POMEROY — Area high schools recently celebrated Red Ribbon Week which is an ideal way for people and communities to unite and take a visible stand against drugs and alcohol.

The celebrations were planned and organized by Meigs County Mobilizing for Change on Alcohol (MCMCA). MCMCA is a program provided by the Southern Local School District through its Grant to Reduce Alcohol Abuse (GRAA). The MCMCA program mission is to involve the citizens of Meigs County in an initiative to decrease underage drinking and the health and social problems associated with it. Southern, Eastern, and Meigs Local Schools each have a community organizer to serve the high school students and community members of their district. Sean Riffle is serving Southern Local, Abby Harris Meigs Local, and Brenda Curfman Eastern Local.

Red Ribbon Week activities were held throughout the month of October. Beginning on Oct. 8th, the Meigs County Commissioners signed a proclamation recognizing Oct. 19 - 23 as Red Ribbon Week. Students at Meigs High School had the opportunity to participate in activities focusing on their theme of “Band Together Against Drugs.” Local band “Live This Down” performed and spoke on the dangers of drugs during a school wide assembly. Other activities included in Red Ribbon Week were door decorating contests, and red ribbons being tied on car antennas.

Southern and Eastern High Schools held activities during football games with students and adults displaying red ribbons and announcements on drinking and driving being made at halftime. Red ribbons were displayed on the football fences representing the number of fatal crashes involving youth drivers. Students in each school participated in theme days and created a banner of signatures pledging to live a drug and alcohol free life.

MCMCA Community Organizers can be reached at the GRAA office located in Southern High School at 949-2611 ext. 2112. They look forward to serving the families of Meigs County.