Sam Quinones to speak on American opiate epidemic

ZANESVILLE, Ohio – Former LA Times Investigative Reporter, Sam Quinones, will be in town next week speaking on the American opiate epidemic.
Quinones spent time reporting in Mexico, and on Mexican’s in America. Chief Executive Officer of Muskingum Behavioral Health, Steve Carrel, said he will discuss the personal journey’s of addicts, drug traffickers, doctors, law enforcement, and families affected by the epidemic.
“He’s going to talk about how did we get here. How did the opiate epidemic come into the United States, and why is it blossoming like it is,†said Carrel.
Following the presentation, there will be a panel of professionals, recovering addicts, and affected family members, exploring the epidemic. Organizers hope the event will get people talking.
“Those of us on the planning team, our intent, we are not going to solve the problem on October 4th. Our intent is to get people talking. To not talk about this just behind closed doors, let’s talk about this openly,†said Carrel.
Counselors, doctors, educators, first responders, nurses, pharmacists, and social workers, can register online for professional credit.
The event will be held at Secrest Auditorium on October 4th. Admission is free, and seating is first come first serve. For more information, call 740-454-8557.