Aug 27, 2014 – Day 1 Daily Summary – WSBT Opening Report

OPENING REPORT C.A. WORLD SERVICE CONFERENCE 2014

WORLD SERVICE BOARD OF TRUSTEES REPORT

INTRODUCTION AND OPENING COMMENTS:

Your WSBT have worked diligently throughout the year within what our World Service Manual clarifies as ‘the broadest scope of any branch of our service structure’. Our WSM goes on to state that it

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is the responsibility of the WSBT is to help deal with anything that affects C.A. as a whole, either internally or externally. All things that may endanger the existence of our Fellowship or limit are growth is of concern to the WSBT.

As principle financial planners for the fellowship we have continued to review revenue/expenditure and discussed options for remaining within the fellowships budgetary parameters.

Last years rotation within the WSOB, and the election of a new WSOB Chair, has allowed for the relationship between the WSBT and WSOB to be the most effective and harmonious I’ve seen it during the 4 years I’ve served as a trustee and, from my observations as a former delegate, probably several years prior to that.

Our ‘2 Board’ structure delivers an ongoing challenge as scope of authority and the boundaries of each board, whilst clear most of the time, has a wonderful ability to be fuzzy and at times even invisible. We would like to take this opportunity to recognize and thank the WSOB for their hard work and commitment over the past 12 months.

With various projects and discussions ongoing, many falling under ‘Finance’, ‘International Structure and Development’ and ‘Long Term Planning’ to name but a few, your WSBT continue to explore avenues and opportunities to support and assist in our fellowships effectiveness regarding our principle spiritual aim…to carry the C.A. message to the addict that still suffers around the world.

This year the WSBT participated in the following activities and business:

• Regular quarterly WSBT meetings
• Regular Board to Board meetings and/or meetings with individual members of the WSOB
• Elected and supported the new WSOB Treasurer
• Ratified new WSOB DAL positions
• Conducted a internal financial workshop
• Submitted a draft ‘Conflict of Interest’ policy for WSOB consideration
• Approved various new translated pieces
• Participated in CAWS2014 in Long Beach
• Addressed copyright issues around the world
• Addressed various legal issues with regards CAWS Inc and CAWSO Inc
• Reviewed and addressed the challenges regarding the publication of ‘A Quiet Peace’, our new meditation book.
• Submitted articles for publication in NewsGram
• Reviewed and approved each quarterly edition of NewsGram
• Supported ongoing Regional Trustee travel and remained within and in most cases under budget for Trustee travel.
• Addressed email correspondence, crafting responses and responded accordingly
• Addressed all referrals submitted
• Regular participation in various conference committee activities including reviewing and signing off new guidelines

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• Reviewed and negotiated various contracts on behalf of C.A. including but not exclusively upcoming CAWS Conventions and the new Conference Hotel.
• Preparing minutes from WSBT meetings and calls for inclusion in delegate mailings throughout the year.
• Arranged a meeting between the WSBT and a former non-addict trustee.

If I can take this opportunity to introduce your current WSBT:

• Ira L – World Service Trustee
• Kathy Jo R – World Service Office Trustee
• Brian T – Mid West Regional Trustee
• Terry M – Pacific North Regional Trustee
• Duane M – Pacific South Regional Trustee
• Jay P – South West Regional Trustee
• Yves W – Atlantic North Regional Trustee / WSBT Assistant Secretary
• Rob W – Trustee at Large / WSBT Secretary
• Kenny W – Atlantic South Regional Trustee/WSBT Vice Chair
• Russell S – European Regional Trustee/WSBT Chair

We will now hear the individual ‘at conference’ reports from WSBT members,

World Service Trustee – At Conference Report – August 2014

Respectfully submitted by Ira m. L

WSBT Service/activities/committees/duties

As the World Service Trustee I am blessed and honored to be able to sit on two Boards. I sit on the World Service Office Board and fully participate in all Quarterly,monthly conference calls, and all on-line business. I am also the Trustees representative on the World Service Office Board and am an active member weighing in the WSO business of Cocaine Anonymous at what has been twice monthly meetings and all on-line activity. This reality allows the WST to be in a unique position to obtain a big picture perspective of no other member of C.A.

WSBT Sub-Committees:

The WST is the automatic Lead Negotiator for the Trustee Negotiating Committee as the geographic requirements lend themselves to being available for WSOB participation, the annual World Service Conference, in addition to all the other contracts that may pass through the WSO or come to their

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attention of the WSBT. With the needed experienced assistance of the Trustee Negotiating Committee all contracts over $500 are reviewed, revised if necessary, and hopefully approved and signed.

WSC Committee responsibilities:

This WST is the lead Trustee on the WSC Public Information Committee. I am also the 2^nd Trustee on the WSC Conference Committee.

Comments:

I have discovered how little I knew about the fellowship that saved my life and have thankfully learned a great deal the last year. I have come to the conclusion that God has put a bump on the bottom of my proverbial driveway and in the highway of my life, in order to get my attention and have me slow down. I am the kind of addict that used to love speed -reading, fast food, instant oatmeal, quarter-horses, sprint racing, the hundred-yard dash and the like. Ever since I got sober, though, I believe God has been trying to send me a message to slow down and `I glad to say I am finally beginning to listen. Finally, I am sad that some on the Board are not coming back, for `I will miss their “pausing” and their enormous capacity to show love, tolerance and guidance. I am very happy to say that they will always be in my heart and on speed dial.`I wish them only the very best.

Thank you for letting me be of service.

Sincerely,

Ira M. L, World Service Trustee

World Service Office Trustee – At Conference Report – August 2014

Respectfully submitted by Kathy Jo R

WSBT Service/activities/committees/duties

• Attend WSBT meetings & conference calls and participate in on-line business
• Communicate information between WSOB and WSBT
• Bring forth motions on behalf of WSOB for WSBT review/approval
• Review/approve quarterly NewsGrams; wrote a NewsGram article
• Review/approve CAWSO financial statements for submission to WSBT
• Worked with WSOB and WSBT to implement a European Fulfillment Center
• Worked with WSOB, WSBT and LCF to publish “A Quiet Peace”
• Supported and attended the 2014 World Service Convention in Long Beach
• Participated in all Trustee Quarterly meetings, conference calls and online business
• Participated in WSC Unity on-line business

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• Participated in WSC LCF on-line business and conference calls
• Participated in the WSC Convention Committee on-line business and conference calls

WSBT Sub-Committees:

• Finance
• International Structure & Development
• Long Term Planning

WSC Committee responsibilities:

• Unity (Lead Trustee)
• Literature, Chips and Format (Second Trustee)
• Convention Committee (WSOB Liaison)

WSOB

• Attend WSOB meetings
• Participate in board on-line business
• Participated in WSC Convention Committee Conference Calls

Comments:

It has been my privilege to serve as your World Service Office Trustee during the past two years. As the WSOT, I am a member of both the Board of Trustees and the World Service Office Board of Directors. Since my primary role is to help facilitate communications between these 2 boards, I spend the majority of my C.A. service time either in a business meeting or prepping communications about a business meeting.

During my term of service I have served as the lead trustee on the Unity Committee. This group has been committed to making sure there are Unity events at both the World Service Convention and here at our World Service Conference. This committee and their chair are continually looking for ways to bring Unity to our fellowship – I look forward to spending time with them during this conference. I have also served as the 2nd Trustee on the LCF committee. During these past 2 years I have had a front-seat view of their hard work and diligence in facilitating our new publication, A Quiet Peace. Thank you, LCF, from the bottom of my heart, for bringing this amazing meditation book to our fellowship.

In addition to my trustee duties, I am the WSOB liaison to the WSC Convention Committee. I am excited to see how many international submissions we have bidding on the 2018 convention during this

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year’s Conference. I am hopeful each of these groups will be able to take away something from the success of our 2014 Annual Convention. In addition to this committee’s successful fund-raising efforts

on behalf of C.A. World Services, their efforts to bring in newcomers and encourage more diverse participation were commendable. On a personal note, I want to applaud my fellow Pacific South Region service junkies for seeing this through – many of us go back to the site selection days and to see the 2014 World Service Convention come to fruition brought much joy to my heart.

Speaking of which, I wish you all joy in your journeys. Thank you for the privilege to be of service and to help C.A. to continue to carry its message. I look forward to continuing my service journey and have no doubt I will see many of you as we keep trudging this path.

