Approved Minutes
WSBT 2nd Quarterly Meeting 2021
Friday, May 28st 8am – 4pm PDT
Saturday, May 29nd 7am – 3pm PDT
Sunday May, 30rd 7am – 3pm PDT
London, 3:00 & 4:00 pm
Eastern, 10:00 & 11:00 am
Central, 9:00 & 10:00 am
Mountain, 8:00 & 9:00 am
Pacific, 7:00 & 8:00 am
Via Video Conferencing Using Zoom Platform
Meeting Details Below
First Day
Part I
Topic: WSBT 2nd Quarterly Conference Call
Time: May 28, 2021 08:00 ARE Pacific Time (US and Canada)
Meeting ID: 854 2813 2760
Passcode: 302895
First Day
Part 2
Topic: WSBT 2nd Quarterly Conference Call
Time: May 28, 2021 01:00 PM Pacific Time (US and Canada)
Meeting ID: 828 3726 2853
Passcode: 394349
Second Day
Part I
Topic: WSBT 2nd Quarterly Conference Call
Time: May 29, 2021 07:00 ARE Pacific Time (US and Canada)
Meeting ID: 868 3091 6299
Passcode: 449538
Page 1 of 196
Second Day
Part 2
Topic: WSBT 2nd Quarterly Conference Call
Time: May 29, 2021 12:00 PM Pacific Time (US and Canada)
Meeting ID: 879 4800 9296
Passcode: 761830
Third Day
Part 1
Topic: WSBT Conference Call
Time: May 30, 2021 07:00 ARE Pacific Time (US and Canada)
Meeting ID: 858 1819 3981
Passcode: 631260
Third Day
Part 2
Topic: WSBT Conference Call
Time: May 30, 2021 12:00 PM Pacific Time (US and Canada)
Meeting ID: 832 2842 2327
Passcode: 798162
Moment of silence followed by the “WE” version of the Serenity Prayer.
Personal Sharing (3-5 Minutes)
Roll Call:
Kevin Murphy WSOT-present
Sarah Taylor ERT-present
Kerry Wesley SWRT/WSBT Asst. Secretary-present
Clay Plummer MWRT/ WSBT Secretary-present
Tom Phelan PSRT/WST-present
Wade Staples PNRT-present
Jason Laurence TAL1/MERT/WSBT-Vice Chair-present
George Mooney ANRT/ASRT/WSBT-Chair-present
Readings
Reading of Twelve Traditions (George)
Tradition 5 & Discuss (Tom)
-The organizing element around which unity is achieved.
Problems with a group probably mean they are off in terms of this tradition.
Concept 5 & Discuss (Kerry)
Page 2 of 196
–Minority performing a service of continuing debate and keeping us informed of the other side of an argument
-If properly used, information not brought up in debate can be brought up in a fifth concept statement and change the opinion of the debate.
-Everyone should leave the room with a chance of being heard.
Chair’s Opening Remarks (George)
Welcome to our Q2 Quarterly, as I’ve said previously, I’m truly humbled and grateful by your tireless efforts. It has been an extremely busy Quarter by all accounts. During the past 18 months we have had to work on many issues, most of which have been a bit contentious. The Board has had many different opinions on some of these issues but in the end a consensus was achieved. It shows God is at work amongst us. Many thanks to my Vice-Chair Jason and our Secretary Clay for their assistance during the past quarter. I’m going to keep this brief as we have a very busy agenda and with a few super pressing issues. Again, this Board has had to contend with issues these past months that no other Board has had to. My heartfelt thanks to you all, your dedication to our Fellowship in my estimation is unparalleled.
Humbly Submitted,
George Mooney
ANRT/WSBT-Chair
WSBT Officer’s Reports (see attachment A)
Chair (George)
Vice-Chair (Jason)
-New WSOB Chair more flexible with translations for new Areas.
Secretary (Clay)
Assistant Secretary (Kerry)
Motion to accept Officer’s Reports made and seconded, passed unanimously.
Trustee Reports
(See attachment B)
Atlantic North Regional Trustee (George)
Atlantic South Regional Trustee (George)
-A Florida delegate resigned.
Midwest Regional Trustee (Clay)
-MWRC in St. Louis, Missouri October 29-31, 2021
Page 3 of 196
Pacific North Regional Trustee (Wade)
-PNRC in Salt Lake City, Utah in April of 2022
Pacific South Regional Trustee (Tom)
Southwest Regional Trustee (Kerry)
– Is there a Unity issue with the Southern Colorado Area? The Regional Trustee feels love and tolerance is important and an olive branch should be extended for them to accept when ready.
European Regional Trustee (Sarah)
-Heat map is more of a meeting finder
Mainland Europe Region (Jason)
-When should an Area petition to become an Area? what number of meetings? Right of participation is important. It was stated that they should act like one first then become one.
-Should there be a probationary period to prove the responsibilities are being fulfilled?
-Debate ensued about SR-14 and what should and should not be included in mailing. Should referrals be included in this mailing was questioned. (Item added to New Business)
Trustee at Large 1 (Jason)
-Where should China go as a potential Area?
-Should TAL be responsible for potential regions before they become one, Areas should be given the choice over what region to join when forming. Will be looked at in LTP Regional Restructuring project.
-In spirit of unity, new Areas should be working together to form region before region is formed.
World Service Trustee Report (Tom)
World Service Office Trustee Report (Kevin)
-Questions asked about reports from board members
Motion to accept Trustee Reports made and seconded passed unanimously.
WSBT Subcommittee Reports – lead member listed first (see attachment C)
Finance (Kerry/All)
-Office doing well. Question as to why so much in Operating Account. Upcoming variables are determinant of what is in account. Requirements of the Conference are a determinant.
