CLOSING REPORT
C.A. WORLD SERVICE CONFERENCE 2017 LITERATURE, CHIPS AND FORMATS REPORT
INTRODUCTION AND OPENING COMMENTS
The majority of this committee’s efforts deal with literature that aids the membership in applying and understanding the 12 Steps and Traditions; that carries the message to the addict who still suffers; that supplies valuable information to the professionals with whom our members would most likely come into contact; and that clarifies the nature of addiction to the general public.
Due to the devastation of hurricane Harvey our Chairperson, Rose, was not able to attend this year’s WSC. Our thoughts and prayers are with her and all those affected by this tragedy. In her absence, Jason L. stepped in as Acting Chair.
Committee Introductions
Chair: Rose G.
Acting Chair: Jason L.
Vice-Chair: Chiel B.
Co-Secretaries: Ricky M./Justin C.
WSBT Member: Kevin M.
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Project Leads:
12 Concepts Inventory Pamphlet Rob W.
12 Step Companion Guide Devin R-F.
12 Steps and 12 Traditions Jason L.
12 Traditions and Concepts Illustrated Ricky M.
H.O.W. pamphlet Justin C.
Meeting Formats Ryan A.
GSR Pamphlet Chiel B.
Group Pamphlet Ricky M.
Thus We Grow Daily Principles Card Justine K.
One Week Chip Marshal S.
Members:
Rebekah O.
Terry L.
Brenda M.
Ron S.
Cynthia C.
Elizabeth S. S.
Linda M.
Thea R.
COMMITTEE WORK THAT RESULTED IN MOTIONS
None
REFERRALS THAT RESULTED IN MOTIONS
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Ricky M. – Motion to approve referral number LCF 2017-3.
- 1. Referral Number LCF 2017-3: From Johan T. Sweden Area (In-Conference)
So, for some time, during our rapid growth in Sweden we identified an opportunity to
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give new groups some form of additional information on top of meeting formats and the chores of the service members.
First, we translated the World Service Manual, thinking that this would be good. We used our (by Kern approved) translator. During the proofread phase, we talked to several members and the verdict was that it actually is not the fact that it is in English that is the problem. The problem is that it is (really) big and a heavy read. Then we decided to make a larger “welcome letter” to all new groups on how things works when it comes to service in the Sweden Area. It is a good idea, and that works well.
But…
I have decided after discussing with many members that our whole fellowship would be helped by making a pamphlet/brochure or whatever the correct terminology would be. So this referral is a suggestion of making such a publication. It is to explain group level in detail and how the area with broad strokes from a service perspective, but not the whole manual, if you are to do district, area or world service it is suggested that you get the WSM. I am sure that this would be a great help to the member to understand how groups works, to the group of how the service structure is built and to the area to achieve growth and stability.
I suggest that a table of contents could be:
Chapter 1 How to use this book
- – Welcome, why this was written, understanding the importance of service
Chapter 2 Primary purpose of CA
- – A short description of PP and why that is so important
Chapter 3 Introduction
- – The group level, service how, why
- – Difference between a meeting and a group.
- – How do I become a member (+ homegroup)
- – Types of meeting
- – Yes you can also start a CA-meeting Chapter 4 Steps / Traditions / Concepts
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- – 12 Steps, 12 Traditions, 12 Concepts
Chapter 5 The Group
- – Definition of a group, requirements and so forth- 7th tradition
- – What to think about, experience from others
- – Service positions, and. Their chores
Chapter 6 Principles
- – Spirit of rotation, self-supporting, no outside issues, and so on
Chapter 7 The Area
- – This section will contain an understandable explanation of an area.
- – Area specifics, each area will be able to update
- – Districts, contact info
- – Area, contact info, 7th tradition suggestions and instruction
Chapter 8 Templates
- – Meeting formats
- – Group inventory
- – Business meeting
- – Probably some more too.
- – Download link/address for local fellowship.
This is by no means a complete gathering of topics/pages for this publication, merely an outline of thoughts.
Seconded.
Vote 15 – For 141, 3 against. Motion passed.
*****
***** Marshall S. –
MOTION: With reference to, Referral Number LCF 2017-3, Motion to approve the concept of a “The C.A. Group” booklet.
