Al-Anon & Alateen Family Groups

BC/YUKON AREA BULLETIN Volume 4, Issue 7

August 2014

Opinions expressed herein are not to be attributed to Al-Anon as a whole

BC/Yukon Chair

Inside this issue: BC/Yukon Chair & Bulletin

1

Delegate & Treasurer 2 Group Records, Canada West Trustee & Literature

3

Public Outreach & Archives

4

Archives

5

AIS/LDC

6

Volunteer Opportuni- 7 ties & Assembly intro Ask-it-Basket

8

Assembly

9

Assembly Agenda

10

What is Assembly & Discussion topics

11

Discussion topics

12+

Upcoming Events

14

Group Changes

15

Website Access: Www.bcyukon-al-anon.org To access “members” pages 

User name: member



Password: Area81

Wow, the wind of the year blowing past is whipping my hair straight back! Can’t believe we’re looking towards September so soon. I hope you’re all having a glorious summer, doing the fun summer things and then hiding in the air-conditioning, ‘cause - whew, it’s hot! Sometimes group numbers are a little lower in the summer as people travel, but it’s also the time of year when you may be lucky enough to meet members from other areas who visit your group. Members know that they will be welcomed to an Al-Anon meeting wherever they visit, and it’s a great feeling to have ‘instant friends’ all over the province and much further afield. Al-Anon is so much more than the sum of its parts, and never am I more aware of that as when I’m at Assembly. The warmth, the fellowship, the working together towards a common goal, all combine to make a spiritual bond that carries me through for so long afterwards.

If you’ve attended Assembly, you already know. If you’ve never been, you have a lot of friends, just like yourself, that you’d love to meet, and probably many that you already have. At Assembly, you will be supported by those who have been before – “Let the hand of Al-Anon” is an inside job, too! If you’re the Group Rep, or if you’re the person your group chooses to represent them, we want to welcome you to Assembly. If your group or district can’t pay your way to Assembly as their representative, contact our Treasurer, Owen, who will make sure you have the funds to attend. See the registration information in this Bulletin and book your room today. ALL Al-Anon and Alateen Members are welcome, and encouraged to attend. We need to hear each and every group’s voice at Assembly – my name is Loreen, I’m a grateful member of Al-Anon, and I want to meet YOU in person! Love In Service, Loreen D. [email protected]

Bulletin We are in the testing phase of having the Bulletin available as a newsletter by e-mail. We hope this will increase the readership of the Bulletin throughout our area. Due to rising costs of printing and mailing, we must regretfully increase our subscription cost to $18.48 per year. This covers the cost of mailing a 10 page edition. Any additional pages come at an extra cost that BC/Yukon Area will absorb at this time as funds are available.

Any comments or suggestions for improvement are appreciated. What is working well and what can we improve? Don’t forget to encourage applications for the Bulletin Editor position! With gratitude, Janis A (temporary) Bulletin Editor

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BC/YUKON AREA BULLETIN

Delegate’s Diary I would like to express my gratitude to Janis A. who so ably represented our area at the World Service Conference, when I was unable to attend. I have heard from those of you who attended our Area World Service Committee Meeting in May, that her report was superb. I am looking forward to hearing it at Assembly in September. This year I have been assigned to the World Service Office Public Outreach Committee. I was able to participate in a conference call in mid-July and am looking forward to this new experience. Our current tasks are to review the text for the new Public Service Announcements and to review and revise “The Best of Public Outreach. I’m sure it will be an interesting process. Here is an update on electronic literature. An e-book version of How Al-Anon Works (eB-22) is now available in the Kindle format at Amazon.com, in the ePub format at the Apple iTunes store, and Nook format at BarnesandNoble.com. Previously the e-book was available only from the iTunes store.

The e-book is priced at $9.99. The e-book is available in English, French, and Spanish from the Kindle and the iTunes store. Currently it is available in English only from BarnesandNoble.com. This announcement is informational only, and is not an endorsement of any electronic media providers. Having Had a Spiritual Awakening (eB-25) is also available as an e-book from these electronic media outlets. There are two pieces of Conference Approved Literature that are available as audio books: How Al-Anon Works (eA22) and One Day at a Time in Al-Anon (eA-6). These are sold as MP3 downloads. Love in service Lois K [email protected]

Treasurer Notes from your Treasurer, Owen: 1.

2.

