A controversy has erupted in Northeast Jackson as a couple has purchased several homes and then allowed the Oxford House to use them as halfway houses for recovering drug and alcohol addicts. However, none of these "Oxford homes" went through the zoning process in Jackson nor did they receive approval from the city to operate these "homes" in areas zoned for single-family residence. Each "home" apparently contains seven recovering addicts.
One homeowners association sent out this message to its members:
SHERWOOD/AUDUBON AREA SECURITY ASSOCIATION, INC.
As many of you have heard, and as I was told, Oxford House Inc. is planning to open a halfway house at 2230 East Northside Drive. It is my understanding that this group has not taken the proper steps to install a facility such as this in our neighborhood and that zoning compliance may be at issue as well.
A halfway house which by definition is "a center for helping former drug addicts, psychiatric patients, prisoners, and others adjust to life in general society" is not something we welcome in our neighborhood. I am confident that the SAASA Membership is vehemently opposed to such an operation. Attached is a Petition opposing the halfway house.
Hinds County property records state that the address mentioned above is owned by a Ronald Rogers. However, a second mailer states:
Apparently, the proposed halfway house at 2230 E. Northside was recently purchased by Anna Fiser Stephens & Neal Stephens. (KF note: Chancery clerk records show the purchase.) Their intent is to turn the home into a halfway house for recovering drug addicts & alcoholics. This is a business venture for the Stephens. This will be the second home of this type in our area with plans for 8 more (Emphasis added by KF).The couple lives on Newland Drive in Northeast Jackson. The Harvard-educated Mr. Stephens is from Magee. He and his father operate several businesses and programs that focus on education and assistance for the disabled. Mrs. Stephens is the volleyball coach at Jackson Academy and the daughter of local surgeon Dr. Greg Fiser. Jackson Academy partners with Stephens' Dore program to assist disabled students at the school. Program specifics. Efforts to contact Mr. Stephens have not yet been successful. This post will be updated if any information is received from him or his representatives.
While the home is owned by the Stephens, Oxford House, Inc. is orchestrating the placement of residents and servicing the government-funded, subsidized rent payments. Oxford House is based in Silver Springs, Delaware; they operate 1500+ halfway homes, and they target "nicer" neighborhoods. Under the Fair Housing Act, alcoholics & drug addicts are a protected class, which is how this organization has been able to work around zoning laws.
Many residents have been working on this matter, but there are numerous complications that might make this a long-term battle. Unfortunately, action is needed now, as the residents are scheduled to move in this week. The hope is that through an overwhelming amount of phone calls and emails that the Stephens will reconsider going forward with the halfway house. Please take a moment of your time to contact the Stephens, and urge them to abandon this project to protect the best interests of the neighborhood and its residents.
Residents expressed their outrage on the Nextdoor website (Italics were used to distinguish different messages):
Oxford House is the national organization that is renting the house from a local owner. The people who own the home are Neal and Anna Stephens. The Stephens are the ones who are making the decision to rent their property to a halfway house organization. People should not be upset with the Oxford House organization but rather the Stephens.
They have been renting a house on Forest Park Drive to Oxford House since December 2014. We have been trying since that time to get the Zoning Department to act on this zoning violation.
The house was owned by Ronnie Rogers who coaches at JA with Anna Stephens. He must have sold it to her.
Sad that people who work and possibly live in the area could obviously care less about our property values and safety.
Our neighborhood already has too many rent houses and more popping up all the time. This is one of the many potential problems with owners renting their houses.
Here are Oxford House's 39211 houses - 1348 Winterview Dr. Gender: W
Jackson, MS 39211-3234 Total Occupancy: 6
769-572-5302 Charter: 12/15/2013
1365 E Northside Dr Gender: M
Jackson, MS 39211-5602 Total Occupancy: 6
769-572-4650 Charter: 3/1/2014
5914 Medallion Drive Gender: W
Jackson, MS 39211 Total Occupancy: 6
769-572-4663 Charter: 6/1/2014
4404 Forest Park Dr. Gender: M
Jackson, MS 39211 Total Occupancy: 7
228-249-9468 Charter: 11/1/2014
2230 E Northside Dr. Gender: M
Jackson, MS 39211 Total Occupancy: 7
228-249-9468 Charter: 4/1/2015
It IS appropriate for JA officials and area residents to know of any improper commercial activities and zoning violations in close proximity to a wonderful school with an exceptional learning environment and recent multi-million investment in our city. Spann Elementary officials and parents should also be aware of the situation.
Half-way house, car wash, pool hall or strip joint - whatever is allowed in proximity does matter. No matter who owns it, especially if such improper enterprise can be rightfully redressed by requiring compliance with city zoning.
It’s the Stephens’ choice to be in violation – Oxford House just guarantees them revenue, so to avoid protracted litigation regarding fair housing for addicts, we need to keep the main thing the main thing and focus on efforts to halt the property owners from continued intentional misdeeds.
I've made a choice to invest in Jackson and to live in the city. I choose not to stay on the sidelines while opportunistic investors ignore established zoning regulations to line their pockets without regard to 1) city ordinance 2) compliance with neighborhood standards and 3) detrimental risks to property value to the surrounding area.
