The Newsletter also includes a calendar of events, which prominently features a categorized list of the dates and times of Area Service events, and other AA related events occurring throughout the Western Washington fellowship, i.e., campouts, luncheons, and picnics. Fliers related to the above events, registration, contribution, and subscription forms are consolidated in a separate section. Districts’ reports are encouraged.

The Newsletter Editor requests content each month from the WWA72 Committee, in particular elected & appointed officers, standing committees, special committees, Intergroups & Central Service Offices, and the DCMs for each of the 44 districts. All the above are encouraged to submit content that features a method of carrying the message in their sphere of duties.

The author’s first name, at minimum, will accompany all submissions. The Editor reserves the right to edit and/or refuse to publish content considered to be inconsistent with the three legacies: Recovery, Unity, and Service, with particular scrutiny given to content perceived to contain foul language and/or personal attacks.

The Newsletter is intended to be shared with all the members of the Western Washington fellowship and relies on the WWA72 Committee to generate content, overall awareness, and ensure distribution to the groups. It is distributed monthly, free of charge, to WWA72 elected and appointed officers, DCMs, and Alternate DCMs, GSRs of the registered WWA72 groups, past Delegates, GSO, Pacific Region Trustee, reciprocating Pacific Region Newsletter Editors, and the 15 Pacific Region Delegates. Homegroups or individuals may subscribe for $12 per year by sending send their name, address, and payment to the Western Washington Area Treasurer. The views and opinions expressed in the articles and reports are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Newsletter Editor, Western Washington Area 72, or Alcoholics Anonymous.

EDITORS NOTE: The views and opinions expressed in the articles and reports are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Western Washington Area 72 or Alcoholics Anonymous.

I am having a great time meeting so many of the Area 72 members and GSRs at the pre-conferences! The engagement, attendance, and energy is amazing. I am excited to hear the feedback from the groups…whether on the topics discussed or any of the agenda items.

Remember the groups are the boss, and each AA group has a voice in AA as a whole so I need to hear from your group!

Don’t worry, all the background, conference agenda, pre-conference packet, and group conscience feedback form can be found on Area 72 website. Just login to your account and then click on Delegates Corner. https://area72aa.org/delegates-corner/

There are several ways to submit your group’s feedback:

• Preferred: Submit via the Google form on the area website.
• Download the Word document, complete it, and email it to me.
• Join the Share with Your Delegate session on April 12th at 9 AM PT on Zoom (link available in the Events tab on the Area 72 website).

Deadline: All feedback must be submitted by April 18th.

After the conference, I look forward to visiting districts and various parts of Area 72 to share the Delegate’s Report Back.

See you all soon!

Courtney

I’m excited to hear what other committees and districts have done. I’ll keep it brief, because as Area Alternate Delegate, there already is a culture of attending GSR or DCM schools and workshops.

I have found a couple things helpful in attracting interest to an event and successful engagement during events. To attract interest in an event, excitement (buy in), personal invitations and food help!

If members are excited to come, I can use that energy to drive participation in the event itself. I’m a strong proponent of audience participation for both active engagement and to make sure that the event is achieving what participants expected it to be (that they are getting out of it, what they hoped).

The final focus when carrying any message through successful events is to have fun! My Service Sponsor recently reminded me that there might be interesting content I want attendees to hear about but if they stop listening before the interesting part, I’ve missed the mark. Keeping the event fun and knowing my audience has helped tremendously in successful events I’ve been a part of over the years. 

As a monthly Alternate Delegate update, I facilitated one GSR school early in March, but after coming back from PRAASA, the rest of the month was busy with Pre-Conferences with Courtney. I am planning two DCM schools for late April and early May.

I am working with districts to schedule district visits (to facilitate abbreviated GSR workshops) or to coordinate full GSR schools. Historically, there are new GSRs joining throughout the rotation so I plan to have GSR schools at least once a quarter throughout this year.

If you or your group or district is interested in hosting a GSR or DCM workshop, inventory or other event, please reach out. My favorite part of Area service is getting out and being among the groups and members.

Lupita YM   |   Alt Delegate

Long story coming, hang in there –

Way back in time, when I was just a measly Alternate DCM, (just kidding, there is no such thing as “just a measly Alternate DCM”). All the positions we hold in the General Service structure are important and a vital link in the chain that provides every A.A. member the information and knowledge required to maintain a strong and informed group conscience.

The more properly informed each member of Alcoholics Anonymous is in the decision making process of A.A., the better their choices will be.

This brings me to my time as an Alt DCM.

Even though I had over 36 years in A.A. at the time, I only had about 8 months’ experience in General Service.

I had been an Alt GSR for about 6 mos. when the GSR had to drop out. I became the GSR during the last 6 mos. or so of the rotation. At the Assembly I was asked if I would make myself available for Alternate DCM (scared the “you know what” out of me). Well, I did and was elected.

Let me explain the election process; the question of who would like to make themselves available for alternate DCM went around the room like this; not available, not available, not available, etc. It came to me, and this is where I knew it was a setup, I said “available”, and the rest of the room said they were not available. I still had to leave the room so they could vote! I don’t know what I would have done if I didn’t get elected.

There you have it. Now, with my wealth of experience, my DCM (who was an extremely hard task master, I won’t mention any names, but her initials are Crystal S., and she is a past Delegate, love you, Crystal!) had me put together a GSR school.

The Area wasn’t doing the GSR training courses they currently do, the Districts were on their own to put together the training. So, what was I to do?

Did I mention I had a service sponsor? Thankfully, I did, and that is where I went.

My service sponsor worked with me, along with the alternate DCMs of the surrounding Districts. They call themselves the South Sound seven now, we called ourselves the Five Families (pretty cool, huh?) a little Godfather connection there.

We ended up putting together an amazing training class thanks to the help of Steve S., who was serving as Alternate Delegate at the time, and would go on to become Delegate in the next rotation.

So why do I believe this to be one of the most successful events or workshops the District has implemented? Certainly not because I had anything to do with it, but because I was willing to realize I knew nothing and needed help. I asked Steve.

It was extraordinary because I learned so much. Not only did I learn more about the General Service structure, the upside down triangle, the 3rd legacy voting procedure, the Spirit of rotation, the 12 Concepts of World Service, and so much more, I learned that I didn’t have to do it all on my own, I didn’t have to know it all at once, and I wasn’t alone.

The greatest thing about being in service is relying on the community around you. We are not professionals. As has been said to me so many times, “we do it for free, we do it for fun, and we do it the best we can.”

I believe that hard task master of a DCM probably knew that and wanted me to know it too.

There is a wealth of knowledge and experience around you. Elected and appointed trusted servants, past Delegates, your surrounding Districts. They all want to see you succeed. Just reach out.

Don’t be afraid to step up. No one wants to see you fall on your face. Reach out your hand, just like we all did in the beginning, and ask for help. You may end up having the most successful event or workshop your District or Committee has implemented.

Thank you! – Don N., Area 72 Secretary

Carrying the Message Successful Events & Workshops your District or Committee has implemented.

Hi Area72.  This is a wonderful topic.  It takes me back to my first years in A.A.  2015-2016.  Here in Central Puget Sound, we are blessed to have multiple districts standing committees working together as one.  So, every monthly committee meeting would have 3-4 district Liaisons and lots of home group representatives, usually about 20-40 people per committee meeting.  Powerful, they elect a chair/co-chair treasurer, secretary for the 2-year rotation.   Then they go about their business.

 What did that look like?  Well, I went to an Accessibility workshop held at the Star Center in Tacoma back in about 2019 and it was amazing.  It was an all-day event; it had stations set up with attendants to show how specific accessibility needs can be met.  There were about 12 stations with a couple accessibility reps from home groups manning them, one for hearing, vision, distance, physical limitations, and so many more.  You could ask detailed questions and get useful information back.  A couple guest speakers topped off the event.

