When I was a kid, First Lady Nancy Reagan fought the drug problem in America by telling kid to "Just Say No." It was popular, and I actually remember friends of mine saying "Just Say No." While it didn't work on everyone (my best friend Anthony in PS 41 got on drugs and died), it worked on others.

This week in Montana, Attorney General Tim Fox and Montana Superintendent of Public Instruction Elsie Arntzen are kicking of National Red Ribbon Week (October 23 - 31)

This year’s Red Ribbon theme is: “Your Future is Key, So Stay Drug Free.” They are encouraging students across the state to make a commitment to living healthy and drug-free lifestyles.

“We know through our Aid Montana initiative how important prevention efforts are in the fight against substance abuse,” said Attorney General Tim Fox. “Children of parents who talk to their teens regularly about drugs are 42% less likely to use drugs than those who don't, yet only a quarter of teens report having these conversations. I encourage all Montana parents to take some time during Red Ribbon Week to discuss the importance of drug and alcohol prevention with their children.”

So while the words are a little different the message is the same: don't use drugs.

“As a teacher, I know first-hand how important it is for parents and schools to partner in guiding healthy choices for Montana students,” said Superintendent Elsie Arntzen. “Our Montana communities have felt the pain of drug abuse and seen too many futures lost. On Red Ribbon Week, let’s make Montana proud and honor a healthy future for our students.”

We are being asked to wear a red ribbon this week. Wearing the red ribbon means Montanans are showing their opposition to drugs.

In other words, when it comes to drugs... "JUST SAY NO." I wish my childhood friend Anthony would have.

Dominick

Ronald Reagan and Nancy Reagan sitting together
Ronald Reagan Presidental Library/Getty Images
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