Despite my recent experience with home burglary (the first time after living here for more than a decade - and within days of the first crew of halfway house renters moving in), let us set aside speculative, albeit real, concerns about safety of unsupervised, congregate living of recovering addicts and comings/goings of visitors. Let’s overlook the lack of ethics or courtesy by the Stephens to be upfront with neighbors about their plans. This is not a “calling” but a calculated model to make money.
There is a proper Zoning change process and they’ve chosen to ignore it. Their actions are intentional, improper and untenable. Actions have consequences – and the reaction from surrounding neighbors should not come as a surprise.
Those of us in the Forest Park neighborhood have been fighting this since December. We are glad others have become aware and hope for a positive outcome with the City not allowing usage which does not comply with current zoning.
I was unaware of these houses, but went to the website after reading the post...the Oxford House website addresses zoning issues (appears they have fought this fight before). It says that amendments to the Federal Fair Housing Act generally allow this sort of zoning exception. I think the city is going to be hard pressed to fight them on allowing this...the city does not have money for basics so if this involves something that might possibly lead to losing litigation I think the city will not fight it. I may be wrong, but Oxford House may be within its legal right to set up these places...
As stated earlier, these halfway houses have generated no small amount of controversy. The petition is posted below.
Kingfish note: Research shows that what Oxford House apparently does is ignore all zoning regulations and import its "recovering addicts" into nicer neighborhoods- and then dares the neighbors to sue or cite zoning violations so the lawsuit can be removed to federal court. Oxford claims that drug and alcohol addicts are disabled and thus protected classes under the Americans with Disabilities Act.
The Oxford House website states:
Oxford House™ is a thirty-four year old concept and system of operation for recovering alcoholics and drug addicts to have a realistic opportunity to get comfortable enough in sobriety to stay clean and sober forever. Houses are always rented.
By renting good houses in good neighborhoods, we have demonstrated that we can be good neighbors all over the country.....Oxford House receives almost all of its funding from federal and state governments. There is also apparently little to no supervision at these "homes" as the website also states:
Oxford Houses are self-run because (1) this permits individuals in recovery to learn responsibility, and (2) the lower cost associated with self-run housing permits extensive replication of houses. Because the houses are self-run and self-supported, it is easier to expand capacity to meet demand rather than requiring individuals to leave in order to make room for newcomers.Oxford House makes no bones about protecting the "rights" of addicts on its website. This page on the Oxford website states its case in a quite adequate fashion. The website also states:
78% of Oxford House residents have served jail time. The average length of jail time is about one year, with a range of few days to more than ten years. This is understandable since as many as 80% of the current jail/prison population are alcoholics and drug addicts. Oxford Houses seem to stop the recycling in and out of jail or treatment facilities....Coming soon to a street near you.
The average number of times an Oxford House resident has been through prior treatment is three, but for about a quarter of residents their Oxford House residency is after their first treatment episode.
258 comments:
«Oldest ‹Older 201 – 258 of 2589:19 - I have $1.2M reasons that I will NEVER move on. My homes (yea I have two in the neighborhood) is my investment and retirement. The same for most people in this neighborhood. These two "Christian Ministry" frauds along with Oxford House just kicked over the fire ant mound. Oxford House doesn't know much about fire ants apparently.
9:27 - NOT a local/city issue. The City of Jackson can do little to nothing. Oxford House has been riding this zoning bull at the NIMBY rodeo for 30 years. They will wipe the floor with us. In fact they brag about how successful they have been.
What they no longer have is Senator Barbara Mickulski (D) Maryland (where Oxford House is located) funneling the US Federal grant money as head of the Senate Appropriations. She is retiring.
Want to see how Mississippi Department of Mental Health is facilitating this travesty:
http://www.dmh.ms.gov/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/Progress-Update-Flyer.pdf
http://www.samhsa.gov/grants/grant-announcements/sm-15-010
First link - go to page 2 and see how MS DMH brags about setting up Oxford Houses in MS.
Second link - how the feds funnel the money to states for this nonsense.
Liberals never cease to amaze me with their level of contempt for people that disagree with their views.
As someone who personally know Neal, I can attest to the fact that despite his Harvard degree he is completely ill-equipped for daily life. He had never held a job in his life until his father bought him a franchise of Dore - which is a complete scam FYI. This man knows nothing of the real world and I can 100% guarantee that he never considered the implications for the neighborhood because he lives in his own little world of sunshine and rainbows. You are not dealing with a man. You are dealing with a spoiled little child that cares about nothing, but how much money is in the bank - just like his father. It's laughable that people would think he actually cares about these addicts. Neal is a sheltered, close minded, judgemental child that blushes when someone uses the word "damn." He's after the dollar...not bettering the world. And obviously he's not concerned with your neighborhood. Neal and his father walk on whoever they have to in order to get what they want. Rise up, Jackson.
LMAO as Jimmie Gates reporting for the C-L using only material he's reading on JJ and Nextdoor.
Here is what the NIH posted about DORE a few years ago.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2835859/
"Curing dyslexia and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder by training motor co-ordination: Miracle or myth?
