Illegal Drug Use: Be a part of the solution

From Town of Murphy Mayor Rick Ramsey:

Hi Folks,

There is a new group that is attempting to better understand why our community has an illegal drug issue, what resources are available to help and how they might become part of the solution. There have been two meetings to date with about 25 in attendance. Parents, grandparents, concerned citizens, a few people with experience on the issue and at least two successfully recovering addicts who are sharing their ongoing success are attending. In addition Chief Justin Jacobs, James Reid and I have attended as well. WKRK covers the meetings live on Facebook Live.

This is not a “Murphy” group, it reaches beyond and out in our surrounding community. I believe we must do all we collectively can to address this problem. This group realizes that all communities are facing the same issue and are looking for best ways to prevent middle school children and up from becoming victims. They are looking for safe groups, organizations, etc. that will provide a safe, fun, interesting environment for children of all ages. Question: what is there to do for kids in the evenings and weekends that is safe and fun? Organized sports is a partial answer for only some. The group is also strongly interested in what resources are available to both educate and participate in everything to do with addiction treatment and recovery for all who are already victims but are seeking help.

The next meeting is Saturday, March 3 at 1:00pm at the Murphy Bible Church (Fellowship Hall downstairs.) The address is 169 Smith Hollow Road, Murphy, NC (across from the Big D Store on Hwy 64 West.)  Please share this with any and all that may be interested in participating, from average citizens to those who have knowledge and experience in ways that can succeed in helping.

Since becoming Mayor, I’ve had many conversations with citizens about our drug issue. People of all ages are scared, isolated and living behind locked doors that they will not open. People are very hesitant to notify law enforcement for fear of reprisal from the dealers. This “war” will require a united and very vocal front of a large number of citizens that will visibly stand together and send the strong message that our community will no longer tolerate drug dealers doing business in our neighborhoods.

If you have read this far I thank you for your time. Please join if you can and share this invitation far and wide. It will be important to simply come and listen whether you have something to share or not.

I hope to see you on March 3 at 1:00.

Rick

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