Beyond Crooksville 🇺🇸

The Sobering Reality: 300,000 Drunk Drivers on U.S. Roads Every Day

Every day in America, staggering numbers of lives are lost due to various causes: 68 homicides, 132 suicides, 275 drug overdoses, 110 car crashes, 11 drownings, and 40 firearm-related deaths. Among these, drunk driving plays a tragic role, contributing to 37 deaths per day.

The Numbers Behind Drunk Driving

Statistically, 300,000 people drive drunk every single day in the United States. This doesn’t necessarily mean the same 300,000 individuals, but rather that, on any given day, an estimated 300,000 intoxicated drivers are on the road. Out of those, an average of 80 are caught by law enforcement, meaning the vast majority make it home without consequence.

What’s particularly interesting is the ratio of arrests to fatalities. Based on the numbers:

• A drunk driver is twice as likely to get arrested as they are to kill someone while driving.

• Yet, despite law enforcement efforts, the overwhelming majority of drunk drivers—299,920 per day, to be exact—get away with it.

A System That Catches Only a Fraction

To be clear, this is not an argument for changing DUI laws or downplaying the dangers of drunk driving. The statistics speak for themselves—driving under the influence remains one of the most reckless decisions a person can make. However, the data highlights an uncomfortable reality: the sheer number of people who take this risk and make it home safely.

It’s easy to assume that a DUI arrest is a rare occurrence, but when compared to the 300,000 daily offenses, it’s clear that enforcement only scratches the surface. For every one person caught, nearly 3,750 go undetected.

The Takeaway

Drunk driving remains a major public safety issue, but these numbers prompt an interesting question: If so many people drive drunk and make it home, does this lead some to believe they can “get away with it” and continue the behavior? The data suggests that, until they are caught or involved in a crash, many do.

The reality is that every drunk driver who makes it home safely was simply lucky that day. But luck always runs out. Whether it’s a DUI arrest or a tragic accident, the odds eventually catch up.

The best way to avoid being part of these statistics? Don’t drive drunk. Period.

Know the Snow Emergency Levels

With winter on the way, the Perry County Sheriffs Office wants to remind everyone about snow emergency levels and what they mean for your safety:

 Level 1: Roads may be slippery due to snow or ice. Drive carefully.

Level 2: Roads are dangerous with heavy snow, drifting, or ice. Only drive if absolutely necessary.

Level 3: Roads are closed to non-emergency vehicles. Driving is not allowed, and violators may face penalties.

For your safety, stay informed by checking our Facebook page and the PCSO App for updates.

A person can lose or have their Social Security benefits reduced in several ways, depending on the type of benefits they receive. Here are some key scenarios:

1. Earning Too Much Before Full Retirement Age

• If you claim Social Security retirement benefits before reaching full retirement age (FRA) and continue to work, your benefits may be temporarily reduced if your earnings exceed the annual limit.

• In 2024, the limit is $22,320 before FRA, and for every $2 earned over that limit, $1 is withheld.

• Once you reach FRA, benefits are recalculated, and you’ll receive higher payments to make up for prior reductions.

2. Owing Certain Debts

• While Social Security is protected from most creditors, the government can garnish benefits for:

• Unpaid federal taxes (IRS can take a portion)

• Defaulted federal student loans

• Unpaid child support or alimony

• Certain criminal restitution payments

3. Receiving Disability Benefits While Working Too Much

• If you receive Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you can only earn up to $1,550/month (2024 limit for non-blind individuals) before benefits stop.

• The “trial work period” allows you to test working for 9 months before benefits end.

4. Being Incarcerated

• If you go to jail or prison for more than 30 consecutive days, your retirement or disability benefits are suspended.

• Benefits can restart the month after release.

5. Leaving the Country for Too Long

• U.S. citizens can generally collect Social Security abroad, but some non-citizens may lose benefits if they leave the U.S. for more than six months unless their home country has a Social Security agreement with the U.S.

6. Deportation

• Non-citizens deported from the U.S. lose their Social Security benefits permanently.

7. Falsifying Information or Committing Fraud

• If the Social Security Administration (SSA) finds that someone obtained benefits fraudulently (e.g., lying about a disability), they can terminate benefits and demand repayment.

