A story came out this week and is being shared all over social media about the teacher's aide who was arrested at the school she worked. Not only was she high on the job but she was also charged with possession while in the school.
Berkeley County, W.Va., Teacher Aide Charged With Possession of a Controlled Substance
I would like to thank the journalist who reported this story fairly and accurately. I read the Herald-Mail now because our own local paper really doesn't report a lot of local news. If you are a criminal or charged with a drug violation they have an entire section of the paper dedicated to the listing of the charges. Not many stories follow, just listings of names and a few times after hearings.
Sometimes there is an occasional story about those charged and sentenced for crimes relating to drug dealing. I often wonder what is wrong with a system that the drug dealers often get no or little time sentence for drug dealing, but those who commit crimes due to their addiction are given maximum sentences.
I personally have so many mixed emotions since this news came out. As a grandparent, I am angry because one of my grandkids goes to that school. It just proves what I have said all along, drugs are in the school system and not just at the student level.
As a mother of addicts- clean today, struggling daily, my heart goes out to that person and her family because as I've said so many times, heroin and addiction do not discriminate. This story just like many others of professionals proves it doesn't matter who you are or what profession you have, so many people struggle with addiction to heroin.
I am also angry that this proves that apparently, teachers and BOE workers are not being drug tested.
Honestly (and in my opinion) this answers so many questions and proves that testing needs to be done each year before the start of the school year and randomly throughout the year.
I think all state workers, not just a selected few need to be drug tested especially if their paychecks are coming from taxpayer money in the state.
I also think this needs to be done as high as the government level- governor, senators, and representatives- and right on down the chain to all of those in any state paying jobs.
I hope that the person accused will receive drug counseling and help.
The story reported by Matthew Umstead @ Herald-Mail
© 2018 Gossip Girl
Absolutely
Showing posts with label Berkeley County. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Berkeley County. Show all posts
Friday, October 5, 2018
Tuesday, March 14, 2017
Recovering heroin addict: "They call Martinsburg 'Little Baltimore'"...
Many of us here in Martinsburg and Berkeley County have expressed the need for a long-term, dual diagnostic drug treatment center here in Berkeley County and/or Martinsburg, WV especially when it was announced the same year as this video came out about the building at 750 Baltimore St.
I believe after the statement on this video by officials here, there was never any intention whatsoever for the building at 750 Baltimore St
I believe after the statement on this video by officials here, there was never any intention whatsoever for the building at 750 Baltimore St
Friday, March 10, 2017
Where Are They Now?
For the past several months I have been wondering, where are all of those politicians who last year at this time came out to support us on the issue of the need for this treatment center here in Martinsburg, WV or in Berkeley County?
With the elections over they have all went away, meanwhile our issues have not stopped. We saw the numbers for the overdoses rise after the election was over. We saw the numbers of those dying from this addiction rise.
Where are they? Where are all of them who came out crawling for votes? Were your promises to us just a myth to get those votes of support?
We had those who came out and said they supported us, then we had those who came out and just said, "I stand with you." Stand with us? Why? Just to show you can show up for an anti heroin event?
We aren't looking for those who just want their five minutes of fame from a picture in the newspaper, or a clip for the local nightly news. We want to see you in action. Where are the promises? You told us how important a treatment center here is, yet we see nothing in the way of progressing forward.
Hello... All of the phone calls and emails have stopped now that the election is over. Where are you now?
© 2017 Gossip Girl
With the elections over they have all went away, meanwhile our issues have not stopped. We saw the numbers for the overdoses rise after the election was over. We saw the numbers of those dying from this addiction rise.
Where are they? Where are all of them who came out crawling for votes? Were your promises to us just a myth to get those votes of support?
We had those who came out and said they supported us, then we had those who came out and just said, "I stand with you." Stand with us? Why? Just to show you can show up for an anti heroin event?
We aren't looking for those who just want their five minutes of fame from a picture in the newspaper, or a clip for the local nightly news. We want to see you in action. Where are the promises? You told us how important a treatment center here is, yet we see nothing in the way of progressing forward.
Hello... All of the phone calls and emails have stopped now that the election is over. Where are you now?
© 2017 Gossip Girl
Sunday, March 5, 2017
Heroin: Stretching From Mexico To Martinsburg, WV
Who can remember when Aljazeera Magazine came here to Martinsburg to do a story on our heroin epidemic in 2015?
If this is the reason why our government needs to go strong against street gangs by all means use whatever is necessary! Too many here are dying as we speak. If you are old enough to remember the mafia street gangs and violence, our government did what was needed at the moment with indictments and prison time. Did it stop the mob syndicates? I don't believe it entirely rid our country of them. I believe there is an underworld where they still exist today. I believe the street gangs all over the US are now the soldiers in this war.
What would be the #1 thing to profit from on both sides? Drugs in this country. Someone is controlling the borders. Someone is controlling the water ways and ports into and out of this country. Who stands to lose the most, should this problem go away?
