On March 23rd, 2023, Families of Fentanyl Victims and Drug Induced Homicide rallied in front of Senate President Pro Tempore Toni Atkins’ office to push for the passage of SB 44, also known as Alexandra’s Law. Matt Capelouto, the father of Alexandra, who the bill is named after spoke about how Atkins could end the deaths from fentanyl tomorrow, if she wanted to. The bill, SB 44, in which FentanylSolution.org is an official supporter, would allow drug dealers to be admonished if caught with fentanyl; with the warning that if they continue to sell the drug and someone dies as a result, they will be charged with murder. The goal of the rally was to convince Atkins to bypass the California Public Safety Committee and bring the bill directly to the floor for elected Senators to vote on.
Footage of the rally in front of Senate President Pro Tempore Toni Atkins’ office. Click thumbnail to play the video.
The urgency of the situation cannot be overstated. California is currently the number one state for fentanyl deaths, with an average of 110 people dying every week from the drug. That’s equivalent to a 747 airplane crashing every 10 days. And it’s not just a problem in California – fentanyl is now the number one killer of 18 through 45-year-olds in the United States, surpassing COVID-19, car accidents, suicides, and cancer.
At the rally, the President & CEO of FentanylSolution.org and The Fentanyl Solution Group, Janice M. Celeste, and Board Member Tina Burke spoke to the press about the need for action. Burke shared her personal story of losing her son, Christian to fentanyl and emphasized the need for stricter penalties for drug dealers who sell deadly substances. Celeste promoted the organizations’ Poll-to-Prop initiative and upcoming Mega-Zoom Meeting on March 24th at 1 pm PDT for families of Fentanyl Victims. More information can be found on FentanylSolution.org’s Facebook page.
The California Public Safety Committee has been stonewalling bills with penalties attached. There must be consequences for those who profit from selling deadly substances. The current situation with fentanyl is a prime example of this. While admonishing drug dealers may seem like a small step, it’s a necessary one in the fight to save lives. It sends a clear message that selling fentanyl is not only illegal but also potentially deadly, and that there will be consequences for those who choose to continue to profit from it.
The rally by Families of Fentanyl Victims and Drug Induced Homicide in front of Senate President Pro Tempore Toni Atkins’ office was a much-needed call to action. The passage of SB 44, or Alexandra’s Law, would be a crucial step forward in the fight against fentanyl deaths in California and across the country. It’s time for lawmakers to recognize the severity of the fentanyl epidemic and take action to save lives.
In this episode, guest speaker Arnel Dino, Development Officer of Fentanyl Solution Group, talks about his career path, his involvement in public service and how the fentanyl crisis affects many communities. Our host, President & CEO of Fentanyl Solution Group, Janice M. Celeste and Arnel also speak about how to combat drug and substance abuse by taking proactive action, spreading awareness, and making a change.
“In my city, a young girl died of fentanyl and nobody talked about it.”
–Arnel Dino
“Since the legislature is going to go back and forth like they have been, it’s time to take it to the people,”
–Arnel Dino
Arnel goes over his work at Fentanyl Solution Group. He mentions his efforts to raise awareness among elected officials, collaborate with various organizations, and advocate for action on the statewide and national levels. This discussion touches upon the ballot initiative aimed at addressing the fentanyl crisis on a statewide level, with the goal of becoming a model law for other states. They clarify that the initiative targets dealers rather than individuals passing pills among friends, highlighting the importance of Good Samaritan laws that protect those seeking help during overdoses.
“We are looking for dealers on Snapchat stalking kids,”
–Janice Celeste
Janice and Arnel also emphasize the need for each and every person to take action against Fentanyl to end this crisis once and for all. Listen all about it on our syndicated podcast featured on our Facebook (@fentanylsolution) and Twitter (@fentanylsol).
Join us in our crucial mission to save lives from the fentanyl crisis and drive impactful awareness. Your donation today will make a significant difference!
