NEWS

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

October 26 - 30, 2009

PROCLAMATION

"RED RIBBON WEEK”

Cities across America have been plagued by the numerous problems associated with alcohol, tobacco, and other drug use. Substance abuse is particularly damaging to one of our most valuable resources, our children, and a contributing factor in the three leading causes of death for teenagers – accidents, homicides, and suicides. October 26 - 30, 2009 has been designated National Red Ribbon Week, calling on all Americans to show their support for a drug-free nation by wearing a red ribbon during that week. It is the goal of Red Ribbon Week and the City of Sumter to involve families, schools, businesses, churches, law enforcement agencies and service organizations in all aspects of this campaign and establish an atmosphere that supports awareness, education and ongoing initiatives to prevent illegal drug use. The Red Ribbon Week Campaign promotes family and individual responsibilities for living healthy, drug-free lifestyles, without illegal drugs or the illegal use of legal drugs.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that I Joseph T. McElveen, Jr., Mayor of the City of Sumter, do hereby proclaim the week of October 26 - 30, 2009 to be

"RED RIBBON WEEK”
in the
CITY OF SUMTER

and urge all citizens to join in the week’s activities and to work all year long to protect our community from the dangers of alcohol and other drugs.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a copy of this proclamation will be presented to the principal of Wilder Elementary School for display during its Red Ribbon Week celebration (October 26 – 30).

                                                                                                Joseph T. McElveen, Jr., Mayor