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| Written by PI Editorial Staff | |
| Saturday, 20 October 2007 | |
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Accident a reminder of dangerous roads, Patterson’s resilience The death of Patterson High School senior Korre Mitchell in a car wreck last weekend marks a tragic legacy for West Side roadways, which have had more than their fair share of fatal accidents. The rural roads connecting the West Side to cities with “things to do,” such as Turlock, Modesto and Tracy, are dotted with memorial crosses and signs, reminders of the dangerous area in which we live. Those roadways are poorly lit, often lulling tired drivers to sleep at night, and they often have only two lanes and high speed limits, increasing the likelihood of dangerous collisions. It’s unlikely that changes will be made to these roadways anytime soon, so local residents need to be on their guard and drive defensively. Seat belts are a must, and drunken driving is never permissible. Sleepy drivers should pull over in a safe, well-lit location. The biannual “Every 15 Minutes” program offered at Patterson High School often brings home the message of the treacherous nature of driving and that no one is invincible. Perhaps, if the funding existed, it would be good for high school sophomores to participate as well as juniors and seniors, as many sophomores are already starting to get their licenses. Meanwhile, this tragedy should serve as a reminder for everyone to take time to express love and appreciation for friends and family, as life is fragile. It has been amazing to witness the notes left at a memorial for Mitchell at West Main Street and Jennings Road, where a few students wrote about how much she meant to them. Family and friends said this week that the community response has been overwhelming, with lots of folks stopping by, dropping off flowers and helping with food and household tasks. It’s a testament to the fact that Patterson, despite its problems, remains a community where people truly care for one another. Hopefully, that legacy will live on, just as Mitchell’s legacy lives on, shining in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.
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