Students learn the importance of living clean and sober

Students throughout Moorpark have been celebrating National Red Ribbon Week with special events reminding them of the importance of a drug-free lifestyle.

The program, which takes place annually from Oct. 23 to 31, is a tribute to Drug Enforcement Agency agent Kiki Camarena, who was kidnapped, tortured and murdered by drug traffickers in Mexico in 1985.

The weeklong event shows the students that Camarena's spirit and hope for a drug-free America won't be extinguished, said Peach Hill Academy Red Ribbon coordinators Jill Maier and Pam Nevoso.

Schools throughout Moorpark hosted assemblies and events depicting how drugs damage lives, whether through lost productivity, unfulfilled dreams, vehicle accidents or addiction.

"The campaign has made important contributions on combating substance abuse in our community," said Mayor Patrick Hunter as he recognized Red Ribbon Week at a recent City Council meeting.

"Red Ribbon is a rallying point for children to live a healthy and drug-free life," he said.

Children at Peach Hill and throughout the Moorpark Unified School District were invited to wear red to affirm their commitment to drug prevention and education.

- Sylvie Belmond