Eta Beta hosts Red Ribbon Week

The past week of Oct.28 to Nov.1 marked Red Ribbon Week, which aimed to bring attention the dangers of Drugs and Alcohol. On Monday, the Office of Special Programs set a “crashed car” on the road between the Memorial Student Center and Anderson Hall. A black Mitsubishi Galant was totaled from the exterior inward. The windshield had ruptured into pieces. The rear window had also shattered, as well as the side view mirrors. All the machinery beneath the twisted and dented hood of the vehicle had become visible. The back tire on the right of the vehicle was completely detached. The purpose of the “crashed car” was to give a concrete visual, demonstrating the potential effects of driving under the influence of drugs and or alcohol.
Senior biology major Olivia Solomon spoke on how she viewed the crashed car. “I think it acts as a great visual aid for students. College students especially should be mindful of the affects of substance abuse. The first time I ever saw it, I was drawn to it. I observed it from every angle. The crashed car is definitely an attention grabber.”
There were also series of signs placed around Prairie View’s campus with statistics regarding the number of people effected by alcohol and drug abuse. Some of the signs read “If you don’t stop friends from drinking and driving… What will?” Some contained important information such as “There is No Tolerance for drivers under 21 who allow any alcohol to be in the blood system while behind the wheel…” and “Drugs can impair your ability to steer straight.” On Thursday, Oct. 31st, the Office of Special Programs collaborated with the Eta Beta Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta for a Happy Hour that took place between 2:30 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. on the second floor of the Memorial Student Center. The sorority members served non-alcoholic cocktails as a way to present low-risk alternatives. These beverages included Etalia’s Tornado Twist, Madison’s Tropical Sunrise, Kirko’s Lime Colas and numerous others. The room was packed with people. People appeared to be content enjoying the lighted atmosphere. The ambiance was full chatter and laughter.
When recording secretary, Erica Ponder was asked about how she felt the event went, she said, “It went very well. It was a lot of fun mixing different kinds of drinks. Everyone seemed to have really enjoyed themselves.”
Ponder also commented on Red Ribbon Week itself “Red Ribbon week is very important. We need to understand that we can have a good time without alcohol or drugs.” Program coordinator Isis McGraw, mentioned a desire to do more activities on campus for future Red Ribbon Weeks. “I think it’s time to step it up,” she stated. McGraw discussed her enthusiasm for future Red Ribbon Weeks. She aspires to create Red Ribbon weeks where students can collectively get involved.