Finding affordable apartments in Perry County, Ohio, involves leveraging various resources and strategies to identify options that fit your budget and needs. Heres a comprehensive guide to assist you in your search:

1. Explore Online Rental Platforms

Several reputable websites list available rentals in Perry County:

Zillow: Offers a range of rental properties with detailed filters to narrow down your search.

Trulia: Provides listings with insights into neighborhoods, schools, and local amenities.

Realtor.com: Features comprehensive listings of apartments and houses for rent in the area.

Apartments.com: Allows you to view available apartments with detailed information and photos.

2. Consider Low-Income Housing Options

If you qualify for low-income housing, several resources can assist:

Perry Metropolitan Housing Authority (PMHA): Provides safe, sanitary, affordable, and fair housing to low-income individuals and families. They offer Public Housing and Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers.

LowIncomeHousing.us: Lists low-income apartments in Perry County, including properties with HUD subsidies and public housing options.

3. Utilize Local Community Resources

Engaging with local communities can lead to discovering rental opportunities not listed on major platforms:

Local Newspapers and Bulletin Boards: Check community centers, libraries, and local newspapers for rental listings.

Word of Mouth: Inform friends, family, and colleagues that youre searching for an apartment; they might know of available rentals.

4. Be Flexible with Your Search Criteria

Expanding your search parameters can help you find more affordable options:

Nearby Areas: Consider looking in neighboring towns or communities within Perry County.

Amenities: Be open to compromising on certain amenities to reduce rent costs.

5. Act Quickly and Be Prepared

Affordable apartments can be in high demand:

Stay Updated: Regularly check listings and set up alerts on rental platforms.

Application Materials: Have your rental application, references, and proof of income ready to submit promptly.

By utilizing these resources and strategies, you can increase your chances of finding an affordable apartment in Perry County, Ohio, that meets your needs.

Jacob found a used 1999 Dodge Durango on Facebook Marketplace that he wanted to buy for parts. He sent the link to his father, David. When David got off work, he clicked the link and reviewed the Durango. He then asked Jacob, Are you seriously considering buying this? It's in North Carolina. How would we transport it?

Jacob responded, aren't we able to transport it ourselves to save money?

David asked, Whats your budget? I'll look into it.

After reviewing the budget that Jacob had for the trip to North Carolina and the purchase of the broken-down Durango, David told his son, Let me make some phone calls, and I'll get back to you.

Later that day, David called U-Haul and asked what it would cost to rent a trailer to haul the Durango from North Carolina to Ohio. The price was reasonable, but there was a problem—Davids truck had recently broken down, and Jacob didnt have a truck. So, David asked the U-Haul representative how much it would cost to rent both a truck and a trailer for the trip. The representative told him it would be roughly $850 plus fuel and, since all U-Haul vehicles are gas-powered, they could expect anywhere from 5 to 10 miles per gallon.

After hearing that price, David contacted Penske and asked the same question: What would it cost to rent a truck and trailer to haul an SUV from North Carolina to Ohio? The Penske representative said, $480 will get you unlimited miles as long as you return the truck to Marietta, Ohio. However, if you drop it off at our Zanesville branch, it will cost you $950. Our trucks run on diesel, which gives you more power and better fuel mileage.

After discussing their options, David and Jacob decided to go with Penske.

Planning the Trip

David and Jacob put together a plan to make the trip go smoothly. David packed his car with tools, chains, straps, jumper cables, air hoses, ramps, and multiple car jacks, while Jacob gathered snacks and drinks.

They agreed to leave early in the morning, meet at a designated spot, and travel together.

The Trip

David drove down to North Carolina, a six-hour drive, while Jacob rode in the passenger seat. On the way, they discussed how they would load the broken-down SUV onto the trailer. David was confident in their plan, as he had previous experience loading inoperable vehicles onto trailers.

After about six and a half hours, they arrived and inspected the Durango. After looking it over inside and out, they agreed on a purchase price with the seller. They signed a bill of sale and title and paid in cash.

With the title and receipt in hand, David and Jacob informed the seller that they would head to the local truck rental agency, pick up the truck and trailer, and return shortly.

Dealing with Penske

Upon arriving at the Penske location and despite having planned everything in advanced, they discovered that the employee had forgotten to prepare the truck and trailer together. The representative apologized, offered them a discount, and told David, You can take this 26-foot box truck and drive it 30 miles to our main facility. They will have your trailer ready there.