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- 2. Referral Number LCF 2017-4: From Will B. English Speaking C.A. Spain Area (In-Conference) To Create a 1-week clean time chip/keyring.
Seconded.
Joanna H. – Why does it seem to cost the fellowship a lot of money to make a 1-week chip?
Jason L. – We look at this as a revenue stream.
Ernest M. – Speak in favor of the motion. This chip is really something special to the newcomer. Northern California has some 1-week chips.
Carl R. – Speak against the motion. Does not see the need for it. We have the newcomer chip.
Stuart – How many newcomer chips do we get manufactured?
Jason L. – We have to defer to World Service Office Director of Operations.
Linda F. – We order sobriety chips in English every other month. We order 8,000 to 10,000 newcomers. 5,000 30 days, 3,000 60 to 90 days. We go through newcomer chips very rapidly.
Paul S. – Speak in favor of this motion. We see newcomers come in and disappear. I think we have lost the opportunity to carry the message to the newcomers. I think this could give them a boost. There could be financial cost, but we are finding a way to keep the newcomers to keep coming back.
Kevin M. – God willing, I will have 30 years. I remember when I first came around, and I never want to do it again. The newcomers need members to interact with them. The first 30 days is so important.
Stu E. – Is this motion out of order because it has no financial impact to the fellowship? Trevor S. – It’s in order.
Tom P. – I speak against the concept. I have slept in jail for 7 days. We remove 3 weeks of newcomer chips that would have a great financial impact on the fellowship.
Henry A. – I speak in favor of the motion. It would help C.A. I would like for this motion to be considered in all of areas.
Loni S. – I speak in favor of this motion. If you do H&I like I have, when I return I have seen the excitement in their eyes when they have 1 week. Newcomers look forward to milestone chips.
Maria K. – Do other fellowships have 1-week chips or is this just a C.A. initiative? Jason L. – In A.A. (UK), they have day chips.
Peter O. – I speak in favor of this motion. I remember the first day I received my chip, I was so excited. I was in a meeting and they mentioned 18 months we did not have a chip then.
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Joni E. – I speak against the motion.
Yves W. – Why did the committee spend so much time on this concept and we already have this concept?
Carla S. – I have been to a lot of 12 step stores, and they have all kinds of day chips and 1-week chips. From a marketing standpoint, I do not see how we could lose money. I am in favor of the motion.
Melissa L. – Speak against motion. I am thinking about the ramifications of groups that don’t have a large 7th tradition. They take their group in a meeting hall where most of the members are homeless. To add a 1-week chip it would take away from the group’s 7th Tradition.
*****
Jimmy Y. – Call the question.
Vote 16 – 126 for, 30 against, motion passed to close debate.
*****
Trevor S. – Re-read motion.
MOTION: With reference to, Referral Number LCF 2017-4, Motion to approve the
concept of a “One Week Chip.”
Vote 17 – For 89, 69 against. Motion passed.
*****
Natalie W. – 5th concept statement. I think that this committee’s time could have been better spent. I feel this way because of our finances. I had 14 months when I came into the program this is why I feel this way.
- 3. Referral Number LCF 2017-7: Referral from John B. CAUK Area (In-Conference) A lot of members at our group conscience have asked if C.A. can have a “just for today” card, along the lines of the one that exists in AA. It is felt that this could be of great help to the newcomer as it is at present to many in AA.
*****
Justine K. made the motion.
MOTION: With reference to, Referral Number LCF 2017-7, Motion to approve the
concept of creating a “Thus We Grow” daily principles card.
Seconded.
Michael C. – Is it a “Just for Today” card?
Jason L. – The “Just for Today” card is an A.A. card. We would like to call our card “Thus We Grow.”
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Sherman – I speak against the motion. We are reinventing the wheel. Why do we have to reinvent the wheel?
Rodney D. – I do not know what a “Just for Today” card is?
Jason L. – It is only produced in the UK. It is a series of ideas, folds up, and goes in your wallet. A newcomer can keep this card with them. It may help the newcomer. We are just trying to carry the message to the newcomer.
