the pigeon - area36.org2011 december pigeon... · the pigeon newsletter of the southern minnesota...

The Pigeonwww.area36.org Newsletter of the Southern Minnesota Area 36 Assembly December 2011

The Pigeon is a confidential A.A. publication meant only for A.A. members. It contains members’ full names and addresses, just as A.A. directories do. This usage does not in any way violate our tradition of anonymity to the public communications media. Names, phone numbers, addresses, and email addresses may not be used for any solicitation purposes.

Delegate’s Report

www.area36.org Newsletter of the Southern Minnesota Area 36 Assembly December 2011

H ello everybody! By the time you read this, the first year of our rotation, for most of us, will have come and gone. I’m astonished at the amount of service work that has been

accomplished this year in the Groups, Districts and Area Committees. We’ve walked in Unity through a lot over the past year and I think Area 36 is stronger than it was a year ago. New faces coming into General Service; new groups springing up and beginning to partici-pate at District and Area are inspiring signs of growth of which I’m grateful to see. I’d like to take this time to thank you for your partici-pation in A.A. and your continued service in carrying the message to the still suffering alcoholic. Thank you.

I’ve enjoyed attending and participating in District workshops, meetings and Roundups over the past couple months. You’re warm welcome and hospitality is appreciated. In September, I attended the 2011 West Central Regional Forum in Davenport, Iowa. I participated by presenting on the topic “The Importance of Group Participation in the Service Structure.” It’s very important for the Groups to know that they run A.A. and that the Group’s voice is not only their right but their responsibility to share at District and Area. I enjoyed learn-ing more about what is going on in A.A. around the world and in our region as well as spending time with Regional friends, G.S.O. staff and Trustees.

The General Service Conference Communications Kit will be mailed to all Delegates at the end of December that will include a list of preliminary agenda items. Any additional agenda items for the 2012 General Service Conference are due no later than January 15, 2012.

At the General Service Conference in April 2012, (Class B – alco-holic) regional trustees from the West Central and the Western Canada Regions will be elected to serve four-year terms to succeed Ken B. and Victor P. respectively. Each Area in our region nominated a regional trustee candidate. Only past General Service Delegates were eligible for nomination. Area 36 elected Dennis B., Panel 41 delegate as our nominee, at the Fall Area 36 Assembly in Austin. Congratulations Dennis! I have submitted Dennis’s resume form to the General Service Office (G.S.O.) via certified mail-return receipt requested as instructed by G.S.O.

News and Notes• Work continues on the eBook project with a rollout date of mid-winter for the Fourth Edition Big Book and of the Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions in English, French and Spanish.

• G.S.O. staff is coordinating the tabulation of the 2011 A.A. Membership Survey.

• The La Viña Editorial Board has assisted the trustees’ subcommittee that is reviewing proposals for the Hispanic TV PSA by providing cultural perspective.

• Press releases are being developed for the upcoming eBooks introduction and to announce the new pamphlet “A.A. For the Alcoholic with Special Needs,” along with the newly revised pamphlets “Understanding Anonymity” and “The A.A. Member — Medications and Other Drugs.” Nonalcoholic G.S.O.

• Archivist Michelle M. participated at the 15th Annual National A.A. Archives Workshop in Helena, Montana, in September. G.S.O. Archives celebrates its 36th Anniversary on November 3.

• The 2011 – 2012 edition of The A.A. Service Manual/Twelve Concepts for World Service, reflecting actions of the 2011 General Service Conference, is now available in English, French and Spanish.

• Big Book unit distribution for the first nine months of 2011 was 716,084, as compared to 672,524 in the same time period in 2010. The distribution of Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions through the end of September 2011 totaled 299,844, as compared to 280,340 through September of last year. Large purchaser online sales totaled 34% of gross sales for the first nine months of 2011.

• Total revenue (contributions, gross profit from literature sales, and interest earned on cash flow) was $10,488,857. Total revenue was $48,906 (.46%) less than budgeted and $77,629 (.73%) less than the same time period last year. Contributions totaled $4,479,958. Total operating expenses were $10,194,978, approximately $293,847 (2.80%) under budget, and $545,763 (5.66%) more than during the same period in 2010.

Each day is a day to be grateful for the priceless gift of sobriety and the treasured fellowship of Alcoholics Anonymous. Warmest wishes to you and yours for a wonderful holiday season. May you enjoy a sane and sober New Year filled with the priceless gifts of sobriety.

See you at the Recovery, Unity and Service Conference!

Respectfully submitted, Angie E.Area 36 Delegate

Area Chair’s Report

C ongratulations to everyone on participating and completing year one of our 2011 – 2012 rotation! We just had our last Area Committee Meeting (ACM) on December 3, 2011. I am grate-

ful to all those who attended and participated, especially to those who were there for their first time! The meeting was well attended and lively with two proposals coming forward; one out of Archives and the other out of Finance. The Finance proposal was the proposal that the October Area Assembly recommitted back to Committee for further clarification. You can read more about the specifics of these proposals in the Minutes which are published in this issue of The Pigeon.

I am also grateful to report that at our October 22, 2011 Assembly, the 2012 proposed budget was passed with substantial unanimity. Additionally, our 2012 Area Calendar has also been finalized.

As I reflect on this past year of rotation and participation, I am grate-ful for all that I have learned and I am humbled by all that which I have yet to learn, as well as my own imperfections. However, what

I am most grateful for and humbled by is the continued dedication and participation of those trusted servants that continue to show up and work on behalf of the greater good for Area 36 and for A.A. as a whole. Watching our Area’s trusted servants making sacrifices, oper-ating from love, and having a willingness to continue to show up and participate is a privilege to bear witness to and certainly motivates me to do the next right thing in spite of myself. That is a Higher Power working in my life, doing for me what I cannot do for myself!

As we being our 2012 rotation, it is my hope that our Area continues to focus on communication, making decisions based on spiritual prin-ciples, supporting and enjoying the committee process as God would have us, and growing others in our service structure. One of the ways I hope to personally carry this out is by working more closely with our Committee Chairs as they would have me and to have a bet-ter understanding of our Area By-laws. It has become very apparent to me that when I am informed, I am better able to be of service to others and can communicate more effectively.

Continued on page 5

www.area36.org The Pigeon December 2011

Area DelegateAngie [email protected]

Alternate DelegateTerry [email protected]

Area ChairpersonLisa [email protected]

Alternate ChairpersonDoug [email protected]

Area SecretaryLisa [email protected]

Area TreasurerDenise [email protected]

2011 Area Officers

2011 Area Standing Committees Other Trusted ServantsArchivesCarla [email protected]

Cooperation with the Professional CommunityMissy [email protected]

CorrectionsLarry [email protected]

FinanceAlternate [email protected]

To email all Area 36 chairs at once, you can use [email protected]

GrapevineJeanne [email protected]

Group RecordsCarla [email protected]

LiteratureJoanie [email protected]

NewsletterJack [email protected]

Public InformationMary [email protected]

Remote Communities and Special Needs Deb [email protected]

StructureAlternate [email protected]

Treatment FacilitiesShelley [email protected]

Web SiteMichael [email protected]

(Non–voting members)

Corrections Facilities Contact Program CoordinatorMary [email protected]

Pink Can CoordinatorFrancis [email protected]

WebmasterAllie [email protected]

ArchivistPaul [email protected]

Treatment Temporary Contact DeskAndy [email protected]

2011 District Committee Members (DCMs)District 1Bill B.

District 2Cory J.

District 3Scott B. (District Contact)

District 4John H.

District 5Scott H.

District 6No contact available at this time, please contact Area Chair if you want to help.

District 7Ryan L. H.

District 8Tom B.

District 9Al M.

Districts 10No contact available at this time, please contact Area Chair if you want to help.

Districts 11No contact available at this time, please contact Area Chair if you want to help.

District 12Jerry S.

District 13Ann A.

District 14Chuck M.

District 15Kevin B.

District 16Missy P.

District 17Brad H.

District 18Chris G.

District 19Val L.

District 20Orville F. S.

District 21Patrick S.

District 22Sooze H.

District 23 Tom R.

District 24Marty T.

District 25Kelly T.

District 26Mark D.

Note: All districts have e-mail addresses on the Area 36 website. They are in the format of: dist#@area36.org, where “#” indicates a district number.

For example: [email protected]

To contact all DCMs at once use: [email protected]

Table of ContentsDelegate and Area Chair Reports ......................... Page 1Contact Information ........................................................2District Meeting Locations, Past Delegates ....................3Event Listings ..................................................................4Officer Reports ................................................................5Area Standing Committee Reports ............................6-10Area Financial Reports ............................................12-13Group Contributions and Pink Can Reports ............ 14-15District Reports ........................................................16-19SMAA Unapproved Minutes ...................................20-23From Our Archives ..................................................24-25Recover, Unity and Service Conference ..................26-29SMAA Calendars .....................................................30-31


What Is The Pigeon?The Pigeon is a General Service Newsletter published four times a year by the Southern Minnesota Area Assembly of Alcoholics Anonymous.There is no subscription fee; contributions from A.A. members, groups and districts are welcome.Bulk rate postage paid at St. Paul, Minnesota.The Pigeon presents the experience and opinions of A.A. members and others interested in the A.A. program.Opinions expressed herein are not to be attributed to Alcoholics Anonymous as a whole, nor does publication of any article imply endorsement by either A.A. or the Southern Minnesota Area Assembly.Articles and letters are invited, although no payment can be made, nor can contributed material be returned.All submissions should be sent to The Pigeon, in care of the Southern Minnesota Area Assembly address of record:Southern Minnesota Area Assembly. P.O. Box 2812 Minneapolis MN 55402Or you mail email them to the Newsletter Chair at [email protected]

Submissions to The PigeonGeneral submissions to The Pigeon are due the Saturday of Area Committee Meetings. Area Officers’ and Area Standing Committee Chairs’ submissions are due the Wednesday following Area Committee Meetings, to allow them to incorporate items of relevance into their reports from the Area Committee Meeting.Submissions are preferred electronically using a Word document to the Area’s newsletter email address: [email protected]. Submissions should not be heavily formatted: indicating sentence and paragraph structure is all that is required. Please do not submit as a “read only” document it may need to be edited for space or content.Letters to the Editor/Opinion should have a title and the city where the author is from included in the submission.PC and Mac users can also type their submissions directly into an e-mail message. PC users can also use Notepad, Wordpad or various versions of Word to create an attachment. Mac users, please save your file as type “.doc” or “.txt” before sending as an attachment if you do not type your submission directly into an e-mail message.Typewritten submissions are due 3 days earlier than general submissions; handwritten (printed please) submissions are due 7 days earlier than general submissions.If you have any questions regarding submitting an item for The Pigeon, from preparation, to formatting, to deadlines, please do not hesitate to contact me. Thank you!Jack J. The Pigeon Editor and Area 36 Newsletter Chair

Past Delegates of the Southern MN Area 36 to the General Service Conference of A.A.(Trustee: 1959 – 1963)Panel 1 1950 – 1951Pat C.deceased

Panel 3: 1953 – 1954Robert T.deceased

Panel 5: 1955Ferris W.deceased

Panel 5: 1956Murray L.deceased

Panel 7: 1957 – 1958Alf S.deceased

Panel 9: 1959 – 1960Harold S.deceased

Panel 11: 1961 – 1962Vince S.deceased

Panel 13: 1963 – 1964G.J. (Joe) W.deceased

Panel 15: 1965 – 1966Robert D.deceased

Panel 17: 1967 – 1968Jim F.deceased

Panel 19: 1969Marvin J.deceased

Panel 19: 1970George Z.deceased

Panel 21: 1971 – 1972Warren M.deceased

Panel 23: 1973 – 1974Earl L.deceased

Panel 25: 1975 – 1976Marvin S.deceased

Panel 27: 1977 – 1978Donald E. H.deceased

Panel 29: 1979 – 1980Bob B.

Panel 31: 1981 – 1982Stan M.

Panel 33: 1983 – 1984WCR Trustee: 1989 – 1992Don B.deceased

Panel 35: 1985 – 1986Richard K.deceased

Panel 37: 1987 – 1988Jack C.deceased

Panel 39: 1989 – 1990Chuck [email protected]

Panel 41: 1991 – 1992Dennis [email protected]

Panel 43: 1993 – 1994Esther H.deceased

Panel 45: 1995 – 1996Doug [email protected]

Panel 47: 1997 – 1998Karin [email protected]

Panel 49: 1999 – 2000Bonnie [email protected]

Panel 51: 2001 – 2002Christine [email protected]

Panel 53: 2003 – 2004Brenda L.

Panel 55: 2005 – 2006Mark [email protected]

Panel 57: 2007 – 8/2007Samira [email protected]

Panel 57-59: 8/2007 – 2010Scott [email protected]

District 13rd Wednesday, 6:30 P.M.Various locationsContact DCM

District 23rd Thursday, 7:00 P.M.First Lutheran ChurchRushford, MN

District 33rd Saturday, 9:00 A.M.Ellendale Community CenterEllendale, MN

District 4Contact Area Chair

District 5Contact DCM

District 6Contact Area Chair

District 72nd Monday 6:30 P.M.St. Andrew Lutheran Church13600 Technology DriveEden Prairie, MN

District 83rd Wednesday 7:30 P.M.Fairview Community Ctr.Roseville, MN

District 92nd Tuesday 7:00 P.M.1430 5th Ave.Taylor HallMankato, MN

Districts 10Contact Area Chair

Districts 11Contact Area Chair

District 123rd Monday, 8:00 P.M.Community HallSherburn, MN

District 131st Tuesday 7:00 P.M.United Methodist Church10506 Hanson Blvd. N.W.Coon Rapids, MN

District 141st Monday 7:30 P.M.United Methodist Church609 8th St. NWBuffalo, MN

District 154th Monday 7:00 P.M.Christ Lutheran Church11194 36th St.Lake Elmo, MN

District 163rd Thursday 7:00 P.M.Faribault Alano217 Central Ave.Faribault, MN

District 172nd Tuesday 7:30 P.M.St. John’s Lutheran,Plato, MN

District 182nd Wednesday 6:30 P.M.First Christian Church2201 1st Ave. S.Minneapolis, MN

District 192nd Wednesday 7:00 P.M.Rosemount Community Center, 13885 Robert TrailRosemount, MN

District 204th Tuesday, 7:00 P.M.Twin Lakes Alano Society4938 Brooklyn Blvd.Brooklyn Center, MN

District 212nd Tuesday 7:30 P.M.Pilgrim Methodist Church4325 Zachary Ln.Plymouth, MN

District 222nd Wednesday 7:30 P.M.St. Paul’s Lutheran Church13207 Lake St. Ext.Minnetonka, MN

District 233rd Thursday, 7:00 P.M.River Valley Church 100 N. Washington New Ulm, MN

District 241st Monday 7:00 P.M.St. John’s Lutheran Church119 8th Ave. W.Shakopee, MN

District 252nd Wednesday 7:30 P.M.Woodlake Lutheran Church7525 Oliver Ave. S.Richfield, MN

District 262nd Friday 6:00 pmEastside Alano1099 Payne Ave. St. Paul, MN

District 27Contact DCM

District Meeting Location Information


Submit event information to The Pigeon editor for inclusion. Please check the Area website at: www.area36.org for a more complete, current list of workshops, roundups, anniversary events, etc., of interest to the A.A. Fellowship. To ensure opportunity for attendance and participation at your event, please consider avoiding schedule conflicts with already scheduled and posted events. We publish A.A. non service events in the spirit of cooperation with others.

Roundups/Conferences/WorkshopsSouthern Minnesota Area Assembly 31st Annual

Recovery, Unity & Service ConferenceJanuary 6, 7 and 8, 2012Best Western Hotel, 1111 Range Street, North Mankato, Minnesota 56003

Friday, January 65:00 pm On-site Registration Begins

7:30 pm Welcome

7:45 pm – 8:45 pm Session 1: Sponsorship — Reliance or Guidance?

9:00 pm – 10:00 pm Session 2: Young or Old — Same Solution?

Saturday, January 78:00 am Registration Opens

9:00 am – 10:00 am Session 3: The Message We Carry

10:15 am – 11:15 am Session 4: Communication Today—I am Responsible

11:15 am – 1:00 pm Lunch (on your own)

1:00 pm – 2:00 pm Session 5: Principles For Our Future

2:15 pm – 3:15 pm Session 6: Moving Forward Through Rotation

3:30 pm – 4:30 pm Session 7: Service — Our Spiritual Inheritance

4:30 pm – 7:00 pm Dinner (on your own)

Saturday Open Speaker Meeting7:00 pm – 8:30 pm

Clayton V. Southwest Regional Trustee

8:45 pm – 9:15 pm Ask-It-Basket

9:15 pm – 10:15 pm Ice Cream Social and Fellowship

Sunday, January 89:00 am – 10:00 am

Session 8: Wisdom — Learning from the Experience of Others

10:15 am – 11:15 am Session 9: Anonymity and Affiliation — Practicing Spiritual Principles in the Digital Age

11:15 am – 11:30 am Conference Closing

Recovery, Unity & Service Conference Mission StatementThe primary purpose of the Recovery, Unity & Service Conference is to attract members to general service, inform new GSRs, and develop strong future servants. Through presentations and sharing of the selected readings based on the chosen theme, the Recovery, Unity & Service Conference fosters the growth of Area Committee members, and integrates the General Service Conference theme into Area service work.

Conference Registration$15.00/person (before 12/17/2011) • $17.00/person (after 12/17/2011)Best Western Hotel, 1111 Range Street, North Mankato, MN 56003 • Phone: 507.625.9333 • Toll Free: 1.800.780.7234Please ask for “Recovery, Unity & Service Conference” Room Rate. ($84.99 includes Continental Breakfast)Please pre-register by 12/17/2011. Complete, cut and mail with check payable to “SMAA” and send to SMAA, P.O. Box 2812, Minneapolis, MN 55402

Name City, State, Zip Home Group Service Position

The Gift of Sobriety“The Three Legacies of Alcoholics Anonymous ”

An Alcoholics Anonymous Symposium Sponsored by Districts 9, 12, and 23

Saturday March 3, 20125th Ave. AlanoMankato, MN

9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Special Guest: Rick C. Muscatine, IA

Come and enjoy a day of fun, food and fellowshipThe day will be filled with short presentations and allow everyone to

participate in an open exchange of experience, strength and hope.

Presentations by AA members Lunch-7th Tradition Open mic

AA Skit - “The Committee in Bob’s Head” Archives Door Prizes

This is an Open Event - Everyone is Welcome There is no admission or registration - just show up!

For more information or questions

Rod W. (New Ulm) Tom R. (Redwood Falls)

Al. M (Mankato) Jerry S. (Fairmont)

Doug A. (Mankato)

Schedule of events and map on back


Area Officer ReportsTreasurer’s ReportThings are going well with the finances. Thanks to the groups, we are able to easily keep our commitments paid for and committees are able to continue to carry the message to the still suffering alcoholic.

With the first year of this rotation coming to a close; I want to express my gratitude for the fellowship and the commitment to the area not only financially but also with talent. You have been very supportive of me in this venture. As always, if you need anything, please let me know.

Just a reminder of a couple items:

Please feel free to either email, mail or hand to me any reimbursement forms at any time, along with your receipts if applicable; however, I most likely will not pay you on the day I receive it. With that said, Lisa and I have put together a system that seems to work well. Just a reminder; each check requires 2 signatures. Of course, we will accommodate any emergency situation that may arise on an individ-ual basis.

Thank you to the committee chairs who so beautifully have been responsible in taking care of the reimbursement form when someone else is driving them to area events. Our policies indicate that you fill out the form and sign it for the individual being reimbursed. It is truly appreciated that this procedure is being adhered to.

