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.
Hello Area 72!
I have been busy working with the amazing district and alternate district committee members to schedule the pre-conference assemblies in March. It’s so fun to see the fellowship and FUN the neighboring districts are having together.
Around the time this is published I will be starting the pre-conference assemblies around Western Washington and it will be very important for general service representatives to attend!
Purpose of the Pre-Conference:
Pre-Conference Information:
Pre-Conference Materials:
Providing Feedback to Your Delegate (me!):
Please let me know if you have any questions!
Courtney
Greetings Area 72,
The newsletter topic this month is so timely! With the agenda items and background information for the General Service Conference recently released it is a wonderful time to be discussing what it takes to arrive at an informed group conscience. I look forward to reading what others have found as ways to form a group conscience!
In the month of February, I facilitated seven GSR schools. There is one more scheduled for early March and some District Committee Members (DCMs) have reached out, asking me to come to their district or to plan GSR sessions later in April.
These first sessions were intended as a high level crash course for General Service Representatives, Alternate General Service Representatives or members interested in learning about General Service. (Links to the GSR handbook and a useful page on the Area website are listed at the end of my article.)
One of the events that is encouraged for GSRs to attend is a Pre-Conference. (The dates and details of the Pre-Conferences can be found in this newsletter, and on the Area 72 website: https://area72aa.org/events/category/area-business/pre-conference/list/)
At the Pre-Conference meeting you will be provided information and background by our Area 72 Delegate, Courtney S. Then you have the task of sharing the content and informing your home group so you can have a conversation and arrive at a group conscience regarding the topics given.
Groups have many different ways to facilitate this process and each group will find success in their own, different way. Some groups will want to read all the information and discuss all the topics provided by Courtney. Some groups will not be as interested and maybe will only be engaged for a topic or two. Wherever your group falls on that spectrum, the goal remains the same: share information, lead a conversation, share the results of that conversation (thoughts, concerns, questions) with Courtney, so she can be informed as she participates in the forming of a group conscience at the General Service Conference in New York.
I have seen groups have success in a variety of ways, and you can hear specific suggestions from your service sponsor, DCM or you can call me if you’re struggling. As your group representative, you know your group the best. I subscribe to the belief that some conversation and some discussions are better than none. Some feedback about the topics will be more helpful to Courtney than none at all. Inform your group of any groundbreaking topics from the Conference agenda and do your best to facilitate a group discussion on however many topics you can.
Through this (Conference) process, your group gets to participate in conversations and decisions that will affect all of A.A. Through this process, your group can “take the final responsibility for their world services” (as Bill wrote in Concept I).
As referenced earlier, to access the GSR handbook, visit: https://area72aa.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/GSR-Handbook-P75.2.pdf. For a “one stop shop” for GSRs go to https://area72aa.org/gsr. Both of these are compilations and explanations of things a GSR can expect and what events to attend as a GSR.
As always, please reach out if I can help you, your district or your group. Thank you for the ability to serve Area 72.
Lupita M.
Area 72 Alternate Delegate | Panel 75
altdelegate@area72aa.org | 206.372.7335
‘The General Service Conference, Sharing the Topics with Your Group’
Many people in A.A. believe the Alcoholics Anonymous General Service Conference (GSC) is something that happens in New York and has very little to do with what they, as an A.A. member, do on a day-to-day basis.
They couldn’t be further from the truth. We, as A.A. members, are the reason why there is a Conference.
If we, at the group level, are not getting the Conference agenda items and discussing them, we are doing a great disservice to A.A.
Concept I, of the Twelve Concepts for World Service”, states, “The final responsibility and ultimate authority for A.A. world services should always reside in the collective conscience (my emphasis added) of our whole Fellowship.”
That’s us, from the individual member to the Group, to the District, to the Area, and, by way of our Area Delegate, to the GSC.
We A.A. members at the Group level should not only be waiting on our General Service Representative (GSR) to share the Conference topics, but we should also be anticipating it as a service to A.A. and be willing to give of our time and resources to ensure it happens before our Delegate goes to N.Y.
The GSR prepares by attending one of the pre-conferences set up by the Area Delegate, receiving the current agenda items and background information, and participating in the pre-conference discussion. The GSR then emails the information packet to each member of our Group and sets up a time and location for them to get together.
This time is usually separate from our group meeting or business meeting time and dedicated to the selected Conference agenda items.
We may have a potluck or get together and do phone service at the Central Service Office at the same time as we discuss the items on the agenda. Notice I said “discuss”, we don’t just do a vote on each item, we talk about it, often at length, to ensure the group is aware of the pros and cons of each topic to guarantee a thorough knowledge prior to polling the group conscience.
Our GSR will then send our group’s decisions on the agenda items to our Area Delegate so they have a knowledge of how our group and it’s individuals feel regarding these matters. Group individuals are also informed that they may send their own opinions to the Area Delegate via email, by a specified date, if they so desire.
It is also very important that once the Delegate returns from the Conference in N.Y, the GSR attend one of the Delegate report back meetings so they can return to the group and inform them of the final outcome on each of the specific Conference agenda items that way the group is kept informed and also can feel they are an active part of the General Service Conference.
Thank you! – Don N., Area 72 Secretary
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Sed ac dignissim ipsum, at aliquet diam. Quisque urna massa, eleifend at ultricies sit amet, porta in nibh. Curabitur vel lectus tincidunt, tempus arcu vel, faucibus purus. Nunc ipsum dui, imperdiet eu nulla sed, ullamcorper fringilla quam. Cras quis consequat ante. Donec sagittis aliquam nibh in egestas. Nunc vulputate, enim a molestie elementum, diam nulla pretium quam, in hendrerit elit massa in orci. Vestibulum nisl nibh, elementum aliquet dignissim et, lacinia vitae felis. Pellentesque vulputate quam sit amet aliquet condimentum. In tempus tincidunt leo, ut aliquet justo finibus in. Mauris lacinia eu lacus pretium bibendum. Vivamus laoreet tristique mi nec porttitor.
Fusce posuere finibus massa sit amet malesuada. Praesent vitae velit a massa fringilla iaculis in at velit. Donec dapibus a ante at tempor. Cras ac erat eu felis iaculis aliquam vitae sit amet quam. Nullam elementum blandit lorem, nec dignissim velit ultrices non. Nam venenatis magna et velit commodo mollis. Nulla consectetur hendrerit tellus, eu pretium sem sodales ultricies. Sed suscipit neque ac nisi pharetra vehicula. Integer pretium posuere elit, at dapibus lorem mollis vel. Nam vitae tellus at augue tincidunt ullamcorper id sed nisl. Class aptent taciti sociosqu ad litora torquent per conubia nostra, per inceptos himenaeos. Aliquam viverra tellus tincidunt lobortis auctor. Nam ultricies enim eget arcu maximus tempor. Proin at viverra odio.
Accomplishments from the past month:
Problems or issues you are facing or have already dealt with:
Please share some goals you hope to achieve or begin work on in the next month.
What am I grateful for?
