the san diego aa coordinator · the san diego aa coordinator ... i now realize that god is managing...

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Published Monthly by the Central Office of the San Diego County Groups of Alcoholics Anonymous

“We admitted we were powerless over alcohol - that our lives had become unmanageable.” (from Big Book, page 59)

The San Diego AA Coordinator

JANUARY 2016 VOL. XVI NO.1

Join the fun and

submit an article! Monthly Themes

FEBRUARY How did you come to believe? (due 12/20/15) MARCH God as YOU understand him. (due 1/24/16) APRIL What does autonomy mean to your group? (due 2/21/16) Submit a 500 to 1,000 word story to Newsletter Chair at: [email protected] For more information, see page 2

Meetings in Motion, p. 4 Coordinating Council

Minutes, pgs. 5-6 Financial Statements, p. 7 Group Contributions,

pgs. 8-9 Central Office Notes, p. 10 Calendar of Events,

pgs. 11-12 Upcoming Events & Speaker

Meetings, p. 13

NO LOOP FOR YOU! By Anonymous

The topic this month is the first step and, if it is a two part process, does that allow for a loophole. I spent much of my life looking for loopholes, trying to prove that rules for other people did not apply to me. Upon entering A.A., I would have welcomed an “out”. Fortunately, I have never been able to find one.

For me Step One was definitely a two part process. I actually took the first part (admitting I was powerless over alcohol) long before I knew anything about the steps! You see I had proven to myself that I could not, not drink. Already realizing that booze was destroying my life, I had tried to quit on numerous occasions, always without success. I often hear others say that they could quit for a week, or a month, or even longer, but they could not “stay quit”. Not me, two days was my limit. By that time I was a physical and mental wreck – a state of being which could only be relieved (temporarily) by the consumption of alcohol.

Eventually I quit trying to quit. I accepted the fact that I would keep on drinking until I died of alcoholism or killed myself, which was much more likely. However I was still “managing” my life, or so I thought. An objective observer would have noted that I was not too successful in these efforts, but, as they say, I was doing the best that I could at the time. So for me, it wasn’t until I had to face the second part of the first step, that I was able to stagger into the rooms of Alcoholics Anonymous. My life HAD become unmanageable, at least by me.

I have heard folks in A.A. say that their lives were never, and will never be, manageable by their own efforts. They leave it all up to God. Well God didn’t pick up the kids from school, write the rent check, pay the taxes, or change the oil in the car. All tasks which at times I didn’t seem to be able to manage to do while I was drinking. I guess I am a strict constructionist in the legal sense regarding the language of Step One. That is one who interprets the words quite literally. Admitting…”that our lives had become unmanageable” (Reprinted with permission from A.A.W.S. “Alcoholics Anonymous”, p.59) implies that at one time we were able to manage our lives.

All I know is that since I got sober, things seem to be working out better in my life. The promises have come true. As you recall one of them states, “We will intuitively know how to handle situations which use to baffle us.” (Reprinted with permission from A.A.W.S. “Alcoholics Anonymous” p. 84) Handle, manage…whatever. I can now manage some aspects of my life, but not all. Fortunately I now realize that God is managing for me what I cannot manage myself. A good team, with a great Captain!

What about the loophole? I don’t see it. We are told that the only step we have to work perfectly is the first. It may be a two-parter for some as it was for me, but both parts are needed in order to be successful. Dropping through a hole here would take me to a place which I never again want to visit. It is a place where we have all been –pitiful and incomprehensible demoralization.

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2 SAN DIEGO CENTRAL OFFICE24 HOUR PHONE (619) 265-8762 OUR WEB PAGE www.aasandiego.org E-MAIL: [email protected] FAX: (619) 265-2954 OFFICE & BOOKSTORE Mon-Fri 9am-5pm Sat 9 am – 1 pm Central Office Manager: Connie L. Administrative Assistant: Denise H.

The San Diego “AA Coordinator” is a monthly newsletter published by the San Diego Central Office of Alcoholics Anonymous. Opinions expressed are not necessarily those of Alcoholics Anonymous as a whole, nor does publication of any article imply endorsements by Alcoholics Anonymous or San Diego Central Office, except when Conference approved publications are quoted.

Contributions from A.A. members are welcome and will be printed as space allows and as they are relevant to the upcoming topic(s) (see page 1, bottom left).

Submissions may be emailed to the newsletter chair at [email protected]. They may also be typed or neatly handwritten and mailed to Central Office or delivered in person to the committee before the fourth Thursday of the month at 6PM, Central Office. Submissions must include contact information and a name (your name and last initials only). The editors reserve the right to edit contents for length, clarity, and their relation to the Twelve Traditions of Alcoholics Anonymous. An effort will be made to contact the author regarding content changes.

Phone Volunteers, 12th Step Calls, meeting information, group and individual contributions, book and literature sales, Coordinating Council and Intergroup Information can be obtained at the Central Office.

Please contact Central Office at 619-265-8762 for Officer’s phone numbers.

Coordinating Council Officers: Council Chair

Steve E. [email protected]

Council Assistant

Precious [email protected]

After Hours Phones

Renea [email protected]

Business Committee

Natalie F. [email protected]

Program Committee

Rudy M. [email protected]

Public Info Curtis T. [email protected] Newsletter Chris F. [email protected] Area Officers:Delegate Dean B. [email protected] Alternate Delegate

Jane G. [email protected]

Area Chair Roxanne [email protected] Archives Linda R. [email protected] H & I Chair Diana A. Contact Central Office

Contributors: Anonymous, Blaine H., Rick R., Mario S., Chris F.

Jan. Theme: Is the First Step really a two-part problem? (a.k.a. Is there a loophole?)

Collate: Wed., January 20th, 2016 5:30 pm, at Central Office

All are welcome.

VIEW FROM THE CHAIR: The theme for this January edition was the First

Step, which makes it ironic that this is the last edition that I will have the honor of being the Chair of this committee. I really am grateful for the opportunity over these past months to have the first look of these editions and to play my small part in carrying the message. The theme is posed as a question, so I hope you will enjoy our submissions as they each try to answer the question for themselves.

Thank you for letting me serve, and I am eager to see how the next committee and chair bring new perspective to this Newsletter.

The Newsletter Committee continues to need members to write articles, write poems, and to fold and collate the newsletter once a month. We also need submissions from the AA population at large! Ask for participation in your meetings so everyone has a chance to carry the message. If you have something to say, write it down and email it to: [email protected].

We have professional writers and editors on staff and we can make you look good in print.

I welcome your input and constructive criticism. Till next month when we again meet between the covers.

Thank you for allowing me to serve, Chris F.

HELP WANTED

The Coordinator Newsletter Committee has immediate openings on the

committee for writers. No experience necessary. Please contact Central

Office for Chris F. phone number or email your submission to

[email protected]

2

Poets Wanted Here Your Newsletter Committee invites you to participate in a monthly AA Poem feature.

Please submit your original poems to: [email protected] – 200 words or less.

HELL YES! POWERLESS! By Blaine H.

Any clear mind could plainly see That booze always had the best of me. And sober today, I truly think It happened with the very first drink.

A blackout drinker from the onset The diagnostic criteria then were met. For once the craving did set in I became a slave to rum and gin.

Early on I might refuse a pour But the clue was I always wanted more. And usually what it was all about At end of day I was passed out.

In choice of drink I was quite free, Whatever you had was fine with me. I would gladly empty out your larder Of wine or beer or something harder.

