Students distribute designated-driver mugs

Five Newark Main Street establishments that serve liquor are participating in a novel Designated Driver Program designed by junior Jillian Crosby, a nutrition and biology education major from near Cherry Hill, N.J.

Crosby encouraged the establishments to advertise on a mug that entitles the designated driver in a group of student partiers to free, unlimited soda at participating establishments.

The idea originated in the Nutrition and Dietetics Club when members were looking for a way to promote healthier lifestyles on campus.

The 20-ounce plastic mugs, which feature the Blue Hen mascot YoUDee holding a mug in one hand and keys in the other, have been distributed free to the establishments and to UD students who are 21 or over.

"We had 3,500 mugs made," Crosby said. "We gave some to the Senior Class to use at its tailgate; we'll give some out at Homecoming; and we'll give some out at an upcoming alcohol-awareness program planned in Christiana Towers.

"The plan is to give them to people who will use them. We also plan to give some out in the community and to commuters who would be driving to campus events," Crosby said.

It's been a long and complex project for Crosby, but one that has been well worth the long hours.

"When friends tell me they've seen students using the mug in some of the places on Main Street, it's really exciting," she said.

Participating restaurants are Brickyard Tavern & Grill, East End Cafe, Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant, Klondike Kate's and the Stone Balloon.

In addition to the Nutrition and Dietetics Club, sponsors include the Resident Student Association, Voices for 8 Campus Concerns and the New Castle County Community Partnership.

-Beth Thomas