Mid-West Regional Trustee – At Conference Report – August 2014

Respectfully submitted by Brian T

WSBT Service/activities/committees/duties

• Participated on all Trustee conference calls
• Participated on all online email correspondence/Yahoo group o Participated at all WSBT Quarterly Meetings
• Participated in all Board to Board Meetings o Participated in all WSBT Conference calls
• Participated in most Conference. Convention and H&I Committee conference calls o Participate on the MidWest Regional online email correspondence/Yahoo group
• Address any correspondence regarding the region that is received by the World Service Office.
• Respond to emails and phone messages.
• Assist the board in responses to the fellowship o 2013 – 2014 Area visits
  • Wisconsin Area Convention
  • Illinois Area Convention – “One Day Affair”
  • Tri-State Convention – Lansing, Mi. (Indiana, Michigan, Ohio)
  • Greater Missouri Area Convention
• Attended CAWS 2014 Convention in Long Beach, California o Participated in all CAWS2016 Steering Committee Meetings
• Attended first CAWS2016 fundraiser by the Razor’s Edge group in Wisconsin o Came in under budget for MWR Trustee expenses for 2013-2014 year
• Attended the MidWest Regional Convention / Assembly in Columbus, Ohio o Attended local area Unity and Special Events
• Serving as TEC Chairperson for this year’s Trustee Elections

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WSBT Sub-Committee:

• Finance
• Orientation
• Long Term Planning
• International Structure & Development
• Trustee Outreach
• World Service Conference(Lead)

WSC Committee responsibilities:

• Finance Committee(2^nd)
• Convention Committee(2^nd)
• Conference Committee
• H&I Committee (Lead)

Comments:

And the journey continues…three down and one to go. I have to say that the path so far has been most rewarding. I have been blessed to be in a region that has great people and a lot of continuity. The MidWest Region has made the ride so far smooooth!

I have a continued sense of respect and gratitude for those that came before me and am honored by the privilege to serve this fellowship in any way, especially in the manner you all have allowed me to, as the MWR Trustee.

While there have been some spurts of growth, some newcomer kits sent to new places, the overall meetings in the region seem to be currently stagnating. This is a concern and additional arenas of public information and H&I need to be explored by the current areas for the sake of our future. On a positive note, C.A. in Minnesota has returned. There are now currently four meetings in the state, two in Minneapolis and two in Redwing, by the Wisconsin border. Thanks go out to Oral S and Jeri M for their service in starting these meetings.

The 2013 MidWest Regional Convention and Assembly was held in Columbus, Ohio and it was a great event for me and the folks from our region. The Columbus District did a great job of hosting and I look forward to this year’s convention a little closer to home, just outside Chicago in Bloomingdale, Illinois.

I was able to attend three of the regions Area conventions throughout the year – Wisconsin, Illinois and the Greater Missouri Area. I also attended the Tri-State Convention (Indiana, Michigan, and Ohio) which was held this year in Lansing, Michigan. Always keeping in mind our budgets and the fellowship’s expenses, I hope to get to as many areas in my region as possible.

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The World Convention in Long Beach rocked! It was an awesome display of the diversity and power of this fellowship. I look forward to Las Vegas this coming year and some good ol’ fashion home cooking in Chicago in 2016!

Pacific North Regional Trustee at Conference Report, August 2014

Respectfully submitted by Terry M., PNRT

WSBT Service/activities/committees/duties

Pacific North Regional Trustee

Participated on all conference call
Participated at all Quarterly meetings
Participated on all online email correspondence/Yahoo group
Participate on the Pacific North Regional online email correspondence/Yahoo group
Addressed correspondence regarding the Region that is received by the World Service Office Respond to emails and phone messages.
Assist the board in responses to the fellowship
Attended the PNRC regional Convention/Assembly (April 2014)

2013-2014Area visits
Recovery in the Rockies (Utah)
Washington Area Convention
2017 CAWS Steering Committee meeting
PNRC San Francisco California
Attended the CAWS 2014 Convention in Long Beach

WSBT Sub-Committees:

Newsgram
Long Term Planning
TEC

WSC Committee responsibilities:

Unity
H&I Committee

Overview:

I humbly stand before you a blessed man. To be of service to the fellowship that saved my life.

22 years ago all I wanted was to slow down and socially distribute narcotics.

There was a feeling of hope that I felt when I shuffled into that first meeting. I got involved and been involved since.

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I came to the WSC in the year 2000 and served as a delegate, Committee chair and 2008 World convention Chair and the past 4 years as the PNR Trustee

Thank you the PNR and the WSC for having more confidence in me than I had for myself

I come from the Utah area and they have a lot of young energy filled with great Ideas

I have come to realize that I was the one slowing the growth. Holding on to the old ideas, trying to protect what was not really mine. Yes I put in the WORK that was needed at the time and kept the lights on with a bunch of soldiers. The new people have what it takes to keep this fellowship alive and personally I am going to let them have fun. I am going to sit back and drink my coffee and the occasionally cigar and encourage them in all their endeavors.

I am leaving this weekend holding my head high as I have done the best I could do.

My time here at the conference has been filled with highs and lows. I believe in the Spirit of Rotation.

Last year, at the conference being the WSBT chair I showed an example of stepping aside and allowing someone else to experience what is was like. I sat with the WSBT this year acting as an elder statesman offering my feedback and advice but stepping away from the reins.

To the remaining WSBT members not rotating off this year I hope through what Russell, Kenny, KJ and I have shown you that you each have a voice.

I need to say I was reminded just a couple days ago of why I do what I do. A couple delegates from South Africa sat with us talking about their struggles and how grateful when they reached out and C.A. reached back.

I can never payback

Respectfully submitted –

Terry M

PNRT

Pacific South Regional Trustee – At Conference Report – August 2014

Respectfully submitted by Duane M

WSBT Service/activities/committees/duties

• Participated on all Trustee conference calls
• Participated on all online email correspondence/Yahoo group
• Participate on the Pacific South Regional online email correspondence/Yahoo group

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• Address any correspondence regarding the region that is received by the World Service Office. o Responded to emails and phone messages.
• Assist the board in responses to the fellowship
• Attended the 2014 CALA Convention Indian Wells, CA
  • 2013 – 2014 Area visits
  • CALA Convention
  • WIECA Area Business Mtg
  • OCCA annual Chili Cook Off
• Participated at all Quarterly Trustee meetings, and on Conference calls.
• Participated at all Board to Board meetings
• Attended the CAWS 2014 Convention in Long Beach, CA o Steering Committee CAWS 2014
• Attended and participated in steering and general committee meetings o Was under budget for PSR Trustee expenses

WSBT Sub-Committees:

• Convention Committee
• Legal
• Trustee Election Committee

WSC Committee responsibilities:

Convention Committee

TEC

Trustee Oversight CAWS 2014

Comments:

First, I thank God, for allowing to me to have my experiences and live to talk about them.

I thank my area, region and the TEC for allowing me the honor and privilege to serve you as you Pacific South Regional Trustee. This second year also known as the terrible twos, sophomore jinx et al has been a learning and growing experience. CAWS 2014 we showed the world that once again “California Knows How to Party”. Great event, great fellowship and a great fund raiser for our Fellowship. Big thanks goes out to the Chair ,Mr David B. and the amazing team that put on that great event. Your CAWS 2014 committee worked tirelessly to support the fellowship we all love. Please, if you hear nothing else in this report, hear this; your fellowship needs you. Your fellowship, the one you love needs you to serve. We need your friends and associates who are not here to serve. To my region, the great Pacific South, check out the office.

We have the unique honor of having the WSO in our region. C.A. started here, let’s show the world that appreciate that honor by serving the office

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The World Service Office is the central point for information distribution to the planet. The world of Cocaine Anonymous is waiting on you to step up and serve. Cocaine Anonymous is larger than what I can see. Let us venture out of those smaller areas of concern that may have become comfortable. The world of Cocaine Anonymous needs your skill sets, abilities and talents. I am proof that one who came to scoff can remain to pray and serve.

My second year serving has one of growth and continuing education. The days are long, reports are many and my gratitude is endless.

Thank you for allowing me to grow and serve.

