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Cocaine Anonymous World Service Conference 2003
Sunday, August 31, 2003-Day 5
Daily Summary
Session called to Order
Serenity Prayer
Roll Call 102
Quorum- 68
Chair Announcements
Leon Mason- Announcement
LCF COMMITTEE REPORT
INTRODUCTION AND OPENING COMMENTS:
Our members include:
Sherri Hoffman OSA Chair (returning)
Scott Keaveny SGPVCA Vice Chair (returning)
Judy Weissman WSOB Secretary
Dave McQuaig GA Alt-Secretary
Cynthia Cronkhite PNRT LCF Trustee
Susan Doch FL Storybook Sub-committee Chair
Ronald Antwine CALA
Greg Baron San Diego
Jack Barron London UK
Curt Boldt AZ
Gillian Crabtree-Rowan Alberta
Armando Escosedo CA
Danny Falcone OK
Paulette Furoy N. Alberta
Rick Hoffman OR/WA
Tonderick Jones FL
Scott Linard AL
Kevin Murphy OSA
Russ Nimrod Orange Co
Alan Traylor CALA
Karl Urbach CALA
Yves White Quebec
LCF received 29 new referrals this year. As per our 12 Step Literature Approval Process, we also have a number of literature pieces in progress that have already been approved as concepts that are “works in progress.” We also
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reviewed the motions that were tabled at previous conferences, seeking resolution and progress on any old projects that may have been stalled in the process.
We have developed an LCF TIMELINE as a guide for our committee work for 2003-2004. (See TIMELINE attached) Incorporated into this timeline are specific deadline dates for the Storybook Subcommittee progress. As well, this timeline serves as a guide to the movement of the literature pamphlets and other pieces currently at Point 4 (in subcommittee) and in anticipation of compliance with SR14.
We anticipate communication via email, mail and phone and will utilize our budget as efficiently and frugally as possible to accomplish our goals.
REFERRALS THAT RESULTED IN MOTIONS:
Referrals #2345, 3538 and 3632:
2345: Change design of chip; front with registered trademark; back with the words “We’re Here and We’re Free.”
3538: Redesign chip back to include trademark words “We’re Here and We’re Free.”
3632: Redesign chip back to include trademark words “We’re Here and We’re Free.”
Motion to authorize the WSO to change the reverse of the chips to have the CA trademarked motto “We’re Here and We’re Free” around the edge, with all applicable numbers expressed in Arabic numerals in the middle, with day, month or year indicator underneath as indicated on the attached graphic (Attachment A).
Second
Brian Tennenbaum- Point of information
Is it currently Arabic numerals?
Gillian- It is both
Lynn Hollaman- Speak against the motion
Prefer the Hope Faith and Courage design
Bob Lemon
Point of Information– Does it not also include the Hope Faith and Courage?
Gillian – Yes it has the complete logo
Ivan Libson – Point of information – What is the cost?
Gillian – The mold has not been changed and we are bringing this to you now so that there will be no extra charge for the change.
Freeman Houston- Point of information– Is the front going to remain the same?
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Gillian – Yes
The motion is only about the plastic chip
Aaron- Is the color going to be the same?
Gillian – Yes
Member – speaks against the motion
Shane Merck- I speak against the motion
Heidi Johnathan- Speaks in favor of the motion
Heidi Johnathan – Friendly amendment – Add the word Plastic
Accepted
Motion now reads: To authorize the WSO to change the reverse of the plastic chips to have the CA trademarked motto “We’re Here and We’re Free” around the edge, with all applicable numbers expressed in Arabic numerals in the middle, with day, month or year indicator underneath as indicated on the attached graphic (Attachment A).
Jay Statland- Did I hear you say there was no cost for the chip
Sherri Hoffman- Last year the WSC voted to change the front of the chip. So the office is poised to change the chip and there is no additional cost. But it is about $25.00.
