22News Distributes XtheTXT Thumb Bands

(WWLP) - On Tuesday, September 20th, WWLP-22News will begin distributing free “XtheTXT” thumb bands to remind drivers not to text while driving. A limited supply of the thumb bands will be available at all O’Connell’s Convenience Plus locations throughout western Massachusetts.

WWLP Vice President and General Manager Bill Pepin said, “Far too often, our news reports show the tragic consequences of distracted driving, and when you’re texting behind the wheel, you are highly distracted. These thumb bands will provide a visual reminder that will hopefully save lives.”

Last fall, Massachusetts banned texting while driving. However, many drivers currently ignore the law. In an effort to help raise awareness about the dangers of texting behind the wheel, 22News launched the “XtheTXT” campaign in August. As part of that effort, a web page on WWLP.com is devoted to this community awareness campaign. On the page, visitors can download a pledge not to text while driving, access news stories, interactives, and information about texting while driving. A list of all the O’Connell’s Convenience Plus locations for thumb band distribution is also available.

Drivers caught texting in Massachusetts while driving could face fines ranging from $100 for a first offense and up to $500 dollars for repeat offenses.

The 22News XtheTXT campaign is sponsored by Jerry Rome Nissan , Interstate Towing , O’Connell’s Convenience Plus , and Country Bank .

WWLP, an NBC affiliate, is a LIN Media television station. LIN Media, along with its subsidiaries, is a local multimedia company that owns, operates or services 32 network-affiliated broadcast television stations, interactive television station and niche web sites, and mobile platforms in 17 U.S. markets. LIN Media's online advertising business, RMM, leverages unique technology, new product innovation and customized interactive and mobile advertising solutions to deliver measurable results to local, regional and national clients.

LIN TV Corp. is traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “TVL”. Financial information about the company is available at www.linmedia.com .