On Wednesday, November 18^th, Dudley Police Chief Steven Wojnar held a senior driving program at the Joshua Place Apartments in Dudley.  Chief Wojnar asked students from the Nichols College Criminal Justice Club to assist the residents with the computer based driving self-test called “Roadwise Review.”  This is a driver assessment program, specially geared toward seniors.  It was designed by AAA to provide senior drivers with a method of reviewing driving skills and functions in a discreet and personal manner.  It can be used on any computer which is capable of accepting the software (a CD).  A partner is required to operate the controls during some of the exercises where the subject is required to be some distance from the computer.  The program has identified many basic recognition skills which are needed to operate a vehicle safely.  Some of the areas of focus include low light recognition, peripheral vision, flexibility, and many more.  The test is easy to operate and the instructions are well presented.

The full program took approximately 20 minutes to complete.  When finished, a report was generated detailing the person’s performance.  Suggestions and recommendations are provided for their benefit.

The college students brought the necessary computer equipment to Joshua Place and assisted the people who participated.  A total of sixteen residents took the test.  They found the process to be both informative and fun. Copies of this driving program for personal use can be found at the local AAA office located on South Main Street in Webster at the intersection of Lake Street.  Programs such as “Roadwise Review” allow people to monitor their own driving habits and make the necessary adjustments to provide them with a longer and safer future behind the wheel.         

In addition to many of the local residents, several local officials were on hand to see this program in action, including Dudley Town Administrator Peter Jankowski, Webster Police Chief Timothy Bent, and Nichols College Criminal Justice Program Chair Kimberly Charbonneau. 

Chief Wojnar wishes to thank the members of the Nichols Criminal Justice Club, Joshua Place Director Mrs. Lucille Allard, and everyone who participated for making this event a success.

Chief Wojnar (seated front) and Webster Chief Timothy Bent talk with some of the Joshua Residents.  Left to right: Gloria Latino, Cathy Berry, Irene Beresik. 

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