|
AA®
Guidelines
The
Fellowships of Alcoholics Anonymous and the AI-Anon Family Groups have a unique
relationship. They are naturally drawn together by their close ties. And yet the
Twelve Traditions, the General Service Boards, and the General Service
Conferences of both Fellowships suggest that each functions more effectively if
it remains "separate," cooperating but not affiliating with the other. Each
Fellowship has always had its own General Service Board, General Service Office,
Conference, publishing company, and directory. Each has established its own
policies and maintained its own services. This separate functioning has served
both A.A. and AI-Anon Family Groups well. A.A.'s policy of "cooperation but
not affiliation" was established as long ago as the early 1950s, and both
AI-Anon and A.A. recognized at that time the importance of maintaining separate
Fellowships. However,
from time to time, questions come to both A.A. and AI-Anon General Service
Offices indicating confusion as to how A.A. and AI-Anon may best cooperate in
the groups, intergroups or central offices, and area and regional conventions
and get-togethers. A.A.
and AI-Anon have shared on these questions, and A.A.'s General Service
Conference approved the following suggested guidelines: Question:
Should a group be affiliated with both A.A. and AI-Anon? Answer:
As
the primary purpose of the A.A. group is to help the sick alcoholic to recover
and the primary purpose of the AI-Anon Family Group is to help the AI-Anon to
live with herself or himself, as well as with the alcoholic, it is suggested
they not be combined, but remain separate groups. This enables both Fellowships
to function within their Twelve Traditions and to carry their messages more
effectively. Thus, the group name, the officers, and the meeting should be
either A.A. or AI-Anon, but not both. "The A.A. Group" pamphlet
suggests, "Whether open or closed, A.A. group meetings are conducted by
A.A. members. At open meetings, non-A.A.s may be invited to share, depending
upon the conscience of the group." Naturally, all are welcome to open
meetings of both A.A. and AI-Anon groups. Question:
Should "family groups" be listed in A.A. directories? "After
discussion, the Conference reaffirmed A.A. group policy that only those with a
desire to stop drinking may be members of A.A. groups; only A.A. members are
eligible to be officers of A.A. groups; nonalcoholics are welcome at open
meetings of A.A. It is suggested that the word 'family' not be used in the name
of an A.A. group; if A.A.s and their nonalcoholic mates wish to meet together on
a regular basis, it is suggested they consider these gatherings 'meetings' and
not A.A. groups. Listing in A.A. directories: It was the sense of the meeting
that the family groups should not be listed under the family group name in the
directories." Question:
Should A.A. and AI-Anon
have combined central (or intergroup) services and offices? Answer:
Experience
and the Twelve Traditions of A.A. and AI-Anon suggest that each Fellowship will
function more effectively if each retains separate committees, staffs, and
facilities for handling telephone calls, as well as separate telephone answering
services, intergroup activities, bulletins, meeting lists, and Twelfth Step
services of all types. Also, that the members involved in each service committee
or office be A.A. members, if an A.A. facility, and AI-Anon, if an AI-Anon
facility. Answer:
In
accordance with the Twelve Traditions, a convention would be either A.A. or AI-Anon-not
both. However, most A.A. convention committees invite AI-Anon to participate by
planning its own program, and the committee arranges for facilities for the AI-Anon
meetings. Question:
When AI-Anon
participates in an A.A. convention, what is the financial relationship between
the two Fellowships? Answer: The relationship and the financial arrangements
usually follow one of two patterns: When an
A.A. convention committee invites AI-Anon to participate with its own program,
A.A. may pay all expenses (for meeting rooms, coffee, etc.) and keep all income
from registrations etc., in a single fund used to pay all convention bills,
after which any excess income reverts back to A.A. Alternatively,
AI-Anon may have a separate registration and pay its own direct expenses, plus a
proportionate share of common expenses of the convention. AI-Anon, in this case,
receives its own share of the registration income and also shares in any losses
that may be incurred. Question:
Should an A.A. convention committee make a contribution to AI-Anon from the
financial profits of the convention? Answer: In accordance with the self-support Traditions of
both Fellowships and to abide by the concept of "cooperation but not
affiliation," it is suggested that A.A. should not make gifts or
contributions to AI-Anon. By the same token, A.A. should not accept
contributions from AI-Anon. If
separate registrations have been kept for both A.A. and AI-Anon members,
however, income may be easily assigned. A.A.'s
Debt of Gratitude to Al-Anon The following resolution of gratitude to the Fellowship of the AI-Anon Family Groups was unanimously approved by The
delegates of this, the 19th General Service Conference of Alcoholics Anonymous,
meeting in official session in New York City, this 25th day of April, 1969, do
hereby declare: WHEREAS,
it is the desire of this Conference to confirm the relationship between
Alcoholics Anonymous and the AI-Anon Family Groups, and WHEREAS,
it is the further desire of this Conference to acknowledge A.A.'s debt of
gratitude to the AI-Anon Family Groups, therefore, BE
IT RESOLVED, that Alcoholics Anonymous recognizes the special relationship which
it enjoys with the AI-Anon Family Groups, a separate but similar fellowship. And
be it further resolved that Alcoholics Anonymous wishes to recognize, and hereby
does recognize, the great contribution which the
AA®
Guidelines
AA Answering Services STARTING AN ANSWERING SERVICE Sometimes an
answering service has been started by one A.A. group or even by one or two
members who felt the need for such a service. As the service begins to fill the
need and as A.A. grows locally, other groups nearby become interested and join
in the support of the answering service. General service district committees
sometimes are responsible for starting an answering service. If possible, before
making such a decision, the group conscience of all groups involved should be
consulted, in order to ensure both financial support and a supply of volunteers
to take Twelfth Step calls. A Few Suggestions: Getting
Started 1. Check with your
area, district and nearby central or intergroup office to make sure this service
is not duplicating an already existing A.A. service. Volunteer
Support of A.A. Members 1. Consider the
number of A.A. people available to answer Twelfth Step calls. HOW
ARE ANSWERING SERVICES FUNDED? When several groups
get together and decide to contract a commercial answering service, the usual
experience seems to be that each group contributes according to its own group
conscience. In some cases, each group is charged exactly the same amount. In a
few instances, groups are charged for the answering service on the basis of
group size. When district committees are responsible, groups contribute to the
district committee and the committee pays the bills. Financing 1. Carefully estimate
how much money will be needed and how much will be available. WHO IS RESPONSIBLE
FOR THE ANSWERING SERVICE? Sharing on this
question varies: one or two members who may be responsible; an answering service
committee may handle matters; or the answering service may be the responsibility
of the district general service committee. WHO ANSWERS THE PHONES-A.A. MEMBERS OR COMMERCIAL ANSWERING SERVICE PERSONNEL? Many use a commercial
service, though some answering services rely on A.A. members exclusively.