Though frustrated, David and Jacob agreed.

David inspected the box truck, took multiple photos, started it up, and hit the road, with Jacob following in their car. Upon arriving at the main Penske facility, the staff there were more organized and quickly attached the trailer to the truck.

They then drove 45 minutes back to the sellers house to pick up the Durango.

Loading the Vehicle

By the time they arrived, it was getting dark, adding to the stress of loading the SUV onto the trailer.

They parked the truck and trailer in a secure position, pulled out their tools and battery-operated lights, and got to work. Despite the challenges, they had little trouble loading the Durango onto the trailer. Once it was securely strapped in, they packed up their tools and prepared for the journey back to Ohio.

Now around 7 to 8 PM, they stopped at a nearby truck stop, grabbed snacks and drinks, and double-checked the straps securing the Durango. After topping off the fuel, they hit the road.

An Unexpected Setback

A few hours into the trip, David checked in with Jacob to see how he was holding up. Jacob assured him he was fine.

However, at around 3 AM, David received a phone call from Jacob.

Dad, I fell asleep at the wheel. I crashed into a concrete divider and have a flat tire on the side of the interstate.

David quickly turned the truck around and drove 15 minutes back to Jacobs location.

By the time David arrived, Jacob had already changed the tire with a spare ”but the spare had very little air in it. They drove slowly with hazard lights on until they reached the next exit with a truck stop.

At 4 AM, they attempted to fill the tire with air, only to realize it had already started to shred. David contacted multiple 24-hour tire services, but none were actually open.

With no other options, they decided to leave the car at the truck stop and continue their journey to Ohio.

Returning the Penske Truck

Once they made it back to Crooksville, Ohio, they dropped the Durango off at a mechanics garage. Then, they returned to Davids house, loaded Jacobs pickup truck onto the trailer, and drove to Marietta to return the Penske truck.

The Penske representative verified the truck was in good condition, confirmed the fuel tank was full, and processed the return with no extra fees.

David and Jacob then drove back to West Virginia in the pickup truck to retrieve Jacobs car. Before leaving home, they had grabbed a spare tire for the Honda so that they could replace the shredded tire upon arrival.

They reached the truck stop around 9:30 to 10 AM, changed the tire, and finally headed home.

Final Thoughts

Jacob and David arrived safely back in Crooksville, driving separate vehicles.

Once the trip was over, they calculated the fuel efficiency of the Penske truck. It averaged 10 miles per gallon a pleasant surprise, considering they had hauled a vehicle through the mountains of North Carolina and West Virginia.

Note: Names in this story have been changed for privacy. Several parts of this story were verified by Crooksville News.

In Ohio, hunting seasons vary depending on the species and the specific regulations set by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR). Here are some key things to know for February and March:

Hunting Seasons (Feb–Mar 2025)

1. Coyote & Feral Swine – Open year-round, no bag limit.

2. Squirrel & Ruffed Grouse – Closed as of January 31.

3. Rabbit – Season ends on February 28.

4. Furbearer Trapping (Beaver, Otter, Mink, Muskrat, etc.) – Usually closes February 29, but check ODNR for specific counties.

5. Spring Turkey (Youth & Regular) – Begins in April, so prep work starts in March.

Things to Keep in Mind

• Licensing & Permits – Ensure you have the correct hunting license and permits for your target species.

• Private vs. Public Land – Landowner permission is required for private land hunting.

• Weapon Regulations – Firearms, archery, and trapping gear must meet ODNR specifications.

• Hunter Orange Requirement – If hunting coyote during deer gun seasons, hunter orange is required.

• Bag Limits – Strictly follow daily and season bag limits, especially for rabbits.

• Weather Considerations – February and March can be unpredictable, so dress appropriately for cold or wet conditions.

ODNR regulations for 2025

Certainly! Here’s an overview of Ohio’s hunting seasons and regulations for February and March 2025:

Hunting Seasons in February and March 2025

1. White-Tailed Deer

• Archery Season: September 28, 2024 – February 2, 2025.  

2. Rabbit

• Season: Closes on February 28, 2025.  

3. Furbearer Trapping

• Beaver and Otter: Season ends on February 29, 2025.  

4. Coyote and Feral Swine

• Season: Open year-round with no bag limit.  

5. Spring Wild Turkey

• Youth Season: April 19–20, 2025.