Rose J. – Speak in favor of this motion. I don’t believe we are trying to copy cat. We are trying to get the message out to the newcomer and get our message out to the fellowship.
Petra L. – I speak in favor of this motion. When I was new, I took in everything that I received. Those little chips met so much to me. I think it is a great way to bring some more C.A. literature to the newcomer.
Carla S. – I speak in favor of the motion. In 1987, we have 5 pieces of literature. It would be amazing to have this additional piece for the newcomer. I am always in favor of more
C.A. literature.
*****
Jason L. – Call the question.
Vote 18 – For 143, 15 against. Motion passed, debate is closed. Vote 19 on original motion. For 136, 25 against. Motion passed.
*****
REFERRALS OR ITEMS TABLED UNTIL NEXT YEAR; AND ITEMS THE COMMITTEE WILL CONTINUE WORKING ON THROUGH THE YEAR
1. Referral Number LCF 2017 – 6: Referral from Stella B. Colorado Area (In- Conference) I would like the issue of safety within the rooms to be addressed through a pamphlet or even a blurb that could be added to the sample meeting format. AA recently released two readings on this topic and I believe it is very important to convey to our members that calling the police does not violate traditions and that we all have a responsibility to try to create a safe space for the newcomer. As we stay sober, we can see that time does not necessarily mean that someone is a good/safe person, but as a newcomer I remember thinking that if someone had time, they must be good and spiritually well. I had some painful experiences in early sobriety that were partly due to my false sense of security and naive belief that I could just automatically trust all people with time. I believe this is a big issue for many people (especially newcomer women) in the rooms and I have seen it take people out and deter them from coming back. I believe creating a reading on this topic is a small step in the right direction towards creating a safer space for our newer members.
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Response: Thank you for your referral. We have received another referral, LCF 2017-3, for the creation of a group pamphlet and look to incorporate your suggestion as we develop that.
REFERRALS OR ITEMS REFERRED TO OTHER COMMITTEES; WORLD SERVICE OFFICE, OR BOARD OF TRUSTEES
- 1. Referral Number LCF 2017 – 1: From Chiel C.A. H. (In-Conference) Referral: The creation of a C.A. App. Rationale: Since smartphones and apps are common place and are easy to access 24/7, C.A. might want to consider to utilize this platform. The potential in utilizing an app is amazing. However, I do suggest a relative small basic app. (see basic layer). It also should be maintenance free and its content should be therefore sustainable.
The app is quite expensive to create…. But because the app will be available worldwide to all our fellow members its very likely that it will at least break even. The app could be made available for a modest charge. (depending on the estimated numbers of buyers). Also, with the possibilities of in-app purchases it could become a long term revenue stream. (see additional possibilities).
If the basic app proves to be successful it can be easily expanded. Which is why I send this referral to every committee to consider it’s input. I believe every committee could also utilize the app for its specific task (see the examples next to the comities)
Basics layer could contain
-A quite peace (1 page a day)
-Clean-time-timer
-Worldmap with links directly to each countries websites etc.
-Donate button
-Pocket meeting (all read outs)
-12 steps and traditions Additional possibilities
-Newsgram
-A quite peace in app purchase
-Hope, faith & courage in app purchase
-Pamphlet in app purchases.
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-H&I space (H&I pocketmeeting, …?)
-Archive (365 daily facts about CA)
-PI Space (PSI, flyer,info distribution,….?)
-Unity space (….?)
-Worldwide Event agenda
-Speakertapes
Response: Upon consideration, we have decided to forward this to WSOB.
- 2. Referral Number LCF 2017-2: From Stu E. Southern Nevada Area (In-Conference). This has been an ongoing discussion at conference for the last few years. I would like to see the 11th tradition state “our public relations policy is based on attraction rather than promotion; we need always maintain personal anonymity at the level of press, radio, films, and social media”. Just because the other fellowships haven’t done this yet doesn’t mean that it is not the right time to do it. Any of our members who view social media on a daily basis can verify that breaking of anonymity is very common on the various social media venues. If we change the wording of this tradition that is commonly read at meetings if will receive the reinforcement that this needs to have a greater impact on our members, especially the newer ones who are just learning about this tradition.
Response: We have referred this to WSBT because we were made aware that they were already addressing this subject.