Following is a list of the methods for handling Twelfth Step calls: 1. The commercial
answering service has a list of members who are available for Twelfth Step
calls. After taking the first name and phone number of the caller, the answering
service reaches an A.A. member, who then calls the alcoholic seeking help. One answering service
shared the following information which might be helpful to those who plan to use
a commercial answering service and want to explain their needs to its personnel. When an alcoholic calls for help... 1. Answer by saying,
'A.A. answering service.' Problems or questions
should be referred to this committee. This committee will keep the commercial
service informed of meeting changes, special events, and any other items that
A.A. members might inquire about. PROBLEMS IN FUNDING
AND ADMINISTRATION A SAMPLING OF SOME OF THE EXPERIENCES THAT WERE SHARED
WITH US 'We asked for a show
of hands at just one meeting, and seven people indicated they had come to A.A.
through the answering service. Is it worth it? We should say it is!' 'We are pleased with
our answering service. We have 'twelfth-stepped' the operators, and they are
gracious and sympathetic. We feel fortunate and grateful.' 'From the time our
service was started, the attendance at our meetings increased tremendously. We
have some volunteers who started with our answering service seven years ago and
are still at it, on a rotating basis.'
AA®
Guidelines
Archives PURPOSE Whenever a society or civilization perishes there is always one condition present; they forgot where they came fromLike any other A.A. service, the primary purpose of those involved in archival work is to carry the message of Alcoholics Anonymous. Archives service work is more than mere custodial activity; it is the means by which we collect, preserve and share the rich and meaningful heritage of our Fellowship. It is by the collection and sharing of these important historical elements that our collective gratitude for Alcoholics Anonymous is deepened. A.A. members have a responsibility to gather and take good care of the Fellowship's historical documents and memorabilia. Correspondence, records, photographs, newspaper and magazine articles from the past need to be collected, preserved and made available for the guidance and research of A.A. members and others (researchers, historians, and scholars from various disciplines) -- for now and for the generations to come. In the mid-1990's, the trustees' Archives Committee developed and approved a mission statement applicable to the Archives of the General Service Office of Alcoholics Anonymous, whih reads as follows: Pursuant to A.A.'s primary purpose fo maintaining our sobriety and helping other alcoholics to achieve recovery, the Archives of Alcoholics Anonymous adopts the following mission statement: To receive, classify and index all relevant material, including but not limited to, administrative files and records, correspondence, and literary and artifactual works considered to have historical import to Alcoholics Anonymous. To hod and preserve such material, making access possible, as determined by the present archivist in consultation with the Archives committee, to members of Alcoholics Anonymous, and those of the public who may have a valid need to review said material, such access to be provided only during business hours and with a mindful view toward the anonymity of our members. GETTING STARTED One of the best ways to get started in archival service work is to obtain a copy of the "Handbook for Setting up an Alcoholics Anonymous Archival Repository," available from the G.S.O. Archives. The handbook contains helpful information gathered from shared experience over many years. It points out that the idea of setting up an archives in a specific geographic area most often occurs to someone who has been in A.A. for a while, or to several oldtimers who realize the need to create local or area archival centers, begining with a project to collect material for an area history. Often, after a need for an archives has been identified, the idea is brought to the area or state committee or local central office/intergroup committee, as applicable, for wider discussion. Following sharing and reaching a group conscience, it may then be agreed upon to create an Archives committee responsible to the area or state committee or central office/intergroup committee. Archives committees usually include A.A. members knowledgeable about the early history, who have sources for obtaining historical A.A. material. THE ROLE OF THE ARCHIVES COMMITTEE The Archives committee is responsible for establishing policies, budgets and procedures. It undertakes and maintains final responsibility and authority for the use of the archives, and exercises its group conscience in regard to matters of general policy. In all of its actions, the Archives committee needs to be mindful of and guided by A.A.'s primary purpose. Thus, if non-A.A. friends are asked to serve on the committee, which is possible because of interest and special knowledge or expertise, they ought to be people who are thoroughly familiar with our primary purpose, as well as all or our A.A. Traditions. One of the most important functions of the Archives committee is to establish creative parameters for the selection of material to be collected. These parameters will guide the archivist in gathering material of historical significance and will reduce the time and space of preserving random bits and pieces of dubious value. THE ROLE OF THE ARCHIVIST The Archives committee may decide, as its first act, to select a member to serve as a nonrotating archivist, so that there will be a focal person for the collection. From shared experience we know that it takes a considerable amount of time to become familiar with a collection of historical information. Therefore, it is not recommended that the archivist rotate frequently. The committee maintains final responsibility and authority for the uses of the archives, as well as all other mattes of policy, through its group conscience. The archivist is the person responsible for the collection, the documents and artifactual items. He or she takes care of and maintains the physical integrity of the collection, and also develops finding aids, so as to add to the collection. The archivist is also responsible for ensuring the protection of the anonymity of members, and the confidentiality of the A.A. records. It is helpful and desirable that the archivist take at least an introductory course in archival science or or library science, and have a membership in a local archivists organization. The function of the archivist can be considered therefore to be twofold: primarily, a custodial responsibility for assuring the physical integrity of the collection and its availability to persons with a valid reason for study; and also a parallel and critical role of data collector. It is in this latter capacity that service can be rendered to Bill W.'s urging that archives are needed "so that myth doesn't prevail over fact." In a real sense then, A.A. archivists are "keepers of the past." FINANCING THE ARCHIVES In keeping with Tradition Seven, the archives ought to be fully self-supporting, declining outside contributions. It is better when funding for the archives is derived from an overall budget of the A.A. entity it serves, rather than through separate A.A. contributions. In this way, archival activity can better reflect the support of the membership, and maintain the perspective of the entire range of Twelfth-Step activity. HOUSING THE ARCHIVES Over the years it has become clear that, whenever possible, an archives ought to be housed in rented space, rather than in an individual A.A. member's home. Renting space for the archives eliminates both any appearance of there being a "private collection," and any problems that might arise later regarding issues of ownership following the death or departure of a custodian. Additionally, with rented space, displays of all general material can be made available on a