Nov 19 – 21, 2004 – WSBT Quarterly Meeting Minutes

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CA WORLD SERVICE BOARD OF TRUSTEES REGULAR QUARTERLY

MEETING MINUTES

November 19 – 21, 2004

Approved Minutes

(Approved February 18, 2005)

Since this report is a confidential CA document, for members only, it contains Member’s full names. This usage to facilitate communication within the fellowship was approved by the 1990 WS Conference. Such confidential use does not, of course, violate in any way our Tradition on anonymity in public communications media (press, radio, TV, etc.).

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The regular quarterly meeting of the CA World Service board of Trustees, at the Hyatt Regency Hotel, Los Angeles, CA, was called to order at 7:50p.m.on Friday, November 19, 2004.

  1. Quiet time & Serenity Prayer
  2. Roll Call

Teri Knight – Atlantic South Regional Trustee – Chair
Cynthia Cronkhite – Pacific North Regional Trustee – Vice Chair
Jay Finesilver – Southwest Regional Trustee – Secretary
Tony Drake – Midwest Regional Trustee
Jackie Schickler – Atlantic North Regional Trustee
John Bodkin – World Service Trustee
Bobbie Harmon – Trustee at Large
Carl Warlick – Pacific South Regional Trustee
Absent: Earl Henderson       World Service Office Trustee

  1. Personal sharing completed
  2. Reading of the 12 Traditions – Jackie
  3. Read and Discuss Tradition Ten

Cocaine Anonymous has no opinion on outside issues; hence the CA name ought never be drawn into public controversy.

Discussion by Board Members: Public Controversy is a complex area – namely anonymous versus public. The public is aware they are out there – media coverage “gang’s anon” – using the 12 steps – read modified preamble – public controversy in general with CA – not like Lion’s clubs going against each other – it’s coming from within. Threat of lawsuits, filing for gaming licenses in the name of CA, other crazy things, seems to come from within – starts with little reverence, little love, rock star mentality, charismatic people who come to receive recognition – it grips them and they get going with it.   Very easy for some to find a way to adopt a fundraising/church/charismatic

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mentality about CA in all of the social and all of the things where we get mixed up on the primary purpose. Stick to our primary purpose, Concepts, Traditions, By-Laws are waved around and doesn’t sound or feel like anything about CA when they first came to CA. Praises staying in CA and doing the traditions – recovery doesn’t care, disease doesn’t change. Never viewed CA like a “I have an idea, it’s an idea of love, different in respect between how perceived by white people and black people.” Feeling of unity – unity must necessarily be addressed: it boils down to the disease of addiction – it doesn’t care about you – how you came here – doesn’t care how you got here – different types of mentalities – creates disunity – creates fear – pointing fingers at each other – disunifiying – identinfiying in a graphical way, race relations, let’s get our act together, we need to get real and we need to get back to unity.     Notify the press, how to handle them, they are looking for a story they are looking for a newcomer – education, fellowship, letting the newcomers know what is expected regarding anonymity, own experience shows how careful one must be. Fine balance between what we have to do. Raised a good point – the food of our controversy is what pops up in the fellowship. Anything not related to the 12 steps is an outside issue. The primary purpose is to carry the message – Period. Anything outside of this brings in controversy – anything referencing prayer, money. Oftentimes when someone is waving the concepts or traditions, they truly haven’t studied them at all. When you peel back what is underneath, you find fear, ignorance – what is your primary purpose – carry the message to the addict who suffers – what message are you carrying – you start muddying the water – one area versus another, my side versus your side. Keep things really simple and it might not become muddy waters. Often have traditions breaks here where people are not informed of what this concept means. Starts with a little reverence, love and humilty here to not go in to public controversy. Controversy can be around issues spurned by resentment , fueled by fear. This controversy taks us away from the primary purpose. To stay out of controversy unity must continue to be addressed. Ths disease is color blind and socio-economic blind. This trad comes up a lot in the PI area- sometimes in the press re gossip. Controversy can be within our fellowship or even parts of this. We can do a better job of ecucation and awareness.   Controvery can start when we get away from our primary purpose. Keep this tradition simple for clarity.

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  1. Read and Discuss Concept IV

Throughout our Conference structure, we ought to maintain at all responsible levels a traditional “Right of Participation,” taking care that each classification or group of our world servants shall be allowed a voting representation in reasonable proportion to the responsibility that each must discharge.

Discussion by Board Members: This concept was behind the four new areas petitioning last year. Voting example in the Southwest Region. Also proxy issue of a WSBT vote to some other member of either board in another example. The right of participation may be misunderstood and misused too – even innocently. This allows for the right of rotation also. This is about educating and perhaps good sponsorship too. Allowing a person to participate – proxy votes to someone else may create an unfair situation where one person has 2 votes, which should be addressed as the person’s right of participation and honoring this concept. You have the right to participate, which is really cherished. It’s our responsibility to educate and education starts with sponsorship. If you want to have what I have, you have to do what I do. The 10th tradition and concepts – we’ll have less and less misunderstandings of these once we educate them.

  1. Chair’s Opening Remarks – Teri

Order of comments will be recognized by Chair.

Carl’s Emails are not coming through Yahoo – asking Jay to check it out – messages not coming into INBOX.

There will be 4 quarterly meetings during the course of this year.

Request everyone be mindful of time and length of debate – Chair is open to limit amount of debate

Chair will share after everyone has shared

We will add to the agenda along the way

Good to keep using email participation, helps facilitate communication

Board members are allowed to share once before seconds

On topic where Chair is passionate to share, Chair will be turned over to Vice Chair, then gavel will be turned back over to Chair prior to vote.

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Lots of interesting things to do…

Question from John B: what are we going to do about the upcoming board meetings? Standing by 4 qtrly meetings as previously announced. Should this be made clear at BTB (Board to Board)? It will be brought to the forefront that the 4 quarterly meetings are scheduled for this year.

Issue of TAL with BTB {Tony} and not necessarily the issue of 4 meetings.