Patty Flanagan- The $25.00 change is already been set aside per chip
Scott Keaveny- Call the question
Second
Motion Passes
Motion to authorize the WSO to change the reverse of the plastic chips to have the CA trademarked motto “We’re Here and We’re Free” around the edge, with all applicable numbers expressed in Arabic numerals in the middle, with day, month or year indicator underneath as indicated on the attached graphic (Attachment A).
Motion Passes with noted opposition
Referral #3671: Create plastic chips for years 31-40
Motion to authorize WSO to make chips and medallions for such years and in such languages as they see a need.
Second
Bryan Bell– Point of information Did we not make a motion that we would not create chips over the age of CA
Kevin Murphy- To the best of my knowledge No
Bob Lemon- Point of information – In regards to the cost have you sourced this out?
Point of Order- He is speaking to the referral not the motion
Chair- He is asking a question
Patty Flanigan- $125.00 for the medallion is as needed
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Leon Mason- I speak against the motion as written, I believe at this time it is not needed.
Paulette Furoy- I speak in favor of this motion, because it authorizes the WSO to create medallions as they see fit
Jennifer Jacques– Point of information – Is the office currently not authorized for 31 – 40 years?
Kevin Murphy- I speak in favor of the motion
This is just to help the WSO to give the fellowship what it has been asking for
Scott Botz- Speaking in favor of the motion
Sean Dugan- Point of information – What is the current process for creating chips in greater years?
Chair – the question has been answered
Aura Ruiz- Speak in favor of the motion
Freeman Houston – Motion to call the question
Second
Motion Passes
Motion to authorize WSO to make chips and medallions for such years and in such languages as they see a need.
Melvin Bureda-
Make a motion to limit debate to 5 for and 5 against for the duration of this session
Second
Motion passes with some opposition
Suzanne –5th concept statement
Aaron Jacobsen – Motion to rescind the last motion to limit debate.
Evan Anderson – Parliamentary Inquiry –
Motion Withdrawn
Tony Drake- I Believe the previous man wanted to Rescind not reconsider
Brian Bell – I move to reconsider the previous motion to limit debate
Second
Motion Passes with some noted opposition
Motion to limit debate to 5 for and 5 against for the duration of this session
Failed with Unanimity
Referral #3539: Approve concept of 12-step meditation book based on materials collected from CA resources (LCF resource sub-committee) and according to the results of the book survey conducted 2001-2002.
Motion to approve the concept of a CA 12 Step meditation book/daily reader in response to the results of the Book Survey conducted in 2001-2002.
Second
All that this motion is about is a concept to create, to look at to consider.
Diane Wabisch – I speak against this motion
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Tony Drake- Point of information – How many surveys did you get back and how many asked for this?
Sherri Hoffman- 30 % of the votes
Jay Statland- I speak against this motion
John Bodkin- I speak in favor of the motion, it is what our fellowship is asking for. It is a good business practice and CA is also a business.
Kevin Murphy- I speak in favor of the motion we will be mindful of the God Issue. We are really just giving the delegation and fellowship what you asked for.
Rick Hoffman- I speak in favor of this motion. Please let us do the work you have asked us to do.
Ron Antwon- I speak in favor of the motion – Echoes Rick’s cements
Greg – Speak against the motion – This may not be in keeping with the Big Book
Pilar Ruiz- Motion to call the vote
Second
Motion Passes with noted opposition
Motion to approve the concept of a CA 12 Step meditation book/daily reader in response to the results of the Book Survey conducted in 2001-2002.
Motion Passes with Noted opposition
Referrals #2865 and 3405:
2865: Please do not proceed with Self-Acceptance piece of literature and pull from 12point process.
3405: Against pamphlet (Self-Acceptance) being necessary.
Motion to accept the pamphlet “Self-Acceptance” as Conference approved literature as written and distributed in the 2003 June delegate mailing.
Second
Rick Hoffman- The title is self-acceptance and content is the steps. We have edited it and are moving forward on this and we ask you to approve this piece and let us move forward.