But what ere the spirit, the results the same, Twas the booze that always won the game. The Jacks, the Jims, the Old Grand-Dads, They always had me by the nads.

There are drinks today I’ve never tried. But no doubt I still would end up fried, And would lose again if I chose to grapple With a martini made from apple.

Today it’s no problem to confess That over booze I’m totally powerless. But now the obsession has been lifted By a team with which I’m gifted.

A higher power whom I call God, And a bunch of fellows who are quite odd. But odd in the same way as me Happy, joyous, and also free!

3 November 2015

Total Calls 1,317

Central Office Phone Calls and Website Hits

Meeting General 12 Step Daytime 752 302 20 9am-9pm

Nighttime 179 62 2 9pm-9am Website

Hits November Total

27,463 1,935,912

Many A.A. members celebrate their birthday by sending a donation of one or two dollars for each year of sobriety to Central Office. If you would like to carry

on this tradition, please fill out the form below.

Birthday Gratitude

Name

City/Home Group

Sobriety Date

Amt. Enclosed

Please mail to: San Diego Central Office 7075-B Mission Gorge Rd San Diego, CA 92120-2454

All birthdays submitted will be published the month following submission. Please contact the newsletter chair if a birthday has not been published for two

months following submission.

3

4

4 MEETINGS IN MOTION

National CityWed @ 12 noon

National CityFri @ 7:30 pm

4077 Mash Step 11 : Read Meditate La Mesa MensAllied Gardens Allied Gardens Step Study La Mesa Step Study Workshop Sat @ 2:00 pm Battery Chargers Laguna Mountain Group

Casa De Oro Tradition Five North Park MensCedar Street Mens OB Womens Step Study

Chula Vista Clairemont Mens Old Town SpeakersTues @ 7:00 pm Clairemont Womens S/S Over The Bridge

Downtown Discussion Pacific Beach Young PeopleLa Jolla Fisherman In Recovery Point Loma MensWed @ 12 noon Fourth Dimension Group Poter Hall Stuctured Step Study

Freash Start Beginners Scripps Ranch Mens Two

Kearny Mesa Friday Night Irregulars Sky Hi WomensFri @ 12 noon Friday Nite Weeks End Southern Cal Speakers

God Squad Too Sunday MiddayGolden Hill Sun Discussion Sunrise Promises

Great Fact Group The We GroupHarmony Group Thursday Steps

Imperial Beach Group Wednesday Rule 62 Lunch GroupJust Us Girls Womans Gut Level

La Jolla Beginners Group

Coordinating Council AttendanceThe following 39 groups attended December Coordinating Council

There are 760 groups in San Diego**NEW MEETING**

Reprinted with permission from A.A.W.S Reprinted with permission from A.A.W.S

WAS YOUR GROUP THERE?NEXT COUNCIL MEETING IS: THURSDAY, January 14, 2015

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICETO ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS OF SAN DIEGO

Group and Meeting Changes

Senior Ctr - 183 3rd Ave

Church - 9595 La Jolla Shores Dr

Friday Night Freak ShowOffice Bldg - 1613 Hoover Ave

Office Bldg - 1613 Hoover AveNational City Nooners

Office Bldg - 5107 Waring RdImproving Conscious Contact

"This Matter of Fear" (Page 11-12) January 1962

As the A.A Book says, "Fear is an evil, coroding thread; the fabric of our lives is shot through with it." Fear is surley a bar to

reason , and to love, and of course it invariably powers anger, vainglory, and agression. It underlies maudlin guilt and

paralyzing depression. President Roosevelt once made the significant remark that "We have nothing to fear but fear itself." This is a severe indictment, and it is possibly too sweeping. For all its usual destructiveness, we have found that fear can be the starting point for better things. Fear can be a stepping stone to

prudence and to a decent respect for others. It can point the path to justice, as well as to hate. And the more we have of respect and justice, the more we shall begin to find the love which can suffer

much, and yet be freely given. So fear need not always be destructive, because the lessons of its consequences can lead to

positive values. The achievement of freedom from fear is a lifetime undertaking, one that can never be wholly completed.

When under heavy attack, acute illness, or in other conditions of serious insecurity, we shall all react, well or badly, as the case

may be. Only the vainglourious claim perfect freedom from fear, though their very grandiosity is really rooted in fears they have

temporarily forgotten.

This Is A.A.An Introduction To The A.A

Designed With Purpose

Restaurant - 8878 Clairemont Mesa Blvd

**CANCELLED**

Gilman Group Big Book Study

The Whole Truth

For example we take no pledges, we don’t say that we will "never" drink again. Instead, we try

to follow what we in A.A. call the "24-hour plan." We concentrate on keeping sober just the current twenty - four hours. We simply try to get through one day at a time without a drink. If we

feel the urge for a drink, we neither yield nor resist. We merely put off taking that particular

drink until tomorrow . We try to keep our thinking honest and realistic where alcohol is

concerned. If we are tempted to drink - and the temptation usually fades after the first few

months in A.A. - we ask ourselves whether the particular drink we have in mind would be worth all the consequences we have experienced from

drinking in the past. We bear in mind that we are perfectly free to get drunk, if we want to, that the

choice between drinking and not drinking is entirely up to us. Most important of all, we try to face up to the fact that, no matter how long we

may have been dry, we will always be alcoholics - and alcoholics, as far as we know, can never

again drink socially or normally. We follow the experience of the successful "oldtimers" in another respect. We usually keep coming

regularly to meetings of the local A.A. group with which we have become affiliated....

"The Best of Bill"

The 24 - Hour Plan

Recovery ProgramPamphlet 1 (Page 14)

4 MEETINGS IN MOTION

National CityWed @ 12 noon

National CityFri @ 7:30 pm

4077 Mash Step 11 : Read Meditate La Mesa MensAllied Gardens Allied Gardens Step Study La Mesa Step Study Workshop Sat @ 2:00 pm Battery Chargers Laguna Mountain Group

Casa De Oro Tradition Five North Park MensCedar Street Mens OB Womens Step Study

Chula Vista Clairemont Mens Old Town SpeakersTues @ 7:00 pm Clairemont Womens S/S Over The Bridge

Downtown Discussion Pacific Beach Young PeopleLa Jolla Fisherman In Recovery Point Loma MensWed @ 12 noon Fourth Dimension Group Poter Hall Stuctured Step Study

Freash Start Beginners Scripps Ranch Mens Two

Kearny Mesa Friday Night Irregulars Sky Hi WomensFri @ 12 noon Friday Nite Weeks End Southern Cal Speakers

God Squad Too Sunday MiddayGolden Hill Sun Discussion Sunrise Promises

Great Fact Group The We GroupHarmony Group Thursday Steps

Imperial Beach Group Wednesday Rule 62 Lunch GroupJust Us Girls Womans Gut Level

La Jolla Beginners Group

Coordinating Council AttendanceThe following 39 groups attended December Coordinating Council

There are 760 groups in San Diego**NEW MEETING**

Reprinted with permission from A.A.W.S Reprinted with permission from A.A.W.S

WAS YOUR GROUP THERE?NEXT COUNCIL MEETING IS: THURSDAY, January 14, 2015

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICETO ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS OF SAN DIEGO

Group and Meeting Changes

Senior Ctr - 183 3rd Ave

Church - 9595 La Jolla Shores Dr

Friday Night Freak ShowOffice Bldg - 1613 Hoover Ave

Office Bldg - 1613 Hoover AveNational City Nooners

Office Bldg - 5107 Waring RdImproving Conscious Contact

"This Matter of Fear" (Page 11-12) January 1962

As the A.A Book says, "Fear is an evil, coroding thread; the fabric of our lives is shot through with it." Fear is surley a bar to

reason , and to love, and of course it invariably powers anger, vainglory, and agression. It underlies maudlin guilt and

paralyzing depression. President Roosevelt once made the significant remark that "We have nothing to fear but fear itself." This is a severe indictment, and it is possibly too sweeping. For all its usual destructiveness, we have found that fear can be the starting point for better things. Fear can be a stepping stone to

prudence and to a decent respect for others. It can point the path to justice, as well as to hate. And the more we have of respect and justice, the more we shall begin to find the love which can suffer

much, and yet be freely given. So fear need not always be destructive, because the lessons of its consequences can lead to

positive values. The achievement of freedom from fear is a lifetime undertaking, one that can never be wholly completed.