Read more @>>>>> Heroin: A Deadly Industry Stretching From Mexico to the U.S.
History of American Street Gangs (wiki)
History of American Mafia (wiki)
"Over the past month my team and I have followed the heroin corridor from colorful poppy fields in the remote mountains of southern Mexico to Martinsburg, West Virginia - one small American town ravaged by addiction and overdoses...."Personally and I am trying not to get too political here but we know the drug war has went on for way too long. No one is winning. Too many have lost their lives as this war has continued for decades now. IF this is the reason our government wants to shut down our borders right now, by all means CLOSE IT DOWN!!!!!
If this is the reason why our government needs to go strong against street gangs by all means use whatever is necessary! Too many here are dying as we speak. If you are old enough to remember the mafia street gangs and violence, our government did what was needed at the moment with indictments and prison time. Did it stop the mob syndicates? I don't believe it entirely rid our country of them. I believe there is an underworld where they still exist today. I believe the street gangs all over the US are now the soldiers in this war.
What would be the #1 thing to profit from on both sides? Drugs in this country. Someone is controlling the borders. Someone is controlling the water ways and ports into and out of this country. Who stands to lose the most, should this problem go away?
Read more @>>>>> Heroin: A Deadly Industry Stretching From Mexico to the U.S.
History of American Street Gangs (wiki)
History of American Mafia (wiki)
Friday, March 3, 2017
Just Announced: The Sell of the Site of Proposed Treatment Center
Funny how things work huh? So, the petition we have started growing interest again over the past week. Today the news is saying the site at 750 Baltimore St. in Martinsburg, WV which was proposed to be the site of a drug treatment center here in our town is now being sold.
I wonder, did they set in chambers and think that it they sold the building then we'd change our minds?
Did they think we minions would back down and go away quietly? Defeated? If they did then I hate to inform them that a few keystrokes later and the words 750 Baltimore St is removed from the wording of the petition to now state, WE NEED A DRUG TREATMENT CENTER HERE.
How many more people must die struggling with this addiction before they take notice? How much higher do the numbers have to grow for the total of overdose calls to 9-11 before they take notice?
This has been going on for too many years and just one is too many. Every life matters in this epidemic!
Folks, I guess this means once again occupying the chamber meetings to make our presence known.
Checkmate!!!!
Berkeley County Moves to Sell 750 Baltimore St
I wonder, did they set in chambers and think that it they sold the building then we'd change our minds?
Did they think we minions would back down and go away quietly? Defeated? If they did then I hate to inform them that a few keystrokes later and the words 750 Baltimore St is removed from the wording of the petition to now state, WE NEED A DRUG TREATMENT CENTER HERE.
How many more people must die struggling with this addiction before they take notice? How much higher do the numbers have to grow for the total of overdose calls to 9-11 before they take notice?
This has been going on for too many years and just one is too many. Every life matters in this epidemic!
Folks, I guess this means once again occupying the chamber meetings to make our presence known.
Checkmate!!!!
Berkeley County Moves to Sell 750 Baltimore St
Friday, January 6, 2017
Announcement: Newness of Life Lazrus House Coming To Martinsburg
I have been behind on the blogging for a couple of days. I had some Internet troubles earlier in the week and then it just flowed over. Big inventory coming at work so been very busy there this week. A big announcement was made earlier this week on Facebook by Justin Ponton, Director of The Newness of Life in Huntington, WV:As you may of heard, Newness of Life is going to be coming to Martinsburg to kickoff a new chapter in Berkeley County. Through some talking and urging from the ...Berkeley County's Recovery Resource Coordinator, it is going to happen real soon. We utilized the new Berkeley County Recovery Resource Center to help guide us through this venture. We are excited to be working together as a team to help with the Heroin epidemic and substance abuse in Berkeley County!
The reason Lazarus House was chosen as the name is because when I think about being brought back to life I can't think of a better example than a drug addict finding a newness of life without drugs and alcohol, without criminal activity, and without the feeling of hopelessness that plagued me in my addiction. Please share your stories of being brought back to life with #IamLazarus and post here on the Lazarus House page. Let's show the world that there is hope and that there ...is a better way.
John 11:17-23
On his arrival, Jesus found that Lazarus had already been in the tomb for four days. Now Bethany was less than two miles from Jerusalem, and many Jews had come to Martha and Mary to comfort them in the loss of their brother. When Martha heard that Jesus was coming, she went out to meet him, but Mary stayed at home.
“Lord,” Martha said to Jesus, “if you had been here, my brother would not have died. But I know that even now God will give you whatever you ask.”
Jesus said to her, “Your brother will rise again.”
On his arrival, Jesus found that Lazarus had already been in the tomb for four days. Now Bethany was less than two miles from Jerusalem, and many Jews had come to Martha and Mary to comfort them in the loss of their brother. When Martha heard that Jesus was coming, she went out to meet him, but Mary stayed at home.
