Weekly Writing Challenge: Power of Names…HHHHMMMMM

“What Is A Name Worth To You? Does It Mean Access”?

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Weekly Writing Challenge: Power of Names
Names are powerful objects. Our names are significant to us and we keep them private, sharing rarely if at all. Sometimes names are used as a sort of “Get out of jail free” card, as in the classic fairy tale Rumpelstiltskin. Names can give you access that others don’t have. Literature and fairy tales are obsessed with the power names can have over people and objects. This week, we’re asking you to take a look at what names mean to you…
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I remember one special thing my publisher told me before my current book was published and released out into the big wide world. He said, “You will now be known as Author, Catherine Townsend-Lyon to the world. And you’ll find that many doors will open for you.”…..
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Well, a little of what he shared with me that day was true. But I’m not a “vain” person. My book was not written to become a literary “Best Seller,” or to become rich or famous. It’s intension is to bring “HOPE” to others like myself who have been “judged” because of “STIGMA” around issues that have effected, and touched my life personally like, Addicted Gambling, Mental illness and disorders, and Child sex abuse survivors. I wanted my name to leave an impact on others to be known as a woman who turned her life around to do some good in this world.
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See, even though my name is becoming well-known in the recovery, mental health, and abuse survivors communities, I have noticed some differences when I use my name as, “Author” Catherine Townsend-Lyon.” It seems many take me more seriously, and in a more professional manner. I guess it comes down to how comfortable we are with sharing our name in this manner. I don’t write, author books, or blog to  become a “professional writer,” I don’t see myself that way. I want my name to stand for something “positive” in the world.
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Not to be remembered as the “Sick, Addicted, Crazy Woman” of my past. I have come so far in my 7 year recovery for that! To continue to help “Shatter Stigma,” inform and raise awareness of these very important issues. That’s what I want my “name” to represent.
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Yes, my name as an “Author’ has brought me many “blessings” like being interviewed as “Guest Author” on several radio shows, and “Guest Author & Blog Expert of gambling addiction” for  a month on websites, have had many articles written about me, my book, and recovery. I’ve been asked as “Guest author speaker” at conferences, and more. So I guess in that aspect, my “Name” has given me some access, and a wee bit of privilege. But ALL for the right reasons! That’s what is most important to me about “My Name”…
I’m far from being a “professional” writer, author, blogger, and advocate,” but, “I AM A Work In Progress”!
What’s Your Name’s Hidden Meaning?  “A few things it told me about “MY NAME” of
Author, Catherine Townsend-Lyon;
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You are usually the best at everything … you strive for perfection.
You are confident, authoritative, and aggressive.
You have the classic “Type A” personality.
You are a very lucky person. Things just always seem to go your way.
You are a seeker. You often find yourself restless – and you have a lot of questions about life.
You are truly an original person. You have amazing ideas, and the power to carry them out.
Success comes rather easily for you…..HHHHMMMMMMM.

“A Parents View Of Drug Addiction And Recovery” We Can Recover!

Hello Recovery Friends, Seekers, And Welcome New Friends,

I have many recovery friends and supporters who are always there for me when I seem to have a rough day, need direction, or just a friend to talk to and lean on every now and then. Even those of us who are in “long-term” recovery always need a “lift Up” at times. Being in recovery means being aware of how you handle life challenges and trials that may come our way. And yes, we learn many skills and tools to cope with this, but we still need to have a good, healthy support system we can rely on when things get a little hard to handle.

That’s where were my good friend, “Aaron Emerson” comes in. He is a wonderful supportive recovery pal. He’s more in early recovery, but the growth he has accomplished is amazing. No, we have not met face to face, but I know he was “Spiritually” brought into my life for a reason. I learn so much as I follow his recovery on-line, and all the awesome work he AND HIS father, Wes are doing together to help others with recovery, and outreach work to help those with drug addiction and more!

I happen to read their new email blog update of Aaron’s father. It’s a new post on their helpful website, “New Life Recovery Outreach” http://www.newliferecoveryoutreach.org  and it’s so touching and has good insights of a “Parents Point Of View”…
So I thought I would share it with all of you…
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A Boy is Healed
By Wes Emerson
3-14-2014
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 One of the exciting aspects of my son Aaron’s recovery from heroin addiction is that doors are beginning to open for him to share his story publicly with others in various places.  As a recovering person, Aaron has a passion to help others who struggle with addiction.  This coming Sunday, Aaron and I have been invited to share our “story” at a church in Jackson, Michigan, speaking to a youth group, as well as their parents.  We thank God for this opportunity to reach out, and pray that God will use us as his instruments.  Here is a preview of what I plan to share with these precious people.
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As I thought about my part in this presentation, a gospel story in Matthew 17 came to mind.  The heading over this passage in my Bible states, “A Boy is Healed.” In this story, a very troubled Dad approached Jesus on behalf of his young son.  Kneeling before the Savior, he asked for mercy on behalf of his son, whose life was out of control.  The Dad diagnosed his son’s problem as Epilepsy-a condition which causes loss of control of the body; fainting; shaking, and the inability to move.  The caring Father told Jesus that his son “suffers severely and often falls.”  The boy’s Father could not help him.  Further, the loving Dad took his son to Jesus disciples, but they were not able to help him, either.  This sounds a lot like drug addiction and the effects it has on its victims and families.
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In verse 18, Jesus gave a different diagnosis: the young man was demon possessed. In 30 years as a Pastor, I have never encountered a “demon possessed” person.  But, according to the scriptures, demons are real.  Demons exist in our world and they torment people.  In my experience, I have dealt with many people whose lives are tormented by the devil.  A scripture in the New Testament, 1 Peter 5:8 calls the devil “your adversary, who walks like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.” What a sobering statement!  There is a real devil who seeks to destroy people’s lives.