I am planning on attending the West Central Regional Conference in Billings, Montana in March. I have made my plane reservations.

Please look over the financial statements which are included in this newsletter and if you have any questions, please feel free to contact me. The officer’s are stewards of your money and we do not take this responsibility lightly.

Respectfully submitted, Denise B. Area 36 Treasurer

Secretary’s ReportThank you for the privilege of serving as your Area 36 Secretary!

I would like to thank Phyllis S. for filling in for me and taking notes at the December Area Committee Meeting.

Due to scheduling conflicts, I was unable to attend the Officer’s meeting held in November and December. Please note that I missed the deadline for submitting the unapproved October 22, 2011 Area Assembly notes to The Pigeon. I will be sending out the unapproved notes via email to all on the Area 36 email list. I will also ensure that hard copies are available at the next Area Assembly. I apologize for the delay in getting these meeting minutes completed.

If you have any questions or concerns as it relates to the meeting notes or anything that the Secretary handles, please feel free to contact me directly.

Yours in Service, Lisa B. Area 36 Secretary

Press ReleaseAlcoholics Anonymous World Services, Inc. (A.A.W.S.) is pleased to announce that our two central texts describing the A.A. program of action for recovery from alcoholism are now available in eBook for-mat in English, French, and Spanish. The current, official publisher’s version of the Big Book (Fourth Edition), along with Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions, can be purchased for $6 each from the A.A.W.S. Online Store for access on iPhones and iPads. The A.A. eReader App can be downloaded for free from the Apple App store. In the near future, the books will also be available for the various Android platforms. To download the free A.A. eReader App, go to the Apple App Store. To purchase these two A.A. copyrighted eBooks, go to the A.A.W.S. Online Store at www.aa.org.

If you have any questions, comments, or concerns, please do not hesitate to give me a call or send me an email. It is a privilege to participate in Alcoholics Anonymous! Thank you for the opportunity to grow and the privilege to serve.

In love and service, Lisa G. Area 36 Chairperson

Alternate Delegate’s ReportNo Report.

Alternate Chair’s ReportThank you for giving me the opportunity to attend the West Central Regional Forum in Davenport, Iowa this past September. Through the course of the weekend it became clear that our members have very divergent views regarding our principle of the Right of Decision, which is described in the article on Concept III in our Service Manual. We had a spirited discussion in which some members advo-cated making decisions with little or no consultation before the fact, while others held that broad consultation in most matters is a vital responsibility of our trusted servants.

I also have the responsibility of chairing the Southern Minnesota Area Assembly’s annual Recovery, Unity and Service Conference, along with the committee which plans the Conference. The next Conference will be held at the Best Western Hotel in North Mankato on January 6 – 8, 2012. In spite of regular, monthly planning meet-ings, the planning committee fell behind schedule by about a month. The Conference involves the participation of more than 30 present-ers, committees, and organizations, and I have been scrambling to make sure that all these participants are aware of their roles at the Conference. I have personally spoken with all of the presenters and I’m excited about everyone’s participation — I think it will be a very interesting experience. Our speaker, Pam R., had to cancel due to health reasons, and we have lined up Clayton V. from Missouri, the incoming Southwest Regional Trustee, to replace her. If there is any-thing I can do for you please don’t hesitate to contact me. Thank you for the opportunity to serve.

In Service, Doug C. Area 36 Alternate Chairperson


Area Committee ReportsArchivesDuring the Archives Committee meeting on December 3, 2011, the majority of the time was spent discussing a possible new location for the Area 36 Repository. Currently the Repository is in Blaine MN, and it is a considerable distance from the Archivist. One of the possi-ble sites that the Archives Committee is reviewing is in Glencoe, MN.

The Area has had a repository since 1982. A repository needs to be “more than” a traditional storage unit, as it needs good temperature control to assist in the preservation of the paper documents, such as Southern MN Area Assembly incorporation papers; first editions of first, second, third and fourth editions of a Big Book; photographs of some of the places where the message has been and photo’s of the messengers of our past. I can assure you that the Repository does not hold any leftover bottles of folks’ last drinks! We do house the collective history of many past Delegates, past Roundups, District events, etc.

Speaking of past events: Archive Displays were found at the following events:

1. District 13: three “what is service” workshops held at three differ-ent Alano’s in November and December.

2. District 18: hosted a hospitality suite at MN Young People in A.A. (MNYPAA) Conference.

3. Founders Day on Thanksgiving weekend, with participation from Area 35’s archives. (The Archives Committee extends our thanks to the Founders Day Board for providing lodging to those volun-teering to staff the display that weekend.)

Other activities that I’ve been involved in have been a presentation at District 18; preparing to attend the WCRAASC in MT in March 2012; reviewing past Conference Reports and Conference Actions; preparing for a presentation for the January Recovery, Unity and Service Conference. An Archive Display will be there in Mankato too. A display will also be at the March Symposium co-sponsored by Districts 9, 12, and 23.

Thank you for this opportunity to be of service. I am available to come to District meetings and/or events. Let us know how we can better serve you.

In love and service, Carla N. Area 36 Archives Chair

Cooperation with the Professional CommunityThe Cooperation with the Professional Community committee had an exciting meeting at the Area Committee meetings on Saturday, December 3. There were three CPC chairs in attendance: Greg B. District 21, James G. District 22 and Rich S. District 17. We also enjoyed the company of two GSRs: Dave B., from the Self-Imposed Crisis group in District 17 (and former Area 36 CPC Chair) and Ingrid, from the Main Idea group in District 8.

We opened the meeting with the Serenity Prayer and introduc-tions Then, district CPC chairs shared about the CPC work they are engaged in.

James G. District 22 – James has put together a literature packet for health care providers including pamphlets, When & Where meeting directories, and Intergroup business cards. His plan was to take them to Park Nicollet where he knew the Dr. in charge of the residency pro-gram. However, there is a new Dr. in that position. James contacted the new Dr. but hasn’t heard back from her. He will attempt to make contact again.

James has also been reaching out to the law enforcement professionals with literature and an offer to meet with officers and staff for an AAI presentation. He modified a sample letter from the CPC kit and sent it to the public contacts for the police departments in St. Louis Park, Minnetonka, Hopkins and Golden Valley.

Greg B. District 21 – Greg is a newer CPC chair and is excited about attending Area Committee meetings to help generate ideas for CPC work he can do in his district. With support from his DCM, he is considering putting together a CPC breakfast, possibly in conjunc-tion with a neighboring district. He will be looking for support from districts who have hosted CPC breakfast such as District 13, District 7 and District 22.

Rich S. District 17 – Rich is hoping to find some AA members who are willing to serve on a CPC committee to help him reach out to pro-fessionals in his district. He has created literature packets for GSRs to take to their groups and distribute to AA members. The AA members are encouraged to take a packet and share it with a professional in their life. In addition, Rich has successfully visited many groups in his district to talk with them about how they can carry the message to professionals. He is also working on a plan to host a CPC breakfast in Hutchinson this fall.

Old Business

We reviewed a list of open speaker meetings compiled for the Twin Cities metro area. This list will be made available to professionals at the conferences where the Area 36 CPC committee hosts an informa-tion booth. We believe that inviting our professional friends to attend an open speaker meeting will help them gain an understanding of our program of recovery through hearing people share their personal stories of experience, strength and hope.

Missy W., Area 36 CPC chair, will create a second document of meetings in the greater Southern MN area. She has asked Carla W., Area 36 Group Records chair, for help with this project.

The Area 36 CPC committee is especially excited at the prospect of a new display geared towards professionals that we can use at the functions we attend. We chose a reasonably priced ($140) option that includes the banner, stand, and carrying case. We worked together to create the content of the display. We believe the banner should be clear and concise and decided it will read: “Do you have clients who want to stop drinking? We can help you help them. Alcoholics Anonymous”. We will need the help of a graphic designer to format the display. We are looking for an AA member to help us. We are planning on compensating this AA member for their time.

New Business

The CPC committee is planning on having a table display at the Recovery Unity Service Conference in January. We discussed the logistics of setting up the display and being available at the table to talk with people who’d like to learn more.

Another exciting upcoming event is the Minnesota Social Services Association Annual Training Conference and Expo in March. We are planning on submitting an application to present at the conference. For the 90 minute presentation we are planning on including an AAI talk, an AA member who came to AA through the help of a profes-sional share their experience, strength and hope, a brief history of how AA was helped by professionals during its beginning years and an overview of some of the common misconceptions about AA held by professionals. We will be sharing the commitment of staffing the booth with our friends from the Treatment committee. We are also considering putting out a bowl of candy/mints as a means of attrac-tions at professional events.

As always, I come away from Area Committee meetings inspired and refreshed with a renewed commitment to CPC work. Thank you to all the AA members who attended. Hope everyone had a safe drive home.

In love and service, Missy W.Area 36 Cooperation with the Professional Community Chair


Area Committee ReportsCorrectionsOur first action of this period was to visit Districts 18 and 8. We presented our Offender Contact Program, try to get the districts input on how best to get AA people to sign up to write to the offenders who have requested a pen pal.

In July we attended the Lino Lakes Transition Fair along with Aaron and Terry from District 13. We were able to have a conversation with the Department of Corrections Parole Agent Manager. We discussed the flow of an offender when he reaches one year left of his sentence. They start with case managers and then upon release turn them over to a Parole agent. The DOC (Department of Corrections) case manag-ers have very little knowledge of AA. We are currently trying to set up an AAI with them. Daniel from 180 Degrees asked if we might bring in a meeting to their halfway house in Minneapolis. I passed this on to District 18.

The Area Corrections Chair of Area 35 asked if we could help out with the Transition Fairs at Moose Lake and Rush City. We accompa-nied her to Moose Lake and signed up many offenders to our Contact Program. Our Contact Program Chair, Mary and I went to the Fair at Rush City. Again we signed up many offenders of our program. We also made contact again with RS Eden Reentry Ashland and would like to have weekly meetings brought into their halfway house for reentry offenders. RS Eden Reentry West also asked for meeting to be brought in. We passed this to Districts 8, 26, 18 and 19. No answer as yet on those requests.

We met with Outright Mental Defectives Group to talk about our Contact Program and we were able to sign up several members and also a few to be assigners.

We attended the Redwing Transition Fair in October and made con-tact with their treatment coordinator. They may try to set up their own group and register it with GSO.

We attended the Dakota County Resource Fair and were able to sign up a few offenders to our contact program. We made contact with a Jeff W.. He coordinates a meeting of Narcotics Anonymous that is also being attended by many alcoholics. He asked if we would be able to bring an AA meeting in every Saturday at 1 pm. We passed this to Districts 19, 15 and 25. No response yet.

We attended the Stillwater Transition Fair in November. The results were great with signing up offenders for our contact program. Daniel, from 180 Degrees, a halfway house informed me that AA is bringing in a Big Book meeting every Monday. Hats off to District 18.

We also met Michael Weaver. Michael is the Reentry Affairs Coordinator at the Federal Medical Center in Rochester MN. They are looking for us to be present at their first Transition Coalition Meeting coming this December. We will attend their first Transition fair some-time in February 2012 As far as I can tell this is the first opportunity for the Area to meet with the Federal Prison authorities.

We had a very well attended Committee meeting on December 3rd in Mankato. District 7 continues to be involved in the Downtown Jail meetings. District 13 is bringing meetings into Lino Lakes Correctional Facility. District 15 is busy bringing meetings to Stillwater Correctional Facility and Washington County jail. District 16 stays busy with meetings into the county jail. District 18 goes to Lino Lakes Correctional Facility. District 21 has a new chair and looking for opportunities. District 23 is having a tough time get-ting new recruits to go the Brown County Jail. You guys down there in Mankato, help him out. District 24 brings meetings into the Scott Count Jail and the Shakopee Women’s correctional Facility. Thanks to all for your service.

Lastly, we had a conversation with Tracy the GSO Corrections Chair. She informed us that there are 100+ men waiting for correspondence for fellow AA members. Most need to wait 3 or more months to get a letter from AA. She mentioned that most asked that someone write to them and help them with the 12 steps, be a step coach. This is very important work and we need all the help we can get from our area fellow AA members

Yours in service, Larry F. Area 36 Corrections Chair

Corrections Facilities Contact ProgramWe continue to work hard to carry the message to the alcoholic offender with the Contact Program. The rewards of this 12th step work are truly amazing! More than once I have heard an offender say they are amazed that people would help them in this way and not want anything in return. Recently I had the experience of seeing gratitude in action: One of those disbelieving offenders had filled out a form for an AA contact at a prison transition fair. Months later after release from prison, that same person, now a believing, grateful alcoholic, was putting away chairs at an AA meeting. I don’t know if he’s going to stay sober but I am, at least for today.

Here’s what we’ve been up to:

• Visited AA groups in Granite Falls, Luverne, Stillwater, and St. Paul and visited District 15 District meeting (Washington Co.) to spread the word we need more AA volunteers for the Corrections Contact Program in those areas.

• Attended Rush City, Red Wing, and Stillwater Correctional Facility transition fairs to offer our AA Contact Program as a resource to the offenders being released in the next 12 months.

• Began bi-monthly meetings with assignors to share experiences and brainstorm ideas on how to improve the contact program.

• Created form letters to offenders who have requested an AA contact but who are either more than 12 months from their release date or who are being released to a different State. For those offenders who are greater than 12 months from their release date, we will forward their requests on to the Corrections Desk at GSO to be assigned an AA member from their Corrections Correspondence Program for long-term offenders. (We have received GSO’s OK to forward these requests to them.) Those offenders who will be released to another State are given contact information for the nearest Central Office/Intergroup Office in the area they will be released.

12th Step Opportunities

1. AA contact person for Area 36 Contact Program: Write letters back and forth to offender while they are incarcerated sharing experi-ence, strength and hope. Help them get to an AA meeting within 24 – 48 hours of release.

Suggested requirements: one year sobriety. Off probation/parole from State correctional facility for two years. Can’t be taking an AA meeting into a State correctional facility.

2. Assignor: Match offenders with AA volunteers. No contact with offenders. Need internet access and phone. One year sobriety.

Suggested requirements: One year sobriety. Need to be diligent and persistent in calling AA members and staying in close contact with Corrections Contact Coordinator.

3. AA contact person for the GSO Corrections Correspondence Program: There is a backlog of over 100 offenders waiting for AA members to write to them through this correspondence program. They desperately need help with this 12th step work. Write letters back and forth to offender while they are incarcerated sharing expe-rience, strength and hope.

Suggested requirements: Although the GSO volunteer form doesn’t list any requirements, it seems reasonable to suggest one year sobriety.

Email Mary M. at [email protected]) to volunteer for these 12th step opportunities.

Thank you for the opportunity to be of service! Mary M. Corrections Facilities Contact Program Coordinator

Continued next page


Area Committee ReportsFinanceThe Area 36 Finance Committee met on December 3rd, 2011 with 8 people in attendance, including 6 district treasurers and finance chairs. The Finance Committee is responsible for monitoring the Area’s financial needs, policies, and practices; for reminding the groups of 7th Tradition opportunities; and for providing a clearing-house of information in the Area with respect to finances.

We reviewed the Area 36 Treasurer’s report on the Area’s finan-cial activity since January 1st, 2011. Denise, our Area 36 treasurer, pointed out that group contributions are at almost exactly the same level as last year, and that Area 36 recently bought 3 laptop com-puters for the Area Secretary, Area Treasurer, and Group Records Committee, for a total cost under $1000. A draft of the 4th quarter Finance letter was discussed, amended, and approved for mailing.

We then discussed the proposal to form a Financial Review Committee, which was voted down at the October Area Assembly. We currently pay a CPA $1000 each year. Of this $1000, $350 covers preparation and filing of an IRS Form 990 and a charitable organiza-tions report for the State of Minnesota. The remaining $650 covers the preparation and presentation of a report to the Area Committee. We noted that this year the CPA did not review any of our bank state-ments or receipts. Also, the CPA makes clear in the written report that, since the review is not as comprehensive as an audit, there is no opinion expressed with regard to the accuracy of our financial statements. One of the Finance Committee’s concerns is that we may not be receiving a good value for the $650 that we spend on the CPA review.

We noted that a CPA audit would probably cost in the range of $2500 – $4000 dollars, and that the Area Assembly has in the past felt that this is more money than we wish to spend. The Finance Committee’s hope is that a Financial Review Committee could com-plete a more thorough review of Area 36 financial activity, including review of some (though probably not all) bank statements, receipts, checks, and group contributions. We noted that skills needed should be readily available in our Fellowship, as they are the same skills that are needed to balance a checkbook. We felt the work could probably be completed in a single afternoon, perhaps in conjunction with the first Area Committee meeting of each year. Some Financial Review Committee members may need to be reimbursed for mileage to complete the review.

The Finance Committee rewrote the proposal to form a Financial Review Committee as a change to the Treasurer’s Trusted Servant Guidelines, as follows — Submit records to the Financial Review Committee on an annual basis. This committee should be com-prised of three members of the Area 36 Finance Committee, appointed by the Finance Chair. The Committee will prepare a written report, including any minority opinion, on an annual basis, to be presented to the Spring Area Assembly. The term of the committee is to be staggered with the Treasurer’s term.

Finally, we considered a request to review all the Area’s documen-tation (policies, guidelines, and forms) and practices regarding reimbursement of Area trusted servants. The objective of the request is to insure that all our expense reimbursement information and prac-tices are appropriate, clear, uniform and consistent with our Tradition of Self Support. The request asks that the Finance Committee recom-mend any changes needed to meet this objective.

In our discussion we considered the principles of self-support, pru-dence, and guidance through the group conscience. We noted that it would be helpful to keep the Area Assembly more fully informed about the expenses in the Area 36 budget. It was felt that Area Standing Committee chairs have permission to use their com-mittee budget as they see fit, but need to disclose their expenses. Concept III — the Right of Decision — is a guiding principle, and it is normal that there will be a tension between ultimate (group) and delegated (trusted servant) authority.

Given these principles, the Finance Committee will continue to discuss how much clarification should be provided in our policies, guidelines, and forms regarding reimbursement of trusted servants.

Thank you for the opportunity to serve, and please feel free to contact me with any questions or concerns. Please let me know if I can help you in any way.

In Service, Doug C. Area 36 Finance Committee Chairperson

GrapevineHoly Grapes!! The first year as Grapevine Area 36 Committee Chair is coming to a close and what a busy one it has been. I won’t recap every-thing, but some highlights where the Grapevine had a display and tried to carry its message were the Recovery, Unity and Service Conference, Sunlight of the Spirit, Gopher State Roundup, Southern Minnesota Roundup, Minnesota Young People in A.A. Conference, Founder’s Day and visits to several districts, as well as, all the Area Assemblies and Committee meetings. The Area 36 Grapevine Committee is proud to serve and is available when anyone reaches out for help.

The final quarter has been busy with attending the West Central Regional Forum where I was able to spend some time with Ami B., the new Grapevine Editor/Publisher and on the same weekend, Mike M. (with my great gratitude) displayed the Grapevine at the Southern Minnesota Roundup. I also attended a Grapevine Workshop put on by District 14; Minnesota Young People in A.A. had a confer-ence in October, the Area Assembly in Austin in October and then Founders Day in November and the last Area Committee meeting this past weekend. Whew! I can’t wait to start it all over again in 2012.

Just January alone has the Recover, Unity and Service Conference, the two Watertown groups in District 17 is putting on a workshop geared toward the newcomer and has requested a Grapevine presence and on January 28th, is the Trusted Servants Leadership Training. February has the first 2012 Area Committee meeting and the Area has its inventory, then in March there is the West Central Regional Service Conference in Billings, MT, with an Area Assembly the end of March. It’s wonderful!