“Lord,” Martha said to Jesus, “if you had been here, my brother would not have died. But I know that even now God will give you whatever you ask.”
Jesus said to her, “Your brother will rise again.”
Our Newness Of Life Director Of Operations Kevin Bowman will be moving to Martinsburg 1/27 to begin the process of opening a new location! Keep an eye out for Newness of Life Lazarus House coming to Martinsburg real soon!
This is great news for many of us in this area.
If you are struggling with addiction problems OR if you have a loved one struggling with addiction problems please reach out to Justin Ponton @ 304- 972-6601 or Kevin Bowman @ 304-412-0668 today. Please visit their Facebook Pages (links above) and visit their website @ Newness of Life
pic belongs to: The Newness of Life
Friday, November 25, 2016
The Hope Dealer Project
Locally we have two ladies in our community who do so much for others- for families in our community of active users, for anyone using and abusing who is ready to get the help they need and for those like us- the family of someone using and abusing heroin and other drugs.
They do not get the recognition that they so deserve.
Not only do they go above and beyond helping families and active users in the community but together they co-chair our local Nar Anon group and make it possible for us to meet each Sunday.
So, today I am highlighting and featuring a small local non profit organization called,
The Hope Dealer Project
Not only do they go above and beyond helping families and active users in the community but together they co-chair our local Nar Anon group and make it possible for us to meet each Sunday.
So, today I am highlighting and featuring a small local non profit organization called,
The Hope Dealer Project
"This group was born to bring hope, strength and healing to addicts and family members.
Once a parent becomes aware that their beautiful child is an addict... hopefully, we will learn the truth about the impending situation sooner rather than later. Here are some truths that I have learned:
Parents are enablers. We enable in ways we do not recognize such as handing out cash for "gas" or "food" when in fact, this money is inadvertently used for "drugs" T
his is something you will learn when dealing with an addict. They are the best story tellers ever! They can make us believe outlandish stories which we would not believe from someone else, but these are our children, our husbands, our wives. They are people we love, how can we not believe them?
We learn to do things differently in order to support them without enabling them. It's definitely not easy and it hurts! But it can be done. We did not cause the addiction. We cannot control the addiction and we cannot cure the addiction. All we can do is educate ourselves, get support for ourselves and learn ways to BREATHE as we make it through each day loving our addicts.
When we begin the terrible journey of turmoil and horrific consequences that the life of an addict involves, we are forced to learn and try to understand. It is only then that we are able to empathize with the addict while making sure that we take the time to "save ourselves"
One thing is for sure, life as we knew it will never be the same, but with God's grace we can make a positive difference in the lives of others.
his is something you will learn when dealing with an addict. They are the best story tellers ever! They can make us believe outlandish stories which we would not believe from someone else, but these are our children, our husbands, our wives. They are people we love, how can we not believe them?
We learn to do things differently in order to support them without enabling them. It's definitely not easy and it hurts! But it can be done. We did not cause the addiction. We cannot control the addiction and we cannot cure the addiction. All we can do is educate ourselves, get support for ourselves and learn ways to BREATHE as we make it through each day loving our addicts.
When we begin the terrible journey of turmoil and horrific consequences that the life of an addict involves, we are forced to learn and try to understand. It is only then that we are able to empathize with the addict while making sure that we take the time to "save ourselves"
One thing is for sure, life as we knew it will never be the same, but with God's grace we can make a positive difference in the lives of others.
As parents, we will do ANYTHING to take away the pain and smooth the road for our loved ones, but we must be aware of certain truths because even as we struggle against the truth, we find that we're we are powerless. By accepting the truth, we can begin to help the addict by helping ourselves. Feel free to reach out."
Message us Today!
Don't Be Alone!
Sending you much love and understanding.
To get more information call The Hope Dealer Project at 844-383-4673
You can find them on Facebook at The Hope Dealer Project
© 2016 The Hope Dealer Project
Saturday, November 19, 2016
It Will Take The Entire Village of This Town To Help Solve This Problem
Michael Deleon, well known for his documentaries The American Epidemic, Kids Are Dying and Steered Straight says this about solutions to this national crisis in our country today:
We are experiencing the most damaging health crisis ever to face our Nation. The only way to solve this problem is through collaboration. Law Enforcement cannot solve this. Medical
We are experiencing the most damaging health crisis ever to face our Nation. The only way to solve this problem is through collaboration. Law Enforcement cannot solve this. Medical
Saturday, October 15, 2016
Local Resources Fighting This Heroin Epidemic Battle
If you are like so many in this area due to the stigma about Heroin, Opiates and addiction you often don't know where to turn to for help.
This was posted on a Facebook Page from Debbie Hill Gray who locally is helping addicts and their families find treatment and healing from this addiction. If you live in Martinsburg, Berkeley County, Jefferson County and Morgan County you will find many resources locally to help.