The Central Puget Sound Public Information (P.I.) held a “Traditions Workshop” back 2015 that lasted the entire Day.  Lunch was provided!  The day long event was set up to have tradition panels for each tradition and they would last about 30 minutes each.  Panels of about 4 members sharing on the tradition than time for Q&A.  After the half, your you could move to another panel somewhere else in the church.  All the panels were in different rooms, so they were private small intimate groups.  We would all lunch together and the P.I. committee would host a skit about an A.A. group and how each tradition impacts the group. 

I really miss the all-day workshops.  I hoped on Crystal’s coattails back in 2015 and am so grateful for her and all the rest of us that put on these loving events.

Bud W

February Quarterly

Just spent a day in Sedro Woolly's Fairhaven Hall. What a grand day!

Vinnie, D4's new archivist, asked for assistance at the February Archives Quarterly. We connected by phone later in the month and said we'd firm up a date after PRAASA. He also sent me several pictures of his Repository. 

We set the date for 3/20/2025 and then talked travel-knowing We, the Area Secretary (and past Archives Chair) and me had to do the I5 corridor. Leaving at 9 put us in at 1130-he said there's a meeting here at 11:30...I said we will attend the meeting and then do archives. When we left Tacoma, GPS said we would arrive at 11:39. The travel gods were with us, and we arrived at Fairhaven Hall at 11:17.

Side note: we didn't know where we were going when we left Tacoma. All we knew was that there was a meeting at 11:30. I called Vinnie when we were an hour out-voicemail...so I texted. About 30 minutes later, I repeated the call and text...no answer. Then,💡, it dawned on me...the meeting app. Lo and behold, there was only ONE meeting in Sedro Woolly at 11:30—and 💥 it hit me. The cultural reality—I live in metropolitan A.A. and if a stranger says, "a meeting at 11:30", I have to know "which one?" In more rural A.A., there's only the one. Guess we always need to know where they are coming from. 😉

I always know that when I go into an A.A. space, two parts of me are experiencing the moment...me, now, with decades of sobriety, going to a meeting, more comfortable with meeting new people, enjoying hearing the voices and 'shares', and learning and stretching and sharing what this marvelous lifesaving program is doing. The other is my archivist-historian-collector self —purveyor of A.A.'s collective history. And….Fairhaven Hall was a vibrant demonstration of all that A.A. means to me, means to our shared collective story. With traditional and unique decorations demonstrating the love of a member of the Fellowship—on the walls, the furniture, even in the cement outside.

We (about 15 of us) attended the meeting, centered on page 7 of As Bill Sees It - spirit ... broad, roomy - and allowed for fellowship after. Then we journeyed to District 4's Archives. It's a wonderful room in Fairhaven Hall that they rent for $20 a month. It also serves as overflow storage. They had about 15% of the space for storage. The room had two smaller shelving units, a wood desk-ish feature, a very old file cabinet (predates my '80s Army furniture...I'm guessing maybe even late '50s). We (Vinnie the Archivist, Rex the Alt Archivist, I, and a marvelous old-timer Mark who was an informative interloper in our activities and discussions! spent the next 3 hours reviewing the A.A. story of the Skagit Valley since their first meeting in the early fifties--they have the sign in from their first meeting framed. And what a story! And what treasures! Besides the sign in, we discovered a 1954 Group Secretary Handbook and Directory (which I treasure, yet Area does not have). We found a pen and ink mark up of an Area split and a color printed Area Newsletter from the 1970s. I took the time to show them the map that existed in 1955--their vicinity existed before D10 and 11 were created in 1955, and no one alive today knows what the north most area District was--it would have most probably been District 6. So. Their vicinity attended District 11 for a time, then their location was in District 23 for a while, later in District 47, until both D23 and D47 became District 4.

We also found a lot of items that were not within the district’s scope and were able to release them. We ended up removing about 4 boxes of materials from the archives, leaving the future work strategically placed by what type of archival work needed to be done. All through the process, Vinnie and Rex participated wholeheartedly- I know it sounds ‘odd’ that going thru a dearth of papers, cassettes, displays, and grapevines sounds mundane and “meh”…yet, the sharing of their stories, the vicinity’s  old-timers, Past Delegate Andy A. and the various and sundry groups, the Alano and halls that carry the message in Skagit County hummed with the life saving graces of these magical Sober Lives we had been given doing the work that day. When we finished our work, there was enough space to add a 6-foot table so they could continue the work of documenting the story in the land of tulips. We had identified several wonderful treasures to set aside for their Traveling Display and worked out documenting a supplies list to store the many archives more effectively they had. It was a day of extraordinary joy for the five of us—Don had been doing work on his computer and getting to know our Archives interloper Mark. Both of whom celebrate 50 years —one foot in front of the other, one day at a time—this year. Throughout our work, Mark had gracefully interjected  our sorting work, filling in past facts, moving equipment around, removing our “shittles” and recycle, and been like a winged sage advisor and overseer. Our work of three our flowed as if choreographed by angels of grace. There was laughter and sharing, teaching, and learning filling the air. As we wound up the work, we could look around with a proud feeling of a wonderful accomplishment. And we hugged like old home week when we said goodbye 👋. We five sober people, strangers 5 hours ago, were bonded together forever in something much bigger than ourselves. What a powerful, uplifting experience.

I've recently heard that Archives is like two steps back from the front line of “carrying the message”…well, to that I say—perhaps…yet Archives is the cement of sobriety for any timer in A.A.! I’ll close with this. They say we all die twice. Once when our body breathes its last breath. The other—when we are no longer remembered. May we never forget.

Thank you Vinnie, Rex, Mark, and Don for your 12-step call for this alcoholic!

Maryland N., Archivist

One specific event I will share with you is my experience of the Blending of Time Conference and how our message of recovery was carried. At this event held in Tacoma, WA on the weekend of 2/28/25 I had an eye opening experience. Our Archivist, Maryland, hosted a historian named Gary N. who has dedicated a significant amount of research regarding Bobbie B’s role in our fellowship. According to Gary, Bobbie B. was Bill W's second secretary after Ruth H. Both Ruth and Bobbie worked together after the Jack Alexander article was published in 1941. The article is credited with causing our fellowship to quadruple in a significantly short amount of time. The attraction to our program produced numerous letters to the Foundation which is now referred to as GSO seeking help from alcoholism. Ruth H. resigned in 1942 and for many years after she left, Bill W, Bobbie B., and her assistant Charlotte dedicated 11-12 hours a day answering inquiries. Taking on the sole responsibility of answering each letter for a  long-term period of time caused these 3 individuals to have health issues physically, emotionally, and spiritually. In the case of Bobbie B she had multiple “slips” and eventually took her own life.

            From my perspective, the message carried by Gary is that unmanageability can continue through sobriety. Either we ask for help and/or rotate out of our service position. Exhausting ourselves for any cause is not a badge of honor. It is our job to maintain our spiritual fitness through whatever challenges life presents. In Bobbie B’s case if others were brought in to help answer inquiries her chances of passing sober would have greatly increased rather than having a tragic end. Bobbie could even be someone we talk about more; however, it seems her unfortunate decline has caused her contributions to be a hidden part of our history.

Yours in Service, Jennifer R

It’s still early in our rotation, and the Cooperation with the Professional Community (CPC) Committee hasn’t had a chance to implement any workshops just yet. But at our first quarterly meeting, we had a great discussion about something that’s been on a lot of people’s minds — what exactly is CPC? How is it different from Public Information (PI)? What does being a CPC committee member mean, and how do we get started?

We realized that before we can fully carry the message through CPC, we need to make sure we understand what it’s all about. The idea came up that by better educating ourselves, we could not only strengthen our own commitment but also attract more volunteers. What do you think? Sound like a good idea?

Lessons from Hosting a Workshop

When I took on my first district service position, I hosted a workshop about why general service is important. Honestly, I didn’t know much about the service structure at the time, or even why it mattered — but I didn’t let that stop me. I invited some amazing members who had a wealth of experience and wisdom to share. My job was simple: reserve the church, invite the people, and provide the food. The result? The workshop was a huge success, and a few attendees even said it was the best one they’d been to!