When under heavy attack, acute illness, or in other conditions of serious insecurity, we shall all react, well or badly, as the case

may be. Only the vainglourious claim perfect freedom from fear, though their very grandiosity is really rooted in fears they have

temporarily forgotten.

This Is A.A.An Introduction To The A.A

Designed With Purpose

Restaurant - 8878 Clairemont Mesa Blvd

**CANCELLED**

Gilman Group Big Book Study

The Whole Truth

For example we take no pledges, we don’t say that we will "never" drink again. Instead, we try

to follow what we in A.A. call the "24-hour plan." We concentrate on keeping sober just the current twenty - four hours. We simply try to get through one day at a time without a drink. If we

feel the urge for a drink, we neither yield nor resist. We merely put off taking that particular

drink until tomorrow . We try to keep our thinking honest and realistic where alcohol is

concerned. If we are tempted to drink - and the temptation usually fades after the first few

months in A.A. - we ask ourselves whether the particular drink we have in mind would be worth all the consequences we have experienced from

drinking in the past. We bear in mind that we are perfectly free to get drunk, if we want to, that the

choice between drinking and not drinking is entirely up to us. Most important of all, we try to face up to the fact that, no matter how long we

may have been dry, we will always be alcoholics - and alcoholics, as far as we know, can never

again drink socially or normally. We follow the experience of the successful "oldtimers" in another respect. We usually keep coming

regularly to meetings of the local A.A. group with which we have become affiliated....

"The Best of Bill"

The 24 - Hour Plan

Recovery ProgramPamphlet 1 (Page 14)

5 Minutes of the Coordinating Council Thursday, December 10, 2015

Steve E. – Council Chair called the 846th meeting to order at 7:30 pm. Twelve Traditions read by Andrew. Council Definition and Purpose read by Parker. There were 2 new Coordinators, 3 Visitors and 5 Birthdays. Roll Call: Precious, Assistant Council Chair reported 39 groups were represented out of 71 registered Coordinators. There was a quorum (26). As per the guidelines a new quorum is established in December as being 50% of the active groups at the Coordinating Council, which is 71. The new quorum is (36). November 2015 minutes were approved. 7th Tradition: $62.55 Area Assembly: No Report Given. H & I Representative: Blaine H., Alternate Chair shared H&I – Takes AA meetings and AA literature into places where people can’t get out to go to meetings – jails, prisons, hospitals, etc. We hold orientation on the 3rd Sunday of each month at noon in the Machinists’ Hall 5150 Kearny Mesa Rd, and the 3rd Thursday of the month 7:00 PM at San Diego AA Central Office. Our subcommittee, Contact on Release, matches people being released from these facilities with AA volunteers who take them to meetings in their local area. It meets the 3rd Tuesday at 6:45 PM at Central Office. Our website is <sdhandi.org>. We are part of the SoCal H&I Intergroup which puts on a conference each year. In 2016 it will be in Orange County April 8 – 10. Information, registration, etc. is available on that website <socalhandi.org>. AFTER HOURS PHONES: Renea, Chair

1. Thank you to the groups that answered AA’s phones this past month.

2. All nights are currently filled. 3. Your groups may also sign up on a waiting

list and individuals may sign up on an emergency fill-in contact list.

4. Thank you for letting me serve you. BUSINESS COMMITTEE: Natalie F., Chair reported Committee met on Tuesday, 12/8/15 at 6:05 pm. Present: Steve E., Frank B., Natalie F., Lauren L., Erica B., Precious P., and Connie L. There was a quorum. It was m/s/c to approve November 2015 Minutes.

It was m/s/c to approve November 2015 Financials Statements. Financials 2015 Financial Statements’ Summary: November Net Revenue is -1,539. Our 2015 YTD Net Revenue is 9,165. Group and Individual Contributions were 9,027. Literature Sales Revenue and CD Bank Interest were 817 while total office and committee expenses were 11,382. Thank you for supporting your Central Office in carrying the message to the suffering alcoholic. Manager’s Report: Your Group and Individual Contributions allow for literature price reductions. See Below.

1. Big Book (hard copy) sale:$7.50 reg. $9.50 2. 12 x 12 (hard copy) sale: $6.90 reg. $8.903. Newcomer Packets: New price $1.00 each 4. ALL pamphlets: 5₵ ea. 5. December’s Book of the Month:

“ANY Grapevine Book”) on sale: $2.00 off 6. 10% discount to AA Groups & AA members

for literature sales for December 2015.7. Secretaries/Treasurers:please include email

address w/contributions to receive receipts. 8. Coordinator Newsletter: sign up for a FREE

subscription electronically by email. Send an email to [email protected].

9. Coordinator Newsletter Jan 2011 - Current issues on our aasandiego.org website.

10. “Calendar of Events” on aasandiego.org website includes downloadable event flyers.

11. Will be receiving $400 electricity credit for faulty air-conditioner. Replaced by landlord.

Business Committee Member reports: 1. Natalie F. reviewed our bank deposits. 2. Frank B. reviewed financial statements. 3. Lauren L. reviewed our aasandiego.org. 4. Steve E. attended Public Information. 5. Precious distributed Council phone lists

OLD BUSINESS: 1.M/s/c to table discussion on floor tile in

volunteer area. NEW BUSINESS:

1. Thank you to Natalie, Jim and Steve. 2. Year-end literature inventory Dec 20th .

Continued on page 6.

5

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Continued from page 5.

COORDINATOR NEWSLETTER: Chris, Chair submitted written report: We have a full issue of original articles by local members. Thank you to those who submitted their experience, strength and hope for others to read. February’s Theme: “How did you come to believe?” March’s Theme: “God as you understand him” Committee will need 4 members for coming year. Submissions of 500-1000 words welcome. Also, Personal Recovery Poems/Limericks 200 words. Send to [email protected] or mail to Central Office at 7075-B Mission Gorge Rd San Diego, CA 92120. Committee NEEDS HELP each month to collate your Coordinator Newsletter. Approximate 1 hour of service. Come join in the fun the Wednesday after Council at Central Office at 5:30 pm.

COORDINATOR OUTREACH: Heidi, reported committee has new volunteers to help. One new group that was visited is here tonight with a new group Coordinator. 10 new groups were visited this month.

ORIENTATION & GUIDELINES Charlie, reported committee met tonight at 6:30 pm. Present: Juan, Susan and Andrew.

1. 2 new Coordinators were orientated. 2. Read Traditions 3 & 4, San Diego History

of AA, Structure of Coordinating Council, Responsibilities, what is a Quorum. New Coordinators, please come next month at 6:30pm.