If you love someone with an addiction problem, please reach out to anyone listed in this. If you yourself are an addict and are trying to find help for yourself please reach out. Debbie's post had the following resources:
"One of our Charles Town Nar-anon family lost their son to his battle with addiction last night. God knows I see losses daily across FB, but this one hit me hard. My heart is hurting so badly for them. He was very much loved by many people, but most of all his mom.
Please keep them in your prayers.
I felt I should provide some resources for ANYONE struggling with this disease or anyone with a loved one struggling with the disease. Even if you think your loved one does NOT want help, I assure you they usually DO. They just don't want to discuss their addiction with their family members due to the guilt and shame they feel. There should be no shame in this disease, but they still feel it. Most of the time your child will speak to someone they don't know about their addiction much quicker and easier than with their family and friends. THEY WANT HELP!
There are lots of people in our area reaching out to help with addiction. Some are moms, some are friends, some are in county positions, but there are resources available. I am listing them here again. PLEASE REACH OUT TO ANY RESOURCE LISTED FOR HELP:
Help4wv.com is the Governor's hotline, setup to help with WV's overwhelming addiction epidemic. They will help find a detox and hopefully treatment afterwards, even if there is a few day to week long wait. They have access to ALL treatment centers in our state and are available 24/7. They will arrange travel to the facility in most cases.
You can use their Internet site help4wv.com or call 844-435-7498.
Tina Burkey Stride and Lisa Melcher started a non-profit called The Hope Dealer Project and can also find treatment for addiction. Tina also facilitates a Nar-Anon group in Martinsburg on Sunday's. Here is the link to their page:
The Hope Dealer Project
Justin W. Ponton has a sober living network in Huntington, WV. There are many people willing to transport individuals wanting to go there. He cannot take anyone needing medically detoxed from alcohol or benzo's due to the danger of detoxing from these to my knowledge, but can after the detox from these. Justin can confirm this for you. His website is:
The Newness of Life
His phone number is: 304-972-6601
Tim Payne and his wife, Emily (I believe) run the non-profit, Turning Point of the Eastern Panhandle. Their website is:
Turning Point of the Eastern Panhandle
Katrin O'Leary is Vice President of: Magnolia New Beginnings, a 501c3 based in MA. Katrin resides in Florida.
Her website is: https://www.facebook.com/groups/553591441439612
Barbie Thrower is the Director of CRC in Florida, a Licensed Level III Substance abuse treatment center. Long term- 6 months to a year.
Barbie says: We are fighting hard to end this epidemic and remove the stigma of addiction!! Call 321-632-5958 or visit our website Ctcbrevard.com for additional information . God bless all who are in this fight together!
Although it is currently on hold for a short time, I facilitate a Nar-Anon group in Charles Town. I will be updating the site when active again, which I hope is soon. Here is the group's FB page for updates:
https://www.facebook.com/HopeforTomorrowCharlesTownWVNarA…/…
I also have a FB page just to share and post educational information about addiction and provide support. Anyone can reach out to me for help there or add educational content. The link is:
https://www.facebook.com/DrugAlcoholAddictionRecoveryAndF…/…
There are several support groups I recommend:
Katrin O'Leary facilitates a group for Addiction support, Magnolia New Beginnings, closed FB support group. Search for the group and request to join.
Kathleen W facilitates Covered With Love, a group comprised of people all over the country, coming together to help one another and their children. Search for the group and request to join.
I believe Dave Roberts and/or Cindy Everts facilitates "The Group", which is the group nobody ever wants to join. It is a support group for parents and siblings who've lost their children/sibling. They have personal gatherings also. Search for The Group and request to join.
Locally, Laura Haynes facilitates the Berkeley County Heroin Epidemic FB page, where you can find informational posts and support. Her link is:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/553591441439612/
Dee Stotelmyer Pierce facilitates the FB page Bikers Against Heroin WV Chapter. They do fundraisers to help the addiction community and provide other resources. Her link is:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/BAHwestva/
Cindy Koontz has a blog page and puts together community vigils along with James Boyd. I don't know the link to her blog.
Amanda Edwards and Casey Hershey facilitate a FB support page called Soberology. Search for it and request to join.
Kevin Knowles is the Berkeley County Resource Go-To, a very important resource. You can contact Kevin at 304-264-1923 or 304-676-7731
I've helped people on my own time for years, heavily for 18 months. I started after trying to find help for my son, with such a difficult time, I was on the phone forever with facilities trying to get him help and continually was told NO or ADD him to long waiting lists. Finally I found a company to help me. They did it all, including making his travel arrangements to California. Today Matthew is well, thank God! He's joined me in reaching out to help those struggling with addition.