regularly scheduled basis. DEVELOPING A COLLECTION Books, pamphlets, world directories, local meeting lists, G.S.O. bulletins, Conference Reports, International Convention booklets, newsletters, area and district minutes, written histories, photographs and audiotapes all serve as the foundation of a collection. The archivist might also arrange to audiotape local oldtimers, thus adding historical oral histories to the collection. Local A.A. historical material, such as letters, bulletins and photographs, need to be sought out and accumulated in an ongoing manner from oldtimers, past delegates, various committee members and so on. It is important to note that whenever a donation is made to an archives, written documentation be recorded indicating that the material has been presented to the archives (rather than to an archivist) to avoid any misunderstanding later on regarding ownership of the donation. The archivist can contact other local archives for ideas by asking the G.S.O. archivist to forward the list of those archives who have indicated a willingness to exchange information. In addition, archives committees can participate in and publicize local history-gathering efforts, making presentations, and offering table displays at many A.A. events, such as oldtimer meetings, conventions, roundups. ARCHIVAL PROCEDURES As soon as an item is received in the archives, it should be added to the inventory list. Next, the conservation and preservation needs of the collection should be evaluated and followed up on. As a general rule, any action on a document or item that is not reversible should never be performed. For example, scotch tape or lamination ought never to be used. Removal of tape, repair, deacidification and encapsulation are some of the steps necessary to protect the integrity of a document. Consult the "Handbook for Setting up an Alcoholics Anonymous Archival Repository" for some conservation and preservation procedures, as well as other resources listed at the bottom of these Guidelines. Sometimes it may be necessary to seek outside professional help to ensure the integrity of an item. Once prepared, as archival item should then be categorically classified. The G.S.O. Archives has the following classifications: "Open to all," "Open to A.A. members," "Open with the approval of the Archives committee" and "Closed at this time." This final classification means that it is not available to anyone--sometimes donors request that documents remain sealed for a certain period of time to come. The item should then be entered into a retrieval system, either manual or computerized, in order to provide readily accessed information to researchers. Archival items are indexed by record groups or series, rather than by item. RESEARCH IN THE ARCHIVES Researchers working in the archives ought to be informed that they will be expected to strictly adhere to our Anonymity Traditions--only first names and last initials of A.A. members may be used by them. Further, the trustees' Archives Committee has recommended that there be no photocopying of private correspondence. This recommendation is also designed to assure anonymity protection, and to maintain the physical integrity of archival documents. In addition to the preservation of the anonymity of the author of the correspondence, the writer's private opinions and observations, some of which might be highly controversial, must be treated with extreme delicacy. It might be remembered that members share these documents with a trust and expectation that their remarks will be held in confidence. No one has an intrinsic right to view another's private correspondence at will; it is essential that the archivist's chief concern of assuring this spiritual wholeness of the collection be understood and supported. AVAILABLE ARCHIVAL ITEMS The following items, available from G.S.O. through the Catalog/Order Form, might appeal to those with an historic interest: A.A. Comes of Age; "Pass It On;" Dr. Bob and the Good Oldtimers; "Voices of Our Co-founders," an audiotape cassette of five talks given by Bill and Dr. Bob; "Markings on the Journey," a filmstrip or videotape of A.A. history; and two Scrapbooks, collections of compelling newspaper articles on early A.A. (1939-1942) and (1943). In addition, the following items may be ordered directly from G.S.O. Archives: a photocopy of a prepublication manuscript of Alcoholics Anonymous; and a set of 8"x10" b&w photographs of places and individuals involved in the establishment of A.A. in its formative years. REFERENCES For a more detailed discussion of archival matters, please review the "Handbook for Setting up an Alcoholics Anonymous Archival Repository," available directly from the G.S.O. Archives. The handbook contains a bibliography of basic professional literature, and a list of archival supply companies. The Society of American Archivists (SAA) is a good resource to contact. They have published seven books in their "Archival Fundamentals" series--especially helpful is Preserving Archives and Manuscripts. SAA also offers a literature catalog, and may be reached at: Society of American Archivists, 600 S. Federal, Suite 504, Chicago, IL 6065. Telephone: 1-312-922-0140.
AA®
Guidelines
Correctional Facilities Committee
From G.S.O., Box 459, Grand Central Station, New York, NY 10163 A.A.
Guidelines are compiled
from the shared experience of A.A. members in the various areas. They also
reflect guidance given through the Twelve Traditions and the General Service
Conference (U.S. and Canada). In keeping with our Tradition of autonomy,
except in matters affecting other groups or A.A. as a whole, most decisions
are made by the group conscience of the members involved. The purpose of these
guidelines is to assist in reaching an informed group conscience. HOW A.A.s CARRY THE MESSAGE TO The
material in these Guidelines has come from the experience and "growing
pains" of A.A. correctional facilities committees. We are privileged to
share it with A.A.s throughout the United States and Canada who are carrying
our message behind the walls. PURPOSE A
correctional facilities committee may function within the structure of a
General Service Conference area committee or a central office (intergroup). In
A.A.'s early years, prison Twelfth Step work was usually done by an individual
group or an individual member. As A.A. has grown, however, it seems that a
committee formed within the A.A. service structure works more effectively. Prior
to 1977, services to correctional and treatment facilities were provided
under the umbrella of the Institutions Committee. Because of rapid growth, the
1977 General Service Conference voted to dissolve its Institutions Committee
and two new committees, one on correctional facilities and one on treatment
facilities, were formed. This division was created to provide better service
to groups and meetings in both kinds of facilities. HOW TO GET STARTED Perhaps
the first step would be to contact your General Service Area Committee or
local intergroup (central office), and if there is an existing correctional
facilities committee, they will connect you to the committee chairperson.
Local A.A. groups and members should be given the opportunity of sharing in
and doing correctional facility Twelfth Step work. It has proved a good idea
to have members from many groups serve on this committee. If a correctional
facility committee does not exist in your area, then you may wish to form a
new The
Correctional Facilities Workbook is a good basic tool for those involved in
correctional work. It contains information on how to do correctional
facilities work, background information, guide letters, and a selection of
pamphlets, leaflets, etc. If your area already has a functioning committee,
the workbook may provide new ideas or new ways of implementing old ideas. If
your committee is just getting off the ground, the workbook will help you find
effective ways of getting organized. RELATIONSHIP TO A.A. IN THE AREA OR DISTRICT As
in all A.A. activity, communication of needs and progress is al-important.