Some important information in regards to the Grapevine: If anyone (individual, group, district, etc.) is considering subscribing to multiple copies of the Grapevine to be sent to the same address (i.e., a club, treatment center, hospital, library, etc.), the Grapevine does offer a substantial discount for this. Please give them a call and see what they can work out for you.

The Grapevine is currently offering a discount one two (2) gift subscrip-tions. Two (2) gift subscriptions can be purchased for $42.00. Visit the Grapevine online at aaGrapevine.org or call (800) 631-6025 to order.

The first eBook will be Language of the Heart coming this month and the Spanish version will be available in 2012. The book will be available for iPads, Kindle and Nook devices. You will find the eBook for purchase at the aaGrapevine.org store which will take you to the respective vendor for purchase.

Since August, 400 people have subscribed to Grapevine Complete which combines the print magazine and online subscriptions into one for $49.97, a $13.97 savings from purchasing these separately.

If anyone has considered placing the Grapevine in a library and they are unsure how to archive or label the magazine, suggest that they don’t and if it disappears it is still in good hands, as well as, another issue will arrive the next month.


Area Committee ReportsAs Area Chair a few issues have been brought to my attention in ref-erence to the new book Step by Step that was released in September, along with the 2012 “One Day at a Time” wall calendar. At this time, more research and information is needed, so more will be revealed if some action is needed. And, action will then be taken with the help of the fellowship. Please do not hesitate to send any comments, ques-tions, or concerns to me and I will, as timely as possible, find out whatever information is needed.

Remember, all upcoming events present an opportunity to serve by helping with the Grapevine display and/or becoming a Grapevine Representative for your group or district. The Grapevine is a signifi-cant service, let it begin with us.

Anyone who is interested in being a Grapevine Representative for your Group or District, or if you already are in that position and want to have more fun, please feel free to email me for information, or with questions, or help with a workshop, etc. I can be reached at [email protected].

Humbly grateful to serve you! Jeanne H. Area 36 Grapevine Chair

Group RecordsThank you for the opportunity to serve Area 36 as Group Records Chair. It’s hard to believe that we are already halfway through the rotation.

I most recently attended the West Central Regional Forum in Iowa in September. I also look forward to seeing many of you at the upcoming Recovery, Unity, Service Conference in North Mankato as well as the Trusted Servant Leadership Training.

We had a good turnout for the committee meeting on December 3rd, with representation from District 1, District 19 and District 18. All districts are working on group outreach and getting ready for the annual group records update with the General Service Office. An additional point of discussion was the area directory, which will be available to the Area Committee in January.

A couple reminders from the Group Records committee:• Any changes for your meeting: GSR Info, meeting location, day and time can be submitted to your local district using a group change form. Any changes will be sent to the area group records committee and updated in the Fellowship New Vision (FNV) database. This on-line database connects Area 36 directly to the general service office (GS0) and expedites information updates.

• Changes to group information should be sent to the local district and area as well as to your respective intergroup office. These are two separate, though cooperative, entities. This will ensure that all meeting information is correct at the local, district, area, and national level.

• Updates related to district committees, district meeting locations, dates or times should be sent to Group Records rather than Newsletter.

• Group records can provide a mailing list for all contacts within your District.

Please feel free to email me at [email protected] with any questions. Thank you for the opportunity to serve as your Area 36 Group Records Chair.

In Love and Service, Carla W. Area 36 Group Records Chair

LiteratureNo Report.

NewsletterWhat I am most grateful for this holiday season is the gift of sobriety. I only have my Higher Power to thank who works through my spon-sor, my home group, and the Area fellowship. Lately, it is as though AA is flowing through my veins, in huge contrast to the days when it was alcohol ruling my life. So I have you to thank and so many more who touch my life through our fellowship.

A special mention of thanks to Ken R. and Paul H. who contributed the article “Rip” found on pages 24-25 of this issue of The Pigeon. The amount of careful research and love of our fellowship are evident in their words.

I hope you are planning to attend the Recovery, Unity and Service Conference January 6 – 8 as I am in Mankato. It is a great opportunity to get “recharged” in the spirit of general service — and a very fun weekend to be a “part of.”

Yours in gratitude, Jack J. Area 36 Newsletter Chair

Public InformationHi! Here’s an update on what is going on with Public Information. Area 35’s PI chair and I worked together to create a document with the idea that it will be made available at rest stops all over Minnesota. Roger (Area 35’s PI) is (or has) submitted this to Explore Minnesota to get their approval.

On November 12, myself and 3 other volunteers participated in Project Parent Connect in South Minneapolis. This event was put on by PICA Head Start, which is an agency that services low-income children and parents. These families come from some of the poorest neighborhoods in Hennepin County. We distributed a few pamphlets and, more importantly, we made contacts with the staff. I asked them to let us know if there’s any other way we can be helpful to them.

Thank you for allowing me to serve! Mary S. Area 36 Public Information Chair

Remote Communities and Special NeedsGreetings everyone! Unfortunately I was unable to be with you in Austin when the Assembly met. I work in a “remote community,” a nursing home, and it was there that I fulfilled my obligation to meet their needs while you were assembled in Austin. I hope you had the most pleasant of days and pray you all had a “beautiful” drive to and from Austin.

I had the privilege of being in Sherburne for their district meet-ing. I shared with them my experience with service work and what the focus of Remote Communities and Special Needs committee is. Thank you, District 12 for the invite!

I attended District 4’s monthly meeting in Willmar. I had the privilege of attending their 12 Step Workshop in November. A great time was had by all!

Also, in September, I had the opportunity to be a part of a Grapevine workshop in District 14. I played a part in a skit called, “The Sound of Boozing.” It was a great day!

Thank you for the opportunity to be of service!

In love and service, Deb S. Area 36 Remote Communities/Special Needs

Continued next page


Area Committee ReportsStructureThe Structure Committee meeting on December 3rd was Chaired by Mark M., Past Delegate and Alternate Structure Chair. There were eight Alt. DCMs and one visitor participating.

Minutes• Status of projects: Redistricting — complete. Trusted Servant Guidelines — completed. Area Communications improve-ment — District 7 pamphlet complete and can be used for other districts communication.

Old Business• Group Records information (Lorri C. absent) — Discussion to reach out to Carla W. (Group Record Area 36). This will help with better distribution of the Area Pigeon.

• Website enhancements — Group Outreach docs are cumbersome to find. Web committee is working on streamlining these docs for better use for Districts and Area. Discussion of a Group Outreach button. Currently documents are difficult to upload an enhancement will hopefully make this easier.

• Outreach illumination status — It’s “illuminated” by way of the past Assembly events.

• Area 36 business cards are available.

New Business• TSG update — Review ongoing process. In 2nd year starting 2014, February Committees Review TSG doc.

• May internal review by Structure Committee. August Area Committee Meeting vote. Define process for ongoing action/minutes.

• Action book — Subcommittee will work with Area Secretary to col-lect action book and past minutes.

• Area election and voting policy. Referenced the “Area 36 Procedure Policy” — declared it as sufficient. Discussed 2/3 majority vote vs. simple majority.

• Who will handle the TSLT — currently handled by the Area Chair. Should it be handled by Area Structure Committee? Proposal “the Area Alt. Delegate should manage the responsibility of the TSLT event” — tabled until next Structure Committee.

Respectfully submitted by Terry L. Area 36 Alternate Delegate and Structure Chair

WebsiteNo Report.

TreatmentThank you for the honor and privilege of representing you at our West Central Regional Forum in Davenport, Iowa. I am always more grate-ful and “fired up” after meeting with members of our General Service Board. I was able to speak to several Past and Current Delegates, Class A and B Trustees and Board Members about their experience, strength and hope. My love for Alcoholics Anonymous and concern for our future was shared and made me feel even more passionate about working harder towards ensuring we stick to our principles, steps, traditions and concepts. I look forward to seeing all my West Central Regional friends again in Billings, Montana in March for the WCRAASC.

Here is a report from Tim M., Alternate Treatment Chair who rep-resented Area 36 as your Treatment Chair at the Bridging the Gap Workshop that was held the same weekend as the WCRF this year:

I had the privilege of attending the Bridging The Gap Workshop (BTG) in Sacramento CA this past September. People from across the United States and Canada attended. They had a panel of speakers from the California Department of Corrections and from Treatment Centers that were very interesting. Mary D. the new Treatment person from the GSO was there and spoke as well. I shared my experience with our Temporary Contact Program with the other attendees. They hope to have BTG featured in an issue of the Grapevine sometime in 2013. The next BTG will be in Bloomington MN in September 2012. Chicago was selected for 2013.

At the most recent ACM, we discussed the following:

1. The Temporary Contact Program: we are still looking for more volunteers in the outer parts of the Metro. We talked about a more visible form for AA Members to sign up for the TCP. Questions? Please contact Andy D. via email at [email protected].

2. District 7 is working on a “Sponsor Speed Dating Program” at a treatment center in their district where patients can meet a num-ber of people at once who are willing and able to sponsor. This is a program in the works that is looking to be rolled out by March 2012. District 7 has also been quite active putting on AAIs and Workshops with 2 outpatient facilities in their district. I was asked to speak at the District 7 Meeting last month and was thrilled with all the activity going into Treatment Centers, Facilities and Detoxes.

3. Bridging the Gap 2012 will be in Bloomington, MN!!! We are looking forward to hosting again and will be looking for volunteers over the next several months to get the workshop staffed and set up. September 7 – 9, 2012 at the Minneapolis – St. Paul Airport Hilton in Bloomington, MN.

4. District 13 has a Blue Can Plan where groups have a blue can specifically for Treatment Literature contributions. The money is then sent to the district to purchase the literature. They have already collected $600. Note: This is separate from the Pink Can Plan currently in place for Corrections Literature Contributions.

5. Treatment Committee and CPC Committee will be working together on the Minnesota Social Services Association (MSSA) Expo March 13 – 16, 2012.

6. District 22 has purchased over $250 of literature so far for the Wayside House and is working on getting the Temporary Contact Program set up in a few other treatment centers in their district.

Please let me know if you or someone you know is interested in being of service. I would be happy to come visit your groups and districts anytime!

I look forward to seeing everyone at the Recovery, Unity and Service Conference in January.

In Love and Service, Shelley E. Area 36 Treatment Chair [email protected]

Want to know more about your

Area Standing Committees?

Please attend an Area Committee Meeting to check them out.

The next one is Saturday, February 4th and starts at 9:30 AM.

Please see page 2 for a complete listing of contact names,

phones numbers, and email addresses, so you and your A.A.

friends can be of help to A.A.


Area 36 Maps

Metro Area

Districts


Southern Minnesota Area Assembly Financial Statements

Page 1 of 1

Southern Minnesota Area AssemblyBalance Sheet Prev Year ComparisonAs of November 27, 2011

Nov 27, 11 Nov 27, 10 $ Change

ASSETSCurrent Assets

Checking/SavingsTCF CHECKING 18,254.17 18,443.84 -189.67TCF DELEGATE'S FUND

General Service Conference Fund 1,200.20 1,200.35 -0.15International Convention Fund 999.40 812.75 186.65

Total TCF DELEGATE'S FUND 2,199.60 2,013.10 186.50

TCF RESERVE FUND 11,100.00 10,103.78 996.22Total Checking/Savings 31,553.77 30,560.72 993.05

Other Current AssetsInventory

Inventory - Grapevine 1,419.80 0.00 1,419.80Total Inventory 1,419.80 0.00 1,419.80

Prepaid Expenses 1,727.00 0.00 1,727.00Total Other Current Assets 3,146.80 0.00 3,146.80

Total Current Assets 34,700.57 30,560.72 4,139.85

Fixed AssetsAccumulated Depreciation -464.00 -464.00 0.00Equipment 464.00 464.00 0.00

Total Fixed Assets 0.00 0.00 0.00

Other AssetsTCF PINK CAN CHECKING 1,425.90 5,044.52 -3,618.62

Total Other Assets 1,425.90 5,044.52 -3,618.62

TOTAL ASSETS 36,126.47 35,605.24 521.23

LIABILITIES & EQUITYEquity

Opening Bal Equity -13.38 0.62 -14.00Unrestricted Fund 29,189.05 28,487.38 701.67Pink Can Fund 5,560.87 6,133.08 -572.21Net Income 1,389.93 984.16 405.77

Total Equity 36,126.47 35,605.24 521.23

TOTAL LIABILITIES & EQUITY 36,126.47 35,605.24 521.23

Page 1 of 1

Southern Minnesota Area AssemblyIncome & Expense Prev Year ComparisonJanuary 1 through November 27, 2011

Jan - Nov 2011 Jan - Nov 2010 $ Change % Change

Ordinary Income/ExpenseIncome

GROUP CONTRIBUTIONS 44,638.24 44,993.83 -355.59 -0.79%SPECIAL CONTRIBUTIONS 2,959.49 3,114.06 -154.57 -4.96%COMMITTEE REVENUE 2,223.00 2,206.75 16.25 0.74%OTHER REVENUE 5,763.11 3,855.38 1,907.73 49.48%INTEREST 3.01 4.52 -1.51 -33.41%

Total Income 55,586.85 54,174.54 1,412.31 2.61%

ExpenseASSEMBLY EXPENSES 10,311.83 10,459.59 -147.76 -1.41%COMMITTEE EXPENSES 23,741.72 25,153.22 -1,411.50 -5.61%COMMITTEE TRAVEL AND LODGING 6,710.56 4,166.26 2,544.30 61.07%DELEGATE EXPENSES 2,137.21 2,377.52 -240.31 -10.11%OFFICER TRAVEL AND LODGING 3,215.07 2,664.10 550.97 20.68%OTHER EXPENSES 3,945.56 3,250.02 695.54 21.4%

Total Expense 50,061.95 48,070.71 1,991.24 4.14%

Net Ordinary Income 5,524.90 6,103.83 -578.93 -9.49%

Other Income/ExpenseOther Income

PINK CAN PLAN 29,916.64 30,924.24 -1,007.60 -3.26%Total Other Income 29,916.64 30,924.24 -1,007.60 -3.26%

Other ExpensePINK CAN EXPENSES 34,051.61 36,043.91 -1,992.30 -5.53%

Total Other Expense 34,051.61 36,043.91 -1,992.30 -5.53%

Net Other Income -4,134.97 -5,119.67 984.70 -19.23%

Net Income 1,389.93 984.16 405.77 41.23%

Financial Performance Highlights November 27, 2011

Assets

• The total amount of the Area’s Operating Fund shall not exceed one third of the current year’s annual budget, excluding Pink Can Plan budget items or: $22,100. Current balance $18,254.17.

• The total amount of the Reserve Fund shall not exceed one sixth of the current year’s annual budget, excluding Pink Can Plan budget items or: $11,100. Current balance $11,100.

• The maximum available funds total of the Reserve and Operating Funds, but excluding the Delegate’s fund and the Pink Can Plan budget line items shall never exceed one half of the current year’s budget, not including Pink Can Plan budget items or: $33,400. Current balance $29,354.17.

• The Delegate’s Account shall never exceed the amount that it has been set forth to represent: Delegate’s General Service Conference fund: $1,200. Current balance $1,200.20. Delegate’s International Fund: $1,000. Current balance $999.40.

• Equipment: Purchased a computer in 1999 for a purchase price of $464.00. Life of computer about 3 – 5 years. Computer is depreciated out; no market value on the computer.

• Inventory has been recorded from the Grapevine committee.• Prepaid expenses: Plane tickets purchased for four committee members to attend the West Central Regional Service Conference in Billings, MT in March 2012.

Equity

• Unrestricted Fund (Money not earmarked for anything in particu-lar) — Income over expenses since the inception of SMAA through December 31, 2010. This money is where the cash flow comes from.

• Pink Can Fund — Income over expenses since the inception of the Pink Can Plan through December 31, 2010. This money is where the cash flow comes from.

• Net Income/Loss: Income over Expenses for the current year.

Income

• Group contributions are under the projected budget however are about the same received this time last year.

• Roundup/District/Intergroups: Received $1,430 from Gopher State Round-up and $166.50 from Founder’s Day.

• Area 35 reimbursed Area 36 $500 for State Fair Booth and $120 web hosting fees 2010.

• Beginning to see some reservations for the 2012 Recovery, Unity and Service Conference.

• Coffee/Food: Coffee reimbursement Area Committee Meetings, Assemblies and Trusted Servant Leadership Training (TSLT).

Expense

• Meeting Room Rent: Includes $1,600 was paid to Peace Lutheran for TSLT. This included everything i.e. space, food, supplies, cooks, rent, set-up/take-down etc.

• Office equipment: A laptop was purchased for the Treasurer and Secretary at under $300 apiece. Both were using their own personal computers.

• Supplies: this includes purchase of 2011 version of QuickBooks. Also includes purchase of 5,000 contributions envelopes.

• Telephone: Last year conference calls were used for officers to meet; this year we physically meet and the mileage expense is under the respective officer travel and lodging expense budget.

• Correctional Facilities Expense — Other: This includes brochures bought for the temporary contact program for both inside and outside of the prison walls plus contact forms and travel to Bridging the Gap Conference in Sacramento, CA.

• Group records expense includes the purchase of a laptop for under $300. Current computer is old, slow and unreliable.

• Literature expense will be adjusted when the inventory dollars are recorded.

• Treatment Facilities: $735 was recorded for the Minnesota Association of Resources for Recovery and Chemical Health (MARRCH) held in September 2011 in St. Paul. Also included is the travel to Bridging the Gap Conference in Sacramento, CA.