All Group Representatives (GRs) are encouraged to attend Assembly in September. Groups are responsible for GRs expenses to attend on their behalf. If yourgroup is unable to pay these expenses, ask your district for help. Once these avenues are explored and funds are not available, you can talk to Owen, your treasurer, to ask for financial help from the Area. Based on funds being available, he will advise if the Area can provide the funds for your GR to travel to Assembly. [email protected] Lunch tickets for Assembly must be ordered in advance. The easiest method is to use the PayPal link on the website. If you are unable to do that, please send a cheque to Owen, stating the name of the person or people the money is intended to pay for. Tickets are $13.00 each. A list of payments will be at the registration desk where you can pick up your lunch ticket on arrival at Assembly. All payments must be received by September 18th. Owen Hughes 607—8 Laguna Court New Westminster, BC V3M 6M6

“Payment for lunch tickets for Assembly must be received before September 18th”

Luncheon Menu Assorted Sandwiches Deli Meats and Vegetable Wraps Fresh Vegetable Crudites with Creamy Dip Fresh cut Fruit Trays Assorted Sweets

Volume 4, Issue 7

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Group Records

Group or District Changes include:  Location

Please submit all changes to Group Records, “Your one stop shop”, who will ensure the website, information service offices and WSO always have the most up-to-date meeting information. Fill out form on www.bcyukon-al-anon.org “Group Records” section or e-mail [email protected]

 

Meeting time/day Group Representative



District Representative



Mailing address



E-mail address

Canada West Trustee nomination Sherrill W.(Dist 6) has graciously volunteered to be a candidate for the Canada West Trustee position. AWSC voted in May to ratify her nomination and forward it to WSO for consideration. The Canada West Trustee is a 3 year position. Trustees have the responsibility of making the legal decisions for Al-Anon with input and support from the WSO office staff. Marilyn (Alberta) has completed her first year term in this position. She has also put

her name forward as a candidate for what could be her second term. (trustees can serve up to 2 terms). The decision will be made by the board at the end of this year and ratified at the World Service Conference in April. Thank you to Sherrill for her willingness to serve Al-Anon in this capacity. We will be waiting to see what God has planned for you in your service path.

Literature Happy 50th Anniversary to “ALATEEN TALK”. This is a quarterly newsletter which carries the voices of Alateen members sharing their experience, strength and hope with each other. This newsletter is mailed to every Alateen group and is also available by subscription from WSO. You can check it out by reading excerpts from it on the WSO Public Outreach website at www.al-anon.alateen.org/alateentalk.

Fun Facts: Our current five top selling CAL books are: Courage to Change (B16) Paths to Recovery (B-24) How Al-Anon Works (B-22, B-32) One Day At A Time (B-6) Hope for Today (B27) LIS Gail G.

ALATEEN 4TH STEP INVENTORY (P64) This is a wonderful interactive workbook which leads us through the fourth step inventory using cartoons, sharings, questions and the opportunity for self-expression. It is clearly and plainly written and explains what we are after in the 4th Step inventory process. It outlines areas of Attitude, SelfEsteem, Love, Responsibility, Feelings and Relationships for us to explore. It also points out a list of positive qualities to be looked at and talks about living in the solution. I find the longer I am in this program the more I embrace “Keep it Simple” and thorough, and that is what I love in this workbook.

BC/YUKON AREA BULLETIN

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Public Outreach

Module Two of Al-Anon Outreach to Treatment Facilities talks about first assessing the opportunity and then planning the project. Is it feasible and sustainable, and if not – is there an alternative? Some necessary resources are: commitment from Al-Anon service arms, willing Al-Anon volunteers, members who can communicate with the facility, and funds for supplies and materials. When the district PO committee approves the project, they can then decide on a timeframe for its implementation, and appoint a member to coordinate the project.

The Project Coordinator should also have background information about the treatment center and its programs before initiating contact with the facility. This background information can help members be more effective in our communications with the

treatment center staff and can also help us feel more confident when we communicate with professional staff, and be better prepared to recommend various types of outreach activities at the facility. If the treatment center does not have a family program, we still have opportunities for public outreach activities. For example, we can suggest that staff give the alcoholic introductory information about Al-Anon, along with local meeting schedules, which they can pass on to their family and friends. There are so many ways for us to carry the message. By giving some thought to what we want to accomplish, and how we want to accomplish it, and working with the facility staff, we can bring confidence and enthusiasm to any Public Outreach project. Our goal is to attract to our program those whose lives are or have been affected by someone else’s drinking, so that those who need our program can find the help and hope we offer. Check out http://al-anon.org/members/service-structure/ districtresources/item/470-treatment-facilities-outreachproject to see the entire Treatment Facilities Outreach Project and then let me know how your district is going to get started! Love in Service, Deborah B.

Archives In the early Binders of the BC/Yukon Archives there are many handwritten and typed letters. They were excellent typists. The Al-Anon BC corresponded on a regular basis with the Clearing House in New York (today it is the World Service Office).

tory. The Al-Anon correspondence in the early years had a personal touch. This is a copy of the original letter and hope that it is legible for you.

I have inserted a letter from Al-Anon New York 1954 signed by Anne and Lois (co-founders of Al-Anon). I thought it might be of interest as it is a big part of the beginning of our His-

In service, Cindy & Judy - Team Archives

Continued on page 5

Volume 4, Issue 7

Archives, continued

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BC/YUKON AREA BULLETIN

Page 6

AL-ANON INFORMATION SERVICES & LITERATURE DEPOTS (AIS/LDC): Vancouver AIS/LDC “Al-Anon Central Services” 604-688-1716 [email protected] Kelowna LDC 250-763-5555 [email protected] Victoria AIS/LDC 250-383-4020 [email protected]

Kelowna AIS/LDC Hello Everyone, This month has been very quiet so I don’t have a lot to share. I hope everyone is enjoying summer. There is a new Al-Anon group starting up in Winfield. More information will become available next month. That's all for now, take care! In service Yvonne

The Victoria Al-Anon Information Service office/ Literature Depot is open 10 am to 2pm every Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Thank you for your continuing support!