Such communication can be maintained through group representatives at
intergroup/central office or general service area meetings, through area or
intergroup newsletters, and by direct contact by committee members at regular
A.A. meetings. Communication
also takes place at special dinners where correctional facilities committees
invite others to attend; regular correctional facilities workshops at area
conferences (in a few areas, inmates are allowed to attend these conferences
with their group advisers) and during monthly meetings of these committees
(rotated within an area) to which all A.A.s are invited. BASIC FUNCTIONS OF C.F.
COMMITTEES Correctional
facility committees, when allowed to do so, take regular A.A. meetings into
facilities within their area. It encourages "outside" group
participation in this kind of Twelfth Step work. In some areas, each group has a
group correctional facilities representative. It provides a liaison between the
correctional facilities groups and meetings and groups on the outside, and also
coordinates prerelease contact. The
relationship with prison authorities is discussed in the workbook to ensure a
positive reciprocal working relationship with administrators and staff. One such
suggestion is that A.A.s in this Twelfth Step work seek to understand, respect,
and adhere to all correctional facilities regulations. The
workbook also goes into detail about prison A.A. meetings. It suggests different
ways to shoulder responsibility for meetings and speakers. Most
committees find that adequate literature supplies are essential in a
correctional facility group or meeting. Supplies are financed and obtained in
several ways: Donated by local intergroup or general service committee; donated
by members of the committee; purchased with individual contributions; provided
by groups through their correctional facilities representatives. Special
funds: Buck of the Month Club, where members contribute, and funds are used for
correctional facilities literature; special meetings or dinners, at which a
collection is taken; special cans at regular meetings, marked "For
Correctional Facilities Literature." NOTE: Correctional Facilities Discount Packages are
available from G.S.O. SPONSORSHIP Experience
shows that even though an inmate may have been participating in a group or
meeting in a correctional facility, there is anxiety about the transition to a
regular A.A. group on the outside. With the constant reminder that A.A. has only
sobriety to offer, many committees do try to provide some additional personal
contact, so this transition period can be made easier. Pre-parole
activity is encouraged in some areas, and many committees work closely
with parole officers. Sometimes,
inmates are allowed to attend outside meetings in advance of their parole.
Through continual contact with parole officers, the committee can be given vital
statistics on all parolees coming into and leaving the area. The parolees are
then contacted immediately on arrival, and those going elsewhere are given
contacts at their destinations through the A.A. directories. The
contact chairperson or group sponsor meets the inmate on release. Sponsorship
being the personal thing that it is, many areas have found it helpful to have
inmates select their own sponsors once contact with the outside has been made.
The initial contacts do not necessarily continue as sponsors, but do serve as a
vital link between the prison and the outside A.A. group. RELATIONSHIP TO AL-ANON Many
areas report it is extremely helpful to cooperate with AI-Anon Family Groups, in
order that the family of the inmate may gain a better understanding of our
Fellowship. For information, contact AI-Anon Family Groups, P.O. Box 862,
Midtown Station, New York, NY 10018-0862. RELATIONSHIP TO G.S.O. G.S.O.
lists correctional facilities chairpersons and committee members (U.S. and
Canada). The people on this mailing list are sent the following material: 1. Box 459 -
every two months. CORRESPONDENCE SERVICE The
Corrections Correspondence Service, coordinated through G.S.O., offers an
opportunity for A.A.s on the "outside" to share experience, strength,
and hope through letters with fellow members. Helpful guidelines for this
service are provided to both "inside" and "outside" A.A.s.
You may write to G.S.O. to become a part of this service. Please
keep in touch with us, so that we may share your activities in Box
4-5-9
and
add your experience to our files, to help others who are involved in this
rewarding area of service.
AA®
Guidelines
Clubs A.A. Guidelines are compiled from the shared experience of
A.A. members throughout the U.S. and Canada. They also reflect guidance given
through the Twelve Traditions and the General Service Conference. In keeping
with our Tradition of autonomy except in matters affecting other groups or A.A.
as a whole, most decisions are made by the group conscience of the members
involved. The purpose of these Guidelines is to assist in reaching an informed
group conscience. From A.A.'s beginning, the group has been the mainspring
in carrying out the primary purpose of A.A.- 'to carry its message to the
alcoholic who still suffers." It is in the group that A.A.s recover, learn
to live together in unity, and grow spiritually through service. Thus, A.A.
members around the world zealously protect the group, because it is the very
core of our sober lives today‑ the place where we live and work together,
ever‑mindful of our common welfare. The A.A. group is A.A., not only to members, but also to
our non-A.A. friends. Thus, any other service entity that comes into existence
should conduct its affairs in such a way that it will enhance the effectiveness
of the A.A. group, so that the message will continue to be carried and each A.A.
will have the opportunities for service that come from group activities. GROWTH
OF CLUBS There have always been A.A.s who have sought a place to go for coffee and conversation; a spot where members could gather for lunch; a place where they could gather socially on weekends and holidays. They want an A.A. social life, too, which they may find in a club. In 1947, Bill W. wrote a Grapevine article on clubs that
became part of our pamphlet "A.A. Tradition-How It Developed." The
title carried the question, "Clubs in A.A.-Are They With Us to Stay?"
Today, the answer to that question can be "yes." It is felt that the
success and the endurance of the club idea can be ascribed to the wisdom and
guidance expressed in Bill's article and to the willingness of club-minded
A.A.s to help make them work. These A.A.s make it possible for a club to
function effectively without detracting from A.A.'s source of recovery-the A.A.
group. Their experience tells them that a club can live in harmony with A.A. in
its area and can serve a very useful purpose for those who find a club helpful. The question then is: "How can those interested in
starting a club today have one that will be an asset to A.A. in the community,
as well as a pleasant place to get together for those who wish to use it?" OUT OF EXPERIENCE Here are some suggestions that come from the
experience of established clubs: • Even though a club is not "A.A.," many will
think of the club as A.A.-particularly the non-A.A.s in your
community. Therefore, it is suggested that you familiarize yourself with A.A.'s
Twelve Traditions-and guide club matters in keeping with these So, while it is suggestood that the
name of the club not involve A.A., the club members stick carefully to A.A.