Concept 5 Minority Opinion
Jennifer Jauques- I speak against the motion- I was the referrer, this is not what I asked for, I asked for a NA piece. It has been drastically rewritten.
I want the committee to go back and look at the original piece and referral.
Barry Haynes – I speak against the motion I never received this in my delegate mailing
Jay Statland- I speak against the motion
Re step one information
Beth Reinheart- I call the question
Chair Out of order
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Ron Antwon – I speak against the motion. I believe that self has always got me into trouble.
Freeman Houston- Parliamentary Inquiry – What happened to the motion to limit debate?
Chair It failed.
Cynthia Cronkite- I speak in favor of this motion and as it was it was not a CA piece. A committee member thought it had come up enough and we pressed on towards a piece which includes the process of working the steps and find self acceptance.
Shane Merck- I speak in favor of this motion – The mailing did come to our Area and everyone who read it, said they wanted it.
Kevin Murphy – I speak in favor of this motion. We had a 9 –5 vote in committee and we feel that was substantial unanimity. Sorry for those who did not get it in the mailing, we are only human I urge you to read it before you vote
Max Gregan- I speak in favor of this motion. I am very impressed with this piece and I feel it will be great value to the newcomer. This will remove the fear out of working the steps and may save even one newcomer. I love the content. I am slightly reluctant with the title.
Tony Drake- I speak against the motion – So is my area and not many people I know like it. I disagree strongly with this piece. I believe it is not the message of CA. We need to be very careful and think of the impact of this piece.
Diane Wabich – I speak against this motion – I too learned through working with a sponsor that the 12 steps work. No one from my area said they were for this but many people said they did not like it. Quoted the BB
Suzanne – I speak against the motion – It is an opinion and an outside issue
Candy Hall – I make a motion to table this until the other motions of LCF are read.
Second
Your motion is out of Order
Parliamentary Inquiry –Sherri Hoffman – Do I need to be recognized for our committee to withdraw our motion?
Yes
Candy Hall – I speak against the motion
Bryan Bell -Yield the floor to Sherri Hoffman
Sherri Hoffman- Withdraw the motion
Is there any objection to the withdrawal?
No objection.
Chair-Members of LCF please return to your seats for this time
Tony Drake – Motion to suspend the rules to consider an item out of order
Second
Motion Carries
Make a motion to move the Conference officer Elections to right now
Second
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Conference Officer Election (pages 7 – 8 of 17)
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Reports Continued
Referrals #2867 and 3607:
2867: Editing changes to “the Home Group” (see Attachment B)
3607: Believe Home Group pamphlet is too lengthy.
Motion to accept the pamphlet “THE HOME GROUP” as Conference approved literature with the grammar/punctuation/layout changes as shown on Attachment C.
Second
Paulette Furoy- Speaks in favor of the motion. This is at point 12 of the approval process
Kevin Murphy- Speaks in favor
Max Greeghan- Friendly amendment – To strike the heading Temporary Sponsorship
Out of Order
Steve Edwards – I speak in favor of the motion
John Whittaker- Speak in favor of the motion
Rick Delgado- Point of Information Are you planning on making it a free piece?
Paulette – that is not our Call.
Kevin Murphy- That is not part of this motion. It may come up at another time
Motion Passes with substantial unanimity
Referral #3044: Include 3rd Tradition on Unity pamphlet and correct typo in 1st Tradition in the draft distributed in delegate mailing.
Motion to accept the pamphlet “UNITY” as Conference approved literature with the typographical changes as shown on Attachment D.
Second
Brian Bell – was the idea for the applets to be a free or for cost pamphlet
Motion Passes with substantial unanimity
Referral #2915 (from 2002): Create a standardized Newcomer Packet.
Motion to approve concept of a Newcomer Booklet.
Second
This is only at point 3 on our list and it is just at the concept stage.