By shifting our schedule to not start so late, to come in the nite before – not for all 4 quarterly meetings, may shift our time for quarterly meetings, due to the conference meeting – financial obligations to this – bringing to the BTB – can they go out and pass this so that we can come in earlier – and then decide which quarterly meeting to come in earlier. Ask board to discuss & look at it to shift these around..

  1. Review of Agenda

Done with one change so far 8 and 15 of new business the same so original 15 striken and others renumbered.

  1. Approval of Quarterly Minutes –
  • May 2004 – These have gone through 8 or 9 different drafts One change on page 4.
  • Motion to approve May 2004 minutes, second, with no discussion, vote prepared, Passed with one abstention.
  • August 2004 – Motion to approve, second, Discussion – corrections have been received via notes – due to majority in attendance
  • Point of information – non BTB ? Yes excluding WSOB/WSBT minutes Unanimously Passed
  • Motion to approve minutes, excluding WSOB to WSBT minutes – passed unanimously.

Point of Information – Are we to read the BTB minutes and approve them at this meeting?

Proposing to send minutes to Earl (when he returns) to send to WSOB for review. Then, hopefully, it will be only 2 to 3 weeks between this time and when these can

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be approved. There is only 1 more meeting. Transcripts will not get to WSO until Dec 1.

Decision: Copies will go to Earl, Have your comments to Jay 1 week from today, please.

  • WSBT Conference Call Minutes
  • October 2004 Conference Call Minutes – Motion to approve, second, comment that one board member hasn’t had an opportunity to review these – Question: Was there a reference in regards to the conference coordinator position? The information was not included as it was a question versus discussion.

{Motion to approve October 2004 conference call minutes receive Second, Passed with one abstention}

–   Record of Online Business (Aug 04 through Nov 04)

– Between August and November 2004 quarterly meeting – Motion to Approve Online business second, – comment this is the running agenda of dialog of motions, summary of motions of activity, that is why it appears different from what passed motions were submitted – Passed unanimously

{Motion to approve Record of Online Business from August through November 2004, Second, Passed Unanimously.}

WSBT OFFICER REPORTS 

  1. Chairperson –(Teri) refer to previously submitted reports – Motion to accept Chair’s report, Second, Passed
  2. Vice Chair — (Cynthia) Posted to the group – Motion to accept Vice chair’s report, Second, Passed
  3. Secretary — (Jay) – Posted to the group – even the shorter ones Motion to accept Secretary’s report, Second, Passed

TRUSTEE REPORTS

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World Service Office Trustee — (Earl) – Trustee was absent, but submitted online Oct 16, 2004

  • Foreign Language Project submitted by Jon Fish is included with the reports submitted to WSBT at this quarterly meeting. Although Jon Fish will not be able to attend the WSBT/WSOB meeting Saturday, there are interesting notes of infomation submitted.
  • Jackie has thoughts and ideas on this portion of this Report: Part of this comes not from conference committee – they have gone somewhat further of what they are to do – due to not being able to understand what the literal translation of the concepts/traditions. Suggested placing this as an agenda item {#16 in New Business}
  • Point of information –are we getting some unanimity on this? An emerging authority on this – 3 really looks at translation of the book – idiomatic translations are not necessarily expressing what the idea – what the whole concept is. Work in progress – the very thing the Trustees should be doing.
  • “Newsflash” announcement only from WSO to delegates is included in information handed out, highlighting information to fellowship, not giving full, lengthy discussion/explanation to them. Newsflash is a new publication planned for the delegates – a communication device being done at wsob between John and Jon -could be used by delegates and areas/districts- a work in progress.
  • WSO financial will be here for BTB if there are questions WSBT members may have. Graphics were compliments of Jahi B.

     Motion to approve “WSOT Report”, second, Pass Unanimously.

World Service Trustee — (John) – Asked to be passed by at this time, but will submit report as per usual.

Trustee at Large — (Bobbie) Posted –

     Motion to approve – second, Passed

Pacific North Trustee — (Cynthia) posted, hardline approach also taken, no more chasing after reports

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Motion to approve – second, Passed

Pacific South Trustee — (Carl) – Posted, one change – total meetings in Las Vegas has increased from 4 to 7 — Discussed what is going on in his area & insights of fellowship from his perspective. We need to change and we need to figure how we need to change. Leadership is an interesting dynamic in regards to what the trustee is doing – as members of the board, is there anything to help from us? Just by being there. Going to get down to basic things and notification that the Trustee cannot support some of the things slated by areas in region. Going to be hardline with them that Trustee is there to be in support of entire region – not specific areas. Has seen several reports in great detail, which has been impressive. You tell people things 5 times – trustee happened to be there on the 5th time when the reports were completed and submitted. Caucus was November 13, 2004.

Motion to approve – second, Passed

Atlantic North Trustee – (Jackie) –Posted report — has not spoken with everyone in region – regional meetings are next week, continuing to build communication. Will be reporting more at February 2005 Quarterly.

Motion to approve – second, Passed

Atlantic South Trustee – (Teri) – posted report, no amendments.

Motion to approve – second, Passed

Midwest Trustee – (Tony) – posted, took hardline approach to receiving reports and have received them.

Motion to approve – second, Passed

Southwest Trustee — (Jay) – posted – Regional Assembly was last weekend, Bobbie H was one of the speakers – Challenges in the Region still exist – some individuals still are disunifying, regional rotation for hosting regional convention addressed – 2 of 4 areas in Texas not brought into consideration for location of convention. Ad hoc committee created as to how rotation should proceed . Jay was invited to Wichita, KS at their expense, to do Structure and Bylaws workshop.

     Motion to approve – second, Passed 

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Motion to adjourn at 11:30 p.m. until 8:30 a.m. Saturday 11-20-2004, second, passed.

Point of information: John B will not be available until 9:00 a.m.

Saturday, November 20, 2004 – 8:40 a.m.

Called to order with Moment of Silence – Serenity Prayer

 

TRUSTEE COMMITTEE REPORTS

Finance Committee – (Earl, Jay) – Report submitted

  1. Established agreement with WSO to receive bank statements
  2. Financial Guidelines are to be reviewed also.

Motion to approve – second, Passed

Conference Committee — (John, Carl) Carl was unable to speak to this issue – deferred to John when he arrives

Long Term Planning — (Bobbie, Teri, Cynthia, Jackie, John, Carl, Earl, Jay) Online report submitted, getting additional assistance and also getting updates of contacts – LTP meeting during the lunch break today.