Your Service sib, Bud Wasierski accessiblility@area72aa.org 253.392.4748cell
March 2025 Topic: “Forming a group conscience -sharing topics from the General Service Conference:: I like to review the entire agenda that becomes available in March. I also participate in my home group’s discussion session on the topics that our Area focus’ on during the PreConferences.
Repository Report 2/23/25 : We Archivists have spent 300 hours in Repository in the first 7 weeks of 2025 plus had two quarterlies there--totalling 100 hours; I purchased over $400 supplies for Repository and pallets for OSD3; the updated Catalog of Holdings is listed below; we need to update the outdated information on the web page; we prepared for The Blending of Time Conference (NOT FUNDED BY A72)—we will be loading out of the Repository at 8 AM on Friday and setting up at La Quinta from 9 AM to 12 PM—Melissa is doing to room for this event; we will purchase SoundByte for the ‘jukebox’ presentation of PRAASA recordings available on laptops---Nathan and Devin have been working on this project from home (THEIR PROCESS IS MINDBLOWING); we’ve identified the Archives attendees for Step Ashore event in August (NOT FUNDED BY A72); I will attend PRAASA=-the Archivists of the Region are presenting a motion; the safe had a malfunction and locked us out-after much coordination we got in and replace the access point; talked with Jack about Gv?Lit display; We lost printer access for a couple days and then our entire Wifi disappeared—Comcast came and we got it back after 24 hours. We had a research request from Area 15’s Ad Hoc Committee on splitting—Donna researched our paper collection and prepared a summation of the documents and a copy of the pertinent data to leave with and moved to Florida a provided a packet of data to Bob H. (he was a GSR in A72 a few years back) last Friday; Gary N. the author of the book on Bobbie B. will be at Repository on 2/27/25 to review our letters by Bobbie—he is the Historian at The Blending of Time Conference.
Repository Catalog of Holdings: Assembly History, Delegates, Alt Delegate, Chairperson, Alternate Chairperson, Treasurer, Alternate Treasurer*, Accessibility, Archivist*, Archives Chair*, Cooperation with the Professional Community, Corrections (Institutions), Grapevine/Literature, Language Coordinator*, Newsletter, History Books, Public Information, Registrar, Secretary, Sound, Treatment (Hospitals), Web Committee*, Web Servant*, Young People, Audio / Visual, Audio Cassettes Digitized (1200+), Floppy / CDs, GSO Directories, GSO Manuals, Final General Service Conference Reports, International Conventions, 1990 International, Delegate Binders, Grapevines, Districts (44), Newsletters, PRAASA, Forums, PNC, BLA, NAAAW, NAATW, NCC, NAACPC/PIC, Alcoholic Foundation, GSO. Bulletin / Exchange / 459, Prison Letters, WA AA History (Founders | Assembly | Special Collections)
Maryland N, Archivist
Hey Area 72!
I would like to share with you that it has been a joy to be your Archives Chair. In these past few months as I have been getting up to speed, I have learned how important maintaining archives is to preserving the historical facts of our Area. There are several intricacies that go into preserving and storing an artifact and/or document. I have been enlightened to see how much work goes into saving our Area history and making it available to all those who wish to learn about Area 72. In just this past month an author had asked to come to our repository so he could conduct some research. We also had someone fly across the country to take a look at our archives because their area is going through an experience and they want to know how Area 72 got through a similar challenge. I am impressed that people know what it is that we have stored on a national level. Most importantly, I am serving with enthusiastic and light hearted individuals who love Alcoholics Anonymous. I am so happy that I get to serve with these people throughout this rotation.
Jennifer
We kicked off our first Cooperation with the Professional Community (CPC) quarterly meeting of the year on February 1st in Bellevue, and what a fantastic gathering it was! A huge thank you to District 34 for being such wonderful hosts. Our next event will be May 3, hosted by District 24. Stay tuned for details and a flyer.
With many of our attendees being new chairs—some from districts without CPC representation since before COVID—we took things back to the basics. We started by answering the big questions: What is CPC, and what do we do? From there, we focused on the foundational building blocks that will support a strong and successful rotation moving forward.
District chairs shared insightful reports, and we know how challenging that can be just a month into the role. But despite the early-stage learning curve, the enthusiasm in the room was undeniable. The most common phrase of the day? “I’m excited to get started!”
With such a motivated and engaged group, we’re looking forward to a great year ahead. Let’s keep the momentum going as we work together to strengthen our outreach and collaboration!
🎤 FREE ONLINE Event: "Nurses for Recovery: A Presentation of Alcoholics Anonymous and Alcoholism" Wednesday, April 09, 2025, 4p PST. Zoom ID: 810 9099 6343 Password: 411
Nurses for Recovery’s annual A Presentation on Alcoholics Anonymous & Alcoholism is a free online event open to professionals, students, first responders, and anyone interested in learning more about AA and Alcoholism. Tell everyone you know!
Want to talk about speaking with professionals? I’m available CPC@Area72aa.org ~ Sooz
The General Service Conference: Sharing the Topics With Your Group
One of my fall-back traits is contempt prior to investigation (CPtI). Ray C brought this quote, attributed to Voltaire or Shakespeare, to our attention in his story, The Artist’s Concept, from the first edition. He led off his story with the quote, which was later included at the end of the Spiritual Experience, Appendix III, pg 166, in the Plain Language Big Book. Ray designed the red and yellow cover for the book, Alcoholics Anonymous. His story is also collected in the book Experience, Strength and Hope. Due to my CPtI, I tended to “dislike new ideas before [I] knew anything about them.” I could barely listen in my early sobriety to trusted servants as they shared the topics for the General Service Conference.
I’ll take full responsibility for my slow arc in service, becoming GSR and then DCM ten years into sobriety. That slow arc gave me time to trust another alcoholic or two. A recent A.A. Grapevine Daily Quote reminded me how my sponsor would talk me through my CPtI about service topics, much like they would when I was in my early days of sobriety. “Empathy, not sympathy or pity, is the most useful quality a sponsor can cultivate.” (from District 34, Bellevue January 1975, “Need a sponsor? Who? Me?” reposted on AA GV app February 11, 2025).
My sponsor fortunately had more time and patience than I did. By his example, I attended business meetings, even when I wasn’t mentally present. My sponsor is invaluable for discussing the topics themselves, how to talk about them, their background, so that I can be better engaged in the process. As I gathered the courage to ask questions about the process, my sponsor explained, listened, and endeavored to take personalities out of the equation. In general, he helped me ease past my CPtI.
At the recent Grapevine/Literature Quarterly, a member asked for background on changes to literature. I was personally vested in changes to language in the Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions a few years back, and enjoyed being able to dive deep into the machinations A.A. went through to publish and then to not un-publish the book. The GSC pre-conference material our Delegate makes available has a wealth of information. When I find even one topic that catches my interest enough, I can then talk about the process, where the topic came from, what kind of input our Delegate is seeking.
Read over what our Delegate provides. If a topic piques my interest, and I do more research, then it might be an engaging topic for someone else. The upside down triangle might begin to make sense. Leading up to the GV/Lit Quarterly, I focused intently on information about the Grapevine, only to be gobsmacked when a rep asked about the Literature Handbook. “What? There’s a literature handbook as well as a Grapevine Handbook?!” We are all volunteers, and we are teaching each other. Empathetically, we helped each other stay sober one day at a time; now in service, I learn how to be useful one day at a time, with empathy, not sympathy or pity.
