Presidio residents are invited to participate in a Red Ribbon Week parade and community celebration Thursday, Oct. 29, bringing together local schools, law enforcement agencies, firefighters and businesses to promote drug-free lifestyles among children and families.
The event, organized under the theme “Together for a Drug-Free Presidio County,” will feature a parade through the city of Presidio, concluding at the city swimming pool, where families can enjoy free food, refreshments and activities.
Organizers are advertising free hamburgers, hot dogs, drinks, snacks and other treats for children, with expenses covered by local sponsors.
Red Ribbon Week is a nationwide drug prevention awareness campaign observed annually Oct. 23-31. The initiative encourages students, families and communities to make healthy choices and raises awareness about the dangers of drug abuse.
The campaign traces its origins to the 1985 killing of Enrique “Kiki” Camarena, a U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration agent murdered while investigating drug trafficking in Mexico. His death inspired a grassroots movement in which Americans began wearing red ribbons to honor his sacrifice and demonstrate their opposition to illegal drugs.
The movement eventually developed into one of the nation’s largest drug prevention awareness campaigns, with schools and community organizations across the country participating each October.
The Presidio celebration is being promoted with the message “Drug-Free Schools, Brighter Tomorrows,” emphasizing the importance of prevention education and community involvement.
Agencies featured in the event announcement include the Texas Department of Public Safety, Presidio Independent School District Police Department, U.S. Border Patrol, U.S. Customs and Border Protection Field Operations, local police and fire departments, and the Presidio County Sheriff’s Office.
The parade is expected to highlight the cooperation among local, state and federal public safety agencies serving the border community.
Local businesses are also supporting the celebration. Sponsors identified on the event announcement include Big Bend Banks, First Presidio Bank, Hoyer Trucking LLC, Three Palms Inn, Pancho Villa Construction and Relax Place Rentals.
The event is intended to provide an opportunity for children to interact with public safety personnel in a positive community setting while reinforcing messages about healthy decisions and avoiding substance abuse.
The celebration is scheduled for Thursday, Oct. 29, with the parade traveling through Presidio and concluding at the city pool.
A specific parade starting time and route were not provided in the event announcement. All advertised food and refreshments will be free for children, courtesy of participating sponsors.