I would like to talk about one of the biggest ways Satan is controlling and devouring the lives of young people today: through drugs.  Like the young man in Matthew 17, drugs lead to “severe suffering.” Drugs are Satan’s weapons.  They lead to addiction…suffering…the ruination of lives, and ultimately, the taking of lives.  In Matthew 17, Satan had this young man under his control, and he tormented him daily.  This boy was helpless, and so too, was his Dad, who desperately desired to see his boy set free.  Can you relate to this story?  It is strikingly similar to what drugs do to young people and their loved ones!

Based on my personal experience, I believe drugs are a demonic influence in our present generation. Drug use changes people’s personalities.  Drugs become the God in the user’s life.  Drugs ruin hopes and dreams.  They lead to legal consequences, jail, and prison.  Drugs tear families apart, and drugs claim lives on a daily basis.

I have personally witnessed the demonic power of drugs in my own family.  I have been a Christian since 1973.  I have pastored 6 churches in a span of 30 years.  I have been married for 34 years, and have four children and four grandchildren.  And yet I, like so many others, have become, as they say, “the face of addiction.”

You see, I was much like the Dad we meet in the Gospel of Matthew, chapter 17.  In 2006, my son, Aaron began using drugs, and in a brief period of time, he became totally addicted. My son was an addict!  His life was out of control. Allow me to remind you about who Aaron was, and is. Aaron is a good kid with many fine qualities (caring, sensitive, humble, sincere, and loyal).  He became a Christian at a young age, and was raised in a loving, stable family in a small town. Aaron has always loved his family, his brothers and sister, parents and extended family. We are a very close-knit family. He was also an outstanding athlete-a 3 sport star in baseball, football, and basketball.  I truly believed he had a bright future in baseball in particular; he was so gifted as an athlete.

However, the demon of drugs got ahold of Aaron’s life.  For seven long years, I watched him suffer, and like the Dad in Matthew 17, I couldn’t help my son.  He quit all of his sports.  He dropped out of school.  He lost all of his true friends.  He got into legal trouble and became entangled in the legal system.  Aaron spent months in juvenile detention centers, and very lengthy periods of time in jail.  He could have gone to prison.  He was in and out of rehab facilities, and he overdosed on several occasions and nearly died on a number of instances.

By 2013, I was at the point of desperation. As I have shared previously, I thought my son was going to die and I began to prepare emotionally (if that is possible) for the loss of my child.  Finally, I came to the point of simply letting go and letting God.  There was nothing more I could do.  It was up to God, and Aaron.  Like the father in Matthew 17, I was desperate and all I could do was turn Aaron over to God.

Do you remember the heading I referenced above the passage in Matthew 17?  “A boy is healed.”  Well, in that biblical story, Jesus cast out a demon that was dwelling within that young man.  The boy was delivered and healed!  Jesus Christ has a power over the devil and his demon forces.

Today, the good news is that Aaron has been delivered and he has been healed by Jesus Christ.  Aaron finally reached the point where he truly wanted to be delivered and healed.  He was sick of being sick!  Jesus has performed yet another miracle, and I am so thankful to say that he has been totally clean for 10 months.  It’s a daily struggle, each day at a time, but thank God, my boy is healed.  This, my friends, is our story and I pray that it brings inspiration to you today!

Click HERE to share this blog on Facebook!
New Life Recovery Outreach
517-763-5503
twitter.com/recoverynewlife   www.facebook.com/newliferecoveryoutreach
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Dad and Me New

(Aaron Emerson and his father, Wes Emerson)
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Was that not just an awesome blog share! They both have “Love for the Lord” as I do! And the lord has performed “Miracles” in Aaron’s recovery as he has mine. Even though I’m a recovering addicted gambler, and a wee too much alcohol when I gambled, I learn so much about other addictions from many of my recovery friends. One thing I do find interesting though, the habits, poor choice’s, and behaviors are very much the same from one addiction to another.
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Also, the shame, low self-worth, denial, blame, and others is also them. These are just a few of the things I learn when I meet others in recovery from other types of addictions.
I want to Thank Aaron for always letting me share his “Recovery Outreach Blog Posts”!
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I encourage you to Visit their website, follow them on Twitter & Facebook too! And as always, let Aaron & Wes know “Catherine Lyon” sent you!
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God Bless Everyone!,
Author Catherine Townsend-Lyon

 

“A Unique First Day Of Mental Health Services In Arizona. They Got THIS!”