PROGRAM COMMITTEE: Steve E, Council Chair Reported:

1. Anniversary of AA in SD Breakfast was a success. Joe C., our Area Archivist gave a video/presentation for program.

PUBLIC INFORMATION COMMITTEE: Curtis reported committee met on 12/7/15. 1. Recent Activities:

Save a Life – 11/8/15 was successful 2. Upcoming Events:

Project Homeless Connect 1/27/16 UCSD Health Fair 1/30/16

3. Literature Pamphlet Racks: continue to be refilled. For 2015, 4,700 pamphlets.

4. Thank you to the assistance with rack refills in La Jolla, Miramar, Hillcrest and VVSD. We are still recruiting drivers.

5. Committee needs a secretary.

OLD BUSINESS: There was none.

NEW BUSINESS: 1. Elections: All elected unanimously.

a. Council Chair: Precious P. b. Council Assistant Chair: Frank B. c. After-Hours: Mary Ann d. Business Committee: Jim M. e. Coordinator Newsletter: Mike f. Program Committee: Vince G.

2. Business Committee: Needs 3 members.

3. Coordinator Newsletter: Needs 3 members.

4. Program Committee: Needs 3 members.

5. Public Information: Needs 3 members.

Respectfully submitted, Connie L. Recording Secretary

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San Diego Intergroup, Inc.Alcoholics Anonymous of San DiegoStatement of Revenue and Expense

As of November 30, 2015

7

November 15 November 14 YTD '15 YTD '14 $ Change Budget '15Ordinary Revenue/Expense

RevenueContributions Group 8,451.58 6,002.01 109,263.29 105,223.00 4,040.29 112,700.00 Contributions Individual 575.00 555.00 10,643.57 8,928.89 1,714.68 9,344.00 Contributions SDIAA - - 1,100.00 1,100.00 - 1,110.00 Interest - Cert of Deposits 2.73 3.38 32.14 59.61 (27.47) 75.00

Total Revenue 9,029.31 6,560.39 121,039.00 115,311.50 5,727.50 123,229.00 Expense

Accounting & Legal - - 2,480.00 2,480.00 - 2,540.00 Auto/Travel/Seminar 50.25 38.25 1,514.12 1,465.27 48.85 1,500.00 Bank Service Charges 2.00 2.00 (28.00) 34.30 (62.30) 125.00 Cash (Over) Short 3.22 (36.90) 47.45 (60.49) 107.94 (50.00) Checks Returned - Bad Debt - - - 6.00 (6.00) - Equipment Maint & Repair 51.40 51.40 595.40 610.40 (15.00) 750.00 Equipment Purchase 731.49 1,344.05 1,254.00 2,378.64 (1,124.64) 750.00 Insurance 136.00 76.00 1,710.00 776.00 934.00 1,100.00 Office Maint. & Repairs - 30.57 52.50 291.75 (239.25) 500.00 Office Supplies 100.33 31.43 2,286.03 2,689.51 (403.48) 3,500.00 Rent 1,808.00 1,764.00 19,712.00 19,548.00 164.00 21,520.00 Taxes - - 60.00 80.00 (20.00) 125.00 Telephone 145.42 271.36 1,455.83 2,577.47 (1,121.64) 2,800.00 Utilities-Electricity 360.77 369.37 3,556.64 4,541.50 (984.86) 4,200.00 Website 20.00 20.00 336.25 319.30 16.95 500.00 EMPLOYEES - Accrued Payroll Taxes 480.15 489.65 6,120.64 5,675.40 445.24 6,500.00 Employee Wages 6,247.70 6,385.20 69,174.33 68,939.70 234.63 79,999.00 Employee 403B Contribution 205.00 177.14 2,187.14 1,948.54 238.60 2,200.00 Employee Health Benefit 554.22 529.16 6,588.66 5,849.76 738.90 6,420.00 Insurance-Worker's Comp 75.00 40.00 630.00 480.00 150.00 600.00

Total Expense 10,970.95 11,582.68 119,732.99 120,631.05 (898.06) 135,579.00 Net Ordinary Revenue (1,941.64) (5,022.29) 1,306.01 (5,319.55) 6,625.56 (12,350.00) Other Revenue/Expense

Literature Revenue/ExpenseSales (see schedule) 814.13 1,126.33 14,253.13 18,648.12 (4,394.99) 20,394.00

814.13 1,126.33 14,253.13 18,648.12 (4,394.99) 20,394.00 Standing Committees Expense

Committee (see schedule) 411.01 2.75 6,394.51 5,944.75 449.76 8,044.00 Total Other Expense 411.01 2.75 6,394.51 5,944.75 449.76 8,044.00

Net Other Revenue 403.12 1,123.58 7,858.62 12,703.37 (4,844.75) 12,350.00 Net Revenue (1,538.52) (3,898.71) 9,164.63 7,383.82 1,780.81 -

(16000)(14000)(12000)(10000)

(8000)(6000)(4000)(2000)

02000400060008000

10000120001400016000

Janu

ary

Febr

uary

Mar

ch

Apr

il

May

June July

Aug

ust

Sep

tem

ber

Oct

ober

Nov

embe

r

Dec

embe

r

dolla

rs

months

Revenue & Expense by MonthTotalRevenue

TotalExpenses

NETRevenue

San Diego Intergroup, Inc.Alcoholics Anonymous of San DiegoStatement of Revenue and Expense

As of November 30, 2015

7

November 15 November 14 YTD '15 YTD '14 $ Change Budget '15Ordinary Revenue/Expense

RevenueContributions Group 8,451.58 6,002.01 109,263.29 105,223.00 4,040.29 112,700.00 Contributions Individual 575.00 555.00 10,643.57 8,928.89 1,714.68 9,344.00 Contributions SDIAA - - 1,100.00 1,100.00 - 1,110.00 Interest - Cert of Deposits 2.73 3.38 32.14 59.61 (27.47) 75.00

Total Revenue 9,029.31 6,560.39 121,039.00 115,311.50 5,727.50 123,229.00 Expense

Accounting & Legal - - 2,480.00 2,480.00 - 2,540.00 Auto/Travel/Seminar 50.25 38.25 1,514.12 1,465.27 48.85 1,500.00 Bank Service Charges 2.00 2.00 (28.00) 34.30 (62.30) 125.00 Cash (Over) Short 3.22 (36.90) 47.45 (60.49) 107.94 (50.00) Checks Returned - Bad Debt - - - 6.00 (6.00) - Equipment Maint & Repair 51.40 51.40 595.40 610.40 (15.00) 750.00 Equipment Purchase 731.49 1,344.05 1,254.00 2,378.64 (1,124.64) 750.00 Insurance 136.00 76.00 1,710.00 776.00 934.00 1,100.00 Office Maint. & Repairs - 30.57 52.50 291.75 (239.25) 500.00 Office Supplies 100.33 31.43 2,286.03 2,689.51 (403.48) 3,500.00 Rent 1,808.00 1,764.00 19,712.00 19,548.00 164.00 21,520.00 Taxes - - 60.00 80.00 (20.00) 125.00 Telephone 145.42 271.36 1,455.83 2,577.47 (1,121.64) 2,800.00 Utilities-Electricity 360.77 369.37 3,556.64 4,541.50 (984.86) 4,200.00 Website 20.00 20.00 336.25 319.30 16.95 500.00 EMPLOYEES - Accrued Payroll Taxes 480.15 489.65 6,120.64 5,675.40 445.24 6,500.00 Employee Wages 6,247.70 6,385.20 69,174.33 68,939.70 234.63 79,999.00 Employee 403B Contribution 205.00 177.14 2,187.14 1,948.54 238.60 2,200.00 Employee Health Benefit 554.22 529.16 6,588.66 5,849.76 738.90 6,420.00 Insurance-Worker's Comp 75.00 40.00 630.00 480.00 150.00 600.00

