Sophomore John Micciche placed first in his category and best overall PSA in the 14th Annual Distracted Driving Public Service Announcement Contest.
A powerful 30-second public service announcement that delivered a memorable message about the perils of distracted driving earned Washington Township High School sophomore John Micciche both first place in his category and best overall PSA in the 14th annual Distracted Driving Public Service Announcement Contest. The event is hosted by the Gloucester County Highway Task Force. Awards were distributed on May 17.
The contest yielded 104 entries from eight local high schools in five categories, including distracted driving, drowsy driving, driving under the influence, aggressive driving and seatbelt usage. WTHS senior Michelle Salamoni received an honorable mention for her PSA “The right time and place” in the distracted driving category.
Micciche’s PSA entitled “The real killer,” shows a teenage girl who is being chased through a wooded area by a knife-wielding, hockey-masked psychopath. While fleeing from the woods, she runs into the path of an oncoming car seeking help. The driver, however, is texting and does not see her. He hits her with his vehicle and causes her death. Micciche’s PSA ends with this tag: “Texting and driving is the real killer. Drive to stay alive.”
“We appreciate the important message these students made regarding driving safely,” said Gloucester County Prosecutor Sean F. Dalton. “Through their collective efforts, they are helping to make our roadways safer.”
For his efforts, Micciche won $700 in Newfield Bank gift cards, a $100 Visa gift card, four Phillies tickets, a Pasta Pomodoro restaurant gift card and tickets for Big Swing mini-golf.