Funny enough, I can’t even remember everything we discussed that day. But I do remember the lesson I learned: the only real requirement for hosting a workshop is a desire to do it. Many people in our fellowship have a valuable service history even though they aren’t currently active. And then some are still trying to stay sober with only two legs of the stool. A workshop could be just what they need to discover a whole new dimension of service — or it could give someone the chance to share a perspective we haven’t heard yet. Sometimes, it’s just a great excuse to come together and connect.

All Aboard the CPC Magic School Bus!

So, what do you say? Let’s fire up the CPC Magic School Bus and take the show on the road! Let’s take chances, make mistakes, and get messy! We don’t have to be experts to host a successful workshop — we just need the willingness to make it happen. Together, we can explore new ways to carry the message, engage more members, and maybe even discover a few surprises along the way. Are you willing to host us?

Ready to get started? Let’s go! 🚍✨

~Sooz

“While I may be powerless to solve the globe’s problems, I am given all the power I need to make a difference to my community, my family, my job, my friends, and most importantly, to stay sober and help other alcoholics.” District 39, Woodinville, WA. Grapevine Daily Quote - January 30, 2025, from November 2013.

At the 70th General Service Conference in 2020, one of the agenda topics was to update with the pamphlet, A.A. for the Black and African American Alcoholic. The goal was to gather new stories and develop a more inclusive title for a new pamphlet. I was a General Service representative for my home group at that time. Dutifully attending Pre-Conferences and Area Business Quarterlies, that agenda item might have been the first to help me recognize that A.A. literature does change. 

Some of you long term alcoholics may recall that 2020 was the start of a pandemic. PRAASA (Pacific Region A.A. Service Assembly) was just wrapping up as restrictions began. As I remember, members of ICYPAA (International Conference of Young People in A.A.) attending PRAASA were already versed in meeting online and formed a Sunday night meeting I began attending. I was inspired by what I experienced as a new level of service. Online meetings and service were difficult for some members, but online access carried for me a new message: my participation matters. I was elected to the District Committee Member position in December 2020 for Panel 71. 

Through the Sunday night meeting, I heard about writing workshops members were leading, offering guidance for people to write for the pamphlet. Despite the pandemic still affecting participation in my District, I suggested that our and neighboring Districts host a writing workshop. Working with a Past Delegate from Area 58 (Oregon), then a member of the A.A. Grapeview with oversight on the pamphlet, and leadership from the Sunday meeting, we hosted at Greater Seattle Intergroup and hybrid, several workshops over the summer of 2021. I had to ask friends to cover for me at the last minute. I’d set up everything I could, but I had to give it over. Therein lies the beauty of A.A.; we don’t have to do this by ourselves.

 Black in A.A., Experience Strength and Hope (P-51) is the result. I’m not interested in whether any of the stories written here were included. The success is in the participation. The success is in taking part in the process of making certain that the message of Alcoholics Anonymous is still here, and relevant, to the still suffering alcoholic. In my short time in A.A., new editions of the Twelve and Twelve no longer equate lust with rape or say that everyone wants to partner with a member of another sex. There is a translation of the Big Book into Plain Language which I know first-hand has opened the eyes of still suffering alcoholics. 

Writing as Grapevine Literature chair, I now recognize that this is Twelfth Step work, to write down and share our contemporary stories.in the March 2025 issue of the Grapevine, there is a story of a man coming into the program in NYC at the height of the HIV pandemic. On the Grapevine app, stories are available to listen to, read by a female and a male voice actor. The voice reading of the HIV+ man’s story is the same voice that read an earlier story from a Kentucky farmer. I cried listening to both. We succeed when we stand together.

Jack J.

Grapevine and Literature Chair

Over the past month, the Language Steering Committee has continued to provide translation and interpretation services to Area 72.

One notable achievement was the Corrections Committee securing approval from the Finance Committee to provide interpretation for an attending Corrections Chair from District 1. Thanks to the efforts of our lead interpreter, Claudia, interpretation services were successfully provided at the Corrections Quarterly. Additionally, we are preparing to offer Spanish interpretation at the Central Districts Pre-Conference on March 23rd. On the translation front, a host of documents have been completed for various committees and elected trusted servants to support their work.

We held our monthly Language Steering Committee meeting this month, during which we elected a new Secretary! A special thanks to Joe T., DCM for District 19, for stepping up. In other news, our interpretation equipment was loaned out for the Burien Little Assembly. We’re grateful to Bob F., past Delegate from Panel 49, for taking custody of the equipment after the event, saving me a long drive from the Olympic Peninsula.

As Language Chair, I’m excited about the upcoming April Quarterly and look forward to sharing more detailed updates in my Quarterly Report. Thank you for the opportunity to be of service!

Sincerely,
Charley P.

This month’s topic is one that led me into service.  My very first experience with Public Information was working with the PI committee in my home group and district doing talks at High Schools, Middle Schools and Universities.  We were taught how to speak at non-Alcoholics Anonymous meetings what we do and what we do not do.

The first paragraph in our Public Information Workbook states, “Public Information in Alcoholics Anonymous means carrying the message of recovery to the still suffering alcoholic by informing the general public about the A.A. program.  We carry the message by getting in touch with and responding to the media, schools, industry, and other organizations which can report on the nature and purpose of A.A. and what it can do for alcoholics.”

  My biggest takeaway from our first PI Quarterly was to help our PI Chairs with carrying the message.   On our agenda for our quarterly in May we will be doing just that.  We will be doing training on how to speak at non A.A. meetings and how to conduct workshops.  Cindy our PI chair from District 9 will be sharing how they have conducted their workshops.  We will also be reviewing the tools from AA.org- watching the videos and how to incorporate them into our presentations.

 On a personal note, I find this service work to be critical, letting the public know who we are and what we do.  When I came into A.A. I didn’t know anything about our program.  What I did know was that I was safe.  I lived in a small community on an island off the coast of Florida and I was so concerned with my anonymity.  I didn’t want anyone to know I was an alcoholic.   I just wanted to focus on my recovery one day at a time.  A.A. was my refuge, what a relief to discover there was a way out.  I didn’t have to sign up, pay up, or pledge allegiance.  I was welcomed, and I was a member of Alcoholics Anonymous simply for having a desire not to drink.

  How things have changed!  My experience drives my desire to share our principles, so people understand and learn about Alcoholics Anonymous.  I know there are people like me who are frightened to admit they have a problem and seek help.  The opportunity to share about A.A. might open the door for someone to seek shelter and take the hand of A.A.

Public Information service is basic 12th step work.  I get to explain why I am here, and that is simply to carry the message.

In love & service,

Julie

I am currently in Florida visiting my family, enjoying their company and supporting my sister and partner through some health concerns. It is not hard to bask in the amazing weather, great food, the beach and lots and lots of laughter. To be able to offer my family my support is such a gift of AA.

Another month and another 400+ registration requests for changes, corrections, and information. To say I am overwhelmed would be a bit of an understatement. I am focused on registration and then getting the Directory up to date as soon as possible. I am looking forward to seeing our members, our DCM’s and Alt DCM’s and hopefully some GSR’s and Alt GSR’s at the Quarterly in just two + weeks.

Last Sunday, March 23, 2025, I held a Registrar Workshop, it had been rescheduled from the previous week as my internet failed. There was a small group, but I was able to introduce the Workshop Power Point and the Fellow Connection database that is at the heart of registration for Area 72 and the GSO (General Service Office of AA in New York)

There will be more workshops to keep everyone informed and to continue to answer questions and give support to all District Registrar’s.

Upcoming Zoom Workshops are June 15, 2025, September 14th,2025 and January 11th, 2026, all from 4:00pm to 5:30pm.

Of course, you can contact me for questions or concerns at #206-280-5645 (Call or Text) and registrar@area72aa.org . Please check out the Area 72 website at Area72AA.org / Events.

I am struggling and grateful at the same time as I think many do in a new service position. Wondering what I have gotten into and if I am up for the task. Continuing to remember what my predecessor told me to keep in mind – that AA Service is for FUN and for FREE. It is with great humility that I look for a new service sponsor and that I pray for my HP to hold my perfectionist’s hand.

So, with computer on my lap and love in my heart to be of service to each person in Area 72, from my home state where this little alcoholic grew-up I wish you all sobriety beyond your wildest dreams.

