The Nye Communities Coalition (NCC), in coordination with the Nye County School District, is kicking off local support for National Red Ribbon Campaign Week, Oct. 23-31.

The NCC's hope is to have local businesses and residents display a red ribbon during the week to show their support for the program.

Another way to show support is to wear something red Oct. 29 to support a drug-free Nye County. This year's theme is "Look at me, I'm drug free," to develop parent and community team efforts to combat drugs and promote a drug-free lifestyle.

The national program (and subsequent local programs) was developed as a result of the murder of Drug Enforcement Agency agent Kiki Camerena, and was designed to encourage the belief that one person can make a difference in the fight against drugs.

Stacy Smith, NCC director, said, "The National Red Ribbon Week is a great way to raise awareness about the ongoing struggles that communities across our nation have with drug abuse. We have really appreciated the efforts of the local businesses, Nye County School District and the school counselors as they join in the prevention activities.

"While the majority of our students don't use alcohol, tobacco or other drugs, it's imperative that we all work to help everyone make the healthiest choices possible and we all have to remain consistent in our messages of no drug use, no tobacco use and no alcohol use for all students."

The event will be kicked off with drug-free pledges and prevention messages, theme days, activities that include banding together with every student tying a red ribbon to the school fence, (some schools will emphasize the need to say something positive to open lines of communication and reduce violence).

Students will also be given bracelets allowing them discounts at local participating businesses during the week.

One such business is Skate Zone, which will discount skating Oct. 26 from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Discounted prices includes $1 admissions, $1 quads, $1.50 in-lines and $3 unlimited laser tag. Discounts are available to all youths wearing their bracelets.

The NCC in cooperation with the local cooperative extension office will offer a teen movie the night of Friday, Oct. 26, from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. The movie is open to middle and high school youths who have their school identification and drug-free bracelet. Admission is $1 and a concession will be available.

The NCC asks, in addition to businesses, that government organizations in the county, parents, law enforcement agencies, the media, medical and religious institutions, schools, all citizens, youth, etc., wear and display red ribbons or bracelets and participate in the week's activities.

Everyone can participate by displaying a large red ribbon on their clothes and by giving red ribbons to friends and others to encourage their participation.

The student bracelets will be distributed to students by school district teachers and counselors.