Abstract
Dore Achievement Centres are springing up world-wide with a mission to cure cerebellar developmental delay, thought to be the cause of dyslexia, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, dyspraxia and Asperger’s syndrome. Remarkable success is claimed for an exercise-based treatment that is designed to accelerate cerebellar development. Unfortunately, the published studies are seriously flawed. On measures where control data are available, there is no credible evidence of significant gains in literacy associated with this intervention. There are no published studies on efficacy with the clinical groups for whom the programme is advocated. It is important that family practitioners and paediatricians are aware that the claims made for this expensive treatment are misleading."
Taxpayers paying for this to be done to children in Mississippi? If it walks like a duck and quacks like a duck...
I am very saddened by reading the comments in this article. Let me first start by saying that I am fortunate enough not to have a substance use disorder, but that is not the case for many Americans. According to Defining the Addiction Treatment Gap (SAMHSA, 2010) and other national data sources, addiction continues to impact every segment of American society .
Sep 28, 2010 – “Drug use is on the rise in this country and 23.5 million Americans are addicted to alcohol and drugs. That’s approximately one in every 10 Americans over the age of 12 – roughly equal to the entire population of Texas. But only 11 percent of those with an addiction receive treatment.”
I would be hard pressed to find an American that has not been impacted by addiction on some level. Maybe it was your mother, father, brother, sister, child, friend, or maybe you are the addict (whether you are aware or not). We have to stop acting as if addiction doesn’t exist. Maybe they are a doctor, teacher, lawyer, writer, or website commentator. Addiction does NOT discriminate, yet you people act as if every addict is a sex molester, thug, or criminal. These are scare tactics and not based on truth or facts. Every person signing the petition likely has a family member that is or has struggled from an addiction-related illness. If not, they are sitting by someone at work or church who has – or visiting a dentist, doctor, or nurse who has. The illustration of the person seeking recovery as that of a sex offender, felon, or murderer is propaganda at its worst. They are people. People who developed some type of addiction. An individual who was in a car wreck and used pain pills and got addicted; a nurse who had access and some bad days at work or used it to help work some long hours ; the individual who grew up in a house with addicted parents but wants to live a better way…. People with addiction problems aren’t “those people” – they are the people you engage with every day in your community – at home, at school, at church – everywhere.
The criminal behavior is trying to have someone fired from their job for renting a home to persons recovering from a substance use disorder. How pretentious can you possibly be? Oh and let’s boycott the medical practice? Do you honestly feel like your money gives you permission to act that way? Your activity is not any different than that of an addict. The only difference is that you hide yours behind wealth and power. I wonder how many pill-popping, stay-at-home moms are driving under the influence in your neighborhood with their children or maybe even your children in their car? I guess they are ok because they don’t live in a home for individuals who are trying to stay sober. How many successful businessmen within your neighborhood stop by the bar for happy hour and drive themselves home in your neighborhood? Just like attorneys, business owners can even be alcoholics! Shock! Yet you are worried about the Recovering Person in your neighborhood that is employed, supported by peers and being drug tested on a regular basis?
Since 1 in 10 persons meet criteria for a substance use disorder, you need not look much farther than your own home or your neighbor’s home to find individuals suffering from alcoholism or drug addiction….in your neighborhood…most likely prescription drug addiction or stimulants like cocaine or Adderall.
We need to take addiction seriously in this country. We have to stop acting like it is the shameful dark secrets within our country and support sober living. Can you imagine the impact that it could have for neighbors to engage themselves with the addicts and really make a difference in someone’s life? Oxford House is having tremendous success in treatment. During 2010, approximately 24,000 individuals lived in an Oxford House for some or part of the year. Of that number 4,332 relapsed [19%] and were expelled, while 7,668 moved out clean and sober.
Please be a part of the success. You are missing an opportunity.
I am very saddened by reading the comments in this article. Let me first start by saying that I am fortunate enough not to have a substance use disorder, but that is not the case for many Americans. According to Defining the Addiction Treatment Gap (SAMHSA, 2010) and other national data sources, addiction continues to impact every segment of American society .
Sep 28, 2010 – “Drug use is on the rise in this country and 23.5 million Americans are addicted to alcohol and drugs. That’s approximately one in every 10 Americans over the age of 12 – roughly equal to the entire population of Texas. But only 11 percent of those with an addiction receive treatment.”
I would be hard pressed to find an American that has not been impacted by addiction on some level. Maybe it was your mother, father, brother, sister, child, friend, or maybe you are the addict (whether you are aware or not). We have to stop acting as if addiction doesn’t exist. Maybe they are a doctor, teacher, lawyer, writer, or website commentator. Addiction does NOT discriminate, yet you people act as if every addict is a sex molester, thug, or criminal. These are scare tactics and not based on truth or facts. Every person signing the petition likely has a family member that is or has struggled from an addiction-related illness. If not, they are sitting by someone at work or church who has – or visiting a dentist, doctor, or nurse who has. The illustration of the person seeking recovery as that of a sex offender, felon, or murderer is propaganda at its worst. They are people. People who developed some type of addiction. An individual who was in a car wreck and used pain pills and got addicted; a nurse who had access and some bad days at work or used it to help work some long hours ; the individual who grew up in a house with addicted parents but wants to live a better way…. People with addiction problems aren’t “those people” – they are the people you engage with every day in your community – at home, at school, at church – everywhere.