Motion to approve – second, Passed

Trustee Election Committee — (Cynthia, Tony, Jay, Earl, Carl, Jackie) –already coming up with slate of nominees – more information as quarter develops, revised copies of service resume were posted

Motion to approve – second, Passed

Legal Committee — (Jackie, Jay) – posted report – Jay – asked several things on report and will go over them throughout the quarter

Motion to approve – second, Passed

Orientation — (Teri, Cynthia, Jackie, Jay) report has been posted.

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Motion to approve – second, Passed

Negotiation — (John, Cynthia, Jackie, Tony, Teri, Jay) – Deferred to John

Motion to approve – second, Passed

NewsGram Committee — (Cynthia, Jackie, Teri, Bobbie) – Posted

Motion to approve – second, Passed 

Convention Committee (Ad Hoc) (Jay, Teri, Jackie, Cynthia, Bobbie, John) – Posted report – not a lot of activity during the past quarter

Motion to approve – second, Passed

Outreach (Cynthia, Bobbie, Carl, Jackie, Jay, John) – report posted,

Motion to approve – second, Passed

 

TRUSTEE CONFERENCE COMMITTEE REPORTS

Finance Committee — (Earl) – No report due to absence

Conference Committee — (John) – Very active in regards to holding Conference in new location. There have been glitches in getting minutes of last meeting to transcriber/back to WSO. Summary of Motions are to be in December delegate mailing. (Teri stated transcripts are to be complete by December 1) – Dailies are complete in rough form and were posted on Yahoo yesterday. Dynamic between WSBT and Conference Chair is working in positive direction – Concerned about timeline and will address this in BTB. Looking forward to a positive movement of forging ahead.

Motion to approve – second, Passed 

Convention Committee — (Carl) – beginning to work on 2005 guidelines & moving forward. Are reports being submitted other than minutes according to guidelines? Reports are in addition to minutes – will find out. Yahoo group started

Motion to approve – second, Passed

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  • CAWS 2005 — (Teri) No report in reference to convention in submitted report – no raffle, which was a concern, concern about speaker slate – since this is the World Convention, asked if it was a good idea to limit diversity of speakers – committee asked to consider its slate and further discussion warranted more diversity with speaker selection. The past consideration of automatic placement of speaker from someone in 2004 to 2005 – host committee can select whomever they wish.

Further discussion in regards to banquet.

Motion to approve – second, Passed

CAWS 2006 (Jay) –written report submitted also: samples of graphics were sent around – graphics designer is available to assist with this Covention . Two areas in Texas are working together – WSO is not concerned with progress as of this quarterly meeting. Looking toward Hilton Downtown. Hotel information is encouraging latest copy for WST review. Not for profit status needs consideration. Point of Information – Fliers need to be completed by January

Motion to approve – second, Passed 

  • CAWS 2007 (Tony) – written report submitted also. There are concerns to be addressed There is a definite timeline developing – there should be an eye kept on all issues. Timeline and lack of unity will cause this to be ununified if LTP is not in place for this convention. Lots of opportunity have been given to grow. WSO has advised MRT in regards to timeline – month by month is very detailed from WSO in regards to what to expect when, therefore the timeline could be and should be considered.

Motion to approve – second, Passed

  • CAWS 2008 (Cynthia) written report submitted.   Resumes will be submitted for steering committee on newly approved form: Chair is working on 2 to 3 candidates for each position. At the end of December, we have a conference call scheduled to determine who will fill steering committee positions. WST stated there is an extremely enticing deal

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with the hotel for this convention, price going in right direction – trying to make a larger numbers available with /affordability at convention for room rates – and this appears to be already going forward for this convention.

Motion to approve – second, Passed

Structure & Bylaws — (Jay) – written report submitted. Committee had met online – First draft of all referrals, waiting on dailies & transcripts.

Motion to approve – second, Passed

H & I Committee — (Bobbie) written report submitted. – some delegates don’t have email, therefore some information is hard to get to/from them. UK issue will be addressed by new Chair & Trustee. Will notify WSBT when she is not able to have email contact with any individuals. Updates from conference are not known – she will have to be signing off when updates are listed.

Motion to approve – second, Passed 

P I Committee — (Jackie) written report submitted. No additional comments.

Motion to approve – second, Passed 

Unity Committee — (Teri) written report submitted – Suggestion to create a mission statemtent because no one understands what this committee stands for and why, specifically, this committee is needed. Questions to consider in future: Is there a way to get a unity proclamation before some trustees leave their positions? How can we promote unity world wide?

Motion to approve – second, Passed

Internet Committee — (Tony) written report submitted. Much to report on – few minor violations, check out websites in region; Oklahoma has new website, looks good to him. Call for story submissions are on the areas’ sites.

Motion to approve – second, Passed

L C & F Committee – (Cynthia) – written report submitted.   So far, the committee has received four new stories, in various formats; was unable to open

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one e-mail attachment due to password protection but is following up with sender. {Teri offered her assistance to this committee}

Motion to approve – second, Passed

WST Report, Trustee committee Report, Negotiations report will be submitted after lunch and BTB meeting.

Adjourned for Lunch at 11:24a.m.

Note: there are separate minutes of the meeting between the WSBT and the members of the WSOB in attendance from today’s meeting. Please refer to them for more informaiton and detail.