Page 4 of 196
Legal (Tom/Kevin)
-Question to attorney, what is our exposure if we ship items with trademarks to areas where we do not have trademark registered?
-Question came up as of cost to ask and it was stated questions like this are usually dealt with informally.
NewsGram (George)
-The Board will receive the new edition by June 4th.
Next topic is the 12 Concepts.
TEC (Wade/Sarah)
-Have received costs of potential hubs if needed
-Question as to why hubs and it was stated to maintain the integrity of the process if the entire TEC cannot meet together.
-Past Trustee has shared with members of WSBT that WSBT just approve slate if comes to a no Conference decision.
Long-term Planning (Jason/Clay/All)
-Guidelines Committee is looking at the processes of the LTP Subcommittee.
Orientation (Wade/Jason/All)
-Documents still being looked at and after this Quarterly work will begin.
International Structure and Development (Sarah/Tom Wade, Kevin, Jason)
-International banking issue being looked at with current Bank of America representatives.
TNC (Tom/Sarah/Jason/Kerry)
Trustee Outreach (George/Jason)
-meeting took place with WSOB and Conference Committee regarding Conference.
-Reached out to WSC Chair in regards to ASR including English speaking Caribbean.
World Service Conference (Kevin/George)
-Need to look at contracts for 2024 and 2025 that have been submitted by Director of Conferences and Conventions.
– Reason for this subcommittee is for the WSBT to have oversight of what is happening in terms of bids for Conference.
External Communications (Jason/Kevin) (Committee currently on hold)
-Received an inquiry for a response for an article.
-We should still respond and apologize for a late response due to our processes.
– The inquiries about how Covid has affected the fellowship and the evolving future of an online world.
Motion to accept Subcommittee reports made and seconded passed unanimously.
Page 5 of 196
Trustee Conference Committee Reports – lead member listed first (see Attachment D)
Conference (Kevin/Clay)
–Conference Discussion Items / Agenda
For WSBT Q2 meeting
These items have been compiled from our recent ongoing conversations and submissions from individual Board members, to provide a framework for our quarterly meeting discussion.
General
1. What quality of WSC do we hope to achieve, content, agenda? (ST)
a. Should we restrict hybrid to those who have to be hybrid?
b. Scope should be4 as close to as possible as a normal Conference, but giving the Chair option to make changes as necessary.
2. Add to this that the Conference Chair will want considerable input on the agenda, as per his prerogatives. (KM)
3. What will the cost be to fellowship, need to look at all option? (ST)
a. $71500 is the cost to cancel with hotel now
b. $62400 roughly budgeted for Conference (lessened by revenue) to $25800
4. We will hold a physical Conference at the Sheraton Gateway in Los Angeles, beginning Sept 1st. (KM)
Motion that we hold a physical Conference at the Sheraton Gateway beginning September 1, 2021, made and seconded, passed 6-1.
Motion to call the question, made and seconded, passed unanimously.
–Aspects of contract and well-being of membership should be considered.
–$11600 to cancel with hotel ($71500) and $4500 for a virtual (highest number)
-We estimate that 80% of fellowship will be able to attend.
–Face to face cheapest, face to face and hybrid in the middle and virtual (with hotel cancelation fee) most expensive.
5. SR-17. Agenda of World Service Conference (JL)
a. Delegates are to submit proposed agenda items 120 days prior to each Conference.
b. Agenda is to be distributed to all Delegates and interested parties at least 60 days prior to the Conference.
Page 6 of 196
c. Each agenda is to contain the following items:
i. Serenity Prayer
ii. We Can Recover
iii. Twelve Traditions
iv. Roll call
v. Approval of minutes
vi. Trustee’s report
vii. Officer’s report
viii. Committee reports (all Conference Committees)
ix. Trustee Nominee Ratification/Approval
x. Old business
xi. New business
xii. Elections as needed
xiii. Election of next Conference Officers as necessary
xiv. Selection of next Conference location
xv. Closing prayer
-Will need more time on floor to deal with Conference Committees’ work of the last two years
-Question as to why a hybrid would cost so much
Hotel
1. Good conversation with sales manager at the hotel. As for cancellation the hotel has adopted the position that for all events after June 15, cancellations will be subject to full cancellation charges. As for Wi-Fi and hardwiring concerns, their technical team has developed a comprehensive plan. I suggested that if we choose to move forward, I will connect the appropriate people from CAWSO with their technical staff in order to work out logistics and develop cost estimates. (TP)
-Hotel will work with us
-Still have an option for a force majeure is things get out of hand again
2. Cancellation penalties? (ST)
3. Criteria for force majeure cancellation and conversion to virtual and/or postponement. (KM)
-
- California reinstitutes significant restrictions.
- Travel from UK & Canada is still severely curtailed August 1 (?).
- Quarantine issues, on arrival or return remain significant.