On Saturday, August 19th, 2023, the Fentanyl Solution Team, along with a distinguished guest, Mayor Farrah Khan of Irvine, orchestrated a poignant vigil to commemorate National Fentanyl Prevention and Awareness Day (NFPA Day). Although NFPA Day officially fell on Monday, August 21, a deliberate choice was made to enhance accessibility by holding the event on this weekend day.
However, the carefully laid plans were thrown into disarray as a hurricane threatened California, forcing a series of cancellations. In the face of this unforeseen challenge, the organizers demonstrated their resilience, ultimately achieving a remarkable turnout. The gathering was graced by the presence of numerous families and advocates who braved the circumstances to participate.
A pivotal moment during the vigil was Mayor Farrah Khan’s address to the assembled crowd, during which she shared her insightful perspectives on the pressing issue of the fentanyl crisis. Her words resonated deeply, highlighting the urgency of the cause.
Building on this momentum, Janice M. Celeste, the esteemed President and CEO of FentanylSolution.org, delivered a stirring speech that smoothly transitioned into a poignant sharing session.
During this session, parents who had tragically lost their loved ones to fentanyl poisoning narrated their heart-wrenching stories, underscoring the gravity of the situation.
Amidst the emotions and testimonials, a profound sense of unity permeated the atmosphere. The collective strength of the attendees, undeterred by the weather’s adversity, mirrored their commitment to raising awareness about fentanyl’s devastating impact. The vigil became a powerful manifestation of solidarity, an enduring reminder of the lives affected, and a call to action for preventing further loss.
Join us in our crucial mission to save lives from the fentanyl crisis and drive impactful awareness. Your donation today will make a significant difference!
Participating as members of the Greater Irvine Chamber of Commerce, the FentanylSolution.org team made their presence felt at the annual Celebrate Irvine Event in June. The experience left them profoundly honored to be a part of such an extraordinary gathering.
Celebrate Irvine, orchestrated by the Greater Irvine Chamber, serves as a vital conduit for recognizing the contributions of both businesses and individuals within the expansive Irvine community. By fostering a platform like Celebrate Irvine, the Greater Irvine Chamber not only celebrates achievements but also reinforces a shared commitment to ethical corporate citizenship. It stands as a testament to the values that drive a community forward, inspiring a culture of giving back and responsible engagement within the local business landscape.
Fentanyl is number one on Americans’ minds. “In second place on the list of public health problems was obesity. Meanwhile, the threat of people’s access to guns faded to third place on the list, with 20% of people citing the concern, down from 26% who cited guns as a public health threat in May. Cancer trailed in fourth place, with 11% of people mentioning the disease.” — WebMD
““We’re finding that six out of every 10 pills have a deadly amount of fentanyl…It only takes two milligrams to kill somebody.” — DEA
“Drug overdose death rates were higher in 2021 than in 2020 for all age groups 25 and over.” Although the rates for seniors were lower, the percentages were higher. — CDC
To begin October Drug Awareness Month, FentanylSolution.org will post a dedication video to the loved ones lost to
fentanyl poisoning, our ‘Forever Angels’ on all social media platforms. We encourage anyone who would like an angel included in this video to submit their dedication to the form below.
Submissions must be received no later than 5:00pm September 22, 2023 to be guaranteed inclusion in the video. We will do our best to process late submissions,
but any submission after the deadline may not be able to be included in the video. We will also play the video at our Fight Fentanyl event on October 7, 2023. You do not have to be in attendance at the Fight Fentanyl event to submit for the Forever Angels Dedication–although
we encourage as many of you as we can to attend. For those interested in having their Forever Angel on a banner at our fall events in addition to the video, you can make a donation in their honor and specify your desire to have them included on the banner. This banner will be present at all official Fentanyl Solution events through 2023.
Banner Dedication
Please click the link below and choose Tribute Dedication. You can put the name of your Forever Angel write “Banner Dedication”.
Questions?