Hello Friends And Welcome New Visitors,

Since moving here to the State of Arizona via So. Oregon, I had a very interesting experience at my new Mental Health & Behavioral Center here in Glendale, AZ.
It’s because of the new health insurance changes with “Obama care,” I now have two different insurance services, and two different doctors. One for my “Primary Care,” and a different doctor for all my mental health needs, which are free and billed through a separate insurance and meds provider then my medical health. Now I’m aware of the past shooting here in Arizona that made national news about Gabby Gifford, but after what I went through yesterday for my first visit for mental health service, I’m shocked that it even happened.

Let me tell you why. I had never been through such a rigorous mental health screening process like they have here in Arizona. AND,….it was only my intake, and to be assigned a service councilor. I go back in a week to have my full mental evaluation, meet my psychiatrist who will be treating me, and filling my meds. They set up a new mental health plan for me, and then I check in with my service councilor every month! So I’m blown away on how “In-depth” the State of Arizona is of Mental Health Care. My councilor said that much of the information he collected about me will help track those who have mental illness & issues, so hopefully no more people can fall through the cracks of not getting the help and care they need.

Soon it will also be used as a tool to aid with making sure those of us who do suffer ALL  levels of mental illness, service providers will be able to better track clients to help with Suicide Prevention, Gun Control issues in the future, ( those who have mental illness should not have fire arms). I think this an excellent way of being able to help the “Public be Safe, as well as the person who suffers.

Lets face it, we have seen these past months, and just resent of mothers driving their mini vans into the ocean with kids in the van, trying to commit Suicide! We have read and seen all the gun violence and shootings by mentally ill people who have fallen through those cracks of “needed mental health services.” We have seen SUICIDE rise to the highest levels in years due to unmonitored people who suffer or stop taking their medications.

We have even seen what can happen when family tries to get their children,young adults, or even a spouse to be seen or treated just to be told there are no beds open or service available and they are released, or get NO HELP at all!  And we all know how the stories play out right? A Senator from Virginia had that experience with his son, no beds were available so he was released and ended up stabbing his father before he then took his own life. The same with Pastor, Rick Warren and his wife, except they knew their son had mental disorders and they helped him get a gun? WHAT?
So the place I went to yesterday has  offers free services for the families who help and care for loved ones with mental illness. When is all this loss of “precious life” going to stop? It needs to stop!

So plain and simple, I feel all States in the US should really explore, and investigate the model of how mental health services are being provided here in Arizona. Due to copy right laws, I can not speak of the specifics, but I can tell you where I went where I received services so you can “Google” them online to all they have to offer. They also offer for free as part of my service plan, recovery help and class’s like, anger management, drug, alcohol, and a wide variety of support group class’s as well. The center is called Terros, Inc.”Inspiring Change For Life” and they have a couple of locations in Glendale and Phoenix AZ. They also offer primary health care services as well all in one convenient location. All this is free, and is part of my “Behavioral Health Service Plan” made for me, and all covered with my State Health Insurance Plans. They will help me with life skills to lessen my panic attacks, agoraphobia, and I’ll learn new life skills to manage and reduce my manic bipolar depression and other disorders.

Since yesterday was my first appointment, I will come back and share my full experience  after each visit and blog what I learn. It just might help others. I can not tell you how impressed I was after my first visit, which did take 2 1/2 hours, but a lot of it was new patient paper work and interview. The laws about mental illness are very different here in Arizona compared to Oregon. It’s all about care and medication control, which is another plus I feel strongly about. Since 70,000 people misuse their prescription meds each day, that is another reason Arizona keeps close track of their clients through places like Terros, Inc. Even my Primary Care Doctor can not prescribe my Bipolar meds, I have to go through a Mental Health Center to get the meds I need to be monitored properly.

So if you happen to live in Arizona, I can tell you that this state and the laws regarding Mental Health Services are exceptional, and how they help and care for those who suffer from mental illness and disorders. You get GOOD CARE here! I think all states should do the same. It may not stop all the heart breaking tragedy’s that have happened all over the US from unstable mentally ill people, but it is a HELL of a good start!