Traditions and accept funds only from club members. Naturally, this includes any
kind of fund-raising that would involve the public. Dues and contributions
keep the club going-plus rent money from A.A. groups that hold their
meetings in the club. Frequently, there is a temptation to accept building
materials, furniture, and kitchen equipment and supplies from
well-meaning, civic minded non-A.A.s. Everyone in the club should be aware
of the value of the self-support Tradition-the one that has brought
A.A. along to this point completely independent and financially sound. • Define the purpose of your club and look for space that
will meet your needs. Determine the amount of money needed for such an
operation, and work out a budget that will cover getting started, rent,
utilities, custodial care, and any other known expenses. • Call a meeting of all interested A.A.s‑separate from
an A.A. group meeting. Inform them of your plans and the financial needs, and
determine how many dues-paying members you can count on from the beginning.
Also, ask the local group or groups whether they would be interested in renting
space from the club for A.A. meetings and, if so, how much rent they would
consider reasonable. Sometimes, charter members of the club are willing to pay a
little more in the beginning to help get the club off the ground. It seems
better to ask all to participate in this financing than for one or two people to
assume this responsibility. Let every A.A. participate who wants to- it is
more fun that way. WHAT
KIND OF DIRECTORS? • Now may also be the time to ask interested members present
to consider two more questions. Who will serve as club directors? What should
their qualifications be? Directors' responsibility involves the handling of the
business affairs of the club. They hold the lease and pay all bills for
maintenance of the property. Many clubs require approximately three years' A.A.
sobriety for directors and follow the suggestion that those serving as club
directors should not hold offices in the A.A. groups meeting in the club. This
avoids confusion. • At this meeting, you might also determine qualifications
for club membership. Most clubs require 30 days of A.A. sobriety, while a few
require 90 days. But new A.A.s may use the club facilities as guests until they
qualify for club membership. All dues-paying members would normally be
eligible to hold office and to vote at the club business meetings. • And now, if all goes as planned and it looks as if enough
A.A.s are interested to make financing possible, it is time to consult a lawyer
and have the club incorporated as a nonprofit business organization, under the
rules of the state or province in which it will function. This should not be a
very complicated or expensive project. Incorporation
is in accordance with Tradition Six, which
implies that property to be used by A.A.s should be separately incorporated and
managed, "lest problems of money, property, and prestige" divert A.A.
from its primary purpose: Needless to say, a club so incorporated should not
have "A.A." in its name. If bank loans are necessary, they should be
held by directors of the corporation, and payment should be made from club
funds. Caution is suggested in committing future A.A.s to sums and obligations
they may not wish to assume. It seems better to start small and enlarge as
growth and finances warrant. BUSINESS
DECISIONS • After the club is incorporated, a meeting of the directors
may be held to determine details of club operation. This might be followed by a
meeting of dues‑paying members to obtain approval of overall plans, club
rules, etc. All bylaws and rules can be amended, of course, as experience is
acquired. A.A. GROUPS MEETING IN CLUBS The A.A. group: The importance of each group's maintaining its
autonomy and identity separate from the club in which it meets cannot be
emphasized too strongly. The group's responsibility is to the suffering
alcoholic and to the Fellowship as a whole, not to the club. In order to fulfill
this primary purpose: • The group uses a name different from that of the club. CONFERENCE
RECOMMENDATIONS An expression of opinion on clubs for A.A. members followed a discussion on this subject at the 1967 General Service Conference. It states: "The discussion on clubs noted that, although there is no
such thing as an 'A.A. club,' many clubs have been identified with A.A. because
they are organized and directed by A.A. members and membership is limited to
A.A.'s. Clubs where meetings are held and which are maintained for Twelfth Step
as well as social purposes can avoid difficulties by abiding by A.A. Traditions.
They should not use the A.A. name, however, and should be organized apart from
A.A. They should not accept money from outside sources, being supported by
membership dues and individual contributions from A.A. members. The question of
a paid membership in A.A. does not arise, since A.A. meetings held in clubs are
open to all. The Conference voiced recognition of the fact that clubs should
operate within A.A. Traditions and abide by them to the fullest." Further guidance was given to G.S.O. by the 1972 General
Service Conference, which advised that G.S.O. no longer accept contributions
from clubs. This decision was based on returns from a questionnaire sent
to all clubs. The answers indicated that the difference in club operating
procedures was too great to enable G.S.O. to decide whether or not money
received from a particular club was contributed by A.A. members only. (Of
course, G.S.O. does accept contributions from A.A. groups that meet on club
premises.) In 1981, the General Service Conference recommended "that
clubs not receive the A.A. literature discount." By reserving the discount
privilege for A.A. groups and their central/intergroup offices, the Conference
once more indicated the status of clubs as separate organizations‑the way
they function best. In 1989, the General Service Conference recommended to discontinue listing clubs in A.A. Directories. However, groups that meet in clubs will continue to be listed in the Directories.
AA®
Guidelines Conferences and Conventions A.A. Guidelines
are compiled from the shared experience of A.A. members in the various areas.
They also reflect guidance given through the Twelve Traditions and the General
Service Conference (U.S. and Canada). In keeping with our Tradition of autonomy,
except in matters affecting other groups or A.A. as a whole, most decisions are
made by the group conscience of the members involved. The purpose of these
guidelines is to assist in reaching an informed group conscience. HOW
A.A.s MAKE THEIR GET-TOGETHERS
ENJOYABLE AS WELL AS EFFECTIVE WHY HAVE AN A.A.
CONVENTION? It's clear that A.A. get-togethers beyond the group have
become an established part of A.A. life. The calendar in any Box 4-5-9 or in the
Grapevine shows how many conventions, conferences, and banquets are being held
by A.A.s throughout the world. What makes an A.A. convention click for its participants? It's
probably not style or form that matters so much as the spirit and feeling behind
it. As one member puts it, the best A.A. convention is "just a darned good
A.A. meeting blown up big." Just watch enthusiastic members at any A.A.
convention and you'll get what he means. The atmosphere alone is worth the trip.
