The S.L.A.A. Fellowship-Wide Services , Inc. 2002 Annual Business Meeting (ABM) Tuesday, July 30-Friday, August 2, 2002 Mission San Luis Rey, Oceanside, CA Minutes Conference Theme: 12th Tradition of S.L.A.A.: "Anonymity is the spiritual foundation of all our Traditions, ever reminding us to place principles before personalities." Present were 48 voting members that included nine members of the Board of Trustees (BOT), The Journal Editor, the FWS General Manager (GM), three FWS office staff members, and 34 delegates from Intergroups and groups in the United States and Rome, Italy. Also participating in this year's event were one observer and several volunteers from the host Intergroup, San Diego Intergroup, as well as volunteers from the Orange County Intergroup. The FWS Office and several Board and Conference Committees submitted reports to the ABM. The following list of reports appeared in the participants' Welcome packets: * Fellowship-Wide Services Office Annual Report (inc. staffing, outreach, LDSP, world directory, office operation, finances, balance sheet, expense comparison report, Long Distance Sponsorship, Journal, and credit card statistics) * Board of Trustees Final Report * Board Copyright Committee (inc. DRAFT version of FAQ on S.L.A.A. copyright issues) * Board Human Resources Committee * Board Legal Committee * Board Literature Committee * Board Newsletter Committee * Board Nominating Committee * Board Office Operating Committee * Board Policy Committee * Board Public Information Committee * Board Steps and Traditions Committee * Conference By-Laws Committee * Conference Charter Committee (and Adopt-A-Committee Letter) * Conference Healthy Relationships Committee * Conference Intergroup Communication Committee (and Index of What Intergroups Do) * Conference Members Retention Committee * Conference Prison Outreach Committee * Conference Public Information Committee * Conference Sponsorship Committee * The Journal Committee Frequently used abbreviations: BMIS: Business Meeting Items Summary BOT: Board of Trustees CCC: Conference Charter Committee CSM: Conference Service Manual HP: Higher Power (?) In front of a motion indicates a motion that has passed. General Assembly -Tuesday, July 30, 2002 1-4:45pm Orientation was facilitated by Deborah W. (CCC co-chair and micro) and Marcella M. (BOT chair and macro). The back-up person was Robin S. (CCC Co-Chair). The secretary of this session was Andrew H. The meeting opened with a moment of silence for those that still suffer from sex and love addiction, the Serenity Prayer, and readings of the 12 Steps and 12 Traditions. The delegation was reminded of the Conference theme: the 12th Tradition. The BOT and the CCC extended a welcome to all participants. Gratitude was expressed to the San Diego Intergroup for their hospitality and their service throughout the ABC. The colored ribbons attached to each nametag were explained, as were the resources available to each delegate. The room-seating configuration was a circle as voted in a previous ABM. The delegates present introduced themselves, as did the BOT and the CCC members, the Journal editor, and the FWS staff. The process of the general assemblies was reviewed. This included: Items to bring to each General Assembly, (BMIS, Revised CSM, additions to the BMIS, Higher Power); Two minute check-ins; Confirming the Quorum; Purpose and use of the microphone; Explanation of the roles and facilitation of the meeting (micro, macro, and backup) and other assigned roles (spiritual reminder, timekeeper, recorders, tapers, counters, secretary); Purpose of the 30 or 60 seconds of silence as a tool for remembering that HP is in control of the meeting; and Reinforcement of the concept of HP and group conscience. The Interactive Method of Community Problem Solving (the method of doing business at the ABM) was explained, specifically Phase I and Phase II. Participants were referred to page 44 in the CSM as a resource. Voting processes were described as modified Robert's Rules of Order with a minority opinion process. Quorum and the importance of attending each General Assembly were explained (there were 47 registered participants, needing a quorum of 32). A review of the schedule was held with corrections and additions to the schedule noted. Volunteers were asked to serve in several volunteer positions, e.g., facilitator of morning and afternoon getting current meetings, morning meditation, emcee for the SLAA Café and Talent Show, presenter for the speaker meeting and speaker panel, and hosts of the Wacky Meeting and the auction. Conference Member Count: 47 registered, 44 present in the room: quorum of 32 achieved. 15-minute break Verbal reports were presented to the Conference. Jenny R.W., F.W.S. General Manager, presented the report for the F.W.S. office. Information included: credit card statistics, the Journal statistics, Long Distance Sponsorship Program (LDSP) statistics, and budget information. Jenny reported that a new Office Administrator had been selected. The Chair of the BOT, Marcella M., gave the report for the BOT. Prior to the reports of Conference Committees, the micro referenced page 63 of the CSM for a description of each committee. Conference Committees then gave the reports, most of which were included in the welcome packets and attached at the end of these minutes. Conference Committee Reports were as follows (the person giving the report is in parenthesis): * Conference By-Laws Committee. (Wayne A.) Sam M., Texas, chair. The report was included in the packet. Reference was made to the BMIS items that would bring the By-Laws up-to-date with a process that has been accepted by BOT. * Conference Charter Committee. (Robin S., Co-Chair) The report was included in the packet. Jack S. also reported briefly on the Conference Newsletter (CN). He reported that he was serving as its Editor with a sub-committee for direction and support. * Conference Diversity Committee. This committee is inactive. * Conference Finance Committee. (Roger R.) There was no written report in the packet. Its main function was described and that the committee is looking for new members. He reported that all committees are working within their budgets. * Healthy Relationships Committee. (Camille S., Co-Chair) There was a written report in the packet. The committee invited new members and reviewed its mission statement and projects already underway (meeting format, pamphlet development). * Conference Intergroup Communication Committee. (Jack S., Chair) There was a report in the packet. The Chair reviewed its mission statement. * Conference Interfellowship Committee. There was no report. * Conference Internet Committee. This committee is inactive. * Conference Literature Committee. (Robin S., Chair) There was no written report available in the packet. The outstanding projects were inventoried. * Member Retention Committee. (Kim S., Co-Chair) There was a written report in packet. This committee was resurrected this year. The committee revised its committee charter/vision. This committee analyzed data from a previous survey with the intent to distribute to the Conference. The committee related a more in depth survey for gathering of reliable data in order to meet the needs of long-term members and for members to remain engaged and interested, with an emphasis on the Steps, service, and sponsorship. The committee invited new members to join the committee. * Prison Outreach Committee. (Kenn C.) There was a written report in packet. It was reported that the committee had one very active member and a few others. The toll free number was discontinued due to prison policies. * Conference Public Information Committee. (Andrew H., Chair) There was a written report in the packet. * Conference Service Committee. This committee is inactive. * Conference Sponsorship Committee. (Ellen S.) There was a written report available to the members, which was mistakenly left out of the ABM Welcome Packet. Cheryl S. is no longer a member. * Conference Steps and Traditions Committee. (Gaelen SR) BOT requested that the CSTC re-start the committee because some issues are better dealt with at the Conference level. When the reports concluded, the Interactive Method of Community Problem Solving, brainstorming, consolidation, motions, and voting were described in detail. In addition, the process for making a challenge to group conscience was described. Before a fifteen-minute break, one participant offered a correction to the Index of Motions, 97-16 on page M-38 of the CSM, which should read "F" for failed. 