SPOTLIGHT ON ADDICTION

Galas often feature inspiring testimonials from beneficiaries right
before guests are asked to open their checkbooks. When a fund-raiser
benefits a drug rehabilitation program, dinner sometimes resembles an
Alcoholics Anonymous meeting.

Speakers at Caron Treatment Centers' annual gala Wednesday introduced
themselves thus: "Hi, I'm so-and-so, and I'm an alcoholic." Cue crowd:
"Hi, so-and-so."

The gala at Cipriani 42nd Street raised funds for scholarships to
Caron with a special focus on supporting musicians with addiction.

"A lot of musicians are alcoholics and addicts," said Dr. John, a
musician who performed and was honored at the event. "I'm one," he
said, showing off a 20-year sobriety medallion hanging from one of
several chunky necklaces. Wearing a hat with colored feathers and
sunglasses too dark to see his eyes, Dr. John said he has seen
thousands of others struggle. "We don't mention names," he said.

Attendees underscored the importance of making addiction treatment
more acceptable, especially among musicians.

"People know sex, drugs and rock 'n' roll," said Paul Hokemeyer, an
addiction therapist, "But sex, drugs and recovery?" He quickly
realized his error. "Wait, reverse that-not drugs. It's sex, recovery
and rock 'n' roll we're not familiar with."

- - Jen Wieczner