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Motion Passes with unanimity
Referral #2736 (2002): Develop a piece of literature on the topic “You Can Start a CA Meeting”
Motion to approve concept for a pamphlet “You Can Start a CA Meeting.”
Second
Susan Doch- This is only in the concept stage point 3. It will help the fellowship as a whole.
Motion Passes unanimously
Referral #3152: Create an informative pamphlet about working with others in 12th Step capacity. To help CA members make informed decisions about 12 Step Calls especially face-to-face. Info should be consistent with and in addition to the Helpline Handbook in pamphlet form for general distribution.
Motion to approve concept for pamphlet “Do’s and Don’ts for 12 Step Calls for Addicts”
Second
This is only to approve the concept. Since we deal with an illegal substance our 12 steps calls do require some different
Motion Passes With minor opposition
Referral #2656: Request to change chip color for chips over 1 year.
Motion to authorize WSO to pick color(s) for the chips for lengths of sobriety of 18 months and greater as they see fit.
Second
Yves – Speaks in favor of the motion
Kevin Murphy- speaks in favor of the motion – We are just asking you to approve what you have been asking us to do, but to authorize the office to do that.
Terry Marsden- I speak against this motion, I don’t see what the point is.
Teri Knight- I speak against the motion, I feel the committee should respond to the referral.
Candi Hall- I speak against the motion.
Aaron Jacobsen- I speak against the motion. I feel the committee should be responsible for the changes.
Rick Hoffman- I speak in favor of this motion. This referral keeps coming to this committee over and over. We need to address it.
Greg Maron- I speak in favor of this motion
Mark Keaser – I speak in favor of this motion. It actually will help the chips and lit guy or the chip chick to find the right chip.
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Leon Mason – I speak against the motion – I think the colors are fine but I like that the black chip means you got a year or more.
Paulette Furoy- I speak in favor of this motion. I trust the WSO to choose the color. CA does have colors, green and white Perhaps that would be a better colors.
Point of Order– Speaker is drifting
John Baron – I speak against the motion
Freeman Houston- motion to call the question
Second
Motion passes
Motion to authorize WSO to pick color(s) for the chips for lengths of sobriety of 18 months and greater as they see fit.
Motion fails with substantial unanimity
ADDITIONAL MOTIONS:
The following items are based on referrals that have been in committee from previous years and/or the results of the 2001-2002 Book Survey.
Regarding 12 Step Guide/Workbook
Motion to approve the concept of a 12 Step Workbook.
Second
Speak in favor of the motion this is to approve the concept only
Ginger Lane- Speaks against the motion. I believe it is the wrong way to go
Diane Wabich- I speak against this motion and I believe this is not the way this fellowship should go.
Bryan Bell- I speak against the motion.
Candi Hall- I speak against the motion.
Rick Hoffman-
Kevin Murphy Point of Order
Rick Hoffman- I make a motion to postpone this motion until the next World Service Conference.
Second
Rick Hoffman – In the interest of time I urge this body to put this off until we have time to look at this motion fully.
Kevin Murphy – I speak against the motion
Jennifer Jaques- I speak against the motion. I want to hear from more members about the main motion
John Whittaker- Call the question
Second
Motion Passes
Main Motion Passes 51- 34
Shane Merck- Minority Opinion –
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Scot Botz – Point of Order – How can you be in the minority opinion of you did not have a vote?
Chair- we do give leniency to this
Shane Merck – Minority Opinion-
Leon Mason- Minority Opinion – All we are discussing is the concept. We keep killing the ideas based on our own personal opinion.
Sherri Hoffman- Parliamentary Inquiry – A motion to postpone was not our motion to bring this to the next conference
Chair Yes
Request for “CA 12 x 12”
Motion to approve the concept of a CA Steps and Traditions book based on CA’s experience with no committee work to be done other than the collection of material until after January 1, 2007.
Second
Kevin Murphy – Speaks in favor of the motion – We are just asking you to allow us to collect information for a concept.
