On March 2, 2010 Officer Gina Patterson had the privilege to participate in the Read Across America at Cornelius Elementary School.  Read Across America is an annual event developed by The National Education Association.  Now in its 12^th year, the event encourages children and parents to pick up their favorite books and read. The day is also special because it is the birthday of beloved children’s author Dr. Seuss.

Nationwide, half of all Americans use cell phones while operating a motor vehicle. Studies have found that using cell phones while operating a motor vehicle is just as dangerous as driving while intoxicated. The risk associated with using a cell phone while operating a motor vehicle has even led to some states such as New York and Connecticut to pass laws banning cell phone use while driving. In North Carolina there currently is a law in place that bans drivers under the age of 18 from operating a cell phone while driving. Recently, the General Assembly passed a new law that prohibits drivers from text messaging while operating a motor vehicle.