Thank you Commissioner’s for this opportunity to speak to you today. This is the 9^th year we in Josephine County have recognized Red Ribbon Week. We have participated in quite a few events over the years.

What started out as Red Ribbon Rallies at the courthouse – has progressed to essay and poster contests for students in elementary schools and middle schools.

This year, the Jo. County Drug Court is collaborating with a new group called S.N.A.P. which stands for Social Network of Advocates for Prevention. This group is an offshoot of the local Meth Task Force.

Not only is SNAP partnering with the Drug Court this year for RR Week, they host clean and sober teen events to coincide with our local First Friday evenings. They are doing an awesome job to offer fun and creative activities to youth in our area.

During RR Week, many schools in Josephine County will be hosting a variety of activities. Our sponsored activities include:

• Our Drug Court ProTeam family group made fabulous posters using the theme ” Life – Nothing Added,’ which is the theme of our Red Ribbon bracelets.

• Classes at Fleming Middle School and Lincoln Savage entered our essay contest by writing some amazing essays using the theme, “Why I Choose to be Drug Free.” Prizes will be given to schools, classrooms, students, and teachers — next week.

Essays and Posters will be displayed for RR Week starting this Friday, the 24^th on the County Commissioner’s wall on the 1^st floor of the courthouse. Come by to view the display.