Alcoholics Anonymous® and A.A.® are registered trademarks of A.A. World Services, Inc. The A.A. Grapevine® is a registered trademark of The A.A. Grapevine, Inc. The District 24 Newsletter shares service information and the experience of A.A. members. Articles do not necessarily represent the views of the A.A. General Service Conference, nor does publication of any article imply endorsement by Alcoholics Anonymous, the Southern Minnesota Area Assembly, or District 24. Material from A.A. literature is reprinted herein with permission of A.A. World Services; permission to reprint this material does not imply endorsement by A.A.W.S. This is a confidential A.A. publication meant only for A.A. members. It contains members’ names and phone numbers, just as A.A. meeting phone lists do. This usage does not violate our tradition of anonymity at the public media level; personal contact information is not published in website and e-mail copies of the newsletter. Names, phone numbers, and e-mail addresses are not to be used for any solicitation purposes.

Alcoholics Anonymous Southern Minnesota Area 36

District 24 Newsletter D.C.M.’s Report

A cooperative and informed group conscience is how we invite

a Higher Power into our decision making process. This occurs when individual

consciences are awakened and come together to consider service related issues.

The process is demonstrated by group members listening to one another and

reaching compromises. This is done through calm discussion, mutual respect, and a

reliance on the entire Group’s conscience.

Sometimes it isn’t even necessary to vote, because the group’s conscience

becomes quite apparent. Either way, the discussion time is most critical.

Valuable tools to reach a decision can be the Steps, the Traditions, the Concepts,

other Group’s experience and the individual opinions of the members.

A cooperative and informed group conscience calls for the facts on both sides of

the question.

Ideally, the Chair recognizes each member present, in turn, to speak for a pre-

determined time; thereby not allowing dominant personalities to “steal the show.”

It is critical that the “minority opinion” be heard, since they are sometimes right.

It is also critical not to rush to a decision, since it is seldom that this cannot wait.

With Loving Service,

Marty T. - District Committee Member (D.C.M.) District 24, Southern MN Area 36

WWoorrddss WWiitthhoouutt AAccttiioonn AAvvaaiill UUss NNootthhiinngg

TThhee AA..AA.. GGrraappeevviinnee iiss aa 1122--SStteepp TTooooll.. WWhhaatt aarree ssoommee wwaayyss ttoo uussee tthhee GGrraappeevviinnee ttoo CCaarrrryy tthhee MMeessssaaggee??

GGrraappeevviinnee SSuubbssccrriippttiioonn PPrriicceess

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TABLE of CONTENTS

the district.

1 DCM’s Report April 2012

2 District Treasurer’s Report As of April 2, 2012

7 Minutes - March 5, 2012

the group.

2 7

th Tradition

Contributions to AA Entities

2 D24 Officers/ Committee Chairs Contact List

6 Twelve Concepts Checklist – Concept 3

6 Twelve Traditions Checklist – Tradition 3

the member.

6 4th Step Prayers

8 What AA Is and What AA Isn’t

service opportunities.

2 & 8 Archives

1 & 2 Grapevine

2 Calendar of Events

3 Cooperation with the Professional Community (CPC)

5 Corrections

5 Treatment Facilities

APRIL 2012

District 24: Serving AA Groups in Scott County and Eastern Carver County

www.district24aa.org

If we don’t have a conception of God that makes sense to us, …

. . . the following are some of the words and descriptions the old-timers

used to describe God: Power Greater than Ourselves (pg 45)

Supreme Being Power

All Powerful (pg 49)

Guiding (pg 49)

Spirit of the Universe (pg 46) The Presence of the Infinite

Power and Love (pg 56)

Maker (pg 57) Great Reality (pg 55)

The Realm of the Spirit (pg 46)

And, of course, God

Have you been able to find other words in the Big Book that

represent “God?”

Four out of Five Voices in my Head agree - - -

Recovery is Good.

JJUUSSTT DDOO IITT

Go to Meetings. Get a Sponsor. Work the Steps.

Talk to other Alcoholics.

Pray.

ALL ACCESS 7 Day Free Trial

2 APRIL 2012 DISTRICT 24 NEWSLETTER Anonymous

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Starting on

Monday April 2 2012. – 7PM

NEW MONDAY NIGHT MEN’S MEETING!

LOCATION: SUGAR CREEK MEN’S TREATMENT FACILITY

1059 STOUGHTON AVE, CHASKA MN

SATURDAY APRIL 14

9: 00A.M.—4:00P.M.

SO. MN AREA 36

DELEGATE’S WORKSHOP

AmericInn - 240 Stadium Road, Mankato, MN

THURS – WED APRIL 22-28

DELEGATE’S ATTENDANCE

ONLY

62ND

ANNUAL GENERAL SERVICE CONF

New York, New York

SUNDAY – APRIL 29

4:30P.M.—6:00P.M.

SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES MEETING (POTLUCK))

@ Five Star Recovery Center

102 East 2nd

Street, Suite 110B., Chaska

1ST

MONDAY – MAY 7

7: 00P.M.—9:00P.M.

