused by a “STOP” sign runner. On the DUI subject – I loss my father to a DUI driver in June of 1992…and almost loss my daughter to a DUI driver in February of 2005.  So I know these issues first-hand.
• I also describe the dynamics of a crash – “WHY” we’re injured and killed in crashes. I offer photos and videos that give my audiences a visual example of these dynamics to back-up my data.
• Another important point – “I do not surgarcoat my message.”  I deal with reality – so some of my photos and videos can be powerful, and thought provoking.  I forewarn my audiences when a photo or video may be somewhat dramatic.  Keep in mind, this straight forward approach is much more effective in curbing poor driving behavior that often leads to the injury and death we see in emergency response.

*Of course, for younger audiences, I do not use any graphic images.

*Please take a moment and look at my comments/feedback section and you’ll see the very positive comments I’ve gotten from previous talks.

“My goal is to make my audience aware of the dangers that surround us – so they can make better decisions whether they’re walking, are behind the wheel – or riding as a passenger.”

In driving, my goal is to reduce the risk factors of having a collision.  Going to and from work, or if your job involves driving – my talks can help reduce the collision factor.

• Teen Talks: Traffic collisions are also the number one cause of death for teenagers, but most die as “passengers”.  I show the dynamics of a crash, and photos and videos that demonstrate the mistakes made by drivers everyday!
• Parenting Group Talks: YES – research shows “parents” are the direct role models for their children in most areas of life – “especially in the area of driving.”  Sadly, research has also shown more and more parents are injuring and killing their own children while driving under the influence of alcohol – and/or speeding.  I discuss priorities.  I’ve been able to help parents be more aware of the dangers they’re putting their families in every day! The mixed messages we send as parents.  The biggest question we need to ask ourselves as parents -“does alcohol mean more to you than the safety of our family?”  “Does speeding down the street or highway mean more to you than the safety of the family and/or friends riding with you?”   Using photos and videos and data I show some of the end results of those who forgot about the safety of their family by the way they drive.
• In “fire safety & disaster preparedness”: Through National and local research – and through the eyes of our firefighters, I can discuss the dangers of fire and how we can better protect ourselves, our families and our homes. I can also show photos from recent fires – and why some homes and lives were lost…and how we can better protect ourselves for the future.

Note: See my Safety Lecture Feedback section for comments from previous audiences.

*Note: I do speak outside the El Cajon area.   There are fees charged for Military Safety Stand-downs in the San Diego County area.  For companies , my fees are very reasonable.  My speakers fee is negotiable in working with your budget.  Remember, due to demand, it’s best to please call me well in advance of your event for better availability.

Among some of the groups I speak to:
Schools (all grade levels)
Life Skills Classes
Colleges
Driver education/training courses
Parenting Groups – (one of my favorites in developing better safety role models)
Company Safety Meetings/Briefings
Company Conferences
Major Safety Conferences
Military Base Safety Stand-downs
Traffic School
Career Talks – Motivational and for those interested in careers in EMS-Emergency Medical Services

Guest speaker for:
“Every 15 Minutes” presentations or retreats
“Red Ribbon Week”
“DARE” and other safety assemblies

If you’d like to arrange for me to speak to your group – please call me at (619) 460-0299 or send an e-mail request to  monicazech@cox.net

A new website that offers tips on Safe Driving for teens and stresses the importance of “speaking up” when you’re a passenger in a car and the driver is driving recklessly.   Once on this website  check out their Safe driving tip section.  Also check the “Safety Videos” section on my website.  Don’t be afraid to “speak up!”

“Speak Up Or Else”:

Note: The number one cause of death for a teen is a traffic collision – most die as passengers – when they don’t speak up!

Be safe!