Parliamentary Inquiry –
Jahi Boseda. In the previous motion it said Main motion has passed that is not correct.
Agreed & changed.
Terry Marsden- Where does your committee stand our your book survey?
Sherri Hoffman – We have one member who would contest that this is from a biggest
Ginger Lane- I speak against this motion – I don’t think we need to supplement the 12 X12
Evan Anderson- I speak in favor of this motion – It is only the 3rd point of the process. Kevin’s point is very important. I don’t know how I will feel, but they are only asking to explore this idea. There is much Valid recovery ideas in this fellowship. Bill Wilson wrote the BB and the 12 X12 at 3 and ½ years sober. If this is the only way, then why do so many people ask for help?
Pilar – I speak in favor of this motion. I was asked by my Area to bring this to this body.
Bryan Bell – I am against this motion. I believe the AA books are good enough. We have our experience in a Book its called HF and C
Cynthia Cronkite- I speak in favor of this motion. It is our function of our fellowship to aid our membership in providing literature that it needs. I personally I feel if we do not go forward with this, we hamper our ability to grow.
Candy Hall – Point of Information– would this new 12 x 12
Chair- This is about a concept, not really about actual content.
Rick Hoffman- Speak for the motion.
Alan Seigell- I speak in favor of motion – It is the idea here, which is good.
Who is John Barleycorn?
Freeman Houston- speaks in favor of the motion.
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Steve Mackey- speaks against the motion. The message that AA came up with a long time ago works.
Lynn Holloman speaks against the motion out literature says that we use 12 steps because it has been proven that the AA program works
Greg B. speaks in favor of the motion.
Jennifer S – speaks in favor of the motion.
Bryan Seid not sure what side he speaks for.
Sean – speaks in favor of the motion.
Scott Linard- In favor of the Motion – We realize we know only just a little.
Contempt Prior to Investigation- all we want to do is investigate
Karl Urbach – In favor of the Motion
Matt Reilly- Speak Against this motion
Max Greegan- Motion to Call the Question
Second
Motion Passes with minor opposition
Motion to approve the concept of a CA Steps and Traditions book based on CA’s experience with no committee work to be done other than the collection of material until after January 1, 2007.
Motion Passes with noted opposition
REFERRALS OR ITEMS TABLED UNTIL NEXT YEAR; AND ITEMS THE COMMITTEE WILL CONTINUE WORKING ON THROUGH THE YEAR:
New CA Storybook: Sub-committee is currently in process of collecting and reviewing stories, selecting structure and preparing format for the new storybook. See attached LCF TIMELINE. Point 4.
Referral #2043: Revision of pamphlet “CHOOSING YOUR SPONSOR” – Point 4
Pamphlet “Having Fun in Sobriety – We Are Not a Glum Lot”– in subcommittee at Point 4.
Referral #1995 – Including Unity Committee in 12 Point Literature Approval Process – 12 Point Literature Approval process is at Point 4
Pamphlet “Guide to the 12 Traditions” – is at Point 4 and will remain in process throughout the year.
Referrals #3186, 3217 – Revisions to “We Can Recover” Will be worked on throughout the year. Point 4
Referral #3217 – Revisions to Meeting Formats. Work in progress – Point 4.
Referral #3540 – Referred to subcommittee with the following recommendation: in our suggested format where the meeting is opened for sharing, insert some text that asks participant to state name and nature of addiction.
Referrals #1916, 1919, 2661, 2713): Revision to 12 Point Literature Approval Process. The subcommittee is working to reduce it to 8 Points. Currently at Point 4.
Pamphlet “Anonymity” – drafts in progress. Point 4.
Pamphlet “70/30” – drafts in progress. Point 4.
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Referral #3515 and #1605 (2002) – New literature for 12 Principles. Passed as concept in 2002; drafts are in progress and will be worked on in subcommittee. Point 4.
Revision “Tips for Staying Clean and Sober”: Moved to point 7 in the 12 point process.