Vancouver AIS/LDC “Al-Anon Central Services” CENTRAL SERVICES OFFICE COMMITTEE REPORT On June 20th we began the evening with a potluck supper followed by our final meeting before the summer break. A former Office volunteer, Rose T. was visiting from Edmonton and we were pleased to have her stay for the potluck and meeting. Cindy H. and Judy K., Area 81 Archives Coordinators, shared their vision for the future of the Archives. Quite a bit has been recorded digitally and this was presented during the meeting. The Archives are housed at Central Services Office and are available for viewing during office hours. We have seen a decline in revenues due to a decrease in both literature sales and group contributions. This decline has been slow, but steady over the last few months. If these sources of income do not increase, we may have to

dip into our reserves to cover operating expenses. As this is something we do not want to be forced to do, we are appealing to all groups and their members for support. Speaking of literature sales, with Assembly fast approaching don’t forget to place your literature orders with the Office as soon as possible. The deadline is September 19th for those wanting to pick up their orders at Assembly. Our next Office Committee Meeting will be Friday, September 12th at 7:30. It is held at Central Services Office and everyone is welcome. Yours in service, Cynthia Y.

AL-ANON CENTRAL SERVICES CONTRIBUTIONS, CALLS/EMAILS & VISITS ALDERGROVE MONDAY - ASHCROFT AFG - BURNABY SOUTH MONDAY – COQUITLAM SERENITY SATURDAY – GIBSONS SERENITY – WHITE ROCK THURSDAY – WHITE ROCK FRIDAY CONTRIBUTIONS - $465.00 FOR JUNE CALLS 327 – VISITS 51 – EMAILS: (MTGS 31 – INFO 23 – ORDERS 8) FOR MAY/JUNE

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Volume 4, Issue 7

Volunteer Opportunities Area 81 Treasurer We will be voting for a treasurer at Assembly in September. It is recommended the candidate have experience as a District Representative. For more information about the job, please check the website under job descriptions. If you or someone you know could be a good candidate for this position, please fill out a service resume and submit to Loreen, our chairperson. To give members an opportunity to consider all applicants, please have your resume in before August 15th so it can be included in the GR packages for Assembly.

Website Committee Volunteers needed to work with website coordinator to develop guidelines and policies to ensure the website meets the needs of BC/Yukon members. Knowledge of Traditions and Concepts is recommended. Please submit your name and qualifications to Loreen at chair@bcyukon -al-anon.org. Please note, applicants do not require extensive computer knowledge.

My First Assembly Experience My first Assembly was in September 2013 and the title was “Our Legacies: The Spiritual Journey of Changing Me to We”. I arrived at Assembly with few expectations. Although I was anticipating a “business type” meeting. The morning began with laughter, warmth and an abundance of food! Everyone was made to feel welcome, truly amazing with so many people in attendance to feel so individually welcomed no matter what your title was or was not. One of my most memorable quotes from the morning was that, “God chose us to be right where we were supposed to be”, and that’s why we were present that morning. What a powerful yet simple statement. I laughed at stories that Ally, our Chair, shared with us. It truly marvels me how Al-Anon material is so relatable and everyone gets it! There were some discussion items that ruffled a few feathers. This was my opportunity to witness conflict and resolution in a platform where everyone was heard, no one was discounted and all were respected, WOW!! Truly amazing. I listened to our Delegate share her experiences and was moved by her stories. I started to understand how Al-Anon comes together- from me at my Thursday night meeting, to our GR, to our DR, to our officers and coordinators, to our Delegates and to our World Service Office - Yes the whole “Me to We” process became clearer to me.

Help for hosts committee for 2014 Assembly District #1 has agreed to host Assembly in September 2014. If you can help by taking a shift, please contact Sharon at [email protected]

BC/Yukon Bulletin Editor Once the Bulletin structure and delivery options are finalized, we will need a Bulletin Editor for a 3 year term, starting January 2015 (or sooner). The candidate must have experience using Microsoft Publisher, be familiar with traditions and have 8-12 hours available each month to compile, edit and distribute the BC/Yukon Bulletin. If you are interested in learning more or submitting a resume, please contact Loreen, your Area Chair.

