VSI Holdings 'Edutainment' Announces DaimlerChrysler Sponsorship
22 January 1999
VSI Holdings 'Edutainment' Division Announces DaimlerChrysler Sponsorship For 1999 Neon Drunk Driving Simulator TourBLOOMFIELD HILLS, Mich., Jan. 21 -- Advanced Animations (AAI), the "edutainment" (educational entertainment) subsidiary of VSI Holdings' (Amex: VIS) has received a sponsorship commitment by DaimlerChrysler for the 1999 Neon Drunk Driving Simulator Tour. This is the eleventh year of the program produced by Advanced Animations and managed by AAI's touring division Advanced Exhibits. Three Neon Drunk Driving Simulators travel to high schools across the U.S. demonstrating to students the dangers of drinking and driving. Since 1988, the program has appeared in more than 3,000 locations. More than 900,000 students have participated directly in the program as either driver or passenger and a total of three million students have been event spectators. "We're proud to have DaimlerChrysler once again support this important educational safety program. It is crucial that this program continue each year to have a meaningful impact on teens across the country," said Advanced Animations general manager Terry Sparks. The simulators are Dodge and Plymouth Neons modified with an on-board computer that can be programmed to delay the car's steering and braking response time, simulating the slowed physical and mental response abilities of a driver under the influence of alcohol. Students always are accompanied by an Advanced Animations' technical support person during their driving experience. "Almost 1,500 people died on Michigan highways alone last year from accidents related to drunk driving," said Sue Cischke, vice president of safety affairs at DaimlerChrysler. "It is our hope that the lifesaving message of the Neon Drunk Driving Simulator will remain with the participants and spectators throughout their lives." The program visits cities across the country and appears primarily at high schools. Each year, the three touring Simulators operate for thirty-two weeks, averaging a total of 12 schools per week. Two simulators are sponsored locally by Chrysler/Dodge/Plymouth Dealers. One of the tours is made available for rental to government groups, corporations and safety organizations. Due to the programs' importance and popularity, there is a two to three year waiting list for the Simulator in some areas. VSI Holdings is a full-service supplier utilizing technology and systems for marketing initiatives, Internet communications, education, training and edutainment. The company offers imaginative and integrated solutions through its' five wholly-owned subsidiaries and employs 1,025 people. Information about VSI Holdings is available on the company's Web site at http://www.vsiholdings.com.