The criminal behavior is trying to have someone fired from their job for renting a home to persons recovering from a substance use disorder. How pretentious can you possibly be? Oh and let’s boycott the medical practice? Do you honestly feel like your money gives you permission to act that way? Your activity is not any different than that of an addict. The only difference is that you hide yours behind wealth and power. I wonder how many pill-popping, stay-at-home moms are driving under the influence in your neighborhood with their children or maybe even your children in their car? I guess they are ok because they don’t live in a home for individuals who are trying to stay sober. How many successful businessmen within your neighborhood stop by the bar for happy hour and drive themselves home in your neighborhood? Just like attorneys, business owners can even be alcoholics! Shock! Yet you are worried about the Recovering Person in your neighborhood that is employed, supported by peers and being drug tested on a regular basis?
Since 1 in 10 persons meet criteria for a substance use disorder, you need not look much farther than your own home or your neighbor’s home to find individuals suffering from alcoholism or drug addiction….in your neighborhood…most likely prescription drug addiction or stimulants like cocaine or Adderall.
We need to take addiction seriously in this country. We have to stop acting like it is the shameful dark secrets within our country and support sober living. Can you imagine the impact that it could have for neighbors to engage themselves with the addicts and really make a difference in someone’s life? Oxford House is having tremendous success in treatment. During 2010, approximately 24,000 individuals lived in an Oxford House for some or part of the year. Of that number 4,332 relapsed [19%] and were expelled, while 7,668 moved out clean and sober.
Please be a part of the success. You are missing an opportunity.
Trey Guerieri is the President of the Phoenix Club.
So much for the integrity of that organization.
God knows Jackson has no drug problems and has no need for any thing like this!
Yes. I am a sarcastic SOB.
The city is quickly becoming a crumbling cess pit of crime, drugs and violence and you idiots are attacking the very people who are lighting a candle against the darkness? Lunacy!
I admit that I do not know Anna Stephens nor do I live in the mentioned neighborhoods; however, I do know Dr Fiser and he is an amazing Christian man and surgeon.
As many of you are aware, Easter is this Sunday. I'll bet that many of you plan to attend church to celebrate Easter. While you are at church, I urge you all to please reflect on the reason for this holiday....we celebrate that Jesus died for our sins and then rose from the dead. He lived amongst us and showed us how to live in a way that was pleasing to God. So, now, as you all spew hatred and threats toward these fellow human beings, please realize that it sounds like you have forgotten what Jesus taught us...
"Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves". Romans 12:10
"'Do not seek revenge or bear a grudge against anyone among your people, but love your neighbor as yourself. I am the LORD. Leviticus 19:18
"A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another, even as I have loved you, that you also love one another. 35"By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another." John 13:35
How disappointing if you think you won't be touched by addiction in your loved ones think again. This isn't about harboring criminals. It's about a second chance. Recovery is all around you. At you doctors office, in your lawyers office at your child's school. We are your community. We are your family. We do recover.
11:40/43 AND 12:01 -- HOW'S THE WEATHER IN MARYLAND AT OXFORD HOUSE?
JAMES SAVIK - 11:47 -- From your link we have ascertained in your own words ---- "I am an old hippie with four cats and more albums than I know what to do with" --- go smoke some more dope, play with your cats, and listen to your music, somewhere in CENTRAL MISSISSIPPI. We could less about your opinion.
11:58 --- Dr. Fiser is not the man you describe or he would not have reared a POS daughter who appears to be self-centered, arrogant, and spoiled. It probably was a great selling technique for his "practice" and more importantly the apple doesn't fall far from the tree.
12:011 - I have not seen one negative comment in the many on this site about giving people a second chance. No one is disparaging those who are trying to turn their life around.
Oxford House provides the statistic that 83% of their residents have a criminal record, that's a completely different situation. To all those who are providing your opinion noting that you don't live in the area, your view is irrelevant, as you are not living with the reality of convicted criminals being group-housed on your street with no supervision.
As far as the Stephens "ministry", it would be much more believable if it didn't include them making a huge profit at the expense of retired people and young families who will watch their property values decline while the Stephens keep "moving on up." There are so many worthwhile missions that could use volunteers, unfortunately most don't offer six figure income opportunities. Give us a break with that line.
Blah, blah, blah. Your lectures, after the fact Bible verses and hectoring about second chances are crap. Let us know when the Fisers and Stephens establish a halfway house next door to their own homes. Shoving these houses down people's throat and then telling them afterwards that it is good for them and the Christian thing to do is worth jack shit.
@11:44 as stated in a previous thread in which, you may or may not have read, who am I to speculate. The real estate agent has nothing to do with the property after the close of a house. They are simply there to act as a "mediator" between the buyer and seller. And I can assure you, he would not intentionally sale a house in the NE Jackson area to be used for "halfway homes/ projects", as many of his clients are residents of the NE Jackson community.
Lastly, before you target The Pheonix Club of Jackson and it's members, get your fact straight. Because without the PCOJ, several charitable organizations would not be able to do as much for the community without the fund raising efforts of said organization.
I wonder what Tim Tebow's family thinks of their "close friends", the Stephens, acting like such good Christian neighbors?