Southern Minnesota Area Assembly Financial Statements

Page 1 of 4

Southern Minnesota Area AssemblyIncome & Expense Budget OverviewJanuary 1 through November 27, 2011

Jan - Nov 11 Budget $ Over Budget % of Budget

Ordinary Income/ExpenseIncome

GROUP CONTRIBUTIONSGroup Contribution 43,817.59 50,343.10 -6,525.51 87.04%Group Contribution - Birthday 820.65 874.90 -54.25 93.8%

Total GROUP CONTRIBUTIONS 44,638.24 51,218.00 -6,579.76 87.15%

SPECIAL CONTRIBUTIONSAnonymous 34.10 10.00 24.10 341.0%Birthday 393.15 763.00 -369.85 51.53%In-Kind 634.99 294.30 340.69 215.76%Individual 300.75 95.10 205.65 316.25%Refund/Reimbursement 0.00 30.00 -30.00 0.0%Roundups/Districts/Intergroups 1,596.50 0.00 1,596.50 100.0%

Total SPECIAL CONTRIBUTIONS 2,959.49 1,192.40 1,767.09 248.2%

COMMITTEE REVENUEGrapevine 784.00 875.00 -91.00 89.6%Literature 819.00 1,000.00 -181.00 81.9%Public Information

State Fair Exhibition 500.00 500.00 0.00 100.0%Total Public Information 500.00 500.00 0.00 100.0%

Web-SiteWeb Hosting 120.00 0.00 120.00 100.0%

Total Web-Site 120.00 0.00 120.00 100.0%

Total COMMITTEE REVENUE 2,223.00 2,375.00 -152.00 93.6%

OTHER REVENUERUS Conference

Ice Cream 270.75 0.00 270.75 100.0%In-Kind 453.30 654.50 -201.20 69.26%7th Tradition 214.99 180.00 34.99 119.44%Coffee/Food 416.75 360.00 56.75 115.76%Registration 2,970.00 3,255.00 -285.00 91.24%

Total RUS Conference 4,325.79 4,449.50 -123.71 97.22%

Coffee/Food 1,437.32 1,175.00 262.32 122.33%Total OTHER REVENUE 5,763.11 5,624.50 138.61 102.46%

INTERESTDelegate Fund

International Convention Fund 0.50 0.75 -0.25 66.67%Total Delegate Fund 0.50 0.75 -0.25 66.67%

Reserve Fund Interest 2.51 9.00 -6.49 27.89%Total INTEREST 3.01 9.75 -6.74 30.87%

Total Income 55,586.85 60,419.65 -4,832.80 92.0%

Page 2 of 4


ExpenseASSEMBLY EXPENSES

Fixed CostsAccounting Expenses 1,000.00 1,000.00 0.00 100.0%General Service Conf Contrib 1,200.00 1,090.00 110.00 110.09%Insurance 398.00 370.00 28.00 107.57%Int'l Convention Delegate Fund 0.00 190.00 -190.00 0.0%State Filing Fees 25.00 25.00 0.00 100.0%

Total Fixed Costs 2,623.00 2,675.00 -52.00 98.06%

Operating CostsCoffee/Food 644.22 1,175.00 -530.78 54.83%Event Taping 50.00 401.00 -351.00 12.47%Meeting Room Rent 3,568.07 2,175.00 1,393.07 164.05%Miscellaneous 11.80 272.50 -260.70 4.33%Office Equipment 519.98 142.60 377.38 364.64%Postage 704.03 1,090.00 -385.97 64.59%Printing & Copying 1,403.59 2,159.00 -755.41 65.01%Supplies 717.19 163.50 553.69 438.65%Telephone 69.95 817.50 -747.55 8.56%

Total Operating Costs 7,688.83 8,396.10 -707.27 91.58%

Total ASSEMBLY EXPENSES 10,311.83 11,071.10 -759.27 93.14%

COMMITTEE EXPENSESArchives Expense

Archives Storage & Maintenance 4,500.00 4,905.00 -405.00 91.74%Archives Expense - Other 422.40 1,090.00 -667.60 38.75%

Total Archives Expense 4,922.40 5,995.00 -1,072.60 82.11%

Correctional Facilities ExpenseCF Temporary Contact Services 720.00 872.00 -152.00 82.57%Correctional Facilities Expense - Other 2,334.70 1,090.00 1,244.70 214.19%

Total Correctional Facilities Expense 3,054.70 1,962.00 1,092.70 155.69%

CPC Expense 433.25 1,920.00 -1,486.75 22.57%Finance Expense

Finance Letter & Mailing 858.23 900.00 -41.77 95.36%Finance Expense - Other 0.00 120.00 -120.00 0.0%

Total Finance Expense 858.23 1,020.00 -161.77 84.14%

Grapevine Expense 857.07 875.00 -17.93 97.95%Group Records Expense 411.19 229.00 182.19 179.56%Literature Expense 2,169.79 1,218.00 951.79 178.14%Newsletter Expense 4,262.61 4,245.00 17.61 100.42%Public Information

State Fair Booth 1,669.34 1,415.00 254.34 117.98%Public Information - Other 102.54 922.00 -819.46 11.12%

Total Public Information 1,771.88 2,337.00 -565.12 75.82%

Remote Communities 61.80 84.00 -22.20 73.57%Structure Expense

Area Development 271.62 800.00 -528.38 33.95%Area Directory 0.00 300.00 -300.00 0.0%Structure Expense - Other 160.82 163.50 -2.68 98.36%

Total Structure Expense 432.44 1,263.50 -831.06 34.23%

Treatment Facilities ExpenseTF Temporary Contact Services 800.00 872.00 -72.00 91.74%Treatment Facilities Expense - Other 1,548.32 1,520.00 28.32 101.86%

Total Treatment Facilities Expense 2,348.32 2,392.00 -43.68 98.17%

Web-SiteMeeting Locator 1,800.00 1,800.00 0.00 100.0%Web-Site - Other 358.04 436.00 -77.96 82.12%

Total Web-Site 2,158.04 2,236.00 -77.96 96.51%

Total COMMITTEE EXPENSES 23,741.72 25,776.50 -2,034.78 92.11%

Page 3 of 4


COMMITTEE TRAVEL AND LODGINGArchives

Archives Display 155.76 1,090.00 -934.24 14.29%Archives - Other 466.16 1,305.00 -838.84 35.72%

Total Archives 621.92 2,395.00 -1,773.08 25.97%

Correctional Facilities 659.97 1,284.00 -624.03 51.4%CPC 48.51 1,996.00 -1,947.49 2.43%Expected Variance 0.00 -7,463.20 7,463.20 0.0%Grapevine

Grapevine Display 518.00 1,225.00 -707.00 42.29%Grapevine - Other 342.58 1,433.00 -1,090.42 23.91%

Total Grapevine 860.58 2,658.00 -1,797.42 32.38%

Group Records 799.59 1,306.00 -506.41 61.22%Literature

Literature Display 315.20 975.00 -659.80 32.33%Literature - Other 1,012.18 1,326.00 -313.82 76.33%

Total Literature 1,327.38 2,301.00 -973.62 57.69%

Newsletter 609.36 1,271.00 -661.64 47.94%Public Information 339.13 1,392.00 -1,052.87 24.36%Remote Communities 0.00 1,546.00 -1,546.00 0.0%Treatment Facilities 694.30 2,006.00 -1,311.70 34.61%Web-Site 749.82 1,596.00 -846.18 46.98%

Total COMMITTEE TRAVEL AND LODGING 6,710.56 12,287.80 -5,577.24 54.61%

DELEGATE EXPENSESDelegate Expense 152.73 118.00 34.73 129.43%Delegate Printing 373.35 475.00 -101.65 78.6%Delegate Travel and Lodging 1,611.13 2,004.00 -392.87 80.4%Past Delegate Travel 0.00 272.50 -272.50 0.0%

Total DELEGATE EXPENSES 2,137.21 2,869.50 -732.29 74.48%

OFFICER TRAVEL AND LODGINGAlt Area Chair Travel & Lodging 294.92 1,425.00 -1,130.08 20.7%Alt Delegate Travel and Lodging 1,023.01 1,438.50 -415.49 71.12%Area Chair Travel & Lodging 1,005.62 1,406.00 -400.38 71.52%Expected Variance 0.00 -2,157.30 2,157.30 0.0%Secretary Travel and Lodging 250.06 1,410.00 -1,159.94 17.74%Treasurer Travel and Lodging 641.46 1,506.50 -865.04 42.58%

Total OFFICER TRAVEL AND LODGING 3,215.07 5,028.70 -1,813.63 63.93%

OTHER EXPENSESRUS Conference

Committee Travel 663.47 400.00 263.47 165.87%Chair Travel/Lodging 332.80 1,620.00 -1,287.20 20.54%Coffee/Food 497.75 300.00 197.75 165.92%Copying/Supplies 378.55 100.00 278.55 378.55%Hall/Equipment Rental 1,211.85 1,300.00 -88.15 93.22%Speaker 228.63 800.00 -571.37 28.58%RUS Conference - Other 333.51 0.00 333.51 100.0%

Total RUS Conference 3,646.56 4,520.00 -873.44 80.68%

Delegate's Workshop 299.00 500.00 -201.00 59.8%Total OTHER EXPENSES 3,945.56 5,020.00 -1,074.44 78.6%

Total Expense 50,061.95 62,053.60 -11,991.65 80.68%

Net Ordinary Income 5,524.90 -1,633.95 7,158.85 -338.13%

Page 4 of 4


Other Income/ExpenseOther Income

PINK CAN PLANPink Can Plan Contributions 29,916.64 31,457.40 -1,540.76 95.1%

Total PINK CAN PLAN 29,916.64 31,457.40 -1,540.76 95.1%

Total Other Income 29,916.64 31,457.40 -1,540.76 95.1%

Other ExpensePINK CAN EXPENSES

Pink Can - Non Literature 277.99 0.00 277.99 100.0%Pink Can Literature 33,773.62 31,457.40 2,316.22 107.36%

Total PINK CAN EXPENSES 34,051.61 31,457.40 2,594.21 108.25%

Total Other Expense 34,051.61 31,457.40 2,594.21 108.25%

Net Other Income -4,134.97 0.00 -4,134.97 100.0%

Net Income 1,389.93 -1,633.95 3,023.88 -85.07%


August 1, 2011 through November 27, 201112 at 12 Group ..............................................................100.0042nd Street AA Group ................................................. 28.00A New Freedom ............................................................ 20.00A Vision For You - Faribault ..........................................8.00A Vision For You - Lakeville ....................................... 35.00A. A. Tuesday A. M. Group - Burnsville .................. 20.00AA Groups at Fairview Riverside ........................... 152.07Age of Miracles AA .....................................................225.00Alano Society of Minneapolis - Squad 21 ............ 30.00Alano Society of Minneapolis, Squad 44 ............. 10.00Amazing Grace A.A. ..................................................... 33.00Amigos Group ............................................................... 45.44Artists & Musicians Tuesday AA ............................... 30.00As Bill Sees It - Delano ................................................. 32.00Autonomous Big Book ............................................... 90.00Back To Basics - Coon Rapids - Tuesday AM ...... 125.00Back To Basics Big Book Burnsv. ................................27.11Back to Basics Mpls Friday ......................................... 40.00Backseaters A.A. Group .............................................. 60.00Bar None AA Group ......................................................55.87Basic Text AA .................................................................. 54.40Basic Text Women’s Group ........................................ 46.42Basic Twelve Group ...................................................... 26.58Blaine Alano, Squad 16 ............................................... 40.00Bloomington Hyland Club ......................................100.00Bloomington Sq 57 ......................................................... 9.70Boiler Room Squad ...................................................... 25.00Bridge to Shore Group* ...............................................91.90Bridges Shakopee ......................................................... 20.23Bryant Lake AA .............................................................. 82.90Bryn Mawr AA .................................................................20.18Buffalo Friday Night ..................................................... 22.00By The Book AA ............................................................. 36.00Cannon Falls AA ...........................................................149.10Cavalier West Thursday Night Men’s Group ....... 33.50Center Group ................................................................. 40.00Chaska Brothers of AA .................................................31.00Chaska River Valley AA ................................................22.61Chunks and Measures ..................................................70.61Club 84 AA Group ........................................................ 33.00Common Solution ...................................................... 227.52Como Park Big Book Study ....................................... 80.00Complete Defeat ........................................................100.00Coon Rapids Alano, Squad 11* Serenity Sis ......... 25.00Cottage Grove AA ...................................................... 120.00Courage Group ............................................................100.00CRC Friends of Bill W.................................................... 50.00Crushed Grapes ........................................................... 163.00Daily Reprieve ................................................................ 33.33Dakota Alano Monday Night Big Book 600PM ...15.00Dakota Alano Society, Friday 6 pm ........................ 66.50Dakota Alano Sunday 8 PM Meeting ..................... 30.00Dakota Alano Wed. 8PM .............................................15.00Dakota Alano, Thursday 1145 AM Group ..............17.00Dawson AA ...................................................................100.00Defogged Mens A.A. Group ..................................... 30.00Design for Living - Minneapolis ...............................30.14Design For Living (Big Book) .................................. 110.00Desire Open Speaker Meeting ....................................6.06District 1 General Service ........................................200.00Dunn Sober AA ........................................................... 324.82Dynamic Women’s Group ..........................................41.50Early Risers Step & Tradition Group.........................15.00Edina Open Speaker Meeting .................................. 50.00Edina Women’s Group ................................................ 40.00Elders AA 12 Step .......................................................... 20.00Fairhaven Friday Night AA ......................................... 60.00Fairmont Big Book Group .......................................... 40.00Fellowship of the Spirit ............................................... 32.96Fireside Women’s Big Book Meeting ..................... 38.00For Today AA ................................................................190.00Foreword XIX .................................................................. 50.00Foxhall Chapter 7 ........................................................ 452.81France Avenue AA ........................................................ 50.00Freedom From Bondage ..........................................100.00Freedom Seekers .......................................................... 50.00Friday Night 12 x 12 By The Book ............................ 40.00Fridley Alano - Squad 2............................................... 10.00Fridley Alano Sq 29 ...................................................... 30.00Fridley Alano Squad 32 Viet. Vets ........................... 25.00Fridley Alano, Squad 19 .............................................. 20.00Fridley Alano, Squad 3 ................................................ 30.00Fridley Alano, Squad 31 The God Squad .............. 10.00Fridley Alano, Squad 33* ..........................................100.00Fridley Alano, Squad 49 .............................................. 20.00Fridley Alano, Squad 7 ................................................ 25.00

Gay, Lesbian, and Proud AA ....................................100.00Gratitude in Action .......................................................31.67Grovers A.A. .....................................................................10.72Happy Destiny ..............................................................181.51Happy Hour 12 & 12 ..................................................... 49.00Happy Hour Men’s AA .................................................37.00Happy Hour Squad AA Meeting ............................. 85.00Happy Joyous and Free Group - Shakopee ..........37.25Happy, Joyous and Free ............................................. 23.78Hastings A.A. ...................................................................15.00Hayfield A.A. ................................................................... 50.00Highland AA Group ..................................................... 80.00Hillside Friday Night .................................................... 20.00Hole in the Doughnut Group ....................................27.38Hopkins Monday Friends Group ............................. 40.00Hopkins Sunday Night Group .................................. 10.00Howard Lake - Waverly AA ........................................ 25.00Hugo A.A. ........................................................................ 20.00It Might Have Been Worse ......................................... 40.59Keep Coming Back AA ..............................................100.00Kozy’s Noon Men’s AA ..............................................100.00Lakeville AA Big Book Meeting ............................... 58.00Lester Prairie A.A. ......................................................... 25.00Lions & Lambs AA ......................................................... 20.00Live & Let Live AA ......................................................... 30.00Live & Let Live AA St. Paul ......................................... 18.25Living Sober - Burnsville ..........................................100.63Look to this Day Group ................................................12.50Mainstreeters AA ........................................................184.50Maplewood Group .....................................................168.37Mark Sognesand ..............................................................5.00Medina A.A. Group ....................................................100.00Men’s Problem-Solution Group ............................... 50.00Mendota 1030 AA Group ........................................... 20.00Midway Club .................................................................. 80.00Minnehaha AA Family Group ................................... 20.00Minnetonka Big Book Study Group ..................... 123.32Minnetonka Seniors AA Group ................................ 20.00Monday - Wednesday AA - Bricelyn ....................... 50.00Monday Morning Women’s Group .........................13.20Monday Night Apple Valley Big Book ...................... 9.92Monday Night Temple Meeting ...............................67.36Monday Nite AA ............................................................ 25.00Monday Non-Smoking AA Group .......................... 10.00Monticello Alano, Squad 7 ........................................ 25.00Morristown AA Big Book Study Group ................. 50.00New Hope Alano Squad 10 ....................................... 75.00New Hope Alano Squad 30 ....................................... 20.00New Hope Alano, Squad 5 ........................................ 20.00New Prague Thursday Night Group ....................... 44.65Nicollet Chapter AA ...................................................100.00No Bull Big Book Squad 164 ..................................... 20.00Normandale Group ...................................................... 20.00North Hamline AA ........................................................ 25.00North Suburban Alano, Squad 7 ........................... 150.00Northwestern Alano Sq. 18 ....................................... 70.00Norwood Young America AA ................................... 50.00Nowthen AA ................................................................... 10.00Oasis Group .................................................................... 53.33Open Door AA ............................................................... 35.00Our Friends’ Place, Squad 18 .................................... 45.00Our Friends’ Place, Squad 9....................................... 25.00Outright Mental Defectives .................................... 253.02P & S AA Meeting .......................................................... 40.00Peace Group ......................................................................0.00Phoenix Group ...............................................................33.70Pine Island A.A. .............................................................. 25.00Pioneer AA Group ...................................................... 150.00Plymouth II Wednesday Womens........................... 10.00Pocketing Our Pride - St Paul .....................................17.10Polaris AA ........................................................................ 10.00Practical Experience .....................................................15.80Primary Purpose A.A. .................................................. 40.00Primary Purpose Group - Burnsville ....................... 80.00Promises Group at Knox............................................. 10.00Prospect Park AA Group ............................................ 29.25Providence Group ........................................................ 60.00Richfield-Bloomington Alano Squad 2D .............. 25.00Richfield-Bloomington Alano, Squad 4E* ............ 10.00Richfield-Bloomington Alano, Squad 5C* ........... 25.00Ridge Runners II ............................................................ 50.00River City Roundup Group ........................................ 30.00River Rats AA .................................................................. 10.00Rivertown Big Book Group-Stillwater ................... 25.00Robbinsdale Alano, Sq. K ........................................... 50.00Rockford Riverview AA ................................................29.10Rosemount A.A. Group .............................................. 60.00

Roseville AA .................................................................... 20.00Rule 62 Cavalier ..............................................................84.15S W Women’s AA........................................................... 30.00Safe Haven for Women AA ........................................ 25.00Saturday Breakfast Club AA ...................................... 24.06Saturday Morning Serenity Group ......................... 55.00Saturday Night Live AA .............................................. 43.00Saturday Night Speaker Meeting, MPLS. .............. 15.10Seeing Is Believing ....................................................... 25.00Serenity Seekers...............................................................5.50Serenity Seekers AA Group ....................................... 56.00Serenus Group ............................................................... 75.00Sherburn AA Group ..................................................... 30.00Sister in Sobriety ........................................................... 20.00Sisters of Serenity .......................................................100.00Sobriety Society ...........................................................112.67Solution Seekers ............................................................13.92Squad 62-Bethany Lutheran Church ..................... 50.00St. Charles A.A..............................................................200.00St. Croix Alano Society-TuesdayTopic .....................15.00St. Hubert’s AA .............................................................. 50.00St. John the Baptist AA ............................................... 75.00St. Louis Park Sunday Night AA Group ...............202.53St. Lucas AA Group....................................................... 20.00St. Luke’s Monday Nite Group ...................................15.00St. Luke’s Saturday Morning Men’s Group .........200.00St. Therese Thursday Night AA .................................15.00Step Action Group - Hutchinson ............................. 50.00Step Sisters .......................................................................15.00Step Study ....................................................................... 40.00Steps to Serenity ........................................................... 66.00Steps to Serenity Group ............................................. 35.00Stepsisters of Northfield AA ..................................... 25.00Stillwater Morning Group ........................................180.00Suburban North Alano Society, Squad 86* ......... 25.00Summit Hill AA Group ................................................ 95.30Sunday Night Happy Hour ........................................ 35.00Sunday Night Step and Tradition Meeting ........... 39.18T.G.I.F. Macalester ..........................................................19.06Temple AA - Wednesday 615 PM ............................ 40.00TGIF Women’s AA ..........................................................26.01The Firing Line ............................................................. 101.00The Grind A.A. ............................................................... 40.92The Island Lake AA Group ..........................................12.50This Simple Program ....................................................19.70Three Legacies - New Ulm ......................................... 25.00Three Legacies Meeting ..............................................71.90Thursday Morning AA - Stafford Center .................. 6.16Thursday Night Big Book - Northfield ................... 30.00Thursday Night Grace Group ....................................13.85Thursday Night Speaker Meeting ........................... 53.88Thursday Night Women’s Group............................. 60.00Thursday Nite Big Book Study - Monticello......... 60.00Tonka Alano Friday Night Group............................. 10.00Tradition Five Group ..................................................344.41Tradition One A.A. .........................................................51.00Tradition Three - Plymouth .....................................100.00Tradition Three - Rochester......................................115.90Tradition Three - Waconia .......................................100.00Tuesday Night Grace A.A. .......................................... 45.00U.R.S. Tuesday Nite AA ................................................ 40.00Unity on Division .......................................................... 35.00Uptown Group.............................................................240.00Valley Creek Thursday Night .................................... 40.00Valley Step AA ................................................................ 35.00Waconia A.A. Group .................................................. 125.00Waseca Monday Night Group .................................. 60.00Waseca Tuesday Night A.A. ...................................... 35.00Wayzata Step Sisters .................................................... 65.00Wayzata Sunday Night Step Group........................ 30.00Wayzata Women’s Group .......................................... 10.00Wednesday Knight Avenue AA Group .................. 50.00Wednesday Morning Group ........................................5.00Wednesday Morning Women’s Serenity Group .39.90Wednesday Night Big Book of Mpls. ..................... 20.00Weekend Jumpstart II ................................................. 30.00West Moore Lake AA ................................................... 10.00White Bear AA ................................................................ 20.00White Bear Lake Wednesday Morning Group .... 40.00Winona 12 & 12 Mon. & Thurs. ................................. 25.00Winona Big Book .............................................................1.00Winona Wed. Nite Step .............................................. 25.00Women’s Daily Reflections - Apple Valley ........... 20.00Worthy Women Big Book Study Group ................ 39.00

TOTAL .............................................................. 14,294.76

Southern Minnesota Area Assembly Group Contributions 2011


In Language of the Heart, it states:

“ Now that we are sober, and by the grace of God have become responsible citizens of the world,

why shouldn’t we now about-face and become

‘thankful givers’! Yes, it is high time we did!”