Please reach out to shane@fentanylsolution.org
FentanylSolution.org Article by: Gloria Fallon
Against the backdrop of an increasingly urgent conversation surrounding the evolution of the illicit drug crisis, the Rock to Recovery (R2R) concert and fundraiser held on August 26th, 2023, in Huntington Beach, gained even more poignant
significance. Attending the event was Janice M. Celeste and Shane Wood, the President & CEO and Development Director of FentanylSolution.org, who expressed their deep honor to be part of the R2R’s mission and in attendance. The event, led by Wesley Geer, President and CEO of Rock to Recovery, seamlessly
blended the healing power of music with a philanthropic mission, underscoring the organization’s vital role in supporting individuals on their journeys to recovery. Wesley Geer has channeled his expertise into the Rock to Recovery initiative, offering a novel approach to healing through music. Geer’s commitment to helping individuals find solace resonates powerfully as society grapples with the complex challenges of drug usage, misuse, and poisoning.
Rock to Recovery (R2R) is fast becoming a star-studded event bringing forth a sense of unity and healing as well as displaying full-circle moments for program participants who have never touched an instrument prior, now rocking out with a sold-out crowd with their sobriety and a new song. Beyond the captivating tunes, the event
highlighted the organization’s growing relevance in an era marked by heightened awareness of substance abuse’s dire consequences. There are
genuine challenges and the concert is another token of the sentiment that sobriety is to be celebrated and a lifestyle. The concert boasts a huge message along with heavy hitters backing the
cause. This year, Travis Mills, known for his roles on Girlfriends and MTV along with Brandon Novak, former professional skater and recovery advocate also known from the hit shows Jackass and Viva
La Bam, were the honoree’s of the evening Mills receiving the Rock to Recovery Icon Award and Novak receiving the Rock to Recovery Service Award. Some of the
performers headlining this year’s event were Wes Geer (Korn, Hed PE), Scott Underwood (Train), Sonny Mayo (Sevendust), Acey Slade (Misfits, Joan Jett), MIYAVI (the Last Rockstar), and son of Sublime lead singer (Bradley Nowell) Jakob Nowell. During the
concert, Geer articulated the organization’s mission in the context of the prevailing challenges: “Rock to Recovery serves as a beacon of hope for those seeking a way out of the struggles of substance abuse. This event is a testament to our commitment to offer an avenue of healing and transformation.”
The fundraiser aspect of the event took on an even greater significance against the backdrop of the increasing visibility of the sobriety community. As substance abuse-related issues become more pronounced, initiatives like Rock to Recovery are
are gaining momentum in providing alternatives for individuals seeking recovery. The growing relevance of Rock to Recovery’s mission was palpable as attendees left the event with a heightened awareness of music’s role in fostering resilience and recovery.
Join us in our crucial mission to save lives from the fentanyl crisis and drive impactful awareness. Your donation today will make a significant difference!
FentanylSolution.org extends a heartfelt invitation to you to watch our sincere video, a tribute to the remarkable grandparents who have made the intentional choice to raise their grandchildren following the devastating loss of their own children. This video aims to shed light on their extraordinary stories, celebrate their resilience, and showcase the boundless love they provide to the younger generation.
We also kindly request your support in sharing this touching tribute with your extended network, friends, and family. By doing so, you become a part of the effort to raise awareness of the challenges faced by these grandparents and the critical role they play in the lives of their grandchildren. Your outreach can inspire empathy and understanding, fostering a greater sense of community and support for these remarkable individuals.
The journey of these grandparents is one of courage, sacrifice, and unwavering love. In a world often marked by its fast pace and fleeting moments, they stand as beacons of stability, offering their grandchildren a secure and nurturing environment when they need it most.
Their stories are a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring power of familial love. As we delve deeper into their experiences, we uncover the profound impact of their choices. These grandparents have willingly embraced the role of primary caregivers, stepping into the shoes of their own children to provide stability and love. The loss of their own children, a heartbreaking tragedy, has spurred them into action, igniting a determination to ensure their grandchildren have a bright future filled with hope and opportunity.
Their resilience is a quality that shines brightly in the face of adversity. They have navigated the challenges of grief and loss, redefined their roles in their families, and embarked on a new chapter in their lives with grace and strength. The love they extend to their grandchildren is unwavering, and it is this love that becomes the foundation upon which these young lives can flourish.
