Media and Reports of Rx Drug Abuse

During the surge of media coverage about the health epidemic of prescription drug abuse, I feel it is important to remember the tremendous positive response from those committed to extinguishing the fires of addiction. Some of the recent exposure has made people think nothing good is happening in Scioto County. Conversely, I believe more "good" is occurring today than at any other time in recent memory. It's time for some uplifting news!

It is true -- the media has given much more attention to the sad state of affairs than to the positive gains that have been made over the last two years and to the growing, committed groups of citizens who have stepped forward to help fight the problem. I feel qualified to assure anyone who might listen that great progress is being made on all fronts. I also feel sure that this progress will continue and that Scioto County will experience much brighter days in the near future.

My sincere hope is that everyone here will take an active role in bettering the community. This is a tall order and perhaps more of a distant vision than an immediate objective. The public needs to understand that most citizens do not take an active role until they have a personal stake in the movement.

This lack of involvement is partly human nature and partly procrastination. Such inaction has been a prime factor in the establishment of such a stronghold of  addiction and distribution. Some truly didn't know the problem was so bad while others chose to follow the old "they're not talking about my people" mentality.

It's much too late to worry about the past and dwell on "what used to be." These fruitless actions will not  solve the problems of today. And, of course, they will do nothing to build new confidence and new enthusiasm for working toward improvement. The town, the county, the entire region needs to refuse the bonds of those who use negativity to enslave the populace of Appalachia in addiction. They feed the pessimism with words like depressed and uneducated and lazy. Dealers and bad doctors depend upon states of misery and hardship to do their evil work.

I must be honest and confess I have lost patience with many who expect someone from outside or some agency of government to roll into Scioto County and cleanse the area. Many outside forces have had great positive effects on the county, but Scioto is ultimately responsible for its own fate. I'm sure many residents are getting tired of hearing about the ills of abuse in deference to talk about community development or employment. But, in reality, I think the extent of the rx drug problem is directly related to the success of all betterment. I believe the media should focus on intervention and hope and give equal attention to the positive strides that have been made.

The individual makes the tiny ripples that turn into the waves of alteration that produce the best results. I have seen a handful (by my estimation) of people have a marked influence because of their sheer determination to succeed. They believe in what they are doing, and they have faith that "doing the right thing" will benefit all.

Some of these individuals are old warriors who have already experienced many victories and losses, and others are new combatants, eager to enter the fight, armed with fresh, innovative ideas. None of them expect to see thousands of supporters in the streets of Portsmouth demanding overnight change. Instead, they understand the necessity of taking personal action and of contributing to a modest team effort.

After a score of meetings and events, each person knows the players well. The movement itself creates a solid bond among the participants. Surely some good-natured competition drives the efforts of individual members, but I think any healthy, active congregation depends upon this type of activity. The key to success is understanding that no member is bigger than the group. Sorry for the cliche about teamwork, but I know no other way to express the cohesiveness of the movement.

I have never been so proud of my county as today. People here are finding out that standing up and showing grit and determination can produce wonderful results. Amid cries of "a whole town addicted" I know the truth of the life-saving surgery being conducted. Some might use the melodramatic phrase "in the nick of time" to describe the actions of the movement, and let them do so. To me, a win is a win, and I know the team is winning.

The rest of the nation is now realizing what Scioto County knew years ago. That realization is that criminals and greedy profiteers will infest an area that sleeps through bad times. Part of their plan is to suck the lifeblood of every beloved feature of the community -- including the minds, the hearts, and the souls of all good people.

If I were a person with sufficient desire to join the effort against rx abuse, I would expect to do the following things:

1. Find good, factual information and educate yourself and your loved ones about the problem.

2. Join the Facebook group of Fix the Scioto County Problem of Drug Abuse, Misuse, and Overdose at https://www.facebook.com/home.php?sk=group_329651420196 so you can follow developments, find schedules of events, and access instant information.

3. Take inventory of your own skills and determine how best you can become active and help fight the problem of drug abuse.

4. Attend meetings that keep you informed about current events such as the Scioto Rx Drug Task Force Action Team meeting.

5. Begin an active role as a committed member of the Scioto Rx Drug Task Force Action Team. 

6. Talk with your friends about what they can do to help.

Got Money? Loving It?

"Let me ask you one question
Is your money that good
Will it buy you forgiveness
Do you think that it could
I think you will find
When your death takes it's toll
All the money you made
Will never buy back your soul."
"Masters of War"
Bob Dylan

"For what is a man profited,
if he shall gain the whole world,
and lose his own soul?"
-Matthew 16:26

I think everybody, to some extent, loves money. Perhaps love is not the best term to describe the relationship most have with the medium of exchange, but for those who can't control their hungry desires, "tender affection" (excuse the pun) or even "adoration"  and money go hand in hand.

As people feel a strong desire to acquire more and more money as a means of attaining the material goods they perceive reward them with a grand lifestyle and great prestige, they often fall victim to greed. Greed consumes those who exhibit excessive admiration for currency. An unhealthy relationship with money develops as their desire becomes insatiable. Simply put, too much money is never enough.

Psychologists Lea and Webley believe that money, like nicotine or cocaine, can activate the brain's pleasure centers, the neurological pathways that make biologically beneficial activities such as sex feel so rewarding. Money might work in a similar way to pornographic text, which can cause arousal not by giving any biochemical or physiological stimuli, but acting through the mind and emotions. (Stephen E.G. Lea & Paul Webley, "Money as Tool, Money as Drug: The Biological Psychology of a Strong Incentive," Behavioral and Brain Sciences 29, 2006)

Brain imaging studies show some interesting findings concerning money. In one experiment, a team led by Samuel McClure, a psychologist at Princeton University, asked volunteers to choose between receiving a voucher for Amazon.com immediately or wait a few weeks later for a higher-value voucher. Those who chose the instant reward showed brain activity in the areas linked with emotion, especially the limbic system, which is known to be involved in much impulsive behavior and drug addiction. Those choosing the delayed reward showed activity in areas such as the prefrontal cortex known to be involved in rational planning (Samuel McClure, "Separate Neural Systems Value Immediate and Delayed Monetary Rewards," Science 306, October 2004)

So, is the love of money an addiction? I think it can be. It most certainly can become a compulsive need for and use of a habit-forming substance. Money certainly acts as a substance that can influence the habits of anyone. At first, a simple desire to acquire it seems harmless. Yet, to some, the acquisition becomes so important that they break laws and moral codes to extend their wealth. These people begin to cheat and lie and to use others to increase their prosperity. Some do not care about the fallout of their covetous behaviors.