God Bless All,
Author, Catherine Townsend-Lyon

“Always Remember, We Have A Friend In Jesus” A Special Guest Blog Share From My Good Bud “Trey Z Guy”…

Hello Recovery Friends, Seekers, and Welcome New Pals,

I wanted to share an interesting take of a conversation with the Lord by my good pal and fantastic blogger/writer “TreyZ Guy” and his blog “Imagine” http://treyzguyblog.com  Now I know I could do the usual Re-blog, but I feel that’s not good enough for my pal, as Trey always deserves a “FABULOUS” INTRO”! S0,…here is Trey’s *Special and Spiritual* blog post titled: “Me and Jesus”….ENJOY!
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TREYZ GUY, MAN OF MYSTERY….
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“Me and Jesus broke up a few months ago”….

It was a tumultuous relationship at best, mostly on my part.

It seems that I am needy, and kind of a bitch.

Jesus never called me that to my face, but I could see it in his eyes when I would start on one of my “But you promised’ rants.

He’s been very patient with me and has tolerated my little outbursts now and then.

Even after I dumped him and told him that I didn’t believe anything he had ever told me and that I doubted that he had ever even loved me.

I said that all of those Facebook meme’s that he keeps posting on my page is just a poor attempt to stay all up in my business.

I told him that I didn’t appreciate him using his position as the “Son of God’ to influence my friends into subconsciously posting all that crap.

“Why can’t you just leave me alone?” I asked

“I don’t wanna” he said.

“That’s not a very mature reason” I said.

“Deal with it!” he popped off.

I felt like punching him in the eyeball, but it just doesn’t seem right to give Jesus a black-eye, lord knows I’ve tried.  (Pardon my pun)

“It’s over, we have nothing in common” says I.

“What do you mean?” he said “You love Jethro Tull, I love Jethro Tull.”

“What about Black Sabbath?” I said, kinda like a snot.
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“Everybody loves Sabbath” He said. “I…Am…Iron-Man….” He starts to sing, then stops and grins that grin.

“God you’re annoying sometimes” I said. (There’s that damn pun again)

“You know you love me…” he says, like he’s all that.

“So…….I love bacon too, but I can live without it……for a while.” I said.

Real mature….I know.

“Let me put it this way, so you can understand me there Big Dawg….” He says

“I am like your Granny’s refrigerator……you may leave for a while and not come visit me for some time but when you do, there is always something here for you and you don’t even have to ask”

He smiles….

Why did that make sense to me….?

AHA!

“You’re using my starvation on this diet against me, talking about refrigerators!” I surmised.

“I do what I have to, to get your attention” He put a hand on my shoulder….

I shrugged my shoulder and brushed his hand away.

“What about all those years I was drunk, losing my kids, all that abuse I got when I was just a kid!’

I was getting mad again….Not mad maybe…..Betrayed…?

“I was there” he said

“Well….” I said “I never saw you, I never heard anything, I didn’t get no miracle saving me”

I was being petulant now.   I wanted to hurt him….   I wanted to break his heart.

He just stood there looking at me, his hands in his pockets….waiting for me to finish I guess.

“You never went far” he said quietly after I had stood there for a minute staring at my shoes. I looked up at him and frowned.
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When I didn’t say anything to this, Jesus said “Everyone on this world has to walk their own path, everyone on this world has to make their own way and find out what is most important to them, to know that there is more to life than suffering and pain.”

“I didn’t want to walk that particular path” I replied, a little snide jab.

“Neither did I….” he said. “But I did.”

He had a good point.

I couldn’t argue with that. I wanted too……but I couldn’t.

I only had to bear a cross, not hang from one.

“Okay…I’m sorry, forgive me for being such an asshole” I said.

I held out my hand.

He took my hand and pulled me into a bear hug with a hard pat on the back.

I hugged him back, a little tentatively at first, and then I gave him a good hug.

“You are an asshole…..I have to admit that” Jesus said to me with that grin and look that always follows you around a room when you walk by one of his paintings.

“But that’s one of the reasons I dig you baby!” He said.

“Let’s go get a Starbucks” I offered.

“Starbucks is of the devil” Jesus said.

“I couldn’t agree more” I said.

“But,”… He added with a wink “I do love me a Peppermint Mocha”

“You have to put on some shoes, they won’t serve us if you ain’t got no shoe’s on” I said, looking at his feet.

Man those nail holes freak me out sometimes.

Jesus looked down at his feet, wiggled his toes and said “They won’t serve ugly people either, but I’m going with you.”

Funny…..I thought. A million comedians are out of work and I get this guy.

But not to be out-done, and feeling better about hanging out with my old buddy again, I couldn’t help it….

He was waiting for me to say something, he knew that I was an asshole….that much he had admitted to, but he also knew that I am a smart ass….

He knows me so well….

I hate that sometimes.

I said “At least I don’t look like a hippie…. you need a hair-cut”

He put his arm around my shoulder, grinned that grin and said in a deep mocking baritone voice;

“Walk with me”
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I looked at him….he looked at me.