Jack J
The General Service Conference: Sharing the Topics With Your Group
One of my fall-back traits is contempt prior to investigation (CPtI). Ray C brought this quote, attributed to Voltaire or Shakespeare, to our March 2025 (Issue 75.02) attention in his story, The Artist’s Concept, from the first edition. He led off his story with the quote, which
was later included at the end of the Spiritual Experience, Appendix III, pg 166, in the Plain Language Big Book. Ray designed the red and yellow cover for the book, Alcoholics Anonymous. His story is also collected in the book Experience, Strength and Hope. Due to my CPtI, I tended to “dislike new ideas before [I] knew anything about them.” I could barely listen in my early sobriety to
trusted servants as they shared the topics for the General Service Conference.
I’ll take full responsibility for my slow arc in service, becoming GSR and then DCM ten years into sobriety. That slow arc gave me time to trust another alcoholic or two. A recent A.A. Grapevine Daily Quote reminded me how my sponsor would talk me through my CPtI about service topics, much like they would when I was in my early days of sobriety. “Empathy, not sympathy or pity, is the most useful quality a sponsor can cultivate.” (from District 34, Bellevue January 1975, “Need a
sponsor? Who? Me?” reposted on AA GV app February 11, 2025).
My sponsor fortunately had more time and patience than I did. By his example, I attended business
meetings, even when I wasn’t mentally present. My sponsor is invaluable for discussing the topics themselves, how to talk about them, their background, so that I can be better engaged in the process. As I gathered the courage to ask questions about the process, my sponsor explained, listened, and endeavored to take personalities out
of the equation. In general, he helped me ease past my CPtI.
At the recent Grapevine/Literature Quarterly, a member asked for background on changes to literature. I was personally vested in changes to language in the Twelve Steps and
Twelve Traditions a few years back, and enjoyed being able to dive deep into the machinations A.A. went through to publish and then to not un-publish the book. The GSC preconference material our Delegate makes available has a wealth of information. When I find even one topic that catches my interest enough, I can then talk about the process, where the topic came from, what kind
of input our Delegate is seeking. Read over what our Delegate provides. If a topic piques my interest, and I do more research, then it might be an engaging topic for someone
else. The upside down triangle might begin to make sense. Leading up to the GV/Lit Quarterly, I focused intently on information about the Grapevine, only to be gobsmacked
when a rep asked about the Literature Handbook. “What? There’s a literature handbook as well as a
Grapevine Handbook?!” We are all volunteers, and we are teaching each other. Empathetically, we helped each other stay sober one day at a time; now in service, I learn how to be useful one day at a time, with empathy, not sympathy or pity.
Jack J
grapevine@area72aa.org
GV/LV Instagram
GV podcast
I am getting better at this with each edition of the newsletter. I am aware that I need to get the word out on the topic with more lead time and I am currently working with the AdHoc committee to improve the content, cost and delivery for the Area Newsletter.
My goal is to get the Spanish Language version published much quicker than I did for my first issue and improve the accuracy of the Events section.
The General Service Conference is one of the highlights of the year for General Service. Participating in the group conscience is an important part of keeping AA vital and healthy.
I am heading to PRAASA this coming week and I am eager to explore how other areas utilize their area newsletters to share information and ideas.
Thank you for all the submissions, Keep them coming,
Erin E
Newsletter Editor
206-354-8228
Newsletter PI Quarterly Report
Greetings!
Area 72 PI had their quarterly meeting on February 8th from 10:00 am – 2:00 pm we had 11 people online and 16 people in person, additionally our interpreter Claudia was present to assist with Spanish interpretation. We also had our Corrections Chair Aimee, our Language Chair Charley, and past Delegate Bob F. in attendance, thank you for your support!
The focus of our first Quarterly was for us to get to know each other, learn about Public Information and how to form a PI Committee. We reviewed the difference between Public Information and Cooperation with the Professional Community and the nuances between the two.
In our discussions of where to start in forming a committee we focused on informing the Fellowship and how that could look, attending business meetings, having workshops, etc. We reviewed the resources available and shared our goals for the rotation. Some of the resources we highlighted outside of the PI resources provided by GSO were the Language of the Heart, the new podcast Our Primary Purpose, and the A.A. Fact File. Bob F. shared that the Fact File is a great resource for anyone who does service work and especially for those doing public information service work. Being we were at The Greater Seattle Intergroup I think about 15 A.A. Fact File booklets were purchased that day!
Everyone shared what they are doing in their individual districts, and we had great dialogue with each other. Brian, Dee Dee, and Kathy are forming their committees and reaching out to libraries to ensure there are Big Books and information racks. Cindy is holding an all-day conference on Safety & Anonymity. We had a good discussion around anonymity regarding social media and were reminded that we can always direct our questions to GSO and will receive a thoughtful, well-formed answer.
The topic of a PI Workbook Study was brought up and we unanimously voted yes to have a monthly study on zoom- the last Sunday of each month at 3:00 pm.
For our next Quarterly we will highlight Speaking at Meetings Outside of A.A. and reviewing the downloadable videos Marchavailable to show to the public.
Thanks to Cindy, Angel, and Kurt for volunteering to host the remaining Quarterlies!
Looking forward to an exciting year in Public Information.
In love and service,
Julie
In the past month I have entered 200+ new trusted servants into the GSO Fellowship Connection Database and approximately the same into the Area 72 Newsletter. I believe I am approximately working on this 3 to 5 hours a day – thank you for retirement.
And, I want to be honest and let you know I am NOT up to date yet…
It has been a hope of mine that I cull the Newsletter list at the same time and hopefully my methods are working. I am doing this to get a handle on who should be receiving the newsletter and how many newsletters should they receive based on how many service positions they are currently serving in. When I think of this (of course in my own head and sometimes actually out loud – lol) it sounds so easy, but in all actuality, it is not!
AAAHHH, the joys of my service position…
Honestly, there is a joy in learning and working my program to find the courage and sometimes strength to ask for help from GSO when I spend an hour trying to figure out where and what the person’s last service position is so the database will allow me to enter the new position by end dating it and entering the new one. A bit of insanity as I try and try and then always send a note to membership services to please find it on their end. Of course, they do, and they are so much kinder than I am being to myself. Also, I have allowed myself to just call the member who I am trying to help and asking them for help with their information and they too are always so kind and happy to help. Because, we are a friendly lot.
I continue to work on my backlog every day and find gratitude in being of service, learning, communicating, staying in the middle of the boat of Area 72 AA and asking my HP to give me the will and the direction for this service and for my sobriety and recovery.
Houston L
Greetings, groups of Area 72!
As you meet to contribute to the informed group conscience of Alcoholics Anonymous, I would like to call your attention to some resources you may find helpful.
First off: you can find the agenda items, background material, and summary information on the Area 72 website “Delegate’s Corner” https://area72aa.org/delegates-corner/
By the time you read this, Delegate Courtney will have already told you all about that via email, newsletter article, pre-conference, District Committee Member, and carrier pigeon.
