RED RIBBON WEEK BEING BRINGS DRUG AWARENESS TO AREA STUDENTS

It began with one man, now schools across the country - including
Demopolis City Schools - celebrate the life and honor the death of
Enrique "Kiki" Camarena with Red Ribbon Week.

DEA special agent Camerena spent his career fighting the war against
drugs, until his death in 1985, when he was kidnapped, brutally
tortured and slain by drug traffikers. It was following his death that
Camerena's fellow agents, friends and family banded together and began
the red ribbon campaign, a campaign to reduce demand for drugs through
prevention and education programs.

Demopolis schools have a week full of activities, all promoting a
drug-free life. The week kicked off at U.S. Jones with a visit from
Mayor Cecil Williamson, who signed a proclamation declaring the week
of Oct. 25-29 as Red Ribbon/Drug Awareness Week.

"One person really can make a difference in the world," she told
students. "Enrique "Kiki" Camarena did. He came from a poor family but
worked very hard to become a police officer. He said, 'I am only one
person, but I want to make a difference,'" she said.

"Today, remember this. You may be just one small person, but you can
make a difference during Red Ribbon Week. Wear a red ribbon and let
people know that you want to do your part to end drug and alcohol
abuse. Share Kiki Camerena's story with others and inspire them to do
the same thing," Williamson said.

Students signed a pledge agreeing to stay drug free and the school is
collecting canned goods throughout the week for the "I can, you can,
we all can say no to drugs" food drive. The homeroom that collects the
most canned foods will receive a pizza party.

Tuesday looked like multiple sets of multiples had descended on the
school for "Friends help friends stay drug free" day. Friends dressed
alike and had their pictures made together.

Wednesday students and teachers will be seeing red as they participate
in "Make a commit'mint' to remain drug free." On this day, parents and
guardians are encouraged to visit their child's homeroom and sign
their drug free pledge. The homeroom with the most parent
participation will receive a popcorn and movie party. Teachers must
participate as well to claim 100 percent.

Thursday is "Be sharp, stay away from drugs," and students will be
given "I like me drug free" pencils.

The week will end with the grand finale "Lei (lay) off drugs," when
not only students and teachers, but parents as well, are asked to
dress in Hawaiin attire. The canned food contest will come to an end
at 9 a.m.

Students at Demopolis High School have also signed the pledge to be
drug-free and are recognizing campaign efforts at their campus too.