Then we both bust out laughing.

He gave me a quick rabbit punch in the stomach, and shouted “Race ‘ya!”

He took off running towards the Starbucks, still barefoot.

I hollered “You run like a girl!”

Jesus flipped me the bird over his left shoulder, never breaking stride.

I smiled and took off after him.

He was holding the door open for me when I caught up to him, that grin again.

“Don’t say it” I panted.

In his terrible baritone voice he said “Knock and it shall be opened…’ he smiled bigger.

Some people’s kids I thought….“You first” I said with a deep courtly bow.

“Right behind you” he said.

Now I understand…..Now I get it….

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SO, When was the last time you had a conversation with Jesus? Well?
Author, Catherine Townsend-Lyon
Thanks Treyz for a Great Blog post to share!


“An Important Share From My Good Friend “Les Bernal” Of Stop Predatory Gambling”

Hello Friends And Welcome New Visitors,

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I happen to get my weekly email a few days ago from the good people who keep MANY HONEST about “Predatory Gambling”….
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When I read this report PDF from Les and “Stop Predatory Gambling” I knew I needed to share IT! Many of our Seniors are now being preyed upon by the MANY Casino’s popping up in all States. And I’m sorry but it’s not FAIR, and Cruel! Many Seniors these days really don’t have the extra money to be gambling with to begin with, but I understand it is a form of Fun & Entertainment for them, and something to do to get out of the house. OK,…I get that, but then many become Problem Gamblers, or worse addicted and end up in a BAD WAY. So if you have loved ones who may like to gamble, please share this report with them and urge them to “Gamble Responsibly”……
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View full size PD file Gamblers at Presque Isle Downs & Casino near ...
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“Report Shows How Casinos Affect Seniors”

Senior citizens are becoming more and more prone to problem gambling due to casinos, according to a new report by the Institute for American Values. Seniors are particularly vulnerable to slots and similar electronic games, some of the most highly addictive and highly profitable for casinos. – See more at: http://stoppredatorygambling.org/blog/new-report-shows-how-casinos-affect-seniors/#sthash.2vHzm77E.dpuf  *PLEASE CLICK TO VIEW THIS PDF REPORT*
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Here is just a little Preview of the REPORT….

A Casino Land Report…

IAV and its partners are conducting a series of investigations called “Casino Land: America in an Age of Inequality.” The goal is to understand the meaning and role of casinos in American life—how they work and what they do, the values they embody and transmit, their impact on civil society, their connection to government, and their relationship to the rise of American inequality. This report is a part of that series.
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Seniors in Casino Land Tough Luck for Older Americans….

Introduction:

As with many adventures, I didn’t know I was on one until I was deep in the belly of a south Louisiana casino where thirty-five-cent bets flowed faster than the free Diet Coke. My elbow rested on the walker of a silver-haired gentleman as I craned my neck to hear him over the sounds of the Lucky 7s slot machine. He worried I was going to waste all my money, and I thanked him for his grandfatherly concern. As our attention returned to the screens before us, we sank into silence, enveloped in waves of pulsating sound and light.
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As a parish pastor and a hospice chaplain, connecting to the lives of older Americans had led me to kitchen tables, hospital bedsides, and even prisons. I am no stranger to those literally facing death or to those thinking about how deadly their lives have become. In every place, my role is not to give answers but to listen and help those around me find sources of hope in the midst of despair. My work often serves the most vulnerable populations, especially seniors, and has resulted in my fervent belief that everyone deserves to age with dignity and grace on their own terms, connected to places that give their lives meaning: homes, neighborhoods, favorite restaurants, places of worship, local parks, even shopping centers.
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Should casinos be added to this list? I had never thought much about casinos, in part because frequenting one never appealed to me personally. As a pastor, I had heard passing mention of bus trips to the casino, but when I started doing some research into the topic, I was shocked to learn that seniors often name gambling as their favorite form of entertainment.1 According to the American Gaming Association’s State of the States annual report, casino gambling has become one of the country’s fastest growing industries: commercial casinos in the twenty-three states that license them earned more than $37 billion in gross gaming revenue in 2012 alone. 2 One-third of the U.S. population visited a commercial casino in 2012 and more than half of those people were aged fifty and older. 3 Little research was done on trends in geriatric gambling until the late 1990s, when the National Gambling Impact Study Commission reported that the number of older adults who had ever gambled in their lifetime had more than doubled from 35 percent in 1975 to 80 percent in 1998. 4 A flurry of studies soon followed, focused mostly on compulsive and problem gambling.
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When I did a search engine query for “seniors and casinos” on the Internet, I found that almost every casino website offers special marketing incentives and identifiers for the over-fifty-five crowd. 5 Some promote breakfast and lunch deals for the “golden grays,” 6 and dub the niche market of senior women “the blue hairs.” 7 The “third of the month club” is a come-on for older adults who head straight to casinos after receiving their social security checks.
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8 Well-stocked with wheelchairs and scooters, casinos often provide more handicapped spots than are required by law. Casino bathrooms are supplied with disposal boxes for diabetic needles and attendants keep a stash of adult diapers on hand. 9 One casino in Nevada even introduced an in-house pharmacy where 8,000 slot club points cover the $25 co-pay. 10 Writing about casinos, Gary Rivlin coined the phrase “day care for the elderly,” 11 a description that quickly caught on with other journalists. Could this be true? Is fifty-five considered elderly? If so, are casinos becoming day care for the fifty-five and older set?
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Both the casino industry’s definition of elderly and the concept of casino-as-day-care offended me. Still, I had to admit, I had never been to a casino, let alone in the middle of a weekday when most seniors visit. 12 My IAV colleagues encouraged me to find out—to visit casinos, eat at the buffets, play the slot machines, and talk to as many seniors as I could—so I checked out local casinos in four different communities: on the Gulf Coast of Louisiana, in the farm country of northwest Iowa, and two big city venues in Yonkers and Queens, New York. I met gracious seniors at every turn, most well past their fifty-fifth birthday, many with mobility and health challenges, all looking for a meaningful way to pass the time. They told me about their lives and helped me to understand what drew them to the casino.
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I discovered an artificially constructed world: Casino Land. However, unlike Disneyland, coined the “happiest place on earth,” I came away from my four visits to Casino Land feeling deeply sad. On first glance, I discovered positive aspects, for instance the level of accommodation made for those with physical disabilities. But on further inspection, questions arose. Why are casinos so friendly? Why take such pains to make those who struggle with basic necessities like an affordable meal, toileting, even walking, feel welcome?
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The answer always came back to the slot machine. The mesmerizing design of the ubiquitous electronic gambling machine absorbs the time and money of many seniors, while exploiting their loneliness, idleness, and boredom.
When seniors wonder, “What else do I have to do?”casinos answer, “Sit here, put your money in until it’s gone, and maybe you’ll be ‘lucky’ (wink, wink).” Casino advertisements show exuberant couples nestled at slot machines, laughing and cheering one another on. This is not what I found. I met solitary individuals who often came back to life, happy to engage in conversation only after I broke into their slot machine-induced trance. Casino proponents may claim that the “fun” and “conversation” I experienced is normal, but it is not.
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I had to work to engage people. Nothing in the environment—from the dim lighting to the level of machine noise—encouraged conversation or interaction with other humans. Sitting at a slot machine felt like being stranded in the ocean in a small inner-tube, trying to connect to other isolated swimmers against the persistent undertow. I spent about three to four hours visiting each of the four casinos on my list, arriving around 11:00 a.m. and leaving around 3:00 p.m. Although I cover more detail about the two casinos in New York, all of my experiences were fairly interchangeable. In retrospect, my excursion felt like one long casino trip that started in Baton Rouge and concluded in Queens. I did not formally recruit participants, but simply sat down next to strangers, asked questions, and listened.
This is my report from the glitzy, senior-filled world of Casino Land…..
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IS THAT NOT the most “insightful, powerful, and frightening” Introduction you have ever read? So I encourage you to click on the link above provided and read the rest of the Report. It will blow you away! Like it’s not bad enough that new stats out recently, that 1% of the US population are addicted or problem gamblers? WHAT??? And that not only is our Seniors becoming problem gamblers, our College Age Young Adults are as well to the tune of 6% of College adults are problem gamblers too!……
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So please, if you care about your elderly parents, grand parents, friends, and NOW your college young adults, please take the time to read the report. As I just celebrated my 7th year in Recovery from “Addicted Compulsive Gambling” myself, I worry about others who may become addicted. It’s why I have 2 blogs here. I want those who are know that they are NOT ALONE, and there is HELP and Recover is Possible!

God Bless Friends,
Author, Catherine Townsend-Lyon
http://www.amazon.com/dp/0984478485 “Addicted To Dimes” My Story.

