On March 4, 2008, the Department of Highway Safety & Motor Vehicles’ Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) and Division of Driver Licenses (DDL) participated in Mater Academy Charter School’s Annual Safety Day in Hialeah Gardens. Mr. Alex Gonzalez, President of DHSMV’s advisory board, served as the Master of Ceremonies for a special presentation to senior class members of the school about the joys and dangers of having a driver license.

DDL Director Sandra Lambert explained to the students that although the day a young person gets his or her driver’s license may be one of the happiest days of their lives, it is a stressful day for many parents because they realize the responsibility that goes along with driving. On stage to address the crowd of young people, were several local mayors and city commissioners from the area.

After listening to important messages delivered by guest speakers in the school auditorium, students went outdoors to check out the safety displays and participate in several interactive activities including: watching Trooper Conya Bassett demonstrate seat belt safety using one of FHP’s rollover simulators; putting on DUI simulation goggles, or taking a ride on one of the Patrol’s seat belt convincers.

Special thanks to: Troop L’s Occupant Protection Specialist Trooper Conya Bassett for delivering and operating the rollover simulator, Troop L’s Auxiliary for helping with traffic control and supporting the event, and Broward County’s Public Affairs Officer, Mark Wysocky, for bringing the seat belt convincer. Good job Highway Safety Team!

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