By Andrea Holata

FORT PIERCE — On Oct. 11, the Fort Pierce community gathered under the chickee at the Chupco Ranch to raise awareness of drug and alcohol prevention for Red Ribbon Week.

“We really like to get together every year just to remind everybody the importance of saying no to alcohol and drugs and keeping the Seminole Tribe’s children and adults all safe, healthy and happy,” said Valerie Marone, Family Services Department events coordinator. “It’s important to keep that message out there to provide healthy activities for our children and members of the Tribe.”

During the week, the community participated in a door decorating contest based on this year’s theme, The best me is drug free.

Youth created posters using the same theme, and afterward, the community listened to guest speaker Sgt. Shane Altman from the Seminole Police Department. Sgt. Altman talked about his experiences working in the drug enforcement division.

Community members received T-shirts, bags and red ribbons to promote drug prevention, and many enjoyed a catered dinner by Golden Corral.