I Welcome “Dr. John McMahon” And How He Helps And Shares Hope To Alcoholics…

Welcome Recovery Friends, Seekers, And New Visitors,

There are times when I meet others who “help & share Hope” to others who are recovering addicts, I like to “Spotlight” what they do on my blog here. My new friend Dr. John McMahon and his wife Lou are fabulous people, and they care about those who have been touched by “Alcohol Addiction”…..
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I actually met John on LinkedIn as he posted a project and book he is working on “All About others Stories of Recovery,” and I decided to submit my story of addicted gambling and alcohol. I began to explore all his wonderful, and informative websites. That’s when I knew I needed to “Share” all he does with my blog readers, as I have many who visit me who have other addictions besides Addicted Gambling.
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See, I share “all things recovery” from “addicted compulsive gambling,” but I also share other addictions on my blog, because many are very similar from one addiction to the other. Many of the same “BAD” habits, behaviors, and mental and physical symptoms are the same. Like the helpful “Relapse Prevention Guide” I have listed on my resources pages, it can be used for ANY addiction. I actually went to “AA meetings” until I could find a local GA meetings (Gamblers anonymous) in my area. Many other 12-Steep meetings and books are modeled from “Alcoholics Anonymous” as they been around a very long time. But John & Lou’s approach is different, and it’s what caught my attention!
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John’s website http://bottled-Up.com  Is also what caught my eye from his “LinkedIn Profile.” Hopefully that doesn’t sound creepy….LOL, as a writer, I have to do my research! Here is a little more about his web sights and a Wee Bit about John & Lou….
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Dr John McMahon & Lou Lewis - Author, Counselor/Therapist, Pastoral Counselor, Psychologist, Relationship Coach, Speaker/Presenter, YourTango Expert Partner - Exeter, DEV
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John McMahon ~ I (John) have a PhD in psychology and for years was senior lecturer on the MSc course on alcohol and drug studies. However before that I was hospitalized for alcoholism. My marriage broke up, doctors told me I had brain damage and liver damage and if I continued to drinking that I had around six months to live. I have been clean and sober now for over 28 years.

I practised as a therapist, designed and run treatment programs for addiction problems. Until recently I was the lead author of and senior lecturer on the largest Master’s level course on alcohol and drugs in the UK. This course was designed for addiction counsellors, psychologists and GP’s. I have carried out research, mainly on behaviour change in addictive behaviours and binge drinking, and have published widely and have been invited to speak at many conferences, both national and international.

More recently I designed and built an award-winning self-help website for people with drinking problems – 24/7 Help Yourself.

We are a married couple. I married Lou (then a widow) in 2008. As you can see above we have both have experienced drinking problems in previous relationships and we bring this knowledge to the website and the associated seminars and workshops. Between us we have, if not a unique experience then certainly a highly appropriate background.

“How we met is an amazing story if you are interested ask us and we may tell the story”…
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Lou Lewis  ~ I (Lou) was married to a drinker for 29 years till his death from cancer. During that time I ran a home and raised two children in that environment with very few people, including quite close friends, being aware of the situation.

I am a classically trained musician, a graduate of the Royal College of Music, London. For many years I was a singer / songwriter, made 7 albums and toured the UK, USA and South Africa giving concerts and workshops.  Although I still write and play, I don’t have the same opportunities that I had.

My autobiography, No Easy Answers, has been described as a moving and revealing book  “Giving hope to those suffering from deep emotional problems and encouragement to friends who try to help them.” and was often used as a reference book for counsellors.

Currently I have my own flourishing counselling practice where I see clients with a variety of issues, including relationship problems….
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*WELCOME TO BOTTLED-UP
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Many of the people who come to us, come because they love their drinker not because they want rid of him/her.

We are not going to tell you what to do.  However we will provide information and resources that will help you to make the right choice for you and your family.  And we will support you regardless of the decision that you make.  after all this is your life.

Most people come to us because they are confused, frustrated and feeling helpless.

We are here to help.  Lou lived with an alcoholic for 29 years and John is an alcoholic and addict who has been clean and sober for nearly 30 years.  However they are also professionals. Lou is a counsellor with her own practice and John is a Psychologist who taught alcohol and drug counsellors, GPs and psychologists about addiction and its treatment.

One of the features that most people find very useful is that we will talk about the issue from both sides, the alcoholic and the partner. This will provide you with some insight not only into what works and what doesn’t but also why some things that you feel should work, just don’t.  Wouldn’t you like to understand what is going on in your drinker’s mind?

Many people come here because they are looking for the magic formula to make their drinker stop drinking.

We really wish that this was something we could offer you.  If we did have it, we would be millionaires now – because no one has that formula.  Sorry.

What we do have is a way to change your life for the better.  That is one thing that we do promise – that if you follow our program, your life will improve.  And maybe, as a side effect of your change, your drinker will change, but that is not something that we, or anyone else, can promise.

Many people come here because they are looking for privacy and anonymity.

That is something that we can give you.  You can be as anonymous and private as you want to be.  Some join the website and stay in the background, others spend a lot of time-sharing on the forum.  The choice is yours, no one will tell you what to do in this website.  And if there are things you don’t like, just leave it aside, you will find plenty of other good stuff that can help.

Most people who come here are looking for information.

That is something that we have plenty of.  If you like to read we have lots of articles.  If you would rather watch it then we have about 6 hours of video.  If you would rather download it and go for a walk with your mp3 player or listen in the car then we have about 36 hours of audio.  If you prefer to interact with the information then we have 12 workbooks, a blog and a forum.  If you would rather that the information came to you then we have two types of daily messages (motivational and spiritual) you can sign up for so they will be delivered to your email inbox and there are also frequent newsletters.  So if information is your thing then we have something for you, in whatever way you like to consume it.