In Service and with Respect,

Houston L.

I am pretty new to this Tech & Web Committee Chair thing, so no workshops or events yet… if you’ve got ideas, please send them my way!

I can tell you about an event that District 7 put on when I served as DCM during Panel 73. At one district meeting, a GSR asked, “What if we did a service fair?” The idea was to be like a job fair, with booths for each of the different committees and service positions. One thing we see in AA too often is the “committee of one” – someone is elected to chair a committee, and they do the work alone for the entire rotation. We hoped that with this event, we could present service opportunities to our local AA community, and get some more members involved.

Nothing happened for a couple months. That happens a lot too, and in this case it was because of another common thing that happens in service: the committee chaired by none. See, AA members have lots of ideas for things to do. But if you want to strike fear in the heart of an alcoholic, offer them commitment and responsibility. Usually it’s because we’re selfish and self-centered in the extreme, though we usually don’t think so. Sometimes we’re afraid of looking bad. This time, I think it was because of another common thing that runs through people’s heads after they share an idea: “Who am I to lead this thing? There are plenty of people here more qualified than me.”

I learned a lot about forming ad hoc committees as part of this experience, which I’ll touch on later. After a couple months of inaction, I asked the GSR what they thought should happen next. They said we should meet and brainstorm ideas. Great! I texted the people who had said they were interested in helping, and we had our first meeting. Gradually the energy started to build, and after around 6 meetings we had a time and location, invited guests, posters to display, and a flyer to distribute. We also planned the #1 thing most likely to bring AA members to an event: a potluck (okay, 50/50 raffles probably take first place, but that’s something for another day…)

The event went great. Each of our committees had a table, with a poster board and literature. AA members came in throughout the day, asked questions, learned what we were up to, and took home literature. We got some new GSRs and a Bridging the Gap coordinator. We had the experience of taking an initial idea, working together, and making something happen. We had a good time.

The next year, I asked the district, “Who’s willing to lead planning this year’s Delegate report back?” Silence. No eye contact. “Who wants to have a Delegate report back?” Every hand went up. “Great! Who’s willing to lead planning this year’s Delegate report back?” After a few moments, one hand went up. That’s all it took. Once one person was willing to take the lead, several other people were willing to help. That group got together a few times, and put on another good event.

I’m amazed at what can happen in AA once one person is willing. We have our reasons for not being willing at first: too busy; not qualified; afraid of messing up. But one person being willing serves as a useful demonstration to others. It shows them that they’re not alone. Then next time there’s an opportunity, they may be a little more willing to step up. It starts with one person though, whether it’s you, me, my best friend, or that guy I don’t really like. My job is to step up when there’s an opportunity to have a new experience; do the best I can; encourage others to do the same after me; and support you when you step up to do the work.

I look forward to seeing what workshops the districts and committees of Area 72 put on during Panel 75. Please invite me – I make a pretty good bread pudding!

Patrick

From the beginning of this rotation I have witnessed an amazing amount of energy from all of the new District Treatment Chairs. They are all so eager to learn and grow. This was evident at our first Treatment Quarterly on January 11th. We were expecting 8 to 10 attendees, and we ended up with 26 people. Since it was my first Treatment Quarterly, I was the one who was learning the most. Several of the attendees were repeat treatment chairs. They were full of wonderful ideas and suggestions. Most of the attendees stayed after to learn how to get registered online and ask more questions. As a result of that event, I was invited to speak at the Greater Seattle Intergroup H&I Team meeting on the first of February. I spoke on the History of Treatment for Alcoholics in America and how that relationship merged with the beginning of AA. The GSIG H&I team is doing amazing outreach. I would suggest joining that team on the first Saturday of each month for anyone who would like to get involved in panels and outreach to treatment centers and rehabilitation programs.

On Saturday, February 22nd the Treatment Committee conducted the first half of the Treatment Workbook Study Group. We had approximately 15 attendees. Everyone joined in conversation and reading. I considered it a wonderful success.  The second half was Saturday, March 22. We had a lot of success stories regarding the attendees reaching out to treatment centers and conducting panels. 

Bridging the Gap Orientation was conducted by Chuck P. the Area BTG Chair on January 26, from noon to 1:00 pm. He did a fabulous job. So good in fact that now our new Treatment District Chairs are asking for guidance reaching out to treatment centers. As a result, we are having another Bridging the Gap Study Group on processes and procedures. This event will be held on Sunday, March 30th from noon to 1:00 PM. We will be addressing getting volunteer lists from groups within their districts and then entering the information into the BridgebyZip tool to connect the local volunteers with the new bridges from local treatment centers. The next step will be volunteers reaching out to our newest AA members (Bridges) and assisting them with information in getting to AA meetings in their neighborhoods. All working together, district chairs and volunteers from their districts to support these new members in having a successful recovery.

I had the wonderful experience speaking at the District 25 Business Meeting on Saturday, March 15th. I gave them the information listed above and as a result they ended up with a very sweet lady named Sarah C as their new District Treatment Chair. She will join the inspirational Danielle who is the Bridging the Gap Treatment Chair. They will make an amazing team.

Our second Treatment Quarterly will be on Saturday, April 12th from 9:00am until 1:00pm at Greater Seattle Intergroup. Hosted by Mikey C. and the H&I Team. We are so grateful for their continued support. This meeting will be an opportunity to witness the growth from all the participants. Our next Quarterlies will be in July and October shortly after the Area Quarterly.

Thank you so much for the opportunity to serve as your Area Treatment Chair.

Sincerely,

Suzi L

Woo Hoo! First Quarter of Panel 75-Done!

During the last quarter, as your WebServant, I organized a couple of Google Workshops via Zoom for anyone needing assistance in navigating the Google Platform and Workspace. The first workshop was well attended, with over 40 trusted servants participating, while the second one had around 10 attendees. It was informative, lively, and I had the invaluable support of Patrick, our Tech and Web Chair, and Emma S., former DCM from District 22. I am confident there will be more workshops in the future. If anyone is interested in another session, please reach out to me, and we will schedule it accordingly.

I attended the Tech and Web Standing Committee Quarterly, which was well attended by new Web Chairs from almost all the Districts and more. Additionally, I co-chaired the Tech and Web Steering Committee meeting with Anthony G. and chaired the Web Steering Committee. As these Steering Committee meetings were our first, there was a lot of conversation around projects and collaboration. More will be revealed in due course!

This is an exciting time to be serving Area 72!

In love and service

Shu D.

Panel 75 | WebServant

Over at the Young People’s committee, we are preparing for our next quarterly. It will be held on Saturday, 4/26/25 from 12:00 – 3:00 PM at the Lynnwood Alano Club. It will be a hybrid event. Fellowship will begin at 11:30 AM. Come join us for food, fellowship, and service! Even if you don’t have a Young People’s committee chair, I encourage districts to consider sending a representative, so they can bring back the information to your district members. All are welcome!

This month I got the opportunity to go to PRAASA, where I met members from other areas, who are doing some great YP work. I’m excited to have some speakers from Area 8 (San Diego/Imperial) coming to our next quarterly to talk about some of the amazing work they are doing in their area to get young AA members involved in general service. I also was able to participate in a workshop put on by district 25 about how to be a committee chair. I met some people who are doing great service work in Area 72 and I’m excited to collaborate with them to see how we can reach out to more young people.

Last rotation, you may remember that the Area 72 Young People’s committee put on several events to record videos of AA members who got sober young. The committee also collaborated with some districts to put on workshops about safety when working with minors. This rotation, the committee has been brainstorming ways to get young AA members involved in general service, as well as ways to reach young still suffering alcoholics in the community, who have not yet made it to AA. We have talked about hosting events and workshops to get more people involved. Since we are still at the beginning of the rotation, we haven’t had any events yet, besides the quarterly, as an Area. However, some of the districts in Area 72 with active YP committees are already holding successful events and workshops. I’m excited to continue to learn from them, as well as from other Areas about how we can get young people involved in service and how we can continue to carry the message to young people.

More will be revealed!