15-minute break After the break, the Practice Session began. Volunteers were asked to do the readings of the 12 Steps and 12 Traditions. Dee A., Rich O., Elbert D., and Camille S. served as the tapers. Sarah A. served as the timekeeper. Michael W. and Jerry V. served as the vote counters. Ellen S. served as the spiritual reminder. The micro and macro of the session were Marcella M. and Deborah W. The secretary was Andrew H. As a resource, the participants were asked to open their CSMs to p. 47. Once the Practice session concluded, a review of the evening schedule and announcements were done. The General Assembly ended for a meeting with the F.W.S. office staff and BOT members, "Getting To Know Your Office and BOT" with a moment of silence and the Serenity Prayer. General Assembly Reconvenes - Tuesday, July 30, 2002 6:30-8:15pm The General Assembly opened with the Serenity Prayer and the readings of the 12 Steps and 12 Traditions. Andrew H. served as the micro, Robin S., the macro, Wayne A., the back up, and Deborah W., the secretary. Other volunteers were: Michael W. and Jeff B. (vote counters); Dianne S. (timekeeper); and Jack S. (spiritual reminder). Instructions were given as to how to read the BMIS. An explanation of Phase I was given. Phase I began. The results of Phase I are summarized as follows: 02o03/98-18 Motion: That the ABM approve as Conference-Approved Literature the attached rewrite of Chapter 4 from our Basic Text and the Anorexia pamphlet, for publication as a separate booklet. (Jere B., Oberlin, OH/2001 CLC subcommittee) The CLC requested this item be tabled. 02o04/98-20 Motion: Change By-Laws, Article 5, Section 4 and Section 6 to read as [listed below]. "The Fellowship-Wide Services Conference will act as advisor to the Board of Trustees and its related service corporation. A two-thirds vote of a Conference quorum shall be considered binding upon the Board of Trustees. A quorum shall consist of two-thirds of all the conference members registered and seated. The number of conference members seated shall be the number of voting members signed in at any time during the course of the ABM. If an alternate replaces a seated conference member, the number of voting members does not change. However, no vote by the Conference may impair the right of the Augustine Fellowship, S.L.A.A., Fellowship-Wide Services, Inc., Board of Trustees to conduct business, meet legal obligations, and exercise its fiduciary obligations to the corporation. The Board ordinarily reserves the right to decide which of its actions or decisions may require the approval of the Conference." ('98 By-Laws Committee, in conjunction with the CCC) Tabled to Phase II 02o08/99-06 Motion: To add the following key words (noted in bold italics) to the list of major resources in the Preamble and order the list of resources as follows: 1) Sobriety. Our willingness to stop acting out in our own personal bottom-line addictive behavior on a daily basis. 2) Sponsorship/Meetings. Our capacity to reach out for the supportive fellowship within S.L.A.A. 3) Steps. Our practice of the Twelve Step program of recovery to achieve sexual and emotional sobriety. 4) Service. Our giving back to the SLAA community what we continue to freely receive. 5) Spirituality. Our developing a relationship with a Power greater than ourselves which can guide and sustain us in recovery. (Rich S., Denver, CO; Marcella M., Los Angeles CA) Tabled to Phase II 02o09/00-01 Motion: Extend official (Conference-Approved) invitation from the Inter-Fellowship Committee (IFC) to other "S" fellowships to attend and observe SLAA's 2000 ABM in Houston. For the purpose of this motion, the observers are not authorized to voice opinions/make statements on the floor at the General Assembly. ('00 IFC) Tabled to Phase II 02o10/00-02 Motion: Permit invited observers from other "S" fellowships to voice opinions/make public statements on any proceeding at SLAA's 2000 ABM. Invited observers from other "S" fellowships are not authorized to vote on any motions at the Committee or General Assembly levels. ('00 IFC) Tabled to Phase II 02o11/00-03 Motion: List on the official SLAA Website and in the FWS World Directory the "official" telephone numbers and URL's of other "S" fellowships. Add a disclaimer on the SLAA website and in the FWS World Directory (with it's next printing) noting "SLAA neither endorses nor recommends the following organizations, their sites and central office phone numbers are identified only to provide individuals with the opportunity to learn about other 12-Step, 12 Tradition recovery groups dealing with addiction to sex, love and relationships." ('00 IFC) Tabled to Phase II ? 02o15/00-08 Motion: Make corrective change in Article VI, Section 8 - [from the SLAA Bylaws for read as follows in italics:] Section 8 - Quorum A majority of the number of Trustees constituting the full Board of Trustees in office shall constitute a quorum. ('00 Conference Bylaws Committee) The micro read attachment #4. There were no questions or concerns. Vote: 45/1/1 The minority can live with the vote. The motion passes. 02o16/00-09 Motion: The Bylaws be changed for Article VI, Sections 2, 4, and 8 to read as [follows in italics:] Article VI - Board of Trustees Section 2 - Number, Tenure and Qualifications The regular number of Trustees shall be nine, but may be twelve during the overlap period of term completion for the three exiting Trustees and the beginning term for the three new Trustees. No Trustee shall serve... Section 4 - Election Paragraph 2 ...unused term. All BOT terms and related powers and responsibilities shall commence upon formal announcement of the aforementioned election results. The term shall continue through the conclusion of the Annual meeting, or meeting in lieu of said Annual meeting, three years after the commencement of the term - regardless of whether the Trustee fulfilled the term from its commencement or was appointed and confirmed to the term at a later date. Section 8 - Quorum A majority of the number of Trustees constituting the full Board of Trustees shall constitute a quorum, except during the overlap period, when the number of Trustees may exceed nine. During the overlap period, the majority of the nine Trustees prior to that year's election of Trustees shall constitute a quorum. The vote of all Trustees shall be equal to all other Trustees' votes. When a quorum is present... (Rob K., Tampa, FL). The micro read attachment #5. Tabled to Phase II 02o18/00-11 Motion: To approve the "Pocket Toolkit". ('00 Conference Literature Committee). Tabled to Phase II 02o21/01-05 Motion: Approve the [Crosstalk, Feedback & Triggering Language] pamphlet ('01 CLC). Tabled to Phase II per request of CLC. 02o22/01-06 Motion: Approve the [After-Slip Worksheet] pamphlet. ('01 CLC) Tabled to Phase II 02o23/01-08 Motion: Change the sentence in second paragraph of Page 259 of the SLAA Basic Text from "...I swore revenge and tried to humiliate him by accepting as a sex partner every black man who called me..." to "...I swore revenge and tried to humiliate him by accepting as a sex partner every man..." (Remove word "black"). (Chicagoland Intergroup) Tabled to Phase II 02o26/01-11 Motion: Create a fast-track for a completed literature title to be addressed by the Conference. After the CLC produces its final draft, let them submit it to the CCC for placement at the top of the next ABM agenda, or for decision-making between ABMs. (Rich S., Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, Mexico) Tabled to Phase II 02n27/02-01 Motion: Add "Thy will, not mine, be done," to the end of the Serenity Prayer wherever it appears in Conference-Approved literature, if it does not already exist. (Bob F., Cedar Creek, NE) Tabled to Phase II 02n28/02-02 Motion: Have two versions of the Basic Text. One anonymous - one not. BOT will create a version of the Basic Text (SLAA) that does not draw attention to itself: remove colors and page /chapter headers from this version only. Perhaps let this replace the 2001 brightly colored, embossed title version. ('02 Prison Outreach Committee) Tabled to Phase II 02n30/02-04 Motion: Add to future publications of the SLAA Basic Text and all pamphlets a SLAA recovery term index (see 25th Anniversary bookmark). Until this can happen, include index as insert with book orders. On pamphlets only include reference items that pertain to that pamphlet. (Tampa Bay Intergroup) Tabled to Phase II 02n31/02-05 Motion: Subject to adequate FWS resources for any given ABM, fund the travel cost for 2 international delegates from different points outside North America (U.S., Canada, Mexico). Other Conference fees to be raised by delegate's region. Delegates funded like this will not participate in the TEF (Travel Equalization Fund). Recipient delegates defined jointly by Conference and FWS. (Rome, Italy Group) Tabled to Phase II 02n32/02-06 Motion: In order to improve group conscious at the FWS level, the deadline for agenda items to the ABM shall be February 15, and agendas shall be mailed out by March 15. This will give members of the Fellowship time to consider issues on the agenda and provide feedback to their delegates. (San Francisco/East Bay Intergroup) Tabled to Phase II ? 