{Returned to business at hand after BTB at 5:10 p.m.}

 

OLD BUSINESS

  1. Trustee section in the Delegate notebook (Teri)
  • To remain on agenda pending status of inclusion in the Delegate handbook and updates in the WSM.
  1. Referral 006 (Jahi)
  • Jahi to draft a response to this referral (completed at August quarterly)
  • Confirm that WSO has complete presentation for the CA archieves follow up with this at next Quarterly Meeting
  1. Comprehensive Audit of Office (not just financial) (Jahi)

Tabled – will continue to be tabled until further notice

  1. Review procedures for selection of WSOB Directors (John)
  • To remain on agenda pending status of inclusion in the WSM
  1. Referrals we are to be working on throughout the year (All)  

#2701 – I would like the conference to vote on: If an audio committee has been created operating under the 9th tradition, with the sole purpose of fundraising, and creating unity through the fellowship, shouldn’t we be able to propose to tape any CA event as long as each party has an agreement or contract that is acceptable to each party involved. The Trustee Board suggested that A.C.A.D. tape only in their own district. So that is why I’m

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sending this referral. Can an Audio Committee function throughout our fellowship meeting, district, area, region, etc. (John, Tony)

Motion that our response to referral #2701 be: “The MWRT spoke with maker of this referral and informed the maker of how to bring this referral to WSC.” Second, Pass 

#3562 – With the Adoption of Holland, Sweden, Hong Kong & Scotland as new areas – Should we now consider adopting a NEW REGION to include the U.K. area; Holland Area; Sweden Area; Hong Kong Area & Scotland Area as well as other European areas that became independent areas in the future? As it stands, the Atlantic North Region contains 18 areas with 5 of those abroad making Regional Trustee travel a financial burden to the Fellowship. (Jackie, Jay)

Status – #3562, #4101, 4217 – All three are being worked on and will have updates online and for next Quarterly. Bobbie added to this.

#3726 – Develop guidelines that address the issue of streaming audio links of CA speakers on area websites – I am the webmaster of our area’s website (casandiego.org). We have added a page to our website that allows one to click on a link and listen to CA speaker’s tapes. I believe we need guidelines on this issue so as to assure that we stay within the 12 traditions of CA.

Status – (Cynthia, John, Jackie) have been working on this, but no response has been produced. Will report of progress at next Quarterly Meeting. 

#3899 – Please refer to attached regarding disaccreditation of “the truth, the light and the way.” Meeting was disaccredited; can this be overturned? If so, by whom?

Status – (Carl, John) No action taken – updates at next Quarterly Meeting. 

#3945 – Review the Area Structure in Pacific South with reference to several very small Areas. Consider whether in the interests of CA Unity, and in the interest of creating more viable areas, several PS Areas should be combined. Particularly, merging Orange County and San Diego together and incorporating Central California into SF Valley.

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Status – (Carl, Earl, John) Visited Santa Barbara, OC, San Diego will be in December, February 26th will be assembly…updates at next Quarterly Meeting. 

#4005 – Grant authority to WSBT to allow spending not granted on WSC approved budget. This allows for conservative budgeting and guidelines while giving authority to complete projects, slated but not budgeted in the current year.

Status – (Teri, Jay) nothing has not been completed – updated at next Quarterly meeting… Teri will be contacting Jay on this one

#4007 – Allow tapes of CA events be sold across the board/world at other CA events. Status – (John, Tony) Tony is not certain what this one is about… actual referral was given to Tony for review…one issue involved with this…we don’t own the tapes {Referred From S & B} wishes to have motion that tapes are already sold across the board/world.

Motion that CA tapes are already sold at CA events around the world, therefore no other action is required. Second

Amendment – accepted with verbiage listed below

Motion response

We have no name of a maker for this referral and accordingly our response: CA tapes are already sold all over the world at other CA events; therefore no other action is required.  

Seconded and Passed. 

#4057 – When a group has lost sight of the primary purpose, as well as the 12 Traditions, has no respect for the District or Area, this was the resulting action taken.

Status – (Carl, Jay, John) – refer to #4114 & #4122 also

#4122, and 4114 will be placed together, language will all be the same and reported at next Quarterly Meeting

 #4084 – Re-work Trustee ratification process on pg. 6.7 WSM Paragraph 1. Require at least a 30-day notice of any ratification vote taking place.

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Status –    (Teri, Jackie, Jay) – nothing completed report at next Quarterly Meeting

#4101 – Request that there be two (2) Trustees to represent the Atlantic North Region due to the vast scope and size of the region. This would permit one Trustee to cover the North American sector and another to cover the European sector. This would represent an opportunity to save dramatically on travel expenses within the region.

Status –  (Jackie, Jay) refer to #3562 & #4217 Bobbie has been added to this 

#4114 – Does the word (Addict) on a T-shirt with the CA logo, a violation of any kind. Status – (John, Carl) combine with and refer to 4057, 3057, 4114 and 3899

#4122 – Is this a violation when put on a t-shirt? Our ideas did not work. Truth; a). That we were addicts and our lives were unmanageable, The Light; b). That probably no human power could relieve our addiction, The Way c). That God could and would if He were sought. But the God idea did.

Status – (John, Carl) working on this, may combine with other referrals too 

#4157 – Make it a point to visit each committee chair to remind them that there is a 12 point and a 7 point approval process for literature and media. My concern is that committees are not adhering to this process by presenting items to the floor without going through these processes.

Status – (Teri, Tony) nothing has been completed. Next Quarterly Meeting 

#4204 – With the emergency and power of the electronic media and/or worldwide internet phenomena, how can we amend the 11th Tradition, ending with “and the internet” when read at our meetings?

Status – (Cynthia, Jay) started a dialog but nothing to present at this time – updates at next Quarterly Meeting. Bobbie wished to be added to this one

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#4217 – To explore the process, structure, timeline and financial implications of creating and supporting European region: to be created at WSC 2006.

Status – (Jackie, Jay) refer to #3562 & #4101 – Bobbie has been added to each of these – 4 point process may be in pass it on to Bobbie Also may need to go back into the office archives to determine if earlier process had been developed.

#4218 – Suggest CAWSC (CA World Service Conference) initiates and/or establishes a separate committee for memorabilia and/or CA Approved materials not covered by Literature, Chips and Format (LCF)

Status – (Teri, Earl) nothing to report, next Quarterly Meeting 

#4226 – What happens to the copyright if and when the logo is translated into foreign language?

Status – (Bobbie, Jackie, John) they have started conversation, also #4689…Jay wants to join this one…next Quarterly Meeting 

#4302 – Review the AA “12 Concepts Illustrated” booklet and determine whether CA groups and service workers may use this booklet, or whether the LCF Committee needs to re-invent it.

