Hi all!
During the last few months, in addition to wrapping up my service work as your Panel 73 Alternate Treasurer, I have been attending host committee meetings for the January 2025 Quarterly, April 2025 Quarterly, and October 2025 Assembly. Our outgoing Alt Chair has been getting me trained and up to speed on my new role, which I am very excited about. I even participated in a venue walk through for the January 2025 Quarterly to help give input into the placement of tables, microphone, interpreter location, and other considerations. I’m learning that there are a lot of factors to think about when planning these business meetings, but it’s also pretty smooth because our Area has a process in place to make sure host committees are prepared and ready to go.
I’d love to visit your districts and talk about hosting quarterlies and assemblies because we will need some bids before our April Quarterly meeting. Any district can host or co-host an Area quarterly or assembly, even if your district doesn’t have a venue large enough. A few years ago, I remember when District 9 hosted a quarterly in District 8. It was awesome!
To host a quarterly on a Friday evening through all day Saturday, look for an ADA accessible facility with reliable internet access, ~4200 square feet large, and capable of seating 120+ ppl at tables, plus ~75 additional chairs. An onsite projector and screen is preferred. For more information about hosting a quarterly and preparing a bid to present for consideration at the April Quarterly, please refer to the Area Handbook and reach out to me at altchair@area72aa.org.
You don’t have to have an idea formulated before we connect. I’d love to help your district brainstorm ideas that would allow your district to host a business meeting, thereby providing a way for the spirit of love and service generated at our quarterlies and assemblies to be experienced by AA members in your district. Let’s make general service attractive together through the service of hosting Area events!
In loving service,
Lisa Swihart
Area 72 Alternate Treasurer
(206) 949-1875
