Volunteers Join Forces in the War on Drugs and Celebrate Red Ribbon Week in North GreenwoodIt is often in times of tragedy, such as that recently witnessed by the Greenwood community of Clearwater, that the finer nature of individuals rises to the surface and they bond as a cohesive force to help one another. As part of Red Ribbon Week - national drug awareness week -- and on the heels of the recent drug-related shootings, the North Greenwood Community Coalition and the Foundation for a Drug-Free World organized a community event at the North Greenwood Recreation and Aquatics Center this past Saturday to educate children and get the word out that drugs are not the answer. Attendees heard heartfelt stories from Pinellas County Commissioner Susan Latvala, who also presented a proclamation proclaiming October 27, 2007 as, "Say No to Drugs, Say Yes to Life Day" in Pinellas County. Commissioner Latvala was followed by an appeal from long time advocate of drug awareness, Clearwater City Manager Bill Horne. The invocation was performed by Pastor William Sherman of the Mt. Carmel Baptist Church. Saturday's event included a number of local performers - such as the "Soul Steppers of Tampa Bay," a rousing group of young women and men whose rhythmic stepping and movements got the crowd cheering and clapping. Attendees also enjoyed Hip Hop and R & B singer Avari, The Krump All Star Dancers, and Helen Henry and the Say No to Drugs Choir. Children were encouraged to participate in a "Say not to drugs, Say yes to life" art contest and were awarded prizes in different age categories, with each child acknowledged for their entry. The prizes were presented by Maurice Mickens the president of the North Greenwood Community Coalition. City Manager Horne also swore in over 100 children as "Drug Free Marshals" and then children signed the pledge to live a drug free life and encourage friends and family to do the same.
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