Total Expense 10,970.95 11,582.68 119,732.99 120,631.05 (898.06) 135,579.00 Net Ordinary Revenue (1,941.64) (5,022.29) 1,306.01 (5,319.55) 6,625.56 (12,350.00) Other Revenue/Expense

Literature Revenue/ExpenseSales (see schedule) 814.13 1,126.33 14,253.13 18,648.12 (4,394.99) 20,394.00

814.13 1,126.33 14,253.13 18,648.12 (4,394.99) 20,394.00 Standing Committees Expense

Committee (see schedule) 411.01 2.75 6,394.51 5,944.75 449.76 8,044.00 Total Other Expense 411.01 2.75 6,394.51 5,944.75 449.76 8,044.00

Net Other Revenue 403.12 1,123.58 7,858.62 12,703.37 (4,844.75) 12,350.00 Net Revenue (1,538.52) (3,898.71) 9,164.63 7,383.82 1,780.81 -

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8 8 Group Contributions November 2015 9

Group Nov-15 Ytd 15 Group Nov-15 Ytd 1510 & 11 @ 5107 - 3023 - 305.37 Fishermen In Recovery - 2863 - 150.0011th Step Journey - 2622 - 180.00 Fletcher Hills Smokeless - 59 - 50.0012 X 12 AND BB - 2839 - 175.00 Free At Last - 2888 - 359.054077 Mash Step 11Read-Medita-Share - 2027 90.00 180.00 Free on Friday - 760 - 250.005.45 Meditation - 3085 75.00 75.00 Free Thinkers - 2824 150.00 333.446 O'Clock Big Book Study - 507 - 20.00 Free Thinkers Step Study - 2945 50.00 164.18A New Way To Live - 846 75.75 241.09 Free to Be - 935 - 118.06AA By The Bay - 629 - 370.39 Fresh Air Friday - 266 - 650.00Adams Avenue Big Book Study - 1892 95.00 295.00 Fresh Start Beginners - 2609 - 1,378.00Ain't Life Grand - 2963 150.00 150.00 Friday Happy Hour - 2821 - 40.00Allied Gardens Friday Lunch - 766 - 230.00 Friday Morning Womens - 104 - 405.00Allied Gardens Step Study - 1629 200.00 375.00 Friday Night Big Book Study - 102 - 50.00Alpine Mixed Step Study - 2621 - 50.00 Friday Night Gratitude - 2829 - 281.63Another New Beginning - 144 - 100.00 Friday Night Irregulars - 2889 150.00 369.43Another Sober Tuesday - 1952 - 387.00 Friday Night Santee - 1754 - 384.00As Bill Sees It - 1788 - 15.00 Garnet Group - 1129 - 271.50At One With Each Other - 789 - 270.00 Gifts of Grace Womans - 2564 - 250.00B.Y.O.B. (North Park) - 203 - 480.00 Gilman Group-Fri - 1988 - 110.39Back Country Meeting - 1038 - 72.50 God Squad Too - 2809 - 124.00Back to Basics - 1026 500.00 3,500.00 God Squad Too Prayer & Meditation - 2892 - 165.35Back To Basics For Women - 1675 - 221.00 Golden Hill Sun Discussion - 1706 - 153.45Back To Basics Step Study - 1938 - 126.00 Good Fortune Hui Group - 491 - 300.00Balboa Breakfast - 2721 - 120.00 Good Morning AA - 1888 414.00 1,731.81Battery Chargers - 98 - 350.00 Good News Bad News - 2833 - 113.38Battery Chargers Thanksgiving Alkathon 246.00 246.00 Grape Street Sunrise - 1293 - 50.00Bay Park Step Study Group - 299 - 360.00 Great Fact Group - 895 - 270.00Bayside Big Book Study - 1610 - 450.00 Grupo Gringo - 1305 - 50.00Beach Area Beginners - 272 - 250.00 Hand & Hand Closed Step Study - 2854 - 150.00Beautiful Beginnings - 552 - 20.00 Harmony Group - 585 - 1,894.00Beginners Steps To Sobriety - 1007 - 20.00 Haul Your Hiney Out Of Bed - 704 - 192.60Big Bon-Fire Meeting - 1894 - 80.00 Hi-Nooners - 673 - 316.00Big Book & 12 x 12 Study - 100 - 252.00 High Bottom Drunks - 3102 - 10.00Bonita Boozers - 2179 - 295.00 Hip Slick & Sick Young Peoples - 762 - 190.00Breakfast Of Champions - 2818 250.00 2,211.27 HOW @ Noon - 2998 - 667.00Butts Out - 1764 - 80.00 How It Is Now Speakers - 390 - 232.75Carrying the Message - 2458 - 150.00 How It Is Today - 483 - 200.00Casa De Oro Tradition Five - 503 - 580.25 Hwy 80 AA - 2722 - 120.00Casa De Oro Weds Nite - 2049 - 240.00 I. B. Up - 2565 - 250.00Cedar Street Mens - 1698 150.00 450.00 Imperial Beach Group - 79 241.04 403.50Chula Vista 4 Min Speakers - 1568 100.00 240.00 International Group - 23 - 105.00Chula Vista Friday Night - 837 - 100.00 It's In The Book - 2030 - 118.00Clairemont Mens - 301 - 998.00 It's In The Book - 3084 - 50.00Clairemont Mixed Discussion - 338 - 80.00 Joy Of Living - 2787 - 150.00Clairemont Womens - 340 - 53.78 Judges Big Book - 2736 - 57.50Clairemont Womens Step Study - 341 - 1,042.67 Jump Start - 2174 36.55 416.34Class Acts - 1845 - 966.09 Kelton Ave Big Book Study - 2410 90.00 190.00Coffee Clutchers - 2332 - 1,000.00 Kick Start Your Heart - 2430 - 120.00Come Get Recovery - 2630 - 25.00 La Jolla Beginners Group - 82 - 200.00Coronado Beginners - 344 - 60.00 La Jolla Lunch Bunch - 622 - 300.00Coronado Cays Womens Step Study - 2995 - 266.50 La Jolla Monday Womens - 87 - 1,488.50Coronado Nooners - 497 - 800.00 La Jolla Nonsmokers Disc - 88 - 500.00Coronado Step Study - 1523 - 80.00 La Jolla Pump House Group - 696 237.00 812.86Coronado Sunday Noon - 1830 - 300.00 La Jolla Sunrise - 2684 - 600.00Courage To Change - 2679 - 20.00 La Mesa 12 X12- 2588 - 173.00Cups - 2938 - 730.00 La Mesa Beginners - 2894 50.00 100.00D.D.G.T.M. - 767 - 286.00 La Mesa Big Book - 1689 - 50.00Daily Drinkers - 2953 - 155.00 La Mesa Mens - 106 180.00 180.00Dawn Patrol - 263 273.87 1,736.95 La Mesa Mid Morning - 2777 - 50.00Diamond St Mens Step Study - 569 - 328.28 La Mesa Mixed - 2136 - 10.00Dignity Unlimited - 205 - 1,327.00 La Mesa Step Study Workshop - 1621 - 162.56Do Or Die Group -1947 - 20.00 La Mesa Womens Sat. Morning - 416 - 272.42Downtown Discussion - 1665 - 289.94 Lake Murray Lunch Bunch -2701 - 97.00Drunks Only - 1605 - 950.00 Lake Murray Womens - 572 - 171.12Each Day A New Beginning - 509 - 140.00 Lakeside Drunks - 2423 100.00 100.00Early Morning Recovery - 2688 - 1,349.07 Lakeside Ladies - 3028 - 45.00Early Risers (Coronado) - 1525 - 85.00 Linda Vista Mens - 320 - 177.00Early Risers (PB) - 264 200.00 814.50 Little Apple Group - 1438 - 192.32East Side Group - 101 - 45.00 Living Free - 477 - 2,310.00Eastlake Greens 10 on 10 - 2950 - 176.00 Love and Truth 12x12 - 1617 75.00 75.00Eastlake Greens Attitude Adjust(Su - 2712 - 900.00 Lunch With Bill W Bunch - 774 - 640.00Eastlake Greens Attitude Adjustmen - 2691 69.71 794.36 Lunchtime Friends - 964 52.40 262.00Eastlake New Beginnings B/B S/S - 2673 - 198.00 Lushes Lunch - 2641 - 756.82Easy Does It Riders - 21 120.00 240.00 Men and Womens Monday Night - 95 - 120.00Easy Does It Speakers - 114 - 450.00 Mens Recovery Group - 830 - 470.00Easy Risers - 854 75.00 383.00 Mens Step Study (CV)- 965 - 100.00El Cajon Daytime - 52 - 200.00 Mens Structured Step Study - 1469 - 100.00El Cajon Happy Hour Group - 61 - 274.00 Mid-Week Mens - 560 - 1,095.00El Cajon Nooner - 2638 - 160.00 Midnight Howlers - 1025 100.00 800.00El Cajon Womens Serenity - 77 - 306.90 Midway Bridge - 2171 - 221.87Emotional Sobriety - 2536 - 85.00 Mira Mesa 12 Step Study - 377 - 28.00Evening In Harmony - 2864 - 171.00 Mira Mesa Friday Night - 379 - 210.00Evening Serenity - 2305 - 351.31 Mission Hills Beginners - 1612 100.00 250.00Eye Opener Group - 607 - 910.39 Mission Possible - 131 - 222.00Faculty Group - 1645 - 180.00 Mon Eve Smokeless Dinner - 1723 - 66.00Fairmont Park Discussion - 2832 - 45.44 Monday At A Time - 2875 - 272.20First Mira Mesa Mens - 300 - 77.10 Monday Mens Gut Level Group - 677 - 150.00