SouthW Regional Trustee – At conference Report – August 2014

Respectfully submitted by Jay P

WSBT Service/activities/committees/duties

SouthW Regional Trustee

• Participated on all Trustee conference calls
• Participated on all online email correspondence/Yahoo group
• Participate on the SouthWest Regional online email correspondence/Yahoo group
• Address any correspondence regarding the region that is received by the World Service Office.
• Respond to emails and phone messages.
• Assist the board in responses to the fellowship
• Attended the SWR Regional Convention/Assembly (October 2013)
• 2013 – 2014 Area visits
  • Arizona Area Convention
  • Houston SWR convention
  • North Texas Area meeting
  • Kansas workshop and fund raiser
• Participated at all Quarterly meetings, and on Conference calls.
• Attended and served the CAWS 2014 Convention in Los Angeles

WSBT Sub-Committees

• Finance ( with the Finance Trustee Kathy Jo)
• Trustee Negotiation Committee
• Long Term Planning
• TEC ( second)
• H&I ( second)

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• WSC Committee responsibilities:
• Finance Committee

Overview:

I am surely the luckiest Trustee on the WSBT. I have the privilege of serving the SouthWest. The SouthWest Area continues to grow and inspire. Here are a few examples.

The North Texas Area (Dallas and Ft Worth) which has not been a part of the World Service or Regional service structure in quite some time is here at this year’s conference. They will also be at the SouthWest Regional Convention and Assembly. It’s truly the effort of a small group of people who put forth the effort to unite their area and the start the process of re-entering the World Service Structure. Like many areas there are different personalities, philosophies and history within the area. How often and how long do these things linger within any given area? I have seen a generation of sobriety within an area come and try to unite their area and put aside personalities and focus on the principles The old guard stands aside and allows them to have their experience and developed their fellowship, that is what Cocaine Anonymous is about That is where the spirit of fellowship and helping the addict resides. It resides in the constant and relinquishing power and influence. Letting go.Letting go and then letting go some more. Allow all of our members to have a voice, to be wrong and to fix the same things that have been fixed countless times before.

The Texas Valley is a small area. The geographic area is in the southern part of Texas and borders Mexico. It covers a vast amount of remote area. Many smaller towns and cities make up this Area. It was created and operated in McAllen Texas. With no functioning area structure, they continue to carry the message of C.A. when it would be so much easier to just simply join another fellowship. I am always inspired by their quite commitment to our message.

There are a couple of new groups that are in that area that needs the support and help of a functional area. They are equally distance from McAllen and the SCTA, They have requested to join the neighboring area, South Central Texas Area.

Let me tell you what happened,

So often emotions rise when such requests are made. Members often get defensive, territorial and fearful. But when the meetings made the request the representatives from each area talked to each other. They talked to each other. They talked about why such a move might be made and how it affects each area as well as the meetings. At the SCTA area meeting somebody brought up the possibility of reuniting the Areas. That maybe we are better together than as separate areas. The idea was taken to the Valley. They discussed the pros and cons. Nobody carried a sense of entitlement or an agenda to the conversation. Valley stated that they would like to stay an area at this time but would like some help.

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The SCTA has agreed to help with the website and with getting a meeting list online. The point is, that it was handled with a lot of love and care. I think there are lessons to be learn. I for one have surely learn. I love my Region

This year has been intense. There has been a lot of work completed

I have seen the World Service Office worked extremely hard on the day to day operations. They have paid very close attentions to the finances of our fellowship. I have witness the office streamline processes and cut cost where they could.

The LCF and the Office has worked under a lot of stress of getting the new publication to you in time for conference. We owe them all a great deal of appreciation.

In closing – We have a lot of work to do. We have a capable fellowship. We have a message that is available to all. We have the willingness to allow our members young and old to have a voice here.

Let’s continue to nurture the first Tradition, C.A. unity.

ILAS

Jay P

SWRT

Atlantic North Regional Trustee – at Conference Report – August 2014

Respectfully submitted by Yves W

WSBT Service/activities/committees/duties

Atlantic North Regional Trustee

• Participated on all Trustee conference calls
• Participated on all online email correspondence/Yahoo group o Participated at all WSBT Quarterly Meetings
• Participated in all Board to Board Meetings
• Participated in all WSBT Conference calls
• Participate on the Atlantic North Regional online email correspondence/Yahoo group
• Address any correspondence regarding the region that is received by the World Service Office.
• Worked with WSOB Translation Committee o Served as WSBT Assistant Secretary
• Respond to emails and phone messages.
• Assist the board in responses to the fellowship

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• 2013 – 2014 Area visits
  • Southern Ontario Cocaine Anonymous (SOCA) 17th Annual Convention
  • New York (CANY) Area Retreat weekend and regional assembly
  • Quebec Area Convention
  • SOCA area meeting
• Attended CAWS 2014 Convention in Long Beach, California

WSBT Sub-Committees:

• Trustee Outreach
• International Structure & Development
• Long Term Planning

WSC Committee responsibilities:

• Structure & Bylaws Committee
• Information Technology Committee

Overview:

This is my 2^nd year as the Atlantic North Regional trustee. As with my recovery, I have learned more everyday about C.A. and myself through my service work as a trustee and communicating with our members throughout our region. I am a proud and grateful member of C.A.

I am honored and humbled to be of service with such an inspiring group of colleagues, and although I am sadden with the departure of 4 of our board members, I am looking forward to meet and work with our new members at the end of the conference.

I visited two areas, as previously listed in this report, plus my own. Unfortunately, I planned to visit our Massachusetts and Eastern Pennsylvania/New Jersey/Delaware Area, but I couldn’t make it. It will be my priority for this year.

The Atlantic North region, through the Quebec area did put forward a bid for CAWS 2018. Translation in French for our Meditation book has started through the Quebec area translation sub-committee.

Overall growth in our region slowed a little this year, regarding new groups, but the membership is still growing in the different areas.

I am overwhelmed with our overall growth, in the rest of the world.

I’d like to thank you for the opportunity to serve Cocaine Anonymous as one of your Trustees, it is truly an honor.

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Trustee at Large – At Conference Report – August 2014

Respectfully submitted by Rob W

WSBT Service/activities/committees/duties

Trustee at Large

• 2013 – 2014 Visits
  • Florida Area Convention Fort Myers
  • South W Regional Houston TX
  • South Africa Convention Johannesburg
  • Pacific North Regional Convention San Francisco
  • Colorado Area Convention CoCaCo
  • CAWS 14 Long Beach

• Participated on all Trustee conference calls
• Participated on all online email correspondence/Yahoo group
• Participated at all WSBT Quarterly Meetings
• Participated in all Board to Board Meetings
• Participated on most LCF Conference calls
• Participate on the South W Regional Yahoo group
• Participated at the National Association of Drug Court Professionals
• Participated on some S&B calls
• Served as WSBT Secretary
• Respond to emails and phone messages.
• Assisted in responses to the fellowship

WSBT Sub-Committees:

• Long Term Planning

WSC Committee responsibilities:

• Literature, Chips and Formats Committee
• CAWS 15
• Structure & Bylaws Committee

Overview:

It’s been a pleasure serving the fellowship of Cocaine Anonymous this year, many exciting things have

happened. Let me start with the CAWS 15 convention, we have assembled an amazing group of people to throw party in Las Vegas. We have a very small fellowship there but if it’s anything like the Fort Lauderdale area, after their world convention Vegas will have a much stronger fellowship when

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we get done. We have chosen Harrah’s Hotel right in the middle of the strip. The convention meeting rooms and pool area will make this large hotel seem very intimate for our group size. Please bring registration forms back to your areas and help support the largest fundraiser C.A. does each year.

I attended South African convention in Johannesburg with three other people from their outside world. Russell (he has a big region) comes in with this oversized bag of C.A. Literature chips and a variety of things that they have never seen. As he starts unpacking this bag their eyes are like deer in headlights. He pulls out this tube and within that tube are the 12 traditions and twelve-step’s of our fellowship, immediately were asked to hang them on the board so we could have a meeting. With a tear in her eye she tells us that it will be the first time she’s ever been in a meeting with her step’s and her traditions on the wall.

Going to Johannesburg taught me many things I didn’t realize. In some places the cost-of-living is at such a different rate that they cannot afford any of our literature or chips. I’ve taken for granted so many things. We talk about growth of the worldwide fellowship, We have to look at our costs in countries and relationship to their standard of living and allow those countries to be able to purchase C.A. Materials at a rate that they can afford. I also believe but there’s areas of the United States and Canada that might not have the ability to pay full price.