The Alateens were a very special part of the Assembly. I felt their presentation touch hearts throughout the room and bring new hope. I’ll never forget that feeling. Then it was skit time- hilarious and thought provoking at the same time. So many emotions, joy, sadness, marvel, compassion, fellowship, and hope. I was kinda drained when we left that night but my heart was full. And my tummy was too! I have always heard there’s never a shortage or variety of foods at Al-Anon events and boy I can sure attest to that! Sunday morning there was a Spiritual Meeting. Members that were leaving their service positions were invited to share their Spiritual experiences. Part way through the meeting I asked myself why I had applied mascara that morning, the waterproof stuff wasn’t really working! Not many dry eyes in the room. What was in that room was love, hope and understanding like no other. I have found that in Al-Anon we are there for one common goal- recovery and healing from the effects of alcoholism. As alcoholism knows no boundaries, nor does AlAnon. As diverse and different as we all are in Al-Anon we come together and are unified. We joined hands around the room and became one.... what an experience. Shelley B, Westbank BC

BC/YUKON AREA BULLETIN

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Ask it Basket Questions (AWSCM)

Responses are compiled by BC/Yukon Officers using AlAnon service manual, books and resources. At AWSCM it was mentioned that there were 12 Alateen chat lines. Can any of these be accessed by Canadians or teens in BC/Yukon? If so, how do they access it? If not, why not? Alateen members between the ages of 13 and 18 can register for chat line access through the WSO website http://al-anon.org In the “members” section (password: group name followed by “afg”) select the Alateen tab and follow the links to chat lines. To register to be a participant in Alateen online meetings, the Alateen member must agree to the terms of use and fill out the registration form. I have put questions in the ask it basket for 2 years in a row and have yet to see answers. Why? Some questions may not be suitable for public discussion. If the questions involve a personality issue, it is best to talk with your sponsor, group representative or district representative first. Officers and coordinators can also offer assistance by helping to find answers in the service manual and other literature (concepts and traditions). As an Ask-it-basket question, we are unable to contact the sender as the question is submitted anonymously. A very popular Al-Anon member is frequently coming to the meeting with invitations to non-Al-Anon events. After being reminded it isn’t appropriate she responds by saying, “It’s 5 minutes before the meeting”, or , “The meeting just closed. What’s the problem, the meeting is finished.” She

District Report After almost a full year with no DR for District 5,I felt the need to step up into the position. So here I am. It has been a steep learning curve these past 8 months but one I am enjoying. I’m learning the ropes very quickly. We have had some successes this year and some challenges. The 2013 Roundup with Al Anon participation, the annual Christmas Party and the 2014 Multi District Workshop were all very successful. The challenge is get more members out to these events.

has also used group e-mails to invite members to her daughter’s jewelry parties etc. I fear it will give newcomers the wrong idea about Al-Anon. How can I help my group? Page 54 of the service manual has general guidelines for dealing with group problems and solutions. Our new “conflict resolution” package may be a helpful tool in guiding a group discussion. Study of the traditions as a group could also be useful as it will empower the members with knowledge of the traditions. It usually results in a better outcome when we learn about traditions as a group rather than have some members enforce the “rules”. Perhaps the member would respond to a private conversation about the policy on page 98 which talks about the inappropriate use of meetings as a marketplace before, during or after these gatherings for the sale of services or products. Why don’t district representatives get a free service manual at the same time as GR’s? The cost of sending service manuals to DR’s is beyond what Al-Anon can afford. As you may have seen in the delegates report, Al-Anon services are funded by members, but only 25% of the cost of services is received by donations from members. The balance is paid by literature sales – 75%! The service manual is printed once every 3 years and is sold at cost. It is possible to pre-order from your local LDC and use district funds to pay for it. Can Al-Anon Works (paperback) be sold at meetings? The intended purpose of the paperback edition is to reduce the cost to make it easier to provide newcomers with a book but it can also be sold at meetings.

With one AWSCM under my belt now I am beginning to understand even more so how important service work is and why it’s so necessary for our recovery. I am grateful for the opportunity to serve and will do my best to represent our district. I have had lots of help and support along the way and would encourage anyone thinking about service to jump on in. It’s not that scary! Yours In Service, Debbie D D.Rep District 5

Volume 4, Issue 7

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2014 BC/Yukon Assembly September 26, 27 & 28, 2014 Langley, B.C. Locations for Meetings: Friday & Saturday: Walnut Grove Lutheran Church, 20530 88th Ave, Langley B.C. Sunday morning: Holiday Inn Express, 8750 204th Street, Magnolia Room

Accommodations: Holiday Inn Express 8750 204th Street, Langley, BC, V1M 2Y5 RESERVATIONS MUST BE MADE DIRECTLY WITH THE HOTEL @ 1-888-771-7666 ** BEFORE September 8th. PLEASE QUOTE “AFG” WHEN MAKING RESERVATIONS TO ENSURE YOU GET THE GROUP RATE. 40 - Standard rooms with two queen beds at a rate of $109.00 +taxes 4 - King standard rooms at a rate of $119.00 +taxes 12 - Executive rooms at a rate of $119.00 +taxes 4 - Junior suites (1 queen bed and a pullout sofa, with fridge, microwave, and sitting area) at a rate of $129.00 +taxes 1 – Family suite (2 queen beds, pullout sofa, sitting area, fridge, microwave) $149.00 + taxes These rates are based on one night, double occupancy, and there is a $15.00 charge for any additional person over 2 per room. The hotel rooms include a hot deluxe breakfast, which includes omelets, scrambled eggs, sausage, bacon, breads etc. Amenities: indoor pool, hot tub, sauna, steam room and fitness room all of which are newly renovated.