Page 86: Reprinted with permission from The A.A. Grapevine Inc.

Group Contributions January 1, 2011 through December 1, 20117-Hi AA Group - 9AM Sat .......................................1,083.61A Baffled Lot ................................................................... 60.00A New Freedom .......................................................... 172.00Amazing Grace ............................................................434.25Anoka Today - Squad 26 ............................................ 66.00Back to Basics ...............................................................184.05Baffled Lot-Afton .......................................................... 66.00Basic Twelve Group .......................................................59.00Blaine Alano - Squad 26 ........................................... 193.00Bloomington Alano - Into Action...........................431.10Bloomington Alano - Squad 66 ............................... 99.00Bloomington Groups Squad 57 ............................. 189.00Boiler Room Group ...................................................... 82.57Bryn Mawr Group ....................................................... 103.50Came to Believe 7 PM Sun ...................................... 130.00Came to Believe Group.............................................102.00Cavalier Club - 530 PM - Hand of AA ..................... 117.58Cavalier Club - Rule 62 ............................................ 1,179.18Cavalier Club - Thurs Men’s Group .......................205.99Center Group ..................................................................71.25Chaska - River City Roundup .................................... 55.34Children of Chaos ......................................................... 85.48Chunks and Measures ..................................................91.60Circle-Lex AA .................................................................. 20.00Colonial Way AA* ........................................................248.06Common Solution ...................................................... 519.86Como Park Big Book Study ....................................... 49.44Coon Rapids Alano - Squad 10................................. 52.80Crushed Grapes ........................................................... 143.63Dakota Alano Wed Worthwhile

Women’s Group .........................................................187.66Daniel L Simonson ....................................................... 40.92Design For Living .......................................................... 50.64Design For Living - Big Book* ...................................24.51Desire Speaker Meeting ..............................................70.51Dynamic Women’s Group ....................................... 250.95Fairmont Big Book Study Group ..............................95.72Farmington AA - Thursday Night ..............................87.13Farmingtpm Monday Night ....................................305.83Foglifters ........................................................................ 151.84Fourth Dimension Group ...........................................91.98Foxhall Chapter 7 ........................................................ 657.38Friday Night Hope Group ........................................ 422.73Fridley Alano - Squad 33 ............................................ 25.00Fridley Alano - Squad 49 ..........................................253.82Garage Dogs Mens Group .......................................285.00Grace - Thursday Night ............................................. 249.00Grace UpTown - Tuesday Night ............................. 146.99Gratitude Group ..........................................................140.00Happy Destiny Group ...............................................285.00Happy Joyous & Free Group NE ..............................57.06Happy, Joyous and Free ............................................ 161.16Hastings AA Group .......................................................10.83Hillside AA - Friday Night ............................................72.76Hole In The Doughnut .................................................20.47Hope Group .................................................................... 82.81Hopkins Monday Friends ........................................... 70.00How II .................................................................................74.37Keep It Simple 12 X 12 ..................................................12.00Keep It Simple AA Group ........................................... 23.00

Knollwood Principles in Action ............................... 20.00Laker’s AA - Friday 6.30 .............................................100.00Laker’s AA - Monday 6.30 ...........................................77.92Lakeville Big Book .......................................................674.12Lester Prairie AA ............................................................ 75.00Living Sober AA Group - Tues 7 PM ......................711.45Lynnhurst AA ............................................................... 110.00Mainstreeters Groups ............................................2,482.41Mendota AA 9 & 10.30am .........................................115.07Minneapolis Alano - Squad 27 ................................. 50.00Minneapolis Alano - Squad 41 ...............................220.00Minneapolis Alano - Squad 88 ...............................464.37Minnetonka Big Book Group .................................... 60.88Minnetonka Forward 19 12 & 12 ..........................196.26Minnetonka Senior Group* .....................................168.89Monday Morning Women’s

Apple Valley Group ..................................................101.90Monday Night AA - Loretto ...................................... 20.00New Brighton Sunday Morning Big Book .............16.62New Hope Alano - Squad 7 .....................................400.03Norwood Young America AA ................................... 50.00Oasis/Sol. Seekers/Happy, Joyous & Free ........... 399.03Open Door Thurs Night Group ..............................100.00Our Friends Place - Squad 18 .....................................21.67Outright Mental Defectives .................................... 670.32Paul A. Herrly ................................................................ 149.22Phoenix Group .............................................................377.43Pocket Our Pride ........................................................... 90.79Promises On Knox-9;00 AM Saturday .................. 175.00Richfield Bloomington AA Squad 2D Wed .........15.78Richfield Bloomington AA Squad 2E ...................127.64Richfield Bloomington AA Squad 5C .................203.00Richfield Bloomington AA Squad 1A ..................... 30.00Richfield Bloomington AA Squad 6G ..................342.46River City Round-up .....................................................79.69River Rats Group .........................................................164.00Rockford Riverview AA Group ....................................5.02Rosemount AA Group ................................................107.75Roseville Wednesday AA ........................................... 68.87Sahara 530 PM Sunday Group............................... 570.31Sahara 7AM Sunday ................................................... 139.50Sahara Club ................................................................1,943.99Sahara Club - Saturday 715 AM* ............................256.00Sahara Club - Sunday 8.30 AM* ..............................427.00Sahara Club - Sunday 10 AM.................................270.86Saturday Breakfast Club A.A.* ................................ 279.81Saturday Night Live AA* ........................................... 355.00Saturday Night Speaker Meeting ............................ 32.49Savage Unity AA ......................................................... 279.85Sinking Ship AA ............................................................. 90.56Sisters of Serenity ......................................................... 65.00Sobriety on Saturday .................................................711.45Sobriety Society ..........................................................156.86Sobriety Society Friday 7;30 p.m. .......................... 321.25Squad 55 Men’s Into Action Meeting .................. 155.00St. George Thurs Nite Mens Group - Long L ......176.78St. Louis Park Sun Night Group .............................. 991.44Steps to Freedom ......................................................... 72.35Steps to Serenity .........................................................343.64StepSisters of Northfield ............................................. 49.16Summit Hill AA Group .............................................. 349.69Sunday Night Happy Hour ........................................ 73.00

Sunday Night Step and Tradition Meeting ...........71.70Sunlight of the Spirit AA .......................................... 461.95Temple Monday Night 615 .......................................391.18Temple Wednesday Night 6.15 ..............................300.00The Grind AA - St Paul ..................................................71.91The Way Out ................................................................... 90.00Third Edition AA Group .............................................170.95Thomas C Chester ...................................................... 175.32Three Legacies Meeting* .........................................166.55Thunder Bird AA ..................................................... 1,908.00Thursday Night Speaker Meeting .........................403.30Tommy Kuusisto ............................................................ 72.00Tradiition Five Group ................................................. 126.35Tradition Three - Plymouth* ...................................288.00Tradition Three - Waconia ......................................... 65.00Tuesday Night Grace AA Meeting ........................202.22Uptown Group................................................................22.18Waconia AA Group ........................................................99.75Wed Night Mpls Big Book Group ............................ 80.00Wednesday AM Women’s Serenity Group ........360.00Wednesday Knight Ave AA Group ..........................91.41West Hills AA Group .....................................................45.98Women’s Wed AA Serenity Group ....................... 125.00Women of Hope - Lakeville* ................................... 130.27Worthy Women Big Book Study ...............................91.00 TOTAL ..............................................................34,065.96

Correctional Facilities January 1, 2011 through December 1, 2011Anoka County Corrections ......................................985.00Anoka County Workhouse ......................................380.00Carver County Jail ...................................................1,750.00Dakota County......................................................... 1,094.20Hennepin County - DWI Court ............................ 2,118.00Hennepin County Adult Detention Center ... 1,560.00Hennepin County Workhouse ............................2,190.00Le Suer County Jail .....................................................870.50MCF - Faribault ........................................................... 597.25MCF - Lino Lake ....................................................... 1,860.00MCF - Lino Lakes II ...................................................1,262.50MCF - Moose Lake - Transition Fair .......................532.50MCF - Red Wing ...........................................................652.50MCF - Rush City - Transition Fair ............................652.50MCF - Shakopee .......................................................5,514.45MCF - St Cloud - Transition Fair .............................. 516.00MCF - Stillwater Prison .......................................... 1,222.80MSOP - St. Peter ..........................................................766.50Pipestone County Jail ............................................... 816.75Ramsey County ....................................................... 1,408.05Ramsey County Correctional Facility #2 ......... 2,900.00Renville County ........................................................3,871.50Scott County Jail .........................................................485.00Washington County ............................................... 2,590.90 TOTAL ..............................................................36,596.90

Cash Balance in Checking Account .... 6,066.81

Year to Date Comparison December 1, 2011 2010 2011Group contributions 27,348.12 34,065.96Literature distributed 33,971.75 36,596.90

Pink Can Plan 2011


out by early December, with all revisions / updates obtainable on the District 1 website under the Meeting Locator header.

Literature Chair – Dick K. This man is so good at what he does that he may not be allowed to rotate out at the end of his rotation. Dick gets our literature needs in a costly and timely manner, plus will deliver them too! (Perhaps Area will need someone like Dick if we ever let him rotate out.)

Public information Chair – OPEN – Opportunity to serve, contact DCM.

Remote Communities – Melissa G. How much can one person do? Melissa not only serves the district as Chair, but works and attends school / classes, is always willing to take on more when there is a need for such within the district.

Structure Chair – Mary B. Mary is still smiling at the thought that the recent District 1 Workshop, “12 Traditions X 12 Speakers” was suc-cessful and is over. Mary, with the help of her workshop committee presented a very informative, inspiring and enjoyable workshop on October 8th in Kasson, MN. (See Mary, nothing to it!)

Treatment Chair – David M. There is only one word, well maybe three, that best describes David, GO, GO, GO. David is one of those Chairs that when he gives his report, it inspires you to get up and get something done. He has a network of people that assist him and get the good works and words of A.A. into the several treatment and detox units throughout the District. Website Chair – Don R. is always tweaking, adding, altering and exploring better ways that the District website can be utilize to help the district and those that still suffer be better informed of the resources available to them at the group, district and area level.

A great group of people, doing great service work and greatly appre-ciated by those of us in District 1 that see and hear of their service daily. Thanks to all of those folks in District 1 who serve, have served and are about to serve as GSRs, Chairs and Officers.

As District 1 looks to 2012 we see a bright future of hope, service and continued growth through fellowship. 2012 will have its challenges and rewards, it is hoped that a few task can be complete, such as a District inventory, present three workshops, (spring, summer, and fall) and always keep our groups informed, inspired and involved. Each GSR and Chair has been encouraged to seek others to serve, men-toring those that do, so as rotation in 2013 will transition smoothly, least the good works that have continued to be carried on in District 1 never falter.

From those of us in District 1 to all of you, we wish you the Happiest of Holidays and look forward to Recovery, Unity and Service with you and for you in 2012.

In Service, Bill B. District 1 D.C.M.

Districts 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6No reports.

District 7The 2012 District 7 budget has been approved and our committees are currently making their 2012 plans.

Remote Communities Chair: Jason A. recently purchased a number of foreign language Big Books for ESL members of his home group Minnetonka Big Book and other members of the AA community. He is also working with his Alternate Chair to carry the message into Nursing Homes and Assisted Living Facilities and do Literature drops.

Grapevine Chair Mike M.: working with groups in the district to educate group Grapevine reps how to represent the Grapevine in meetings. He is also gathering used Grapevines and redistributing them in the community.

Public Information Committee: Omar M., Eric B. and their committee have Public Service Announcements (PSAs) running in 15,000 homes via Minnetonka Lakes Cable Access Network. They are planning for 2012 to expand PSAs, also working on a “Sponsor your Hotel/Motel” program.

District 1Ho-Ho-Ho from District 1! Tis’ the season … Kind of hard to believe that 2011 is almost over. This past year in service has gone so fast. It seems that so much has taken place and been accomplished here in District 1 and it has, thanks to the commitment, effort and dedication of those who serve in the district. Thankfully here in District 1 it’s a non-rotation year, so we will have some stability going into 2012 with almost all District Committee Chairs filled and active.

Although, currently we do have opportunities for service in three open positions in the District Committee Chairs. Those positions are: Answering Service Chair, Archives Chair and Public Information Chair. If you are interested in a service opportunity in District 1, please check our website at: [email protected] or contact the DCM at: [email protected].

District meetings are held on the third Wednesday of each month at various locations, with the November 16th meeting being hosted by the Pioneer Club of Rochester. There were 16 active GSR’s at that meeting reporting and exchanging of information from those groups they represent. On average District meetings have 12 to 14 GSR’s in attendance regularly. A very solid, core group of individuals, who always seem to have something to report on from their groups or have good questions as to what and why, keeping District accountable. Our December District Meeting will be held on the 21st at 6:30 pm, being hosted by the Courage Group of Rochester. Again, please check the District website for locations and times of upcoming 2012 monthly District 1 Meetings.

Finances in District 1 have remained steady, with contributions actu-ally increasing over the last six months, due to a number of reasons, primarily Outreach and our GSRs getting the word out to the groups on the how’s and whys of contributions made to District, Area, GSO and the Pink Can Fund. A revision of the District Financial policy is in the works, as it was last updated in 2002, with some wording, cost adjustments and a reimbursement form needing to be addressed.

District Committee Chairs have been active and busy, with about half of them new to service at the District level, this being their first full year of rotation. How motivated and eager some of these folks are astounds me at times, their reports on activities and upcoming endeavors makes me want to “step it up” a bit, just to stay abreast with them. “If you want what we have….”

Some of the works these Chairs have carried out over the past year include; Answering Service Chair – OPEN – Opportunity to serve, contact DCM.

Archives Chair – OPEN – Opportunity to serve, contact DCM.

CPC Chair - Bridget H. Just completed an inventory of CPC material and literature on hand, implementing and coordinating group partici-pation in purchasing and placing literature display racks in various professional locations where there is a need. Visiting district groups and the professional community, getting the word out as to what A.A. is and isn’t. Bridget also has been filling in for the secretary and get-ting monthly meeting minutes out. Very much appreciated.

Corrections Chair – Frank S. Remains busy with coordinating service opportunities at three county jails, two drug courts, one state cor-rectional facility and the State / Federal facility in Rochester. Contact Frank through the District website if you have the desire to serve “inside the walls” at any of these facilities, as there is always a need for such.

Finance Chair – Beth W. Continues to do an excellent job of keeping our District monies in order, the bills paid and reimbursements made. Beth brings prior financial knowledge to the District, putting us at ease as to how our funds are kept and instilling a level of trust that is so needed in that position.

Grapevine Chair – Mike C. Always eager to “push” the Grapevine, taking advantage of any opportunity to get the word out about A.A.s “meeting in print” and recommending subscriptions and how that supports the Grapevine.

Group Records Chair – Larry R. Often seen with a group meeting form in hand, has been busy with a revision / updating of the District 1 Meeting Directory. That revised directory will be available for hand

District Reports


Treatment Committee: Shelly E., Area Treatment Chair, came to District 7 to do her talk in November and that was very informative and appreciated!!! Ben M. and his committee are conducting AAIs in local treatment centers and working with Literature committee to drop literature. Ben has recently doubled his role as a “Workshop Coordinator” and organized the AAI workshop on November 12. Nice job Ben and thanks for your great work!!!! BTW, Ben is also working to organize the District 7 holiday party. He’s kindofaplanner.

Literature Committee: Brett J., our new Literature Chair, is doing a great job getting literature organized in the district! He is also inves-tigating different avenues for the delivery of literature and means by which we place the literature. More to come! Everyone will be inter-ested in the outcome of the research he is doing!

Newsletter Committee: Lisa S. has appointed an Alternate: Stephanie M. and they are consistently putting out the best Newsletter in the world! ☺ District 7 has enjoyed a consistent Newsletter each and every month for years. We are very fortunate to have our Newsletter committee.

Corrections Committee: Blair and his committee are as busy as ever carrying the message to alcoholics who still suffer in correction facilities even though we don’t have any in District 7. This requires that they think out of the box a little. They also think outside of our geographical area a bit which is fine as well. Blair has brought some service opportunities to the District meetings for the downtown jail and is always a positive reminder of the Corrections Contact Program offering so that our members can write to inmates or be assigners.

We average about 10 active GSRs in attendance at our District meet-ings who report that their groups are actively carrying the message into jails, detoxes and treatment centers. Our committees support their efforts by prudently using the groups’ contributions to effec-tively carry the message. Overall, District 7 is in good health with meaningful action in our committees, more than adequate money in our bank account and an excellent team of officers, committee chairs, alternates, committee members and participating GSRs. We have a few opportunities for service remaining in the following areas: CPC Chair, Alternate Literature Chair, as well as committee positions for all committees. Please contact me or anyone in District 7 for informa-tion on how you can get involved in service in District 7.

Respectfully yours in service Ryan H. District 7 D.C.M.

Districts 8, 9, 10, 11 and 12No reports.

District 13Greetings from District 13!! It’s hard to believe that the first year of the rotation is almost coming to an end!! This month will see the 6th District Workshop that we’ve put on this year. Service: The Heart of AA. We’ve had a really good time putting on the Workshops around the District and, I know for myself, I’ve learned a lot at each and every one. Our committees have seen some growth in members and are getting things done. It seems a long way off but we will be gearing up for our bi annual Professionals Breakfast next November. All the committees will be making a big effort on coordinating that and this year we are again hoping to co host it with a couple of other Districts.

Right now the groups are discussing our proposed budget and we will hopefully have an approved budget at this next District meeting. The move to the new location and new night has gone relatively smoothly for a group of folks that generally say they don’t like change! It seems to be working out very well.

It’s been a real honor and privilege being able to be of service and working along side so many wonderful and dedicated people. I’m very grateful. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to everyone!!

Peace, Ann A. District 13 D.C.M.

District 14Greetings from District 14! Over the past three months we have aver-aged 16 – 20 GSRs at our district meetings.

In August we staffed a Public Information Booth at the Wright County Fair. In September we fulfilled our Service obligation at the State Fair. In October we held our elections: DCM Matthew A., Alt. DCM Julie W., Treasurer Jim O. and Secretary Deb S.

Volunteer Chairs starting in January, 2012 are: Corrections Mike O. and Rosie K., PI Lynnette S., Webmaster Cheryl K., Literature Mike C., Grapevine Deb S., Treatment (OPEN), Medallions Jim O. and Archives (OPEN).

Congratulations to all and may our Higher Power be foremost in all our decisions and may we always put “principles before personali-ties.” (If anyone is interested in filling the open chairs or if you know of someone who would benefit from doing service work, please attend our District Meeting the first Monday of every month at the United Methodist Church in Buffalo at 7:30 p.m.)