• Regular Season:

• South Zone: April 21 – May 18, 2025.

• Northeast Zone: May 3 – June 1, 2025.  

Key Regulations and Considerations

• Licenses and Permits: Ensure you possess a valid Ohio hunting license and any necessary permits for the species you’re targeting.  

• Hunting Hours: Typically, hunting is permitted from 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset. However, specific seasons may have varied hours.  

• Bag Limits: Adhere to daily and seasonal bag limits for each species. For instance, the daily bag limit for rabbits is four.  

• Hunter Orange Requirement: During firearm deer seasons, hunters pursuing any species (except waterfowl) must wear a vest, coat, jacket, or coveralls that are either solid hunter orange or camouflage hunter orange.  

• Public vs. Private Land: Hunting regulations can differ between public and private lands. Always obtain permission before hunting on private property and be aware of specific rules governing public hunting areas.  

• Species-Specific Regulations: Some species, like coyotes and feral swine, have fewer restrictions, but it’s essential to stay updated on any local ordinances or specific area regulations.  

For comprehensive and up-to-date information, refer to the Ohio Hunting and Trapping Regulations 2024-2025 provided by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources.

Always prioritize safety and ethical hunting practices.

If you suspect someone is fraudulently receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits while working and not reporting it, you can report it to the Social Security Administration (SSA) Office of the Inspector General (OIG).

Ways to Report Social Security Fraud:

1. Online:

• Submit a report through the SSA OIG’s fraud reporting website:

https://oig.ssa.gov

2. Phone:

• Call the Social Security Fraud Hotline at 1-800-269-0271 (TTY: 1-866-501-2101)

• Available Monday–Friday, 10 AM–4 PM Eastern Time

3. Mail:

• Social Security Fraud Hotline

P.O. Box 17768

Baltimore, MD 21235

4. Local SSA Office:

• You can also visit or call your local Social Security office to report fraud. Find your nearest office here:

https://secure.ssa.gov/ICON/main.jsp

What Information to Provide:

• The person’s full name and any known aliases

• Their date of birth or approximate age

• Address, phone number, or place of employment (if known)

• A detailed explanation of the suspected fraud (e.g., working under the table, misreporting income)

• Any supporting documents, if available

Reports can be made anonymously, but providing your contact information can help the investigation. SSA takes fraud seriously, and penalties for abuse can include repayment of benefits, fines, and even criminal charges.

Life is full of decisions, each shaping the path ahead. Some choices seem small in the moment but compound over time, defining who we are and what we become. Wisdom is not merely about knowing what is right but understanding the long-term effects of our actions.

Consider these statements:

 Thankfully, I smoke cigarettes.

 I always eat until I cant walk.

 I always maxed out my credit cards.

 I always make it home from the bar when I drive.

 I always trust the doctors. They went to college.

 I always play the lottery. I’m really close to winning.

 I dont need to save money. Im going to live with Social Security when I get old.

At first glance, these might seem like comforting beliefs that shield us from reality. Each reflects a reliance on luck, habit, or blind faith rather than careful thought and planning. The illusion of control often masks the truth: consequences are inevitable, and time will call our bluffs.

Some choices, particularly those that shape others, carry even greater weight:

 I should’ve beat my kids more. I think they would have done better.

He is a good person. He goes to church.

Discipline and morality are not measured by outward appearances or unchecked assumptions. True wisdom requires reflection, patience, and accountability not just rigid adherence to past beliefs or external validations.

And then theres the subtle, dangerous trap of self-deception:

 I know I am a good driver. I get pulled over all the time.

 I know Im a good person. My rap sheet aint that long.

 I am not that bad of a person just because I have to register with the Sheriff every couple of months.

To see oneself clearly is one of the hardest tasks. We excuse, we justify, we minimize but at what cost? A life lived in self-delusion may feel comfortable, but it does not lead to growth or wisdom.

Finally, the most telling statement of all:

 I never do my own research, and I never compare notes.

There is no greater danger than choosing ignorance. Wisdom does not come from blindly accepting what we are told or what we wish to be true. It comes from seeking knowledge, questioning assumptions, and being willing to change when faced with truth.

A wise person does not merely hope for a better life—they build it with intention, self-awareness, and responsibility. The past cannot be undone, but the future is always unwritten. The question is: will you write it with wisdom, or will you let fate decide?