Here you'll find fellowship, laughter, warmth, and understanding-"heaped
up, pressed down, and running over." An A.A. convention is almost any A.A. get‑together
beyond the group‑meeting level. These range from special meetings of one
evening's duration to longer events-area, statewide, or regional weekend
conventions. They will, most likely, be one of the following: 1 The special open meeting. This kind of
gathering can serve useful purposes. It will, of course, bring together the A.A.
members in a city or area. But it also provides a good opportunity to invite
interested friends of A.A. to the meeting. Certainly, it's proper on such
occasions to send special invitations to members of the clergy, doctors,
lawyers, social workers, public health officials, and others who may have a
special interest in A.A. 2 The one-day session. This might include
several general meetings throughout the day. For a start, there's a
"welcome" meeting in the morning, followed by other activities. There
may be another open meeting in the afternoon, while the main open meeting with
the featured speaker is saved for the windup meeting in the evening. If the
convention is held in a school, civic hall, or other building with additional
rooms, it's likely that the program for a one‑day session can also include
A.A. workshops and panels, service meetings, assemblies, and closed meetings. 3 The banquet. Many intergroups
or central offices now sponsor annual banquets, often to help support their
office operations. Some groups and areas also have banquets (or informal buffet
and potluck dinners) as anniversary or gratitude observances. These are often
held on a Saturday night or Sunday afternoon, sometimes in conjunction with a
larger A.A. convention. The banquet often features an after-dinner speaker or
some other program of interest to A.A. members. 4 The weekend convention. This
is an ideal form for a state, provincial, or regional convention. Members often
arrive for an opening meeting session or "coffee & conversation"
on Friday evening. Additional meetings and workshops‑as well as other
activities‑continue through Saturday and even into Sunday afternoon. The
convention may include a banquet, luncheons, special breakfasts,
Saturday‑night dancing and entertainment, and perhaps a spiritual meeting
on Sunday morning. THE CONVENTION BEGINS WITH A PLANNING COMMITTEE Once a get-together has been scheduled, it needs a planning
committee. The work in setting up a convention is too much for one person. He or
she will need at least a dozen assistants, frequently more. One method of forming the committee is simply to appoint a
general chairperson who then completes the committee by finding able volunteers
to chair the various committees. Another method-popular when a number of groups sponsor a convention-is to send a committee representative from each group. Once in session, representatives can elect a chairperson and receive assignments to specific committees. In some cases, the convention may be the responsibility of the
general service committee from the area. In others, the convention committee may
be organized separately. Either method works well if it corresponds to the
wishes of the A.A. groups in the area. In some areas, there is a permanent
convention committee, set up within the area committee, so that valuable
experience of convention planning can be carried over from one year to the next.
Membership on such a committee is, of course, on a rotation basis, so that new
members are added yearly, but a proportion of experienced convention planners is
retained at any given time. Once assembled, the convention committee is usually organized
along functional lines, with each chairperson responsible for a phase of the
planning. Here' s how a typical committee might be arranged: 1 Chairperson (assisted
by one or two co-chairpersons) oversees the entire convention; coordinates the
work of subcommittee chairpersons; keeps informed on the progress of all the
arrangements; calls committee meetings when needed. 2 Secretary keeps
all written records, including minutes of the committee meetings; also sends out
notices of committee meetings and other mailings to committee members. 3 Treasurer is,
of course, responsible for all money, including revenues from registration and
banquet tickets; pays all bills; usually advises the chairperson on cash supply
and income flow as well as rate of expenditures. (Experience indicates it's best if the treasurer is a
person with four or more years' sobriety and some solid business experience.
Each check usually calls for two signatures.) Most convention committees require
a complete report from the treasurer within a month or two of the convention.
Some committees have the report audited as a further safeguard for convention
funds. 4 Program
Chairperson. Since this is often a very complex job, its objectives are
discussed under the separate heading "What Makes a Good Convention
Program?" This person usually sends invitations to speakers and panel
members who chair various meetings. 5 Ticket
Chairperson supervises the printing and distribution of all tickets, giving
special attention to the task of bringing in the collections. 6 Public
Information Chairperson has the sensitive task of encouraging a large
attendance without abandoning A.A.'s principle of "attraction rather than
promotion." Publicity efforts can be kept within the dignity and spirit of
A.A. through the following means: a. Preparation and distribution of material about the
program, speakers, and time and location of the convention (perhaps including
map of area, if necessary). It's advisable for the convention committee to rent
a post office box and use that on all mailings, with no reference to A.A. on
return addresses. The convention publicity material should also be sent to
the press, radio, and TV outlets in the immediate area. (The Public Information
Workbook, available from G.S.O., gives useful advice on approaching the media.) b. Regular fliers about the convention are usually mailed
monthly to all groups in the area, with the first mailing beginning about six
months before the convention date. c. Dates and location of the convention, with a mailing
address for information or registration, should be sent (three months in
advance) to the A.A. Grapevine and to Box
4-5-9,
to be published in their calendars. The GV lists only area, regional,
state, or provincial events of more than one day's duration; send notices to Box
1980, New York, NY 10163. For Box 4-5-9, send notices to Box 459, Grand Central Station, New York,
NY 10163. 7 Entertainment
Chairperson will arrange for the convention dances and floor show if there
is one. The chairperson hires the band and other performers (or arranges for
taped or recorded music). At some conventions, the local A.A.s provide
entertainment by putting on a play about A.A. Traditions (for script, write to
G.S.O.), or putting together choruses and variety shows. This chairperson might
also arrange to make sightseeing available for conventioneers. 8 Hospitality
Chairperson serves as convention host, organizing a committee that will
greet out-of-town guests, arrange transportation for them when necessary, and
see to any other needs they might have while attending the convention. Usually
members of the hospitality committee wear special identification badges and are
available to answer questions and provide assistance to conventioneers. 9 Display and
Literature Chairperson is responsible for displays and posters and for
having A.A. literature available for all. G.S.O. provides a literature display
to all conferences and conventions. (See "Displays") 10 Taping Chairperson
is responsible for negotiating with the individual or company who will be
taping the convention. That individual will be directly responsible to the
convention chairperson (see Taping Guidelines). PAYING THE BILLS How are the costs of a convention covered and what can be done
to make sure that the venture won't go deep in the red? Some conventions may
involve spending several thousand dollars, so the committee must have a fair
picture of the financial arrangements long before the convention opens. There's
no substitute for common sense here; the committee must take a businesslike
approach to finances and keep expenditures somewhere within a conservative
estimate of anticipated revenues. As for financing the convention, several sound
methods seem to be in general use: 1 The Underwriting
Method. The groups in the area, perhaps through their representatives on the
convention committee, agree to underwrite the complete costs of the event. Since
the registration fees can be established at a level sufficient to cover the
total costs, this should result in no actual out-of-pocket costs to groups. It's
a good idea, though, to put the tickets on sale well in advance of the
convention and to know where the break-even point lies. Registration fees cover
costs for special events. 2 The Convention Fund. In
some areas, the groups make year round contributions to a convention fund. Then,
there is no registration fee, except for out-of-state visitors. One method of covering deficits, provided it is done with tact
and sufficient explanation, is to take up a special collection at the
convention. But if the groups have already been consulted and have agreed to
underwrite the convention, making up the deficit is their ultimate
responsibility. Most conventions, however, make a profit. What's to be done
with these surplus funds? In most cases, part of the surplus is held in trust
for next year's convention. Then the committee uses the balance to help support
local service offices or the General Service Office. In accordance with our
Seventh Tradition, only funds from A.A. members attending the event should be
contributed to support A.A. activities. WHAT MAKES A GOOD
CONVENTION PROGRAM? One A.A. member
shared his opinion that the program wasn't really the most important thing at a
convention. He looks for something in addition the joys of meeting new and old
friends, working together for our common good, and sharing our experience,
strength and hope with each other. He goes on to say that there can also be a letdown feeling
when we leave a convention if the program hasn't been imaginative and inspiring.