When the Stephens and the Fisers donate the 3k monthly profit off each each house that they operate to the neighborhood, then I will believe their ministry.The neighborhood could really get a nice facelift with that kind of continuous monthly donation. Sidewalks, lighting and top notch security. Until they agree to give all their profits to the neighborhood then they are nothing but bottom feeders hiding behind religion.
Amazing how those supporting Oxford House seem to have so many facts and talking points available. Their posts are two or three times longer than most peoples. It's as fu the responses are pre-written and cut-and-paste. But no, I'm sure these are concerned Jackson homeowners, not carpet baggers.
Between working for DORE and this business with the Oxford house, these people really know how to work the federal government. I know someone who has been approached by him for his work for autistic children using "natural, drug-free approaches." These people are bleeding heart liberals who don't mind making a buck while they are at it by manipulating tax money earmarked for these types of programs. That said, I hate that people want to start one of those homes on Newland in retaliation. I know people that live in Heatheron and they are already dismayed by the loss of their property values since they put all of those apartment complexes across Old Canton years ago. And then the HUD houses follow. It has been a steady decline since then. Its a wonder with all of the Stephens' liberal values (smart car and all) that she would stoop to teach at a private school!
I think everyone is misunderstanding the point of Oxford House. It is to help people who have already changed their lives. Addicts and alcoholics live everywhere. Probably half these people objecting have a drug or alcohol issue. We dont ask who cheats on their taxes, commits adultry, or bearts their wives. Neighbors are just neighbors. If we are going to regulate neighbors it all be lonely. And Oxford is not a halfway house. It's a supportive group thriving together.
Oxford House is NOT a halfway house. It is a sober living house.
Sober living homes are often MISTAKENLY referred to as a Halfway House, Rehab Home, Recovery Support Home, Boarding Home, Shelter, Hostel, and even in some cases (mostly derogatory) as a "Flop House".
Sober living homes are affordable, alcohol and drug free environments that provide a positive place for peer group recovery support. Sober housing promotes individual recovery by providing an environment that allows the residents to develop individual recovery programs and become self supporting. Their sole focus is to support the individual in maintaining and developing habits and activities which support their long term sobriety. These homes are only for addicts/alcoholics.
The majority of sober living homes are privately owned and operated by an individual or small partnership. Quality assurance, standards and best practices are achieved and maintained through membership in a sober living coalition or network. These coalitions and networks proved self-governance and self-regulation through peer reviews and inspections. Members are required to meet excellent standards in health, safety and management guidelines. The homes maintain alcohol and drug free environments with resident initiated and maintained recovery support activities. Curfew, drug testing, household chores, cooking and at least one group meeting at the home with sponsers are common. The Sober Living Homes also generally have a mandate the individual is either in school or looking for work. Often times the house is locked from 9 am to 4 pm, at which time residents are expected to be at meetings, work, school, gym or other healthy activities.
None are acute detoxification or treatment centers but generally have a referral listing of detoxification hospitals and outpatient treatment centers in case of relapse or emergency. A sober-living home is NEVER co-ed and generally requires a resident to have a minimum of 30 days clean. After 30-60 days
at the home, residents are generally given an overnight pass.
6:41 and 6:31
How about this from the Oxford House Website:
Q. How many residents have served jail time?
78% of Oxford House residents have served jail time. The average length of jail time is about one year, with a range of few days to more than ten years. This is understandable since as many as 80% of the current jail/prison population are alcoholics and drug addicts. Oxford Houses seem to stop the recycling in and out of jail or treatment facilities.
You clowns are defending the indefensible - of course you don't have much of a hand to work with
6:31 and 6:41
Most everyone would question these people for no other fact than their lack of self discipline with drugs or alcohol to the degree that they've been ostracised by their own families and now must function within a group of similar unknowns while wrestling with their continuing uncertainties.
I'm absolutely amazed at the citizens of Jackson ms. I recently moved out of an Oxford House in Biloxi ms. I lived there for 2 years. It changed my life. 100 % success. Guess what? We are close classified as a single family dwelling. Sursprised? You should do your homework before making such insane judgements upon people seeking to improve their lives. I bet your sweet as you have someone in your family who is an alcoholic or drug addict. And if you do, you would have already discover Oxford House. Don't think your going to badger the home owns to not rent to Oxford House. If you continue to slander these residents you will find a discremination case on you 9n a minute. We make the best neighbors in the US. Mark my words, choose your battles wisely. GOD is watchig. Oxford will not be affected by your ignorence. Actually your going to bring such positive attention to is we will have already started to benifit from the free press. Also 20% of Oxford Residents are Veterans. Put that in your pipe and smoke it. My NE is Ron Canada 228.233.9342 and will be happy to share my success story of Oxford House. Have a nice day!!