It seems when people have acquired a large amount of money above their expenditures for necessities, they often feel the added pressures of this acquisition. The need for self-satisfaction, the need to gain acceptance, the need to indulge oneself, the need to establish an image, the need to gain power -- all of these may weigh on decisions about what to do with sums of money. The world teems with those all too ready to map the routes to procurement of any of these needs for someone with enough ready cash.

Is money the root of all evil? I don't really believe so, but that is a matter best left for Biblical scholars and for those with critical minds. People seek money and work for it. It provides for needs and desires. Only when money becomes a "god" does it become a malignancy. Then, those who worship it suffer as greed consumes their lives.

This verse from Matthew 24 seems to describe the proper relationship of a person with money. "No one can serve two masters. Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and Money." 

 

I marvel at the great possessions of so many. I know people work so hard to accumulate wealth, and I respect their initiative and tremendous industry. Still, sometimes I see the results of their labor -- the grand houses, the expensive automobiles, the flamboyant people "toys" and wonder about wantonness. 

 

Is restraint a quality that is even admired today? Is the desire to possess luxuries overriding the good common sense of those who live in America? Maybe a little "love of money" does rest within us all. I am willing to accept that reality. Yet, I can't help but wonder what a world less consumed by financial gain might be like.

"Riches may enable us to confer favors, 

but to confer them with propriety and grace 

requires a something that riches cannot give."
-Charles Caleb Colton

 

 

Do-Not-Track Online Act -- Privacy If You Want It

This information is contained in the Weekly Update (May 28, 2011) from the office of Ohio Senator Sherrod Brown. I have written several posts about Internet tracking and public concerns. I believe this update is informative and timely. It is important to understand the real nature of modern communications. I think the news is well worth sharing.

As new technologies appear, new opportunities spring forth. The Internet and some popular communication devices have made it easier for companies to track consumers and for criminals to pursue children. Facebook, Google, and other popular websites collect computer users’ personal information. Applications on so-called smartphones – like the Blackberry and iPhone – can also track a caller’s location using Global Positioning System (GPS) technology.

GPS is available to any private user, including marketing and research firms.While marketing companies can use one’s location to create targeted advertisements, stalkers and abusers can use this information for more sinister reasons.

In fact, a 2009 Department of Justice report found that about one out of every nine domestic violence survivors was stalked or harassed using GPS technology, which is present in many smartphones. Recent reports from the Wall Street Journal to PC World have outlined how GPS is “a stalker’s best friend.”

Consumers, children, and survivors of stalking and domestic abuse have a right to privacy.

Legislation

Leslie from Cincinnati wrote a brief, yet precise letter: “Please sponsor legislation to prevent companies from tracking me when I am online.”

Ohioans like Leslie should have the right to decide if they want to share their private information. And Ohioans should be able to keep their children safe from online predators.

Earlier this month, Senator Brown met with representatives from the Ohio Domestic Violence Network in Cleveland to address a solution to this problem. He is supporting legislation that would protect all users of the Internet and smartphones.

The Do-Not-Track Online Act of 2011 would give consumers privacy safeguards and includes the added benefit of helping protect people who experience domestic abuse and stalking.

This bill would protect Internet and smartphone consumers from having their personal information or data shared with businesses, and also help domestic abuse and stalking survivors stay undetected by the criminals who pursue them. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC), the agency responsible for administering the “Do Not Call” Registry, would establish standards similar to the “Do Not Call” list to implement the Do-Not-Track database.

Internet websites and smartphone applications would be prohibited from collecting personal information from individuals who have opted-out by making their Do-Not-Track preference known. Both the FTC and state attorneys general would enforce the Do-Not-Track law.

Simply put, this legislation would prevent Internet and smartphone users from having their location tracked without their knowledge or consent.

The Voice of the People

Eileen from Strongsville wrote, “I worry that my searches, purchases, emails and other online activity are being tracked, and that information about me is held by companies I don’t know anything about. I want to be able to control the way my information is collected and used online, and regain some privacy when I surf the web.”

In addition to concerned Ohioans like Leslie and Eileen, the Ohio Domestic Violence Network, the American Civil Liberties Union, Consumers Union, Consumer Federation of America, the Center for Digital Democracy, and other consumer protection groups support this bill.

Senator Brown believes librarians in Akron, retirees in Zanesville, and students in Cincinnati should have the right to decide if they want to share private information –including the books they buy online, the financial options they research, and the neighborhoods they frequent.

Modern technology shouldn’t interfere with America’s age-old guarantee to privacy.

This is Senator Brown's address for more information: http://brown.senate.gove.

Senator Sherrod Brown
713 Hart Senate Office Bldg.
Washington, DC 20510
p (202) 224-2315
f (202) 228-6321

Conclusion

I, quite frankly, am shocked at the Facebook posts of many people. Their willingness to share almost any bit of private information dumbfounds me. Although the means are available to personally message Facebook friends, some post their most private thoughts, movements, photos, and vital information in full view of all Facebook friends and users. The trust they perceive is not guaranteed. They simply proceed on blind faith.

I hope the Do-Not-Track law proves to be an effective tool. As I wonder what information people really want to keep private, I believe individuals should educate themselves concerning the risks of sharing personal data and messages. We live in an "instant message" society now. It seems people get so caught up in the desire to share every moment of their lives that they throw caution to the proverbial wind. I wonder about the need for such constant updates and notices. Do many even care about their rights to privacy? I think they should.

Is It a Pill Mill? How Do You Know?

The information here is from "Grand Rounds," a report from the State Medical Board of Ohio. (Special Issue -- May 2011)  

People in Ohio have been arguing for years about the difference between the monikers "pill mill" and "pain management clinic." Thanks to the State Medical Board of Ohio, the public can view a clear definition of a pain clinic. With the passage of HB 93, Medical and Pharmacy Boards will have greater ability to take administrative action against rogue pain clinics (pill mills). Passage of HB 93 is a wonderful step forward - what a great, needed bill.

HB 93 Takes These Important Steps


* Requiring licensure of facilities/practices meeting the definition of "pain management clinic" established in the bill;


* Requiring physician ownership of pain management clinics;


* Limiting the amount of controlled subtances a prescriber may personally furnish to a patient; and


* Authorizing the Medical Board to adopt rules setting standards for prescribing controlled substances.

HB 93 requires a facility operating as a pain management clinic to be licensed by the Pharmacy Board as a terminal distributor of dangerous drugs with a pain management classification.

HB 93 also requires the physician owner/operator of a pain management clinic to supervise the activities of the clinic and the employees working at the facility. Failure to appropriately supervise employees, or failure to meet the practice and operational standards established in HB 93, are ground for disciplinary action by the Medical Board.