I’d like to thank you for the opportunity to serve Cocaine Anonymous as one of your Trustees, it is truly an honor. I am grateful and proud to be a member of C.A.

Atlantic South Regional Trustee – at Conference Report – August 2014

Respectfully submitted by Kenny W

“Over the past four years, I have turned me into a monster. My sharpened analytical skills can determine you’re your solution before you speak. My mild mannered responses have been replaced by boisterous know it all outburst and eruptions. I become slow to listen. When in conversation, I’m responding silently with bad-mannered comments and a poker face. My favorite words have become “I understand” when actually I have no Idea of what you are talking about. It is amazing that the infamous “Trustee’s” smile and head nod works great with law enforcement officials, significant others, and even total strangers. I really appreciate you for the life skills I could not have acquired anywhere else.”

Thank God for blessing me with the opportunity such an awesome fellowship. Thanks you members of prior conferences, committees, and former trustees. Thanks to the current conference members for all your love, service, and devotion. Thank you delegates for the work you do in your respective districts and areas. From year to year, the World Service Office and the World Service Office Board perform with all the attention and dedication that is expected, but seldom are they recognized or noticed. Let give them a hand! Thank you fellow Trustees for the love, patience, allegiance, and attentiveness you have shown. It is an honor and a high privilege to know, serve and grind with you.

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I have participated in all online business and quarterly meetings. I served as WSBT Vice-Chairman. I served on the World Service Information Technology Conference Committee (Lead Trustee), Trustee Election Committee. I served on the Legal, Trustee Orientation (Chairman), and Long Term Planning

Subcommittees of the World Service Board of Trustees (WSBT). I corresponded via phone calls, conference calls, Skype, Yahoo groups, emails, and in person with the WSO, Delegates, members, groups, areas, and fellow trustees in an effort to aid our primary purpose to carry the message.

I attended and participated in all WSBT quarterly meetings. I attended The Tennessee Area Convention in Memphis “Walking by Faith – Living in Grace” March 28-30, 2014. I must say… It was awesome to experience to visit South Carolina and watch them host their first regional convention “The Bridge over Troubled Water” April 11-13, 2014.

This fourth and final year has been very peculiar. I stand here emotionally, mentally, and spiritually suspended. My Trustee commitment has been all but fulfilled. It is time to move on. The “Spirit of Rotation” is in effect. This does not mean for me to rotate into another World Service position. It means that my obligation has been fulfilled and my term of service has ended. It means that my area and home group still have my seat waiting on me. It means that a newcomer will walk through the door in need of me for Hope, Faith, and Courage.

My Hope and prayer is that Cocaine Anonymous be in a much better place because of you and your service.

Again, Thanks for growth in being a trusted servant for such a magnificent fellowship.

Russell S – European Regional Trustee & WSBT Chair

At Conference Report 2014

Activity:

Over the past 12 months I have attended and participated in the following activities

• All WSBT Quarterly Meetings,
• All B2B Meetings
• All WSBT Conference Calls
• CAWS2014 in Long Beach
• CA Sweden ASC and Unity Day
• CA Sweden Area Convention
• CA South Africa Area Convention
• CA South Africa ASC
• CAUK Area Assembly.
• CAUK Area Convention

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• CA Holland Area Convention
• CA Switzerland ASC
• CA Spain ASC
• European Regional Assembly at CAUK Convention
• CA Scotlandand ASC and Unity Day
• CAUK Central District DSC
• CAUK South Central District DSC
• CAUK Central District Unity Day
• CAWS Archive Committee online business.
• CAWS Archive Conference call.
• I participate with on-line WSBT business dealing with referrals and other activities.
• As WSBT Chair I have facilitated business at quarterlies, calls and online.
• I serve as a member of the WSBT TNC, reviewing and assisting with negotiations of all contracts above $500 between C.A. and outside service providers and vendors.
• I assist and support Areas within ER with the translation process and work closely with CAWSO in the process.
• I assist CAWSO with initial contact when requests are received from interested parties within the ER.
• I assist CAWSO with starter kit enquiries from members in the ER.
• I communicate on a regular basis with various members of ASC’s from areas with the European Region and also with the many loner groups within the region.
• I have continued to assist WSOB with plans for European Fulfillment services
• Other stuff…

WSBT Sub-Committees:

• I serve and engage on the Trustee Negotiating Committee, NewsGram review, Long Term Planning Committee and I am the lead on International Structure and Development.
• I Serve on the Trustee Election Committee

WSC Committee responsibilities:

• I serve and assist the WSC Archive Committee,

Comments:

As I move into my last few days as your European Regional Trustee and current Chair of the WSBT I’ve had the opportunity to reflect not just the last 12 months but the last 4 years of service on the Board. I’ve heard many trustees, both past and present, share how they believe that Cocaine Anonymous is in a better position now that when they started, I don’t believe it’s my place to make such a statement but what I will freely admit to you is that I’m amazed I didn’t blow anything up or start a revolution. This service position has dragged me, kicking and screaming at times, nearer to God and I’d like to thank you for that.

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Without wanting to disregard or compare the efforts and attitudes of our fellowships activities in North America I’ve been blessed to be part of a Region that is growing at a phenomenal rate. It has warmed me over the years to stand at this podium at look out at the ever increasing numbers of delegates from within the European Region. When I first attended conference serving as a rookie delegate for CAUK the region was represented by a small sprinkling of delegates and interested volunteers, so to see the increase of participation from our fellowships new region is without doubt one of the highlights of my experience at this Ll. With both C.A. Spain and C.A. South Africa sending delegates for the first time this year I’m confident that the growth, and desire to belong, will continue around the world for the foreseeable future. I am a very proud of European fellowship and what they bring to the table. I would suggest you take some time out and speak to delegates from the ER, with such healthy growth within the region I would ask you consider the possibility that the pupils have become the teachers.

You, our fellowship, have played a huge part in supporting and encouraging the growth. Your 7^th tradition donations have helped with ongoing translations, printing and servicing our foreign speaking groups. To have trusted the UK to host CAWS2012 was another example of the support and encouragement you’ve provided, so to see 3 international bids for CAWS2018…2 from Europe is amazing.

The planning of a CAWSO presence in Europe is so close I feel I can almost touch it. With so much research and effort put into this project the groups in Europe can be assured that their needs with regards affordable C.A. literature will very soon be met.

The service efforts in the arena of translations is incredible, with the Dutch and Swedish fellowship storming forward with such a weighty workload. The meditation book is already translated into Swedish. A draft copy of HFCII in German has been handed in and simply holding this aloft as an example surely demonstrates the growth of C.A. that we all desire.

I stepped up and promised to serve you as best I could, I can only assure you I’ve given it my all. Within the direction, content and principles of steps 10, 11 & 12 I’m asked to continue, practice, improve, try…I’ve done so.

My life has changed massively over the past 4 years and I need to thank my partner Maria and our 3 beautiful children, Maddy, Grace and Jack who have allowed me the opportunity to serve you at their expense. The big book states that a better demonstration of these principles is in our home life and it’s my intention to return my focus on my young and beautiful family.

I look forward to continuing amongst you as a member of Cocaine Anonymous, attending meetings, reaching out to addicts and not having to write any more reports for a while. In the meantime…let’s get through this conference, I’ve no intention taking my foot off the gas or handing over the gavel till close of conference.

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There’s not much more to say at this time but thank you…I’m tired.

ILAS

Russell S

European Regional Trustee & WSBT Chair

CORRESPONDENCE/ RESPONSES FROM/TO THE FELLOWSHIP:

MESSAGE: Gay and lesbian pamphlets: what does that have to do with our primary purpose?

ANSWER:

Dear member,

Again thank you for your email, and here is our response:

Per Concept 1 The final responsibility and the ultimate authority for C.A. world services should always reside in the collective conscience of our whole Fellowship.

Per Concept 2 The C.A. Groups delegate to the World Service Conference the complete authority for the active maintenance of our world services and thereby make the Conference — excepting for any change in the Twelve Traditions — the actual voice and the effective conscience for our whole Fellowship.

The pamphlets published by our fellowship have all been through a conference approved process that allowed for the fellowship’s review, debate and ultimately a decision of approval.