Here are some additional resources that might help, or at least be interesting, in your conversations about the 2025 Conference agenda items:
I get that not every member wants this level of information… but I think it’s important to know that it is available. There is no “they” making decisions that affect “us” – there is only the “We, of Alcoholics Anonymous…” and the basic question: am I willing to exercise my right of participation, to fulfill the responsibility I have to current and future AA members?
Plus I know there’s at least one GSR or DCM out there who will clap their hands with glee upon learning of the Advisory Actions pamphlet (ask me how I know…)
Okay! I look forward to hearing what shakes out at this year’s Conference! Thank you for contributing to AA’s informed group conscience. Please reach out if you have questions or ideas for how the Tech and Web Committee can be helpful to your group. techwebchair@area72aa.org
Patrick M
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In Alcoholics Anonymous we thrive on unity and collective decision-making, to ensure that our members have a voice in shaping the fellowship’s future. One of the most important ways this happens is through the General Service Conference (GSC) and the process of forming a group conscience at our local level. By discussing and sharing topics from the GSC, our AA groups contribute to the broader service structure while staying connected to the principles that guide our recovery.
A group conscience is the collective decision-making process of an AA group, grounded in the principles of AA’s Twelve Traditions and Twelve Concepts for World Service. It ensures that our voices are heard and that decisions are made with spiritual integrity rather than personal opinion. The process is not a simple majority vote; rather, it seeks to reach a substantial unanimity (typically two-thirds agreement) through multiple informed discussions.
The General Service Conference is the annual gathering of delegates, trustees, and members from around the world who talk about and make recommendations on a multitude of matters affecting the fellowship. Some of the topics are updates to literature, policies, public outreach, and other initiatives that help AA remain effective in carrying the message of recovery.
Every AA group has an opportunity to participate in this process by reviewing these topics, discussing them at our homegroup, and passing their conscience along through their General Service Representative (GSR) to our Delegate at Area 72.
How do we form a group conscience? We obtain the information that is provided to us by our Delegate either on the website or from our GSR. We familiarize ourselves with the information and topics and attend our homegroup business meeting to share our thoughts on the material, thus developing a group conscience. We all have a voice, we have open discussion, we refer to AA literature and service guidelines and maintain an atmosphere of respect and unity. Allow minority opinions to be heard and work toward a clear group conscience.
The groups GSR is then responsible to carry the groups decisions to the District and Area levels and after the conference and our Delegate returns, the GSR is tasked with reporting back to their group regarding the decisions that were made at the conference.
Engaging in group conscience discussions about GSC topics strengthens AA’s structure, ensuring that decisions reflect the fellowship’s collective experience rather than a select few. It also helps educate members about AA’s service structure and deepens our connection to the broader recovery community.
By participating in this process, every AA group fulfills its responsibility to preserve and carry AA’s message for future generations, ensuring that the fellowship continues to serve alcoholics in need.
In love and service,
Shu D. Webservant Panel 75
Shu D.
webservant@area72aa.org
Hello again, Area 72!
We had our first YP quarterly at the end of January and I was so excited to see many YP chairs from several districts. We spent some time orienting to the position and going over the YP handbook and the Area 72 website. We did some brainstorming about ways we can reach young people in the community, as well as how to bring young AA members into general service. I was inspired by the amazing work already happening in many districts. I’m excited to keep collaborating with everyone to make this rotation great. Our next quarterly will be April 26th 12-3 PM at the Lynnwood Alano Club and on zoom. Thank you District 24 for hosting! I can’t wait! Flyer and more details to come soon. I hope to see some of you at PRAASA in Alaska. I will be moderating the YP round table on Friday afternoon and I’d love to see some of you there!
As I think about forming a group conscience, I think about my past experiences at the group, district, and area levels. One of the things I love most about AA is the focus put on the minority opinion. I have been at an Area Assembly where the vast majority of people were agreeing on something, but when a member got up and shared his minority opinion, you could feel the room shift. When the body voted again, the outcome had changed! All because someone had the freedom to share their minority opinion without judgement from the group. It was a powerful experience. In my group and at the district level, I’ve had to learn the importance of listening to understand and learn. As is true with many alcoholics, I usually think I’m right 😉 But in AA, I have learned that I’m not always right. When I listen to others, like REALLY listen, I become open to new ideas and I am able to grow. The more experience I have had in chairing committees, the more I have come to appreciate and love the idea of group conscience. It’s not about what I want, it’s about what the group as a whole wants. It’s about unity. It’s about letting our higher power guide our decisions and keeping our primary purpose at the front of our minds. It’s about serving the still suffering alcoholic.
Please feel free to reach out to me about any YP questions or ideas! I’m excited to have met some new YP chairs within the last month. I’m looking forward to learning from you all! Have a great month!
In love and service,
Heather S.
Area 72 Young People’s Chair
ypchair@area72aa.org
Committee Updates:
Upcoming: This month, I will begin outreach efforts to groups that are not currently registered.
My goal is to:
• Identify and connect with these
groups to provide information and
support.
• Assess the potential for finding a suitable candidate for the DCM position.
Dan H
District 3 DCM
425-343-6252
Southeast Snohomish County: Lake Stevens, Snohomish, Monroe, Sultan, Gold Bar, Indexskyvalleydistrict@area72aa.org dcm3@area72aa.org
We are trudging along at D9 with two district meetings under our belt and things are starting to flow nicely. We have a couple positions that came open that we need to fill one unfortunately due to the
passing of a longtime D9 servant, Tom R, who would always make himself available wherever needed. Our GSRs are showing up and participating and are excited to learn and carry the voice of their home groups.
We hosted a GSR school with neighboring south sound districts D44, D45 and D29 which was well attended and very informative! Thank you, Lupita, for coming down to lead that for us!
The South Sound 7 had our first meeting in January, and we got to know our fellow
DCMs and ALTDCMs in the south sound, we decided to host a watch party at Puget Sound Central Service office on March 16 th of the Northern Districts preconference. A few of us will also load up
the can for the pre-conference with the Southern Districts in person, looking forward to that!
Looking forward to many more adventures in service and learning opportunities!
Shannon H
DCM9
Central Tacoma: Fircrest
Piercecountyaa.org.
dcm9@area72aa.org
Our district business meetings are monthly, normally on the last Sunday of the month. The location varies each month as each group General Service Representative (GSR) gets approval from their group to make their hall available for our two-hour meeting.
We have 19 Groups with GSRs of which 10 participated in the last district meeting.
We have 24 Trusted Servants of which 18 participated in the last district meeting.
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 “The General Service Conference. Sharing the Topics with your Group….”
Communication is a two-way street. I really like how the General Service Representative Handbook shows such a simplified way on page 4 of the newly revised book just how the communication goes from the AA Groups, to District meetings, then to Area Assembly, and then to the General Service Conference and back again.
If we don’t get the word out, then the word is idle and stays on aa.org, or area72aa.org, or whatever our district central office website may be. Our Delegate Courtney has already informed us at the January Quarterly that she was chosen to be on the Grapevine Committee at this year’s Conference. So, I am assuming one item we will be talking about is the 5-year financial plan of the Grapevine and La Vina with goals to reduce shortfalls and increase revenue.