This takes careful thought well in advance of the convention date. A well-balanced
program might include: 1 The Convention Theme.
Often, it's easier to plan the overall program by organizing it around a
simple theme. Such a theme might be "Unity," "We Came to Believe
. . .," "First Things First," or a similar A.A. saying or topic.
This does not mean that the entire program must be devoted to the theme idea; it
does, however, serve as a reminder that an A.A. convention advances the common
purpose of Alcoholics Anonymous. 2 Main Features-Banquets,
Open Meetings, etc. In planning a convention, program chairpersons usually
schedule several large open meetings throughout the event, although not
necessarily in immediate succession. A Saturday-night banquet may also serve as
an open meeting, with a speaker following the dinner. The large open meeting brings unity to the convention and
gives the opportunity for presenting certain matters‑such as the selection
of the next year's convention site‑before the entire assembly of A.A.s
attending. But too many open meetings in any single convention can be tiresome;
as a general rule, three or four such meetings are sufficient in a weekend
convention. 3 Panels. Many
program chairpersons schedule workshops and panel sessions to provide suitable
convention activity without overloading the program with open meetings. Workshops and panels may take a variety of forms; one popular
arrangement is to set up a panel with three speakers and a chairperson. Each
speaker may be assigned a topic and a time limit. The session may be followed by
a short question-and-answer period, if time allows. On the subject of panels, experience has shown that topics
such as "How the General Service Office Works" or "Why
G.S.O.?" attract only a small audience and therefore do not carry the
message in a satisfactory fashion. G.S.O. staff members can best be used as
speakers on regular panels-where their familiarity with A.A. worldwide can add
an extra dimension to the presentation. Any one of the trustees (especially your own regional trustee)
would be invaluable on such topics as "A.A. and Responsibility." They
are in a crossroads position where they are aware of our Fellowship-particularly
on the public level-and also have an overall perspective on our purposes,
strengths, and weaknesses. They can be of great value in helping us learn more
about worldwide A.A. Don't forget your own G.S.R.s, committee members, and
delegates. From their work in carrying the message outside their own groups,
they'll have many ideas on such subjects as "Is A.A. Changing?," "A.A.
at Work, Then and Now." Many other A.A.s
oldtimers and not-so-oldtimers-also have worthwhile information and
thoughts on such subjects. Here are some suggested topics appropriate for workshops and
panels: Correctional Facilities Treatment Facilities Public Information Cooperation With the Professional
Community Sponsorship Service G.S.R.s Twelve Traditions Twelve Concepts Intergroups and Central Offices A.A. Grapevine (Some program committees select
phrases from A.A. literature as workshop or panel topics.) "Balance" and "flow" are two key words in
the planning of a convention program, particularly in setting up the panels.
It's important that the program flow smoothly, with one feature following
another in a pleasant, logical series. It's also important that the panel topics
and participants be balanced, so as not to give the audience too much of any one
subject, too many speakers from one area, or too many panel participants of
similar experience and viewpoint. One effective way to insure maximum interest and participation in the convention is to farm out each meeting, workshop, or panel to a different group or area within the convention territory. Thus, the groups themselves plan and organize the meetings, always working closely with the general program chairperson to assure balance. 4 Care of Speakers. Most
conventions feature speakers from out of town, sometimes A.A. members living a
thousand miles or more from the convention site. This means that program
chairpersons have a responsibility to see that certain important matters are
properly handled on the speakers' behalf: a. Expenses. It
should be clear, when the speakers are booked, what terms are being made for
expenses. Unless it's otherwise specified, speakers have a right to assume that
all their travel, meal, and hotel expenses will be paid for the entire trip.