Our Fifth Tradition speaks to inclusivity and our group conscience that was voiced at the conference that gave final approval of that pamphlet affirmed including the people described therein. The WSBT supports the group conscience of our fellowship and those actions represented through conference approval.

In love and service

CA World Service Board of Trustees

MESSAGE: HOPE FAITH & COURAGE FROM A MEMBER OF COCAINE ANONYMOUS SCOTLAND

Dear WSO & WSBT, I am reaching out as a member of CA who has deep heartfelt concerns about the future of this fellowship called Cocaine Anonymous. I worry that some of the actions in my Area (Scotland) threaten to affect CA as a whole and also violate the letter and spirit of several of the CA 12

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Traditions. I would appreciate it greatly if the WSBT could look at these issues on its quarterly agenda or through the process where members of the Fellowship write to the WSBT with concerns and the WSBT responds in writing back to them. Here are my concerns:

“Keeping COCAINE in Cocaine Anonymous”

Firstly, I would like to express my gratitude to all the people who are currently serving, and who have served over the last 30 + years all around the world. I, for one, know how hard and troublesome it can be serving in CA.

I have not had the experience or privilege of serving at the world level, but I am truly grateful to those who do have the opportunity of serving us. I have communicated as best as I can from afar over the years, and I have been fortunate enough to have members from all over the world, some of whom either are or have been trustees, to visit Glasgow.

I think the best thing for me to do, is to share briefly my own experience about why I got involved in Cocaine Anonymous. It is a topic that I don’t like to discuss openly, but that I feel is very important in this instance.

“My own experience getting started in Scotland”

I am an alcohol addict. I struggled for 2 years to get clean and sober, not because I wasn’t ready, but because I was suffering from a disease. I struggled to identify in NA and relapsed many times. I eventually met a man at my food stall who was a long time sober, and a long story short, he became my sponsor in AA and I went through the BIG BOOK (1998). I had a profound experience, and to this day I have not used ANYTHING. I loved AA and I still am very grateful to them. I tried to help many people who used drugs in AA, mainly cocaine, but none could stay sober, including my brother. Many of them tried NA and had the same problem that I had. I struggled to identify in AA with my drug use. I tried my best to respect the organization, but found it hard sometimes, as I craved identification with my cocaine use, and therefore I would separate myself. A friend then gave me a share tape of someone I’m sure most of you know, Micky B., from Cocaine Anonymous. I enjoyed listening to the tape, but was not driven at that time to start a meeting.

My brother had moved to London and was still using badly when a miracle happened… He called and asked for help. I directed him to Cocaine Anonymous, as I knew CA was in London, and I also got him a copy of HFC from Amazon. My brother took to CA right away and he felt at home for the first time since becoming an addict.

I flew down to London many times that year, and I think there were only 15 meetings. My first meeting was in a hospital and ‘Nick the Stitch’ was doing the table. I went to Flood Street on a Saturday, and I fell in love with the place, and most importantly, I felt that I was a part of something special. CA was that small at the time; we all knew each other. I would come home with so much enthusiasm for the

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organization that my AA sponsor would shake his head at me. At this point, I was playing around with the idea of starting a meeting in Scotland, knowing full well that other people had tried before me, and that it had never really taken off.

I then attended the CA Brighton Convention in 2001. Loads of Americans came over, including Ken C. The next thing I knew, I had a starter pack from the UK, and CA was starting in Scotland! My AA sponsor again shook his head at me, but accepted that there was no stopping me. CA Scotland was up and running less than six weeks after the Brighton Convention. I must stress here that others were involved in this whole process, and that this letter is not about me taking recognition for starting CA in my country. I am telling my story for the sole purpose of effectively conveying the reasoning behind my deep concerns.

I did the first PI work (2^nd flyer included). I printed the first flyer that said “COCAINE ANONYMOUS MEETING STARTING” and gave it to friends in AA who had a cocaine problem. I was told that people were coming from another fellowship to protest, and I was heavily criticized, but I knew in my heart that Cocaine Anonymous was needed and had a place in Scotland. There were 27 people at the first meeting and it was electric! Many people who were in AA struggling to get sober are now grateful, active members of CA. One such person who started PI, later became my husband and the father of my children. We have now been married for over twelve years which I count as a miracle in itself! Many people joined from NA as well, and were able to find a home in CA.

Sadly my brother left CA London, but through his relapse, he ended up in Spain and started the first meeting there with others. He then left CA Spain and was away for many years, but I am incredibly proud and grateful now to be able to report that he is 90 days clean and sober.

My experience has always been that anyone who has ever come through the doors of Cocaine Anonymous has always been welcomed. Even my AA sponsor, who was very helpful in starting CA Scotland, and who openly admitted that he was not one of us, was always welcomed and highly respected. I feel he was the same to us as Tom K was to LA/World Services.

“The growth I have witnessed since May 8^th 2001”

We grew mainly through resentment of other fellowships. The first meeting group closed, but the next group meetings that opened are still active today. We became a District of the UK in February of 2003, but when Jackie S. became Trustee, we were encouraged to become an Area in order to support the start of the European Region. We were recognized as an Area in 2003.

Over the years, we have had great growth. In fact, we have grown at the same pace as the UK Area in terms of our number of meetings, although not financially I’m afraid. In the first 12 years that CA was in the UK, they had 47 meetings (meeting list from April, 2004), and in 12 ½ years, CA Scotland had 49 meetings. Although we have made great progress, Scotland has and continues to have a massive cocaine problem (news articles attached).

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My husband became First Delegate in 2005; however, he could not adequately fulfil his duties, as we were unable to gain enough sponsorship to send him to Conference, and we could not personally afford the trip. We did our best to create interest and stress the importance of attending World, but we struggled to get support from our Area. I think we decided to proxy our votes to the UK Area at that time. In 2011, we were finally able to send delegates to Conference, and this year we are hoping to send delegates as well (subject to funding). I have the utmost confidence in our current delegates, and our Area continues to educate ourselves about CA processes such as referrals.

“The rebranding and the concerns I have”

I have found the last 6 months of CA to be very unsettling, and after speaking with others in my Area and around the world, I have discovered the reason why I am feeling that way. I must stress that I am not speaking on behalf of anyone other than myself, as a member of CA.

A series of events that have occurred in our area recently has brought to the surface an obvious problem and a potential divider in members old and new. This issue involves our PI Area and PI District eliminating the word “cocaine” in recent campaigns (see attached).

Below are views which members have personally shared with me, and which I find especially concerning:

• Cocaine addicts are not feeling comfortable sharing about their cocaine use because another drug is now primarily spoken about in my area.
• Cocaine addicts a few years sober have stopped coming to CA altogether because they don’t identify anymore. Many are now just going to AA, and we are not retaining members.
• Four members that I know personally who are cocaine addicts left CA last month because they didn’t identify with the other drug shares.
• Members are upset because “cocaine” seems to be getting put aside in PI and amended literature and reading cards. For instance, the Self-Test verbiage from World has changed dramatically.
• Most meetings have adapted the Who is a CA Member, and when I asked my own group to read Who is a Cocaine Addict recently, it was an issue getting it passed, as if it was somehow wrong. There was also a distinct awkwardness in the room when it was read out loud.
• Barriers are going up between cocaine and heroin users as a result of the obvious differences in the way they use. I understand that as we continue through the program, whichever drug we used doesn’t make much difference, but in the beginning, it can (and does) make a huge difference. For instance, my cousin, who is a heroin addict, still attends NA as he identifies better there. This issue goes back to the whole reason CA started in the first place… AA meetings were not easy to identify with for cocaine addicts. The fact remains that there was (and still is) a non-drug-specific fellowship at that time, but thankfully people felt there was a need for Cocaine Anonymous, the same way I did (and still do). That being said, all were and still are welcomed who are attracted to CA. Even if someone doesn’t use cocaine, if his drug use brings him to us, then he is probably in the right place.

