CC! in Muhlenberg County held a rally in conjunction with Red Ribbon Week on October 22, and all fourth and fifth grade students in the county attended. The three-hour program began with six pillars of the community speaking on the Six Pillars of Character. A local bank president talked about the value of trustworthiness, the sheriff discussed the importance of showing respect, the school superintendent shared his views on responsibility, a judge discussed fairness, a hospital CEO emphasized the importance of caring and a state representative focused on citizenship.

Other activities included a magician's routine, skits, and testimony from a recovering addict who now is a director of Life Skills and Champions Against Drugs. Some high school students representing athletic and civic groups spoke on "Why I Choose to Be Drug-Free." Games, door prizes, and lunch rounded off the rally. A local disc jockey emceed the event and kept it lively with good music and student interaction. Local business donations make it all possible.

"Let me say that we are full throttle with CHARACTER COUNTS! in Muhlenberg County," added coordinator Gail Johnson. "We have purchased many community awareness materials and are promoting good character throughout our county. For schools, we have purchased Good Ideas books for every certified teacher! We are focusing on one Pillar per month and widely publicizing it throughout the county via outdoor signs, newsletters, banners, posters, church bulletins, etc. Even our courthouse displays the Six Pillars of Character on its six columns. This is truly a community-wide effort."