Status – (Bobbie, Jay, Cynthia) already started speaking to this, updates at next Quarterly meeting 

#4375 – On page 4 of the newly approved “Financial Guidelines for Groups” etc., under the sub-heading “Special Donations,” does one group donating to a “Special Cause” aiding another group violate Tradition 7?

Status – (Bobbie, Earl) started conversing, next Quarterly Meeting

#4397 – There is a treatment center in Las Vegas named EOB Treatment that requires CA members to breath into a breathalyzer to enter its facility for an open CA meeting. This goes against our traditions personal rights of privacy.

Status – (Carl, John) Carl went to Vegas and spoke with treatment facility…everyone entering will have a breath alyzer…one person resented this. In H & I guidelines, it states any person entering any institution should be subject to institution rules. Education opportunity – meeting didn’t make him take test, institution required this.

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Restate status of meeting as either closed or restrictive. Take this back and work on this. Cynthia wants to join. Updated at next Quarterly Meeting 

#4689 – Does a Director or Trustee member of a Service Board, such as the WSBT or WSOB, have the right to proxy a vote?

Status – (Bobbie, Jackie, John) refer to #4226 Jay added – updates at Next Quarterly meeting

#4718 – To add to the WSM, page 3.5, under WSC Committee Chairperson (duties and responsibilities) item (j) “work to insure wherever possible that the vice-chair or another delegate committee member is willing and able to assume the chair position the current chair term is completed.” This member feels that when a large committee of say 15-25 members feels the necessity to elect a non-delegate chair, then that committee and chair is doing something wrong.

Status – (Jay, Teri, Cynthia) response not prepared at this time – next Quarterly meeting

#4729 – Please investigate the legalities of using the Public Information poster on a postcard. “Federal Postal Law.”

Status – (Jackie, Jay) worked on this – report on next Quarterly Meeting…part of Trustee Legal Committee

  1. Copyright protection outside of the United St ates (Jackie, Jay)
  • Moved to Legal Committee agenda — status?

Status – This matter is not part of Legal Committee report, extensive notes will be available once they are compiled from our meeting with NA.

  1. Trusted Servants: When Trust is Lost (Jay, Jackie, John)
  • Status?

Looked at this from last time to this time, but wanted to wait until NA meeting; one of their bulletins speak regarding theft – removal procedures are in place.

Status – Will address this at next Quarterly Meeting…John doesn’t think this should be in CA…add Carl to this discussion

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  1. Review and discussion of what CA’s (through our Board or the WSOB) response is to help areas and even other countries to incorporate as non-profits under the applicable legal structure. {Comment: the forms were last updated in 1992 or sometime in this period; I have three areas asking for the forms and guidance now.} (Jay/Jackie)
  • Status?

Status – Will look again at this, but will bring this to next Quarterly Meeting

  1. Concept for two WSO Directors (Earl, Teri)
  • Status?

Status – Earl has update, but hasn’t had chance to report/comment on it…next Quarterly Meeting

  1. Review/approve WSO Personnel Policy Handbook (Teri)

Status – Letter from Bob has been received – can be removed from agenda at this time.

  1. Legal counsel for CA (Jay)
  • Status?

Status – This one has evolved with counsel for someone to look at theft issues and fiduciary issues about going to attorney general. Pro bono attorney helping with this issue, incorporation issue, got no help from WSOB, and help with this is on way. He knows he must charge us something, but he will advise what he/partners wants to charge, even if it is $1. Point: if he approves $1 fee to CA, should be same consideration to all non-profits…Response: states is so. Will report at next Quarterly Meeting

  1. Issues regarding finances of districts (John)
  • Status?

Status – Been on agenda for better part of year, mainly to do with what has been occurring in LA area. Ad hoc on some form of transmittal in form of letter, guideline, in regards to what WSO does regarding areas not employing sound financial practices. Wishes to withdraw this, because our business is not to assist other businesses in how to operate their business. This came situationally due to merging. Outside of scope of WSBT, therefore removed.

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  1. Storage on Yahoo Group (Tony)

Status – suggestion…rather than spending money, Microsoft will be coming out with new industry information. WSO will not be assisting getting a server, therefore further investigation as new products are available should be addressed. Updated at next Quarterly Meeting

  1. Sales by members and timing of sales of items with the wrong CA logo at area and world conventions (Jay)
  • Continued discussion from online agenda

Status – Sent out pages of information regarding “flashing lights agenda” item… In regards to CA problem – issue of using wrong logo – is WSBT obligation to protect, also obligation to educate areas of responsibility to protect copyright. Maybe before next convention, come up with something not punitive, but something educational and protecting CA’s interest.

Appropriateness should be with using CA approved materials. Left on agenda for next Quarterly Meeting – Also add please other items with no logo and when and where they are sold.

Dinner break – Reconvene at 8:00 p.m.

  1. Apportionment among the regional trustees regarding growth in Mexico (Jay)
  • Continued discussion from online agenda

Status – By way of background, request for starter kit to Puerto Vallarta; Not sent to Jay, but it didn’t go to anyone in particular and not to anyone where lines are drawn, such as SWR; when the WSO asked the group where the members came from the reponse was from the Pacific South Region. This is confusing because to Jay it would make sense to contact the nearest geographical region.

Should this fall into international structure? WSBT will look for any international matters to be fowarded to TAL with CC: to any other regional trustee within close proximity…the statement of “attached please find job description of TAL for your reference…send to Bob with CC to WSO so no skip between the loop, also CC to Earl. This will be crafted…we will review prior to sending, or in spirit of this explanation, move forward and complete this issue.

  1. TEC interview question regarding internet capability (Jackie)

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Status – on new service resume form …being addressed in sub committee. …remove from agenda

  1. Special project and fundraising for literature translation (Jackie)

Status – should be removed – translations being looked at…dealt with in LTP, WSOB, Outreach

  1. Newcomer friendly web link on CA.org (Jackie)
  • Moved to LTP/online agenda – status?

Status – Now being addressed by WSOB and Webmaster. To remain on agenda until such time of completion.