HB 93 requires the Medical Board to adopt rules establishing standards to be followed by a physician regarding the review of patient information available through OARRS. While most of the provisions in HB 93 relate to physicians practicing in pain management clinics, the Medical Board's proposed rule (4731-11-11) impacts all physicians who prescribe controlled substances in schedules II, III, IV, and V, and/or drugs containing carisoprodol, or tramadol.

Defining "Pain Management Clinic"

HB 93 defines a pain management clinic as a facility to which the following apply:


* A primary component of practice is treatment of pain or chronic pain;

* The majority of patients of the prescribers at the facility are provided treatment for pain or chronic pain that includes the use of controlled substances, tramadol, carisoprodol, or other drugs specified in rules adopted by the Medical Board; and

* The facility meets any other indentifying criteria established in rules adopted by the Medical Board.


HB 93 exempts hospitals, specified educational institutions/programs; licensed hospice programs and licensed ambulatory surgical facilities from the licensure requirement.


Proposed Rule -- Sets Standards and Procedures For Operation of a Pain Management Clinic

HB 93 requires the Medical Board to adopt rules related to the standards and procedures for the operation of and provision of care at a pain management clinic. The law also requires the Board to establish standards and procedures to be followed by an owner in providing supervision, direction, and control of individuals at a pain management clinic. (Proposed rule 4731-29-01)

The proposed rule requires each physician providing care at a pain management clinic to hold staff membership at a local hospital with admitting or consulting privileges and to hold board certification or meet one of the equivalencies listed in paragraph (D) (5) of the rule.

Doctors who meet the criteria listed in paragraph (D) (2) or (D) (5) of the rule are also required to complete at least 20 hours of Category I CME in pain management every two years.

Further, rule 4731-29-01 requires the physician owner of a pain management clinic to maintain a log of all patients, develop a quality assurance system, verify staff credentials on an annual basis, and maintain billing records and patient records for seven years.

Conclusion

HB 93 is the culmination of the hard work of Ohio legislators, health officials, enforcement agencies, and many others at the grass roots level. Once the problem of prescription drug abuse was identified and carefully studied, the public supplied tremendous support to insure timely passage of the bill in the wake of a terrible health epidemic. Thanks God HB 93 had the benefit of being labeled an "emergency" measure. Thank you, sponsors David Burke, Danny Bubp, and David Burke.

Reading and understanding the requirements, standards, and lawful procedures of a legitimate pain management clinic should be the first step in public awareness concerning rx drug abuse. Understanding the law is essential. The State Medical Board of Ohio protects and enhances the health and welfare of Ohio's citizens through the effective regulation of more than 62,000 licensees.

The knowledge above is extremely important, but each piece of effective legislation requires the charges of vigilance, reporting, and action. To believe that even the most effective legislation will eradicate a problem rooted in greed and deceit is ridiculous. Malpractice will continue. Abuse will continue. Sadly, addiction will continue. 

Armed with the tool of HB 93, Ohio can effectively combat the largest sources of distribution. Still, the citizens of the Buckeye State must stand firm against rx abuse and vow to take measures as individuals to insure a better future, a future that insures safe and prosperous living.

A word of caution should be given. Those who understand the criminal mind also understand that offenders will soon discover new methods to continue their trades. HB 93 is landmark legislation, a huge victory against rx abuse; however, it also is a clearly drawn line that the "bad guys" seek to erase. As people concerned about the common good, we all must re-evaluate strategies and continue to battle the epidemic. Perhaps, as the tap root of the cancer dies, we should double our efforts against other stems of the disease.

Giving the County a Black Eye

Any process of labeling people or places is fraught with generality. Who is really "wealthy" or "poor," or what people are actually "right" or "wrong"? What geographical areas are accurately described as "depressed" or "thriving," or what municipality is sufficiently "emblematic" or "ideal"? Most often, labeling involves stereotyping in that the labels involve assumptions that people make about the characteristics of all members of a group.

Stereotyping can be very problematic in conflicts. Groups tend to define themselves according to who they are and who they are not. And their opponents are often viewed in very negative ways. Face it - an opponent is  expected to be aggressive, self-serving, and deceitful. People in one's own group are seen in generally positive ways. Similarly, if problems occur, blame is often placed on "the enemy."

The media does often work in stereotypical formats. Media stereotypes are legion, and they are inevitable, especially in the advertising, entertainment and news industries, which need as wide an audience as possible to quickly understand information. These stereotypes act like codes that give audiences a quick, common understanding of a person or group of people—usually relating to their class, ethnicity or race, gender, sexual orientation, social role or occupation.

Lately, much talk has arisen about the media's portrayal of Scioto County. The problem of prescription drug abuse has captured the attention of local, state, and national news services. The media has widely exposed the epidemic of rx drug abuse, and now some Scioto citizens are growling that the reports are doing very little other than painting the county as a negative, dangerous place to live. These people fear jobs and housing markets will suffer needlessly because labels such as "drug infested area" or "addiction prone community" will dominate the understanding of others as pessimistic stereotypes of the county.

The new transparency has created some problems of identity. However, the distressing statistics and the horrible reality of the situation in the county cannot be denied. I know of no one here who relishes news stories and commentaries that create sad visibility.

The fact is that the problems in the county have been tabled too long, and now shock and awe is unavoidable. The media is in the ratings business, so their concentration on the gory details feeds the curiosity of their hungry audience. And, we all realize that headlines focus mainly on misfortune while ignoring positive efforts that relieve many heartbreaks in tragic situations.

Many have complained about the coverage of A&E Intervention and a conceived negative light portrayed through its focus on two actual addictions. One must remember that the content of the show was directed and produced by A&E, not by the Scioto Rx Drug Task Force or by any local group committed to fighting drug abuse. I'm sure many positive aspects of the struggle against addiction would have not hit the cutting room floor if those involved in the movement here would have been in charge of the composition.

Another label that is currently being debated is "faith-based." I have heard that some are genuinely concerned that the movement to improve conditions in the county is too involved with faith-based efforts at the expense of pushing more secular initiatives. I assume people who have this opinion have reason to distrust certain prayerful groups.

In response, I can attest that the Scioto Rx Drug Task Force has been energized beyond measure with the addition of its faith-based organizations. The faith-based leadership and their flocks have provided much essential focus and vital energy in some pretty dark hours. Not merely content with staying behind the pulpits or in the pews, these reverent individuals take their positive message to the streets. The result has been a phenomenal outpouring of love. I discount those who question faith-based motives; I believe these people systematize with some measure of selfish attainment.