Heather

 Hi there, from District 7,

We are growing in our district with various committees being filled. We are proud to announce that we now have a young person’s chairperson, Liz, and she is ready to get involved. A lively meeting in February, we passed our budget for 2025, unanimously. 23 people attended our meeting at the Vancouver Intergroup office, which ended shorter than the allotted time. Our District has many local events to help carry the message. Jennifer Jo, our PI committee chair, goes to lots of events passing on the message of AA. District 7 is in schools, hospitals, and institutions as well as jails. We strongly believe in carrying the message down south and will continue to carry the torch.

Tiffanie B

Our district business meetings are monthly, normally on the last Sunday of the month. The location varies each month. Best way to find where we meet is on our glamorous website. Check it out: dist10.org. Anyone may attend our business meetings however only GSRs, (or Alternates), District Trusted Servants, and Standing Committee Chairpersons may vote. The newsletter topic this month is Carrying the Message. Successful Events & Workshops your District has implemented. I’ll start with our District website. I already stated how the monthly meeting is advertised on it, even though this is not really a workshop or event, it sure carries the message of our district information. Ron B. has been our webmaster for two years, going on his last 2-year term. His background knowledge of website skills was just what was needed to take over this position from another dedicated person (Doug R.) who has been carrying the torch for a time greater than expected. With updated technology that websites have now days, Ron has been able to keep up with all district groups, committees, and trusted servants name, contact changes, meeting changes, events, and flyers. There are also links to A.A. World Service, the YouTube Channel, Area 72 website, local Al Anon Website, Grapevine App, Meeting Guide App. It’s all there. But Ron cannot do this alone. Our webmaster is linked with all sorts of amazing people who receive and hand over updated information allowing our area’s website and the districts in it, to be linked together with this information. Last summer our Public Information chairperson (Terese M.) got fully involved with the LGBTQ1A+ community to organize a booth at the Pride Day in July with great success allowing A.A. members to talk to anyone interested, letting people know what A.A. is and is not. Handouts of Pamphlets and Literature were also available. Due to the success of that event, plans for the Pride Day and Kitsap Fair this year are starting to brew (no pun intended) with the help of our CPC chairperson, (Monica K.) Accessibility chairperson, (Jeremiah W.) and district 43s P.I./CPC chairperson (Brian) with help on Kitsap Fair booth. For the last several years our Third Legacy Chair (Linda D.) has been dedicated to conduct Concept and Service Manual studies each month, sharing her experience and allowing us to be led to a better understanding of A.A. World Service and those “hard to grasp” concepts. Linda recently turned third legacy over to Tracee C. who will continue to provide concept and service manual studies and what I have heard from the grapevine, some very interesting workshops of skits dealing with the traditions and concepts, showing us (who need hands on training) what it’s all about. I am looking forward to these “skits”. Our Treatment Committee Chairperson (Sandy B) has been diligently working with treatment facilities in our district to carry in the A.A. message. There are now one in-patient and six out-patient treatment centers in district 10 who would like Alcoholics Anonymous to come into their centers and talk to clients about A.A.. Our district holds 3 meetings a week at the in-patient center, and we support the six out-patient centers by holding A.A. meetings monthly or quarterly at the convenience of the respective treatment centers schedule. Our District Treatment Committee holds monthly meetings where Group representatives and any A.A. member interested in volunteering can come to support this meaningful mission of carrying the message. We are always looking for volunteers to share stories to the clients so if YOU are interested. Give me a call. District 10 just recently added a trusted service position we thought would be a benefit to our district and to the Puget Sound Central Service Office. The position is the Twelve Step Service Center Liaison (TSSC). The main purpose for this position is to act as a contact person between district 10 and the TSSC in Tacoma, and to coordinate and develop a list of members willing to do 12 step calls in district 10. We are hoping to have this position filled at our next district meeting at the end of March. Hopefully we will be carrying the message to anyone in need of a desire to stop drinking when they make that call. I think each and every one of our 28 groups here in district 10 are carrying the message by opening their doors and allowing that still suffering alcoholic the opportunity to come in for a hot cup of (sometimes vary nasty) coffee and be greeted by a friend to find that there is a solution. That to me is a successful “event” of A.A. And for that: I am responsible.

Peace. Mike D. DCM District 10

Hello Area72 Greetings from District12 We came hot off the heels from a great GSR School at Recovery Café in Everett with Districts 3,12,19,24, and 42 it was super great planning this Event Together with Lupita Alt Delegate. We took that experience to our Pre Conference planning. we used Emails then created a Google workspace and had regular Zoom meetings till the Day of North Districts Pre Conference March 16 yay!!!!! Everything went well, we had a Coffee Urn quit and some Sound problems. There were a lot of People in person and Zoom from Districts 2,3,4,11,12,19,24,42,46 and 3 Districts from Tacoma participated online. P I made sure all our district 12 GSR had Pre Conference Materials the Agenda, and all the background info made sure they got pre conference Packets and how to get to the Google Form for feedback to our Delegate. Working on making District 12s business meeting Hybrid on a trial basis. Got all registered for the Business Quarterly rented a room woohoo road trip. We keep working on filling chair positions and inviting people and groups to participate. This truly is very rewarding being of Service to AA and the still suffering Alcoholic. Oh, and we got to do a Bridging the Gap too. If you’re in Everett on the First Thur. of the month 7 to 8:30 come say hi Recovery Café Everett.

Greetings from District 14! It’s been a quick month of March. We are excited to report that we elected a Third Legacy Chair for this panel, now only have to fill our Young People’s Chair and have an interested candidate. With a full slate of committee chairs, we will be able to carry the message more effectively. In this first quarter of Panel 75, District 14 has played a part in several rewarding forums focused on carrying the message. In February, a strong group of Districts centered on Seattle came together to host a GSR Workshop that helped our new GSR’s understand their role more fully and discuss ways they can be more effective in service. In March, the Central Seattle Districts came together again to host a Delegate’s Pre-Conference, where a great group of GSR’s and Area members discussed agenda items for the upcoming General Service Conference. On Saturday, March 22, the District 14 Public Information Chair and another District 14 member joined the Greater Seattle Intergroup CPC/PI Chair to staff an information table at the very first Community Resource Fair at Westwood Village in West Seattle. This Public Information table was a fantastic opportunity to carry the message and help inform the West Seattle Community about Alcoholics Anonymous. I’m looking forward to the upcoming quarter, where we can take the base we built in the first quarter and continue to expand our messaging and service work in District 14 and Area 72. Thank you for this opportunity to be part of the team. Enjoy the day!

Your Friend in Service, David J DCM, District 14

Eight people attended the Southern Preconference from District 21 on April 15th. It was very informative, and we had some fun too.

Our March District 21 meeting was held on Sunday April 16th. We discussed the Preconference, reviewing our district handbook, and the upcoming district inventory. Our district hotline chair, Dori B., reported that so far she has some volunteers for the hotline and is working on getting the VoIP system up and running soon. Our district Corrections chair needs books to take into the correctional facilities in our district. We also discussed making a budget for the district. We had our district inventory on Saturday March 22nd. There were 10 people in attendance, including Derek our Area Chairman who facilitated the inventory. Even though there were only a few of us we got a lot done and came up with some great ideas to increase interest and attendance. The ideas ranged from changing the time of our district meetings, rotating the location, going hybrid, and visiting the group to encourage participation. Terry P. our Alt DCM is finalizing a bid for the April 2026 Quarterly to be presented at the April 2025 Quarterly on April 4th and 5th. Terry and I will both be attending the April Quarterly in Vancouver.

