It 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 to educate children and get the word out that drugs are not the answer. 

 

Attendees heard heart- felt stories from Pinellas County Commissioner Susan Latvala, who also presented a pro- clamation 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.
Ms. Julieta Gil, director of the Foundation for a Drug-Free World, welcomed everyone and offered a compelling introduction for the cause of the Foundation:  “I am so very pleased to be part of today’s activities – creating a time and a place to show the children in our community that a drug-free life is more fun and to acknowledge the artist and beauty that is in each one of them.”

 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.

Food and refreshments were donated by, Publix and Papa John’s Pizza.  Other sponsors included the Community Learning Center, Mt. Carmel Baptist Church, Church of Scientology, Sound Productions, Artists in Action, Stonebridge Real Estate Co., Café Milano, Bellissima Spa, Target and Cold Stone Creamery.

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