02n33/02-07 Motion: Amend the by-laws approved by the BOT April 18, 1999 to correct typographical errors. A listing of the suggested corrections [are below.] * In the Table of Contents, the entry "Article VII - Corporation Officers, Section 3 - General Powers and Duties", is incorrect. The required correction is to renumber "Section 3" to "Section 5". * On page 2, Article II, line 1, the word "principle" is misspelled. The required spelling is "principal." * On page 4, Article V., Section 4, line 7 the wording "...actions of decisions..." is incorrect. The required wording is: "...actions or decisions...". * On page 4, Article V, Sections 5, subsection "l" is mismarked. The required marking is "i". * On page 5, Article V., Section 7, subsection "l" is mismarked. The required marking is "i". * On page 9, Article X, 1st paragraph, line 6, "...reasonable..." is misspelled. The required spelling is "...reasonably...". * On page 9, Article X, 3rd paragraph, lines 4 and 5, "...Article IX..." is incorrect. The required wording is "...Article X...". * On page 10, Article XIV, line 1, the wording "...vatted any regular..." is incorrect. The required wording is "...vote at any regular...". ('02 By-Laws Committee) The micro read attachment #10. There were no questions or concerns. Vote: 44/0/1 There was no minority opinion. The motion passed. ? 02n34/02-08 Motion: Amend the by-laws approved by the BOT April 18, 1999 to describe delegates and members as delegate members where suggested by the attorney. A listing of the changes [are below]. * On page 3, Article III, Section 3, line 3, change "Each member..." to "Each delegate member..." * On page 3, Article IV, Section 4.b, line 1, change "...delegates..." to "...delegate members...", and line 2, change "...delegate(s)..." to "...delegate member(s)...". * On page 4, Article V., Section 2, line 2, change "Delegates..." to "Delegate member(s)...". * On page 4, Article V, Sections 5.a thru k., throughout, change "...delegate(s)..." to "...delegate member(s)...". * On page 5, Article V., Section 6, throughout, change "...delegate(s)..." to "...delegate member(s)...". * On page 5, Article V., Section 7.l (sic), throughout, change "...delegate(s)..." to "...delegate member(s)...". * On page 5, Article V., Section 8.a thru c., throughout, change "...delegate(s)..." to "...delegate member(s)...". * On page 8, Article VI, Section 17.b, line 1, change "...delegate..." to "...delegate member...". ('02 By-Laws Committee) The micro read the attachment #11. There were no questions or concerns. Vote: 46/0/0 The motion unanimously passed. ? 02n35/02-09 Motion: Amend the by-laws approved by the BOT April 18, 1999 to incorporate wording changes suggested by the Conference By-Laws Committee. A listing of the changes [are below]. * Page 2, Article II - Place of Business, line 1, the address is incorrect. The required address is "1275 Providence Highway, Norwood, Massachusetts 02062". * Page 6, Article VI, Section 4, 1st paragraph, line 1, two places, change "...Annual Meeting..." to "...Annual Business Meeting..." to correctly identify the event. * Page 6, Article VI, Section 4, 2nd paragraph, line 1, change "Delegates..." to "Voters...", and line 2, change "...delegates..." to "...voters..." because the voting body (as defined in V.2) includes more than delegates. ('02 By-Laws Committee) The micro read attachment #12. There was one clarification question, but no questions or concerns. Vote: 45/0/2 There was no minority opinion. The motion passed. ? 02n36/02-10 Motion: Amend the by-laws approved by the BOT April 18, 1999 to incorporate two wording changes suggested by the Conference By-Laws Committee. A listing of the changes is attached. * On page 7, Article VI, Section 11, line 3, change "...make the rules..." to "...make rules...". * On page 7, Article VI, Section 11, line 5, change "...as nearly as may be in the same manner as is provided..." to "...in a manner to closely approximate the methods/procedures as are provided...". ('02 By-Laws Committee) The micro read attachment #13. There were no questions or concerns. Vote: 44/1/2 The minority can live with the decision. The motion passed. This concluded Phase I with 1/2 hour left in the session. The micro explained that new motions that have come in at the time of the motions deadline will be summarized, typed, and dispensed in the morning General Assembly (7/31/02). These new items will go through the Phase I process. However, there was time to begin the first item in Phase II, an issue for discussion. After a vote of the Conference, it was voted that we begin the next morning's session with Phase I on the newly submitted motions, then Phase II. After announcements, housekeeping reminders, and a review of the next day's schedule, the General Assembly ended for a Speaker Meeting. General Assembly - Wednesday, July 31, 2002 8:45-12noon The General Assembly opened with a moment of silence followed by the Serenity Prayer and readings of the 12 Steps and 12 Traditions by John D. and Jerry V. The micro for this session was Gaelen S. R. and the macro was Deborah W. The back-up person was Robin S. and the secretary was Andrew H. Volunteers for this session were: Sam A (timekeeper); Mike F. (spiritual reminder); Jeff B. and Judy J. (vote counters); Paul B., Diana L., Rhea O., and Paula B. (recorders), and Chaim F., Irv B., Rich O., and Lina N. (tapers). Four minutes was allotted for check-ins. The quorum (32) was met. Phase I continued from last evening's General Assembly with the newly submitted motions, those items submitted by 6:45 p.m. These items are summarized as follows: 02n37/02-11 Motion: Include in the ABM business process the Prioritization of business items instead of only considering items by the order of submission. (Esta Jo S., Philadelphia. PA) Tabled to Phase II 02n38/02-12 Motion: Limit the number of Issues for Discussion in any one year or limit the overall total time for discussion so more motions can be addressed. For example, have one day of discussion items which equal 5 hours, or have 5 discussion items lasting 1 hour. (Greater Delaware Valley Intergroup) Tabled to Phase II 02n39/02-13 Motion: Make the BMIS available in electronic form. (Greater Delaware Valley Intergroup) Tabled to Phase II 02n40/02-14 Motion: Create 2 more BOT positions (for a total of 11) to serve the fellowship. (Jack S., Largo, FL) Tabled to Phase II 02n41/02-15 Issue for Discussion No Recommendation Required: I understand there is a redesign of medallions for 12 Steps and a consideration to change the medallion makers for chips (a new forge). To broaden the scope of acceptance, rather than imprint "SLAA" on the obverse, print "Augustine Fellowship" or "The Augustine Fellowship." (Irv B., CT) Tabled to Phase II 02n42/02-16 Motion: FWS officially acknowledges the need for, support, and encourage privacy in its electronic mail communications and adopt PGP (Pretty Good Privacy) freeware to support this. (Jeff B., MA) Tabled to Phase II After the completion of Phase I, Phase II began. Phase II began with the following Issue for Discussion, Recommendation Required. 