We invite you to join us in celebrating these unsung heroes, these grandparents who have chosen to rewrite the narrative of their lives in order to ensure a brighter future for the next generation. Their
selflessness and determination deserve recognition, and it is through our collective support that we can shine a light on their extraordinary journeys.
In a world that often rushes past the stories of everyday heroes, we have the opportunity to amplify their voices and acknowledge their invaluable contributions. By watching, sharing, and spreading the word about their stories, we can collectively make a difference in the lives of these grandparents and the children they so lovingly nurture.
Through our heartfelt video tribute, we hope to shine a spotlight on the extraordinary grandparents who have stepped forward to raise their grandchildren after the loss of their own children. Their stories are stories of love, resilience, and hope, and they deserve to be celebrated and shared. Join us in honoring these remarkable individuals, and let us all contribute to the support and recognition they truly deserve.
Join us in our crucial mission to save lives from the fentanyl crisis and drive impactful awareness. Your donation today will make a significant difference!
The Craft Boxing Club, initially a sanctuary for fitness enthusiasts, has recently undergone a remarkable transformation. It has evolved into a significant focal point in the battle against the fentanyl crisis, an insidious synthetic opioid that surpasses heroin in potency by 50 times.
Spearheaded by the 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, FentanylSolution.org, and supported by George Foreman III, the venue brought together a coalition of celebrities, athletes, and community leaders with a shared commitment to combating this lethal epidemic.
The Current Challenge
At the forefront of this event, George Foreman III, the owner of the Craft Boxing Club and the son of the legendary boxer, George Foreman, set the tone
for the gathering. He delivered a crucial message: “Fentanyl is everyone’s problem, affecting people of all
ages.” He seamlessly integrated essential education about the drug into his signature boxing class.
The Stealthy Nature of Fentanyl
Janice M. Celeste, President and CEO of FentanylSolution.org, passionately conveyed the urgency of the situation. “These are not merely harmless pills;
they are lethal traps, often unknowingly passed among friends, at social gatherings, and even within our educational institutions,” she stated.
Shane Wood, the Director of Development at FentanylSolution.org, added another critical layer to this
issue, explaining, “Alarmingly, over 75% of these deaths are purely accidental. Naloxone, an antidote for opioid overdoses, can be a lifesaver in these dire situations.”
A Rallying Cry
Erica Spiegelman, the Founder and COO of New Spirit Recovery and a key sponsor of the event, emphasized the significance of addressing the root causes of addiction. She highlighted California as ground zero for this crisis, with over 117 lives tragically lost each week due to fentanyl poisoning. Her support for the event underscored the dire need for community involvement and practical education.
NFL veterans Jarrod Bunch and Terry Robiski lent their influential voices to the cause, emphasizing the importance of collective action and community engagement in combating this crisis.
Senator Henry Stern and Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin each graciously awarded Sarah and George Foreman III, Craft Boxing Club, a Certificate of Recognition, in appreciation of their dedication to addressing the fentanyl crisis. Janice also presented a plaque on behalf of FentanylSolution.org as a token of gratitude for allowing such a powerful message to come across in such a powerful way.
More Than Just a Boxing Class
While the attendees engaged in shadowboxing and physical exertion, the atmosphere in the room became increasingly weighty with every statistic and personal story shared. Erica Spiegelman aptly summed up the
event by saying, “We are not simply throwing punches in the air; we are fighting back against a crisis that is tearing our society apart.” The event
served as an educational platform, diligently informing attendees about the hazards of counterfeit pills, the critical importance of naloxone, and the life-saving initiatives spearheaded by FentanylSolution.org.
A Guiding Light
The “Fight Fentanyl” event stood as a testament to the power of community and collective effort. It shone as a beacon of hope, signaling that positive change is attainable when society unites against a common adversary. With influential figures like Foreman III, FentanylSolution.org, and Spiegelman leading the charge, the message was crystal clear: the battle against fentanyl is a shared responsibility, and it is a battle that we can emerge victorious from.