4. How many rooms would we need? (ST)
-70% room attrition rate to be asked for
5. Are we as a board willing to share rooms? (ST)
Page 7 of 196
6. How would this effect the current contract? (ST)
7. Renegotiation of new contact with greatly reduced F&B? (ST)
70% of current F&B amount to still get concessions
8. Should we as a board be asking for a completely new contract e.g. 50 % of what it is presently? (ST)
-Not an option
Safety / Duty of Care
1. Ethically do we as a board have a responsibility of making such decision of putting such a large number of members together in a room at such unknown times, some of tested, some members are not. Do we have the right to question people? (ST)
-We should follow guidance of public health officials for large events at time of event
-Larger event space to allow for spacing
-Possibly have tests available to test if wanted
-We have an essential duty of care
-Providing hand sanitizer and wipes
-Should follow local laws and ordinances
-We cannot impose anything on anyone but we should take the basic precautions
-Masks, flow tests, sanitizer, and temperature taking
2. One topic we should discuss is what our level of precaution will be? I think at the minimum we should request that unvaccinated delegates wear face coverings. We should also suggest to those entering the US that having a vaccination proof would be helpful. (KM)
3. Tom, did you happen to discuss the hotel’s policies regarding Covid precautions? For employees? For guests? Do they require or request vaccinations of employees? (KM)
4. If groups would like to require masks, proof of vaccinations or negative COVID tests, the hotel will assist in accommodating the requirements. (TP)
5. We will not require vaccine or Covid proofs, except for those with symptoms? (KM)
6. We will ask that all unvaccinated persons wear a mask in any common area. Masks will be provided. (KM)
7. We will set aside an area in the ballroom for those who ask for social distancing. (KM)
8. Certain medical conditions make the vaccine less effective. (KM)
Page 8 of 196
9. Excerpt from C.A. Germany Area Report. With regards to the decision between a face-to-face or an online conference, it greatly concerns us to think contractual considerations may take precedence over health considerations. Nobody should feel obliged to physically attend a large-scale event while we are still in the pandemic–while people are still tele-working, countries are still in lockdown, and herd immunity has not been reached globally. (JL)
Hybrid Option
1. Do we have to guarantee that those attending virtually have the same level of participation as on-site members? Is this even possible (apples/oranges)? Is it even a necessary goal? (KM)
2. Form (KM)
- One-way
- One-way + proxies
- One-way Plus (backchannel voting over internet)
- One-way Plus (use internet voting system exclusively, replacing clickers)
- Two-way full hybrid
3. Criteria for hybrid participation (KM)
- On demand
- On approval
- Due to proven inability to travel
For items 1, 2 and 3
-Full participation should be afforded
-Should be able to see chair, speakers and commentary on screen
-We believe we should allow full participation.
-Conscience of fellowship has been to have a physical Conference and hybrid is only because of the emergency situation of Covid.
-Need to remind fellowship of the contract with Hotel.
-Consensus is that we are going to do as close to a full hybrid as possible and will have a virtual breakout session, will charge a defrayed fee, and will have a criteria for attending virtually.
4. What would the hours of WSC be, should we still be doing 5 day? (ST)
-Will keep to same number of days and times
-5 days, 12 hours a day but we realize this will incur a production cost
-We need to state our preferences and give Conference Committee clear direction
-May want to have 8 hour conference sessions and breakouts outside of 8 hour period
Should get an escape clause with Production Company in case things get much better.
Page 9 of 196
5. The Conference Committee will want to have direct input on facilities requirements. If we go hybrid. (KM)
6. What would the consequence of hosting a hybrid Conference be? (ST)
7. Can we say who can do hybrid and who cannot? (ST)
8. If the quarantine time changes in certain areas prior to conference will these members be allowed to be part of the hybrid? (ST)
9.How many days would a hybrid last? (ST)
10. Current contract with additional hybrid cost? (ST)
11. Would Face 2 Face attendance be affected? (ST)
12. Fees (KM)
- To defray costs (offset additional expenditure)
- To deter casual use
13. Cost issues – No determination can be made without criteria being established. (KM)
-$250 fee contingent on input from the Conference Committee.
Big Decision Alternatives
- Virtual conference only? (ST)
- No conference at all? (ST)
Public Information (George/Clay)
-Problems in using pi.ca.org to receive materials, there is a long wait time usually.
Hospitals & Institutions (Wade/Kerry)
Literature, Chips & Formats (Clay/Jason)
-12×12 does not have lead and member of the WSBT has interest, but it was suggested that it would be a conflict while a Trustee.
-PI should not have to create a process for approving literature, no value in them doing this.
-End running of the process by PI should be discouraged for the traditional LCF process is in place
Structure & Bylaws (Jason, Sarah)
-Copying and pasting of documents with strikethrough and formatting info in a new document is concerning
Page 10 of 196
Convention (Sarah/George)
Archive (Tom/Wade)
Unity (Tom, Kerry)
-Waiting to hear from WSBT regarding Conference to know what they will need to do at Conference.
Finance (Kerry, Jason)
-Budget being developed
May need to be adjusted again due to Conference decision
Information Technologies (Kevin/George)
–Will not have an SR-14 pack. In need of bodies and may be looking for funds to develop items.
-The WSBT needs a more information on what will be needed for app development
-Can a line item be added to Budget for app development?
-Need to submit in budget how much they need
-Chair feels there needs to be more collaboration between Conference Committees.
-Having Chairs and vice chairs meet quarterly
-Either contacting chairs informally or request to WSBT to facilitate.
Motion to approve Conference Committee Reports made and seconded passed unanimously
CAWS Convention updates (see Attachment E)
- CAWS 2022 (Kerry)
- Committee will begin meeting soon and is hoping Convention date will not be moved again
- CAWS 2023 (George)
- No report, Chair dealing with some medical concerns.
- CAWS 2024 (Jason)
- Two meetings about hotel contract have taken place but Director of Conferences and Conventions has not attended either. Concerns with contract that those on site will have to have lunch with hotel. Nowhere to eat near hotel and regional Trustee has red flagged this to hotel liaison. F&B commitment is a concern. This is all in RFP, no restaurants near hotel to eat at.
- Questions were raised as to if the proposed hotel meets our needs. The isolation of hotel is a concern.
Motion to approve CAWS Convention reports made and seconded passed unanimously.
Place Marker – Business Items (To remain on agenda for quarterly review.)