“At Bottled-up we have taken the best of traditional programs and blended it with new research, then filtered it through our own personal experience to create a new unique program of action.  Our goal was to create a program that will empower you to take more control of your life. 

The Bottled Up website was originally opened in autumn of 2009 and since then we have had time to refine the original program, through feedback from members, writing the Bottled Up book and creating a step by step version complete with audio and workbooks.”
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Using the tools in Bottled Up you can

  • Improve your home and social life
  • Reduce the impact of drinking on your life
  • Improve your relationship
  • Make it more likely that he will get help for his drinking. 

We will take you by the hand and show you step by step how to use Bottled Up to improve your life style and to help yourself.  Bottled up is designed to specifically achieve a number of goals.  These are:

  • To ensure safety for you, your family and your home
  • To improve and preserve your relationship with your drinker (although we do recognise that this may not always be possible)
  • To create a smooth dialogue between you and your drinker, where you can discuss drinking issues in a practical and productive way.
  • To give you information, advice and practical solutions and show you what behaviours only make matters worse and how to reduce them.
  • To help you feel more in control of your situation and to empower you
  • To reduce the impact of drinking on your life and family.

If you want to join us then click here.  Join bottled Up

Lou and John
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*John has authored several books as well! Here are a couple of them and can be purchased through Amazon.com*….
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John McMahon
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Product Details  Product Details
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His other two websites are also very helpful and are worth a Visit Too! http://www.iloumanate.com  & http://www.247helpyourself.com
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About 24/7 Help Yourself:

Who Developed this Site?
The online programme this site offers was developed by Dr John McMahon.  He has a PhD in Psychology and is an expert in the field of Addiction Treatment and Behavioural Change.  He has also spent many years as a therapist and has pioneered the use of computer assisted treatments since the early 1990’s. This site is the culmination of a life’s work dedicated to helping people recover from alcohol addiction.
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Why Does it Work?
Recent research shows that majority of people (4 out of 5) recover from their addiction problems without the aid of medical treatment. People help themselves using the resources and support around them.  The 24/7 Help Yourself Site adds significantly to this support network and greatly increases your chances of making a full recovery.
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What Does the Site Contain?
The video below gives you a demonstration of the site so that you can see the layout and the tools that will be at your disposal.
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*Here are a couple “Testimonials” of what others say about how 24/7 Help Yourself, and how it has helped them!*…
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“After years of thinking about my drinking problem, things finally came to a head with my spouse. Knowing that if I didn’t do something about it I was at great risk of ending it.
Like many I had thought about AA, but for reasons was not comfortable with the concept, but being at wit’s end decided I would try. I hopped on my trusty computer and “Google” for closest meeting, and there sitting on my screen was ” 24/7 HelpYourself.com “, what a catchy name. After reading overview I was intrigued. Being that I couldn’t find a meeting and was extremely uncomfortable with AA concept. I jumped in feet first.
Being 79 days in, I look back with no regrets. The information and self testing was great. Once I got involved the support and the stories just seemed to make the challenge so much easier than I envisioned. I look forward to reading the posts and at times miss not being in touch. I would strongly suggest this site, it is truly one of the better tools that I have found on the internet.”
AP, San Antonio, TX
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Lack of knowledge harmed me as much as the at risk levels of alcohol consumption. The two things I rate at the top of things I learnt from 24/7 help yourself is that total abstinence for its own sake is the wrong goal for me.  24/7 gave me the tools to reduce my consumption from 125 units to 3 units per week over a two month period and now I PREFER not to drink at all when alcohol is offered. The website has been my personal trainer and guide to a very happy lifestyle.
Jen, Australia

*So if you or someone you care for has a drinking problem, pass on this fantastic information to them and others. Dr. John & and his wife TRULY are saving and changing lives one Member at a time! When we all work together in recovery, we than can help others who suffer, and are stuck in the “Cycle” of any addiction. We need to find GOOD helpful websites like Dr. John McMahon’s to encourage those addicted to reach out for help and learn to live a better life in recovery. It’s what I do on both my blogs. We Raise Awareness and Share HOPE.*
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Here are a few places you can connect with Dr. John McMahon & Lou…
www.amazon.co.uk/Dr.-JohnMcMahon/e/B001HQ5G50

uk.linkedin.com/pub/johnmcmahon/9/927/b36/    www.yourtango.com/experts/bottled-up
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Bottled-up/402509145201
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And as always, please let Dr. John that Author, Catherine Townsend-Lyon sent you!
God Bless All!
*Catherine*

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* This wonderful blog post Earned Me My 1st WordPress Milestone on my Writer Blog!! ~ Thanks John and Lou!! *

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