DOT 129-07
Contact: Brian Turmail
Tel.: (202) 366-4570
Tuesday, December 18, 2006

Transportation Secretary Peters Certifies Santa As Safe to Operate “Holly Davidson” Motorcycle to Deliver Toys to Good Little Girls and Boys

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Transportation Secretary Mary E. Peters today certified Santa Claus as safe to operate his shiny new red motorcycle, which he will use instead of his sleigh to make Christmas Eve deliveries this year.

“Rudolph may have been disappointed by the news, but avid motorcycle riders like me are thrilled,” Secretary Peters said. “There is nothing more rewarding than sharing my love of riding with someone who usually does the giving.”

Secretary Peters joined several trainers from an area motorcycle safety school to run Santa through the paces and ensure he will be safe on his Christmas Eve ride. At the completion of the course, the Secretary certified that Santa had learned proper control of his motorcycle and how to react to traffic situations. He is even prepared with his red DOT-certified helmet, she said.

Secretary Peters also thanked Mrs. Claus for getting Santa’s red riding gear ready after some helpful hints from the Motorcycle Safety Foundation to make sure he had all the proper apparel. And since it is always safer to ride with others, Santa has picked a team of certified elves, the Elves Angels, to ride alongside him during his Dec. 24 journey, she said.

“He’s makin’ a list and checkin’ it twice, and soon Santa Claus will be riding to town. So please remember to share the open road, not only with Santa but with all motorcycle riders,” Secretary Peters said.

Editor’s note: A photo of the event is available at: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20071218/SANTA

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