Page 11 of 196
- Copyright and Trademark Protection
Matter No. Country Mark Renewal Due:
59628-0001 Canada WE’RE HERE AND WE’RE FREE September 30, 2027
59628-0002 U.S. COCAINE ANONYMOUS September 4, 2030
59628-0003 Canada COCAINE ANONYMOUS December 13, 2021
59628-0004 U.S. CA December 20, 2028
59628-0005 Canada CA June 12, 2022
59628-0006 U.S. CA HOPE FAITH COURAGE (logo) April 24, 2030
59628-0007 Canada CA HOPE FAITH COURAGE (logo) August 9, 2021
59628-0008 U.S. WE’RE HERE AND WE’RE FREE April 2, 2026
59628-0009 Europe COCAINE ANONYMOUS April 1, 2026
59628-0010 Europe CA HOPE FAITH COURAGE (logo) July 26, 2026
59628-0011 Europe CA November 15, 2021
59628-0012 South Africa COCAINE ANONYMOUS ?
59628-0013 South Africa CA June 30, 2027
59628-0014 South Africa CA HOPE FAITH COURAGE (logo) June 30, 2027
NOTE: U.S. 59628-0002 was renewed for 10 years.
Canada markers are in process and U.K. will be different from Europe in the future.
- Signature of annual corporate documents, to be completed @ at Winter Quarterly.
- Referral Tracker
- Wade S. has done considerable work on spread sheet of what referrals are open and which have been closed.
- Long Term Planning
MARKER – WSBT LONG TERM PLANNING (see attachment F)
Items for discussion at the 2021 Q2 WSBT meeting.
- Motion: That the draft of the Service Sponsorship Pamphlet be referred the WSC Literature Chips & Formats Committee for their consideration as a new Conference approved pamphlet project.
Made and seconded passed unanimously.
Please see C.A. LTP 2019/19 project group report including the pamphlet draft.
- Motion: That the ‘Uniform File Naming Conventions Guidelines’ be referred the WSC Archives Committee for inclusion in their committee guidelines.
Page 12 of 196
Made and seconded passed unanimously.
-Should a style guideline be created to include this and branding guide?
Please see C.A. LTP 2019/34 project group report including the ‘Uniform File Naming Conventions Guidelines.’
- Motion: That the C.A. LTP project 2020/01 ‘Online Service Structure’ be removed from the projects chart.
Made and seconded passed unanimously.
A referral has been made to the WSC Structure & Bylaws Committee for the formation of a ‘WSC Online Services Committee’ and they have set up a subcommittee to address. I therefore believe we no longer need to look at this.
- Motion: That the Board approve the language of ‘Branding Guidelines’ motion to be included in the WSBT SR14 submission pack.
Made and seconded passed unanimously.
Please see draft language and ‘Branding Guidelines’ and ‘Reasoning’ documents.
- Motion : That the C.A. LTP project 2019/32 ‘Attracting members to Conference Committees’ be removed from the C.A. LTP projects chart and be moved to the WSBT projects chart for Board consideration.
Made and seconded passed unanimously.
The work on this project has been completed, with a report being made to the C.A. LTP Main Committee. The Committee voted to pass on the report, which contains suggestions, to the WSBT for its consideration. Please see a copy of the project group report.
- Motion: That the idea of ‘Regional Empowerment’ be revisited as ‘Regional Cooperation’ to find a way for Regions to facilitate projects such as literature fulfilment, helpline coordination and Regional website landing pages etc.
Friendly Amendment that Regional Empowerment is revisited on WSBT LTP Project Chart as Regional Cooperation.
Made and seconded passed 6-1.
-Do not need to move forward with Regional Empowerment but need to move more towards Regional Cooperation. This is because WSO needs assistance from Areas for Regions to work together.
-Item being put back on chart for discussion purposes.
It has become apparent that there will of necessity need to be some form of minimal service structure at regional level to administer joint projects and coordinate efforts to that end with the World Service Office.
Should we schedule an LTP Meeting with fellowship like held at World Convention?
- Status of World Service Office
- Has found new printer for books.
- Questions as to if taxes have been filed and search status for new CPA.
Page 13 of 196
-
-
- Should a member of WSBT sign off on taxes being done
- Translations of materials will require Areas to find proof readers.
- Question as to a system by which Areas , Districts, and groups get literature
-
-Motion to put on WSBT LTP Chart a policy for our use of literature, made and seconded passed unanimously.
-Motion to add marker to minutes to address filing of taxes at our Q1 meeting, made and seconded passed unanimously.
-Add an agenda item to look at WSOB Chair, DOO, and Treasurer Reports after CAWSO reports.
- Trustee Election Committee
- 16 candidates
- All TEC Delegates and candidates to be contacted regarding Conference decision.
- Financial Overview
- Questions arose as to why 7th Tradition included in revenue
Old Business Items
- Review of outstanding responses (inquiries). (Kerry)
- Review of WSOB Tracking Document (Kevin/George)
- Outstanding Issues with Attorney (Tom)
- Conference discussion (See separate agenda) (All)
- Force Majeure option with C-Vent regarding registration service for conventions and Conference. (Tom)
- In process, have been billed $8000 and we contested the bill because services were not performed.
- 12 Step Companion Guide Review. Motion to approve (Clay)
Motion to approve the revised “12 Step Companion Guide” draft presented to us by the LCF Committee made and seconded passed unanimously.
- European Fulfillment Centre (Sarah)
- WSOB Project Tracker (Kevin, Brenda, Lolita) Chair and DOO invited to call.
- Financial guidelines update (Kerry)
- WSBT SR14 Pack (motions in response to referrals 2019/02 & 03 / Branding Guidelines) (Jason)
Revision to Conference Charter Article 3 and procedure for asking consent of the Groups for change in Article 10 of the Charter or in the Twelve Traditions of C.A., or in the Twelve Steps of C.A.
Motions are in response to the following referrals:
WSBT 2019-2 Referral forwarded from S&B – S&B number is 2017-15 Referral Subject: To develop a process to change Article 10 of Conference Charter, one of the 12 Steps or 12 Traditions.