I guess labeling honest reports as "mudslinging journalism" or labeling good Christian efforts as "Bible-thumping evangelism" will continue. It's not that I do understand those with concerns who question - I do. I merely beg those who stereotype to expose themselves firsthand to the positive, much-needed efforts that already exist. The goal is not to denigrate Scioto County or to pose for a photo op. Public exposure has always been considered necessary as a primary step towards fixing the problems, but it is not an end in itself.

The truth is that positive change is afoot. Each segment of the movement is tightly connected and keenly focused on a common goal - to save lives while making Scioto County a safer, better place to work and live. The beauty of the grass roots movement lies in the diversity of its members. To label its members or its efforts as "negative" does it a disservice.

To say that the news of the health epidemic is harmful, in some measures, to the county is really something very difficult to judge. That judgment is reserved for those who insist on analyzing the headlines. The intent of those bent on revealing the truth has nothing to do with giving Scioto "a black eye." Rather, the intent of allowing visibility is to grant access to the real core of the problem. As the underbelly is revealed, the real causes of consumption can be attacked. That battle is being fought on many fronts as I type these words.

   

Hendrix - Cincinnati, November 15, 1968

Elvis, the Beatles, Madonna, Michael Jackson, Bob Dylan, Sammy Davis Jr., Tom Petty, Neil Diamond, Grateful Dead, Pink Floyd, Kinks, Alice Cooper, Metallica, Bon Jovi, Pearl Jam – and even Lawrence Welk.
All of these performers have played the Cincinnati Gardens.

Frank Messer & Sons general contractors constructed the Gardens on 22 acres in Cincinnati’s north for a cost of $3 million. It was modeled after the popular and historic Maple Leaf Gardens in Toronto, Ontario. The design had no interior pillars or columns obstructing sight lines.

At the time of its opening in 1949, Cincinnati Gardens was the seventh largest indoor arena in the U.S. with a seating capacity of 11,000.

Many remember the Gardens as home of the NBA Cincinnati Royals that sported stars such as Oscar Robertson, Jerry Lucas, Sam Lacey and Nate “Tiny” Archibald. The Royals played there from 1958-1972. The Royals franchise still exists today as the Sacramento Kings.

My Number One Garden Memory

I remember Cincinnati Gardens as the site of the first big rock concert I ever attended on November 15, 1968. At the time, our small group of friends left Lucasville, Ohio, relishing the road trip to Cincy nearly as much as the opportunity to see the Jimi Hendrix Experience in concert. We attached no particular significance to the event other than we were young dudes on a mission with a unique opportunity to see what the Hendrix Experience was all about. We were young high school students and we were all about Jimi.

We had all purchased the 8-track tape of the album Are You Experienced, and we had already driven countless miles around our hometown in Southern Ohio accompanied by the unearthly sounds of "Purple Haze" and "Foxy Lady" and "Hey Joe." We had already been exposed to the footage of Monterey Pop and Jimi's famous guitar-burning ritual. And, naturally, we all had marveled at Jimi's guitar theatrics and amazing showmanship. But, this, our first true road trip together was special because it represented a rite of passage in the sense that we were 17 years-old, carefree, and entrusted to the wild spirit of rock and roll.

I remember we first stopped at a home in Cincinnati, a residence of a relative of one of our concert group. We had a good visit and headed to the Gardens. We parked and headed inside amid the large crowd. Like giddy children at an amusement park, we inhaled the sights and sounds of a major rock concert venue.We were too busy living the moment to buy souvenirs or to realize that we should savor (and preserve) the Hendrix Experience. I'm pretty sure no one took a photo or bought a program.

Hendrix at the Gardens. (By Richard Randy Chase?)

I really can't recall the set list. It wasn't that important at the time. Today, I am told, the set list included the following:

 - Johnny B. Goode
- Are You Experienced?
- Stone Free
- Red House
- Foxy Lady
- I Feel Fine
- Hey Joe
- The Star Spangled Banner 
- Purple Haze
 
The show was outstanding -- loud, heavy, and full of memorable Hendrix moments. Not one of us took drugs or acted crazy or charged the stage. We were there to see Jimi and to hear the Experience -- period. To us, Jimi was everything "groovy" and the legitimate sound of our times. Our attendance at the concert validated our "cool." We became experienced.

The concert ended and we drove back to our small hometown with some new memories rattling around our juvenile heads. Of course, once back home, our 8-track tapes became our personal soundtrack as we slid them into the players and recounted our concert experience with all our friends who didn't attend.

According to posts on JimiHendrix.com/encyclopedia, the concert was the last time that Cincinnati fans saw Jimi Hendrix live in Cincinnati before his death September 18, 1970. Jimi Hendrix died in London that day. The official cause of death was inhalation of vomit after barbiturate intoxication.

I am very saddened by the early death of Jimi Hendrix. In a way, I feel cheated of a lifetime of new music and new musical directions. Yet, I will always cherish my Cincinnati Gardens concert memories of 1968. I still listen to Jimi Hendrix and thrill to his great, innovative soul. I think I understand what this alien with a guitar was doing -- he was paving the way for so many other rock guitarists to experiment and push the boundaries of their music. I was just a young man when I saw Hendrix. I guess I'm eternally green and boyish in the memory.

Reported to be Jimi at Cincy Gardens, 1968.

"Look a golden winged ship is passing my way

And it really didn't have to stop, it just kept on going...

And so castles made of sand melt into the sea, eventually"

-Jimi Hendrix, "Castles Made of Sand"
 

I Know Who's Involved

"I have heard things you just wouldn't believe."
AND
"I know this person was telling the truth about the situation."
AND
"Why would anyone lie about such a thing?"
AND
"What my friend told me was true, and it would just make you sick."

Charge after charge after charge. To hear people talk, no one should trust any other individual these days. Rumors and tales and stories run rampant on the streets of this town. People think they can "connect" every public official and every civil service with every criminal in my small community. Their long memories are often short on specific detail and facts but that doesn't prevent them from talking and speculating and digging more dirt.

He's Politically Dirty.

Party politics play a huge part in this game of distrust. People are divided into political parties by rigid lines of allegiance. And, many do reason with "group think" mentality. These people accept without question every party view. Numbers give them an illusion of right in might. Party members often view the opposition as an enemy that spreads false, misleading information.

Merely belonging to the opposing party can be enough to get a person accused of misconduct. The Crats are out to get the Publicans and vice versa. And, the old cliche of "birds of a feather" reminds the populace of myriads of potentially sticky situations.

Folks cannot seem to fathom that individuals can and do break these party lines and operate as independent thinkers and doers.

He's Protecting His Family Members.