02o01/98-14 Issue for Discussion Recommendation Required: Letter from the Secretary of Seattle SLAA Anorexics regarding that groups use of Patrick Carnes' Sexual Anorexia: Overcoming Sexual Self-Hatred for a resource and regular readings in meetings. We would like this book to be sanctioned if not endorsed by the Conference as we use it. (Elaine N., for Seattle SLAA Anorexics Meeting.) Brainstorming the Problem (5 min.) 1) Lack of SLAA literature on Anorexia 2) More in depth information on Anorexia 3) Lack of suggested reading list vs. Conference-Approved literature 4) Lack of anorexia discussion in Basic Text and examples of anorexia in stories 5) More experience with Steps for all patterns of our addiction 6) Lack of meeting format for anorexia meeting 7) Encourage more anorexics to attend SLAA 8) Lack of anorexia on Characteristics of Sex and Love Addiction 9) All groups are autonomous, are free to make decisions at the group level 10) Anorexics need to share their experiences for others to relate 11) Encourages use of other books authored on issue and the use of non-Conference-Approved literature 12) Special interest meetings should be discouraged 13) Lack of clarity on outside resources 14) Book in question supports 12 Step process 15) Helps non-SLAA members identify with characteristics 16) Importance of tools to aid those still suffering Consolidating / Prioritizing In order to consolidate, the participants were asked if any of the brainstorming ideas needed to be removed from the list for not addressing the problems of the motion. There was no consensus on which items to remove. The list was then consolidated into three major categories: More and Better Information Available to Members (MI); Outside Literature (OL); and Traditions (TR). Brainstorming items are organized under these category headings as follows: More and Better Information Available to Members (MI) #1 Lack of SLAA literature on Anorexia #2 More in depth information on Anorexia #3 Lack of suggested reading list vs. Conference-Approved literature #4 Lack of anorexia discussion in Basic Text and examples of anorexia in stories #5 More experience with Steps for all patterns of our addiction #8 Lack of anorexia on Characteristics of Sex and Love Addiction #13 Lack of clarity on outside resources #16 Importance of tools to aid those still suffering Outside Literature (OL) #2 More in depth information on Anorexia #3 Lack of suggested reading list vs. Conference-Approved literature #9 All groups are autonomous, are free to make decisions at the group level #11 Encourages use of other books authored on issue and the use of non-Conference-Approved literature Traditions (TR) #9 All groups are autonomous, are free to make decisions at the group level #11 Encourages use of other books authored on issue and the use of non-Conference-Approved literature #12 Special interest meetings should be discouraged The next task, Prioritizing the Problem, was described. In addition, information about n/3 as a method of prioritizing was shared. The participants were asked to vote for the one issue that they believed best prioritized the problem. The vote was as follows: MI (39), OL (2), and TR (1). The participants were then asked to brainstorm solutions to the problem, More and Better Information Available to Members. Brainstorming the Solutions (5 min.) 1) Creating "Outside Literature Review Committee" 2) Create a list of works found helpful by members 3) Anorexics to write more literature about their experience for the Basic Text 4) Change business meeting format for timely approval of literature 5) Create a label for groups to identify non-Conference-Approved literature 6) Remind groups that in 2000 the Conference voted that this book was not wanted as Conference-Approved literature 7) List of recommended reading have limited number of items 8) Create a suggested reading list and tools as an aide 9) Add list of "Characteristics of Anorexia" to list of "Characteristics of Sex and Love Addiction" 10) Everyone write their thoughts on anorexia before leaving on Friday The participants were then asked to consolidate the list. All were asked if any items needed to be removed from the list as they do not address the solutions. There was no consensus on which items to remove. The list was then consolidated into four major categories: Encourage Members to Write (ENC); Create an Anorexia Committee (AC); Outside Literature (OL); and Violations of Traditions (VTR). Brainstorming items were organized under these category headings as follows: Encourage Members to Write (ENC) #3 Anorexics to write more literature about their experience for the Basic Text #4 Change business meeting format for timely approval of literature #5 Create a label for groups to identify non-Conference-Approved literature #10 Everyone write their thoughts on anorexia before leaving on Friday Create an Anorexia Committee (AC) #1 Creating "Outside Literature Review Committee" #3 Anorexics to write more literature about their experience for the Basic Text #7 List of recommended reading have limited number of items #8 Create a suggested reading list and tools as an aide #9 Add list of "Characteristics of Anorexia" to list of "Characteristics of Sex and Love Addiction" #10 Everyone write their thoughts on anorexia before leaving on Friday Outside Literature (OL) #1 Creating "Outside Literature Review Committee" #2 Create a list of works found helpful by members #5 Create a label for groups to identify non-Conference-Approved literature #7 List of recommended reading have limited number of items #8 Create a suggested reading list and tools as an aide #9 Add list of "Characteristics of Anorexia" to list of "Characteristics of Sex and Love Addiction" Violation of Traditions (VTR) #1 Creating "Outside Literature Review Committee" #2 Create a list of works found helpful by members #5 Create a label for groups to identify non-Conference-Approved literature #7 List of recommended reading have limited number of items Consolidating / Prioritizing Using n/3, the participants were asked to vote for two categories that best address the solution. The vote was as follows: ENC (35); AC (23); OL (19); VTR(8). 15-minute break After the break, members of the Board Nominating Committee (BNC) listed the responsibilities and time commitments of the Board of Trustees (BOT) and how to nominate an individual to the position. By-Law (p. B-11 in the CSM), Article VI, Section 4, was read. An explanation of the voting process and the importance of voting was explained. In addition, the committee reminded the Conference for whom they would be voting: the three persons (Christian N., Judith W.W., Wayne A.) to be confirmed by the Conference and three out of the four nominees (Cristina C.; Bob F.; Marcella M.; Deb W.) for the 3-year terms was given. It was also offered that additional nominees can be nominated from the floor in the evening General Assembly, but after that session, no other nominations would be entertained for this year's election. The biographies of each nominee were referred to. After the BNC presentation, service recognitions were held for the three BOT members whose terms had ended: Marcella M., Dave K., and Gaelen S.R. In addition, the BOT Human Resources Committees recognized the service of the General Manager of FWS. After the service recognitions, the Conference continued with Phase II. The quorum (32) was met. The micro briefed the Conference on the process and that the two categories voted by a majority as most describing the solution to the problem in the issue for discussion, Encouraging Literature on Anorexia and Creating an Anorexia Committee. There were several proposed motions from the floor. #1 Proposed motion: Distribute this statement or a variation of this statement, "The Conference understands that some patterns of our addiction have a lack of experience reflected within our literature. In an effort to fill this gap, we encourage members to submit their personal experience to the Journal and the CCC for sharing with the entire Fellowship. While each group is autonomous, the Conference does not encourage the use of non-Conference-Approved literature. If any group chooses to use non-Conference-Approved literature, it ought to be clearly defined as such. We do encourage the practice of our 12 Steps and 12 Traditions for all members and groups in recovery from our addiction." #2 Proposed motion: Create an Anorexia Committee #3 Proposed motion: Request submissions of anorexia for next reprinting of Basic Text. #4 Proposed motion: The Conference encourage all members to write stories and create more literature concerning issues with anorexia. Using n/3, the Conference voted for two proposed motions. The vote results are as follows: #1 Proposed Motion (29); #2 Proposed Motion (24); #3 Proposed Motion (20); #4 Proposed Motion (10). This vote reflected the Conference's priority. Several friendly amendments were made to #1 Proposed Motion that included: including an address of where to send submissions; a vehicle with which to distribute the statement; and an addition to distinguish between outside literature and draft literature from the Conference Literature Committee (CLC). The amendments were accepted and motion read as follows: ? Motion: To distribute the following statement: "The Conference understands that some patterns of our addiction have a lack of experience reflected within our literature. In an effort to fill this gap, we encourage members to submit their personal experience to the Journal and the CLC for sharing with the entire Fellowship. While each group is autonomous, the Conference does not encourage the use of non-Conference-Approved literature (Outside literature does not include SLAA literature in draft form). If any group chooses to use non-Conference-Approved literature, it ought to be clearly defined as such. We do encourage the practice of our 12 Steps and 12 Traditions for all members and groups in recovery from our addiction. Vehicles for distribution will include the bulk mailing, FWS Newsletter, the Journal, etc." Note: this statement will include an address to which these submissions can be mailed. This motion was seconded. Statements for the motion and against (3 pros and 3 cons) were heard. 