Page 14 of 196
WSBT 2019-3 Referral forwarded from S&B – S&B number is 2018-13 Referral: To develop a process to change Article 10 of Conference Charter, one of the 12 Steps or 12 Traditions and clarification of ¾ of the groups.
Motion 1: Change Conference Charter Article 3 to include AA’s later* clarification, made and seconded passed unanimously.
- Conference Relation to C.A.: The Conference will act for C.A. in the perpetuation and guidance of its world services and it will also be the vehicle by which the C.A. movement can express its view upon all matters of vital C.A. policy and all hazardous deviations from C.A. Tradition. Delegates should be free to vote as their conscience dictates; they should also be free to decide what questions should be taken to the Group level, whether for information, discussion, or their own direct instruction.
But no change in Article 10 of the Charter or in the Twelve Traditions of C.A., or in the Twelve Steps of C.A. may be made with less than the written consent of three-quarters of the C.A. Groups. Except by first asking the consent of the known C.A. Groups of the world. [This would include all C.A. Groups known to the recognized Areas around the world.] These Groups shall be suitably notified of any proposal for change and shall be allowed no less than six months for consideration thereof. And before any such Conference action can be taken, there must first be received in writing within the time allotted the consent of at least three-fourths of all those Groups who respond to such a proposal (not counting abstentions).
* See AA World Service Manual, 2018-2020 edition, Appendix B, page 104
(see highlighted section of copy below)
Motion 2: Adopt the following procedure for polling the Groups of C.A. to make any changes defined in Article 3 of the C.A. Conference Charter, to be placed in the WSM following “Referrals,” made and seconded passed unanimously.
Procedure for change in Article 10 of the Charter or in the Twelve Traditions of C.A., or in the Twelve Steps of C.A.
- Upon authorization by a 2/3rds vote of the World Service Conference (WSC), the Structure and Bylaws Committee (S&B) shall prepare a ballot describing any such change to the 12 Traditions of C.A., the 12 Steps of C.A. or Article 10 of the Charter, along with such arguments for and against that it deems proper, along with instructions for Areas and Groups, and present these to the World Service Board of Trustees (WSBT).
- The WSBT will review this material and may return it to S&B for revision.
- Upon WSBT approval, the ballot question and all related materials will be submitted to the next WSC for final approval by a 2/3rds vote. This submittal must conform to the Standing Rules of the WSC.
- Upon WSC approval, the ballots will be disseminated by a Delegate mailing from the World Service Office (WSO) to all known Areas in such a time and
Page 15 of 196
manner that every Group therein could expect to have 6 months to consider the requested changes.
- Groups not yet within an Area, but known to the WSO, shall be sent a ballot directly.
- Areas (or Districts) shall disseminate a ballot to each and every Group therein, previously validating each ballot with the Area Chair’s signature.
- Groups shall return their ballots as per the instructions provided.
- Upon the conclusion of the voting period, the WSO will tabulate the votes, resolve any ballot defects by contacting the Area’s Delegates or Chair, and report the vote totals, along with the estimated Group response rate, to the WSC S&B Committee and the WSBT. Abstentions received do not affect the percentages for and against but are reported in the response rate.
- Should 3/4ths of the ballots returned, not counting Abstentions, be in the affirmative, the question, along with the vote counts and estimated percentage the Groups responding will be presented to the WSC for final approval. The WSC may, but is not required to, consider the percentage response rate in its deliberations.
- A final 2/3rd ratification vote by the WSC causes the change to be put into effect.
AA World Service Manual, 2018-2020 edition, Appendix B
A Resolution
Offered by Bill W. and Adopted at the 20th Anniversary Convention of A.A., in 1955.
(This Resolution Authorizes the General Service Conference
to Act for Alcoholics Anonymous
and to Become the Successor to Its Co-Founders.)
We, the members of the Twentieth Anniversary Convention of Alcoholics Anonymous, here assembled at St. Louis in July of the year 1955, declare our belief that our Fellowship has now come of age and is entirely ready to assume full and permanent possession of the Three Legacies of our A.A. inheritance — the Legacies of Recovery, Unity and Service.
We believe that the General Service Conference of Alcoholics Anonymous, as created in 1951 by our co-founders, Doctor Bob S. and Bill W., and authorized by trustees of the Alcoholic Foundation, has now become entirely capable of assuming the guardianship of A.A.’s Twelve Traditions and of taking over full guidance and control of the world service of our Society, as provided in the “Third Legacy Manual of World Service”¹ recently revised by our surviving co-founder, Bill W.,² and of the General Service Board of Alcoholics Anonymous.
We have also heard with approval Bill W.’s proposal that A.A.’s General Service Conference should now become the permanent successor to the founders of Alcoholics Anonymous, inheriting from them all their former duties and special responsibilities, thus avoiding in future time all possible strivings for individual prestige or personal power; and also providing our Society with the means of functioning on a permanent basis.
Page 16 of 196
BE IT THEREFORE RESOLVED: That the General Service Conference of Alcoholics Anonymous should become, as of this date, July 3, 1955, the guardian of the Traditions of Alcoholics Anonymous, the perpetuators of the world services of our Society, the voice of the group conscience of our entire Fellowship, and the sole successors of its co-founders, Doctor Bob and Bill.
¹ Now called The A.A. Service Manual.
² Bill died January 24, 1971.