  1. CA policy about vendors at CA conventions. (Jay, Teri, John)

Status – CA trademark from vendors… not perhaps as narrow at CA conventions, with research with NA and AA, especially since AA lost its trademark…strict vendor regulations/licenses should be in place to protect the trademark…it is for our board to decide if we would like to explore & put it in place for us….is this something we want to do? Several ‘ghost’ the CA.org site, which is another issue…do we want this, how much do we want to enforce this, we have to protect our trademark.

Jackie – are we looking at CA vendor licensing in the full sense or just at convention…Jay: broad scope, to include beyond revenues of convention. Originator spoke against this, but during time here and doing research, changed mind. Our members love to buy/sell/wear CA jewelry all over the world…at least with vendor licensing, it would/can limit number of licenses out there and types of business that also is out there…good revenue source and deterent of other people who are trying to sell merchandise without vendor’s license. Criteria, guidelines, entering into business arrangement with CA…move forward to protect the next stage…never saw the office as business to package, ship jewelry…we have obligation to see our members go to website to spend on chips, key rings, donor program to get the message out there regarding CA. Jewelry business is not our business. A licensing agreement doesn’t mean that we are buying/selling…we are selling ability to use it with license fees. We are selling logo for the specific amount of time…more formalized way of what can/cannot be done with the vendor licensing umbrella…lends to LTP due to impact of additional inventory, pulse on management, resources office will require in order to manage…that

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approach where we have our hand on it is LTP, possibly an ad hoc committee… Administrative role is definitely out there…what if it is someone within fellowship? Administrative duties are to reach each vendor every year to ensure they pay for trademark usage. There is another issue to not stamp “officially licensed w/CA” for an outside vendor to reap bene from. We need to be cognizant to not tell areas what to do. We must educate areas re licensing and what that means. Chocolates and game board got this started. We need to consider enforcement piece of this and the administrative roll out. Remember too that in the agreement, should include language that they cannot say that this is officially licensed by CA. Maybe a trial for one year. We are not the jewelry store though and wso should not get into it- ok at world conventions perhaps.

Rename topic? No, Leave it the way it is and allow the people working on it percolate on it

  1. Trustee voting procedure (Cynthia, Tony, Teri)

Status – Procedure at assembly – re: slates…Understand confusion, but suspended rules and didn’t know it, and it worked…Teri removes herself from this issue…Jay seeks to work on this issue – Since this is Regional Trustee issue, all regional trustees are asked to work online and report at next Quarterly Meeting .

  1. Atlantic North/European Region (Jackie)

Status – Tabled until February/Winter quarterly

  1. Further changes to pg 6.6 – 6.7 of the WSM (Tony, Jay, Teri)

Status – Ties in with referral already on agenda – addressed at next Quarterly Meeting

  1. Further define WSBT Chair participation during quarterly meetings (Teri)

Status – Went through chair guidelines, but doesn’t have feeling in regards to opening remarks…best to try this again, do to board’s first experience at this was last Quarterly…online agenda for consideration, where information will be reported.

  1. Process to address ratification of current WSBT members (Teri)

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Status – this may be in reference to non-radification but didn’t want this listed as such…do not remember exactly, but think they were two distinctly different issues…remove this for time being.

  1. Professional event coordinator for CAWS 2007 (Earl)

Status – Tabled pending WSOB response – asked John if he was given any insight on this at last WSOB meeting, but none given. Think 2005, 2006, and 2007 will be lean years. Wants to have this for Earl to address at next Quarterly Meeting

  1. General sharing session of WSBT (Jay)

Tabled to November 2004 quarterly

Status – due to no response, remove please

  1. Update current policy regarding transfers to prudent reserve (Teri)

Tabled to November 2004 quarterly –

Status –Motion to update current policy for transfer of prudent reserve. Second

Amendment: Motion to update current policy for transfer of prudent reserve, no monies transferred from prudent reserve without prior approval of WSBT. Accepted friendly amendment.

Motion to update current policy for transfer of prudent reserve, no monies transferred from prudent reserve without prior approval of WSBT.Fails 

  1. Delegate Transportation for Upcoming Conference 2005 (Jay/Jackie)

Status –handout was posted online, agenda item #11…issue of insurance…up to company as to whether WSOB… refer to online item…opinion of agent can be done but still some problems. we looked at it but can’t do it. This takes care of this item, therefore can be removed.

  1. Update WSBT Chair Responsibilities (Teri)

Status –Removed at current time until figured out where/what this references.

  1. WSBT statement regarding Co-Anon (Jay)

Status –refer to handout – on agenda to keep WSBT up to speed; should it be kept on agenda or removed? $15 vs $3? What is affiliation? What has evolved at WSOB level? Do we need to change it revisit it, leave it be? Few years back, board revisited issue of Co-Anon and their relationship with CA. Trying to get with past

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trustees, but haven’t received information…would like to have a little more time to see if this is something we need to continue researching. John wants to be included in research of this issue. Refer to attached handout for detailed info in regards to money being tranferred between CA and Co-Anon that has created confusion by those on WSBT. Update at next Quarterly Meeting (Jay, Tony, Jackie, Teri, John).

NEW BUSINESS

  1. Date/time for the next WSBT conference call (All)

Motion for conference to be on January 9, 2005, at appropriate GMT, 1:00 PST, Second, Pass 

  1. Date/time for next WSBT quarterly meeting (All)

Motion for WSBT to be held February 18-20, 2005. Second. Passed. 7:00 p.m. PST on Friday as start time, ending at 1:00 p.m. Sunday.

  1. WS Trustee service as CAWS Conference Committee Trustee (John)

Motion to remove requirement that the WST serve on the Conference Committee. Second. Passed.

Jay would have been happy to have gone onto this project, in spirit of rotation. Bobbie speaks in favor of it. John has been asked to revise guidelines, present at next Quarterly Meeting.

  1. Group Inventory (All) Off The Record with only WSBT Members present.

This is placed on agenda early, placing it into mid-new business until it comes up, proceed with discussing it now, and would be open to moving it to another position.

Motion to Table until Noon Sunday…no second required…Passed.