1st Vote - 38/4/6 There was no minority opinion expressed. The motion passed. A second motion from the floor was entertained. The proposed motion read: Create an Anorexia Committee. Several friendly amendments were accepted. ? The motion read: "The Conference approves (confirms) the concept of a Conference Anorexia Committee to be formed at such time as two or more persons form this committee." This motion was seconded. Statements for and against the motion were heard. 1st Vote: 34/8/4 Minority opinion was heard. 2nd Vote: 30/12/5 The minority did not change, the motion passed. After announcements, a review of the schedule, and the Serenity Prayer, the General Assembly closed for lunch and breakout Conference committee meetings, which would be followed by a getting current meeting or spiritual loafing time. General Assembly Reconvenes - Wednesday, July 31, 2002 6:30-8:15 p.m. This session was opened by a moment of silence, the Serenity Prayer and readings of the 12 Steps and 12 Traditions. The micro for this session was Paula B. (and later Gaelen S.R. and Marcella M.), the macro, Wayne A., the back-up, Jack S., and the secretary, Deb W. Other volunteers were Cristina C. (timekeeper), Irv B. (spiritual reminder), Paul B., Dianna L., Rhea O., and Marilyn F. (recorders), Jerry V., Chaim F., Elbert D., and Judy J. (tapers), and Sarah A. and Danette S. (vote counters). The first part of this session was reserved for entertaining BOT nominations from the floor. Rob K. described the nomination process and BOT requirements. Two persons were nominated from the floor, but both persons declined. Phase II continued. 02o04/98-20 Motion: Change By-Laws, Article 5, Section 4 and Section 6 to read as [listed below]. "The Fellowship-Wide Services Conference will act as advisor to the Board of Trustees and its related service corporation. A two-thirds vote of a Conference quorum shall be considered binding upon the Board of Trustees. A quorum shall consist of two-thirds of all the conference members registered and seated. The number of conference members seated shall be the number of voting members signed in at any time during the course of the ABM. If an alternate replaces a seated conference member, the number of voting members does not change. However, no vote by the Conference may impair the right of the Augustine Fellowship, S.L.A.A., Fellowship-Wide Services, Inc., Board of Trustees to conduct business, meet legal obligations, and exercise its fiduciary obligations to the corporation. The Board ordinarily reserves the right to decide which of its actions or decisions may require the approval of the Conference." ('98 By-Laws Committee, in conjunction with the CCC) This motion was tabled by the Conference By-Laws Committee. 02o02/98-17 Issue for Discussion No Recommendation Necessary: What are the ramifications of establishing meetings for young people (13-17) to be allowed to attend and learn more about recovery from this addiction? (Mary D., Karla S., Houston TX Meeting.) Brainstorm the Problem (5 min.) 1) Arkansas unaware of the event 2) Press misinterpretation 3) Parental consent differs in each state 4) Legal ramifications 5) Civil liability lawsuit 6) Grave legal peril for the fellowship 7) Peer level support 8) Connection with pedophiles 9) Reinforce recovery model 10) 14 yrs. too young 11) Creates safe space 12) Need for non-pedophile adult advisors 13) Question about who would be in charge of meetings adults or children 14) Need a word format to keep clean meeting 15) Use Alateen as a role model 16) The only requirement for membership is a desire to stop acting out a pattern of sex and love addiction 17) Internet pornography has tightened the need for children to attend meetings 18) Carry the message and turnover the result 19) Anyone can be sued 20) What stops a thirteen year-old from coming to a meeting now 21) Lets youth know there is hope and understand addiction, they are not alone 22) Age of legal consent varies by state 23) S.L.A.A. seeks no controversy 24) Young People's A.A. as a role model 25) Media equates S.L.A.A. with NAMBLA (North American Man Boy Love Assoc.) 26) What is the experience, strength, hope for those that have meetings already A delegate offered the following statement regarding this issue: "According to the 5th tradition, our primary purpose is to carry the message. Although we don't seek controversy we should not let fear of what others think of us stop us from working with sex and love addicts. What others think of us is none of our business." Consolidating / Prioritizing In order to consolidate the list, several deletions were offered, but none accepted. The list was consolidated into seven categories: Legal Ramifications (LR); Destruction of the Fellowship (DF); Cultural/Moral (CM); Solutions (S); Environment (E); Carrying the Message (CTM); Violation of the Traditions and Preamble (VTP) Legal ramifications (LR) #3 Parental consent differs in each state #4 Legal ramifications #5 Civil liability lawsuit #6 Grave legal peril for the fellowship #19 Anyone can be sued #22 Age of legal consent varies by state Destruction of the Fellowship (DF) #2 Press misinterpretation #4 Legal ramifications #5 Civil liability lawsuit #6 Grave legal peril for the fellowship #8 Connection with pedophiles #23 S.L.A.A. seeks no controversy #25 Media equates S.L.A.A. with NAMBLA (North American Man Boy Love Assoc.) Cultural/Moral (CM) #2 Press misinterpretation #8 Connection with pedophiles #10 14 yrs. too young #25 Media equates S.L.A.A. with NAMBLA (North American Man Boy Love Assoc.) Solutions (S) #3 Parental consent differs in each state #12 Need for non-pedophile adult advisors #14 Need a word format to keep clean meeting #15 Use Alateen as a role model #24 Young People's A.A. Environment (E) #7 Peer level support #9 Reinforce recovery model #11 Creates safe space #16 The only requirement for membership is a desire to stop acting out a pattern of sex and love addiction #18 Carry the message and turnover the result #21 Lets youth know there is hope and understand addiction, they are not alone #23 S.L.A.A. seeks no controversy #26 What is the experience, strength, hope for those that have meetings already Carry the Message (CTM) #7 Peer level support #9 Reinforce recovery model #11 Creates safe space #14 Need a word format to keep clean meeting #15 Use Alateen as a role model #16 The only requirement for membership is a desire to stop acting out a pattern of sex and love addiction #18 Carry the message and turnover the result #21 Lets youth know there is hope and understand addiction, they are not alone #24 Young People's A.A. as a role model Violations of Traditions and Preamble (VTP) #16 The only requirement for membership is a desire to stop acting out a pattern of sex and love addiction #18 Carry the message and turnover the result #23 S.L.A.A. seeks no controversy #26 What is the experience, strength, hope for those that have meetings already Consolidating / Prioritizing Using n/3, participants were asked to vote on the three categories that best describe the issue. The vote results are as follows: LR (27); DF (15); CM (10); S (18); E (4); CTM (22); VTP (9). There was discussion about whether the brainstorming categories are sufficient when addressing this item. A straw poll indicated that it did. It was suggested that this information and item be further discussed in Conference Committees: CCC, HRC, IGC, IFC, Sponsorship, Diversity, S&T, and BOT. After a brief period of announcements, the General Assembly ended with the Serenity Prayer. A speaker panel made presentations on the 12th Tradition. General Assembly - Thursday, August 1, 2002- 8:30-12noon The General Assembly began with a moment of silence, the Serenity Prayer, readings of the 12 Steps and 12 Traditions, and 2-minute check-ins. The micro for this session was Marcella M., the macro was Andrew H., the back-up was Wayne A., and the secretary was Deb W. Other volunteers were: Irv B. (timekeeper), Esta Jo S. and Rob H. (vote counters), John H. (spiritual reminder), Jack S., Rhea O., Dianna L., Sarah A. (recorders), and Cristina C., John H., Chaim F., Judy J., Elbert D. (tapers). There was a quorum (32). 