Of course, families strike strict codes of allegiance. Families tend to protect their members even when certain kin stray from the fold and get off the right track. The family unit can close ranks when necessary to prevent unwanted access and to restrict information. Or, it can conveniently dismiss the misdeeds of black sheep as something less nasty than others perceive. Enter cries of "Cover up!"

Often, when the public finds a member of a prominent family doing some very bad things, they demand complete visibility of all relations and their connections. In fact, many times witch hunts are launched to discover any little speck of dirty laundry worn by any member of a scorned family. Specks can become monstrous stains when viewed through the public eye.

He's A Part Of The Big Picture.

Locals connect dots and find associations that disturb them. They question why anyone in a position of power, justice, or influence would associate or conduct business with undesirables. Sometimes committing the error of assuming guilt by association, people postulate conspiracy theories. They run with loose facts and rumors while trying to grasp the enormity of a problem.

People love to believe conspiracies concerning any public official - the higher the position, the stronger the appeal to the masses. Some truth usually buttresses conspiracy theories. Unfortunately, most conjectures are a mishmash of "maybes."

Everybody Knows He's A Bad Man.

A mob can create enormous emotion. People prefer to believe what they hear instead of taking time to actively verify an accusation. This happens because verification takes quite a long time and can be exceedingly difficult. The quest for the truth requires hard work, and many people, by nature, are just plain too lazy to labor.

Also, these days, spin doctors and analysts spew more opinion than fact. The public is quick to accept the views of any reasonable, attractive, credible-looking talking head. Too often folks accept looks and emotion over matter. They rally to the bandwagon to ride with like thinkers.

Even when people have first-hand, honest information, they often refuse to submit the material because of fear or because they think the system is inherently evil.

Intimidation weighs heavy on potential victims' shoulders. This burden is real and dangerous.

Distrust of authority is usually based on some prior incident that has left a sour taste or on some group discussions affirming a mishandling of justice. Yet through this distrust, the same public demands that authority serve them well in times of personal need.

What Am I 'Spost To Do 'Bout It? 

Wouldn't it be wonderful if everyone could take the reins of his/her own horse and travel Happy Trails that lead to truth and justice? We all would be responsible, intelligent individuals taking care of each other. Well, unfortunately Roy Rogers has left the building. (And, I heard Trigger was stuffed and on display somewhere.)

Here is what I want to say today. Quit bellyaching, get moving, and get an education about any issue that seriously affects your life. Don't expect any problem to disappear until you exhaust your own resources in your own efforts to make it go away. Always look and listen, but always be wary of speculation and rumor. As you discover the extent of the mess and get closer to the truth, take positive steps toward resolution.

 

Doomsday, May 21, 2011

Doomsday, May 21, 2011

The time has come to say our last goodbyes
As quakes and floods and waves destroy the ball.
And God takes aim at bad and wicked lives
And lifts the true converts from final fall.

No one can tell what may be left behind.
What forms of life may roam the new expanse?
Your guess or hunch is just as good as mine
When gone are boys and girls and sweet romance.

I hope I fly to live on some fresh turf
Instead of die as mulch for some old sphere.
But since I can't control the winds or surf,
I plan to raise a glass and stay right here.

I can't complain about my time on Earth.
I chose the script and played the part each day.
If you can judge my heart or draw my worth,
Feel free to write the book and draw the pay.

So Lord just let the end bring down the house
With shock and awe on us who fill the stage.
Give us an act that's gentle as a mouse
But builds as lion's roam and roar and rage.

And, if you find you must delay the show,
Make sure we all can get a last rain check.
The Apocalypse can generate big dough
When those who stir it up revive the wreck.

The Rent To Live Here

People need to understand that it takes an entire community to effect change. Small groups of individuals can have a certain degree of success; however, nothing is stronger and more effective than united, mass movement in a positive direction. Grass roots activism requires work, and social improvement requires sweat from all residents to achieve the labor needed to build new and better conditions.

The down and dirty chores that must be completed to make change a reality become so much easier to do when all with a stake in the matter contribute their individual talents. True, David did slay Goliath with the help of God. But, in our county, even with the grace of God, no one person or no one small group can be successful in defeating a large enemy that is so well entrenched. The imperative is that we all rise and take pertinent actions to defeat the deadly beast of prescription drug abuse.

One overriding question that is continually posed to those already active in the struggle is -- "What can I do, personally, to help?"

The answer is "many, many things." Minimal participation requires educating oneself about the problem. Beyond that crucial process and issuing statements of support is the real nitty-gritty, the bottom line. Joining a group and participating in group activities is essential. Still, an individual group member can do many other things to help procure change.

Today, the blog entry explores some of the best methods for total involvement in the movement.

Convert Friends

You can become active by converting friends to a cause. Does converting friends reach out to masses? Probably not, but it certainly has a high rate of success. Consider the tremendous boost that one or two new, committed activists can provide. And, if all current members would reach out to just one friend, membership roles would surely burgeon. Face it, some require a bandwagon to ride. Just ask any politician.

Hit the Streets  

Lord knows the Scioto Rx Task Force Action Team has planned and executed plenty of activities all over Scioto County in the last couple years. These activities do not immediately convert as many people as desired, but they do raise awareness. Every time the group does "hit the streets," hundreds of people witness the activity. Whether the group attending an event is small or large, shock waves emanate from the assemblage. Awareness is so important. You will be amazed at the natural curiosity you will develop when you go public.

Petitioning

A petition (including statement of position and desired outcomes) with signatures can be effective. When you write the petition, keep some important things in mind. The petition should be relatively brief and explicitly clear in design. A signature on a petition should be legible, dated, and signed only by the party supporting the position. Give prior consideration to the recipient(s) of a petition. You must choose the best possible target for your call to action.

Personal Outreach

Writing letters to the editor, e-mailing and calling officials is something everyone can do with little effort. You probably won't see the immediate impact of stating your personal opinion. Often, targeted officials collect all information and thoroughly analyze it before they reply with what they consider to be an appropriate response. Unfortunately many replies are standardized form letters - this is the nature of the game. But, the volume of individual responses is often the key to the amount of attention personal correspondence actually generates. Of course, personal, factual writing can produce great results also.

Lobbying Government

The process of influencing public and government policy can mean doing considerable political work. This means understanding all the regulatory and political bodies that can affect an issue. It is important to "speak the language" when lobbying. Sacha Deshmukh, chief executive of Mandate Communications, said, adding: “If you want to talk about your issues to a politician, think about how to explain it in the context of the policies and the voters that matter to them.” (Braniac, "How to Effectively Lobby an Elected Official or Legislator," www.ehow.com, 1999-2011)

Every politician worries about being re-elected, and they know the happier their constituency, the more likely their own re-election. All elected officials are "counters" - and they all pay attention to the numbers of voters in their districts who are pro or con any issue.