At the time of this report we are meeting our obligations at the Wright County Correctional Facility and the Maple Lake Treatment Center.

In September we held a Grapevine Workshop. Our numbers were small, but we had a great time. We put on a skit, “The Sound of Boozing.” Thanks to Jeanne, Area 36 Grapevine Chair, for coming out to do her presentation.

Wishing you and yours a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

In love and service, Deb S. (per Alt. DCM permission)

District 15Attendance: Attendance at the district meetings continues to be sporadic, although our numbers were up in the winter and spring, summer attendance has fallen. The DCM and Alt DCM are putting together a “divide and conquer” plan to attract more representation from district meetings. Kurt and Kevin will take the list of contribut-ing meetings and split it up by geographic location. One will take the northwest, the other southeast.

Committee Reports: Our corrections chair has done a terrific job of gathering up a fresh set of recruits for this past summer and fall. This seems to be a popular service opportunity for folks in the district (and out of district) — bringing meetings to those who have fallen on hard times via the legal system and their actions not being aligned. As any county, the lion’s shares of the inmates are there due to drugs or alcohol. The Corrections Committee has been trying to get into the 2 prisons that are in our district, but there are miles of red tape to get through. Oak Park Heights (federal prison) was willing to discuss hav-ing meetings brought in, but the caveat was that the meetings would have be held behind glass. (The inmates on one side of the glass, the AAs on the other). The consensus was that would not be in the true spirit of Alcoholic Anonymous carrying the message. Our Corrections Committee continues to try different avenues.

The district archives volunteers have been printing and saving to disk meeting minutes, flyers and other district articles of interest, The goal is to catalogue the past 15 years of material.

The CPC chair reports that efforts in the medical profession effort are going well. They have been able to place information in the physi-cian’s hands for use, specifically a new medical clinic in Stillwater. The clergy effort also seems to have gotten some traction although quite a few churches have their own recovery program. There may be some opportunity in Woodbury at the new Eagle Brook Church.

Our intergroup liaison — Toni D. has been a great addition to the group providing information that comes to intergroup and present-ing them at the district meetings. There are several events happening outside of our district that intergroup has visibility into. It was also mentioned that the “night owl” program is always looking for vol-unteers to take phone calls from those in immediate need or to just answer questions.

District Reports

Continued next page


District 18District 18 will be moving its meeting location beginning January 2012. Our new location is 3 blocks away from the old location at the Plymouth Congregational Church. The new meeting address is: 1900 Nicollet Avenue, Minneapolis, MN 55403. District 18 will also be moving its meeting day from the second Wednesday of the month to the second Thursday of the month.

District 18 held its fall workshop on November 12th. We are very grateful to the speakers who presented — especially our main speaker, Bob H., who came in from Montana. We found our workshop fell on a day where 3 other Districts had their workshops. This topic was brought up at the D.C.M. break out session at the December Area Committee meeting. The D.C.M.s committed to coordinate their workshop dates to avoid contention in the future. Going forward, there will be a single point of contact to manage a calendar of all the Area workshops in 2012 and communicate this via email and at the D.C.M. sharing sessions. I will be maintaining this list so please send me your planned workshop dates at [email protected].

Our 2012 budget was approved and we are forecasting a leaner year next year. We have made budget cuts to bring next year’s spend in alignment with the anticipated group contribution amounts.

It was reported that District 18 utilizes approximately 10% of the space in the Area Archives. The District group conscience decided to contribute 10% of the cost of the monthly rent for the space. Carla N. the Area Archives chair visited the District and explained reasons why it was not necessary for the District to do so, and also spoke about the spiritual principles behind the “power of the purse”. The District voted to reverse its decision.

We look forward to 2012 and wish everyone a Happy New Year!

In Service,

Chris G. District 18 D.C.M.

District 19Greetings from District 19! Our District has been busy preparing a 2012 Budget for the Groups to review. We will discuss the feedback from the Groups, and finalize the Budget at our December meet-ing. The good news is, we have some money to do our 12 Step work with! We continue to fill our Committee Chairs and recently added a Public Information Chair. Thank you Clayton!

Also, our Outreach Committee continues to visit Groups, inform-ing the Groups of the District activities. Last, the GSRs have shared thoughts from their Groups for several ideas on 12 step work. Requests include participation at the Dakota County Fair, as well as hosting a District Workshop.

These, as well as others will be considered in 2012.

Yours in Service, Val L. District 19 D.C.M.

District 21Hello All, I guess it is that time for another submission to our Area Newsletter. So here is what is happening in District 21:

We have had our second and third installment of the District 21 Roadshow workshops. The second workshop entitled “Drug Addicts in AA” hosted by Three Points Group and Tonka Alano, in Mound, MN, went very well. We did our best to get a cross-section of addict and alcoholic speakers. The discussion was lively and respectful. One person did believe that we could have done a better job getting more strictly alcoholic speakers, though we can only guide the speak-ers not give their story for them. Everyone walked away feeling that even if we don’t agree on a subject in Alcoholics Anonymous, we can agree to disagree. The bonfire after the workshop was a great time to fellowship.

The third workshop entitled “Relapse Prevention” hosted by the Garage Dogs at the Hall also went very well. Since the turn-out was not as what we had hoped for, most of the 20 attendees were members of Garage Dogs or District 21, we spent the time sharing our stories

Treasurers Report: The district treasurer reported a balance of approx-imately $3,200 in the district checking account. This is a significant positive delta over the balance this time last year. Donations seem to be consistent with last year, maybe we have been a little more frugal.

Fall Workshop: Carrying the Message CPC: District 15 will be having a fall workshop in November. The theme of the workshop is “carrying the message to your professional”. The goal of the workshop is to give attendees a “toolkit” for approaching professionals (medical, clergy, law enforcement, etc.) with information about how to direct\suggest\refer individuals they might encounter that could benefit from what we have to give. There will be guest speakers\panel volunteers, one of them being our own Area Chair Missy W. Along with all the great information that will be given, there will be a chili lunch provided. We will have chili, sides and desserts. (As always with our work-shops, there will be a raffle for door prizes. The top billing going to a leather bound manuscript of the Big Book. The workshop is scheduled for Saturday, November 5th from 11:30 AM to 3:00 PM. It will be held in the fellowship hall of the Christ’s Lutheran Church, 11194 36th Street North, Lake Elmo MN.

Our next district 15 Meeting will be on October 24, 2011 at 7:00 PM, Christ Lutheran Church, Lake Elmo.

Yours In Service Kevin B. District 15 D.C.M.

District 16No report.

District 17Greetings from District 17. Back in November district 17 held elec-tions and the Alt. DCM, Secretary, and Treasurer positions were filled while the DCM position remained open. We will again hold elections for DCM at our December holiday party/potluck district meeting, and I hope that someone will step into that role. I have completed my two-year rotation, and it was great serving Alcoholics Anonymous, it is time for me to graduate college and find out where life and my career will take me. It is also the time for another to serve District 17 as DCM.

We have previously formed an ad hoc committee to find and open a discussion with a few handicapped accessible churches or meeting rooms in order to relocate our district meeting to a place better able to fill the needs of our members. We also have our district newsletter posted on our district website (www.aadistrict17mn.org), and are con-tinually looking at ways to improve both. We have members putting on “Round Robins,” where a few current or past trusted servants share on their position, and the rewards they have received from serving. There is an almost daily listing of holiday A.A. events in and around the district posted in our newsletter, so no one should succumb to the holiday pressures, as there is just so much to keep one busy. We have an active CPC committee getting out the good word. Thank you all.

We meet at 7:30 p.m., on the second Tuesday of each month, at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Plato. Everyone is welcome to join us.

Brad H. District 17 (Outgoing) D.C.M., serving McLeod, Sibley, and most of Carver counties.

To become more involved in your local district you can contact

your District Committee Member (DCM) using the information

found on page 2 of this newsletter. To attend your local District

Committee Meeting, you can either contact your DCM or you

can find out where and when they are held on page 3 of this

newsletter. Become involved in Alcoholics Anonymous to

deepen and strengthen your sobriety.

District Reports


of experience, strength and hope, looking at photos of Garage Dog’s group history, playing foosball, eating hotdogs and beans, and having a great time. The workshop was supposed to last 3 – 4 hours, we ended up fellowshipping for over 4 hours. Instead of presenting on relapse prevention, Garage Dogs allowed a perfect opportunity to live it.

As for the to-do list in District 21, we are currently working on sev-eral projects including: creating a flyer to send out to all of the groups in District 21 with the purpose to inform AA members in District 21 about what is AA service, descriptions of positions available to serve at the district level and the positions we have available at District 21. The theme is for AA members of District 21 to “Get Involved!” District 21 is also interested putting on an AAI breakfast or luncheon at a hospital. We are just discovering the schematics of how to accom-plish this opportunity to carry the message to professionals.

We are also looking to create a temporary contact program for indi-viduals being released from Mission Detox and a couple of halfway houses in our district. We need to first figure out which meetings are being brought into these facilities and then work with the recovery facilities to make our contact list available to the newly sober. What services that will provided such as receiving phone calls to talk or give directions, rides to meetings, or sponsorship opportunities have yet to be decided. More to follow.

Lastly, District 21 is getting its house in order. We are reworking our internal processes to become more efficient and organized so that we may continue to carry the message to the still suffering alcoholic. It is not a surprise that the fourth installment of the District 21 Roadshow workshop will be hosted by District 21 entitled “Group Inventory, Group Conscious” in Plymouth, MN. Date to be determined. We continue to do our group outreach. Contributions are up and we appreciate the opportunity to serve. I think that is it.

Yours in service, Patrick S. District 21 D.C.M.

District 22Greetings from District 22! By the time you all read this, the holi-days will have come and gone. But I still want to take this opportunity to say how grateful I am to all of the trusted servants of District 22 because of al the energy and passion they have for carrying the mes-sage to the still suffering alcoholic. I feel so blessed to be surrounded by such dedicated officers, committee chairs, GSRs, and all those who regularly attend the district and area service events. They all inspire me to “keep coming back”!

Currently, District 22 is gearing up for an exciting 2012. We are fortu-nate to receive regular generous contributions which allow us to keep carrying the message. We plan on conducting two service workshops sometime during the year. (Announcements to follow!) We will also co-sponsor a CPC breakfast with District 7 which will help profes-sionals in our community learn what AA is and isn’t. We will be reaching out to active and inactive groups to try to increase participa-tion at the district and area level. And we have a new literature chair who has begun to find ways to make more of our literature available in District 22.

As I write this, I am planning on attending the Recovery, Unity, and Service Conference as well as the Trusted Servant Leadership Training. I also hope to attend the West Central Regional Service Conference in Billings, MT. I always feel so grateful to be able to connect with AAs from around the region and from the General Service Office. I generally come away from all conferences with renewed energy and excitement sparked by seeing how much is being done to carry the message all around the world.

I believe we accomplished a great deal in 2011 but I know we will do even more in 2012. I am looking forward to collaborating with other DCMs to share ideas and resources in the coming year.

Thank you for letting me serve! Sooze H. District 22 D.C.M.

District 23Greetings to you all in Area 36 from District 23. Hope everyone is enjoying the Holidays and getting ready for another busy year. We

were fortunate to have our Area 36 Delegate Angie E. at our October district meeting. It was a very informative evening. Thanks again Angie. We are very busy working on our Symposium which will be held March 3rd in Mankato. We have really been getting great coop-eration from all three districts involved and it looks like another really great day. There will be flyers available at the area committee meeting in Mankato. So grab one and bring your sponsees with you.

We are also working hard to get more people involved in our district committees. The district meetings have been growing and its great to see. Our jail and treatment meetings are doing very well and we have been trying to do outreach to inactive districts. We have had some success with getting people from those districts to get involved with the temporary contact programs. Thanks to Mary M. for all her hard work with the corrections temporary contact program.

We are looking forward to the committee meeting in Mankato on the 3rd and also to RUSC and Trusted Leadership Training. Hope to see you all in Mankato on the 4th.

Yours in service Tom R. District 23 D.C.M.

District 24The District 24 trusted servants have been at their usual state of busy activity. In October our Public Information and Cooperation with Professional Community committees pooled together to staff a table at Scott County’s program “Project Community Connect.” This program offered booths for organizations that provide services for people in need. It was well received and a number of persons stopped to inquire.

Our Treatment chair is active with Hastings Detox, the three treat-ment centers in the district, etc. Meetings are brought in and literature as needed. Also in October, we had a workshop “Sponsorship and the Three Legacies” that, despite some glitches, went off very well. Our new corrections chair is busy coordinating meetings for inmates in the county jails for Scott County, Carver County and Le Sueur County. We also are blessed with a new Group Outreach chair and a relatively new Alternate DCM. Our Newsletter and Web chairs have continued with their usual expert performance. Our basic plan is to continue finding new opportunities to gain more interest in involvement with carrying the message of AA both within and outside our groups.

Yours in loving service, Marty T. District 24 D.C.M.

District 25Greetings from District 25! This will be my last report as DCM. I am so grateful for the experience of the last 2 years. I have learned a lot and believe I have grown so much as an AA member in many ways.

We had elections in October and we did not have any luck in filling the DCM or Alternate DCM positions. But the GSR’s went back to their groups and communicated to them the urgent need for a DCM. In November we had elections again and our treasurer gratefully stepped up to be the new DCM. We had a powerful discussion at this meeting about the importance of the GSR’s taking responsibility for our district. So we now have a new DCM, Treasurer and Secretary. We also have a new PI Chair,as the current one will be rotating out at the end of the year. Three more of our committee chairs will also be rotating out so we are looking for willing and excited AA members from our district to become new committee chairs. As I am sad to leave the district, I am very hopeful that the new officers and commit-tee chairs will do a great job for District 25 to continue to carry the AA message to the Richfield and Bloomington cities.

In love and service, Kelly T. District 25 D.C.M.

District 26No report.

District Reports


Editor’s Note: The minutes for this meeting were unavailable at the time of printing for this issue of The Pigeon. The unapproved notes

Meeting opened with the Serenity Prayer and Introductions at 1:00 PM

August 6, 2011 Area Committee meeting minutes were approved.

Officers’ Reports

Delegate — Angie E.

• Angie talked at the West Central Regional Forum (WCRF) on importance of group participation in service and spent time with board chairman Ward Ewing (non alcoholic trustee); she expressed concerns over a problem with a Trustee and his business dealings. Ward indicated this has since been resolved because we do not get involved in outside issues.

• Dennis B. was elected Nominee for Trustee for West Central Region at the last Assembly.

• Concerns have been expressed on protecting anonymity; possible affiliation when selling online literature; this is an ongoing project and she will be getting more information from Regional trustee on these concerns.

• Deadline for submission of items for the conference is January 15th.

• Literature sales $51,000 more than budgeted.

• Contributions are 96,000 less than budgeted.

Alternate Delegate — Terry L.

• Had surgery and was not available.

Chairperson — Lisa G.

• RUSC (Recovery Unity and Service Conference) — December 17th is cut off day for registration for RUSC at a $2.00 discount.

• 2012 Budget was passed at the August Assembly.

• 2012 Calendar is set and is on the Area website.

• Officers have been working on a weather procedure.

• State Fair registration has been mailed in to secure our location.

• Area Business Cards are available (these do not have names, only positions).

• She has some ideas for a chair for the Area Inventory but is open to other suggestions.

Alternate Chairperson — Doug C.

• Recovery Unity and Service Conference (RUSC) will be January 6, 7 and 8.

• As chair of this event he noted that the “Purpose of RUSC is to attract members to General Service, inform new GSRs (General Service Representatives), and develop strong future servants.”

• The Saturday evening speaker has changed from Pam R. (who has had to cancel for health reasons). The Saturday speaker will now be Clayton B. from Missouri who is the Trustee for the Southwest Central Region.

Secretary — Lisa B.

• Had a personal commitment; no report. Minutes by Phyllis S.

will be sent via email to all on the Area 36 email list. Hard copies will be available at the next Area Assembly.

Treasurer — Denise B.

• Denise provided Balance sheet Highlights for 2011 and provided an explanation of how we are following the Financial Policy.

• Area 36 purchased 3 new laptops for Secretary, Treasurer and Group Records Chair.

• We will have additional expense with purchasing software but should receive a good price because we are a non-profit.

• Group Contributions are under the projected budget. They are at about the same level as this time last year. We have been able to fulfill our commitments.

• If contributions stay steady she has no concerns about money being available “to carry the message”.

DCM (District Committee Member) Sharing Session

Report by Chris G. — DCM from District 18

• District 17 will be moving its meeting location in 2012.

• District 18 will be moving its meeting location starting January, 2012, to the Plymouth Congregational Church located at 1900 Nicollet Avenue Minneapolis, MN. The meeting day will move to the 2nd Thursday of the month: 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM.

• In the final quarter of the year, many Districts held workshops, approved budgets and are having holiday potlucks.

• Districts are active in the community — in addition to typical engagements with correctional facilities, professionals, etc.; Districts are “Sponsoring Hotels” to ensure there are meeting directories and AA information available to travelers.

• Districts are reaching out to groups to improve participation at the District level. Some districts have a very high need for more group participation as they do not have people willing/able to stand for officer positions.

• Other outreach efforts — Cooperation with the Professional Community (CPC) chair at a District is dropping off sponsor your professional packets for members to give to their doctors, lawyers, judges, psychiatrists they may be in contact with. Grapevine Chair at a District is meeting with Groups to raise Grapevine awareness and give the AA Grapevine representatives at Groups the tools they need.

• A District encountered a problem at a courthouse in putting out an AA literature rack — was told they can’t put it out because it is not County information. The DCM will reach out to the Corrections chair for ideas on resolving.

• Only the 16 slot racks are available from GSO and Intergroup. Is there a way to get 4 or 8 slot racks? DCMs will take this back to their Districts to discuss.

• Discussed improving workshop participation: suggested getting input from Groups on topics they are interested in; get information on workshops out there early and often, have fliers distributed sev-eral months (3 – 4 months) before the date of the event, communicate with the service entities such as Intergroup, the Area, and District websites.

• To avoid having District Workshops on the same day the DCMs dis-cussed using electronic means to track (websites, online calendars). Chris G. will schedule a calendar to coordinate workshops. DCMs can use this schedule to help plan workshop dates and avoid plan-ning a workshop on top of another workshop.

• DCMs volunteered Patrick S. from District 21 to chair the next DCM breakout session.

Unapproved Minutes Area 36 Assembly, October 22, 2011 in Austin

Unapproved Minutes Area 36 Committee Meeting, December 3, 2011 in North Mankato


Standing Committee Reports

Archives — Carla N.

• Discussed moving the repository — see new business.

• District 13 has had 3 workshops (which have included a broad History of Alcoholics Anonymous). A 4th workshop will be held December 13th at the Fridley Alano. They are busy and are working on collecting all past newsletters of District 13.

• District 24 is looking at getting Archives started up again. Secretary is also the Group Records Chair and keeper of the information.

• Archives displays were at District 18 (who hosted a hospitality suite at MNYPAA (Minnesota Young People in AA). Archives will dis-play at the RUSC, Alcoholics Anonymous Symposium (hosted by Districts 9, 12 and 23) and are checking on having a display at the Trusted Service Leadership Training.

• Area 35 and Area 36 displayed at Founders Day. We are thankful to the Founders Day Board for providing a room for the Display person. Carla spoke at one of the District 13 workshops and will be a pre-senter on “Concepts the way forward” at the RUSC.

Cooperation with the Professional Community (CPC) — Missy W.

• James from District 22 is trying to work with the Park Nicollet Doctor in charge of the residency program and also is distributing literature to law enforcement people.

