Healing

Opioid Settlement: Baltimore Secures $152 Million Jury Award, Aims for Healing and Recovery

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BALTIMORE — The city of Baltimore will accept a $152 million jury award in its ongoing litigation against opioid distributors, a significant outcome in the battle against the opioid crisis that has devastated communities across the nation. The jury found that the companies failed to monitor suspicious orders of painkillers, contributing to widespread addiction and overdose deaths. The award follows a lengthy trial that exposed how these distributors prioritized profits over public health, exacerbating one of the deadliest drug crises in U.S. history. This ruling is part of a larger trend where cities and states … Read more

New Jersey Strengthens Protections for Addiction Recovery: Landmark Laws Combat Exploitation and Foster Healing

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TRENTON, N.J. — New legislation in New Jersey aims to combat abuses in the addiction recovery sector, marking a significant step towards enhancing accountability and transparency in treatment facilities. Lawmakers are responding to long-standing concerns about deceptive practices that have plagued the industry, affecting countless individuals seeking help. The new laws, which have garnered bipartisan support, focus on various aspects of addiction recovery services. They seek to ensure that treatment facilities operate ethically and that patients receive the care they genuinely need without exploitation. Among the major provisions, the legislation introduces stricter licensing requirements and … Read more

Local Theaters Take Steps Toward Healing: Settlements Reached in Director Abuse Case

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Bridgeport, Connecticut, is grappling with the aftermath of settlements reached in a lawsuit filed by several community theaters against their former director, accused of sexual abuse. The legal action brought to light troubling allegations against the director, who had been a prominent figure in the local arts scene. The lawsuits stemmed from claims made by multiple individuals associated with the theaters, alleging a pattern of inappropriate behavior that spanned several years. As the community sought to address the issue, the theaters involved decided to pursue legal remedies to hold the director accountable for the alleged … Read more

Music and Unity Shine at the 2025 SCL Awards, Honoring Top Composers and Lyricists Amidst Community Healing

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Los Angeles, CA — The sixth annual Society of Composers and Lyricists (SCL) Awards recently unfolded at the Skirball Cultural Center, bringing together a vibrant community of music creators for a night of celebration and recognition. Hosted by Colin Hays, the evening was marked by a poignant opening performance of “Lean on Me,” echoing a sense of solidarity amidst the backdrop of the recent devastating wildfires in Los Angeles. The event did not just spotlight achievements but also acknowledged the hardships faced by its members, including composer Starr Parodi, who was presented with a replacement … Read more