8 Group Contributions November 2015 9


9 8 Group Contributions November 2015 9

Group Nov-15 Ytd 15 Group Nov-15 Ytd 15Monday Nite Live- 643 - 100.00 South Clairemont - 305 - 100.00Morning Attitude Adjustment - 768 689.53 1,389.53 Spiritual Awakening - 2275 426.57 2,873.38Mountain Steps - 2822 - 120.00 Spiritual Awakenings Step Study -2601 - 90.00Mt Soledad Mens - 717 - 1,517.00 Spiritual Way Of Life - 2977 - 67.08National City Maintenance - 136 - 190.00 Step Sisters - Residence 133.00 223.25Newcomers Rise & Shine - 2702 - 130.00 Straight Shooters - 198 48.00 109.23Noon At The Grove - 628 - 700.00 Strength In Women - 2955 - 35.00Nooners Anonymous - 1164 - 200.00 Sunday Beach Sun-Day - 568 - 518.47Noontime on the Patio - 2203 - 200.00 Sunday Kind of Love - 429 - 209.00North Clairemont - 1102 - 225.00 Sunday Midday - 161 - 75.00North Clairemont Sat Nooners - 2572 - 30.00 Sunday Morning at the Grove - 117 - 100.00North Shores Breakfast - 275 - 80.00 Sunday Morning Eleventh Step - 1206 - 190.00Not Alone Speakers Group - 1652 - 85.00 Sunday Morning Spiritual Meeting - 1700 - 300.00O B Sunday Candlelite - 2168 - 40.00 Sunday Night Discussion - 212 - 117.25O.B. Womens Step Study - 2730 - 72.92 Sunday Nite Alpine Speakers - 3050 - 600.00OB Peer Group - 2130 - 246.57 Sunday Serenity - 47 - 86.34Old Timers Group - 2037 50.00 50.00 Sunday Womens Group - 2980 - 40.00Old Town Speakers - 321 400.00 900.00 Sunrise Promises - 2166 - 100.00On The Corner - 2384 - 100.00 Sweet Surrender Speakers - 2254 - 30.00One Moment At A Time - 2942 - 100.00 T.G.I.F. - 1658 - 100.00One Step Ahead - 715 - 200.00 Thankful Thursdays - 2542 - 62.50One Step At A Time At Mission Bay - 1664 - 161.40 The 1st 164 - 2760 - 137.71Open Minded Mens - 626 - 200.00 The Campus Meeting - 2911 - 25.00Original Tues Night Step Study - 2124 - 100.00 The Common Solution - 3007 50.00 160.00Over 50 - 840 - 50.00 The Gift - 2954 - 100.00Over The Bridge - 2689 - 565.04 The Hole In The Donut - 2737 - 250.00Pacific Beach Weekend Warmup - 725 - 175.00 The Other Meeting - 857 115.50 754.40Pass It On Big Book Study Group -2860 - 1,037.88 The We Group - 2739 - 218.58Poinsettia Group - 2210 - 372.50 The We Group Speakers - 2835 - 200.00Point Loma AA Discussion - 242 - 3.45 The Whole Truth - 3073 - 60.00Point Loma Mens - 245 - 50.00 There Is A Solution - 2975 - 624.00Point Loma Nooners - 1606 - 400.00 Thursday Campus Noon Group-2387 50.00 205.00Point Loma Saturday Morning - 1240 - 145.00 Thursday Promises Promises - 749 75.00 75.00Primary Purpose Group (PB) - 287 - 250.00 Tierrasanta Big Book Study - 1790 - 120.00Progress Rather Then Perfection - 2682 100.00 450.00 Tierrasanta Friday Night - 2645 - 150.00Pt Loma Fri Afternoon Step Study - 244 - 564.00 Tierrasanta Morning Serenity - 2811 30.00 448.00Pt Loma Womens Discussion - 1608 - 520.00 Top of The Hill - 41 - 355.75Radical Acceptance Meeting - 2961 - 1,680.00 Torrey Pines Open Disc - 94 5.16 555.16Rainbow Bridge - 817 - 100.00 Torrey Pines Thurs Nite Disc - 365 - 40.00Ramona High Noon - 2778 - 30.00 Tri-Serenity - 836 - 20.00Ramona Mens New Vision - 1949 - 25.00 Tues Morning Breakfast Special - 2761 - 490.00Ramona Monday Night - 1618 - 47.59 Tues Night Mens Step Study - 1813 - 250.00Ramona Sisters in Sobriety - 25.00 Tuesday Campus Noon Group - 2544 50.00 205.00Ramona Way Of Life - 2772 - 70.00 Tuesday Morning Alpine - 440 - 200.00Resentment and A Coffee Pot - 2561 - 460.00 Two Bit Speakers - 201 - 192.52Rez Recovery - 3095 5.00 25.00 University City Disc.- 368 - 50.00Riding Sober - 3054 - 100.00 University City Womens - 369 - 800.00Rise & Shine - 2170 208.50 2,475.95 Valley Girls - 2617 - 1,117.30Rocket Riders - 1730 240.00 530.00 Victory Group - 2108 - 148.50Rule 62 - 2947 150.00 150.00 Wake Up Call - 1932 40.00 331.29Rule 62 Group - 927 - 248.04 War Fever - 880 - 40.00Safe Sane and Sober - 1350 - 1,403.60 Water Walkers - 5 - 210.00San Carlos Single Purpose - 583 - 118.80 Water Walkers Too - 1946 - 610.20San Diego Doctors Step Study - 194 275.00 475.00 Way Up and Out - 415 - 150.70San Diego Feeling Good - 275.38 We've Come Along Way - 1616 - 37.50Santee Mens Group - 2972 - 158.00 We Agnostics - 2096 - 100.00Santee Saturday Night Speakers - 2656 - 75.00 We Are Not A Glum Lot BB Study - 2841 - 75.20Santee Serenity - 3041 - 86.17 Wednesday Night Closed Topic - 165 60.00 60.00Santee Serenity Group - 1943 - 160.00 Weds Rule 62 Lunch Group - 687 - 822.60Santee Thursday Closed Mixed - 145 - 225.00 Whistling In The Dark Mens - 2943 - 250.00Sat Mens Early Awakening - 2209 - 200.00 Wholesale Miracle - 2474 - 240.00Sat Night Early Discussion - 336 - 470.00 Womans Gut Level - 1701 - 100.00Saturday A.M. Live - 782 - 491.22 Womans Let Go and Let God - 446 - 143.63Saturday Morning Sanity - 1989 - 135.00 Women's Joy Of Living - 2636 - 159.00Saturday Night Fervor - 208 - 28.80 Women In Harmony - 1807 - 32.50Scripps Ranch Men's Two - 2776 - 375.00 Women In Sobriety - 697 44.00 64.00Serene-Tea - 2700 - 90.00 Womens Meeting - 2903 - 100.00Serenity @ 5107 - 2976 - 60.00 Womens Thursday Nite - 514 - 200.00Serenity Seekers - 209 - 140.00 Womens TLC - 2814 - 112.50Sisters in Sobriety-Ramona 25.00 25.00 Womens Way To Recovery - 838 - 50.00Sky Hi Womens - 1633 20.00 224.95Smokeless Drunks Luncheon - 1008 - 303.00So Bay New Womens - 2325 - 170.00Sober Minded Leather Folk - 1882 - 208.10Sober Nooners - 196 165.00 544.99Sober On Sat Book Study - 2193 - 50.00Sober Roses Womens Step Study - 2946 - 50.00Sober Serenity Seekers - 887 - 80.00Sober Survivors - 2915 - 175.00Sobriety At All Cost - 3006 30.00 88.00Sobriety On State And Date - 2697 - 365.07Sobriety Party - Ramona - 60.00Sole Purpose Group - 1657 - 420.00Solutions Not Excuses - 2857 - 50.00Sons of God - 2789 - 900.50Sorrento Valley Nooner - 544 - 20.00

