Clarkson proclaims Red Ribbon Week

Read more at the Grayson County News.

Alongside her fellow city officials, Clarkson Mayor Bonnie Henderson, fourth from left, cuts a red ribbon Tuesday evening to commemorate Red Ribbon Week 2025. 

The Clarkson City Commission commemorated Red Ribbon Week during its regular meeting Tuesday night.

The commission approved a proclamation declaring the week of Oct. 23 through Oct. 31 to be Red Ribbon Week as part of the national campaign promoting healthy, drug-free lifestyles. 

In addition to approving the proclamation, city officials signed a banner supporting the initiative, and Clarkson Mayor Bonnie Henderson cut a ceremonial red ribbon alongside the commission.

This year's Red Ribbon Week theme is "Life Is A Puzzle, Solve It Drug Free." For more information, visit redribbon.org.

In addition to the Red Ribbon Week proclamation, the city commission approved a second proclamation declaring Tuesday, Nov. 11 to be Honor Our Veterans Day in Clarkson. This coincides with the national Veterans Day holiday, which is also Nov. 11. 

Officials said Clarkson VFW Post 12175 will hold a ceremony in recognition of Veterans Day on Nov. 11 at the William Walker Building. A time for the ceremony had not been finalized as of Tuesday's meeting.

In other business, the city commission: 

*Received an update on the resurfacing of the Clarkson walking trail. Henderson said work is expected to begin by the first of November if not earlier. 

*Authorized City Attorney Tom Goff to send letters to the owners of 15 blighted properties — including both residential and commercial properties — within the city limits requesting they improve their properties. 

*Received a report on this past weekend's Treats on the Trail. According to City Clerk Scotty Gore, $230 was made for the park fund from the sale of concessions.

*Discussed purchasing a sign to be placed at the Clarkson playground recognizing VFW Post 12175 for its contributions to updating the play area. 

*Announced that this year's Light Up Clarkson event will be held Friday, Dec. 5 at 6 p.m. at Clarkson City Park.

*Voted to permit Anthony Andretta to speak with city employees about purchasing life insurance. 

Matt Lasley, Grayson County News