02o05/98-21 Issue for Discussion No Recommendation Required: FWS fund up to nine committee service positions to attend the ABC/M, in an amount equal to the funding for the BOT. This will be administered jointly by FWS and the CCC. ('98 CCC) The CCC (represented by Gaelen S.R.) gave the Conference the background on this issue. The participants were then instructed to offer their thoughts about this issue. The timekeeper was asked to stop this process after 15 minutes. The results of this discussion were as follows: * How do we determine which committee members get funded, especially if a committee has many members? * Would the funded members serve as observers or voting members? If they are voting members, whom would they be representing and what would be their status? * There is a potential of abuse with this issue. If we fund special people, we are open to criticism. In addition, this will cost the fellowship additional money thereby reducing funding of the ABM. There are other ways of dealing with this issue. Some of the ideas of who to resolve this issue might start in a discussion in the Conference Newsletter (CN). In the Delaware Valley Intergroup, the vote for this issue was 7/5. * The cost to the fellowship is an issue even if the fiduciary responsibility falls on the BOT. * There are other ways to resolve this issue. A delegate can be elected to another term; the individual can serve the Conference in other ways, such as the Journal Editor or as a BOT. In addition, the spirit of rotation is important. There is a time to step aside and allow others the opportunity for service. The financial responsibility should fall on the Conference, intergroups, and groups. * The concern about this issue is financial. $7000-8000 is a big cost. In addition, personalities would become a problem. * The speaker is a strong believer of rotation. If this issue becomes practice, there needs to be limits put on the duration that the person is funded. * This funding issue will limit the ability of new people to be a part of the process. * Continuity needs to happen in a growing organization. Putting this idea into practice would allow more committees to thrive. * There should be a process for committee chairs to be elected in the month of March previous to the ABM, in order for that chair to have a few months of training prior to the ABM. For new input, there are new members needed in the CCC. * There needs to be a trial period for one or two of these funded positions. These persons would be voted on by the entire Conference. * From the MRC, putting this idea into practice would attract the old timers for business. Also, those who serve on committees do not have to be present to remain in service. * If this idea were put into practice, guidelines would need to be developed for those members that would receive funding. * A 2-year limit is not enough to have the continuity needed on committees and service at this level. Both the strength, hope and experiences of an old timer and the ideas of a new person are important. * F.W.S. has had some financial challenges. The local intergroup of this speaker was opposed to this idea. * This is a good idea, but it is not the right time. There is not enough support of this idea through our 7th Tradition. * Making the delegate position a three-year term. * The speakers Intergroup found money to send two delegates, if the area is invested in it. * Chicago Intergroup is opposed to this idea. There is difficulty in understanding why sending a delegate is necessary. Education is needed to the rest of the fellowship as to the reasons why service at this level is important. 02o06/99-02 Issue for Discussion Recommendation Required: Given Tradition Three, how do you handle one-sex (single gender) meetings that forbid members of the other sex (gender) from attending? Would you list them on your meeting lists or resources lists? (SLAA of Greater Chicago) Problem Identification (5 min.) 1) People of one gender feel uncomfortable in front of the other 2) Reconciling need for special focus meeting with 3rd Tradition 3) Men attack women in/after meeting 4) Tradition 1 applies 5) Limits attendance in areas with few meetings 6) Turns away addicts still suffering 7) Safety for women 8) Read the text on special meetings 9) No one turned away 10) Promotes exclusivity, separation, and victimization 11) Single gender and coed meetings are helpful to recovery 12) Our program is about leaning to have healthy relationships with everyone 13) Disparity in the number of men and women 14) Single gender meetings become "anti" the other gender 15) Promotes hiding in meetings 16) Newcomer women intimidated at all male meetings 17) Coed meetings are there when members are ready 18) Meeting autonomy 19) Basic text needs to reflect reality 20) We all need each other 21) Single gender meetings decreases 13th Stepping Consolidating / Prioritizing In an effort to consolidate the list, the micro requested that participants delete any item that may not identify the problem. There was no consensus on which items to delete. The list was then consolidated into three major categories: Gender (G); Encourages Disparity (ED); Safety (S). There were eight categories that were not consolidated. Brainstorming items were organized under the following category headings: Gender (G) #1 People of one gender feel uncomfortable in front of the other #7 Safety for women #14 Single gender meetings become "anti" the other gender #16 Newcomer women intimidated at all male meetings #17 Coed meetings are there when members are ready Encourages Disparity (ED) #1 People of one gender feel uncomfortable in front of the other #3 Men attack women in/after meeting #7 Safety for women #10 Promotes exclusivity, separation, and victimization #12 Our program is about leaning to have healthy relationships with everyone #13 Disparity in the number of men and women #14 Single gender meetings become "anti" the other gender #15 Promotes hiding in meetings #16 Newcomer women intimidated at all male meetings #21 Single gender meetings decreases 13th Stepping Safety (S) #1 People of one gender feel uncomfortable in front of the other #7 Safety for women #8 Read the text on special meetings #11 Single gender and coed meetings are helpful to recovery #16 Newcomer women intimidated at all male meetings #2-Reconcile with Tradition #4-Tradition 1 applies #5-Limits meeting attendance in areas where there are few meetings #6-Turns away addicts still suffering #9-No one turned away #18-Meeting autonomy #19-Reword the Basic Text to reflect reality #20-We all need each other Using n/3, the participants were asked to vote on the four options they believe most identifies the problem. The results of the vote are as follows: G (23); ED (15); S (30); #2-Reconcile with Tradition 3 (21); #4 - Tradition 1 applies (9); #5 - Limits meeting attendance in areas where there are few meetings (10); #6 Turns away addicts still suffering (19); #9 No one turned away (4); #18- Meeting autonomy (15); #19- Reword the Basic Text to reflect reality (3); #20- We all need each other (2). Brainstorming Safety (5 min.) 1) Have a Meeting Closer 2) Have single gender meetings 3) Guidelines developed for chairs to maintain safety in meetings 4) Male Greeters for men and women 5) I'm going to be vulnerable 6) Literature about boundaries and 13th Stepping 7) Turn no one away and encourage smaller groups 8) Long term members to keep meetings safe and model appropriate behavior 9) Groups are autonomous 10) Model individual safety through autonomy 11) List special meetings in