Travel information: By Car: To exit #58 on Freeway, travel north on 200th St. and turn right (east) on 88th. By Air: To Vancouver International Airport To Abbotsford Airport By Bus: To Langley Bus Terminal By Ferry: From Twawwassen, take the new highway #17 to Hwy #1 in Surrey. Travel east on Highway #1 to exit #58, turn north on 200 St and right (east) on 88th. From Horseshoe Bay, take Highway #1 east to Langley, exit #58, turn north on 200 St and right (east) on 88th.

Host committee chair: Sharon M

604-988-2554, Cell: 604-716-0597 or e-mail [email protected] Please contact Sharon if you can join district #1‘s volunteer host committee.

PLEASE NOTE: THE AREA COMMITTEE DOES NOT PROVIDE LITERATURE SALES AT ASSEMBLY If you would like to pre-order literature, Central Services Office will deliver it to Assembly for pick up. Please pre-order literature by September 19th To place orders, call 604-688-1716 or e-mail [email protected]

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BC/YUKON AREA BULLETIN

Assembly 2014 Agenda Sept 26 to 28, 2014 Pre-assembly meetings, Friday Afternoon

Saturday Afternoon

1-3 3:00

1:00

Officers’ & Coordinators’ Meeting AMIAS sharing session with pizza dinner pre-registration required at [email protected]

1:30

Friday Evening, Sept. 26, 2014 5:00 7:00

7:15 7:45 9:00

Registration opens Welcome and Announcements Introduction of Officers & Coordinators Assembly Goals GR Orientation: Icebreaker (Owen H, Deborah B) WSO Service Manual Game – Lois K Fellowship & Ice Cream Social

Saturday – Morning Sept 27, 2014

Review voting procedures & KBDM (Knowledge Based Decision Making) Roll Call Discussion topics -Consent Agenda -Schedule of Elections -Mileage rate for Officers & Coordinators -Website discussion

3:00

Coffee Break

3:20

New business Election of Treasurer Bids for AWSCM 2015 and Assembly 2016 Forward Thinking (eg. Skype an Alateen, Yukon member, Diversity, personal connections) Dinner Break.

4:00 5:00

8:00–8:45 Early Bird Al-Anon Meeting 8:00 Registration opens

Saturday Evening

9:00

7:00 7:30

Alateen Presentation Public Outreach PSA/Presentation

8:00

Coffee Break

8:20 8:40 9:00

Bugs and Butterflies of Service Summary of Weekend Decisions Evaluations & Fellowship

Welcome - Read Traditions and Concepts. Introduction of Officers & Coordinators Consent Agenda  Minutes Assembly 2013  Officer’s reports  Coordinators reports Treasurers Report Schedule of elections & appointments Poll past/present DR’s for candidates for Treasurer

10:00

Coffee break

Sunday – Sept. 28, 2014 9:00 – 11:00 Spiritual Meeting

10:15 11:00

Officer’s and Coordinator’s presentations Delegate’s Report

** PLEASE BRING YOUR SERVICE MANUAL **

Noon

Fellowship lunch will be available on site for $13, MUST order and pay in advance.

See Page 2 for lunch ordering information

Volume 4, Issue 7

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What is Assembly? BC/Yukon Assembly is held once per year at the end of September. In business terms, it’s the AGM of our area. The 3 main goals of Assembly are: Your voice is heard: This is a meeting where the voices of the groups from the BC/Yukon are heard through representation by your Group Representative. (1 group = 1 vote) Your “trusted servants” rely on the discussion and voting at Assembly to guide the actions of Al-Anon and Alateen in our area as well as world-wide. Delegate report from WSO: The BC/Yukon Delegate brings a report from his/her attendance at the World Service Conference which is held each April at Al-Anon headquarters in Virginia Beach. The report will inform the members of the activities of the World Service Office on behalf of the members worldwide. It is also an opportunity for the delegate to forward BC/Yukon member’s input into World Service Office activities. Voting for Area 81 officers and trustees (when indicated). The area officers include Delegate, Alternate Delegate, Chair, Secretary and Treasurer. Who attends? While all Al-Anon and Alateen members are welcome to attend, all Group Representatives (GR) are asked to attend in order to vote on behalf of their group. Only GRs vote at

Assembly. This is how the members of each group guide the actions of Al-Anon and Alateen. How does the Group Representative prepare for Assembly? GRs are asked to read the agenda and background information that is sent to them prior to Assembly. Most information is included in the August and September BC/Yukon Bulletin. Group Representatives present the information to their group and ask for guidance from the group members on how best to represent them on each of the issues up for discussion. How are expenses paid? Group funds should be made available to pay for the GR’s attendance at Assembly. Expenses include travel, hotel and meals. It is recommended that GRs travel together whenever possible and share a hotel room to minimize the cost to their group. In cases where the group or district cannot afford to pay all costs, a representative from the group can contact the Area Treasurer to request financial assistance. For planning and budgeting purposes, the Area Treasurer asks that requests be submitted at least one month prior to Assembly. For more general information, please refer to the service manual