Thank you for letting me serve. Lisa B. DCM 21

Greetings again from the extreme Northwest of Area 72, District 22! This month’s focus is on successful events to carry the message. Personally, I think that any event that is hosted by an AA group and maintains adherence to the Traditions of AA are a success, so I will just write briefly about some of our local events. Of course we have our annual convention on the Peninsula, the Olympic Roundup, a weekend long gathering of recovering alcoholics from all over the West, this year in its 23rd gathering. Multiple speakers, panels, meetings, meals and fellowship make this a can’t miss as folks from outside the Peninsula get to experience the welcoming hands of AA in Port Angeles under the shadow of the Olympic Mountains and looking onto the Strait of Juan de Fuca. Register at olympicroundup.org. Other annual events include our Talent/No-Talent show, always good for laughs and inspiration; the summer picnic, put on in conjunction with our neighbors in District 55 (Sequim) at the Salt Creek regional park and featuring the dunk tank, kids games, and the famous softball game; and the Gratitude Dinner, part pot luck, part a presentation of superb culinary skills on the part of Andy K and his crew who serve the most amazing prime rib cooked all day in his wood fired smoker. The Dinner is also highlighted by a sobriety countdown, with the oldest and youngest counts receiving Big Books signed by attendees. The joy and laughter, the displays of friendship and fellowship, the caring and support displayed at all of these events are contagious and a gift to newer members, encouraging them to keep coming back, as well as a highlight for longer term members, helping us to remember we are not a glum lot and absolutely insist on having fun!

Pete P DCM, District 22 DISTRICT

In February of this year District 25 was visited at its business meeting by Area72 Accessibility Chair, Bud W and was well met indeed by the group and much information gleaned from from his presentation that I turned around and invited Area72 Treatment Committee Chair, Suzie L. to come and share in a similar fashion about the importance of this committee and the work they are, or hope to, accomplish and how District 25 could contribute to this vital service work. By the end of her presentation District 25 was able to vote in a new Treatment Committee Chair for our district, Sarah C. Thank you Sarah for standing for this position and we are all confident that you will serve wonderfully. Presently, District 25 finds itself still growing but notably we have had several visits by representatives from groups outside the United States who very much want to be connected to the A.A. service structure but have no mechanism (as online groups) to so serve and have their voices heard. Many of the members (though not all) of these groups are U.S. citizens and want only to stay connected to the service structure they have been a part of before moving abroad. But there in lies the rub. Apparently, the Area 72 website has in place firewalls to prevent nefarious foreign entities from infiltrating the system; and sadly this means that these members and groups are not able to access the website either. I was pleased to talk with Shu D., Area72 Webmaster when she called to discuss this very subject. So the good news is that though we don’t have an answer as yet, the problem is nonetheless being looked at. District 25 was represented at PRAASA 2025 in Anchorage in early March by AltDCM25 Thom R, along with other District 25 Chairs, Patty S. (Third Legacy Chair) and Arrin R. (Accessiblity Chair). Thom was especially pleased with the fact that if other districts were unsure of the real need for or purpose of an online district up until now many of them are better informed now do to their in person presence at this event. Thank you to everyone who were able to attend and to the 7th Tradition donations made to District 25 by the online AA groups that ensured that our AltDCM was able to attend. It is because of the cost associated with attending PRAASA and more often than not having to fly to the city where it is held and then having to insure at minimum 2 nights accommodation that many small groups are unable to be represented and have their voices heard. This is a genuine shame and a failure on the part of the organization and another vital reason that such events need be hybrid if not completely online. District 25 - (Online Only) DCM Jo G., AltDCM Thom R. ~ Jo G.

Verily, three times is a charm! At our January meeting everyone planted a seed. February brought nurturing to their efforts. In March, some shared the growth emerging from the soil. Ryan, Corrections Chair, has both men and women volunteers taking the message into a local Tribal jail. Josh, Treatment Chair, having completed one panel discussion at a treatment center now has a second one ready to go. Others in the area are showing interest. Phones are ringing at the hotline and our Chair, Big Mike and his crew are answering and responding. Doug, Website Chair is addressing and distinguishing the differences between promotion and public information to not break Tradition and fuel a controversy. Andrew, Accessibility Chair has agreed to act as liaison between us and Districts 7, 8, 21,27, and 37 (SSS of Area 72) on an upcoming Speaker Exchange Program. More information next month. Our GSR outreach group goes into full action this month by reaching out and visiting struggling groups in need of attendance and resources so they can help the suffering alcoholic reaching out to them for help. Y.P.C. Rosalind plans on contacting District high schools and colleges about literature distribution. She also has plans on a Youth Fair for May. I will be sure to give more details next month. Kasi, Third Legacy Chair plans on speaking at any District groups interested on learning what their Groups 7th Tradition District contributions are used for and why they're crucial in funding resources the District needs to aid the Alcoholic in need. All our Chairs and GSR's are active. Ther should be a harvest of some sort continuously throughout the whole year. Finally, we have formed an ADHOC committee to update our District handbook, last updated in 2018.

We keep it simple, carrying the message, One Day at a Time! Jim M. dcm28

Greetings from District 29. For this rotation, we have had great support from our members and have filled all of our Trusted Servant positions. We have a very active Third Legacy program that started late last year. We have a very enthusiastic Third Legacy Chair and the presentations have been well received at the groups so far. In general, we schedule these for birthday or speaker nights and then have a number of Trusted Servants from the district attend and speak about their position, history of service and more importantly, how service has take their spiritual sobriety to a new level. We have done presentations at just under half of the groups in our district and have several more scheduled. In some districts this activity has been done under PI and variously known as a" Road Show”.

Fred J

In response to our newsletter topic, our district made an exciting decision last year to host an annual Gratitude Banquet. This initiative led to the creation of a new position: the Gratitude Banquet Committee Chair. This individual is responsible for rallying volunteers to help organize this special event. To support the banquet, funds were collected from several groups through a second collection basket, following the 7th Tradition. Our Chair worked diligently to secure a fantastic venue that fit within our budget and comfortably accommodated a large audience. The banquet was a success and provided a great blueprint and valuable lessons for future events. The potluck-style dinner was a hit, and our inspiring speakers generously shared their experience, strength, and hope. Additionally, volunteers from our district meeting staffed an information table, providing guests with the opportunity to learn more about general service and ask questions. In the weeks following the Gratitude Banquet, we engaged in discussions about how to manage the excess funds. Should they remain separate from our district funds, or should we add a new line item to our budget? After thoughtful deliberation, we voted to designate the Gratitude Banquet Committee as an adhoc committee. While a few details are still being finalized, it’s clear that the funds collected for the banquet, which were separate from the 7th Tradition, will remain distinct from our district’s funds. Personal Reflection: PRAASA Experience On a personal note, I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to attend PRAASA this year. As I embarked on my trip, I prayed for an open mind and listening ears. Since it was my first time at PRAASA, I wasn’t sure what to expect, but I wanted to be fully prepared to absorb as much information as possible to share with my fellow district members. I can confidently say that my prayers were answered (and then some). I learned far more than I ever anticipated and feel truly blessed to have had this experience and the chance to be of service.

With love and gratitude, Christina M. Alt DCM / District 33 DISTRICT

 District 34 is operating well! The district continues to carry the message by conducting regularly scheduled hybrid meetings every 1 st Tuesday of every month. District Officer’s, Chairperson’s, and GSR’s attend and participate in the meetings. We invite other AA participants to attend our meetings and encourage contributing to service commitments. We carry the message by attending various groups throughout the district to share a positive AA message, upcoming events / activates & benefits of service District 34 has successfully carried the message by conducting, implementing, and participating in events and workshops for this rotation since January 2025 in the following manner: January * Conducted a “Speed Dating Workshop”. The in-person workshop was aimed at providing information about all open district positions, and responsibilities. In attendance were prior AA members that held the open positions in the past and others of interest. The prior CHAIRS delivered brief presentations and participated in Q&A. February * District 34 hosted Area 72 CPC Quarterly Cooperation with Professional Community. *DCM (Angel) – Invited by District 57 to monthly speakers meeting. Shared as member of Area 72. *DCM – Attended Greater Seattle Intergroup PI Quarterly. Also, volunteered to host August 9 th Quarterly. * DCM attended Hybrid GSR school Seattle Intergroup. March * PRASSA – The Alt DCM (Belinda) attended in Anchorage, Alaska. The Alt DCM participated in various workshops and meetings offering suggestions, carried the message relating to various topics, and shared success stories about District 34. * Eastside Districts Pre-Conference, District 34 will participate and carry the message to the GSRs in the district to solicit homegroup participation and feedback. * ALT DCM – Invited and will speak at 7am “Fresh Start” meeting at the Alano Club on Sunday 3/23 to carry the message of AA. * Gratitude Dinner - ALT DCM started planning for this annual event to be held in November of 2025. Date (TBD). April * Upcoming – Area 72 Committee Quarterly Business - Vancouver, WA * DCM is organizing a Dist 34 / Eastside GSR school for April. Date (TBD). District 34 will continue to serve and keep Members, Groups, Districts, and Area well informed, conduct / participate in beneficial events and activities, and carry the message.