The "counting" is done by staffers. If you want to make a personal visit, always call for an appointment - remember that for congressional visits, you don't have to go to D.C.; all members of Congress have local offices. A call is almost as powerful, sometimes even more powerful, than a visit. Your prime goal is to speak with a staffer, so when the receptionist answers, request to speak with a staffer - the receptionist will understand that you are asking not to be made just a number on her tally sheet. Many times, no staffers will be available, so ask if there's a better time to call - and there should be. If the receptionist offers to have a staffer return your call, all the better.

If you wish to write, here are some pointers:

(1) Keep it to one page! This is an absolute; if you feel you need to say more, make a call or a personal visit. 

(2) Make sure you start by thanking the legislator for his/her good service. 

(3) Make your point clearly, short and sweet, but offer to be available for more input, and don't be surprised if you get a call from a staffer. 

(4) End with appreciation for the opportunity of discussing this important issue, and looking forward to the legislator's support. (

5) Don't forget that it is always in good taste to address your letter to, The Honorable Senator X.

Organizations And Clubs

Talking to groups like community clubs and organizations, parent/teacher/student organizations, librarian unions, activists, etc is very effective. They can all be very helpful allies to the cause while giving leaders a platform for disseminating information. Just get in contact and let them know what an organized group has to offer. For example, Scioto Rx Drug Task Force, SOLACE, Fix the Scioto County Problem of Drug Abuse, and The Apostolic Coalition are a few of the groups that offer speakers and many helpful services.

In Conclusion

No one can realize the potential of his or her contribution until their brains, hands and feet move. We could speculate all day, but, I find, the smallest actions can produce spectacular results. Each of us has a spark of unique talent to lend. Together, with all our movements, the contributions add immeasurably to the power of impact. I truly believe that activism, to be successful, requires acquisition of good information, time to digest the information, a commitment to appropriate response, and ACTION.

The Truth of Temponeras

Now that the smokescreen that has veiled a toxic business in Wheelersburg, Ohio has lifted, I sincerely hope all the pertinent facts come to light. The public deserves the naked truth. Simply put, people are entitled to know the evidence - nothing more and nothing less.

Let the materiality of the investigations speak for itself. But, now, it is imperative that Scioto County, Appalachia, and the the rest of the United States have knowledge of Margy Temponeras M.D. who, according to U.S. DEA Special Agent in Charge, Robert L. Corso, is "one of the largest dispensers of controlled substances in the United States."

The Hippocratic Oath is one of the oldest binding documents in history. Written in antiquity, its principles are held sacred by doctors to this day: treat the sick to the best of one's ability, preserve patient privacy, teach the secrets of medicine to the next generation, and so on. The American Medical Association's Code of Medical Ethics (1996 edition) states,"The Oath of Hippocrates has remained in Western civilization as an expression of ideal conduct for the physician." (Peter Tyson, "The Hippocratic Oath Today," NOVA and PBS, March 27 2001)

Consider the gravity of the circumstances in Southern Ohio, and review the vital contract medical doctors make with their patients. We must hold our trusted physicians to their solemn word as they practice medicine. They have sworn to the The Hippocratic Oath. Here are portions of the modern version of that oath.

"I will apply, for the benefit of the sick, all measures [that] are required, avoiding those twin traps of overtreatment and therapeutic nihilism.

"I will remember that there is art to medicine as well as science, and that warmth, sympathy, and understanding may outweigh the surgeon's knife or the chemist's drug.


"Most especially must I tread with care in matters of life and death. If it is given me to save a life, all thanks. But it may also be within my power to take a life; this awesome responsibility must be faced with great humbleness and awareness of my own frailty. Above all, I must not play at God."

As patients and citizens of Scioto County, we demand to know the extent of any breeches of this document. We expect to learn the truth. We hope all investigatory bodies do these things:

1. Uncover the facts concerning cases of overtreatment.

2. Uncover the facts that show many "cures" do more harm than good and that show a safer and gentler system of true healing does exists.

3. Uncover the facts that pertain to unethical practices that do not raise the general level of health and enhance the innate self-healing potential of the whole person.

4. Uncover the facts that show deliberate malpractice under the influence of greed.

5. Uncover the facts that support any trace of evidence that pertains to "playing God" with human life.

I, as you can tell, am extremely happy that investigations have begun and that appropriate actions have been taken in the matters of Dr. Temponeras. My personal stake in this investigation relates to the rx drug abuse health epidemic in Scioto County. Far too many people have already died and have already been crippled due to the unethical, ravenous tactics of pill mills. I take no joy in deriding any medical doctor who has turned "to the dark side." But, the guilty parties should and must pay. Justice is waiting, its scales poised in the balance.

On Tuesday, May 17, Fred Alverson, law enforcement coordinator for the Southern District of Ohio, reported, “There are no charges that have been filed against anybody. No arrests are anticipated,“ Alverson said. “But search warrants are being executed as a part of an ongoing criminal investigation.”

We, in Scioto County, await the results of that ongoing criminal investigation. We understand that certain limitations and regulations apply to the fact-finding. In truth, we may never be privileged to all the details; however, we deserve revelation of any and all criminal activities.

We would like to take this opportunity to thank the DEA, Governor Kasich, Attorney General DeWine, the Scioto Sheriffs Office, the Portsmouth Police Department, and all others who have worked so hard to uncover the dealings of Margy Temponeras, John Temponeras, Mark Fantazuzzi, and Michael Dawes. The enforcement agencies in Ohio are proving that the Buckeye State is the leader in the nation in the fight against prescription drug abuse. Make no mistake, these great warriors are saving many lives.

Many skeptics wondered whether May 17 would ever materialize. For a long time now, we have told people to ignore the "dream killers." A vision of a new, improved community was conceived a few short months ago, and thanks to the concerned citizens of the county, the dream continues to unfold. The right to live a safe, productive, meaningful life free of unnecessary harm  is the intended outcome of all struggles. We have taken another giant step towards that destination.

Facebook Apps and Privacy Concerns

Does Facebook allow strangers and the ill-intentioned to collect personal data without the knowledge of its users? Of course, Facebook sits atop mountains of valuable personal information. The safety and security of so much information stored in one place is suspect. By now, the wise know that if information is private and meant to be guarded, they should never post it on Facebook.

Many wonder just what Facebook information is shared by third parties. In other words, what can be viewed publicly, even by people who aren't Facebook friends in a social network, or even by people who aren't members of Facebook?

Many users love Facebook applications. Facebook apps seem like harmless games and fun, but are they?