Discussion Topics for Assembly - Background Information Consent Agenda At the 2013 Assembly there was some discussion as to what exactly was included in the Consent Agenda. It was felt by some that the 2008 motion, “Move Area 81 accepts the Consent Agenda for coordinator and officers reports”, does not state what the Consent Agenda consists of. The motion doesn’t mention the previous meeting minutes and doesn’t specify exactly which Officer and Coordinators’ reports are to be included. Background: To save time during AWSCM and Assembly, a motion was passed in 2008 to have a Consent Agenda. This means that the Officers’ and Coordinators’ Reports and the minutes of the previous AWSCM or Assembly are distributed to the voting members ahead of time for perusal, and then, after any corrections, or identified discussion, a motion and a second to vote on the acceptance of the reports and minutes occurs at the meeting.

The unintended consequence was that the membership felt disconnected from the Officers and Coordinators so it was decided that the Officers and Coordinators would give a very brief synopsis rather than read their whole reports, although their entire reports would still be distributed and included in the Consent Agenda. The treasurer’s report had been pulled from the Consent Agenda as people wanted to hear/see that. Current Discussion: The discussion at the Officers’ & Coordinator’s meeting was that no changes were needed in the process, as it’s practiced, but some housekeeping was perhaps needed of the writing to clarify the motion. A suggested clarification of the 2008 motion: Move Area 81 accepts the consent agenda, which includes minutes from AWSCM and/or Assembly and Officers’ and Coordinators’ annual reports, excluding the Treasurer’s an-

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BC/YUKON AREA BULLETIN

Discussion Topics for Assembly - Background Information Schedule of Elections and Appointments In 2000, the Group Representatives voted to accept a revised schedule of Elections and Appointments. This schedule provided for a staggered calendar of elections and appointments so that only some of the officers and coordinators would be replaced each year. In this way, there would be a balance of experienced and new members to this group. Over the past few years, some positions have been vacant and some appointees to coordinator positions have been unable to complete their terms. As a result, due to interim changes to the

schedule, we would now be appointing five coordinators in 2015. To correct this problem, the officers and coordinators have prepared a revised schedule for your perusal and input. (see below) The suggested revision also includes the years of the term being elected or appointed. For example, in 2014 we will elect a new treasurer, whose term will cover the period January 2015 to December 2017.

Schedule of Elections and Appointments E - Elected by Group Representatives at Assembly A - Appointed by the Chairman after consultation with the Delegate and Alternate Delegate All elected and appointed positions are for a term of three years, beginning January 1st following Assembly in September of the year noted. AIS offices in Vancouver, Kelowna and Victoria select their own local service members. Elected or Appointed at Assembly in the year:

2013 Term Start End Jan/14-Dec/16

2014 Term Start End Jan /15-Dec /17

2015 Term Start End Jan/16-Dec/18

2016 Term Start End Jan/17-Dec/19

2017 Term Start End Jan/18-Dec/20

2018 Term Start End Jan/19-Dec/21

Elected

Elected

Elected

Elected

Elected

Elected

Chairman

Treasurer

Delegate

Chairman

Treasurer

Delegate

Alternate Delegate

Secretary

Secretary

Alternate Delegate

Appointed

Appointed

Appointed

Appointed

Appointed

Appointed

Website Coordinator

Archives

Alateen Coordinator

Website Coordinator

Archives

Alateen Coordinator

AAPP

Bulletin Editor

Group Records Coordinator

AAPP

Bulletin Editor

Group Records Coordinator

Literature Coordinator

Public Outreach Coordinator

Literature Coordinator

Public Outreach Coordinator

Volume 4, Issue 7

Page 13

Discussion Topics for Assembly - Background Information Officers’ and Coordinators’ Travel Expense Initially, it was noted there was a discrepancy between the 2009 Motion and the Travel Expense Form - the Motion says $0.40/km and the form says "either $0.40/km or gas receipts, whichever is less. From here we started looking at the actual cost of fuel and how that compares with the $0.40/km rate. Looking at the Natural Resources Canada Fuel Consumption Tables and by using the calculations for the largest vehicle listed, and using city mileage rates, just to make sure we have a great margin for error, at $1.30/litre, the actual cost is $0.17/km. If we make it $1.50/litre, for the largest vehicle, in city driving, the result is still less than $0.20/km. An example is: From Kelowna to Abbotsford: 325 km x 2 = 650 km x $0.40 = $260.00 Reimbursed Expected Expense: 650 km x $0.18 = 117.00 Cost (high estimate) = $143.00 More reimbursement than cost While investigating the origins of the original motion in 2009, it was discovered that the Minutes of the AWSCM and the Assembly, in 2009, which have been verified as correct by the officers at the time, differ from the way the motion was recorded: AWSCM 2009 The minutes from AWSCM reflect that the travel expenses for DRs, Officers and Coordinators be discussed at Assembly. (DR meals are covered by their own districts) Minutes from Assembly 2009 “Expense allowances for Officers and Coordinators – The 2001 motion shows 20 cent per km and $35 per day for meals. Open for discussion members opinions. Suggest use standard government rate such as 54 cent per litre and up to 50.00 per day for meal. Agreed 20 cent is too cheap and meals. 30 cent per km and 40 dollar per day for meals. Feel 35 cent would be reasonable and 40 dollar per day. Vote Yes 73, No 25 Abstain 1. Moved by Neil D15 and seconded by Helen D10.”