I'm absolutely amazed at the citizens of Jackson ms. I recently moved out of an Oxford House in Biloxi ms. I lived there for 2 years. It changed my life. 100 % success. Guess what? We are close classified as a single family dwelling. Sursprised? You should do your homework before making such insane judgements upon people seeking to improve their lives. I bet your sweet as you have someone in your family who is an alcoholic or drug addict. And if you do, you would have already discover Oxford House. Don't think your going to badger the home owns to not rent to Oxford House. If you continue to slander these residents you will find a discremination case on you 9n a minute. We make the best neighbors in the US. Mark my words, choose your battles wisely. GOD is watchig. Oxford will not be affected by your ignorence. Actually your going to bring such positive attention to is we will have already started to benifit from the free press. Also 20% of Oxford Residents are Veterans. Put that in your pipe and smoke it. My NE is Ron Canada 228.233.9342 and will be happy to share my success story of Oxford House. Have a nice day!!
Wow. Most of you poster are judging a book by its cover when it comes to these Oxford houses and its tenants. I'm orginally from jackson and moved to another city where I've lived near an Oxford house. I've met its tenants. I've friended them and watched them become responsible and productive members of society. Yes they have a rough past but I believe Oxford house inc has done a tremendous job at getting them back on track. Sometimes people need a little help. I think what the Stephens have done is amazing. I'm sure none of you know the story of why they are doing what they are doing. You can say it's the money but if I could help Oxford house inc open a house in a good neighborhood I would in a heartbeat. When the tenants move in why don't yall do something neighborly and go interface yourself. Get to know the addicts living there and their stories. I bet some of you would change your minds. And those who don't the lord above will review the judgement you have made on his creation. -H
10:25 - your amazed because you have spent most of your life in selfish pursuit of your own ends and never consider the consequences of your actions. Explains why many of you have to live in group homes because you have no ties to your own families. You move in under the cover of darkness and people with small children and wives are left in danger. Oxford house own website admits that 78% of you are RECENT convicts with some serving up to 10 years. These are not MINOR traffic violations. Many of your houses OPENLY admit sex offenders. These landlords are getting their just desserts for using the twisted interpretation of US Fair Housing laws to get around running a BOARDING HOUSE. YOU ARE UNRELATED ADULT MALES LIVING TWO TO A ROOM. AND YOU TELL US YOUR A FAMILY. Charles Manson used that same definition.
Your threaten everyone with lawsuits and then in the next breath tell us how wonderful you are. Addicts are selfish people who put their own needs and wants above others. Stay out of our FAMILY neighborhoods. And trust me, this is going to be a nation wide alert to this ABSOLUTELY heinous practice of clandestinely moving 7-20 adult males into R1 neighborhoods when the 2000-3000 families you just affected are finished. Your group chose poorly. You put your house 1 block from the Sec of State house and on the same street with a former governors family. Boneheads. You think they are just going to roll out the welcome mat along with the other 3000 in the neighborhood many 2nd and 3rd generation. This is not a transient community like parts of NO, Biloxi, Austin, and all the other cities you have setup shop. This isn't 15, 100, 300 people upset. You stirred up the entire hornets nest hero. Let's see how it works out for you. And in the end, we have the money to COMPOUND EVERY YARD WITH 8 FOOT WALLS. HOW YOU GOING TO LIKE LIVING IN THAT ENVIRONMENT? Take that dried up appeal to the better angels of my nature and STUFF IT.
10:50 - yes Wow. First we all know you are not from Jackson and second you are an Oxford House plant trying to counter the 99.9% negative press your are getting. Get a better script! You suggest we should go meet our new addicted neighbors of 78% just came out of prison. Just like you say you deserve choices so do we. If we had wanted to be social workers, mental health counselors, or correctional staff we would have chosen that career field. We didn't. We did choose our homes and their locations carefully. Your organization is like a parasite that attaches itself to host because it can't survive on it's own. And by your own admission you choose "good neighborhoods". When you are finished with the host it will no longer be a good neighborhood. The property values fall because the homes that normally would sell to other families in the normal course of neighborhood turn over no longer sell. They become rental properties. Rental properties are NEVER maintained because the owner does not live there - they just collect the RENT and the renter doesn't care because it is not their property. I know this is hard for you to follow. You live in the world where everyone else owes you and we should all sacrifice for your bad choices. The selfishness demonstrated by addicts just never stops.
10:25 -- Ron Cannada -- so..........you were in a Biloxi Halfway House run by Oxford House.
1. Are you from Mississippi?
2. If so, we need to vet you:
a. Hometown
b. Age
c. High School Attended and Year Graduated
d. College/University Attended and Year Graduated
e. Do you have family in Mississippi -- if so the town where they reside.
See -- here' the deal.......coming from Florida to Mississippi so you can reside in an Oxford House in Biloxi doesn't "count". Prove your from our state before we'll even hear a word you are saying. Don't spout platitudes and Oxford House propaganda to people in our state, without being "from here". AND REMEMBER -- we'll check!