  1. What the WSBT learned about and from its Calgary decision including exercise of its 10th concept rights (Jay)

Individual growth and Board growth, process from Conference Floor experience. Reading statement was thought to be ok, but it wasn’t Ok…preparation was not adequate before going to the Conference floor. These emergency powers should not be used very often, would hate to see the Board have to use the 10th Concept again. As a whole, there were concerns about Calgary…good things have come out

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of this situation as to what they need to do and what the delegates need to do… have concerns that it will be a long time before Convention can be outside U.S., concerns on how this hurts unity and growth…there are people who respect the trustees and they understand we did what we had to do. Besides the expense, it was a trial by fire, procedurally… pretty strong influence of those outside the board and concerns in terms of internal procedures and time management… once decision was made and conveyed to fellowship, it was not the most personal and geniuine way to convey it. At Conference we were not prepared, then went back into session to come up with another statement, then decided to just speak directly to the floor; why wasn’t it done in that fashion in the beginning? Need to be more prepared with first report, then if there are any issues that we do our homework and know what floor questions might need to be addressed…people on our board felt like they were targets in personal sharing, and although we try to not convey that, sometimes it says it all by reacting on what is conveyed and not what is stated…make it clear it will ultimately be for good of greater whole in order to promote unity. Saw God in mix in very end..this was decision that trustees had to make. First principle is about honesty…just tell them the truth…It was from the heart, where honesty comes…when none of us are in denial we know its financial first. Convention keeps us where we (CA) can function. In this arena, its business…but in that arena it has to be straight from the heart…this was done so WSO can function due to Calgary not being financially feasible. Although we fumbled initially, once we were able to give detailed facts, we were able to assist the Conference in understanding our process and reasoning…in hindsight we might have been able to handle this better…this wasn’t easy, already felt bad about the decision we had to take, which was the right decision…as leaders we must sometimes have to take/make these hard decisions and be the bad guy in order to do the right thing. Rallied early, took a stand early, tried to get information out to areas, and fumbled on 1 yard line, but feel no matter what we said, it really wouldn’t have mattered what we said…sometimes we must step back and take a pause, make the right decision, it was awkward, it didn’t feel good or look good, and yes, we are accountable…this was clearly thought out, documented… someday it won’t matter where in the world the convention is, because the money required will come from other areas and the convention will be there for a good time. We can work as a board and complete 10th Concept decisions when necessary. Its ok to be uncomfortable and unpopular, growth is not always comfortable, but God was in the mix.

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6.   Discussion and perhaps a decision on filling the second TAL position (Jay)

Status – This came from TEC is there an opening or not…no funding is available at current time, and we should simply formalize it at this time.

Point of information…decided in past board to not fill second TAL position and to look at this issue annually.

Motion to not fill TAL # 2 at the conference in 2005 to be revisited the following year. Second, Passed

7. Signing the one page compliance letter that we have to do as set forth in our bylaws

Status – Bylaws have clause to sign ratification of bylaws, signing statement takes care of this.

Completed at this meeting, as required

  1. A report on an issue in Arizona re: a possible tradition problem (Jay)

Status – Posted report –His response to matter is also in report.. what should right of group be? Have had 3 calls that traditions from CA have been violated.

Point of information… it really isn’t our issue. When fellowship is advised they can take it to the board for discussion…it can be returned to them at this time, stating we have discussed the issue and advise them that it is not one of our issues.

9. Do we need to formally approve the Trustee NewsGram articles? (Jay)

Status – came up due to so much going on, simply only had one person’s name on it, should it go to full WSBT.

parliamentary inquiry – how late are we going? After this issue is spoken to we will adjourn for the evening.

Isn’t sent until firm/full consensus. No. Can write an article and submit it to NewsGram. Any NewsGram article written by the trustees does not require approval from board.

As it is late, like to review agenda which items to discuss at this meeting or move to online or next Quarterly meeting: Motion to adjourn at 12:45 until 9:00 a.m. Second, Passed

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Sunday, November 20, 2004 – 9:00 a.m.

Called to order with Moment of Silence – Serenity Prayer 

10. A more formal system of labeling documents for posting and circulating them among the WSBT (Jay) Status – Online discussion 

11. Discussion regarding who should chair the regional assemblies and perhaps a motion related thereto (Jay)Status – Online discussion 

12. Singleness of purpose question from Kerrville, TX (Jay)Status – A member has asked questions…before responding, thought board should be advised and discuss…refer to attachment…People often get confused when going to the different fellowships…we don’t have singleness of purpose due to the umbrella of CA. There is literature in place that should assist this individual…i.e. choosing your sponsor.Since item has been clearly been assisted with, we will remove it at this time. 

13. Proposed revision to WSBT Reimbursement Policy (Teri)Status – Online discussion 

14. Texas Area Matter re delegate (Jay)This is for discussion no motions neededPoint of information: Apparently a letter is coming with details. Party involved spoke w/Patty and was told she needed to write a letter; she intends to send it to the WSBT, area chair, regional trustee.WSBT chair made it clear that Patty is a paid worker for CA, and is in perfect agreement with decision for her written concerns. Inquiry was handing properly. Minutes could be provided if the letter arrives.

15.   An issue in Arizona  involving the relationship of a CA Club to the CA
group that meets there. (Jay) Strike Item 15 – Item 16 now becomes Item 15.

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15. Nonsmoking/ smoking issue and tobacco as a mind altering substance
-from Oklahoma (Jay)Status –refer to written materials as a starting placePoint of information – why was it felt it ends up here? Response: A motion was made to make meeting a non-smoking meeting, was ruled out of order. When met informally with originator, advised him, but was still asked to bring it to WSBT. Board Response: according to tradition 4 this is an autonomy issue. Traditions 2, 3, 5, and 10 could also be considered.There are laws already in place in many areas that state there is no smoking allowed and members must go outside to smoke due to these regulations. The fellowship should respect those around them; compromise might be to limit length time for the meetings to 90 minutes with a break so those who smoke may do so without interrupting meeting process.

