The featured speaker at the Levittown Historical Society’s September meeting was John Owens, editor in chief of Anton Community Newspapers, the publisher of the Levittown Tribune.
Historical society Vice President Bob Koenig opened the meeting, which was held at the Levittown Public Library.
Owens discussed the opioid epidemic that has swept over Long Island. Not only have thousands of residents become addicted to prescription painkillers and heroin, Owens said, but also, over the past two years there have been more than 240 overdose deaths.
Based on reporting he did for numerous articles published in this newspaper, Owens explained the typical path to addiction, treatment and overcoming the problem.
He also addressed the issue of death from overdoses, and how Nassau County has been a leader in preventing overdose deaths by providing Narcan training to both emergency workers and the general public. Narcan, a drug that almost immediately reverses the effects of heroin and other opioids, is easily administered by those taking a one-hour training course.
The county offers these courses throughout the year.
For the latest schedule, email elaikin@nassaucountyny.gov or call 516-571-6105. Details are also available from the Mental Health Association.
The phone number is 516-489-2322 ex. 1250.