I lived in an Oxford House in early recovery.. And it saved my life.. The guidelines and structure there showed me a better way of living to go with my new start.. I am happy to say that on Monday I will have 2 years clean
People really post comments before they even do research. They don't make money per resident they have in their home. It is rented just like a normal home for a set rate a month. I'm an alumi of an Oxford House, and Oxford House changed my life. I went from working for a Fortune 500 company in International Human Resources to living on the streets of New Orleans HOMELESS. Yes I have a criminal record all due to my addiction. When I moved into Oxford House it was a HOME. I was safe from the "old neighborhoods". We had chores, had to get our and work, go to meetings and get involved in recovery. Today I am off of probation, have a wonderful job, have my family back and continue to stay in touch with over 200k alumni of Oxford House who haven't relapsed and are productive members of society today. Do more research on Oxford House and learn that if a member stays in a house for 15-18 months 87% never return to active addiction. What other organization out there can u get hard numbers on. NONE. Yes there are no "case managers" on site. But that's what makes it different and in my opinion work. These Gus trusted me to become a member of their house. And we held each other accountable. Had someone been leaning over me telling me what to do I would have relapsed. It was being around others doing what they needed to do to recover that gave me the courage to do it for myself. It's really is sad people focus on the small number of things that happen vs the long list of miracles that have never returned to using drugs or alcohol. Again I say 200 thousand alumni have benefited from living in an oxford house.
The real estate agent who handled all 3 of the Oxford Home buys for the Stephens is reportedly Trey Guerieri, owner of Terramark. They offer neighborhood reports and vaules for buyers on the site. Wonder what his justification is for participating in this mess? If you see him cruising your neighborhood, get ready.
www.terramarkre.com/agents/19931312/trey-guerieri/
5 Star Reviews on his Facebook page: www.facebook.com/TerramarkRE
I've seen some mentions of the Phoenix Club, a Boys & Girls Club support society, and he lists it as his other website on his Facebook page.
Just out of curiosity, do any of you know how many people in Northeast Jackson are productive, responsible members in that city. Now professionals, go out of their way to support their city and state, and are currently addicts in recovery? I know every single one of you are related to or know a recovering addict. Before you continue your bashing of addicts, make sure you know exactly who you are talking about.
All you successful Oxford House recovering addicts, congratulations. I mean that.
But...where are the posts from your fellow housemates who relapsed and went back to the life of addiction and committing crimes to support that addiction and due to that addiction? Eh??? You know, the large number of those who went on to pose an immediate and real danger to the neighboring homeowners and their children? Those that went on to actually commit crimes against their neighbors? Wait, what??? What's that you say??? They're too high and/or drunk and busy committing crimes as I type this to be able to post on behalf of Oxford House? Yeah, that's what I thought. You see, we that's why a family neighborhood full of children is not the proper place for a house full of addicts and criminals...because not all of you are successful in your recovery. Not by a long shot.
The Mississippi GOP, Tater, (short) junior senator Roger Wicker and Phil Bryant support more and better paying jobs for all Mississippians. They commend Oxford House for their efforts. You lefty libs shoul lighten up!
Thanks to all for your comments! If you haven't weighed in, please do. I would never have known Oxford House exists without all of the indignation in the comments. I would likely have just skimmed over the blog post and moved on. Seeing all of your comments has given me a decent understanding of what I would face and the probability of my success should I choose to pursue an OH charter in a rental property. I am not sure where some of you got your information but I find it intriguing so I'll follow up to independently confirm. I hate that so many are so tormented by this issue. Given that OH has established thousands of half-way houses in hundreds of jurisdictions over several decades, resistance seems futile with the exception that venting your anger may help you cope. Good luck to each of you in your recovery from this despicable setback as I do not foresee this issue either abating or going away as a result of your objections.
You hate. That is your problem 9:51.
Thanks for the psychoanalysis 10:55! I would have to agree with your first point. Hypocrisy, arrogance, ignorance, obstinance, lack of objectivity, selfishness and injustice are all at the top of my list of things to hate. As for your second point, perhaps I'm in denial but I don't see the problem in hating any of those things.
3:37 - I do not give a CARE how many have benefited from OH, and I dare say the majority of Sherwood/Audubon residence could care less as well. Your personal problems - now you have made them our problems. Addictive behavior from top to bottom in OH business model - selfish, deceptive, and theft of a communities peace, security, and property values. The addicts calling card. You destroyed your credibility the minute you tried to come in under the radar with 7 adult males, all with major behavioral issues and a threat to our wives, children, and parents.
The emphasis needs to move to the Mississippi Department of Mental Health. They are the ones pushing Oxford House. In their most recent planning they consulted with Lori Holtzclaw, the regional outreach manager for Oxford House. They are lining up to ask the legislature for $1,800,000 in rental subsidies. This is 150 units for 24 months at $500 per month.
This is all public information on the MDH website. Make your statewide elected officials aware of how the subsidies are being used.
Technical Assistance Collaborative, Inc. out of Boston made the recommendations to MDH to pursue Oxford House in Mississippi.
http://www.tacinc.org/technical-assistance-consultation/recent-clients-projects/ms-dmh/
@4:40 Yes, I have many friends/family who are recovered and making a difference that live in NE Jackson, Ridgeland, Reunion, Bridgewater, CCJ, etc. They are living in single family homes and not affecting property values. Even those in recovery understand this. The issue is putting boarding houses in residential areas while slumlords, I mean owners, charge ridiculous rent and abstain from any responsibility. 78% jail time is a kinda scary stat. If my neighbor brought her son home from rehab, I would be baking banana bread, loving on him, and doing all I could to support him. These are out of state people and the whole situation reeks of money grubbing.
I think the MS Senate & HOR should require all members to read (& check-off) JJ daily.
Wow, could you imagine the possible changes?