16. Examine delegating authority re: translations. Status – Online discussion

17. “Newsflash” concerns regarding conflicting information in terms of who it is coming from – not sure what this is about, therefore may be removed upon being able to review.Status – Online discussion 

18. Revisit the revised responsibilities of the trustee finance committee Status – Online discussion

19. Revision of Service resume – Trustee Election Committee – refer to handout with draft Motion to approve the revised TEC service resume, second, Point of Information – Procedural? – – Is everyone expected to use this form instead of how they have submitted resumes in the past? If this passes, then the TEC should submit this new revision to the delegates in the mailing… what if the delegates didn’t know that it had to be on this form? It is up to the trustee to advise delegates of use of this form, therefore we would suggest TEC might have group conscience as to whether or not to accept a resume not on the form…further clarification of special skills is suggested.

Amendment:

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Substitute – what particular areas of expertise from your education, current or past profession, could be of benefit to WSBT for “special skills”. Friendly Amendment was accepted.

Motion to approve the revised TEC service resume, substituting “ what particular areas of expertise from your education, current or past profession, could be of benefit to WSBT for “special skills”. PASSES

20. TEC interview schedule – Status – next Quarterly meeting

21. Leadership of CAWS 2007 Status – Online discussion

22. Website violations when language cannot be read…guidelines –JackieApproval of non-English websites – Sweden has a small website that was created. They now have the CA logo and have gone through the Webmaster for thought. However, this is in Swedish and not sure about translation of this…where are the checks and balances that can be used to ensure that this translation is accurate, even though there are only a couple of lines of dialog?Response: The way it is set up, what is required is not in violation of anything, and this will be an ongoing situation. We want to get this up and going; we do not want to hinder their growth, but we want to ensure the quality is not compromised and they are not going to be violating our rules and traditions. May be as simple as getting on the phone with someone and reading through it with them to ensure they are not outside of these guidelines. The disclaimers have been given to the Swedish delegation, but, as advised, it is not listed on there to date.Point of Information – are the guidelines translated in such a fashion for them to understand what we want them to know? Could we create a bare bones kit of what is expected on an attachment to the CA.org site? The guidelines would direct their intent and content.

Point of Information – The newly formed outreach committee might be the area to discuss this, and trust that this area can assist. Could we create a type of certification form ensuring the disclaimers are out there? Especially until we are all well versed with the different languages that are appearing. Let the WSOT speak out to this; WSOT should be advised to follow up. The Chair will send to WSOB to give us a status in regards to the translations…CC: WSOT, WSOB, Patty, and

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set up structure for future. Will continue to have updates throughout the year in regards to this issue. 

23. LCF committee members submitting stories Status – storybook committee has been doing great job, yet a couple of the stories that are of concern may be going into the book. The story submissions have all been anonymously reviewed thus far. All identifying information is removed by the committee’s trustee and each story is assigned a number before being sent to the committee for review. When a committee member reads a story and recognizes the author, if their relationship with the author is such that they feel they have a conflict of interest, they recuse themselves from voting on that story. In the committee trustee’s observations, everyone has recused themselves appropriately thus far. The committee has discussed the potential for controversy and feels there is no problem with the existing submission/selection process, particularly given the limited number of story submissions meeting the selection criteria. Strictly speaking, in order to avoid controversy we would prefer to see committee members not submitting stories, due to the potential for conflict of interest, but we respect the committee’s delegated authority. Board to simply evaluate content both now and in the future. Jay has been assisted with result of this conversation. Continual updates will be forthcoming.

24. New WSBT sub-committee To discuss international structure/development {Jackie}

Motion to create a new WSBT sub-committee {to be named International structure & development} second.Discussion: Point of information – would the definition /purpose be created at this time or later? Response: After meeting, purpose to be defined later.

Amendment: whose charge is to examine structure trademarks, expansion, development, language issues across our fellowship internationally. Accepted.

Motion to create a new WSBT sub committee whose charge is to examine structure trademarks, expansion, development, language issues across our fellowship internationally (to be named International Structure & Development). Passed.

Bobbie, Cynthia, Jon, Jackie, Jay are all willing to work on this sub-committee. Progress of sub-committee will be reported.

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25. CA Jewelry {Carl} Status – Online discussion

26. The participation of the WSOB at the Quarterly BTB {Jay} Status – Online discussion

27. Review the way this board meets 4 times per year and change to holding 3times per year for 4 days – Status – next Quarterly Meeting

28. Items to be brought to the WSBT for discussion – CarlStatus – An issue has been brought up several times: bringing up issues of things brought up with early AA association and what other Trustees bring into board meeting. As a new trustee, sometimes feels that after he receives group collective response to this, he already knew the answer, but lacked the confidence, and wanted to receive comments and feedback. This is the place we can come to share this and learn what we are to do in these situations. As members of this body, we must listen to what the fellowship has to say and be attentive to that.Response: – When becoming a trustee, servants from the local level become the servants at this level. Would rather know there is support of the entire board so mistakes will not be made. If fellowship doesn’t like an individual trustee’s response, they will still bring a request for response to the trustee board for the answer. It is known we don’t fix the problems, but the board should know what is going on in fellowship. There is balance when we can share and exchange experience. Maybe that’s something we can develop and structure our time so fellowship issues can be shared. If facts are discussed here and if we learn we are unable to deal with them on one agenda we might be able to move it to another agenda to deal with the issue. Since the board chair sets the agenda, will not exclude any item from agenda…when asked for agenda items, they will be added. It is important to have the information before hand. It should be known that if the item is one that could be placed to end of agenda, prioritized, placed on issue discussed online, at another instance. Effective use of our time will be a consideration and is a very effective tool. Advanced description and detail will better manage our time and the best time we can provide. Level set the playing field – we commit to responding to issue in less than 30 days and remember to communicate with the person submitting request that, if unable to get to issue prior to 30 days, then at least they know they do not slip through the cracks and will be

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addressed at another time. After they get our collective group conscience, fellowship may still take it elsewhere because they didn’t receive the answer they were seeking. Nothing is too trivial, but we must find the right time to share this.  

Motion to take tabled item of group inventory and proceed now, second, passed. 

Recorded Meeting Adjourned to hold group inventory.

Closed with Serenity Prayer 12:45 p.m.

Appendices and reports to supplement the minutes: See PDF: 2004-11-19-21-WSBT-Quarterly-Approved-Minutes.pdf

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