103
AND IT IS UNDERSTOOD: That neither the Twelve Traditions of Alcoholics Anonymous nor the warranties of Article XII of the Conference Charter shall ever be changed or amended by the General Service Conference except by first asking the consent of the registered A.A. groups of the world. [This would include all A.A. groups known to the general service offices around the world.]³ These groups shall be suitably notified of any proposal for change and shall be allowed no less than six months for consideration thereof. And before any such Conference action can be taken, there must first be received in writing within the time allotted the consent of at least three-quarters of all those registered groups who respond to such proposal.⁴
WE FURTHER UNDERSTAND: That, as provided in Article XII of the Conference Charter, the Conference binds itself to the Society of Alcoholics Anonymous by the following means: That in all its proceedings, the General Service Conference shall observe the spirit of the A.A. Tradition, taking great care that the Conference never becomes the seat of perilous wealth or power; that sufficient operating funds, plus an ample reserve, be its prudent financial principle; that none of the Conference members shall ever be placed in a position of unqualified authority over any of the others; that all important decisions be reached by discussion, vote and, whenever possible, by substantial unanimity; that no Conference action ever be personally punitive, or an incitement to public controversy; that though the Conference may act in the service of Alcoholics Anonymous and may traditionally direct its world services, it shall never enact laws or regulations binding on A.A. as a whole or upon any A.A. group or member thereof, nor shall it perform any other such acts of government; and that, like the Society of Alcoholics Anonymous which it serves, the Conference itself will always remain democratic in thought and action. (This Resolution was adopted by the Convention by acclamation and, in the Conference, by formal resolution by vote.)
St. Louis, Missouri, July 3, 1955
³ Resolution: It was resolved by the 1976 General Service Conference that those instruments requiring consent of three-quarters of the responding groups for change or amendment would include the Twelve Steps of A.A., should any such change or amendment ever be proposed.
⁴ Bill uses the term “registered.” A.A.W.S. neither monitors nor oversees the activities or practices of any A.A. group. Groups are listed solely for purposes of accurate communications.
Page 17 of 196
104
- 11. Motion to approve C.A. World Conference SR-14 pack, made and seconded passed unanimously.
- Atlantic South Region to include English speaking Caribbean – Petition (George/Jason)
Motion that we send a referral to WSC S&B Committee to address the process for revising the boundaries of an existing region, made and seconded passed unanimously.
New Business Items
1. Preliminary budget for 2022 (Kerry)
a. Dealt with under Financial Marker
Motion to accept 2022 preliminary budget for distribution to the fellowship, made and seconded passed unanimously.
- Virtual Convention
Motion that we approve $2500 for the expense of a virtual event for 2021 only, made and seconded, failed 2-5.
- Allow the WSOT and WST to approve delegate mailings on behalf of the board, except for the SR-14 mailing which requires direct board approval. (Kevin)
Motion to allow WSOT and WST to approve delegate mailings on behalf of the WSBT, except for the SR-14 mailing which requires direct board approval, made and seconded, failed 2-5.
Motion to call the question made and seconded passed 6-1.
- SR-14 and referral pack
Motion that we ask the Conference Committee not to send out referral material with SR-14 material, made and seconded, passed unanimously.
Motion to call the question made and seconded passed unanimously.
Correspondence /Responses From / to the fellowship – (Pending Response): Past, Due, & Approved
Q/1/04 2021.01.03
Name: Anne W on behalf of CA-NY area
Email; Addressannewilliamsrn@gmail.com
City: Jackson
Page 18 of 196
State // Province New Jersey
Area or Region: New York
Subject: 11th concept concern
Your Message: To the WSBT:
As a fellowship, we say that “what we can’t do by ourselves, we can do with the help of others.” Our personal recovery depends on addicts helping one another to find a solution to our common problem. As the convention committee for New York, we are concerned for the fellowship, and we are raising this 11th concept concern to the Board of trustees, to suggest that the fellowship needs the board to rely more on the structures outlined in the World Service Manual.
We are less concerned about a realistic resetting of dates and locations for world conventions moving forward, than we are about a process that has devolved into the board working unilaterally without consulting the fellowship and appropriate committees.
While it was appropriate for the board to take emergency actions in the 2nd quarter of 2020, during the first wave of the pandemic, we do not seem to have soberly moved to restore our traditional practices as outlined in the world services manual. The board has assumed the responsibilities of standing committees such as Conference and Convention, as well as IT, Finance, and Structure and Bylaws.
Members of the fellowship that have dedicated years of service in these areas are feeling left out and dismissed as decisions are being made by the board repeatedly. Further, the board has been asked on numerous occasions to provide guidance to the fellowship on matters large and small and have failed to provide that guidance due to the amount of control that they are trying to exercise.
Another concern is that as a fellowship, we are leaving the newcomer behind. As we try to encourage service in this environment, we as experienced members being of service are pointing newcomers to a Manual that is not being practiced at the current time. This in and of itself is a violation of our traditions, concepts and bylaws that govern our organization.
As the NY fellowship, we have particularly experienced this pandemic from the earliest days. We understand more than anyone that this has been a perplexing and painful experience for all of us. We come to you not in judgment, but as members who ourselves, still sick and suffering, are trying to figure out the next right action. Our program teaches us that in moments of crisis like this, this is when we need our fellowship the most. We stand ready to provide the Board, and most importantly our fellowship, with service and support as we always have. But we urge the Board to restore a better sense of “regular order” as we move towards Conference, with a clearer sense of following our processes as they have been set forth.
Assigned – (George) Pending
Q1/06 2021/06/03
Page 19 of 196
Hi CAWS board. We are a licensed vendor of Narcotics Anonymous and are looking for a similar program with CAWS but have been unable to find it. We have had several people asks us whether we can print hoodies and t-shirts with the CA logo and wish to respect the guidelines of the organization. Can you advise? Are we able to license or become an approved vendor? If so what is the process.
