Lawrence County Commissioners typically take an oath of office when they are elected but last week at the behest of some area children, they all three pledged to be drug free.

The commission proclaimed this week Red Ribbon Week as part of the national observance that encourages people to lead drug free lives.

Several members of the local Youth Empowerment Activities program co-sponsored by the Family Guidance Center Lawrence County Juvenile Court and Appalachian family and Child First Council, attended the meeting and explained the purpose of the week.

Cierra Thomas, of Ironton, recounted the story of U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency Agent Enrique Camarena, who was killed by drug cartel members in February 1985.

Because of his death, Thomas told the commission, friends and neighbors began to wear red ribbons to show their support for the cause Camarena was willing to die for.

Elizabeth Stapleton, of Ironton, then led the commission in a pledge to be drug free.

Family Guidance Center Prevention Specialist John Godwin said his agency has activities planned throughout the week in observance of Red Ribbon Week.

The Ninth Street Project members will have a Halloween party and the older students will make a presentation to younger ones about drug and alcohol abuse. Family Guidance Center staffers will also join Chesapeake High School students as they make a presentation to the elementary school students Friday morning.