Thank you for supporting your San Diego Intergroup Central Office in carrying the message to the suffering alcoholic. Your group contributions have allowed for reduced literature prices.

8 Group Contributions November 2015 9


10 CENTRAL OFFICE NOTES2015 Holidays – Central Office Bookstore closed

HOLIDAY DAY OF WEEK DATE Christmas Friday December 25, 2015 New Years Friday January 1, 2016

Book and Pamphlet of the Month “AA Big Book” (hard copy) on sale: $7.50 reg. $9.50 continued max: 5

“12 x 12” (hard copy) on sale: $6.90 reg. $8.90 continued max: 5 All Pamphlets: sale: 5¢each max: 5 of each.

December’s Book: “Any Grapevine Book” on sale: $2.00 off

The San Diego AA Coordinator NewsletterBack Issues archived on our aasandiego.org website.Published by Newsletter Committee - San Diego AA Central Office.(Contents: Sobriety stories, poems, events, financials and group contributions)

2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 January January January January JanuaryFebruary February February February February

March March March March MarchApril April April April AprilMay May May May MayJune June June June JuneJuly July July July July

August August August August AugustSeptember September September September September

October October October October OctoberNovember November November November NovemberDecember December December December December

Group Contributions 8,452.00Individual Contributions 575.00SDIAA Contributions 0.00Literature & Interest 817.00

Total Revenue 9,844.00

Central Office Expenses -10,971.00Committee Expenses -411.00

Total Expenses -11,382.00November 2015 Net Revenue -1,538.002013 Net Revenue 1,418.112015 YTD Revenue 9,165.00

November 2015 Financial Summary

aasandiego.org

“Calendar of

Events” page, there

is a link to a

downloadable

Flyer for

each event

whenever possible.

10

11

ACTION GOD PIONEERSAGNOSTIC HARMONY POWERASYLUM HONEST POWERLESSATTITUDES LENGTHS PURPOSECRAVING LIVING SOLUTIONDEFECTIVE LOSE SURRENDERDESIGN PATIENCE TROUBLESDESIRE PAUSE VISIONDRUNKENESS

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS11

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12

13

THINGS TO DO AND PLACES TO GO51st Annual Holiday Alkathon & Potluck

Where: Legion Hall - 8118 University AveLa Mesa CA, 91942

When: December 24, 6:00 pm (Potluck) Contact: Central Office 619-265-8762

2015 Christmas Alcathon South Bay Pioneer'sWhere: 270 C Street - Chula Vista, CAWhen: (12/24) - 1:30 pm - (12/25) - 12 noonContact: Central Office 619-265-8762

2015 Christmas Alcathon South Bay Pioneer'sWhere: 270 C Street - Chula Vista, CAWhen: (12/31) - 1:30 pm - (01/01/16) - 12 noonContact: Central Office 619-265-8762

Alcoholics Anonymous 42nd Annual New Year's Eve Alkathon

Sponsored By (Districts 6, 7, & 19)Where: 625 Pennsylvania Ave, San Diego, CaWhen: (12/31) - 2:00 pm until (1/1/16) - 6:00 pmContact: Central Office 619-265-8762

Joy of Living 26th Annual River Roundup Where: Laughlin, Nevada When: January 7th - 10th 2016Contact: Central Office 619-265-8762

"Pass It On"Alcoholics Anonymous (Round - Up)

Where: Yuma, ArizonaWhen: February 19, 20 & 21, 2016Contact: Central Office 619-265-8762

San Diego Spring Round UpWhere: San Diego Town & Country ResortWhen: March 24 - 217, 2016 Contact: Central Office 619-265-8762 `

44th ACYPAA Round-up"All California Young People in Alcoholic Anoymous"

Where: Hyatt Regency Orange County11999 Harbor Blvd - Garden Grove, CA 92840

When: April 21 - 24 2016 Contact: Central Office 619-265-8762

Have the San DiegoAA Coordinator delivered

for one year for only $15.00

Nam

e:____________

Address:

Mail to: C

EN

TR

AL

OFFIC

E

7075-B M

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GO

RG

E R

OA

D

SAN

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, CA

92120-2454

The “I AM RESPONSIBLE CLUB” is a reserve fund maintained by the Blood Banks

for the use of members of Alcoholics Anonymous and their families in time of need. The strength and availability of this account is

directly related to your support. If you need blood please contact Central Office at:

(619) 265-8762.If you give blood be sure to credit the

“I AM RESPONSIBLE CLUB” at the time of your donation.