• Greg from District 21 is a new chair and was thankful to the com-mittee as he is looking for ideas; he is thinking of having a CPC breakfast.

• Rich from District 17 is going to groups to let them know what they can do to let professionals they meet learn about Alcoholics Anonymous; he hopes to have a CPC Breakfast in September.

• Committee is trying to put a list of presenters together for events they participate in.

• Agreed that it is best to send professionals to Speaker meetings.

• Committee would like to get a banner stand for under $300.00 for conferences as the one they have is not up to standard with other displays and is geared to Alcoholics Anonymous members not professionals.

• Committee is looking for people to present to professionals at the Minnesota Social Service Conference being held March 13th through 16th where they will have speakers, AAI talk and a per-son who got sober through a health professionals; also an AA history talk on how professionals helped us grow and develop; they will wrap it up with a talk on common misconceptions about Alcoholics Anonymous. They will staff the booth with the Treatment Committee.

• Committee expressed concern about the high cost of parking down-town; service needs to be available to all.

• Physicians Conference — ($900.00) but if we have presenters we will get a price break and should be able to afford it.

Corrections — Larry F.

• 14 people, 8 Districts

• People are busy in Districts taking meetings into Correctional facili-ties; some outside of their District.

• Many also attended Transitional fairs; at Lino Lakes Fair he learned that the opportunity he had given to District 18 to bring a meeting to 180 degree halfway house now has an In house Big Book meeting every Monday.

• The Manager of Paroles introduced him to the Case worker man-ager indicated Case workers do not appear to know much about Alcoholism. He is working to have an AAI (Alcoholics Anonymous Information) presentation for case workers.

• Attended Bridging the Gap — Lack of funds is affecting Corrections programs so we should have more opportunities with wet drunks.

• Made a second request for people to take a meeting to RS Eden West in St. Paul (this is a re-entry program on W. 7th Street) and also a RS Eden Halfway House on Ashland Avenue in St. Paul.

• Second Request — at the Dakota County Resource Fair he was told of a jail meeting that has many alcoholics showing up for a Narcotics Anonymous meeting and would like to get an AA meeting started on Saturday afternoons — contact him if you can help.

Corrections Contact Program Coordinator — Mary M.

• 2 different service opportunities:

1. A contact writes back and forth to an offender with the idea that when they are released you will help them get to an Alcoholics Anonymous meeting in 24 to 48 hrs. You are not their sponsor starting out but could be. You must be off paper for 2 years and have 1 year of sobriety. Can not do this if you are taking a meeting to a State Facility.

2. Be an assigner. You will not have contact with offenders but will check the data base to match offenders with people willing to write and help an offender get to an AA meeting when they are released. They match the offender with AA member who signed up to be an AA contact.

• For people imprisoned over 12 months they ideally contact GSO (General Service Office) to have someone write to them. GSO has a program for offenders incarcerated for more than 12 months. Mary M. and Larry F. will contact GSO as concern was expressed in their committee that these people might feel we are rejecting them and they may be reluctant to contact GSO. Questioned how much we should do and how to best help. They will ask GSO if we can send our contact form if people will be imprisoned for more than 12 months.

Finance — Doug C.

• Reviewed the Area 36 Finances with Denise (Treasurer)

• Reviewed and approved the Finance letter (this letter lets groups know the financial condition of Area 36).

• Rewrote proposal sent back from Assembly; discuss under new business.

• Received request to review all of Area 36 policy and practices regarding reimbursements to Trusted Servants: They made a little progress today; sense is that people would like to have clarification but there are spiritual principles involved and would like to respect the right of Committee chairs on how to use their funds.

Grapevine — Jeanie H.

• They are reaching out to people in groups and to facilities, libraries, treatment centers, hospitals.

• If order multiple copies to go to the same address you get a signifi-cant discount.

• Grapevine has 2 new books (STEP by Step and Emotional Sobriety II).

• E Digital books are coming — first one is Language of the Heart. You will need to go to A.A. Grapevine store to purchase.

• Grapevine gift subscriptions — ordered at a savings during the Holidays.

• From November 28 to December 12th — type in “grape” on coupon and will get free shipping.

• Grapevine is ahead of budget for this year.

• Attended WCRF and her alternate covered Southern Minnesota Roundup.

• Displayed at the District 14 Workshop — did a play to “The Sound of Music” which was great, and displayed at Founders Day.


Continued next page


Group Records — Carla W.

• Attended WCRF (West Central Regional Forum)

• District 1, 13, and 18 were represented today and are well on their way to updating all meetings in their Districts.

• They discussed the process of updating The Pigeon mailing list so Pigeons are not returned due to inaccurate addresses. In lieu of this she has information for Districts 2, 4, 8, 9, 14, 21, 25 and 26; these are returned mailings from these Districts.

• They are working on an Area Directory which should be done every 2 years. They have a draft that Denny B. did for them and have dis-cussed having it published electronically.

• Is excited about her new computer and will transition to it once the office software is installed. She can only have “Certification for the Area” and FNV (GSO Data Base) on one computer.

• If your District is rotating she will need outgoing and incoming District Committee officers and chairs information. If she does not get this information, it will not be updated in the FNV database or The Pigeon.

• In February Committee will look at District Chair Guidelines.

• Group records can provide a mailing list for all contacts within your District.

Literature — Joanie M.

• Had good discussion on Inventory. They currently have ($1372.49) not including pamphlets and so will be well supplied for RUSC and TSLT (Trusted Leadership Training).

• Discussed buying Literature from General Service Office vs. Intergroup.

• Discussed proposal on changes from 3rd edition to 4th edition in stories. Will be brought back in February.

• Have opportunity to get new service manuals for shipping only; she has some on hand.

Newsletter — Jack J.

• Not present because of illness.

Public Information (PI) — Christy R. reporting

• Mary has been meeting with Roger at Area 35 chair on a document to be placed at Minnesota rest stops — would include meeting locator website, Intergroups etc.

• Participated in “Project Parent Connect in South Minneapolis put on by Head Start — Committee distributed pamphlets and made contacts with professionals.

• Area has there own PI booth — contact her or Mary if you would like to use it.

• Talked about group outreach and how get accurate information out there.

Remote Communities and Special Needs — Deb S.

• District 7 has purchased Big Books in braille, Russian, and Hungarian and has given these to the Edina and Eden Prairie Community Centers. It was surprising to the committee that the braille edition comes in 7 volumes and sells for the same price as a regular Big Book.

• One of the attendees raised the question: “Do you wait for someone to come to your group with Special Needs or do you address that Special Need before they come into your group.

• She attended the District meeting in Sherburne and shared on doing service work and on remote communities. Also was at the District 4 meeting and their 12th Step workshop.

• She participated in the District 14 Grapevine workshop and was part of a play called “Sound of Boozing”. If want reproduced they would do it for us.

Structure — Mark reported in Terry’s absence

• Redistricting has been finished and the map is done.

• Trusted Servant Guidelines have been approved.

• Improvement of Area Communication: Pamphlet produced by District 7 was passed around — contact them if you want a copy.

Old Business

1. Address problems for the group records information. Laurie was to contact Carla W.

2. Way to get to “group outreach materials” on the website is dif-ficult” — David made a request of the web chair and Michael will follow up with the web committee.

3. Suggestion for keeping Trusted Servant Guidelines updated. Process would be to have committee chairs in the second year of their rotation send updates to Structure before February Committee Meeting, Structure would review in May and bring forward to the August Area Committee meeting.

4. Subcommittee for Area Actions — Structure Committee is trying to get a better handle around this.

5. Voting policy — Structure Committee felt handout presented last year was sufficient.

6. Who will handle TSLT — Currently has been Alternate Delegate but this was not officially approved. Committee felt Area Alternate Delegate should do this and may bring forth a proposal at a latter date.

Treatment Facilities — Shelly E.

• Talked about temporary contact program. They need volunteers, particularly from outside the metro area.

• Sponsor Speed Dating — used by District 7 at New Connections Youth Treatment Center where patients will have an opportunity to talk to a bunch of Alcoholics Anonymous members willing and able to sponsor.

• Bridging the gap will be in Bloomington, MN — September 7th thru 9th.

• District 13 is using a blue can to pay for literature to take into Detox and treatment centers

• They will work with CPC at the Minnesota Social Service Conference.

• Presented at District 7.

Website — Michael S.

• Attended WCRF.

• He will make a tab for Group Outreach as requested.

• Did not feel it was Intergroup affiliation if we link to there website (S38 in Service Manual). He will move the link from Committee to Resources.

• If District site goes inactive advertisements are put their and it is difficult to get rid of the link.

• Need to get approval for Guidelines before making changes — he hopes to have a pamphlet on this in 2 weeks.

• Might need to change the way we have web chair and web master set up. Need consistency to update.

• Discussed putting Spanish-speaking meetings on the website.

Angie E.

• Anyone who completed the form for conference workshop sugges-tions for 2013 please forward to Area Delegate.

New Business

Finance Proposal• Finance committee recommended the following change to the Trusted Servant Guidelines: Proposal reads: Form a financial review committee. Submit records to the Financial Review Committee on



an annual basis. This committee should be comprised of 3 members of the Area 36 Finance Committee, appointed by the Finance Chair. The Committee will prepare a written report, including any minor-ity opinions, on an annual basis, to be presented to the spring Area Assembly. The term of the Committee shall be staggered with the Treasurers term.

Comments and Questions on Finance Proposal

1. Doug C. reported this proposal was sent back by the October Area Assembly. He felt it would only take one afternoon to do this review and could be done on the afternoon of a Committee meeting.

2. Should committee members be paid — no because the Treasurer does more work and is not paid. Auditor is currently paid $650.00 and he does not do audit — he only reviews finances and gives a report. We would be doing an audit.

3. Finance Chair will not be a member of the Committee. Committee members would serve 3 years. They usually have combination of 6 District Treasurers and Finance Chairs at the Committee meetings so should be able to have enough people to choose from.

4. They intend to continue having a CPA file our tax forms and 990 form and will comply with 503-C regulations and our By-laws.

5. Question was raised: Why a 3 year rotation?

6. Question asked: What is purpose of change?

7. Suggestion — Consider letting the Finance Chair make recommen-dations to the Area Chair and let the Area Chair have final approval. Others thought the Finance Chair is always accountable to the Area Chair.

8. Consider clarifying the qualifications for people doing the review and make sure they know what their role and responsibilities are.

9. Consider having 2 people from the Finance Committee and another person from somewhere else in AA. (This would provide a fresh set of eyes).

• This proposal is going back to the Finance Committee for more work.

Archives Proposal

• Archives Committee is asking for authorization to investigate mov-ing the repository to a better location; with monies to move and renovate space to not exceed $500.00, new rent not to increase by more than $50.00 per month. Area Chair to poll Area Committee at end of December 2011 for authorization.

• Comments and questions on above proposal:

1. Carla N. noted that the Area has had a repository since 1982. It is a storage unit with good heat and temperature control and is where we house our Archives materials such as copies of min-utes, financial records, old flyers and Area Archives Displays, etc. Generally it is in close proximity to the Area Archivist; currently it is 80 miles from the Archivist. We wish to have it more centrally located. We now have 450 sq. ft. and the new space would be 1200 square feet. Current lease is till March and is $450.00 a month.

2. Rent will probably go up at our current location when our lease expires.

3. Lease on new location will be $600.00 a month and would be 3 to 5 years and is negotiable.

4. Our new location would have 2 small rooms, 1 large room and a Community Room to hold meetings or a workshop. New facility is on ground level, wheel chair accessible and has a bathroom. It has 3 front windows which will need covering. The building is a com-mercial building 20 miles from the Archivist.

5. We are looking in the general area of Glencoe which is off of 212 by Young America.

6. If Districts need information they often do not have old informa-tion and need to constantly reinvent the wheel — this would help this process.

7. Concerns about insurance were expressed; insurance is based on the Archives Inventory and we will need to continue to purchase insurance.

8. If you go to the repository you feel you are in a clutters room. In the new location you would be able to see things and have displays not just boxes and file cabinets.

9. Concerns were expressed about bypassing procedures and policies to do this quickly.

10. Thought was also expressed that because we are dealing with real estate our 3 months process might not work.

11. Appreciation was expressed for Archives showing respect for the DCMs and Districts.

12. Lisa agreed to pole Area Committee at the end of December to reach a group conscience on the proposal.

• Archives proposal was Approved 23 to 0.

Area 35 Joint Meeting

Lisa G. — has been in touch with Area 35 regarding a Joint Meeting either July 14th or July 21st at 12:30 in St. Cloud or Elk River. Area Committee approved a meeting at 12:30 on July 21st in St. Cloud. This would not be in conflict with our Area Calendar.

Announcements

• March 3, 2011 — “The Gift of Sobriety” (Alcoholics Anonymous Symposium) by Districts 9, 12 and 23; Special guest will be Rich C. from Muscatine, IA.

• Saturday, December 31, 9 – 1:00 PM — Intergroup Holiday Open House

• New Years Eve — “ Pass It On Marathon”, Central Lutheran Church

• April 14, 2012, Intergroup Gratitude Night

• July 28, 2012, 2218 Block Party

Meeting closed at 4:30 PM with the Responsibility Statement.



“Rip”Harold Austin Ripley

(1907 – 1987)

The September 1946 Publication and Promotion of

2218’s Alcoholics Anonymous Magazine If Drinking Isn’t Fun Anymore

Special Issue of Hi and Dry Newsletter

The Short StoryThe group at 2218 decided to seek recipients from the “mailing list” of known A.A. Groups, subscriptions to their monthly newsletter Hi and Dry. A postcard was sent, unfortunately in their haste they identified that the recipients had an interest or connection with A.A.

There were, as might be expected, a couple of different responses: Orders for the ‘mag’ and disgust at both the breaking of anonym-ity and the lewdness of some of the advertised contents in the current issue.

While correspondence with “The Minneapolis Group” tended, by far, to consist of orders—there were a very significant number of critics, many of whom took it straight to Bill W. who was vacationing at Yosemite.

The Long StoryIncluded here is the text from Rip’s telegram to Bill W. and a follow-up letter to Bobbie Burger, A.A. (Alcoholic Foundation) secretary at the time.

Copy of Rip’s Answer to Burger (N. Y.)Miss Bobbie Burger,The Alcoholic Foundation,415 Lexington Avenue,New York, N. Y.

Dear Bobbie: The rumblings in the AA sky roll down from Minneapolis to ye olde Bourne.

As per Bill’s request in his wire to Pat Cronin yesterday, I telegraphed Bill as per attached copy.

The Magazine’s announcement was a bit on the sensational side, the subscription fire power was high velocity, and the open mailing could cause an attack of the vapours--but only in the ultra sensitive, I think.

As in most other affairs of this vertiginous world, misunderstanding and alarm is caused by lack of understanding and motivation and differing viewpoint.

I have no connection with the magazine whatsoever other than as contributor of a monthly column, but I am aware personally of the high motivation, the sincerity and the hard work and self-sacrificing generosity of those chiefly responsible for its apparently somewhat abortive birth.

It was my understanding that the magazine was to be purely regional in scope and character. It was naturally the editorial hope that its excellence might recommend it eventually---and sometime in the future--to a wider audience.

Not everyone, you know--Bobbie--considers the GRAPEVINE as the highest journalistic expression of AA.

A national mailing was made--as I understand it-for 2 reasons:

1/. So that from the first issue, the publication could become self-supporting on the basis of its circulation. A laudable ambition, I am sure you will agree. To undertake such a magazine as was envisaged by its founders on purely a regional subscription basis was TO FOREDOOM IT TO FINANCIAL FAILURE: for not even the Minneapolis Alano Society has the sort of money to undertake the class of magazine which was contemplated. ( I wish, Bobbie, You would pause here a moment and try to get that PICTURE.)

The eager, ardent men in back of the venture were faced with two alternatives. One was to operate on an extremely limited budget which in turn meant--MERELY ANOTHER AA “PAPER” OF LIMITED CONTENT WITH THE SAME DRAB DULLNESS AND BANALITY OF SO MANY AA PUBLICATIONS.

(2/.) The OTHER was to IMMEDIATELY OBTAIN WIDE CIRCULATION at 25 cents a copy, thus assuring the subscriber of a GENUINE MAGAZINE, edited with experience--imagination--originality--and designed to get and TO HOLD AA readers.

Those in charge--and they are experienced newspaper and publicity men--chose the latter alternative. There was only ONE MEANS of accomplishing the objective--a mailing to each AA group.

Because by far the greater majority of AAs in these parts have not the slightest objection to public identification WITH THAT WHICH GAVE THEM LIFE, they did not think for an instant OTHERS WOULD RESENT being addressed as AAs.

It is indeed difficult to understand the APOLOGETIC sensetivness of those who have been in AA long enough to Group secretaries--to grasp their reason for SUCH HIGH DUDGEON at the “BETRAYAL OF THEIR ANONYMITY.”

I heartily endorse the policy of honoring another’s anonymity even though one may not understand his wishes to remain anonymous. But as generally the case, the Minneapolis lads, anxious to make an early deadline, and afire with enthusiasm--and believing that all others were as openly AA as themselves--gave the matter of an open mailing no thought, THEY GOT THE MAIL OUT.

And I’ll make you a little bet, of the best dinner in New York, that 90% of the indignant squaws, OF OBJECTIONS AND RESENTMENTS, came from not more than five eastern groups. If I am correct--or even nearly so--surely the validity of such objections is open to question. For when did a minority establish policies for a majority?

From Our Archives


The table of contents was lurid, sensational. This is to be regretted. But there was no “I” stuff in it. And I have seen considerable publicity sensationally lurid with the added extremely distasteful “I” projected without dignity or modesty. So far as I am aware there was no censure from the Foundation.

Nevertheless a mistake was made--in my opinion--in such extravagant projection.

And perhaps the subscription pressure was a bit too heated--though no one was compelled to subscribe.

Though this may sound like a Minneapolis apologetic, it is intended only as an explanation as I see the affair. Indeed, it would be most arrogant of me to assume the role of apologist, even were I so

inclined, which, heaven forbid, I am not. O n the other hand, my relations with the Minneapolis Group are close and of long standing. The man chiefly responsible for the magazine’s virility came into AA in Eau Claire and it was my good luck to unofficially sponsor him. To me, he is one of the most remarkable recoveries on record.

He has been managing editor of several New York and other metropolitan papers, a top-drawer executive in big business--a man of

position and accomplishment. Unselfishly and at considerable personal sacrifice he undertook an active part in this venture.

In keeping with the very essence of AA, I think his mistakes should be understood in the light of charity--not that of tight-lipped criticism.

Please understand that quite literally I had nothing whatsoever to do with the policies of this magazine. But also understand, Bobbie, that while I perceive and readily admit the mistakes made, I do honestly think that any judgment which considers not motivation is something less than justice and something far removed from that true charity which seems to me, the core and kernel of AA.

And should any other sound but that of charity ever become dominant in the councils of AA?

I am sure my Minneapolis friends would be appalled--and even angry--if they thought I was bespeaking charitable understanding of what they undertook in zealous AA interests. But either charity is something to prate about in AA--something to relegate to the personal level where only financial considerations are involved, or it is the great, strong, central root which nourishes the flourishing tree of our concept.

If we cannot practice true charity within AA, ANY PRETENSE of doing so outside its membership is unholy HYPOCRISY and BITTER MOCKERY.

Sure... we can excitedly throw up our hands and bellow: “But what the hell has Charity to do with this situation?” Any such exclamation denotes complete ignorance of the very definition of charity. As for humility… either it is something with which to pharisaically belabor our brothers or A VIRTUE TO PRACTICE OURSELVES.