Yours in Service, Belinda P. District 34 Alt DCM

District 35 has a long legacy of carrying the message via events and workshops. Typically, these consist of 2-hour workshops, featuring a panel of members how individually share their insights and experiences regarding the topic, followed by a Q & A with attendees. We try to do 2-3 workshops a year, across the May – September timeframe. Over the years, we’ve covered a gamut of more specific topics across the 12 Steps, 12 Traditions and Service in A.A. We’ve also covered broader general interest topics, for example, Relationships. On occasion, a workshop turns into more of an “event” when either the selected topic and/or the panel is of particularly interest to our members. In those cases, we might host a District-provided lunch or hold a potluck lunch and fellowship prior to the start of the panel discussion. An example was the “Lunch and Learn” session help in Fall of 2024, where the topic was about participating in service in and beyond the group level, and featured a panel consisting of our Area Delegate, Area Treasurer, and two Past Delegates.

District 35 Business/Current Activities · Financials are solid. · Filled key service positions: Treasurer, Alt Treasurer, District 35 Eastside Intergroup Representative. · GSR prep for the upcoming eastside districts PreConference meeting (March 22). · Fielded an inquiry/request from one of our area middle schools, to have speakers come and share their experience with alcoholism at a young age, during the “alcohol unit” of a teacher’s health class. We are working out the details as of this writing. This will be done in collaboration with District 36. · We have formed committees to tackle two subjects that we flagged in our last District inventory. 1. How to better attract alcoholics from different backgrounds, so our groups/rooms can reflect a better cross-section of our increasingly diversified community. 2. How to better attract and engage younger people suffering in our community.

Grateful for the opportunity to serve, John K.

Hello Area 72. We have a good start to service work in District 36 with three business meetings under wraps and the fourth coming right after the April Quarterly. We have made room in our business meeting agenda to host hot topics in general service. This was covered by Bud W our Area 72 Accessibility chair in February and Lupita Y-M our Area Alternate Delegate in March. Lupita spent some time talking about pre-conference and preparing our GSR for helping the Delegate in her General Conference Work. Lupita brought Area handbooks and pitched the support that Area gives to our GSR. This meeting was well attended, and I heard a lot of interest from members in what Lupita reported. We are working to increase our participation by GSR in District 36 by contacting the groups and making sure that if no GSR is listed we have a group contact who is willing to get our business e-mails. Our Registrar Tami B updates our contact list and makes sure the meetings schedules are current. You can find out more info about our meeting schedule and upcoming events on our website at snovalleyaa.org. For this month's newsletter topic, I would say the most successful workshops we have had are joint events with neighboring districts. We get good participation, and planning is easier with multiple districts involved. Everyone can take a role and spreading the work out reduces the burden. Isn't that true of service in general? Everybody doesn't have to participate in general service, but the more people who contribute a small amount of time can make it easier for everyone. Last year we put on a Safety in AA workshop with the Eastside Districts. The topic was timely and eye opening. We heard from panelists who experienced traumatic incidents caused by members in our fellowship. I was shocked and disappointed in what can take place in an AA group where everyone should feel safe. The problem does not go away when we refuse to acknowledge it, and I personally never acknowledged it because I was not on the receiving end of negative behavior. I urge every group to review the AA Safety card ( https://www.aa.org/sites/default/files/literature/f-211_en_0422.pdf ) and talk about what happens if someone approaches the home group and says they feel unsafe at their meeting.

Grateful to be of service, Mike L.

Spring is in the air, and District 38 is gearing up for our first Founders Day. We are excited to come together as a District and create this event to celebrate AA. The details are still getting fine tuned and we will hopefully have tickets for sale soon.  For the month of April we have a very relaxed GSR school. The GSRs of District 38 asked if we could have a condensed version of the GSR school. I discussed the options with the Alt Delegate and she was more than happy to come to our district and extend her services for some General Service education.  District 38 is still finding our footing but I feel we are off to a great start. Building a community and a fellowship is an important factor to staying sober. The foundation I built while doing the steps has led me to this moment of being in service and I am excited to see what happens next!

Kim H D38

I’m thrilled to be serving as District 39 DCM. Our district engagement has been on the rise, and this past month, we’ve filled all our positions. I’m so grateful for the positive energy and willingness of the entire district team to ‘lean in’ and support each other. My goal is to help foster enthusiasm for service and encourage people to share their experience, strength, and hope, rather than just filling positions. When everyone’s passion comes together, it brings more people on board. On March 4th, we held our third district meeting of the year, which was also our first in-person meeting since 2021. We’re lucky enough to have the flexibility to hold hybrid meetings in a great facility in Bothell. We had a great turnout for both in-person and online attendees. Thanks to the hybrid feature, it was our biggest meeting yet, and everyone was grateful to meet and connect. Our 3 person events team is strong and supported by a willing group. Our summer picnic is already planned and came together quickly. It’ll be held at the Willis Tucker Amphitheater on July 26th from 11-2 PM with live music provided by Ray’s Garage. We’ve had a great start to the year and also secured a circuit speaker and venue for our annual gratitude dinner, scheduled for November 7th, 2025. More details will be shared in the coming months.

Our district principles for this rotation are as follows: 1. Foster Involvement: Our growing team is made up of people who genuinely want to serve, support Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), and go beyond just checking boxes. Our goal is to provide support and connect people with those who have more experience.  2. Have Fun: Service should be enjoyable and rewarding. Our goal is to help prioritize fun and well-being. It’s more important to attract people than to promote them. 3. Promote Positivity : Create an environment where everyone feels welcome and encouraged to contribute. Let’s leave negativity at the door. We want everyone to feel welcome and bring positivity and support to each other. 4. Get a Buddy: We encourage every chair position to find a buddy, “alternate” (Alt), to assist and help them along their journey, spread the work out, and make it more fun. It’s always more fun doing something with a buddy. 5. Embrace Imperfection: Basically don’t sweat the small stuff. The goal is to help all realize that perfection is not what is needed. District and Area members are committed to supporting us, so just lean in, it is what it is.

With sincere gratitude, dedicated to serving our district and Area 72 Rob M D39 DCM Rob M dcm39@area72aa.org

APRIL Blessed to be in Service for District 42! Three meetings down, and I am so grateful for the energy and support of the amazing people that surround me.Progress not perfection is my mantra during this speed-learning journey, as well as Time takes Time. If it weren’t for someone who sobered up in A.A. asking “have you ever thought to take a look at your drinking?” I wouldn’t be alive and have the opportunity to hang out with y’all’s. HomeGroup.Online brought a presentation in February as our quest for banking solutions continues. At the time of this writing, we have yet to vote as questions/concerns still arise. Attending my first PRAASA as a DCM, I’ll be implementing nuggets into our meeting (one at a time) to make District more fun?!?! While attending a pre-conference is "an experience that should not be missed,” co-hosting one is an adventure of its own; pre, pre-con meetings, hybrid set up, running the mic, food and SO many drinks, tear down, seeing/meeting new and old Friends face-to-face, plus SWAG! Can’t wait for the Report Backs! April will be a busy meeting with Conference Agenda items, elections (till committees are filled) plus there will be two visitors: Jennifer, the Area Archives chair will present and Lisa, DCM24 will share all things about possibly co-hosting their July picnic.