13

14STEP ZERO

By: Rick R.

“We learned that we had to concede to our innermost selves that we were alcoholics. This is the first step in recovery.” (Reprinted with permission from A.A.W.S. “Alcoholics Anonymous” p. 30) What does that mean to me? I thought I was doing it when I admitted that I was an alcoholic but I soon learned better. Recently I heard a member referring to it as step zero, and I can see what he meant. There is a difference in conceding to my innermost self, and the act of admitting to others that I am an alcoholic. Without the concession, I could not really admit it to myself or to anyone else. Once I got it done on the inside, the outside part came much easier.

When it became apparent that drinking wasn't working for me anymore and, in fact, it was going to an early end, I showed up at the doors of AA wanting the pain to stop and I thought that I was addressing the problem of alcoholism. As I look back on it now, I realize that I was only dealing with the surface issues and not the root causes of my problems. Even so, it was a beginning. It took quite a while for me to understand the importance of looking at the deeper flaws in my value system and to address them at that level. When I began to do this, I started to change the surface issues that are caused by those character flaws.

At a meeting recently, I heard a young man share that “ alcohol wasn’t his problem, that alcohol was the treatment for his problem until it stopped working, then he had to stop drinking and learn to deal with those deeper problems if he were to get any relief at all. I found that to be very insightful for someone his age and time in the program.

I believe that if I want to live a full and happy life, I must examine my innermost motives for what I do. That, I believe, is the source of my problems. If my motives are honest, unselfish, and based on sound principles, and if I am strong enough to do what is right in each of these actions, I become more at peace with myself and I have fewer regrets. As it often happens, alcoholics resist

complete surrendering until they have come to the point where they have lost more than they were willing to lose, or they are about to lose something they are unwilling to lose. Now they have to decide whether or not they want to continue to go down that road to destruction.

In A.A. we sometimes hear the term, “THE GIFT OF DESPERATION”. Painful as it sounds, the veterans of A.A. know the importance of reaching bottom if we have any chance of practicing the rest of the program at the level of our innermost selves for that is where our problems lie, and that is also where real solutions lie. If I don’t understand this about myself, I will keep repeating the mistakes of the past and probably waste much of the precious time God gave me.

I wish I could say that it was easy but, just knowing this was only the beginning. My EGO dogged my every step. It takes diligence and commitment to stay the course. In the portion of Chapter 5 that we read at the beginning of each meeting, honesty is mentioned three times and without some degree of honesty, with ourselves especially, we have little chance of success. If, however, we can muster the strength to take that leap of faith, the rewards will be immeasurable.

In the words of Shakespeare, “This above all: to thine own self be true and it must follow, as the night the day, Thou canst not then be false to any man.

14

1515

OUR FIRST STEP By Mario S.

I get up in the morning and as the sun greets me and as the coffee pots stirs and gurgles. I know I'm an alcoholic, and that’s okay because today I have a solution.

A few years ago I was faced with the alcoholic destruction of my family and turned to A.A. It wasn't easy getting to A.A., nor was it easy to admit to the world that I was an alcoholic. I had a great run with my friend “alcohol.” In my teens, it made me the life of the party and made me feel alive. As an adult, it became a real part of my life, not just something to have fun with. In my twenties, I found a group of friends that drank more than I did and our parties became one challenge after another of who could drink the most. Wine, women, and song…it seemed to all be great fun, although, looking back I can easily see now that this was the beginning of my alcoholism.

I think that maybe the obsession and spiritual malady had been with me all along. I know that alcohol surely relieved in me something that nothing else in my life quite did. And then, sometime before I turned thirty, I crossed some invisible line and the point of no return. I triggered the physical allergy of my alcoholism. There came a day when I no longer looked to drink for fun and good times, but drinking was a simple fact of my life; a need that filled my days waiting and planning until I could get that next drink. I began to glimpse a life where I couldn’t stop drinking.

Our book suggests that many of us would have perhaps stopped if we had recognized and desired to stop earlier in our drinking, but that few of us have any real desire to stop until it's too late. That was definitely the case with me. Even as the alcohol was a daily affair and I was a daily hard drinker, I had yet to find the consequences of my drinking ominous or dire enough to make a change. The loss of my bodily functions halfway thru parties, the DUI's and even the cold jail cell floor weren’t too much to cause me to even consider stopping drinking. Sure, I might lay off the hard stuff for a bit, or drink only on a full stomach, and a few times I tried only drinking on the weekends. I frequently tried to change the way I drank rather than addressing the fact that I now needed alcohol to function. I even remember when a friend of mine announced as part of his marriage commitment he was going to stop drinking and grow up, I thought him to be insane and promptly found other friends.

New friends and more attempts to enjoy and control my drinking. And, of course, day after day I woke to find only that I had done it again. For the last 5 years of my drinking, I woke up feeling miserable and full of despair and regret. Over and over, I promised to never drink

again. I knew that I was an alcoholic, that this was no longer “normal” drinking, and that I was addicted to alcohol. I knew with every part of my being that I was trapped in alcohol. Those mornings I would drive to work in various stages of hangovers and in the depths of my despair. I was convinced that I could and would never drink again. For all those hours of my day I was planning on not drinking today, only to automatically have my car pull into the liquor store after work.

Drinking even as I drove home and getting home only to continue to my drinking into oblivion. Sometimes I was drinking with enough awareness to acknowledge that somehow, against all my hopes, I had started drinking once again. I really don’t even know how, but I would always end up back in the bottle. That’s what my alcoholism looked like. I lived that despair and hopelessness for several years. I knew that I was an alcoholic, but I told myself that at least I was a functional alcoholic…or so I thought. I do remember in the end that I truly knew that I was an alcoholic, but I was terrified of admitting it to anyone else. I knew from everything that I had heard of alcoholism that it is incurable. If I admitted, if I let anyone know, my friends, family - I would never be able to drink again. The problem was that I believed I could never live without alcohol.

Sometimes, when I was desperate enough to really consider my options, I would get to that last point where I could not imagine any life worth living without my old friend alcohol. No treatment, no program, no solution that required complete removal of alcohol from my life seemed survivable. My only solution to my life, my despair, was King Alcohol and it was killing me. Slowly killing me, and dragging my loved ones, everything, everyone I cared about down with me into an alcoholic death. But, one day God intervened and did for me what I could not do for myself.

I was forced to walk into my first A.A. meeting which is where I found many people easily admitted they were alcoholics. They told of the untreated alcoholic life and of the despair getting to A.A. themselves. I heard in this first meeting the honest surrender, the ready admission of alcoholism, the powerlessness over alcohol and the unmanageability of life - but I also heard the solution. At last I found the possibility of a life without alcohol that was filled with friendship, support, laughter, strength and a Power.

I admitted that day (out loud) to these alcoholics that I too was an alcoholic. That simple and humble admission finally opened the door to our program of recovery. A.A. and our Twelve Steps have saved my life and blessed the lives of my family. It begins with that one admission: I am an Alcoholic.

7075-B Mission Gorge Road San Diego, CA 92120-2454

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San Diego

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7075-B Mission Gorge Road San Diego, CA 92120-2454

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San Diego

CA

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