Here is some recent news:

"Security firm Symantec has discovered a security flaw in Facebook that inadvertently gives advertisers and other outside parties access to people's accounts. But Facebook said it has fixed the problem and found no evidence that any private information was shared with any outside party.

"Symantec said Tuesday that the outside parties may not even have realized that they were able to access users' profiles, photos and chats.

"The problem was leaking "access tokens," which are akin to spare keys that let apps access your profile if you gave them permission, Symantec researcher Nishant Doshi said in a blog post.

"Doshi estimates that some 100,000 applications were enabling the data leak as of April. Over the years, however, hundreds of thousands of applications may have accidentally leaked millions of access tokens to outside parties." (Barbara Ortutay, "Facebook Apps Leaked Data: No Evidence of Misuse," Associated Press Yahoo News, May 11 2011)

When third-party apps are installed, users selectively grant them permission to access profile data. In certain situations, a token can be passed by Facebook to these third-party applications "potentially on purpose and unfortunately very commonly by accident" in the referrer field of Web-based data requests. That data, in turn, can be shared with other third parties. (Bob Sullivan, "Facebook Flaw Leaked Millions Of User Account Access Tokens," The Red Tape Chronicles msnbc.com, 2011)

This incident is not the first time Facebook has been accused of leaking critical data to third parties.  Last fall, The Wall Street Journal found that many popular apps were transmitting Facebook user ID information to third parties, regardless of user privacy settings. (Emily Steel and Geoffrey A. Miller, "Facebook In Privacy Breech," The Wall Street Journal, October 18 2010)

Facebook Apps

What are Facebook apps? "Apps" are pieces of software that let Facebook's 500 million users play games or share common interests with one another. Steel and Miller said that all of the 10 most popular apps on Facebook were transmitting users' IDs to outside companies.

The apps, ranked by research company Inside Network Inc. (based on monthly users), include Zynga Game Network Inc.'s FarmVille, with 59 million users, and Texas HoldEm Poker and FrontierVille. Steel and Miller reported that three of the top 10 apps, including FarmVille, also had been transmitting personal information about a user's friends to outside companies.

Applications are also a growing source of revenue beyond advertising for Facebook itself, which sells its own  virtual currency that can be used to pay for games.

Available Information
  Steven Levy ("Facebook's Stealth Attack on Google Exposes Its Own Privacy Problem," WIRED, May 13 2011) reported, "Facebook used to have an implicit promise with its users. Basically the deal was what goes on Facebook stays on Facebook. But over the past couple of years Facebook has chosen to alter the deal."

But, Levy continued, "Certain profile information became available outside of Facebook, easily searchable via Google and other means. (Users can opt out of showing this but relatively few do.) Some of that profile information includes a few of the people on the user's friend list. By repeatedly pinging public profiles, it's possible for Google or anyone else to figure out pretty much all your friends."

What Is the Bottom Line?


So, it seems that Facebook has put information on the open web by default. Let it be so. What, besides apps, should be regarded as questionable information on Facebook accounts? Certain precautions can be taken by the Facebook faithful to insure a degree of privacy. Still, the question remains: What information will continue to leak into the hands of strangers?

A point or two to consider:

1. Unless people actively take steps to opt out, it's possible for "friends of friends" (i.e., strangers) to view someone's personal information on Facebook.

2. Most people do not take steps to hide their connections and a Facebook user's friend list is open by default to half a billion Facebook users.

Here is a site that titled "How to Protect Your Private Information On Facebook."
http://www.wikihow.com/Protect-Your-Private-Information-on-Facebook

Calling the Burg

Wheelersburg, Ohio appears to be Ground Zero for the Scioto County health epidemic. A major center of rx drug distribution for many years, Wheelersburg has long been awash in the deadly debris of abuse. The problems that exist in the Burg are no secret to area residents. They have rallied together and fought hard to extinguish the consuming fires of destruction, but the people still struggle with all the headaches and heartaches associated with prescription abuse. One word is sufficient to summarize the terrible plight of Wheelersburg -- Death.

I believe we need to exorcise publicly the demons that exist in the Burg. All of Scioto County is so dependent on this outstanding community in so many ways. We must put an end to untimely, pointless deaths. We must discuss the problems with specificity. And, we must educate all concerning healing actions that may be taken sooner as opposed to later. We lose lives with procrastination.

I want this post to be a positive call to revelation of truths and an opportune request for action by all citizens of Scioto County. I am not painting the Burg in a negative light to denigrate the community. In fact, as we all know, Wheelersburg remains an outstanding district full of the best Scioto has to offer. The schools, the people, the civic programs in the Burg are excellent. Unfortunately, some "bad apples" have unleashed untold terror and subjugation there. And, believe me, I understand this problem is inherent in every populace in Appalachia. The epidemic has no boundaries of districts or towns.

I propose that residents shed theirs fears and their reasons for keeping problems in the Burg "under wraps" and that they no longer find merely whispering their discontent sufficient for implementing change. Make no mistake, I abhor yellow journalism and the rags of publications that throw scandalous ungrounded stories at the masses. I am speaking, instead, of bringing to light first-hand facts and founded research. When the facts come together, officials can better attack all ills. I know many residents have pertinent information that can help.

I also ask all arms of enforcement, health, and government to respond as people from Wheelersburg come forward. It can be very frustrating to report information that seems to be ignored; however, the reality is that limitations do exist. I know that many folk are working countless hours to bring criminals to justice. Many times reports help build a case that requires unbelievable mountains of  evidence. The key here is having everyone work together with patience and mutual understanding. Each step in the right direction is a huge gain for everyone.

This post introduces a topic that I have long wished to raise. Some are tired of recent magnification of the rx drug epidemic. They believe it portrays our county as a horrible hell hole destined to fail. I feel just the opposite. The publicity has helped all of us in Scioto to consider how we can take further actions to implement needed positive change. So many positive steps have already been taken by concerned citizens and groups. Scioto County is getting better every day. I understand that terrible things still occur, but now we have many resources in place to deal with problems. We cannot stop working together. We cannot ignore the work ahead. We can not stop implementing programs that chip away at the infrastructure of rx abuse.

I hope soon to see a major Burg event created by the Scioto Task Force that solidifies the resolve of the entire county to take back our precious communities. We in the Task Force Action Team commit ourselves to continued improvement. For too long I have heard gossip and stories and blame. What is needed now is truth, proof, and justice. Deaths are not an option. Thanks to all in Wheelersburg willing to listen and to act.

Deadly Chemicals Blanket America

America Is Under Attack From Huge Waves of Chemical Releases

A deadly chemical cloud is darkening the heart of the nation. Exposure to these manmade substances has already decimated countless thousands. A spokesman for the FDA reports that health officials have made numerous attempts to stop the spread of this deadly scourge currently ravaging Appalachia, but all attempts to curtail it have thus far failed. 