Referral #2716 (2002): Revise “Suggestions for Relapse Prevention & Recovery”. In sub-commmittee at Point 4.
Referral #1728: Widespread review of literature in regard to phrase “And All Other Mind Altering Substances”. Meeting formats and current pamphlets are being reviewed with this phrase in mind. Point 4.
REFERRALS OR ITEMS REFERRED TO OTHER COMMITTEES, WORLD SERVICE OFFICE OR BOARD OF TRUSTEES:
#2785 – To review the literature approval process of other fellowships. Referred to WSO because this research is outside the scope of the purpose of this Committee, and can be better performed by the WSO.
#3145 – Design and make available for purchase a very fancy chip. Referred to WSO for cost analysis.
#3595 – Cap on individual donation amounts. Referred to Finance Committee because this is not a Literature, Chips and Formats Committee issue.
#3681 – Large print Hope, Faith and Courage book. Referred to WSO because it is within their scope to make specific decisions regarding distribution of Conference approved literature.
#3516 – Please write a statement to endorse the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous as CA’s basic text. Referred to the Board of Trustees with a copy of article reprinted in Third Quarter 2000 Newsgram, pg. 6, entitled “CA and the AA Big Book,” by Craig H., Chicago, IL (Attachment E) and suggestion to research minutes from 2nd and 1989 Conferences.
REFERRALS THAT DID NOT RESULT IN MOTIONS:
#2521 – Start ad hoc book committee to work on future books. Our New Book Materials Sub-committee is collecting material for future books, and we welcome assistance from interested members. Ad hoc committees will be formed as needed for specific book projects.
#2523 – Review new Storybook content. We have extended the deadline for Storybook submissions (see flyer attached) in an effort to provide the best possible content.
#2524 – Ask Fellowship to submit more stories for Storybook. We have extended the deadline for Storybook submissions (see flyer attached) in an effort to provide the best possible content.
#3644 – Approve Anonymous Press version of first 164 pages of Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous as CA approved literature. No action taken. We feel this would be inappropriate for a number of reasons.
#3684 – Request to clarify appropriate verbiage for closing of CA meetings as “Keep coming back,” or “Stay.’ No action taken, citing Tradition 4.
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#3103 – Request for new literature for teens/children of addicts regarding disease of cocaine/crack addiction. No action taken on this referral as it addresses outside issues. (Co-Anon)
#3578 – Concentrate on reviewing existing literature over developing new literature and review all literature regularly. The Literature, Chips and Formats Committee receives many requests from the Fellowship, which we have to balance. We are currently reviewing several older pieces as well as several new concepts requested by the Conference. We are taking no specific action in response to this referral.
Referral #2980 – Request for simplified 12 Concept piece. At this time we feel that the creation of such a piece would not be a good use of LCF time. No action taken.
COMMITTEE STRUCTURE AS OF THIS CONFERENCE:
Chair – Sherri Hoffman (serving 1 more year) Vice-Chair – Scott Keaveny (beginning a 2 year term), Secretary – Judy Weissman (beginning a 1 year term), Alternate Secretary – David McQuaig (beginning a 1 year term), Storybook Sub-Committee Chair – Susan Doch.
CLOSING COMMENTS:
As LCF Chair, I commend this fine group of members for their diligent service to this committee. Our meetings have been dynamic, often raucous. We are a diverse and passionate group of people who love Cocaine Anonymous. The manifestation of a higher power occurs as we engage in committee debate, perhaps even strenuously, working to fine tune the message of our literature, and in the end, walk away in the spirit of fellowship. I encourage any member of CA to join us. We will be meeting regularly throughout the next year and welcome any and all participation from our fellowship.
Thank you for allowing me to serve.
Gratefully submitted, Sherri Hoffman – LCF Chair 2002-2004
lcf@ca.org
Suzanne – I want to know what happened with the unity motion?
Chair – It passes