By Maya Minwary and Kimiko L. Martinez
Staff Writer and Assistant News Editor
Students may soon have a backup ride if they find themselves intoxicated at a local location thanks to senate approval of the Safe Rides designated driver program.
Although the Student Government Association meeting last Wednesday was shorter than usual due to Homecoming festivities, SGA covered many topics and the senate voted unanimously to approve the Safe Rides program.
Debate over the Safe Rides program has been a hot topic at recent SGA meetings. After an hour-long debate on Jan. 30, the proposal was withdrawn at the last minute due to SGA legalities.
The designated driver program is still in process, and more finalized information will be coming in at future SGA meetings, according to SGA President Andrea Krug.
But while details still need to be worked out, enthusiasm and support for the program is already apparent.
“We’re excited about the program,” SGA secretary Delite Young said. “It will provide a safe way for students to get home after a party.”
As usual, students and SGA members brought forth several issues.
The upcoming Project Serve program, which will occur over Spring Break, was a topic that brought interest among many Pepperdine students. More than 100 students have responded to the opportunity of going to Washington, D.C., Philadelphia, New York, Los Angeles or San Felipe, Mexico to reach out into communities in need. Many still plan to apply.
During the trip, students will take part in various community service projects ranging from renovating a building near New York City’s Ground Zero to serving food to the homeless in downtown Los Angeles.
“I’ve been waiting for an opportunity like this to serve back my community,” freshman Lauren Perry said. Perry will visit the Los Angeles site in a couple of weeks during Spring Break.
SGA members also discussed the junior club event, a school-wide survey that allows students to express their likes and dislikes about the school and the ever-popular issue of getting a self-contained car wash on campus.
The SGA meets every Wednesday in the Fireside Room and its meetings are open to the public.
Students are invited to attend and comment on pertinent issues on the agenda.
February 14, 2002