Cocaine anonymous to convene in Vegas

AMERICAS – Where else in the world but Las Vegas would you expect to see a conference on cocaine use? The 31st Annual Cocaine Anonymous World Service is scheduled in Nevada for a ‘dry convention’, 21-25 May. “We believe that many people outside of Cocaine Anonymous are very concerned about the serious problem of drug addiction,” a news release inviting media coverage states. Although the stated aim of the World Service Convention is “to promote enthusiasm and unity within the fellowship of Cocaine Anonymous and financially support World Service’s efforts to carry the message to the addict who still suffer”, the organisation doesn’t seem too bothered about putting its delegates in the way of developing a gambling addiction. It’s website advises, in a chairperson’s message to delegates, in part: “There are currently four new colours of commemorative poker chips available to go along with the commemorative playing cards you already have. The first batch of poker chips sold out FAST. Don’t wait until you get to the convention, order yours now…” CA was founded in Los Angeles in 1982 and estimates its membership at 30,000. Do you have news for CMW? Email: Paul Colston