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• Branding us as a drug or alcohol program would not have attracted our original members in Scotland, and will not attract addicts who may still be searching for a home. There are many members who came to CA because they thought they had a cocaine only problem… We all know once you get in, it is much more than that, but we need to get them in first.
• We need to carry the message to a wider audience. There are plenty of fellowships that cater to everyone, but not all cocaine addicts fit the molds of those other fellowships.
• Headlining the word “alcohol” is dangerous grounds for disrespecting the fellowship that helped us get started in first place. Though alcoholics are welcome, are we now wanting to target AA prospects??? Old-timers in AA in my Area were not impressed with our recent wordings of PI. It is only a matter of time before we offend the fellowship that helped us get on the ground.
• When you Google “drug and alcohol problem,” the search highlights outside organizations, but if you search “cocaine anonymous,” CA is at the top of the results page.
• The “Who is a CA Member” that was approved in 2008 has influenced our membership in such a way that we are attracting more people who are jumping from other fellowships. This is not our purpose.
• People are getting confused about us being a non-specific fellowship and are concerned that we are losing our identity. NA members who are in NA groups are serving on committees in CA and making major decisions for our future. Also now, CA members in non-CA groups are sharing in H&I because it is considered all the same.
• If we make any further changes regarding our organization’s purpose, we will certainly be crossing over to Drug Addicts Anonymous.
• Our main purpose now is to carry our message to addicts in general, whereas we started as an organization for cocaine addicts.
• By highlighting the fact that we are “non-drug-specific,” we may increase numbers, but the internal damage, including our loss of identity, could destroy CA for good, at least for the original cocaine addict.
• Many people now have confusion about the differences between NA, AA, and CA.
• People are attracted to Cocaine Anonymous for very specific reasons, which may simply be that they are probably in the right place and are welcome.
• Now there are members who were originally attracted to CA because of the brand “Cocaine Anonymous” that want to change our brand to attract a bigger audience.
• A lot of cocaine users that I know and have helped over the years do not come in thinking that they have problems with other substances, though through the first step they are educated about the “All Other.” However, most came in specifically because they identified with “Cocaine” of “Cocaine Anonymous” and that was what attracted them to our fellowship. Many had tried other programs and didn’t identify with them, which is why they sought CA.
• I believe that at this time, the “All Other” mind altering part of CA is more of a priority than the reason that this fellowship started in the first place, especially keeping in mind that AA and NA were available in 1982. Our founders chose CA because they saw a need, and I feel strongly that that need still exists.

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• Though “CA” and “cocaine” are still featured on our posters, etc., a new phrasing is taking over that is moving the emphasis away from our original purpose.
• We, as a fellowship, ought to steer clear of using words like “drugs” and “alcohol.”
• “Cocaine” is becoming a dirty word in Cocaine Anonymous.

“My observation of rebranding and reasoning of the ‘All Other’”

The first step, as I understand it, was put together at the dinner and included cocaine and all other mind altering substances, the reason being that cocaine addicts thought it was ok to use other drugs. It was there so that there was no loop hole for relapse, and we welcomed anyone who came in. I still respect that decision and welcome everyone. What I feel has happened over the years, is that the “all other” is taking away from the reason we started.

What I have noticed is that abbreviations of the first step and highlighting of the “all other” have led to a misinterpretation of what was originally meant. I have serious concerns that we are changing our purpose that was set when CA was founded, and that we are becoming a fellowship that already existed before our founding, in fact there were two.

• Cocaine AND all other mind altering (still wording of step and tradition)
• Cocaine OR all other mind altering (PI approved posters)
• Cocaine OR DRUGS OR ALCOHOL (wording from PI cards)
• Headlining “Non-drug –specific” and “Drugs or Alcohol” problem (was not what was on the yellow card that was given to the Marshal in AA meetings, and was not what attracted people to CA in Scotland)
• DRUG OR ALCHOHOL PROBLEM (WORDING USED IN PI)
• My own Area wants to steer away from using the word “cocaine” so as to reach a bigger audience.

The objections I have come across and my views in the last few months are as follows:

• It’s all the same – If it’s all the same, then why are so many new members changing the literature? The Self-Test which was specifically designed for cocaine identification has massively changed three questions that HELPED cocaine addicts identify specifically. Also, there was a separate pamphlet “All Other” for everyone else that may have come through the doors that welcomed them too.
• It’s all the same – If it’s all the same, then why did a bunch of cocaine addicts start in the first place when they could have gone to the non-drug-specific fellowship at that time.
• We are clarifying our membership – It was clarified during the dinner many years ago.
• We are evolving – So is the world. There are many new fellowships to accommodate other addictions now.

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• CA is not growing. We need to try to get membership up – Washingtonians! Also cocaine is still a global problem. See attached articles in my own Area – Trust God.
• There are new drugs out – “All other” still covers everything and COCAINE is still a massive problem. There is still a need to reach out as Cocaine Anonymous.
• Focused on the “We are non-drug-specific” message – We were specially named Cocaine Anonymous for a reason.
• Wording needs to change to be more modern – Most of us still manage in CA to go through a book that has not been touched since 1939. Although it is very old fashioned, it has not been a barrier for thousands of us.
• Non cocaine addicts won’t come – Two things here: 1.) People have been coming for years knowing we are CA, and 2.) If they feel strongly on the word “cocaine” being an issue, they may be better in a more general substance fellowship. There are plenty of choices for ALL addicts out there.

I must stress at this point that I am not trying to put people out of CA, and I do and have always sponsored people even if they didn’t use cocaine or it wasn’t their main problem. That said, I feel strongly that cocaine users will eventually struggle to get clean as they all do not share the opinion that it’s all the same and some do struggle to identify in Cocaine Anonymous with all the new changes in our reading cards and pamphlets.

We are Cocaine Anonymous, and nothing would upset me more than for our fellowship to become increasingly irrelevant or no longer needed. Bill W. wrote in the 12×12, “Shoemaker stick to thy last.” In other words, do what it is you do best. We can never be all things to all addicts nor should we attempt to be.

Cocaine Anonymous, with the simple statement, “cocaine and all other mind altering substances” unknowingly covered all the horrors that were not even dreamed of at the time CA started.

• I would like to see the word “cocaine” always featured in any PI work we do before it’s too late, as there are two referrals in this year to focus more again on the “non-drug-specific.”
• I would like Self-Test put back into its original context because it was powerful for cocaine identification (6 7 8 11 12 20).
• I would like “Who is a Cocaine Addict” and what brought us to CA to be protected from ever being modernized to suit new members because it is part of the limited history we have. It’s not the end of the world about the corners of brown bottles. I, along with any self respecting cocaine addict, still identify plenty with that reading. Nobody has changed the Big Book, and we still use it today.
• I would like for us to use the original wording and stick to it: “Cocaine and all other…” and “Trust God.” If people are attracted to CA, then they are meant to be in our fellowship.

I am aware of CA’s Statement of Purpose, etc., but most people in my Area don’t go beyond Who is a CA Member Card (group Ll), which I think, though it was done with the best possible intention, has

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in fact confused our fellowship, and made it into a general fellowship. Is that Cocaine Anonymous’ intent today and for the future?

My biggest concern is that cocaine addicts will no longer be able to identify in CA if we keep focusing on evolving to new audiences.

““The World Service Conference meets annually to unify the Fellowship and consider those actions which affect the Fellowship as a whole. Comprised of Delegates from all the recognized Areas of C.A., as well as the Trustees and the World Service Office Board, the Conference considers how best to carry the message of recovery from cocaine addiction to those outside, as well as inside, the meeting rooms of Cocaine Anonymous. Committees of the Conference cover various areas that affect carrying that message of recovery: Literature, Hospitals and Institutions, Public Information, Convention (responsible for the annual World Service Convention), and Unity. Other Committees address the internal functions of the Fellowship: Conference, Finance, and Structure and Bylaws.

ASNWER:

Dear member,

Thank you for your thoughtful correspondence. With heartfelt appreciation for your many years of hard work and sacrifice to the addict who still suffers, the WSBT would like to acknowledge your efforts of carrying the message of Cocaine Anonymous.

The transition from a being a Cocaine centric fellowship to a more diverse fellowship is in keeping with the maturity of Cocaine Anonymous worldwide.

From the conference approved pamphlet ….And all other mind altering substances;

TRADITION THREE: The only requirement for C.A. membership is a desire to stop using cocaine and all other mind-altering substances.

Many people come to Cocaine Anonymous thinking one of two things: “I rarely (or never) even used cocaine. I don’t think I belong here,” or “What exactly does the ‘and all other mind-altering substances’ part mean? I came to Cocaine Anonymous because cocaine had become a problem in my life.”