Other Agenda Items will be discussed at the scheduled Pre-Conference meetings coming up in March. I remember from last year that our Delegate doesn’t go over ALL the agenda items because our heads would explode with way too much information. At least mine would. So, I for one am grateful Courtney will filter out what she thinks is “area important” and go over a few agenda items so we can keep it simple. (I heard that somewhere before). If anyone wants to know what all the Agenda Items are and the background of each one, they can be found on our area72aa.org website once available.
District 10 is one of the districts where we will attend any one of the five scheduled Pre-Conference meetings in the South, North, East, and Central Area locations along with a virtual only meeting. We will be discussing this at our next district business meeting on the 23rd of February at the 9th & McKenzie Group Hall. We are hoping to “HERD” as many GSRs, Alts, Trusted Servants, and any members who really love Service Work to come to a Pre-Conference meeting, take notes, ask questions, and bring back to each group so each group member has an idea of what the heck A.A. World Service is doing for the suffering Alcoholic inside and still outside of these rooms.
Once the GSRs get a group conscience from their group on the Agenda Items, these will then be discussed at our district meeting (March 30th). I am hoping our district GSRs will then also participate in sharing feedback with Courtney at the meeting on Saturday, April 12. This way Courtney has a better feel of how each group and districts opinions are on the Agenda Item topics.
I am so grateful to be of service and looking forward to the meetings.
Peace.
Mike D.
DCM District 10
Kitsap Peninsula: Silverdale, Bainbridge Island, Kingston, Poulsbo, Chico, Belfair, Bremerton, Kingston
We had our GSR School Yay it was Great our Area 72 Alt Delegate Lupita was awesome and very inspiring lot s of great information was so great to collaborate with Districts 3,12,19,24,42 and everyone else that was involved. We had great attendance both in person and on Zoom. Super big shout out to District 24 for running Zoom. Recovery Cafe was Happy to have us.
Continued planning for Preconference in Mt Vernon. Initially there were questions about sound that seem to have been resolved from experience gained from GSR School district 24 will run Zoom and sound at this event too. It’s been fun collaborating with Districts 2,3,4,11,12,19,24,42,46 and we look forward to having Pierce Counties districts join us online.
Got a list together of District 12 Committee Chairs contact info attending quarterlies that we don’t have Chairs for. Working on a Zoom system for business meeting. Keep posting info to District 12 committee for groups . Working on getting groups involved in District 12. Keep attending Seattle Intergroups Service Manual Study and meeting regularly thur night to read Panel 74 final Report.
Havent had the time to carry message to District 12 groups so asking Groups to announce in district 12 meeting we would love to have them get involved.
Its great working with other Surrounding Districts in spirit of unity though it does come with certain challenges but trying to follow traditions and concepts. Trying to make sure everyone has a voice and always being sure to ask for any Minority opinions on every decision. Trying to match up with each other’s enthusiasm Level.
Super looking forward to Pre Conference these events are so fun and rewarding coming together at . Hoping to get more groups involved and people to Chair committee spots that are open.
District 12 looks forward to working together in the Spirit of Unity with all our neighboring Districts . We had District 19s PICNIC/Gratitude chair Dave talk to us about collaborating on our Picnic this summer.
North and East Snohomish County, Everett, Marysville
Greetings from District 14!
Well I blinked and it’s already almost March! District 14 held our second business meeting of the panel, which would be more aptly named our “Monthly District Conscience” meeting. As a group, our committee chairs were very enthusiastic about their first quarterly committee meetings and shared excitement for the work ahead. We are grateful that a member stepped up to fill our open Web/Tech Committee Chair position; we continue to seek available members to serve as District 14 Young People’s and Third Legacy Chairs.
Building a group conscience and sharing the topics from the General Service Conference is a task that requires teamwork. Teamwork is a topic which is foremost on my mind today, the day after a super team of DCM’s and Alt-DCM’s from eight districts centered around Seattle came together to host a GSR School at Greater Seattle Intergroup. It was a total team effort that started at the January Business Quarterly, concluding with a rewarding day of discussion, interaction, and fellowship on Saturday, February 22. This event, led by our Alt-Delegate Lupita, was a perfect start to building an Area conscience. Helping GSR’s understand their role and responsibilities is step one in getting group inputs into that conscience.
I’m looking forward to the next step in building this Area conscience, which will come with the Pre-Conferences in March. Our tight-knit Central Seattle Districts are actively planning our Pre-Conference, which will be held on Sunday, March 23 at St John United Lutheran Church in Phinney Ridge. The Seattle Pre-Conference will also have Spanish Language translation, which has granted me the chance to engage more closely with our Spanish Language Districts. I know it can’t be emphasized enough how important it is to get the word out about these Pre-Conferences so that we can support Courtney with a clear Area conscience when she travels to New York in April.
I’ll admit that I was anxious about how we would coordinate important gatherings like GSR Schools and Pre-Conferences when I started this panel. Now I get to be super grateful for the teamwork and fellowship I’ve already experienced with my friends from the other Seattle Districts and support received from across the Area. We don’t have to do this alone – teamwork is essential to building an informed and complete group conscience.
Thank you for this opportunity to be part of the team. Enjoy the day!
Your Friend in Service,
David J
DCM, District 14
West Seattle, White Center, Vashon Island
Accomplishments from the past quarter. Alongside other DCMs, Taylor and I helped plan the GSR School hosted at GSIG on Feb 22. It was great to see all the other DCMs and GSRs!
We participated in planning for the Central Districts Pre-Conference.
Natalie became our district registrar at our February meeting.
Woodland Park Women has continued to take a meeting into a Swedish facility for pregnant people with alcohol and substance abuse issues.
We started using our area Google accounts to organize our district minutes, event flyers, etc.
Goals you hope to achieve or begin work on in the next quarter.
We will plan to attend the Pre-Conference on March 23. Hoping to see as many GSRs as possible there
Josh Blome
DCM 17
Northwest Seattle; Ballard
The past month has been about making service at the District as attractive as possible. We returned to the venue that we were at prior to Covid. It felt great to be back there. We filled our Corrections Chair position and have a hopeful candidate for Webmaster. That leaves our Accessibility Chair vacant.
Our Alt. DCM, Lee R., had worked as our Registrar to get everyone registered at the Area.
I visited a couple of meetings and introduced myself, I plan to continue this trend.
We have worked together with the Eastern Districts to coordinate a venue for the Pre- Conference and had a great turnout at the GSR School with the Central Districts held at the Seattle Intergroup office.
District 18 has a bit of an identity crisis between Central and Eastern Districts and the confusion of being served by Seattle Intergroup rather than Eastside Intergroup, but it's a good lesson that the categorization of Districts has nothing to do with Intergroups necessarily because General Service is not the same as Intergroup Service, it is parallel to it.
We know this, but there is often a learning curve for people new to service. Quite honestly, as someone who holds Seattle Intergroup near and dear to my heart, I have been resistant to being categorized as an Eastern District, but, alas, I have surrendered to logic and left my bleeding heart to the side.
We have a great Area and we are proud to belong wherever we can to serve this awesome fellowship and Alcoholics Anonymous.