We help with any resources including; help4wv.com, faith based programs, scholarships (when available), find an insurance broker to help them determine if eligible for a special enrollment for private health insurance, help them get into top, trustworthy treatment centers away from our area, talk to their family members -providing them resources such as, RENOVO Center and Nar-Anon, speak with their loved one struggling with addiction to convince them to get treatment-no matter how long it takes, provide travel to state facilities, help them find Suboxone Doctors, take them to the hospital, and simply just listen when needing to talk. We do whatever possible to help.
Recently, because of our outreach, we both had several job offers, which happens when you are doing outreach. After a long time and a lot of soul searching we accepted a "salary" position with the only company we trust to get people into trustworthy treatment centers. We refused to take money per person, such as body brokers do. We cannot and will NOT see someone struggling with addiction as a $ sign, so we simply help people find help, however that may be, including state, faith based, and scholarship programs. I assure you we are not getting rich, we are making a living as everyone does at their jobs. We are available anytime at all.
We work for Sober Services, run by an amazing man in recovery himself. He puts many resources back into communities and is starting a "Jail Initiative" to help those arrested for drug related crimes get treatment rather than jail. This is NOT an advertisement for his company, my son, or me. This is simply another resource just as those above.
Here is the link to the company website:
https://www.soberservices.org
He works with people all over the country. Matthew and I help with those in our area, but also any area in the country. Matthew Hammock can be reached at 304-886-8322, me at 304-820-5375.
Probably the most significant and new program available to our area is Melissa Swartz's (counselor) The RENOVO CENTER. Melissa was the only counselor in her office, but expanded her practice exponentially to help those struggling with addiction and their family members. She offers groups for family members on Tuesday evenings. She added case workers to help manage all phases of patient care. She added more counselors and has Suboxone/Vivatrol Doctors coming in November. She accepts Medicaid. I have referred many people to her, especially those who find inpatient treatment isn't something they can do or to help them in the interim until they can get into a treatment center.
I cannot say enough good about what Melissa has done for our community by expanding her practice.
Her website is:
The Renovo Center
https://www.facebook.com/The-Renovo-Center-LLC-1885343344…/…
Her office number is: 681-242-8819
I am certain there are more resources I haven't mentioned, so anyone with more, please post them.
PLEASE if you or a loved one needs help for addiction, reach out to any of these resources. We are losing too many lives over this epidemic!"
This was posted on a Facebook Page from Debbie Hill Gray who locally is helping addicts and their families find treatment and healing from this addiction. If you live in Martinsburg, Berkeley County, Jefferson County and Morgan County you will find many resources locally to help.
If you love someone with an addiction problem, please reach out to anyone listed in this. If you yourself are an addict and are trying to find help for yourself please reach out. Debbie's post had the following resources:
"One of our Charles Town Nar-anon family lost their son to his battle with addiction last night. God knows I see losses daily across FB, but this one hit me hard. My heart is hurting so badly for them. He was very much loved by many people, but most of all his mom.
Please keep them in your prayers.
I felt I should provide some resources for ANYONE struggling with this disease or anyone with a loved one struggling with the disease. Even if you think your loved one does NOT want help, I assure you they usually DO. They just don't want to discuss their addiction with their family members due to the guilt and shame they feel. There should be no shame in this disease, but they still feel it. Most of the time your child will speak to someone they don't know about their addiction much quicker and easier than with their family and friends. THEY WANT HELP!
There are lots of people in our area reaching out to help with addiction. Some are moms, some are friends, some are in county positions, but there are resources available. I am listing them here again. PLEASE REACH OUT TO ANY RESOURCE LISTED FOR HELP:
Help4wv.com is the Governor's hotline, setup to help with WV's overwhelming addiction epidemic. They will help find a detox and hopefully treatment afterwards, even if there is a few day to week long wait. They have access to ALL treatment centers in our state and are available 24/7. They will arrange travel to the facility in most cases.
You can use their Internet site help4wv.com or call 844-435-7498.
Tina Burkey Stride and Lisa Melcher started a non-profit called The Hope Dealer Project and can also find treatment for addiction. Tina also facilitates a Nar-Anon group in Martinsburg on Sunday's. Here is the link to their page:
The Hope Dealer Project
Justin W. Ponton has a sober living network in Huntington, WV. There are many people willing to transport individuals wanting to go there. He cannot take anyone needing medically detoxed from alcohol or benzo's due to the danger of detoxing from these to my knowledge, but can after the detox from these. Justin can confirm this for you. His website is:
The Newness of Life
His phone number is: 304-972-6601
Tim Payne and his wife, Emily (I believe) run the non-profit, Turning Point of the Eastern Panhandle. Their website is:
Turning Point of the Eastern Panhandle
Katrin O'Leary is Vice President of: Magnolia New Beginnings, a 501c3 based in MA. Katrin resides in Florida.
Her website is: https://www.facebook.com/groups/553591441439612
Barbie Thrower is the Director of CRC in Florida, a Licensed Level III Substance abuse treatment center. Long term- 6 months to a year.
