Jensen noted, "Members of the youth council were very committed to this project, and we were really pleased to hear of the State approval. The goal of the film was to educate our peers, as well as have it approved for statewide driver's ed curriculum. It's a great accomplishment for the U BOOZE U LOOZE campaign, and we hope to get the message and the film out to more and more people."

Filming of SMASHED was funded through a grant LYAC received from the Maine Bureau of Highway Safety with volunteer assistance of local MADDOG Entertainment and many community individuals/organizations. Actually filming was done on August 23 and 24, 2007, with a standing-room-only October 29, 2007, premiere at Auburn Flagship Cinema.

Eric Bellavance, Manager of the State's Driver Education Program, stated when approving SMASHED, "Congratulations on your efforts to educate your peers of the dangers of drinking and driving or riding with someone who has been drinking. I'm sure many parents can learn a lesson as well by making sure they know where their son or daughter is when they go out for an evening of fun. Hopefully the emotion expressed in this film will cause people, young and old, to think about their choices. The tragedy of losing a young person to any accident, but especially one involving alcohol, has many painful and lasting effects on the people who are left behind, and your film does a good job bringing this to light."

During the approval process, Bellavance and members of his staff reviewed the film, and members of the youth council held a "test market" showing with area health teachers/others who interact with youth. Among those attending the latter showing was Vicky Wiegman, Substance Abuse Counselor at Lewiston High School. Wiegman stated, "I really admire the hard work of LYAC. Their concern for their peers is really invaluable . . . (SMASHED) provides some good impetus for conversation on teen drinking and resulting consequences."

Upon Jensen's announcement last evening, Lewiston City Council President Renee Bernier led the City Council and members of the audience in a standing ovation.

For further information: Luke Jensen, Chair - Lewiston Youth Advisory Council, City of Lewiston, 513-3121, X3205, TTY/TDD: 513-3007