local meeting schedules 12) Place 13th Stepping statement in format, an example is available from the Delaware Valley Intergroup 13) Single gender and coed meetings available 14) Safety is not guaranteed 15) Conference Newsletter (CN) and the Journal to discuss topic 16) Respect one another's meetings 17) I feel unsafe in single gender meetings 18) Guidelines for staying within the 3rd Tradition Consolidating / Prioritizing (7 min.) In an effort to consolidate the list, the micro requested that participants delete any item that may not identify the problem. There was no consensus on which items to delete. The list was then consolidated into five major categories: Meeting Guidelines (MG); Literature (L); Model Recovery (MR); Meeting Meeting's Needs (MMN); Traditions (T). There were three categories that were not consolidated. Brainstorming items were organized under the following category headings: Meeting guidelines (MG) #1 Have a Meeting Closer #3 Guidelines developed for chairs to maintain safety in meetings #12 Place 13th Stepping statement in format, an example is available from the Delaware Valley Intergroup #18 Guidelines for staying within the 3rd Tradition Literature (L) #6 Literature about boundaries and 13th Stepping #11 List special meetings in local meeting schedules #15 Conference Newsletter (CN) and the Journal to discuss topic Model Recovery (MR) #1 Have a Meeting Closer #4 Male Greeters for men and women #8 Long-term members to keep meetings safe and model appropriate behavior #10 Model individual safety through autonomy #16 Respect one another's meetings Meeting Meeting's Needs (MMN) #2 Have single gender meetings #3 Guidelines developed for chairs to maintain safety in meetings #4 Male Greeters for men and women #8 Long-term members to keep meetings safe and model appropriate behavior #9 Groups are autonomous #11 List special meetings in local meeting schedules #13 Single gender and coed meetings available #15 Conference Newsletter (CN) and the Journal to discuss topic #16 Respect one another's meetings Traditions (T) #7 Turn no one away and encourage smaller groups #9 Groups are autonomous #18 Guidelines for staying within the 3rd Tradition #5-I'm going to be vulnerable #14-Safety is not guaranteed #17-I feel unsafe in single gender meetings Consolidating / Prioritizing Using n/3, participants were asked to vote for up to three items that best address the solution to this issue. The voting results are as follows: MG (28), L (12), MR (23), MMN (27), T (16), #5- I'm going to be vulnerable (3), #14 - Safety is not guaranteed (6), #17- I feel unsafe in single gender meetings (3). The Conference offered discussion on the solution "Meeting Guidelines." Discussion -Meeting Guidelines (5 min.) * There is no feedback from those that have single gender meetings * Some members are unwilling to be vulnerable and attend mixed meetings, hiding in their recovery in a single gender meeting. He wishes sponsors would encourage attendance at all meetings * There is a need for both types of meetings. A single gender meeting may prevent a predatory experience. * Delaware Valley Intergroup (DVI) lists special meeting. DVI has AWOLs (stands for A Way of Life Step studies) where anybody can go to any meeting. * Some members have to be ready to attend mixed gender meetings. We need to honor where a member is in his/her recovery. * Tradition 3 does not state attendance requirements. Pages 131-133 in the Basic Text does not forbid them. Men and women meetings have never been a source of controversy, as long as there are mixed meeting that meet that area's needs. * There was a personal need to see mature men in order to grow up and to be in a healthy relationship with females. After that was achieved, the speaker went to mixed meetings. There was a motion to take a break at this point. It was voted to not take a break (18/15). #1 Proposed motion- Develop a pamphlet, which encompasses opinions and guidelines for safety identification. The CLC reminded the Conference there is no motion needed to write literature. #2 Proposed motion- Add an agenda item added to the ABM/C schedule that permits lengthy discussion on the topic of same sex meetings. During this time participants spoke for and against the proposed motion. A friendly amendment for opening the discussion to all special meetings was added. The motion was voted on as follows: ? Motion: Add an agenda item to the ABM/C schedule that permits lengthy discussion on the topic of special interest meetings. This motion was seconded. 1st vote: 13/24/7 Minority opinion was heard. 2nd vote: 33/5/6 Hearing a new minority opinion was offered, but there was none. The motion passed. The item will be added to the Conference schedule. There was another proposed motion. #3 Proposed motion - The Conference suggests that all meetings that identify themselves within the local area as SLAA meetings and are registered with FWS be listed on Intergroup meeting lists and other relevant lists. While hearing individuals speak for and against this motion, a friendly amendment was added. The motion voted on read as follows: Motion: The Conference suggests that local Intergroups list on meeting lists all meetings that identify themselves as SLAA meetings and are registered with FWS. This motion was seconded. 1st vote: 25/15/6 Minority opinion was heard. 2nd vote: 12/28/6 A new minority opinion was heard. 3rd vote: 18/19/8 There was not group conscience on this motion. The motion did not pass. 15-minute break 02o07/99-03 Brainstorming Item Member Retention questions: Does your Intergroup have trouble retaining members? Why do you and other long time members stay? Why do other long time members leave? (David C., Los Angeles, CA) Brainstorming (5 min.) 1) Leave due to personality conflicts 2) Starting or ending a relationship 3) Too much ego 4) Pain is gone 5) Difficulty of long- term addiction 6) Move to Minnesota 7) People "graduate" 8) Not enough focus on working the Steps and staying in the solution 9) Meetings become a place for catharsis, not recovery 10) Have not discovered the joys of the BOT, Conference Committees, and the ABM 11) Move on in other programs 12) Stay out of fear of withdrawal 13) Major loss of esteem after a major slip 14) Stay to maintain their program 15) Too many getting current meetings 16) No emphasis on Steps and sponsoring 17) Lots of experience, little strength and hope 18) Only make a 9-month commitment 19) Sponsors do not encourage service work 20) Stay to give back what was given 21) Recovery no longer a priority 22) Stay because engaged with a higher level of service 23) Get cured with a relationship 24) Find meetings entertaining and cheaper than movies 25) Become over committed, burned out 26) Leave because mentors are gone 27) Fail to emphasize addiction as a life and death issue 28) Stay because they have an advanced level of recovery 29) Process of addiction and recovery after withdrawal is murky 30) Leave because there is no literature in how to sponsor after withdrawal 31) Stay because "_______" would be a wreck 32) No long-term members to lead the way 33) Service work supports sobriety 34) Stay because coming home is good 35) Stay because members are grateful for a new life 36) Personalities before principles 37) Meetings become social events and insurance taken for the weekend 38) Disease of relationships 39) Leave because getting current meetings become dumping grounds 40) Stay because it was modeled for them 02o08/99-06 Motion: To add the following key words (noted in bold italics) to the list of major resources in the Preamble and order the list of resources as follows: 1) Sobriety. Our willingness to stop acting out in our own personal bottom-line addictive behavior on a daily basis. 2) Sponsorship/Meetings. Our capacity to reach out for the supportive fellowship within S.L.A.A. 3) Steps. Our practice of the Twelve Step program of recovery to achieve sexual and emotional sobriety. 4) Service. Our giving back to the SLAA community what we continue to freely receive. 