Speakers will also expect hotel or motel accommodations as a matter of course;
if they're to be guests in private homes, this should be explained before their
arrival. b. Speaking
Arrangements. Speakers should know when they're expected to speak and
whether their presence is also required elsewhere in the convention. (Some
speakers may be unable to attend the entire convention.) No other commitments
besides speaking should be made for speakers without their knowledge and
consent. Most speakers will also appreciate knowing something about the
conditions under which they'll speak; let them know whether there'll be a
podium, public address system, etc. c. Speaker Hosts and/or
Hostesses. Responsible members from the local group should be assigned the
duty of being host to the visiting speakers and making sure that they have
proper accommodations, as well as transportation and other conveniences. PROVIDING SERVICES FOR A.A.s WITH SPECIAL NEEDS For Deaf Members A.A. members who are deaf or hard of hearing may need special
considerations when attending an A.A. conference or convention. For those who
have a fair amount of hearing and/or who read lips, seating near the speaker may
be all that is required. Others who are deaf may require the use of a sign
language interpreter. Here are some points to consider when planning a
conference or meeting that will be attended by deaf or hard of hearing A.A.s. 1 Reserve interpreters well ahead of time
because they are in great demand. 2 Budget the interpreting expenses. Find out
early what the estimated cost will be, whether by the hour or by the day. If you
are holding concurrent workshops, you may need more than one interpreter at the
same time. If your event is small (and short) you may be fortunate to find a
qualified volunteer, but do not expect to rely on volunteers. 3 In arranging preferred seating for deaf or
hard of hearing members, designate the reserve area clearly: "Please
reserve for hearing-impaired members." 4 Sensitize workshop leaders and meeting
chairpersons to the use of the interpreter. 5 Stick with your plans once you have
announced that an event is sign‑language accessible. Deaf people are very
likely to travel far for the few events that are interpreted. If the event is a
large one with concurrent meetings and workshops, plan for continuous
availability of several interpreters. 6 If you are listing the event with the
General Service Office, your local intergroup, or in any A.A. publication,
specify that it is sign language interpreted. If possible, have a T.D.D. number
that deaf people can call for more information. For A.A.s With Other Special Needs For blind people, some convention committees
provide programs in Braille. Also, if meetings are wheelchair accessible,
this may be noted in the program. GUARDING AGAINST ANONYMITY BREAKS When A.A. conventions are being covered by
members of the press, it's customary to begin meetings by asking their
cooperation in protecting members'
anonymity. Such an announcement might go like this: "Our anonymity, like our sobriety, is a
treasured possession. We ask the help of our guests-especially those
representing the press or broadcasting media-in protecting the anonymity of all
alcoholics present or mentioned here today. "We hope you hear something at this
meeting which you can take away with you and use. We respectfully request,
however, that you eliminate any mention of names in reference to members of
Alcoholics Anonymous." It's hardly likely that any newspaper or
broadcasting station these days will fail to cooperate with this request; not
only is the A.A. principle of anonymity well known generally, but our G.S.O. in
New York City has advised the press and broadcasters year after year of A.A.'s
position on this matter. But it's possible that members' anonymity
may be violated through indirect methods. There's a likelihood, for example,
that too much promotional zeal on the part of the convention committee may lead
them to reveal a great deal of information about speakers without actually
disclosing last names. This means, in the case of some well-known individuals,
that their anonymity is technically protected but actually broken, since their
identity can be readily recognized by anybody remotely familiar with them or
their work. In one case, for example, a university
professor had been invited to address a large A.A. banquet in the same state
where he lived and worked. Only his first name, nickname, and last initial
appeared on the announcement posters, but the name of his school and a previous
academic connection were fully displayed. The professor's actual identity
couldn't have been more clearly revealed if his last name and photograph had
been included. Is there a safe way to avoid making such de
facto anonymity breaks? Well, one good procedure is to ask speakers how they
wish to be listed on posters and advance notices. They'll know better than
anybody else how much information about themselves ought to be revealed. In any
case, whatever the speakers' feelings, the practice of using initials rather
than last names should always be followed for the protection of A.A., as well as
the individual. MISCELLANEOUS TIPS ON GOOD When your committee is discussing the
convention, try to go over the things you liked and didn't like at past
conventions, especially matters that caused petty irritations and annoyances;
most likely, they can be avoided. Here are a few suggestions: 1 Badges. A.A. conventions
don't seem to be right without identification badges. See that they're in bold,
colorful letters, so they can be read at a glance. Try not to subject guests to more than a few
minutes' wait in registering for the convention and picking up their badges.
Organize the registration so the process will flow smoothly and quickly. 2 Coffee. It's an essential
feature-plenty of coffee sessions throughout the convention. Don't forget, some
A.A.s come more to talk to each other than to listen to speakers, so be sure
they have lots of opportunity to gather 'round the coffeepot. 3 Accessibility. At large
conventions, it's sometimes necessary to hold some of the open meetings in
buildings other than the one used as convention headquarters. Try to plan the
meetings so members do not have to go more than a few blocks for a meeting or
panel session. One exception to this might be the last open meeting of the
convention, from which the guests will most likely be making their departure. 4 Hotel & Motel Registrations. Often,
printed lists of local accommodations, giving prices and other information, are
available from local chambers of commerce and similar offices. If possible,
send these lists out with the registrations and give members a chance to make
their reservations long before the convention. Don't assume, in sending out the lists, that
all A.A.s intend to stay in medium- or high-priced accommodations; also include
the lower-priced hotels and motels. In some places, camping facilities are also
listed, for the A.A.s who may arrive in campers. 5 Professional Assistance. Don't
hesitate to avail yourself of assistance from local chamber of commerce
officials and convention managers. They already know all about the problems
you'll be facing, and they can give invaluable advice and assistance. 6 Displays. You can pass along
important A.A. information in an attractive way by using displays available from
G.S.O. When you tell us the dates of your get-together, we will automatically
send you two of these. One is the large "Inside A.A." poster, using
pictures to explain our service structure. The other is a selection of pamphlets
and book jackets to make up a literature display. Consult the Literature Order
Form for listing of other useful material, or write to G.S.O. for suggestions. 7 Don't Compete With Last Year. While
it's best not to try to compete with previous conventions, if you're the
convention chairperson, you will naturally want to benefit from the experience
of previous convention committees. A.A. AND AL-ANON The following questions often arise: How may A.A. and AI-Anon cooperate in area and regional conventions and
get-togethers? In accordance with the Twelve Traditions, a
convention would be either A.A. or AI-Anon-not both. However, most A.A.
convention committees invite AI-Anon to participate by planning its own program,
and the committee arranges for facilities for the AI-Anon meetings. Should an A.A. convention committee make a contribution
to AI-Anon from the financial profits of the convention? In accordance with the self-support
Traditions of both Fellowships and to abide by the concept of "cooperation
but not affiliation," it is suggested that A.A. should not make gifts or
contributions to AI-Anon. By the same token, A.A. should not accept
contributions from AI-Anon. If separate registrations have been kept for both
A.A. and AI-Anon, however, income may be easily assigned. TAPING GUIDELINES Shared experience makes it clear that taping
of an A.A. convention cannot be left to chance. It is a difficult and time
consuming job, including preliminary work with the speakers and decisions about
who will tape the convention, the conduct of the taper during the convention,
and his/her staff and follow-up after the convention. Following are some
suggestions: 1 The taping chairperson may represent the convention in
reaching agreements with the person who will be taping that particular
convention, and in developing a written agreement. 2 The convention taping chairperson may develop a release
form on which speakers agree to being taped or decline to be taped. 3 Experience shows that it is best to encourage speakers
not to use full names and not to identify third parties by full names in their
talks. The strength of our anonymity Traditions is reinforced by speakers who do
not use their last names and by taping companies or tapers whose labels and
catalogs do not identify speakers by last names, titles, service, jobs or
descriptions. 4 The taping chairperson ensures that a taper has an
understanding of the Traditions. 5 The agreement prepared by the convention committee determines
what the taper sells or displays on‑site. 6 The convention committee clarifies that taping is not an
official part of the convention. 7 In keeping with a 1980 General Service Conference
recommendation, it is suggested that speakers not be videotaped. 8 Convention committees discourage any taping royalties to
the convention committee. |
