Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: SATURDAY, October 23, 1993 TAG: 9310230027
SECTION: VIRGINIA PAGE: A-4 EDITION: METRO
SOURCE: JOEL TURNER STAFF WRITER
DATELINE: LENGTH: Medium
No, the red won't signify a traffic fatality as it has sometimes in the past.
It will be a symbol of red-ribbon week and the Roanoke Valley's efforts to combat alcohol and drug abuse.
The red ribbon has become part of a national campaign to create drug-free lifestyles and communities.
The campaign was initiated in 1985 by the Virginia Federation of Communities for Drug-Free Youth following the murder of a federal agent by drug traffickers.
Children in "Just Say No" clubs at the Lansdowne Park and Lincoln Terrace housing communities helped Mayor David Bowers on Friday afternoon flip the switch to turn the star red.
Bowers urged the youngsters to wear their red buttons with ribbons attached throughout the week.
"The negative impacts of drugs and alcohol know no boundaries and can destroy the lives of people," he said. "We have an obligation to our young people, to our families and to our community to send the message we actively support a drug-free lifestyle."
Judge Philip Trompeter, chairman of the Roanoke Valley Drug and Alcohol Abuse Council, said the city was asked to turn the star red for a week because it is such an important and visible symbol in the community.
Trompeter, a judge in the Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court, said he sees almost daily the destructive effects of drug abuse.
Stu Israel, chairman of the Roanoke Area Youth Substance Abuse Coalition, said drug abuse is a problem for the entire community.
Said Israel: "We can tell young people to stay away from drugs, but we also have an obligation to help provide safe, fun events that highlight the fact that they can have a great time without the presence of drugs or alcohol."
by CNB