I continue to be humbled by this service and am more in love with AA than ever.
Lara Randolph
DCM
District 18
Renton, Kent, Tukwila
The General Service Conference Sharing the Topics with your Group
Attending the pre-conference is the beginning of the process to form a group conscience through sharing the topics from the General Service Conference. Every year our Area 72 Delegate prepares for the General Service Conference and meets with the GSRs at the pre-conference assemblies. Part of your job as GSR is to attend these meetings, take notes, then share the topics with your group. On page 35 of the Area 72 GSR handbook you will find tips to help you when you give reports to your group. These are also helpful for sharing the topics from the pre-conference. It is also important to take a lot of notes to help you answer any questions group members may have about the topics. In addition, it is a good idea to choose just a few topics your group may be interested in to discuss first. If you have time after that you can see if the group wants to discuss more topics. After you come to a group conscience you will share that information with our delegate, Courtney, before the April 13th deadline. On page 14 of the handbook in the description of the Pre-conference assemblies it says, “This way the GSRs can inform the Delegate about their groups’ thoughts on the issues so that the Delegate has a sense of our Area while attending the General Service Conference.” In the pamphlet G.S.R. General Service Representative Your group’s link to A.A. as a whole it says: You transmit ideas and opinions, as well as facts; through you, the group conscience becomes a part of the collective conscience of our whole fellowship as expressed in the General Service Conference.”
Lisa B. D21 DCM
Grays Harbor and Willapa Harbor Areas, Aberdeen, Hoquiam, Montesano, Raymond
The Area Accessibility Chair, Bud W., asked District 25 if he might present info on the work and workings of this committee and how best District 25 might add to the success of those goals. At the time of Bud’s initial request District 25 did not have a chairperson in place, but by the time of the next scheduled (February) business meeting wherein Bud would present we had voted in Arrin R.. That being said, Arrin introduced Bud W. and he provided us with a compelling share on the hopes, means, and goals for this arm of AA’s service structure.
Believing this to be an effective way to drum up enthusiasm for both the area and district service arms and still needing to fill a few other committee positions (including CPC, PI, Treatment, and the Young People’s Chair) it is my goal to send invites to the Area Chairpeople of these committees and see if we can’t get them to provide the needed incentive to our group of GSRs, AltGSRs, and all the membership to stand and serve knowing that their sobriety will be elevated through fulfilling 12th Step and making true the Declaration of Responsibility:
I am responsible… when anyone, anywhere, reaches out for help, I want the hand of A.A. always to be there. And for that: I am responsible.
Jo
DCM
The General Service Conference, Sharing the Topics With Your Group
I was sick in bed with pneumonia when our Area Delegate, Courtney S., reached out via email regarding the necessity of setting up a date for an online pre-conference on the topics being discussed at the next conference. But I was more than a little “self-absorbed” and wasn’t inclined to read or catch up on or follow through on any emails whatsoever. Undaunted, Courtney ended up placing a call to me that I was able to take and just in time for the regularly scheduled District 25 business meeting with the committee chairs, GSRs, AltGSRs, et al.
In that phone conversation with Courtney S. and I were able to choose a date, March 26, 2025 at 5:00pm Pacific Time for all interested parties to hear via Zoom Courtney’s presentation and to voice questions and concerns before taking what they hear back to their individual groups where the membership will discuss and determine the “group conscience” decisions for the GSR to then submit to Courtney via the form she is putting together for that very purpose. The topics are to be submitted to the membership via the GSRs here shortly and will be sent to their email addresses. Hopefully the GSRs will then make them available to any of their members not just at their business/pre-conference topic discussion meeting but as soon as they might so people can really sit with them and think about them, maybe even talk about them with their step or service sponsors so as to begin to formulate an understanding of the various topics.
This is just another thing I love about what A.A. is teaching me (us): To give myself time to think, gather information, listen and then voice my ideas/opinions and to join in the voting process knowing that every vote is important. To hear and really take in the minority opinion, weighing its merits and not standing so very solid in whatever stance I’ve taken so as to be living in a closed mind!
And let me tell you folks, this is NOT my natural way of thinking and behaving and being. Its yet another gift of the program and for that I will be forever grateful.
Jo
DCM
Online meetings
“FORMING A GROUP CONSCIENCE”
Our District has been growing since Covid. People doing service has also increased. District 27’s PI/CPC committee had asked for, and received, an increase in their monthly budget from a group conscience. Big Books have been bought for jails in our district and we are working on other jails receiving copies soon. All of these decisions are done by having a group conscience. We also have someone making themselves available for our Corrections and Treatment Chair next month. This is going to help tremendously in carrying the message of AA to those that may want “a way out”.
We are getting organized!
In service,
Dave K.
DCM District 27
Cowlitz, Pacific and Wahkiakum Counties: Longview-Kelso Area, Long Beach Peninsula
Our February district meeting became highly animated when discussing the 2025 budget. The big contentious point was the allotted funds to the Chairs and approval of what they spend it on. The bright side was them wanting to know the guidelines on how to utilize the money to best fulfill the goals of helping the alcoholic in need of the services we're capable of providing. A need to update our District 28 handbook, last updated in March 2018 comes to light. Staying informed is a game we must always be prepared for.
Andrew, Accessibility Chair, brought to light ideas from his Quarterly he hadn't considered before assuming the position. He agreed when asked to provide a short-written summary next month for the GSRs to share with their Home groups. Game on. Doug, Web Chair, reintroduced, after being confronted by members about web content, what is allowed to be posted on our AA website? Past conscience says, Traditions are the fine line which guides us. Some feel the line should be rigid and uncompromising, while others say it should be pliable and reflect more of the primary AA purpose of carrying the message. Another swipe from District to GSRs who now have to lob it back over the net to Home groups. More will be revealed when Home groups swing back. Gunny, Chehalis group GSR, brought and gave out information handouts from GSR workshop to GSRs who were not in attendance at the February 8,2025 class held, and hosted by District 8, and presented by our Alt-Delegate Lupita. Josh, GSR, Serenity Seekers, reported his group wants ideas from other groups on how they plan on implementing ride shares? Everything, back and forth, gathering and dispersing information.
Wes Wants Winning Weekend Words of Wisdom! "Hear Ye, Hear Ye", Speakers Wanted! Centralia Speakers Meeting looking for speakers to share their story. Can't beat recovery as a topic. Contact me at dcm28@area72aa.org for those interested in sharing (you get service work extra credit) your recovery.
Looking forward to Debbie, Grapevine/Literature Chair's report next month after her Quarterly last Saturday. Big Mike, Hotline Chair, is revving up his engine for a trip to the Seattle Intergroup hotline center for an on hands shift of observing a successful operation. I know he'll have lots of questions and then answers for us here in the S.S.S. region of area72. I might stow away in his car and see for myself what it's all about. The information game seems endless.
Andrew, Accessibility, Josh, Treatment, and Rosalind, Young Person's Chair seem to be forming an unplanned alliance combining their tool bags to build a strong foundation to help alcoholics with needs. Everyone gets a chance to swing the information paddle as well as bearing the impact of being wacked by new information from it. A never-ending Ping Pong Match.