Growing through Service, Teri Harte DCM42

MARCH Greetings! District 42 is growing healthier in this second month of the new rotation. Groups that had discontinued contributions in the last rotation, are sending in 7th tradition splits again. Many thanks!!  We’re  back to having a working balance. With our treasurers’ help we are working diligently to ensure transparency and clarity with our financial status, moving forward. We got the word out that D42 would have a banking presentation by Homegroup.Online. As a District we still need to vote if this will be our new banking system, yet everyone was clearly engaged; as evidenced in the Q&A session. Attendance was spectacular! Group treasures, Alt. GSR’s, A.A. Members- we filled three committee positions this month! There’s a real Zoom recording of the meeting minutes, plus we facilitated a Bridging the Gap connection before our new Treatment Chair was elected. The District’s archives have returned and are (thank you for loading them all into my car on a cold January night!!! You know who y’all are..) warm and dry.  May I entice you to serve District 42? Five positions are still available!  Archives, Cooperation with the Professional Community, Third Legacy Chair

Public Information, Grapevine and Literature- we have a great traveling display! Our meetings are held every second Thursday at 7 PM via Zoom.  March 13th    ID: 930 1782 3319    Passcode: 202171 As experience has shown, sharing the information our Delegate receives for the General Service Conference is no small task; and there will be a lot of information! A DCM’s role is to make sure all the GSR’s they serve hear what needs to be heard, see the background if they choose, and know where to go for a deeper dive into the facts. Only they know what their group wants. I have served this District in many capacities over 12+ years ,and have been in AWE of several District Committee Members before me. It is my responsibility to ensure an interstate of information is available to those I serve- before, during and after the General Service Conference. 

Growing through Service, Teri H. DCM 42

FEBRUARY “A Host of Friends” is all I ever wanted. Living in a home as an only child (though I wasn’t) and being the only kid in the neighborhood my age, left me seeking peer companionship with all the glee of a ghost, on a bike, at a traffic light. Very early on I remember trying to fit in, hoping to be liked, and acting out just to be noticed. Alcohol and drugs became my solution very early; Boones Farm Strawberry Hill left me wanting more, in third grade. Many years later...enter the program of Alcoholics Anonymous. In my first meeting, I felt welcomed and comfortably home. You asked me to keep coming back, and you meant that. You let me pour coffee, clean ashtrays and greet people at the door! At last- I have found my people! ‘You are going to meet these new Friends in your own community... Here you will find cheerfulness and laughter..’ My wish is one of hope. Hope to bring back the energy of Service to District 42 and how much fun is just waiting to be had! Our first district meeting was a technical debacle but we made it through and UP goes the learning curve again. Zoom crashed my computer while doing a pre-meeting test and it was 7:23 until call to order- on a different account. No “recording” of minutes to the cloud, but Friends were at the ready to step up and put pen to paper. New GSR’s welcomed, Committee, Officers and Group reports given, and we closed with the Responsibility Declaration at 8:34pm. If it was a perfect launch, who would think giving of oneself into Service is attractive? ‘...for you will escape disaster together and you will commence shoulder to shoulder your common journey.’ Among them(us/we) you will make lifelong Friends.’

 Teri H. DCM District 42 DISRICT

When I think of "carrying the message" I think of step twelve " Having had a spiritual awakening as the result of these steps, we tried to Carry this message to alcoholics and practice these principles in all our affairs." So, I need to share my experience, strength and hope, which is my personal journey of recovery, the strength that I found and the hope that a life of sobriety offers. I will be of service to others, whether through meetings, sharing my story, greeting newcomers, going hand shaking their hands and welcoming them to meetings, or holding service positions, even giving rides to meetings. “Carrying the message" is rooted in the idea that the best way to maintain society is to give it away, to help others on their oath of recovery. It is also about strengthening the AA community and ensuring continued existence. Some of the ways I try to "Carry the Message" Is: Attending meetings regularly, Sharing my story at meetings, Greeting newcomers, holding service positions within AA, Giving rides to individuals who need transportation to meetings, spreading the message of AA to others through various channels, sponsoring other AA members. The main thing is maintaining your sobriety by helping others.

Jim B. DCM District 43

At District 45 and as DCM I believe fostering communication and disseminating information to the GSRs to be the most important task we have. For many of us service junkies we forget that many members of AA don’t even know what a GSR is, never mind what our service structure really consist of. I find it important to reiterate basics a lot such as the upside-down triangle and have conversations about GSRs reporting to district, DCMs reporting to Area and Delegate being our voice and vote to the General Service Board at the General Service Conference. I always am stressing the importance of the GSR as Bill W. always said the GSR is the most important service position in AA. Hosting events within district and also hosting studies is a great way to carry not only the message of AA but the education of the general service. District 45 recently hosted a GSR school and our Alt. Delegate Lupita brought a great educational seminar to a large in person audience of over 50. Much was learned, and many there were inspired to take on more service work and help volunteer for more work. District 45 recently also hosted a viewing party of a Pre-Conference and our round table format outside the pre conference itself helped foster communication and share ideas. Every year our district also puts on a Gratitude Picnic and Banquet. These are fundraisers but help share the enthusiasm and success of service. Service is RELAPSE PREVENTION and showing that it works is critical.

John C

District 54 is very fortunate to have had a Workshop Committee where events have been held bringing together interesting topics, fellowship, food and fun! A wide range of topics have been covered, including; Sponsorship, Public Information, Gmail / Google Drive to name a few. Our current Workshop Committee has scheduled “Twelve Step” events to be held each quarter through 2026. People are encouraged to bring newcomers, friends, sponsees and their sponsor where we will learn together and have fellowship, food and fun! Within District 54, we have also had several Groups host successful workshops. A Template for success seems to be the inclusion of the entire Group in preparing and hosting the event, utilizing a diverse panel to get a broad range of perspectives on the topic, an MC that brings together the topic with fun & laughter, and of course fellowship with food! These successful events have several common denominators!

With Gratitude, David H. District 54 DCM

Hello Area 72! We have had a pretty quiet month in sequim. We did get together with our neighboring districts and held a GSR school at the end of February. This was a great success with 40 people in attendance. We had a lot of GSRs who are new to area level service, so this was very beneficial in educating them. It was also fun to get to know others from different districts.  On another note we are also trying to get a young person chair for our district. We believe this would help us reach the younger generation in the rooms and help attract more new comers.  Looking forward to some fun events in the upcoming calendar. Talent /No Talent Show, our annual Auction and the Olympic Round up. 

Yours in service, Danielle E District 55 DCM

When Tricia C. served as Area Newsletter Editor, the purpose of the newsletter was clear: to express gratitude to all who serve, from District Committee Members (DCMs) to coffee makers. If a trusted servant’s name appears on the service roster, they receive the newsletter as a token of appreciation for their commitment. If we move away from monthly distribution, how will the Area continue to acknowledge their gratitude to all members?

One suggestion is to keep all business reports from Area officers available on the website each month while keeping the newsletter personal and gratitude driven. Consider an “Officers’ Corner”—similar to the Archives section—where officers share their experiences.

Let’s make the newsletter a true “Meeting in Print,” much like The Grapevine, which continues to be widely read and appreciated. It could feature:

              •            Experience, Strength, and Hope stories

              •            A “Potluck Recipe of the Month” (Oak Harbor feeds us well—why not encourage a quarterly event there?)

              •            A Cartoon Contest with a prize like free registration for the next October Assembly

              •            Event Highlights from district workshops, banquets, and road trip meetings

              •            Conference Reports focusing on the spiritual experiences of attendees, especially from Assemblies

Additionally, a GSR Newsletter would be a meaningful way to thank those who serve at the group level. Service should be attractive, not promoted—and newcomers should see the joy in it!

In an election year, the newsletter could also feature officers sharing their Experience, Strength, and Hope regarding their current or past service positions. DCMs should continue to report every month.

Switching to quarterly issues would cut off newcomers from reading about Area service. My home group wanted to buy two subscriptions to distribute to newcomers, and with members holding 30+ years of sobriety—including one with 49 years—this newsletter is important to us, just as our Grapevine subscription is. Please do not eliminate monthly issues.

Furthermore, if GSRs want to purchase extra copies, they should not be denied. One GSR bought an additional subscription for four years but only received issues for one—how is that fair?

Thank you for considering our group’s suggestions as we strive to support service and 12th Step work.

Member

D54, March 2025