Barbie says: We are fighting hard to end this epidemic and remove the stigma of addiction!! Call 321-632-5958 or visit our website Ctcbrevard.com for additional information . God bless all who are in this fight together!
Although it is currently on hold for a short time, I facilitate a Nar-Anon group in Charles Town. I will be updating the site when active again, which I hope is soon. Here is the group's FB page for updates:
https://www.facebook.com/HopeforTomorrowCharlesTownWVNarA…/…
I also have a FB page just to share and post educational information about addiction and provide support. Anyone can reach out to me for help there or add educational content. The link is:
https://www.facebook.com/DrugAlcoholAddictionRecoveryAndF…/…
There are several support groups I recommend:
Katrin O'Leary facilitates a group for Addiction support, Magnolia New Beginnings, closed FB support group. Search for the group and request to join.
Kathleen W facilitates Covered With Love, a group comprised of people all over the country, coming together to help one another and their children. Search for the group and request to join.
I believe Dave Roberts and/or Cindy Everts facilitates "The Group", which is the group nobody ever wants to join. It is a support group for parents and siblings who've lost their children/sibling. They have personal gatherings also. Search for The Group and request to join.
Locally, Laura Haynes facilitates the Berkeley County Heroin Epidemic FB page, where you can find informational posts and support. Her link is:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/553591441439612/
Dee Stotelmyer Pierce facilitates the FB page Bikers Against Heroin WV Chapter. They do fundraisers to help the addiction community and provide other resources. Her link is:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/BAHwestva/
Cindy Koontz has a blog page and puts together community vigils along with James Boyd. I don't know the link to her blog.
Amanda Edwards and Casey Hershey facilitate a FB support page called Soberology. Search for it and request to join.
Kevin Knowles is the Berkeley County Resource Go-To, a very important resource. You can contact Kevin at 304-264-1923 or 304-676-7731
I've helped people on my own time for years, heavily for 18 months. I started after trying to find help for my son, with such a difficult time, I was on the phone forever with facilities trying to get him help and continually was told NO or ADD him to long waiting lists. Finally I found a company to help me. They did it all, including making his travel arrangements to California. Today Matthew is well, thank God! He's joined me in reaching out to help those struggling with addition.
We help with any resources including; help4wv.com, faith based programs, scholarships (when available), find an insurance broker to help them determine if eligible for a special enrollment for private health insurance, help them get into top, trustworthy treatment centers away from our area, talk to their family members -providing them resources such as, RENOVO Center and Nar-Anon, speak with their loved one struggling with addiction to convince them to get treatment-no matter how long it takes, provide travel to state facilities, help them find Suboxone Doctors, take them to the hospital, and simply just listen when needing to talk. We do whatever possible to help.
Recently, because of our outreach, we both had several job offers, which happens when you are doing outreach. After a long time and a lot of soul searching we accepted a "salary" position with the only company we trust to get people into trustworthy treatment centers. We refused to take money per person, such as body brokers do. We cannot and will NOT see someone struggling with addiction as a $ sign, so we simply help people find help, however that may be, including state, faith based, and scholarship programs. I assure you we are not getting rich, we are making a living as everyone does at their jobs. We are available anytime at all.
We work for Sober Services, run by an amazing man in recovery himself. He puts many resources back into communities and is starting a "Jail Initiative" to help those arrested for drug related crimes get treatment rather than jail. This is NOT an advertisement for his company, my son, or me. This is simply another resource just as those above.
Here is the link to the company website:
https://www.soberservices.org
He works with people all over the country. Matthew and I help with those in our area, but also any area in the country. Matthew Hammock can be reached at 304-886-8322, me at 304-820-5375.
Probably the most significant and new program available to our area is Melissa Swartz's (counselor) The RENOVO CENTER. Melissa was the only counselor in her office, but expanded her practice exponentially to help those struggling with addiction and their family members. She offers groups for family members on Tuesday evenings. She added case workers to help manage all phases of patient care. She added more counselors and has Suboxone/Vivatrol Doctors coming in November. She accepts Medicaid. I have referred many people to her, especially those who find inpatient treatment isn't something they can do or to help them in the interim until they can get into a treatment center.
I cannot say enough good about what Melissa has done for our community by expanding her practice.
Her website is:
The Renovo Center
https://www.facebook.com/The-Renovo-Center-LLC-1885343344…/…
Her office number is: 681-242-8819
I am certain there are more resources I haven't mentioned, so anyone with more, please post them.
PLEASE if you or a loved one needs help for addiction, reach out to any of these resources. We are losing too many lives over this epidemic!"
Many thanks to Debbie for her time in putting this list of resources together.
I wanted to add to this that there are several recovering from their addiction who have joined in this fight to help other addicts. One of those people is
Click his name to go to his Facebook and message him on Facebook. If you are seeking help with your addiction, message Kyle.