5) Spirituality. Our developing a relationship with a Power greater than ourselves which can guide and sustain us in recovery. (Rich S., Denver, CO; Marcella M., Los Angeles CA) Motion and committee feedback was read. Committee reports were given. Discussion about the process of amending the motion was held. It was offered that the motion could not be amended by the originators at this time because both originators of the motion were not present, therefore, the Conference needed to decide about whether or not the motion can be amended. There was a motion to amend the motion. Motion: To change the 2nd bullet (Sponsorship/Meetings) be changed to Connection. This motion was seconded. (This motion was withdrawn in the next GA-see below.) The General Assembly ended. After a review of the schedule, announcements, and the Serenity Prayer, the General Assembly adjourned for lunch, breakout committee meetings, and dinner. General Assembly Reconvenes - Thursday, August 1, 2002 6:30-8:15pm This session began with a moment of silence, the Serenity Prayer, and readings of the 12 Steps and 12 Traditions. There were 2-minute check-ins. The micro for this session was Gaelen S.R., the macro was Andrew H., the back up was Robin S., and the secretary was Deb W. Rob K. of the Board Nominating Committee explained the ballot and voting procedures. He also introduced the time set aside for asking the BOT nominees any questions. All nominees to be confirmed (Wayne A., Christian N., and Judith W.W.) were asked questions by the Conference. All nominees to be elected for a 3-year term (Marcella M., Deborah W., Cristina C., and Bob F. [via phone]) were asked questions. This question and answer period extended into the scheduled end of the General Assembly. Prior to the assembly ending, the originator of the motion to amend 02o08/99-06 (made at the end of the previous GA) withdrew the motion to amend. After announcements and the Serenity Prayer, the General Assembly was adjourned for the Wacky Meeting and the SLAA Auction. General Assembly - Friday, August 2, 2002 8:45-10am This session began with a moment of silence, the Serenity Prayer, and readings of the 12 Steps and 12 Traditions. The procedures for voting for BOT members were explained. The ballots were then passed out and collected. At this time, 2-minute check-ins were done. The drawing for the raffle prizes was completed. Andrew H., the micro, and Robin S., the macro, reviewed the business that must be completed at the committee meeting level, completing the roster, completing the budget, electing a chair, and making arrangements for the first committee meeting. There were also directives about how to further work on the remaining BMIS issues. At the end of this session, BOT election results were given. The voting results are as follows: Board Election Results Confirmed: Christian, Judith, and Wayne Elected: Deborah, Cristina, and Marcella The General Manager of the FWS office formally recognized members of the San Diego Intergroup for their assistance. After a review of the schedule and announcements, the General Assembly was adjourned for breakout Conference committee meetings and lunch. General Assembly Reconvenes - Friday, August 2, 2002 1-2:15pm After the Serenity Prayer and readings of the 12 Steps and 12 Traditions, this session began. The micro for this session is the new co-chair of the CCC, Robin S., the macro, the new BOT chair, Marcella M., and the back up, Andrew H., the other new Co-Chair of the CCC. The secretary of this session was Deb W. Each committee was asked to present a short report to the Conference. The person in parenthesis is the person giving the report. Conference Literature Committee. (Robin S., Co-Chair) The committee will continue forward with its many projects and all are invited to help. They have set a budget request of $2400. Conference Intergroup Communication Committee. (Jack S., Chair) There are eight members. They will be working to get feedback from Intergroups and have formed a service awareness subcommittee. The first meeting is 9/22/02. They have set a budget request of $700. Conference Public Information Committee. (Michael W., Chair) Four members make up this committee. They will be interfacing with other committees on issues, such as, committee roster and CSM inconsistencies. The first meeting is scheduled for 8/25/02 and their budget request is $675. Conference By-Laws Committee. (Wayne A.) There is currently no chair, but there are three members. Conference Internet Committee. (Jeff B., Co-Chair) Jeff B. will serve as the primary contact for the committee. He can be reached at jeff@world.std.com, a private e-mail. Projects include: locate all S.L.A.A. websites, contact the St. Louis business (that has an SLAA acronym), develop safe surfing and computing guidelines and develop a generic meeting site template. The Journal Committee. (Marilyn F., Co-Chair) The first meeting is 8/22/02 and their budget request is $500. Their first meeting is 8/22/02. Goals for the committee include: increase subscriptions (goal of 400) and develop the Journal representative position. The January issue will focus on special interest meetings and Marilyn asked that articles be submitted by Thanksgiving 2002. Healthy Relationships Committee (Camille S., Co-Chair) - Dee A. and Camille are Co-Chairs of this committee. They have a roster of 16 members. The first meeting is set for 9/14/02 and the budget request is $900. Goals include developing skills and tools to maintain healthy relationships with an HP, selves, and others, developing a healthy relationship format, and developing a healthy relationship pamphlet. Conference Sponsorship Committee. (Ellen S., Chair) There are six members on this committee. One focus will be gathering and consolidating information from the sponsorship survey. Members Retention Committee. (Cristina C., Co-Chair) Cristina C., Kim S., and Dianne S. will serve as Co-Chairs on this committee. There are 16 members on the roster. The first meeting is planned on 8/10/02 and the budget request is $415. Goals include: to create an MRC survey, complete the Step chip project, offer recommendations from the 2000 survey, develop an MRC website, form a subcommittee for newcomer retention, and work with the Intergroup Communication Committee in joint projects. Prison Outreach Committee. (Kenn C., Co-Chair) There are seven members of this committee. The budget request is $920 and the first meeting planned on 8/24/02. Goals include: streamlining the contact process, designing a flyer for groups and intergroups, developing process in how to get in touch with the POC and POC pen pals. The OOC has informed the committee that this committee's budget will not include cost of sending literature to interested jail population, instead, this will be an FWS expense and will work with the committee to get literature to prisoners/ prisons. Conference Charter Committee. (Andrew H., Co-Chair) Robin S. will serve as this committee's other Co-Chair. The budget request is $3400 and first meeting will be a Conference committee Chairs call on 8/24/02 and the first CCC meeting on 9/8/02. There is a new subcommittee to address the problems of the business method. The CCC will also promote the Conference Newsletter to dialogue about ongoing issues in the fellowship. Conference Steps and Traditions Committee. (Gaelen S.R., Chair) There are four members on this committee. The budget request is $350. Goals are: increasing the understanding of the Steps and Traditions when addressing concerns of groups and Intergroups, review of the agenda items, and safety of all members of the fellowship. Conference Diversity Committee. (Sarah A., Chair) There are four members. The first meeting is planned for 9/15/02 and the budget request is $330. Goals include: collecting special interest meetings lists and formats, increasing the respect for diversity in our fellowship. Sarah can be reached at: sallison@utexas.edu Conference Anorexia Committee. (Erik, Co-Chair) There are seven members of this committee. Rob H. is the Co-Chair. The first meeting is set for 10/13/02 and the budget request at $1158.98. A lone group in the Orange County Intergroup adopted this committee. Goals include: submissions to the Conference Newsletter (CN), signing up with Conference Express, work with the CLC to compile stories of anorexia. Interfellowship Committee. (Irv B., Chair) People can reach the Chair at irv@ourexchange.net Conference Finance Committee. No report from this committee and appears to be inactive. Conference Service Committee remains inactive. This last General Assembly closed with appreciation for the participants and volunteers, announcements, the Serenity Prayer, and singing "Sharing Our Sobriety," lead by Christian N. and Dave K. Respectfully submitted by Deb W. on behalf of the CCC/Conference Newsletter Mission San Luis Rey, Oceanside, CA S.L.A.A. 2002 ABM/C July 30-August 2, 2002 Page 1 of 28