The 2009 motion was not recorded to reflect the same amounts: Motion 2009 F Move that all Officers of Assembly, Coordinators or Alternate Coordinators, Area O/COR Newsletter Editor, Central Service Office Chairperson, local AIS Chairperson be reimbursed $0.40 per kilometre for travel, double rate CORD accommodations and up to $50.00 per day for meals for up to 4 meetings per year: AWSCM, Assembly and two other meetings as called. Carried To recap: 1.

The minutes from the 2009 AWSCM say that the consensus was that a discussion should ensue re mileage rates for DRs, and Officers & Coordinators.

2. The minutes for the same discussion at the 2009 Assembly only mention Officers & Coordinators, not District Reps. This means that the travel rate is left as per gas receipts for DRs and by the km for Officers & Coordinators. 3. The minutes for the 2009 Assembly appear to say .35 per km and $40.00 a day for meals was voted on and approved. 4. The Motion resulting from that vote says .40 per km and $50.00 a day for meals. While most submit by actual gas receipts, which does not reflect any vehicle wear and tear, if the Officers & Coordinators submitted expenses at this rate per km, the travel expenses would increase greatly. GRs: Please come to Assembly with your group’s suggestions and/or consensus on resolving the Travel Expense issues.

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Upcoming Events SEPTEMBER 10, Abbotsford 35th Anniversary celebration Wednesday Wisdom Seekers AFG is having their 35th anniversary celebration on September 10 from 12:30 pm and 2 pm. Speaker meeting with AA and Al Anon speakers. Everyone welcome. Finger foods and refreshments. Held at the Abbotsford Seniors Centre, 2631 Cyril Street, Abbotsford. Paula B. 604-5045282” SEPTEMBER 13, Vancouver AL-ANON CENTRAL OFFICE monthly Business Meeting at 7:30pm. #101 – 3680 E. Hastings St., Vancouver (corner of Hastings and Boundary Rd.) Come and join us! It is an opportunity to see the office, check out the literature and take a peek at the Archives. Group Reps or Alternate have a vote and everyone has a voice. The Business Meetings are generally 1 – 1 ½ hours. Information 604-688-1716 or [email protected]

SEPTEMBER 16, North Vancouver Tuesday Inside Al-Anon, 32nd Anniversary Meeting St. John the Evangelist Church, 220 West 8th at Chesterfield, North Vancouver. 7:30 to 9:00 PM Al-Anon and AA speakers. Savouries and Sweets will be served. Open to all Al-Anon and AA members and guests.

SEPTEMBER 19-21, Port Alberni Port Alberni's 35th AA Rally with Al-Anon participation, “Back to Basics” Cherry Creek Hall, 3720 Moore Rd. AlAnon speaker 1:00pm Saturday – Birgit F from Port Alberni Al-Anon meetings Saturday morning and evening Registration $15.00 full weekend $35.00 Information please call Celine @ 250-723-5526 SEPTEMBER 25, Langley Langley Thursday Night Anniversary Meeting Please join us . This is an open Al-Anon meeting. Al-Anon, AA members, family and friends are all welcome. Snacks and refreshments will be served. We will be having 2 speakers, one from Al-Anon and one AA. The Theme will be: HOPE We hope to see everyone there Place: Langley Township Municipal Hall - 20338-65th Avenue. Time 7:00 to 9:00 pm. For more info: [email protected]

BC/YUKON AREA BULLETIN

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SEPTEMBER 26 to 28, Langley BC/YUKON ASSEMBLY 2014. Please see details throughout this issue.

OCTOBER 25, Richmond Richmond AA Roundup with Al Anon participation South Arm Community Hall, 9020 Williams Road Richmond B.C An Al-Anon meeting will be held in the morning with “ The family Disease of Alcoholism”. There will be an afternoon workshop “Intimacy and the Alcoholic Relationship” and an Al-Anon Speaker in the afternoon. Pot luck dinner in the evening.

JULY 2-5, 2015, Atlanta, Georgia 2015 INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION OF ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS (with Al-Anon participation) Convention registration and housing reservations will open in fall 2014 . Theme: “80 Years—Happy Joyous and Free” More information will be available soon.

July 2018, Baltimore AL-ANON INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION: Although tickets and hotel information will not be available until late 2017, start saving your nickels to be sure you can go! Air and 4 nights hotel in Baltimore (for 2 people) approximately $2300. That’s only $11.05 per week.