Casualties have been catastrophic. 30,000 people have died this past year and 6 million more have become ill with little chance of recovery. America is under a devastating chemical attack. This is the horrible reality in the United States of 2011 that many just do not comprehend... yet.

The toxins, largely unchecked, have saturated the Appalachian region during the last thirteen years causing a massive public health epidemic. Entire communities have fallen victim to the releases. In recent years, these agents have spread nationwide. Now, the entire country is at risk. Currently, all Americans face wave after wave of issues of these lethal compounds. 

Researchers have traced the makeup of some forms of the deadly agents to Germany in 1916. In the United States, the active chemical ingredients have been around for well over six decades. Warnings about the potential dangers of injurious leaks can be traced as far back as the 1960's when many reports told of the possibilities of deadly hazards concerning their misuse. Since the early 1990's the most virulent releases of these toxins have occurred.

Death rates have risen steadily since 1970. In 2007 alone more than 27,600 deaths occurred in the United States. In that year, the number of deaths were second only to motor vehicle crash deaths among leading causes of unintentional injury death.

According to projections from trend lines, the frequent releases will claim 40,000 people next year while another 7 million will become ill and exhibit symptoms of extreme distress. Many blame these chemical releases upon the widespread aggressive off-label marketing practices and misleading information regarding the appropriate uses, risks, and safety of the chemical vehicles. Actually, there has been a ten-fold increase in those people using the products over the last twenty years.

The use of prescription pain relievers, stimulants, sedatives and tranquilizers in an abusive manner continues. Current trends show younger people, including teenagers, are becoming addicted to these prescription medications, as well as elderly patients.

Calling the Burg

Wheelersburg, Ohio appears to be Ground Zero for the Scioto County health epidemic. A major center of rx drug distribution for many years, Wheelersburg has long been awash in the deadly debris of abuse. The problems that exist in the Burg are no secret to area residents. They have rallied together and fought hard to extinguish the consuming fires of destruction, but the people still struggle with all the headaches and heartaches associated with prescription abuse. One word is sufficient to summarize the terrible plight of Wheelersburg -- Death.

I believe we need to exorcise publicly the demons that exist in the Burg. All of Scioto County is so dependent on this outstanding community in so many ways. We must put an end to untimely, pointless deaths. We must discuss the problems with specificity. And, we must educate all concerning healing actions that may be taken sooner as opposed to later. We lose lives with procrastination.

I want this post to be a positive call to revelation of truths and an opportune request for action by all citizens of Scioto County. I am not painting the Burg in a negative light to denigrate the community. In fact, as we all know, Wheelersburg remains an outstanding district full of the best Scioto has to offer. The schools, the people, the civic programs in the Burg are excellent. Unfortunately, some "bad apples" have unleashed untold terror and subjugation there. And, believe me, I understand this problem is inherent in every populace in Appalachia. The epidemic has no boundaries of districts or towns.

I propose that residents shed theirs fears and their reasons for keeping problems in the Burg "under wraps" and that they no longer find merely whispering their discontent sufficient for implementing change. Make no mistake, I abhor yellow journalism and the rags of publications that throw scandalous ungrounded stories at the masses. I am speaking, instead, of bringing to light first-hand facts and founded research. When the facts come together, officials can better attack all ills. I know many residents have pertinent information that can help.

I also ask all arms of enforcement, health, and government to respond as people from Wheelersburg come forward. It can be very frustrating to report information that seems to be ignored; however, the reality is that limitations do exist. I know that many folk are working countless hours to bring criminals to justice. Many times reports help build a case that requires unbelievable mountains of  evidence. The key here is having everyone work together with patience and mutual understanding. Each step in the right direction is a huge gain for everyone.

This post introduces a topic that I have long wished to raise. Some are tired of recent magnification of the rx drug epidemic. They believe it portrays our county as a horrible hell hole destined to fail. I feel just the opposite. The publicity has helped all of us in Scioto to consider how we can take further actions to implement needed positive change. So many positive steps have already been taken by concerned citizens and groups. Scioto County is getting better every day. I understand that terrible things still occur, but now we have many resources in place to deal with problems. We cannot stop working together. We cannot ignore the work ahead. We can not stop implementing programs that chip away at the infrastructure of rx abuse.

I hope soon to see a major Burg event created by the Scioto Task Force that solidifies the resolve of the entire county to take back our precious communities. We in the Task Force Action Team commit ourselves to continued improvement. For too long I have heard gossip and stories and blame. What is needed now is truth, proof, and justice. Deaths are not an option. Thanks to all in Wheelersburg willing to listen and to act.

Deadly Chemicals Blanket America

 America Is Under Attack From Huge Waves of Chemical Releases

A deadly chemical cloud is darkening the heart of the nation. Exposure to these manmade substances has already decimated countless thousands. A spokesman for the FDA reports that health officials have made numerous attempts to stop the spread of this deadly scourge currently ravaging Appalachia, but all attempts to curtail it have thus far failed. 

Casualties have been catastrophic. 30,000 people have died this past year and 6 million more have become ill with little chance of recovery. America is under a devastating chemical attack. This is the horrible reality in the United States of 2011 that many just do not comprehend... yet.

The toxins, largely unchecked, have saturated the Appalachian region during the last thirteen years causing a massive public health epidemic. Entire communities have fallen victim to the releases. In recent years, these agents have spread nationwide. Now, the entire country is at risk. Currently, all Americans face wave after wave of issues of these lethal compounds. 

Researchers have traced the makeup of some forms of the deadly agents to Germany in 1916. In the United States, the active chemical ingredients have been around for well over six decades. Warnings about the potential dangers of injurious leaks can be traced as far back as the 1960's when many reports told of the possibilities of deadly hazards concerning their misuse. Since the early 1990's the most virulent releases of these toxins have occurred.

Death rates have risen steadily since 1970. In 2007 alone more than 27,600 deaths occurred in the United States. In that year, the number of deaths were second only to motor vehicle crash deaths among leading causes of unintentional injury death.

According to projections from trend lines, the frequent releases will claim 40,000 people next year while another 7 million will become ill and exhibit symptoms of extreme distress. Many blame these chemical releases upon the widespread aggressive off-label marketing practices and misleading information regarding the appropriate uses, risks, and safety of the chemical vehicles. Actually, there has been a ten-fold increase in those people using the products over the last twenty years.

The use of prescription pain relievers, stimulants, sedatives and tranquilizers in an abusive manner continues. Current trends show younger people, including teenagers, are becoming addicted to these prescription medications, as well as elderly patients.