Jason L. Pending
Q1/07 2021/08/03
I am writing to you in regards to the lack of a CA presence in Peterborough, Ontario, Canada. I am aware of the closest meetings that are available, and without going into too much detail without hearing from a representative, I would be interested in starting a CA presence in this jurisdiction. Please feel free to contact me at s.mccanse@live.ca or 705-930-6699
Assigned – (George)
Response
Reached out to Spenser via telephone left VM and directed him to the Area Chair.
Will follow up.
Q2.04 2021.13.04
Dear Sir/Madam,
I’m Becky from Global Cultural Adventurers (GCA), which is an international education and culture exchange organization dedicated to assisting Chinese university students to take part in internship and education programs overseas. We have been running international programs in China for many years and cooperated with about 80 Chinese universities.
Recently, we are eager to find internship opportunities in USA, because we are promoting the Internship Program for International Organizations for 2021-2022. We select excellent applicants to work as unpaid interns/volunteers in international organizations for 3-9 months. The applicants are all from prestigious Chinese universities with good English proficiency and comprehensive capacity, but different academic background. Most of them are second/third year undergraduate or graduate students, aging from 18 to 25 years old. Given the global pandemic, the internship can be done remotely. But when the situation gets better, we will do the local internship as well.
In this program, the applicants could be interns/volunteers without any salary, because their school scholarships and families can support them. Therefore, you don’t need to pay the salary, but provide an internship/volunteer opportunity and training.
Page 20 of 196
If Cocaine Anonymous World Service Office (CAWSO) is interested in accepting our students as your interns in 2021 or 2022, would you please tell me your requirements for interns, such as time, length of internship or academic background? How many interns are you looking for and what’s their detailed job description? In accordance with your requirements, we will select the appropriate applicants and place to you. We would appreciate it if we could have this opportunity.
I am looking forward to hearing back from you.
Sincerely,
Becky
Unassigned Pending
Q2.02 2021.16.04
Name:Misty
Email Address: mistycaws@gmail.com
City: Sylmar
State // Province CA
Area or Region Pacific South
Subject: Conference Concerns
Your Message: To the C.A. Trustees,
My name is Misty and I am a delegate for the San Fernando Valley Area. I am writing to you because of concerns my area has about going forward with an in person Conference this year.
The first concern is the financial hardship that an in person Conference would cause the areas. Our area has not been able to raise enough money each month to cover the normal operating funds this year and the fundraising opportunities have been limited due to Covid-19. Not using the Force Majeure (Act of God) clause, with Conference only 4 months away, does not seem to be a fiscally responsible decision for the fellowship as a whole. Based on the most recent letter from the Trustees, the question of why it was stated that “our hotel contract must be honored” has come up. Why does the Act of God clause only apply to the hotel and not to the financial hardship on Cocaine Anonymous?
The second concern is the ability to have a group conscience represented by areas all around the world. Travel restrictions may still be in effect limiting our ability to have worldwide delegates represented. If delegates from outside the United States have to quarantine, who would pay for this expense?
Lastly, there is the issue of social responsibility and public relations. If we hold an in person conference, are we encouraging our delegates to participate in a large in person event which may harm the public perception of our fellowship? Are we encouraging non-essential travel when it may not be recommended? Doing the Conference while adhering to social distancing guidelines also seems like it would be very difficult to actually accomplish. What do we do about the delegates who would financially need to share a room with someone from another area?
Page 21 of 196
It is truly an honor to be of service in an area that is considering the needs of Cocaine Anonymous as a whole. We know the decisions being made because of the pandemic are not easy, and we appreciate everyone’s service. Please consider these points before the final decision is made for an in person Conference for 2021. Thank you!
-Misty-
Assigned –Tom P. – Pending
Q2/03 2021/14/05
Darius Tahir dtahir@politico.com
We’re working on a piece for our newsletter, Future Pulse (linked below), and wanted to chat with a representative from Cocaine Anonymous about the organization and constituent gatherings have handled the pandemic (e.g. by moving meetings to Zoom) and how they think adjustments to the pandemic will affect the future.
Assigned – (Jason) – Pending
Q2/05 2021/20/05
From: chad lake <clake214@hotmail.com>
Sent: Thursday, May 20, 2021 10:29 AM
To: wsbt@ca.org <wsbt@ca.org>
Cc: chad lake <clake214@hotmail.com>
Subject: Register Trademark
Greetings,
I have a couple questions regarding what is and is not registered trademark for Cocaine Anonymous under the policy statement in the World Service Manual (WSM). The understanding I have is the CA logo and the motto We’re Here and We’re Free is the only designated material trademarked for Cocaine Anonymous. It was recently brought to my attention in the WSCIT Committee workbook page 10, Requirements for C.A. Area/District Websites, section f) …..”C.A.”, “Cocaine Anonymous” and the C.A. logo are registered trademarks of Cocaine Anonymous World Service, Inc. All rights reserved.” There appears to be conflicting statements between the policy statement and the suggested disclaimer for use on websites. What is truly registered trademark material?
Furthermore, the notion I have when using the CA logo on media content “no other text or design element may touch, overlap or show through behind the logo other than a solid color. The block letters “CA” may only be used alone when they bear no resemblance to the inner circle type style of the official logo” is self-explanatory. However, there is no mention about design element on media content with respects to the motto We’re Here
Page 22 of 196
and We’re Free. Would the same “design element” statement apply to the motto since it is registered trademark or does it not?