Submit events via events link on BC/Yukon website or by e-mail to [email protected]

Volume 4, Issue 7

Group Changes

NEW LOCATIONS/TIMES

Page 15

“We are anonymous, not invisible” Please ensure group information is always current

MEETINGS CLOSED

RICHMOND—new location Monday Night Serenity Seekers 200 – 4775 Blundell, Richmond, BC, Meeting time unchanged: 7:30 – 8:30 p.m. Contact: Shirley 604-241-9989

GABRIOLA, FIRST STEP AFG—closed Women’s Institute Bldg. Gabriola Island Contact: Lynda 250-247-7417

SATURDAY MORNING KITS AFG—New Location St. Mark’s Anglican Church, 1805 Larch Street (at 3rd Avenue) Vancouver, BC. Meetings held in basement (enter from door and turn sharp left) Group Meeting: Saturday 9:30 – 10:30 am Step Meeting: Saturday 10:45 – 11:45 am

NECHAKO—closed Nechako AFG at Knox United Church, 1448 – 5th Ave.

VANCOUVER TUESDAY NIGHT KITS AFG—New location St. Mark’s Anglican Church (Boardroom), 1805 Larch Street, Vancouver. Day/Time: Tuesday 7:30 pm Contact: Rob 604-618-1777 RICHMOND TUESDAY NIGHT BEGINNERS AFG—New day, time and location New Name: Wednesday Night Beginners AFG New Location: South Arm United Church, (Pioneer Church location separate building) 11051 No. 3 Rd. Richmond, BC. New Time: Wednesday 7:00 pm Effective June 1st NEW WESTMINSTER - new location Healing Steps AFG, Saturday 10:00– 11:00 am New Location: St. Barnabas Anglican Church 1010 Fifth Ave., New Westminster WHITE ROCK CENTENNIAL—new location Effective June 4th - White Rock Centennial, Wednesday 8pm meeting will move to Fellowship Baptist Church, 15138 Prospect Ave. White Rock The following group has changed its meeting start time from 7:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. NANAIMO, THREE LEGACIES AFG—new location Country Grocer (upstairs meeting room) 1800 Dufferin Cres. Nanaimo, BC Saturday 11 a.m. – 12 noon Contacts: Gail S. 250-323-3306 Tina A. 250-751-8769

LITTLE FORT—closed Barriere Serenity AFG, Monday 7-8 pm.

NANAIMO, PATHS TO RECOVERY—closed Country Grocer, 1800 Dufferin Cres., Nanaimo, BC Day/Time: Saturday 7:30 pm

NEW GROUPS KAMLOOPS, STEP AT A TIME—New Group Sage Health Centre, Lower House Loma Bella Rd 101 Columbia, Kamloops. Day/Time: Tuesday 6:30 – 7:30 p.m., Starting June 3, 2014 Contact: Amy 250-572-4289 BURNS LAKE, GRASSY PLAINS AFG—New Group Grassy Plains School, 34310 Keefes Landing Rd Burns Lake. Day/Time: Thursday 6:15 pm Contacts: Rita 250-694-3684 or Rick 250-694-3827 KITIMAT VALLEY AFG—Reopened! Kitimat First Baptist Church, Nursery Room, 840 Columbia Ave., Kitimat, BC Wednesdays at 1:00 pm. Contact: Michelle 778-6312010 (home) or 250-639-1578 (cell)

BC/Yukon Officers & Coordinators—e-mail addresses Loreen:

[email protected]

Judy/Cynthia

[email protected]

Lois K:

[email protected]

Gail G:

[email protected]

Janis A:

[email protected]

Kathy T:

[email protected]

Shannon:

[email protected]

Gloria G:

[email protected]

Owen H:

[email protected]

Kevin L

[email protected]

Lynn:

[email protected]

Janis A:

[email protected]

Deborah:

[email protected]

Please submit all changes to Group Records “Your one stop shop” who will ensure the website, information service offices and WSO always have the most up to date meeting information. Fill out form on www.bcyukon-al-anon.org “group records” section or e-mail [email protected]

Submissions to the BC/Yukon Area Bulletin E-mail to [email protected] or from links on the website. Please send in “Word” format by the 15th of each month.

Submit to both the Website and Bulletin from the link on the “Events” page on the website www.bcyukon-al-anon.org

Subscriptions to BC/Yukon Area 81 Electronic copies:

We’re on the web: bcyukon-al-anon.org

Paper copies:

Free copies of the Bulletin are available online at www.bcyukon-al-anon.org in the “Members” section. User name “member” Password “Area81”

(07/14) If your mailing label shows this date your subscription has expired. For postal delivery, yearly subscription cost is now $18.48 per year due to increased costs—effective July 1, 2014.

The Bulletin will soon be available by e-mail!

Cheques payable to Al-Anon Central Services #101- 3680 E. Hastings Street, Vancouver, B.C. V5K 2A9