Sorry I didn't get to "Sharing the Topis with your Group", about the General Service Conferance. But that might be more the reason to attend the Delegate Pre-Conferance with Courtney. For us that's March 15,2025 at the Assembly of God Church, 4224 Jackson Hwy. Chehalis, WA. 10:00 am to 2:00 pm.
Jim M.
dcm28@area72aa.org
DCM28
Lewis County: Centralia, Chehalis
Greetings from District 29. Things are going well with robust attendance at the monthly business meeting. The groups and district are actively involved in all areas of service and there is an air of excitement about expanding our message to the alcoholics who still suffer. Meeting attendance is up in most groups. We have an active Third Legacy Program and have been speaking at many group birthday night celebrations. I look forward to the next quarterly in April.
In service,
Fred Johnstone
District 29 DCM
dcm29@area72aa.org
(253) 229-7435
Puyallup, Eatonville, Orting
pugetsoundaa.org
“The Conference”
My service sponsor has been educating me on this process. I hope this article shows I’m paying attention and learning. First, a little history. The General Service Conference (known as the “Conference”) was born to replace our co-founders Bill W. & Bob S., mortal men. It came about in 1951 for A.A. to truly be independent of Bill & Bob and take on a life of its own. It was originally designed to have an informed group conscience from the groups in the US & Canada that make up our fellowship with respect to the operations of our centralized services including the General Service Board (GSB), A.A. World Services, Inc., (AAWS) which includes our General Service Office (GSO), and The Grapevine Inc. All of this runs off of the 36 spiritual principles: 12 Steps, 12 Traditions, and 12 Concepts
Our service structure process is that each group elects a Group Service Representative (GSR), who attends the District meetings. Each district elects a District Committee Member (DCM) to carry the districts’ group conscience to the Area Quarterlies. The GSRs and DCMs elect our Delegate at the Assembly who carries our area’s conscience to the Conference. Then after the Conference, the information comes back in reverse order by our Delegate who reports back to the GSRs who then report back to their groups.
Now you can see how important it is for all the service positions to be filled along this chain of communication from the groups to the Conference and back again. I hope every group has a GSR and attends the Pre-Conference in March, where our Delegate, Courtney, will give us the Pre-Conference agenda items. Of course any member is welcome to attend. The more, the better. Then GSRs should take these items back to your groups to get your group’s conscience on the most important items; then email that to Courtney before she attends the Conference in April. Lets send Courtney off with a well-informed Area Group Conscience. I hope to see you there!
DCM 31
Angie
Burien, Des Moines, SeaTac, Tukwila, Normandy Park
When we think about the A.A. group conscience and its importance, it is good to think about the inverted triangle that represents the “Structure of the Conference” and that the “final authority” does not rest upon the few, in this case the General Service Board. But, instead, this ultimate authority is the responsibility of the groups of A.A. It is the group conscience of the members of A.A. that must thoroughly review and share information, consider the many points of view that a large collective of individuals hold, apply the practiced principles of A.A., and then determine the best way to proceed before action is taken.
Many of us find ourselves in a new rotation of service and new to our service positions. We must rely on our relationships and the fellowship to seek out advice and suggestions on effective ways to share information, review/collaborate, and consider A.A. as a whole before reporting back what our thoughts are on any given topic or request to our Delegate. As Pre-Conferences approach, I am excited to partner with my fellows to determine the best way to be of service to its members and our groups while forming a group conscience.
Nicole J
DCM 32
Auburn, Federal Way
As we gather in our various meetings and share our stories, it’s essential to remember that our collective voice holds incredible power. One of the most impactful ways we can harness that power is by discussing the topics brought up at the Pre-Conference Assembly. These conversations are more than just procedural; they are a crucial link between our local groups and the broader structure of AA, ultimately benefiting the still-suffering alcoholic.
Why Share Pre-Conference Topics?
When we discuss the issues and suggestions that emerge from the Pre-Conference, we open the door for our groups to provide valuable feedback. This feedback is crucial—it’s our chance to contribute to the broader conversation within AA and ensure that our collective experiences and insights make their way to our Area Delegate, who will carry them to the General Service Conference.
By sharing these topics in our meetings, we create an inclusive environment where everyone’s voice can be heard. This process not only strengthens our groups but also fosters a sense of unity and purpose. When we come together to discuss these important matters, we remind ourselves that we are not just individuals on our own paths; we are part of a larger fellowship dedicated to helping one another.
The Upside-Down Triangle of AA Service
One of the foundational principles of AA is the upside-down triangle, which symbolizes the structure of our service organization. At the top of the triangle are the AA groups, followed by group GSRs, districts, area assemblies, the General Service Conference, and finally, the General Service Board at the bottom. The unique shape of this triangle reminds us that the groups are the most important part of our service structure. They are where recovery begins, and it is from these grassroots levels that we draw strength and direction.
The Importance of Feedback
When we take the time to discuss Pre-Conference topics within our groups, we invite diverse perspectives and experiences into the conversation. This feedback is invaluable—not just for our Area Delegate, who carries our collective conscience to the General Service Conference, but for the entire fellowship. Each group’s insights help shape the decisions made at the conference, influencing how AA evolves and responds to the needs of its members.
Moreover, these discussions foster a sense of unity and purpose within our groups. They remind us that we are not just isolated individuals in recovery; we are part of a larger community dedicated to helping one another. By engaging with the topics and providing thoughtful feedback, we empower our members to feel more connected to the service structure of AA and to each other.
Helping the Still-Suffering Alcoholic
Ultimately, our discussions and feedback serve a greater purpose: reaching the still-suffering alcoholic. Every time we engage in these conversations, we advocate for the future of our fellowship and ensure that it remains relevant and accessible to those who are still struggling. By voicing our thoughts and concerns, we help create an environment where every alcoholic can find the help and healing they need, just as we did.
In conclusion, sharing the topics discussed at the Pre-Conference with our groups is not just a procedural task; it is an essential part of our commitment to service and recovery. By engaging in these discussions, we empower our members, support our Area Delegate, and ultimately enhance the experience of the still-suffering alcoholic. Let us embrace this opportunity to strengthen our fellowship and ensure that every voice is heard in the journey toward recovery. Together, we can make a difference—one meeting at a time.
With love and gratitude,
Christina M.
Alt DCM / District 33
Maple Valley, Covington, Black Diamond, Hobart, Ravensdale
Key decisions/activities from District 35 monthly business meeting, held on February 19, 2025:
Proposed date for this year’s District 35 Gratitude Dinner to be November 15, 2025.
Filled Treasurer and Alt Treasure positions; still several open positions to be filled.
Eastside Intergroup (ESIG) Chairperson (Ray) was a guest speaker at the meeting, to brief us on the current happenings at ESIG these days, and to explore opportunities for District 35 and ESIG to collaborate.
Continued discussion from January as to the 1-2 topics we’d like to tackle as a district in the coming year. Out of our discussion, two committees were formed:
Explore the best way to address ways to diversify those who attend our groups/meetings, so as to better reflect our changing community composition.
Explore how to raise awareness and attract younger persons who are suffering to our meetings in the area.