The Golden Globe Giveaway, Arts & Crafts for Kids, and Gourmet Charcuterie
Notably, the event featured a Golden Globe Giveaway, an arts & crafts corner for kids, and a gourmet charcuterie board sponsored by supermodel and daughter of Janice, Sessilee Lopez-Holmes, adding a touch of flair to the proceedings and underscoring the collective effort to address the fentanyl crisis.
(left) Sessilee Lopez-Holmes: Vogue cover sensation, iconic muse of Steven Meisel, redefining fashion, captured in style!
Join the Cause: Contribute Today
Your assistance can make a tangible difference in this life-saving mission. To contribute to the fight against fentanyl, we kindly urge you to consider making a donation to FentanylSolution.org. Every dollar you contribute is a vital piece of the collective puzzle in our endeavor to save lives and work towards a future free from the grasp of fentanyl’s devastation. Together, we can win this fight against fentanyl.
Thank You to Our Sponsors
Join us in our crucial mission to save lives from the fentanyl crisis and drive impactful awareness. Your donation today will make a significant difference!
In a remarkable recognition of our tireless efforts to combat the fentanyl crisis, we have been honored with the prestigious Excellence in Community Outreach Award by the Greater Irvine Chamber of Commerce. The accolade was presented at the Excellence in Healthcare Gala on January 11, 2024, in acknowledgment of our outstanding contributions to addressing the fentanyl epidemic.
Shane K. M. Wood, the dedicated and newly appointed Executive Director of FentanylSolution.org, graciously accepted the award on behalf of Janice M. Celeste, the President & former CEO of the organization. Janice and Shane’s leadership have been instrumental in the organization’s success in raising awareness, advocating for policy changes, and implementing life-saving initiatives.
Fentanyl has now taken the forefront as the leading cause of death for individuals aged 18-45 nationwide and stands as the primary contributor to teenage fatalities in Orange County. In our steadfast commitment to community safety, we have actively advocated for the imperative inclusion of naloxone in every individual’s first aid kit. Echoing this commitment, we contributed a first aid kit, complete with naloxone, to the silent auction at the Gala. Reflecting our organization’s dual emphasis on both post-safety measures and preventive actions, the kit also includes fentanyl test strips.
Notable support for the gala came from none other than Mayor Farrah Khan, a dedicated board member of our organization and the esteemed Mayor of Irvine. Mayor Khan’s presence underscored the community-wide importance of healthcare is it comes in many forms and highlighted the organization’s collaborative efforts with local leadership.
Our achievements are a testament to our impactful work:
Tabled Events:
We have actively engaged with the community, participating in events with a combined attendance exceeding 15,000.
Life Saving Lunch-N-Learns:
We have organized over 350 Life Saving Lunch-N-Learn sessions, providing crucial information to diverse audiences.
Online Awareness Content:
We have successfully created and disseminated online content, surpassing 50,000 views to date, to educate and raise awareness about the fentanyl crisis.
Naloxone Distribution:
With a commitment to saving lives, the organization has distributed over 15,000 doses of naloxone, an opioid overdose reversal medication.
Fentanyl Test Strips Distribution:
We have distributed nearly 20,000 Fentanyl Test Strips (FTS) to empower individuals to detect the presence of fentanyl in substances.
County-Recognized Fixed Distribution Site:
We achieved recognition as a county-approved Fixed Distribution Site, enhancing our capacity to reach and serve the community.
Treatment Center Fentanyl and Xylazine Test Pilot Program:
This initiative provides treatment centers with Fentanyl and Xylazine test strips from our organization. The program seeks to enable targeted efforts to address and reduce the impact of these substances.
The Excellence in Community Outreach award from the Greater Irvine Chamber of Commerce is a milestone recognition of our impactful work in addressing one of the most pressing public health issues of our time.
Join us in our crucial mission to save lives from the fentanyl crisis and drive impactful awareness. Your donation today will make a significant difference!