TOP STORY OF THE DAY - Clay County Commissioners proclaim October 23-31 Red Ribbon Week

HAYLEY COOPER PHOTO - Commissioners Paul Sinders and Marty Heffner hold the signed proclamation declaring October 23-31 Red Ribbon Week. (Bryan Allender was out of town during the monthly meeting.)

"This is probably one of my favorites. We really enjoy it," explained Clay County Commissioner Marty Heffner.

During Red Ribbon Week, fifth graders in the county visit the Courthouse to tour the offices.

"(This is) Their opportunity to come and see how our county government works," said Heffner. "If you could just model that energy that's here on that day, my gosh, we'd get a lot done."

Commissioner President Paul Sinders said they've done this for some time and always read the proclamation on Red Ribbon Day at the Courthouse.

"To give credit where credit's due, I asked Judge Joe Trout to prepare the proclamation early this year, which he has done," said Sinders.

Fifth graders this year will get a special tour.

"Normally, they don't get to see the inside of the jail cells, but being as we're under construction with the new jail, they're going to have a short tour through the facility," said Heffner.

The proclamation states:

WHEREAS, alcohol, tobacco, and drug abuse in the United States of America is harming this Nation and the people in it; and

WHEREAS, it is imperative that unified prevention education efforts by community members be launched to eliminate drug abuse, alcohol abuse, and the harm caused by tobacco abuse; and

WHEREAS, The National Red Ribbon Campaign will be celebrated in every community in America during Red Ribbon Week, October 23-31; and

WHEREAS, in Clay County, Indiana Government, law enforcement, Indiana businesses, schools, the media, and our citizens have joined together to demonstrate their commitment to healthy, drug-free lifestyles; and

WHEREAS, the community of Clay County vows to commit its resources to ensure the success of the Red Ribbon Campaign and to providing awareness education for our young people; and

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, The Clay County Commissioners hereby proclaim October 21-31 as RED RIBBON WEEK and encourage its citizens to participate in drug prevention education activities, not only during Red Ribbon Week but all year long, making a visible statement that we are strongly committed to a drug-free community.