Saturday, September 24, 2016
Beware Of Scams: Multimillion Dollar Indictment
This week in the local news the story came out about the seven local residents are accused of operating illegal bingo and raffles for a fraudulent charity known as Kids Against Drugs of W.V. Inc. and doing business as Big Bucks Bingo, according to an indictment announced this morning by U.S. Attorney William Ihlenfeld. The defendants were able to pocket over $7 million through the games, Ihlenfeld said.
I am not going to be judge and jury here on my blog but if this is all true and they used this as a means of scam to pad their pockets then yes they should have to pay.
For one, people are desperate in this town for answers and results to this heroin epidemic. Nothing is magical! But when you have an entity or group scamming that has anything to do with the words Kids or Drugs then yes in my opinion they should be brought to trial and their story unfold before a jury. This is unspeakable! We can't have people assuming scams under bogus names to pad their pockets with the proceeds and think that it is okay to do this.
Personally I have lived here my entire life and I want to know what this group Kids Against Drugs of WV, Inc. did FOR their group and for helping Kids and Promoting Kids Against Drugs. What did they do preventive and awareness? Most of us had never heard of them until this group was brought to the surface.
Read More @>>>>>>>>>> Seven Indicted In Apparent Multi-Million Dollar Scam
Link The Journal
Tuesday, August 30, 2016
Working Toward Real Solutions Extend Beyond The Village
I have been doing some Internet searches on Solutions to this Heroin Epidemic here in our community seeking out webpages from those in larger cities. Many of the larger cities have come up with some great ideas for solutions that are working in their communities. I seek and read just to see if our community is working on real solutions towards combatting
Monday, August 29, 2016
Can We Talk?
In the words of comedienne Joan Rivers, Can we talk? Can we talk and be honest with ourselves? Are we really doing enough here with this heroin epidemic in Berkeley County and Martinsburg?
Are we doing enough in the groups as far as all awareness; Community Awareness, Youth Awareness, etc...
Are we keeping this heroin epidemic in the forefront of our community making sure our local politicians are doing what is needed and what they have said they will do?
Are we finding the solutions to combat this problem here in Berkeley County and Martinsburg?
Really? Because...
Are we doing enough in the groups as far as all awareness; Community Awareness, Youth Awareness, etc...
Are we keeping this heroin epidemic in the forefront of our community making sure our local politicians are doing what is needed and what they have said they will do?
Are we finding the solutions to combat this problem here in Berkeley County and Martinsburg?
Really? Because...
Thursday, August 25, 2016
A Meetup: The Gateway To The Heroin Highway
Mr. James Boyd a local advocate against this heroin epidemic here in Martinsburg, West Virginia will be hosting an event here in Martinsburg on Saturday September 17th at 2:30 PM. This event will take place on the overpass to I-81 at the King St. Bridge. This bridge overlooks what has been dubbed as the Heroin Highway here in Berkeley County and Martinsburg, West Virginia.
James is requesting that all who can attend please come out and show support.
James says:
James is requesting that all who can attend please come out and show support.
James says:
Tuesday, August 23, 2016
Up For Discussion: Do We Need A Treatment Center/ Rehab In Berkeley County?
Several readers have emailed me in the past weeks asking about the Recovery Resource Center here in Martinsburg, West Virginia in which Councilman Kevin Knowles was appointed Community Recovery Resource Coordinator several months ago.
Readers are asking and wondering when this will open to the public.
The Resource Center will be located in the same building in which county tax payers go to pay their taxes. On the first floor of 400 W. Stephen St in Martinsburg, WV
Some of you may already know that the hubby and I was invited and was given a special tour of the center several months ago. It was still in the early stages of...
Readers are asking and wondering when this will open to the public.
The Resource Center will be located in the same building in which county tax payers go to pay their taxes. On the first floor of 400 W. Stephen St in Martinsburg, WV
Some of you may already know that the hubby and I was invited and was given a special tour of the center several months ago. It was still in the early stages of...
Monday, August 22, 2016
Recovery Is Possible
I have noticed for several months now that the stats for reading this blog is slowly rising. I often check out the stats as well as keywords. As a blogger these keywords are important to me to look at because it lets me see what readers are searching for here.
One keyword that shows up repetitively and to date tops the search list is
One keyword that shows up repetitively and to date tops the search list is
Wednesday, August 17, 2016
Live Happy: Families and Home
For the past few days of the Live Happy Challenges have been about parents and children and home.
I know there are several young parents who are afraid bringing their children up in the community around the drugs and this heroin epidemic. I know, they talk to me all of the time.
I just want all parents to know that You can do everything right and still have a child fall into the heroin or addiction trap. You can do everything wrong and have the child never try drugs.
Drugs and drug abuse has nothing to do with home and family and as much as people for years have blamed parents and made this look like a moral failing.
This... is a society failure. When heroin was first getting started here in the late nineties early two thousand, what was done to stop it?
Now that it is out of control, taking over our communities like a cancer what measures are in place to stop it's spread?
