By Samantha Sanburn | Photo by Richard Hernandez

San Antonio passed a city ordinance in 2010 stating that no more texting and driving would be tolerated. Yet, people continue to do it. So, FBLA and PALS are teaming up to make a difference. There are tables in the cafeteria at all lunches that are handing out foam rings with the phrase “Don’t mess with texting.” Organizers hope it’s a fun way to remind students not to text and drive.

“We got in touch with WOAI and they donated 400 little foam bands with ‘Don’t mess with texting’ on them,” PALs sponsor, Gretchen Barrera said.

Students are to sign a pledge saying that they will not text and drive and wear the ring on their thumb. To add a twist, the organizations had the students sign the pledge with their thumb prints. Organizers hope that when students go to text while behind the wheel, they will see the phrase “Don’t mess with texting” and put the phone away.

“I think texting and driving is scary. People are more focused on their phone than on the road,” senior Abbey Hahnel said, “Swerving on the road is scary.”

Doing this project brings awareness to the community about the dangers of texting and driving. According to the American Automobile Association, nearly 50 percent of teens admit to texting while driving. This statistic is why FBLA and PALs have come together to shine light on the issue at hand.

“We really hope people will stop and think before they text and drive,” Barrera said.