Those of us who have been C.A. members for a while have heard questions and statements like this before; perhaps the words were even our own. Over time, virtually every single one of us has realized that our real problem is not cocaine or any specific drug, it is the disease of addiction.

Some of us never even used cocaine. Some of us used a variety of drugs, and for others it was combining cocaine with alcohol and/or other drugs that got us into trouble and made our lives miserable…The point is that addicts like us soon find ourselves unable to stop using the substitute. Whatever drug we use, the problem of not being able to stop resurfaces, often bigger than before.

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At some point we finally realize that we cannot control our use of any mind-altering substances. The problem isn’t the drug of choice; the problem is the disease of addiction. With its Third Tradition and all-inclusive First Step, Cocaine Anonymous welcomes anyone with a drug or alcohol problem and offers a solution.

SO WHAT DOES “AND ALL OTHER MIND-ALTERING SUBSTANCES” MEAN?

It means that it is the collective experience of the members of Cocaine Anonymous that addiction is a problem not limited to any one substance. It means that C.A.’s Twelve Steps are not drug-specific, and that Cocaine Anonymous is not a drug-specific fellowship. It means that it doesn’t matter to us if you drank or what type of drugs you used; if you have a desire to stop, you are welcome here!

As per Tradition Five the intent of Cocaine Anonymous is to carry its message to the addict who still suffers.

TRADITION FIVE: Each group has but one primary purpose — to carry its message to the addict who still suffers.

These traditions play an important part in any group’s decision regarding format and structure. In cases when groups are considering drug related restrictions, it would be important that the group consider 3 and 5 in their decision. The WSBT also believes that any group restricting participation in any meeting to a single drug specific issue would negatively affect our common welfare and promote DIS-unity among those desperate for our message of hope and recovery. As to the word “and” found in our definition of a CA member and the possible literal implication that cocaine is a required drug for membership – according to a dictionary definition of the conjunction “and” from http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/and – 11. (used to connect alternatives): ex. He felt that he was being forced to choose between his career and his family.

The future of Cocaine Anonymous is always driven by the Second Tradition.

Which states “For our group purpose there is but one ultimate authority – a loving God as He may express Himself in our group conscience. Our leaders are but trusted servants; they do not govern.”

In love and service

CA World Service Board of Trustees

MESSAGE:

Although love and tolerance is our code and education of traditions is ongoing – often posters / emails for event reference such Christian festivals as Easter event / Christmas party etc – I never see Dewali brunch or Ramadam cookout !

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What is the boards position on using Christian refs and there possible affect on our ever expanding membership in places like Iran / Russia etc where a variety of religious beliefs are held seriously indeed

?or even in London where i sponsor a Muslim from Pakistan ( he is NOT attending a Christmas event in the near future )?

ANSWER:

Dear member:

Thank you for your question and concerns.

Here is our view on this: In keeping with Tradition One with regards to C.A. unity and Tradition Six in regards to affiliation with outside enterprises, our suggestion is to avoid association, actual or perceived with religious, political, or any outside issue that might offend or create a sense of exclusion to fellow members.

In love and service

CA World Service Board of Trustees

MESSAGE:

Greetings, Members of the WSBT,

I apologize if any of this sounds redundant in any way, I am attempting to keep the chronologics in order as to not have to send you 38 emails, but they are available if you’d like to review them in their entirety.

I need to share with you some issues that have arisen with Craig A. the PI Chair, Grace M. the PI Vice Chair and Ira L. the WST assigned to PI.

To all parties: My only desire in this is for a clear and acceptable method for conducting CA’s business that doesn’t result in stalemates, arguments or biased behavior.

Here is an overview of the situation as I believe it to be.

Between conference calls, I sent an email prefacing to the committee, the need to make motions regarding two agenda items that I have volunteered to work on. In this effort I made two motions (within them were my “speaking to my motion verbiage”) so that everyone isn’t caught off guard with something that was too broad like a simple one line motion. The motion was then seconded my Destiny M, then seconded again by Robert O, then agreed with, which I construed as a second, by Derek H. The following morning, the first second made by Destiny M, was retracted. I enquired on Destiny M. as to why she retracted her second and I will address that separately below. Then the Chair began debating

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the motions stating there wasn’t enough information to collectively vote on; never once “ruling” on anything. Theresa H requests documentation regarding the motions etc. Which I send to the committee. Grace M weighs in, spouting weary concerns about “people” who “have an agenda” and ‘want to make things happen” reminding the committee to practice principles before personalities. The Chair continues debating the difference between a gateway domain and an linked domain that is being used for obtaining survey data which was part of the content of the motion, combatively telling me, “I am wrong and mistaken” upon every rebuttal. I attempt to contact The Chair privately. I tell him that I find his conduct debating the motion a bit outside any chairs’ purview. In that private email, I request him to facilitate the debate, reminding him he is The Chair and his duties are supposed to outweigh, his personal agenda. This exchange goes back forth until he essentially blows me off. He then sends an email stating that the committee will only address my motions during a conference call, which he provides some dates for. Which are then questioned by Derek H and Robert O who try to ask why a conference call rather than settling it online. The Chair refuses to answer. Alan S chimes in with his experience, later agreeing that email is an acceptable method for getting committee work done. Ira then weighs in, after being requested by an unknown number of members. I then send a private email to Ira informing him of the inappropriateness of The Chair’s behaviour towards Destiny M. Then Ira chimes in again, quoting directly from the WSBT Manual for Online Procedures which would seem to support and encourage us to do business online, but is delivered as a biased argument; giving off the “governing” vibe which was immediately questioned by Derek H, and subsequently not responded to either. Then Chair sends an email attempting to setup the conference call, and I then state that he’s out of order, he states that he’s “ruled” on this already and at that time I made a valid Challenge to The Chair, who then ruled on his own challenge, the Vice-Chair never responds attempting to address the Challenge, the committee nor I are addressed directly about the Challenge and then Ira chimes in telling me directly that he sustains The Chair’s ruling without remark or regard that the Challenge was ever addressed and then proceeded to call me out of order. I then respond to Ira objecting to his statements.

Roberts Rules Online #58 “The chairman cannot close debate unless by order of the assembly, which requires a two-thirds vote.”

Roberts Rules Online #58: “The chairman sometimes calls a member to the chair and takes part in the debate. This should rarely be done, and nothing can justify it in a case where much feeling is shown and there is a liability to difficulty in preserving order. If the chairman has even the appearance of being a partisan, he loses much of his ability to control those who are on the opposite side of the question. There is nothing to justify the unfortunate habit some chairmen have of constantly speaking on questions before the assembly, even interrupting the member who has the floor. One who expects to take an active part in debate should never accept the chair, or at least should not resume the chair, after having made his speech, until after the pending question is disposed of. The presiding officer of a large assembly should never be chosen for any reason except his ability to preside.”

With regard to the Chair’s conduct regarding Destiny M.

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The chair has wilfully ignored one of the most coveted concepts the “Right of Participation” thus ignoring WSM Page 38 “Any member of Cocaine Anonymous may serve and vote on any World Service Conference Committee” When it became clear to me that the Chair was attempting to circumvent my motions by telling Destiny M that even though she is included in the email chain (for the last two years) and who is a member of the committee – tells her she isn’t a member of the committee and doesn’t have a vote because she didn’t attend conference and needs to retract her second. Instead, if he believed my motions to be out of order, he should have ruled so after the second and before the debate but he didn’t do that.

I whole heartedly believe my attempts to resolve the issues using the customary methods to do so, have failed. Attempts to request the use of Robert Rules of Order have failed. Attempts to challenge the Chair resulted in the Chair ruling on his own challenge and the WST sustaining his ruling, by calling me out of order (which was nonsensical), has also failed.

In closing, I am formally requesting action be taken by the WSBT, by having the TAL review and attempt to impartially resolve the issues that seem to be going unresolved. I believe that the current Trustee assigned has a clear lack of knowledge as demonstrated by sustaining the Chair’s rulings and not addressing the Challenges which were validly made at the onset and during the debate; which failed tobe addressed by the Vice Chair nor the concerns regarding the Chair’s conduct towards another CA member, clearly ignoring the WSM page 38. Therefore I request the TAL’s immediate involvement to bring impartiality to a situation that has become very convoluted by conjecture and bias.

