Red Ribbon Week is the occasion for more than a proclamation by the Moore County Board of Commissioners.

At a board meeting last week, Darlind Davis, director of Drug Free Moore County, presented a plaque of appreciation to Commissioner Cindy Morgan for her service to the prevention of drug abuse program.

Morgan is ending her term on the Drug Free board and the Board of Commissioners. She is also a member of the Sandhills Center board.

The recognition, read by Davis, says: "To honor County Commissioner Cindy Morgan for her commitment and leadership in the mission to reduce substance abuse and for her loyal service on the board of directors, Drug Free Moore County Inc. from 2006 to 2010." The recognition is signed by Jim Miles, chairman of Drug Free Moore County Inc.

Davis also announced that her agency has been awarded a $30,000 grant to conduct a comprehensive program against prescription drug abuse. The grant was secured in cooperation with MooreHealth.

The proclamation adopted by the commissioners sets aside the week of Oct. 23-31 as Red Ribbon Week to emphasize the problems associated with alcohol, tobacco and other drug abuse.

The red ribbon symbol was chosen in memory of Enrique "Kiki" Camarena, a Drug Enforcement Administration agent who was murdered in the line of duty. The symbol "has come to represent the belief that one person can make a difference," according to the proclamation.

Congress established the Red Ribbon campaign in 1988 "to promote this belief and encourage a drug-free lifestyle and involvement in drug prevention efforts."

The proclamation asks Moore County residents to show support by wearing a red ribbon and taking part in campaign activities.

Contact Florence Gilkeson at florence@thepilot.com.