- 3. Referral Number LCF 2017-8: Referral from Maya B. Utah Area (In-Conference). I think we need to include “social media” in the 11th Tradition. This was not around when they were originally written, but should be added due to the potential issues that can arise concerning anonymity. I believe the term “social media” is universal and would encompass all the potential apps (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, etc) in all countries.
Response: We have referred this to WSBT because we were made aware that they were already addressing this subject.
- 4. Referral Number LCF 2017-10 Referral from Ron S. Wisconsin Area (In- Conference). Why doesn’t C.A. have something like specifically “Myths and Misconceptions” the attached document?
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Note, please know that the attached document it two pages long and will be given directly to LCF for review and comment.
Response: Thank you for the referral. We have forwarded this to the PI Committee, as this falls under the Cooperation with Professional Community section of Public Information.
REFERRALS THAT DID NOT RESULT IN MOTIONS
- 1. Referral Number LCF 2017-5 Referral from WSBT to LCF of a Referral from last
year’s Conference (last year number WSBT 2016-6) Original Referral by Stu E.
This is a follow up to a previous referral. I know you like suggestions so I suggest we replace our adapted version of AA’s Preamble with something like this:
Preamble: Cocaine Anonymous is a Fellowship of addicts and alcoholics who meet together to share our hope, faith, and courage for the purpose of staying sober and helping others achieve the same freedom. Everything heard at our meetings is to be treated as confidential. There are no dues or fees of any kind. To be a member, you only have to want to quit. We also exchange phone numbers, and give and seek support from one another between meetings. We are all on equal footing here. We are men and women of all ages, races and social backgrounds, with the common bond of addiction.
Many years of experience have demonstrated the value of one addict helping another. We use the Twelve Step Recovery Program because it has already been proven that the Twelve Step Recovery Program works.
Response: Thank you for your suggestion, we as a committee feel that the current preamble serves our Fellowship’s purpose. Therefore, we will not be working on an alternate preamble at this time.
- 2. Referral Number LCF 2017-9: Referral from Jill E. Wisconsin Area (In-Conference). Review, update and revise the document entitled “Traditions Group Inventory” document. Particular attention being given to the questions asked under each Tradition. Example: Does Tradition 11 need to be updated to include references to Social Media? This document has not been updated since 2001, as listed within the document. Apologies for not having more specific information – I forgot about this until today.
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Response: Thank you for your suggestion. With reference to the Tradition 11 question of
the Traditions Group Inventory, the current verbiage reads, “Do I understand the
importance of personal anonymity when dealing with the media?”, appears to be all encompassing it deals with all media. Therefore, we do not see the need to make a revision at this time. If there are any other changes that you believe need to be made with respect to other items please submit another referral.
- 3. Referral Number LCF 2017-11: Referral from Earnest M. Northern California Area (In-Conference). Create a pamphlet about relationships in recovery, please.
Response: Thank you for your referral. We do not believe that this is a subject which Cocaine Anonymous is qualified to give advice on. Therefore, we will not be taking this referral forward.
NEW COMMITTEE STRUCTURE AS OF THIS CONFERENCE
Chair Rose G.
Vice-Chair Petra L.
Secretary Ricky M./Justin C. CLOSING COMMENTS
Your Literature, Chips, and Formats Committee works conscientiously throughout the year on numerous projects. Our lead on the12-Step Companion Guide, Devin R-F. was unable to attend this year due to circumstances beyond his control. His subcommittee continues to move forward with the project and has advanced towards the goals we set out earlier this year. We collectively decided to propose a format we feel will satisfy the fellowship. The questions in the ‘12 Step Companion’ will be geared towards working
with a sponsor, through the suggestions laid out in the ‘Big Book’. We hope this will continue to foster the principle of one addict working with another. At this time, half of the Step sections have been worked up as edited drafts.