Hate to break it to all of you, but there are already a plethora of registered sex offenders living within walking distance (3 mi.) of your beloved neighborhoods and schools (although being an Oxford House resident does not necessarily mean a history of sex crimes).
Do a quick geographic search (http://state.sor.dps.ms.gov/GeographicalSearch.aspx). Make flash cards. Have your children memorize their faces and names. And then, if/when you encounter them, run.
Parenting tip: teach your children to live in fear. Foster all sorts of anxiety in their hearts about the world and its cruelties. Perhaps, in their youth, to deal with the anxiety you've inflicted upon them, they will leave you, turn to alcohol and a myriad of drugs, and end up right back in your neighborhood at the Oxford House, where you can keep a watchful eye on them. It all works out!
OR reconcile your differences and learn to live with one another?
Also, did you know that a church meets in Jackson Academy on Sunday mornings and they let anyone come?! Oh the humanity!
Perhaps you beat your pets and abuse your spouse 10:59. Perhaps.
I do find it odd that everyone here is talking about the greed of the Stephens, but all I seem to be hearing in objection is loss of market value in homes. I'm not an English major but that seems ironic.
I suspect most of those posting these comments are good, church-going folk. (The term "God-fearing" appears myriad times.) I submit the following from the First Letter of John:
There is no fear in love, but perfect love drives out fear because fear has to do with punishment, and so one who fears is not yet perfect in love. 19We love because he first loved us. 20If anyone says, “I love God,” but hates his brother, he is a liar; for whoever does not love a brother whom he has seen cannot love God* whom he has not seen. 21This is the commandment we have from him: whoever loves God must also love his brother.
Nowhere in the Gospels did Jesus say anything about "Not in my backyard."
10:59 - I have already been on this site and was pleased to discover no sex offenders in our neighborhood (around 2230 E. Northside Dr) but I have since signed up for email notification for any that would be moving in...
The ones you have noted are mostly across I-55, but funny enough that the closest one to JA is located on Newland St.
@11:27. I'm a single, pet-less female that moved away from Jackson this past Fall because of the lack of progress, promise, and the general depression that plagues the city. Perhaps you're one of the many asses that prompted my move. Perhaps.
xoxo, 10:59
3:15 pm - There's a BIG difference in greed to the point of causing thousands of others harm vs. concern about being financially ruined by the falling value of your home. Not to mention a significant cause of the falling value is the threat to homeowners' and their children's safety.
@ 3:52-Amen!! So thankful that somebody else realized that Jesus preached against this very string of posts.
7:15 and 3:52 - Jesus tossed the money changers (Stephens et al appear to be the modern equivalent) - he appeared to have little patience with grifters which is the category Oxford House and those that participate in their cons and deceptions fall into. OH is nothing but a scam.
Your dog doesn't seem to hunt very well. Not from Mississippi?
You are an Oxford House poster I am willing to bet straight out of the city of Silver Springs, MD.
You are an Oxford House poster I am willing to bet straight out of the city of Silver Springs, MD.
YUP, close enough.
Wrong on so many levels. The worst of which is calling it a ministry. Note to the Stephens: ministries are non-profit. And the people involved, are,like, you know... involved with the people they are ministering.
@10:05. Nope! You are wrong. Raised in jackson, Ms since kindergarten and currently both work and live in Jackson/Madison. I have never had to use an Oxford House, thank the Lord....but I'm glad it is there for those who need it. TAKE HOME MESSAGE: Love our neighbor as Christ loves you. This world is fleeting (aka your property), but eternal life is forever.
The registered sex offender on Newland St. has been reported many times for living too close to Parham Bridges Park, The Briarwood Pool, JA and Spann Elementary. It is so sad that nothing has been done.
There is not a person living in the United States who has not been touched in some way by substance abuse or addiction. There is not one single person immune to addiction. Addiction does not discriminate. Addiction can be as simple as seeking treatment for pain after a surgery or cancer treatment and becoming addicted to pain killers. Addiction is a huge problem across all economic and social levels. You poor souls who think you are so much "better than thou" in your NE Jackson homes or your 39110 zip codes, with your private school-bred children and luxury SUV's, addiction can and will get you too. Do not speak and say no, when you do not know the future of yourself, your children or your spouse. Do not raise hands in judgment as you proclaim your Christianity yet you judge and smite those with addictions. These are people just like us who have made mistakes but have sought help and are in the midst of treatment. Check your own homes. It is the wealthiest who tend to fall prey to addiction more than the poor, however you of the wealthy class can afford the "good" stuff, the cocaine versus the crack, the painkillers versus the heroin, the Ritalin versus the meth.
Where are the Christians? "I'll help people as long as it is comfortable", "I can be a good Christian if it doesn't affect my real estate values".
I live in Madison. Bring the recovering alcoholics and addicts to me.
For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came to me.’ Then the righteous will answer him, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you drink? And when did we see you a stranger and welcome you, or naked and clothe you? And when did we see you sick or in prison and visit you?’... Matthew 25:35-40
Screw any of you for attacking Anna's job. She's the most influential and hardworking woman at JA. She's an amazing woman who works so hard to make sure that the girl athletes of JA are strong and prosperous. She's more than a coach. Shame on any of you that attacked her job.
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