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Richie Sambora Takes Anti-Drug Message To Toms River Event

TOMS RIVER, N.J. (CBSNewYork/AP) -- Longtime Bon Jovi guitarist Richie Sambora debuted a new song Tuesday night at a New Jersey forum on drug abuse.

Sambora, 54, debuted the song "Lighthouse," which focused on the growing heroin epidemic in New Jersey, according to published reports.

He appeared at an event in Toms River, aimed at raising awareness about abuse of heroin and prescription painkillers along the Jersey shore.

The area, like many across the country, has seen a surge in addictions and related fatalities.

Sambora grew up in Perth Amboy and once owned a home near the shore. He has acknowledged substance abuse problems in the past.

"Obviously, the music business has its pitfalls, and I was lucky enough to survive and be alive," Sambora said at a news conference.

Sambora is currently on leave from the band.

He appeared alongside Ocean County Prosecutor Joseph Coronato at the event at the Pine Belt Arena.

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