Key upcoming events:
March 15: Eastside Intergroup Pancake Breakfast; 10am-1pm; St. Thomas Episcopal Church; Medina WA
Eastside Districts Pre-Conference Meeting; March 22; 10am-2pm; St.Matthew’s Lutheran Church, Renton WA
Grateful to be in service,
John K.
Issaquah, South Sammamish Plateau
eastsideaa.org
Hello fellow trusted servants, it has been a great month to be a member of AA in the Snoqualmie Valley. Our district meeting in February hosted our Area Accessibility Chair, Bud W, for a presentation and questions on accessibility in AA. Our District Corrections Chair, Natalie C, got AA members into two volunteer orientations at Echo Glen Children's Center which is required for AA volunteers to get into the facility. Natalie is also working hard to get an AA meeting restarted after a multi-year hiatus. We are hoping to host an AA meeting soon for the teens and young adults currently at the facility. Our Events Chair, Jerry G, has hosted two events for the district at Hope Hall in Snoqualmie in February. We had a Super Bowl party and Valentine's dance with speaker meeting. We look forward to more fun fellowship happening throughout the year. The first area GSR event will happen in March - we will participate in the Eastside Districts Pre-conference on March 22 in Renton. This is important so our groups can be informed of what is happening at the General Service Conference in April this year. As a district we have participated in the ongoing Area discussion topic about the Newsletter. I have asked for group feedback on the Quarterly discussion topic, and I am participating in the Newsletter Ad hoc Committee to present information to the Area in April. Like most things that I have encountered in General Service, the information has really been eye opening. The ability to disseminate area service information to a large geographic audience seems important to keeping groups and districts involved in Area service. Is the newsletter in its current format the best way to do that? It's great that we get to discuss this and reach a group conscience as an area on what information is important and how we spend our 7th tradition funds to that end.
The newsletter topic for this month, Forming a Group Conscience, is particularly interesting as we discuss the Area topics and receive information from the Delegate on the GSC. What is my role as DCM and group member to achieve a group conscience? I think my most important role in a group conscience is to listen. Listen to everybody and pay special attention to the member who disagrees or expresses a minority opinion. Why do they feel that way? What point of view do they see that the rest of don't? Always be prepared to answer how the information and decision reflects the principles of AA expressed in the steps and the traditions. I have also noticed that we do not make important, weighty decisions in AA quickly. This allows us to gather the most information and opinions from the largest audience. I have cautioned groups in the past that making quick decisions about important items does not often reflect the spirit of AA. My alcoholic was impatient and could make snap decisions about really important life choices. I always hear that alcoholic voice when I am in a business meeting and listen to a member report that we have to do this now! Slow down and listen carefully; ask your higher power to be present, get out of the way, and let your group conscience shine through.
Grateful to be of service,
Mike L.
DCM D36
Northeast King County: Snoqualmie Valley, Duvall, North Bend, Carnation, Fall City Preston, Snoqualmie Pass
Upon a thorough review of District 41’s finances, we found that while our contributions have halved each year since 2022, our expenses have remained relatively consistent. Consequently, we must make some tough budget decisions to be fully self-supporting and financially responsible.
To meet our budget shortfalls, we are exploring several options:
Increasing outreach efforts
Utilizing 7th tradition opportunities
Organizing fundraising events
Seeking support from other districts for shared expenses
For instance, if your district is interested in collaborating on a booth at this year's Pride Festival, please contact Ganelle H, Alt DCM of District 41.
With Gratitude and Respect,
Ganelle H
Alternate DCM 41
Queen Anne/Magnolia
206-354-7023
North-Central Seattle: Queen Anne, Magnolia
Hello everyone, I remember when I went to my first group conscience (at the advice of my sponsor). I was why do I need to go to this, I was only about six months sober at the time. Then I saw what and how it operated. I have been to alot of group consciences since then, and for different groups and committee's as well. Each one operates completely different than the other one. But they all have the same purpose to come to a uniformed decision. I have formed a couple of group consciences for different groups, and setting up the responsibilities of each position is very important to help keep the group informed how it is being conducted and where and the monies are being spent. Laying out the guidelines or agenda for the group conscience is conducted is just as important. I do believe the best group conscience is one where everybody has the opportunity to be heard, and if someone has something they think is important then they should be looked into, instead of just shutting it down. I learned that the hard way.
Jim B. DCM
Port Orchard, Gig Harbor, Olalla, Key Peninsula
District 45 is happy and grateful to be working to help the still sick and suffering thru Valentines day and we have had some cold weather.
As we begin to get adjusted to the new Panel 75 rotation and fight the learning curve of transferring emails and bank accounts we are settling into a more normal routine of work and planning.
The district just hosted a very well attended GSR School with Lupita rocking the service house with a bunch of great topics. Just a few were touched upon;
The most important service position in AA is the GSR.
Sometimes suiting up and showing up is the best we can do, and that’s 1000 times better than not.
Exploring the Area 72 website is crucial.
Important Dates were talked about. Preconference, Assembly, Quarterlies
Effective communication from GSR to group
Unity, Fellowship, Friendship within the Committee Structure
We highlighted the new person in service
There was great participation and Q&As
Someone brought some FANTASTIC Maple Bars with BACON!
D9 and D29 DCMs Shannon who I called Kari 5 times and Fred
Pierce County doesn’t not have a face-to-face meeting for the pre-conference so we are organized and are having a viewing party of the Northern Districts Pre-Conference March 15th 10-2 at our local CSO office, but GSRs also will be traveling to Chehalis and Renton each about 30-45 minutes from Tacoma.
We have had some great discussions regarding Newsletter and King County Bus Signs.
We have several positions that still need to be filled. PI, Accessibilities, Grapevine and literature, and District Registrar.
District 45 is beginning to plan our Summer Picnic. Alt DCM Mary and GSR Darrel are booking venue.
District 54 is off to a busy start and there are a couple of key positions that we are still working to fill, one of which is the Alt DCM. The Service Committees/GSRs are all getting settled in. We hosted our Anniversary/Gratitude dinner in February, which was a lot of fun! We are also planning our District Orientation and Pre-Conference Watch Party which will both be held in March.
In thinking back to when I was a GSR, I recall the difficulties of getting all of the General Service Conference information in front of my Homegroup to establish our Group conscience given the limited time allotted by my Homegroup.
We found it beneficial to form a small group out of the Homegroup members to attend a “General Service Pre-conference” review. This is where we looked at the various topics and questions that our Delegate needed a response on. It generally took a couple meetings for this small group to form recommendations, which we took to the following Homegroup meeting and established our Group’s conscience.
Given the condensed timeframe, it was/is important to attend the Delegate’s Pre-conference meeting. Quite often, the topics seem to evolve and the Delegate’s emphasis on many topics may shift. As a GSR, I found that spending time discussing the topics with the small group and presenting the recommendations to the Homegroup, I became well informed on the Groups interests, and was able to address the topics as they evolved.
Attending the Delegate’s General Service Post-conference report out provided me with information to share back with my Homegroup and helped close the loop between the General Service Conference and my Homegroup.
With Gratitude,
David H.
D54 DCM