(East Los Angeles, CA) – Speaking to students at the elementary school he attended, Assembly Member Calderon will recognize over 600 students at Winter Gardens for taking a pledge to stay free of alcohol, tobacco, illegal drugs and violence. This event initiates the 2007 Red Ribbon Week, where Assembly Member Calderon will recognize over 10,000 fourth grade students in the 58th Assembly District for their commitment to lead a positive lifestyle.  Assembly Member Calderon will be joined by dignitaries, educators, public safety officials and parents including Montebello Unified Superintendent Ed Vasquez, Montebello Unified School Board Member Marcella Calderon, East Los Angeles Sheriff’s Captain Marilyn Baker , Winter Gardens Principal Olga Moreno, Field Deputy David Vela from the Office of Supervisor Gloria Molina and special guest McGruff the Crime Dog.
 
“As someone who grew up in East Los Angeles and attended Winter Gardens, I am aware of the dangers that these youth encounter every day. The pressure to consume alcohol, take drugs and engage in violent behavior presented significant road blocks in my development as a young person” states Assemblymember Calderon, “The commitment of these youth to stay free of alcohol, drugs and violence in such an environment speaks volumes about their character. I am honored to stand with parents, teachers and public safety officials as we recognize these young people today.”

Assembly Concurrent Resolution 70 proclaims October 23-31 as Red Ribbon Week and encourages all Californians to help build drug- free communities and participate in drug prevention activities. The Red Ribbon Kick Off will occur on Monday, October 22nd at Winter Gardens Elementary. The school is located at 1277 South Clela Avenue, Los Angeles 90022. The event begins at 8:00 a.m.

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Assembly Member Charles Calderon, Chair of the Revenue and Taxation Committee represents the cities of Downey, Industry, Montebello, Pico Rivera, Whittier and the communities of East Los Angeles, Hacienda Heights, South San Jose Hills and Valinda.