The practical--the practical practice ( and oh, how we like to get ‘practical’ on occasion ) if either virtue does not imply a surrender of judgment, common sense or experience. It--and They--merely mean, as I see it, that another’s ( be it individual’s or group’s ) actions are evaluated in the soft lights of charity and humility rather than in the harsh, hard glare of judgment.

In the midst of an extremely heavy schedule, I am moved to write at this length, Bobbie, in the hope that explanation of motive on the part of those who have worked so industriously and unselfishly may make their mistakes more understandable. Their motivation came from THE HEART. Their mistakes from the mind. But as I see it--AA is not A HEAD PROGRAM BUT A HEART PROGRAM.

So long as error is man’s fortuity where would we prefer error to be?

Faithfully,

(SIGNED) Rip

P.S. Will you kindly thank Charlotte for her very nice note to me?

( The End )

The LessonsAustin Ripley (Sober 1942) was well known among AAs, the co-founders of AA and the Alcoholic Foundation, and a highly respected member and friend of Pat C., he was a lay member of the Catholic Church.

When he became informed of this error of judgment, he offered the above intervention on behalf of the actions of the co-founder and members of the Minneapolis Group (Alano Society of Minneapolis) without their knowledge.

In the ensuing months, Rip also came to the defense of the Midwest Council on Alcoholism and an essential figure in the concept and founding of Hazelden, originally seen as a haven for clergy and later for the professional class of alcoholic.

His efforts to provide what eventually became a retreat facility and network for recovering priests, which continues today, called Guest House, first located in Wisconsin. Among those that experienced recovery at Guest House was Father Joseph Martin who has given us his Chalk Talk on Alcoholism and a film based on his writings.

Retired from his vocation as a writer of radio, newspaper, magazine and motion pictures—notably of a series called “Minute Mysteries” in Sunday Parade Magazines, where from his Scripter’s Bourne desk in Colfax Wisconsin, he offered “the world’s shortest detective problems and solutions.” Photocrimes was another avenue of his journalistic prowess and each of them were highly distributed serializations.

The history of the AA Fellowship provides many lapses of judgment by members, well known and obscure, that all contributed to the traditions and history of AA. Some of these included those known to all members and others with local and regional notoriety.

Judgment by one alcoholic of another, eloquently defined by our co-founder, Bill W., along with compassion, action, ego, self-interest, humility and charity are all addressed in his telegram and letter. All of these are components of the AA philosophy.

In spite of this bump in the road, along with others, 2218, The Midwest Council on Alcoholism and AA have survived. The Alano Society celebrates 70 years since its incorporation and operation, at the same location-the former John Washburn mansion, continuously and heading into the future.

Rip was a highly desired guest speaker at AA meetings throughout the Midwest, often sharing the “stage” with Pat C. and others. His participation of the expansion of AA in the Minnesota and Wisconsin groups was a key to their success. An excellent essay by him titled “The Paradox of the Alcoholic” is must reading.

— Ken R., Historian

Paul H., Archivist, Area 36 Archives Committee

Sources: SMAA Archives and Book Collection, 2218 Archives and Member Contributions, District History documents

Secondary Confirmations: Courage To Change... Beginnings, Growth and Influence of Alcoholics Anonymous in Minnesota. Forrest Richeson ©1978 Published by M & M Printing. Slaying The Dragon: the history of addiction treatment and recovery in America-Second Printing. William L. White © 1998 Published by Chestnut Health Systems/Lighthouse Institute.

From Our Archives


Southern Minnesota Area Assembly31st Annual Recovery, Unity and Service ConferenceJanuary 6 – 8, 2012

Best Western Hotel – Mankato, Minnesota

Friday evening

5:00 PM Onsite registration begins

7:30 – 7:45 PM Welcome

7:45 – 8:45 PM Session 1: Sponsorship — reliance or guidance?

What makes a good sponsorSonya J.

I plan to share my experience, strength and hope in regards to the sponsors I have had during my sobriety. Why I chose the sponsors I have had and why I have stuck with the one I have now. And of course my journey through the steps and traditions with a sponsor.

Questions 1) Do you have a sponsor? If not, I challenge you not leave this

conference without finding one.2) How willing and open-minded are you to do what your sponsor

suggests? Remember that half-measures avail us nothing.3) How honest are you being with your sponsor?

Rewards and challenges of sponsorshipMary M.

My first major challenge to overcome as a newcomer being spon-sored was to no longer believe the lie that alcohol would make things better... to no longer be enslaved by the warped perceptions of my alcoholic thinking that had ruled my life up to that point. When I was able to suspend disbelief and fear and take the actions of the steps with my sponsor, I began to get the rewards promised throughout the pages of the Big Book, sometimes quickly, sometimes slowly.

Today my major challenge continues to be ignoring the warped per-ceptions of my alcoholic thinking. Without staying in close contact with my sponsor and sponsoring other women, I don’t stand a chance against my alcoholic mind.

Questions: 1) As a sponsee, what actions do I need to take to overcome the

challenge of this “seemingly hopeless state of mind and body”? Once I’ve taken these actions and I’m sponsoring others, do I take different actions? more actions? less actions?

2) As a sponsee and a sponsor, what have been the biggest challenges to taking these actions?

3) In spite of these challenges, what blessings have I received in my life as a result of working the steps and practicing the principles of the program of Alcoholics Anonymous, both as sponsee and sponsor?

9:00 – 10:00 PM Session 2: Young or old — same solution?

Different circumstances, same messageBill B.

While each Alcoholic has suffered personal and individual circum-stances that has brought him or her to the A.A. program, it is vital to their recovery that each will, in their own times and energies, come to understand that through willingness, honesty and open mindedness that full disclosure of ourselves and problems becomes an essential part of recovery and spiritual growth within one’s self, ever allowing us to share and carry the message of this simple program to those that still suffer.

Questions:1) What if my “story” is so unique, that no one will understand me

or believe me?2) Can I do without spiritual help?3) How does fully disclosing myself and my problems to others help?

Recovery, Unity and Service Conference


A common solution on which we can all agreeKristal H.

When I came into Alcoholics anonymous, I believed I was different, but I related to what people would share. My experience was a slow process of discovering the common solution and accepting it, but after every little surrender, I found more peace and happiness. I still need to always remember the basics and that it still is our common solution no matter how much sobriety I have.

Questions: 1) Do my actions reflect the belief that I am an alcoholic, the same

as others?2) Do my actions reflect trusting the process, or at the very least the

willingness to trust the process?3) Is my solution the same today, or do I think I am different?

Saturday morning

8:00 AM Registration opens

9:00 – 10:00 AM Session 3: The message we carry

How we carry the message within our groupJerry S.

The way I carry the message within my group is to be of service within the group. I make sure the doors are open and get coffee. In short, make sure the newcomer feels he is welcome here when he has not been made to feel welcome anywhere for a long time.

Questions:1) What do you do to carry the message to the man or woman who

is still suffering?2) Are you will to go to any length to carry the message?3) How can we better carry the message in our home group?

How we carry the message outside our groupMarty T.

In response to the question of how we carry the message outside our group, I believe this falls into two categories. The first being, reaching out to the still suffering alcoholic by bringing meetings to jails, detox centers, treatment facilities, nursing homes, assisted living facilities,

and the like. The other is how we project ourselves to society as a whole. Living in a community for many years, people ultimately discover my belonging to AA, and how I project myself equates to how they view AA.

Questions:1) Do I portray my best example of AA to the general public in my

daily life?2) How can I be of any help to the professional community? Isn’t that

just for the CPC committee?3) How do I serve my community through cooperation but not

affiliation?

10:15 – 11:15 AM Session 4: Communication today — I am responsible

Is anonymity still importantRyan H.

Recent large anonymity breaks in the media, including a New York Times article titled “Challenging the Second ‘A’ in A.A.”, have many questioning the importance of Anonymity and its true meaning, rel-evance and application. As a society of recovered Alcoholics, we must remain diligent in our efforts to define what it is to be Anonymous, not secret, and remain examples easily accessible and available for those who may need us as we are responsible. The importance, care and concern we place in the principles of humility and sacrifice underlying our Anonymity today, will determine the future survival of our fellowship tomorrow.

Questions:1) With the ever-changing field of social media and the internet,

whose responsibility is it to maintain the privacy, and therefore anonymity, of our online participation and content?

2) As AA members, what can we do in our daily lives to support the protection of our society through the practice of anonymity, as expressed by humility and sacrifice?

3) Can we change the perception that anonymity often means secrecy, while still conveying the importance of the underlining principles of humility and sacrifice?

Humility in a digital ageDrew F.

We as members of AA have a responsibility to safeguard AA as a whole and maintain humility to the best of our abilities in all of our affairs including our daily interaction with social media. I will cover what GSO has discussed about breaking anonymity on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and other sites. I will also touch on stories of mem-bers that have posted information about their involvement in AA and their personal recovery.

Questions:1) What is the motivation behind breaking your anonymity on the

internet?2) Has your anonymity ever been broken and hurt you or helped a still

suffering alcoholic?3) Should you let people know you’re in AA through social media and

how far is too far?


Continued next page


Saturday afternoon

1:00 – 2:00 PM Session 5: Principles for our future

Sacrifice through the traditionsKarl R.

My presentation will be a combination of teaching and experience. My experience is recent sacrifice for the good of a drunk. My teach-ings will be reflections and thoughts from sections of the reading from Language of the Heart and Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions. I will try and tie what we are sacrificing in each of the Traditions for the good of the whole.

Questions:1) Do I fully understand the importance of anonymity to the fellow-

ship a whole?2) Do I sacrifice now as I did when I first became sober?3) Do I practice the principal of self-sacrifice for the good of the

whole in all my affairs?

Guidance through the group conscienceJim V.

The continued evolution of Alcoholics Anonymous is dependent upon having an informed Group Conscience to provide a voice for the AA fellowship. Bill W and Dr. Bob probably could not have envisioned the advances in technology (Internet etc.) which we enjoy today and it’s impact on AA as a whole. However, the 12 Traditions and our Principle of the Group Conscience provides a framework which allows the fellowship to provide informed feedback to our trusted servants at the District, Area and General Service Conference, feed-back which helps shape the future of AA. It is imperative that each AA member takes the time to become well-informed, understand the issues and underlying principles in order to provide that feedback.

Questions:1) What kind of example do I set for others when the Group Conscience

differs from my personal viewpoint? 2) Am I taking the time to become fully informed with any issue/topic

that will be discussed at my home group meeting? 3) How do I as a Trusted Servant insure that my home group is

fully informed on any topic without influencing the group with my opinions?

2:15 – 3:15 PM Session 6: Moving forward through rotation

Service experience — passing it onJosh R.

Rotation among AA Service positions is one of the most essential aspects of our service Structure. Communicating effectively the most important information about a position to a new AA service member can be the difference between getting a job done correctly and having to do that job again at a later date (include example). Fostering lead-ership and responsibility in members new to service will insure that our members continue to participate in General Service. Keeping our members well informed can help keep members at the door, but we have a responsibility to our positions to insure that all pertinent infor-mation is passed along, even if that means taking responsibility for a position we have rotated out of for that transitioning time period.

Questions:1) What critical information should be passed down when a

position rotates?2) How responsible should an AA member rotating out of a Service

Position be for that Service Position during times of transition?3) Are we moving forward through rotation or are we playing

catch up?

Developing future trusted servantsErica J.

I began doing service work very early in my sobriety. As the Trusted Servant and later GSR of my home group I learned to trust in the group conscience. Agreeing to do whatever is asked of me has played an important part in taking on new service commitments. Learning to deal with uncertainties and to ask for guidance from others in the program while in service has definitely helped me to stay sober.

Questions:1) What should you do if you find someone (or yourself) to be in a

service position that they (or yourself) are not qualified to be in?2) What ways can we encourage others, even those with reservations

or doubts to give service a try?3) How do we pass on the desire for service without scaring some

away from service?



3:30 – 4:30 PM Session 7: Service — our spiritual inheritance

Our ultimate responsibilityTom B.

When I was new to A.A., it took time and experience to understand of the spiritual aim of AA’s Third Legacy of Service, particularly in General Service. Through experience, I have come to understand that the development of a group conscience in committee, district and area meetings is the means, not the ends, through which God shows our fellowship how it can better carry our lifesaving message to the alcoholic who still suffers. Therefore, when I engage in my “Ultimate Responsibility,” I am more effective in carrying this message both inside and outside of A.A.; deepening the spiritual inheritance I will pass on to those who come after me.

Questions:1) Does my group, committee, district, and area ask “Is this service

really needed?” Do I contribute time, money, and energy to these “really needed” services?

2) How do you define, in your own words, “Our Ultimate Responsibility”? 3) How has A.A. General Service changed your perspective about

yourself, your group, and A.A. as a whole?

Servants or senatorsLarry F.

Senators have the highest deliberative legislative authority and make policy; and in higher education a governing or disciplinary body. Our early pioneers ran into the same issues that we encounter today in our steering committee, district and area meetings. My journey into service several years ago started with those very issues, how to bring opportunities to the groups without being demanding of their cooperation.

Questions:1) Do we take personal credit for the opportunities that Alcoholics

Anonymous gives to us?2) How do we put forth ideas without mandating?3) Do you see sponsorship as Service?

4:30 – 7:00 PM Dinner (on your own)

7:00 – 8:30 PM Saturday evening open speaker meeting

Clayton V., Southwest Regional Trustee

8:45 – 9:15 PM “Ask it basket”

9:15 – 10:15 PM Ice cream social and fellowship

Sunday morning

9:00 – 10:00 AM Session 8: Wisdom — learning from the experience of others

Coming of age in a digital worldCarla W.I will be sharing based on my experience in the AA service structure as well as my interactions with social media and individuals outside of AA. Below are three questions which are meant to elicit discussion after this presentation.

Questions:1) Am I practicing the principle of attraction rather than promotion in

my dealings with digital media, including social networking?2) How do I practice the principle of anonymity in my personal and pro-

fessional interactions with individuals who are not members of AA?3) Do I respect the principle of anonymity in my interactions with AA

members outside the rooms of AA, including digital media channels?

The Concepts— our road forwardCarla N.

The Twelve Concepts for World Service are probably the least talked about “12’s” in our Fellowship, be it at A.A. meetings or in our per-sonal stories. Yet these “12” are part of our equally measured triangle. As we continue to move forward into the Digital Age how can they be used to guide us? Please consider:

Questions:1) What does the world service structure Principles of “Right of

Decision,” Right of Participation,” “Right of Appeal” and “Right of Petition” mean to me as a member of A.A., in my home group, District, Area, Region and in general service?

2) How can I as a member ensure that the Warranties (Concept XII) are being adhered to?

3) What Principles are in the Twelve Concepts for World Service that will save us from ourselves?

10:15 – 11:15 AM Session 9: Anonymity and affiliation — practicing spiritual principles in the digital age

Clayton V., Southwest Regional Trustee

11:15 AM – 11:30 AM Closing remarks

Angie E., Area 36 Delegate

Doug C., Committee Chair



Last Update: 09/26/2010 Look for more detailed information about events and locations in the Area Newsletter (The Pigeon) and the Area Website (www.area36.org) as dates approach.

2011 Southern Minnesota Area Assembly Calendar of Events January 21 – 23 Recovery, Unity & Service Conference Best Western, North Mankato, MN 7:30 pm 1/21 – Noon 1/23 February 5 Area Committee Meetings Best Western, North Mankato, MN Standing Committees Meet 9:30 am – 11:30 am Area Committee Meeting 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm February 19 Trusted Servant Leadership Training Peace Lutheran Church, Hutchinson, MN

9:00 am – 4:00 pm March 4 – 6 West Central Regional Service Conference Grand View Lodge, Nisswa, MN 7:00 pm 3/4 – Noon 3/6

March 26 Area Assembly Hutchinson Event Center, Hutchinson, MN 9:00 am – 5:00 pm April 9 Delegate’s Workshop Gopher Hills Golf Club, Cannon Falls, MN Break-Out Sessions to Discuss Agenda Items 9:00 am – 11:30 am Delegate's Discussion Time 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm May 1 – 7 61st Annual General Service Conference New York, New York May 14 Area Committee Meetings Best Western, North Mankato, MN Standing Committees Meet 9:30 am – 11:30 am Area Committee Meeting 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm July 9 Area Assembly St. John’s Lutheran Church, Northfield, MN 9:00 am – 5:00 pm August 6 Area Committee Meetings Best Western, North Mankato, MN Standing Committees Meet 9:30 am – 11:30 am Area Committee Meeting 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm

September 9 – 11 West Central Regional Forum Clarion Hotel & Conference Center Davenport, IA 7:00 pm 9/9 – Noon 9/11

October 22 Area Assembly Holiday Inn, Austin, MN 9:00 am – 5:00 pm December 3 Area Committee Meetings Best Western, North Mankato, MN Standing Committees Meet 9:30 am – 11:30 am Area Committee Meeting 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm

All Southern Minnesota Area Assembly events are open to all members of Alcoholics Anonymous, except the Annual General

Service Conference. Everyone is encouraged to attend, and participate in, all Southern Minnesota Area Assembly events.

Attendance and participation is a responsibility of all General Service Representatives, Alternate General Service

Representatives, District Committee Members, Alternate District Committee Members, District and Area Committee Chairs

and their respective Alternates, and District and Area Officers and their respective alternates.

2011 Calendar of Events


Last Update: 11/28/11 Look for more detailed information about events and locations in the Area Newsletter (The Pigeon) and the Area Website (www.area36.org) as dates approach.

2012 Southern Minnesota Area Assembly Calendar of Events

January 6– 8 Recovery, Unity & Service Conference Best Western, North Mankato, MN 7:30 pm 1/6 – Noon 1/8

January 28

Trusted Servant Leadership Training Wooddale Church, Eden Prairie, MN 9:00 am – 4:00 pm

February 4

Area Committee Meetings Standing Committees Meet Area Committee Meeting

Best Western, North Mankato, MN 9:30 am – 11:30 am 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm

February 25

Area Inventory St. John’s Lutheran Church, Northfield, MN9:00 am – Noon

March 2–4

West Central Regional Service Conference Holiday Inn, Billings, Montana 7:00 pm 3/2 – Noon 3/4

March 24

Area Assembly Best Western/Nicollet Inn, Burnsville, MN 9:00 am – 5:00 pm

April 14

Delegate’s Workshop Break-Out Sessions to Discuss Agenda Items Delegate's Discussion Time

AmericInn, Mankato, MN 9:00 am – 11:30 am 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm

April 22– 28 62nd Annual General Service Conference New York, New York

May 12



June 23

Area Assembly St. John’s Lutheran Church, Northfield, MN9:00 am – 5:00 pm

August 11



October 13

Area Assembly Hutchinson Event Center, Hutchinson, MN9:00 am – 5:00 pm

December 1



All Southern Minnesota Area Assembly events are open to all members of Alcoholics Anonymous, except the Annual General Service Conference. Everyone is encouraged to attend, and participate in, all Southern Minnesota Area Assembly events.

Attendance and participation is a responsibility of all General Service Representatives, Alternate General Service Representatives, District Committee Members, Alternate District Committee Members, District and Area Committee Chairs and their respective Alternates, and District and Area Officers and their respective alternates.

2012 Calendar of Events

SOUTHERN MINNESOTA AREA ASSEMBLYP.O. Box 2812Minneapolis, MN 55402

CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED

News from theSouthern Minnesota

Area AssemblyDecember 2011

NON-PROFIT ORGANIzATION

U.S. POSTAGEPAID

FARIBAULT, MNPERMIT NO. 21

The next deadline forThe Pigeonis on or before

Saturday, February 4, 2012www.area36.org

the pigeon - area36.org2011 december pigeon... · the pigeon newsletter of the southern minnesota...

Documents