We are pleased to report that one of our newest pamphlet projects, `Honesty, Open- Mindedness and Willingness’ is moving to ‘Point 7’ in the ‘Pamphlet Approval Process’ as we are now handing it over to the Trustees for their review. We hope to have a draft sent
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out with the SR-14 Mailing next year for your consideration. Progress is also being made on the ‘GSR Pamphlet’ and ’12 Traditions and Concepts Illustrated.’ We will continue to work diligently on our ‘12 Step and 12 Traditions book’, ‘In The Light of Our Experience’ and look forward to working closely with the Archive Committee on this endeavour. We are also very excited about several new projects including; ‘C.A. Group Booklet’, ‘Thus We Grow Daily Principles Card’ and ‘One Week Chip.’
It has been my honour to step in as Acting Chair at this Conference whilst Rose G. has been unable to attend. The whole Committee has pulled together at this time. I have served on the Literature Chips and Formats Committee since my first year at Conference and it continues to be an inspiration. We have a great group of experienced members who have been joined this year by a number of enthusiastic incoming Delegates. The Committee is robust as we move forward in serving the Fellowship that we love. Our literature is one of our greatest assets in carrying out our primary purpose and as C.A. matures we are very pleased to assist in refining and expanding these tools of recovery.
I would like to thank all The Committee members, including those who are not present but work tirelessly throughout the year between Conferences. Thank you so much for allowing me to be of service.
Respectfully Submitted:
Jason L.
*****
David S. – Motion to reconsider the previous motion on the concept of a 1-week chip. Seconded.
Ernest M. – Parliamentary Inquiry – Mr. Chair is that on a concept? Trevor S. – Yes. It is on a concept.
David S.– Speak in favor. The vote was close. There were still a lot of questions. I would like to hear them.
Carla S. – Our groups are very diverse from one Area to another. We are trying to approve the idea. I think we should not reconsider this vote.
Jimmy Y. – Speak against the motion.
Ricky M.– I think we should be allowed to do what we were asked to do.
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Yves W. – I speak in favor of the motion. If it is really a need for the chip for our fellowship, then we should move forward.
Kevin M. – Speak against the motion. 1) We had quite a bit of discussion. 2) The vote
was not that close. 3) I don’t see the point of this.
Maya B. – Speak against the motion to reconsider. We are only asking for permission to move forward.
Wade S. – Speak against the motion to reconsider. We always have new members on
our committees. I don’t think we should squash ideas.
Jason L. – Speak against the motion to reconsider. We did discuss it a lot. It is only a concept that was approved.
*****
Nathan H.– Calling the question. Seconded.
Vote 20 – For 128, 30 against. Motion passed to end debate. Trevor S. – Re-read motion.
Vote 21 – For 16, 137 against, motion to reconsider did not passed.
*****
Anne M. – There was a concept approved for a C.A. booklet earlier. Will you be working with Structure and Bylaws?
Jason L. – No. We will be following our guidelines.
Stu E. – Do the guidelines that we have for a creating a concept restrict us for the 1- week chip?
Jason L. – We will be working with the World Service Office. This will not stay with us long.
Henry A. – I have a question regarding a referral on social media and traditions. Why are you referring it to World Service Board of Trustees?
Jason L. – World Service Board of Trustees advised us that they were already looking into this referral.
Yves W. – At the Office, we have a lot of chips. Do I have to go to Literature, Chips and Format to have a 50-year chip produced?
Kevin M. – This would have to go to the World Service Office. Sequential chips do not need this body’s approval, but other special chips would need approval by the World Service Conference.
Stu E. – Would you consider producing a bookmark for H&I, such as a 1-week bookmark?
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Kevin M. – There is already procedures in place that H&I uses to create items for H&I based on Conference approved items.
Albina K. – This is my first year, where is the committee on the production of the 12 Steps and 12 Tradition book?
Jason L. – We have the whole format for the book. We are looking to capture our experience. We are reviewing all our previous NewsGram articles and pulling out some articles to include in the book. Listening to C.A. Convention CD’s. I was the Lead on that project. I had serious health issues and had to step back from the project for awhile. We are back on track now. We are looking at the right tone to write the book. If anyone is interest, please come and assist us.
Anne M. – I want to thank the committee for all of your hard work that you do throughout the year. Regarding the Tradition 11 referral, it states that it should be referred to the World Service Board of Trustees. Is this why you referred it to the WSBT?
Jason L. – Yes.
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Trevor S. – It is 2:50P and we will be taking a 10 minute break.
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