First and foremost our community politicians in all of these years never once offered the solution of a treatment center. Once they did a fight started and here we are today and still no real solutions in place.
Oh we can continue sending those addicted to far away places like is happening. It reminds me of the olden days of shaming when the young girl was unwed and pregnant so they sent her away in shame.
Society has criminalized the addicted so that even if they do stop using, recover and stay clean they have a hard time finding a job, a home. There is no help. There is no program of a relearning of sorts to get their lives back in order. There is only the devastation and hopelessness felt by addicts. This then leads to emotions of failure, depression, anger, disparity, confusion and this is how the cycle of addiction which can and does lead to relapse when they can't find a job, or they are homeless.
Our own son is five and a half hours away recovering. Although that day is far from today it is only six more months. Six months to worry about what will happen on that day. Honestly, I don't want him coming back here. For one the triggers live among us. AND Two we do not have the rest of the steps in place right here in our community.
I know I shouldn't worry. Six months is still a long time. June felt like it lasted five minutes so his time there will be up before we know it and I am scared.
I hope he finds a job where he is and I hope he choses to stay and live right where he is.
© 2016 Gossip Girl
I know there are several young parents who are afraid bringing their children up in the community around the drugs and this heroin epidemic. I know, they talk to me all of the time.
I just want all parents to know that You can do everything right and still have a child fall into the heroin or addiction trap. You can do everything wrong and have the child never try drugs.
Drugs and drug abuse has nothing to do with home and family and as much as people for years have blamed parents and made this look like a moral failing.
This... is a society failure. When heroin was first getting started here in the late nineties early two thousand, what was done to stop it?
Now that it is out of control, taking over our communities like a cancer what measures are in place to stop it's spread?
First and foremost our community politicians in all of these years never once offered the solution of a treatment center. Once they did a fight started and here we are today and still no real solutions in place.
Oh we can continue sending those addicted to far away places like is happening. It reminds me of the olden days of shaming when the young girl was unwed and pregnant so they sent her away in shame.
Society has criminalized the addicted so that even if they do stop using, recover and stay clean they have a hard time finding a job, a home. There is no help. There is no program of a relearning of sorts to get their lives back in order. There is only the devastation and hopelessness felt by addicts. This then leads to emotions of failure, depression, anger, disparity, confusion and this is how the cycle of addiction which can and does lead to relapse when they can't find a job, or they are homeless.
Our own son is five and a half hours away recovering. Although that day is far from today it is only six more months. Six months to worry about what will happen on that day. Honestly, I don't want him coming back here. For one the triggers live among us. AND Two we do not have the rest of the steps in place right here in our community.
I know I shouldn't worry. Six months is still a long time. June felt like it lasted five minutes so his time there will be up before we know it and I am scared.
I hope he finds a job where he is and I hope he choses to stay and live right where he is.
© 2016 Gossip Girl
Friday, August 5, 2016
What Is WV Conditional Discharge?
Some of you may be wondering just what is conditional discharge?
I know I am as I have never heard of it before.
Another question I have about it is, if West Virginia has conditional discharge why is there no other plan in place? For instance for treatment right here in Martinsburg and Berkeley County?
What about counselling? There is no suggestion that someone seek counselling for addiction problems and behaviors.
Read the law: §60A-4-407. Conditional discharge for first offense of possession
I know I am as I have never heard of it before.
Another question I have about it is, if West Virginia has conditional discharge why is there no other plan in place? For instance for treatment right here in Martinsburg and Berkeley County?
What about counselling? There is no suggestion that someone seek counselling for addiction problems and behaviors.
Read the law: §60A-4-407. Conditional discharge for first offense of possession
Wednesday, August 3, 2016
Local Candidate For Sheriff Arrested For Heroin
As the news broke yesterday about Mr. John Orem who is running for Berkeley County Sheriff in November and was arrested for heroin possession my Facebook exploded. As I read comment after comment I also felt somewhat sad for his family because they too are on our side of the addiction.
As Matt Umstead, from the Herald Mail reported yesterday,
As Matt Umstead, from the Herald Mail reported yesterday,
Thursday, July 28, 2016
Drug Treatment Access
One of the biggest problems right now in Berkeley County and Martinsburg West Virginia is that we have no treatment center right here.
Those of us who have been able to get our loved ones into treatment comes at the cost of families who have to send their loved ones hundreds of miles away. Our own son is five and a half
Those of us who have been able to get our loved ones into treatment comes at the cost of families who have to send their loved ones hundreds of miles away. Our own son is five and a half
Wednesday, July 27, 2016
Drug Overdose and Preventable Death
I just heard on a news report that in this country overdose deaths are exceeding the number of car crash fatalities. When I heard that report given first it was of no surprise really. I thought, WOW that is just the craziest because accidental overdose death are preventable.
Currently here in Berkeley County
Currently here in Berkeley County
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