Ilas,
Chad t
Assigned – (Kevin) – Pending
WSBT Referrals
Tracking reference number WSBT 2021-05.
| Reference # | 8139642 |
| Status | Complete |
| Date | 01/10/2021 |
| Committee Selected | Structure & Bylaws |
| Name | Russell S. (on behalf of WSC Conference Committee) |
| Phone # | +66637516831 |
| Area or Conference Committee | WSC Conference Committee |
| Type of Submission | Submission on behalf of a Committee |
| Email Address | r.sedman@yahoo.com |
| Summary of Referral | Revision to Bylaws section, pages 72 through 80, of the World Service Manual to limit confusion and clarify the WSBT and its Trustee members within the scope of this document. |
Page 23 of 196
Tracking reference number WSBT 2021-06
Page 24 of 196
Dates and Times for Conference Calls and Quarterlies. (George)(All dates and times to be discussed and agreed) WSBT Conference Call: Saturday July 31st 8am – 12pm PDT
WSBT Q3 2021: Thursday Aug 26th 1pm for lunchThursday Aug 26th 2pm – 10pmFriday Aug 27th 8am – 10pmSaturday Aug 28th 8am-10pmSunday Aug 29th 8am – 12pmTEC 2021: Trustee Election Committee Convenes. Monday Aug 30th 8am – 10pmTuesday Aug 31st 8am – 10pmWednesday Sept 1st 8am – 12pm Conference 2021: Wednesday Sept 1st 1pm Delegate OrientationWednesday Sept 1st 7pm-10pmThursday Sept 2nd 8am – 12pmThursday Sept 2nd 1pm Regional Caucus & BreakoutFriday Sept 3rd 8am – 12pm BreakoutFriday Sept 3rd 1pm – 10pm Return to Conference floorSaturday Sept 4th 8am – 10pmSunday Sept 5th 8am – 1pm Conference Close WSBT Orientation Call: Saturday Sept 25th 8am – 1pm PDT Dates and times to be agreed by next Board. WSBT Conference Call: Saturday Oct 30th 8am – 12pm PDT WSBT Q4 2021: Face to face to accommodate large intake of Trustees.Friday Dec 3rd 1pm for lunchFriday Dec 3rd 2pm – 10pmSaturday Dec 4th 8am – 10pmSunday Dec 5th 8am – 1pm
WSBT Q1 2022: Proposal from Illinois Area to host at their Area Convention.Thursday March 3rd (Early start to be able to attend Convention)Friday March 4thSaturday March 5th WSBT Group Inventory – Tradition 6
Moment of silence followed by the “WE” version of the Serenity Prayer.
| Reference # | 9028761 |
| Status | Complete |
| Date | 05/10/2021 |
| Committee Selected | World Service Board of Trustees |
| Name | Courtney Row |
| Phone # | 6472859020 |
| Area or Conference Committee | Board of Trustees – Accessibility |
| Type of Submission | Individual Submission |
| Email Address | courtney.row@gmail.com |
| Summary of Referral | Hello, Twice in the last year I have done my best to help accommodate two members who have a disability. The first was blind and the second deaf. In accommodating the blind member, we have been able to do so in our in person meetings however once we moved to Zoom a barrier was realized. The voice assistant interferes with the microphone so the member was able to listen and unable to participate by sharing. The second member was looking for an ASL sponsor. After contacting many members, it was in AA where I was able to find two American Sign Language sponsors. One from the AA Accessibility Committee chair and other through an AA member. I wonder if CA can benefit from creating its own Accessibility Committee to help guide groups and create avenues to remove barriers and prevent discrimination. Some members expressed concern over anonymity at one point. Until the ASL sponsor was found it was suggested that AA might compensate an interpreter for the member to be able to attend meetings. The concern was around having a non-member attend closed meetings for members only. Though each group is guided by group conscience perhaps we can help groups to guide these discussions? Perhaps creating guidelines around accessibility will help |
Page 24 of 196
| Summary of Referral con’t | the fellowship to unify in addressing any concerns that may surface in the future and create spaces accessible to all. Thank you for your consideration. Courtney R A member of Southern Ontario Cocaine Anonymous GSR A Spiritual Experience Group |
Dates and Times for Conference Calls and Quarterlies. (George)
(All dates and times to be discussed and agreed)
WSBT Conference Call:
Saturdaym July 31st 8am – 12pm PDT
WSBT Q3 2021:
Thursday, Aug 26th 1pm for lunch
Thursday, Aug 26th 2pm – 10pm
Friday, Aug 27th 8am – 10pm
Saturday, Aug 28th 8am-10pm
Sunday, Aug 29th 8am – 12pm
TEC 2021:
Trustee Election Committee Convenes.
Monday, Aug 30th 8am – 10pm
Tuesday, Aug 31st 8am – 10pm
Wednesday,Sept 1st 8am – 12pm
Conference 2021:
Wednesday, Sept 1st 1pm Delegate Orientation
Wednesday, Sept 1st 7pm-10pm
Thursday, Sept 2nd 8am – 12pm
Thursday, Sept 2nd 1pm Regional Caucus & Breakout
Friday, Sept 3rd 8am – 12pm Breakout
Friday, Sept 3rd 1pm – 10pm Return to Conference floor
Saturday, Sept 4th 8am – 10pm
Sunday, Sept 5th 8am – 1pm Conference Close
WSBT Orientation Call:
Saturday, Sept 25th 8am – 1pm PDT
Dates and times to be agreed by next Board.
WSBT Conference Call:
Saturday, Oct 30th 8am – 12pm PDT
WSBT Q4 2021:
Face to face to accommodate large intake of Trustees.
Friday, Dec 3rd 1pm for lunch
Friday, Dec 3rd 2pm – 10pm
Saturday, Dec 4th 8am – 10pm
Sunday, Dec 5th 8am – 1pm
WSBT Q1 2022: Proposal from Illinois Area to host at their Area Convention.
Page 25 of 196
Thursday, March 3rd (Early start to be able to attend Convention)
Friday, March 4th
Saturday, March 5th
WSBT Group Inventory – Tradition 6
Moment of silence followed by the “WE” version of the Serenity Prayer.
Click here for all attached documents and reports
Page 26 of 196