Red Ribbon organizers hope to rally others to fight drugs

While citizens across the United States are considering how to vote in the upcoming presidential race, many Southington residents feel another vote may be just as important: "Your vote does count! Say no to drugs and alcohol!"

That is the theme of the 18th annual Red Ribbon Rally planned for Wednesday, Oct. 15, at 6:15 p.m., on the Town Green or if it rains, at Derynoski Elementary School. Southington Drug Task Force members have been working for months to organize the event designed to bring together people of all ages to demonstrate their allegiance to fight against drugs and alcohol.

The one-hour rally gives families, students and adults the opportunity to gather in the community spirit, said Trish Kenefick, a teacher who also co-chairs the Southington Drug Task Force with Harold Kane. Last year's event attracted more than 400 people and this year she expects more. Other communities across the country also observe Red Ribbon Week.

Drug use and suicide among teenagers have been two concerns of Southington parents and officials, said Sue Saucier, director of Youth Services. In reality, it is impossible to stop every person from using drugs, but the event provides the opportunity for the community to show support for the cause, Saucier said. "It's a public symbol, a tradition."

Participants include those in school groups such as Peer Advocates, Key Club and National Honor Society, as well as student athletes and cheerleaders, the Police Explorers, dance teams, Scouts and members of other community groups. Many of the students will take the microphone to tell listeners what they do to stay drug-free such as play sports, participate in clubs or help others. Emcee will be the Rev. Victoria Triano with guest speakers including Joseph V. Erardi Jr., superintendent of Southington Schools, and high school football captains.

Southington Elks Lodge 1669 Exalted Ruler Liz Thisdale said many members are also involved with the Southington Drug Task Force. The Elks Lodge is active in the rally by providing the state Elks drug awareness trailer that provides information on a variety of drug and alcohol issues. Along with the trailer comes Elroy the Elk, a mascot who interacts with the children. Thisdale said even if one person who attends the rally decides to stay away from drugs, that's success.

The Elks Lodge sponsors and mentors the Venture Crew, a group of Scouts ages 14 to 20, and Elks encourage them with the same message to stay drug-free. The goal is to show the teenagers the way to become "productive citizens on the right path," Thisdale said.

The event is open to everyone and is free. Youths in kindergarten through12th grade are welcome to bring a poster illustrating the theme with the chance to win $100, $50 or $25. A huge red ribbon will be on display for people to sign; it will later be displayed in the Southington Public Library.

For more information, call Southington Youth Services at (860) 276-6281 or e-mail Trish Kenefick at tkenefick@southingtonschools.org.