ANSWER:

Dear member

Thank you for your correspondence.

In the spirit of unity and cooperation, it is the view of the WSBT that a reset would best serve the committee and Cocaine Anonymous as a whole. Resuming committee business on the next conference call would be a beginning to mend. Continuing your committee work is important to the growth of our fellowship.

Dr. Bob said he believed that the Twelve Steps, simmered to their essence, were described in the phrase “love and service”.

In love and service

CA World Service Board of Trustees

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FOLLOW-UP MESSAGE:

WSBT,

Can I ask for a clearer explanation of what is referred to as a “reset”?

ANSWER:

Dear Patrick

Thank you for your follow up question.

What does “reset” mean? Reset means to start over. The spirit of the original response was to restart the process of performing committee work after the last conference.

The WSBT understands the challenges of trying to do committee work on line. There are no set rules and clearly there are some dynamics of performing committee work and trying to adhere to some basic structural rules of conducting such business on line.

Seemingly the progress that the committee has made during the last committee conference call has helped in restarting the process of the committee doing business in between conferences. As always the the lead and second Trustee assigned to that committee will help with guidance if needed.

In love and service

CA World Service Board of Trustees

REFERRALS THAT WERE WORKED ON DURING THE YEAR:

Referral #7130

Please provide brief minutes of WSBT meetings. These to be distributed to the fellowship whilst they are still relevant.

Response: The WSBT goal is to approve the minutes within a month after our conference call or Quarterly meeting. These are then sent to the office to be included in the next delegate mailing.

Referral #7131

Please desist from producing full transcript minutes of the WSBT meetings. It is understood that there is no legal requirement to produce these and it is a huge drain on time and financial resources. The time taken to produce full transcriptions makes the information contained obsolete.

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Response: We have looked at this issue extensively, first and foremost the WSBT believes that the transparency of the board is of great importance, our minutes only reflect the motion or a very general description of the discussion and the transcripts are the wording of our meeting recordings.

Referral #7322

To change all “CA” owned entities to private foundations and change 501c3 to 509c2.

See attachment for reasons.

• The would limit legal expenses
• This would eliminate the 150 mile rule
• This would change (increase) member’s ability to donate
• This would eliminate State mandates imposed on public benefit not-for-profits
• This would change four tax status and save us money

Answer:

No action taken. 501c3 better fits our organization at this time.

Referral #7255

With regard to the proposed European literature fulfillment facility/centre. Please to be able to make a “one stop shop” for all our literature requirements.

This would entail being able to purchase not only C.A. literature but also the AA publications as listed under the Advisory Opinions section of the WSC Approved Literature. A facility that does not do this will not meet our needs.

Answer;

Our WSO plans for a fulfillment facility within Europe would only stock inventory shared by our LA based WSO. We do not stock or supply AA literature from our main office and would not be doing so at any CAWSO engaged supplier.

Referral #7282

It is my understanding that any votes tallied by the TEC are counted by the trustees alone. If this is true, I would recommend that this process be changed so that there is equal representation by both trustees and delegates doing the counting process.

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Answer:

The current procedure has unfolded from experiences that were found to jeopardize the integrity of the process. The counting process was changed from allowing the entire committee to participate in the count to allow only the TEC chair and TEC vice-chair to tally the votes. The fellowship has entrusted the WSBT to be responsible, accountable and maintain a high level of integrity.

Referral #7326

Social media is a big part of our lives today. I see our C.A. logo quite a lot! I feel it be necessary to have social media added in to our 11th Tradition. It is trademarked. Anyone can use it without C.A.’s authorization. I do not state C.A. in any of my posts etc. because there are those such as my son who do not need to have my anonymity broken for his sake. I feel that newcomers can misconstrue this and be okay adding the C.A. logo or using it not knowing it is a tradition violation.

Answer:

Your insight is very keen and your diligence in keeping with the traditions is highly respected. We have been deliberating this for some time now. As a whole, Cocaine Anonymous adheres to the 11^th Tradition. The Information Technology committee has been viewing this at as well. Our 11^th Tradition indeed speaks to press, radio, television, and film. The 11^th Tradition in its original form did not relate itself to television what-so-ever. At this point, according to our Information Technology Guidelines, social media is considered social networking. The IT guidelines speak to your concerns.

Tradition 11:

Our public relations policy is based on attraction rather than promotion; we need always maintain personal anonymity at the level of press, radio, television and films.

Information Technology (IT) Committee Workbook and Guidelines

SOCIAL NETWORKING, BLOGGING, & MICRO-BLOGGING

Social networking, blogging, micro-blogging, and other tools have emerged as daily communication methods for individual members. When using these tools, we need always be mindful to not use the C.A. logo, Cocaine Anonymous name, or other registered trademarks of C.A. (e.g., “C.A.”, “Hope, Faith and Courage”, “We’re Here and We’re Free”, etc.) and to be respectful of anonymity and other spiritual principles in accordance with the Twelve Traditions of C.A. It is further suggested that members refrain from posting on any of the tools mentioned above any photos and/or videos that identify any activity, entity or person as being associated with Cocaine Anonymous.

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Referral #7364

I am concerned how directors on the WSOB can serve more than the maximum term. Nowhere else in our service structure is this permitted; trustees don’t get a second term, nor do conference officers, so how can this even be acceptable. The WSM is acceptable on this, so how can this be please. Thank you.

Answer:

The following is from our World Service Manual, p 62:

“Each CAWSO board member shall serve a two-year term and be ratified no less than once per year at a meeting by each of the CAWSO board and WSBT. Such ratification vote or votes can be called for by a two-thirds majority of members of either board. If a CAWSO board member is not ratified and does not resign at the request of the WSBT the WSBT may remove said CAWSO member by a two-thirds majority vote. The first term of each CAWSO Board member begins upon ratification by the WSBT and ends at the close of the third WSC. No member shall serve more than three consecutive terms. For thepurposes of this paragraph the term ―CAWSO Board member shall not include paid Directors, or the World Service Trustee. In the case of the World Service Office Trustee, when elected Trustee, the WSO Trustee shall not serve more than four consecutive years on the WSBT and…”

REFERRALS STILL WORK IN PROGRESS:

None

CLOSING COMMENTS:

With rotation being of huge value, and a recognized necessity, your WSBT look forward to the outcome of TEC activities at this conference. With 4 members of the Board rotating off at the close of this conference we hope we can continue the fresh and focused attitude that allows for continued service and due diligence at this level of service.

Your WSBT would like to thank you for allowing us to serve you throughout the past 12 months. Please know that we are available throughout conference and the upcoming year to assist the Fellowship of Cocaine Anonymous in its endeavors to carry the message to the addict who still suffers.

In Love, Service and Gratitude

Cocaine Anonymous World Service Board of Trustees

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Tony D – Any questions for the WSBT?

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Stu E – Can I make a comment?

Tony D – No, this is a time for questions.

Stu E – Thank you to all the trustees, for your tremendous sacrifice for the fellowship. I read your report and some of the referrals. There is a lengthy one from Scotland. There is a lot of food for thought in there about stepping away from using the word Cocaine. When I read the response, I’m wondering if that is an adequate response. I find it personally discouraging that a lot of meetings won’t even read “Who Is A Cocaine Addict.”

Russell S – There was further communication with the member who made the motion. Your point is to be considered. We strive to stay within our scope and use the literature of C.A. I don’t see us changing our membership requirement, but clarifying it. There was a number of one-on-one discussions with the writer of the motion.

John M – Thank you to all the trustees for the job you have done. Are you aware that this is not a sole voice? This is something that I’ve been approached with on several occasions. There appears to be a growing dissatisfaction with the downing of the use of the word Cocaine.

Russell S- We have considered this gravely. I think we have always grounded our responses from our literature. Individual members need to continue to bring their concerns to the Delegates.

John M – There is a growing number of people with this concern.

Russell S- Yes, we are aware, but it is not as loud as the voice at the Conference.

Jim S – Are you aware of the good you are doing with the all-inclusivity of your response to this question?

Russell S– Yes.

Cameron F – Last year there was a referral about the branding of Cocaine Anonymous and the tag line of ‘Cocaine and all mind altering substances.’ Can you clarify on this?

Russell S – No, the secretaries, will get back with you on this info.

Tony D – Are there any more questions for the WSBT? Seeing none, let’s take a short break.

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