Big Duck to be lit purple for Overdose Awareness Day; community events planned

Local recovery groups HUGS Inc. and SAFE in Southampton announced that the Flanders Road landmark known as the Big Duck will be lit purple starting Aug. 31 to mark Overdose Awareness Day, part of National Recovery Month. The event will include remarks and personal stories beginning at 7 p.m.

"Lighting the big duck purple reminds us that prevention works, treatment works, recovery is possible, and connection can save lives," Kim Laubey, executive director of HUGS Inc., said on air. Community members are encouraged to attend and wear purple in recognition. The broadcast described the event as an opportunity to remember lives lost to overdose and celebrate recovery efforts.

Organizers asked participants to attend the 7 p.m. program and to wear purple as a community show of support; additional details about speakers or logistics were not provided on the broadcast.