DISTRICT 24 MEETING

St. John’s Lutheran Church

119 8th Avenue W., Shakopee MN

SATURDAY MAY 12

9: 30A.M.—5:00P.M.

SO. MN AREA 36

AREA 36 COMMITTEE MEETINGS

St. John’s Lutheran Church, 500 3rd Street W.,

Northfield, MN

The following events are not District 24 or AA Sponsored but are welcome for all recovery folk and their friends to attend

Starting on

Saturday, April 14 2012

CLEAN AND SOBER MEDITATION GROUP In the 2

nd Street Professional Bldg, 102 E. 2

nd Street,

Ste. 110B, Chaska MN (5 Stars Recovery Center)

Saturdays

Games start at 8pm

BOWLING – LOUISVILLE LANES BOWLING CENTER 3020 133

rd Street West, Shakopee, MN 55379

(Just south of the Hwy 41 Intersection on 169)

DISTRICT 24 TREASURER’S report

April 2, 2012

Beginning Balance (from previous) $ 1,509.86

Group Contributions $ 62.92

Balance with Contributions $ 1,572.78

EXPENSES

March Newsletter and District Meeting Agenda $ 61.59

Packets/Literature for CPC (Sponsor Your Professional) $ 43.20

Supplies for Archives (Printer Ink / Protector Sheets) $ 61.17

District 24 Wallet-sized Directories $ 124.03

Rent $ 50.00

Total Expenses $ 339.99

BALANCE Less Expenses $ 1,232.79

PRUDENT RESERVE $ 250.00

AVAILABLE BALANCE $ 982.79

District 24 sincerely thanks the following Groups for their contributions:

Chaska Thursday 11am River Valley - $29.44 Chaska Sunday Serenity - $48.23

Wanda H., Treasurer treasurer@district24aa.org

SEVENTH TRADITION:

““EEvveerryy AA..AA.. ggrroouupp oouugghhtt ttoo bbee ffuullllyy sseellff--ssuuppppoorrttiinngg,, ddeecclliinniinngg oouuttssiiddee ccoonnttrriibbuuttiioonnss..””

After meeting its basic needs (such as coffee, rent, and literature), each group may share in the financial support of A.A. as a whole by contributing to our service entities:

District 24 P.O. Box 551. Shakopee, MN 55379

Southern Minnesota Area Assembly P.O. Box 2812, Minneapolis, MN 55402

General Service Office (G.S.O.) A.A. World Services, Inc.

P.O. Box 459, Grand Central Station, New York, NY 10163

Greater Minneapolis Intergroup 7204 West 27th Street, Suite 113, St. Louis Park, MN 55426

Funds for the Pink Can Plan, which provides A.A. literature to alcoholics in correctional institutions, can be sent to:

Pink Can Plan P.O. Box 80762, Minneapolis, MN 55408

IInn

AAAA CCoommeess

ooff AAggee

BBiillll WW..

"But the Twelve Traditions also point straight at

many of our individual defects.

By implication they ask each of us to lay aside pride

and resentment.

They ask for personal as well as group sacrifice...

The Traditions guarantee the equality of all members...

They show how we may best relate ourselves to

each other and to the world outside."

Step 4: The first manifestation of self we are going to look at is our resentments. In the third paragraph on page 64, the book says:

“Resentment is the number one offender. It destroys more alcoholics than anything else. From it stem all forms of spiritual disease, for we have been not only mentally and physically ill, we have been spiritually sick. When the spiritual malady is overcome, we straighten out mentally and physically.”

ARCHIVES

Greetings from the Archives, this month I created an inventory of

the materials we have on hand and also brought our records current. Our Alt.DCM Ron seems quite taken with our book on structure.

And I’m keeping true to my word to our Treasurer not to spend any money this month.

Current List of Materials Available in District 24 Archives as of March 20, 2012. Correspondence Newsletters – Oct 1995- April 2000 Newsletters – 2004-2010 Newsletters – Starting in 2011 D24 Meeting Agenda & Minutes July 1994 November 2003 D24 Meeting Agenda & Minutes from September 2004 D24 Meeting Attendance and Meeting Records D24 Financial History D24 Meeting Flyers, Parties and Workshops D24 Structure Copy of the Draft manuscript of the book of Alcoholics Anonymous D24 Meeting Agenda & Minutes July 1994 November 2003 Birth of a District, How the Shadow District of Scott County became District 24

Yours In Service, Kent H. archives@district24aa.org

Greetings from your new Grapevine Chair! I am excited to serve and to promote the Grapevine publication. I have subscribed to both the online and print versions of the Grapevine for our District.

I am asking for donations of old Grapevines to use to recirculate and take to Groups to reacquaint members with the Grapevine and what a wonderful resource it is.

There is a very real concern that the Grapevine may no longer continue if subscriptions do not increase, so I want to make all aware of that.

If anyone has any questions, please contact me.

Yours in Service p, Mary E. – Grapevine Chair, District 24, Area 36

DISTRICT 24 NEWSLETTER APRIL 2012 3

HHooww ttoo TTaallkk aabboouutt AAAA wwiitthh tthhee PPrrooffeessssiioonnaall iinn YYoouurr LLiiffee!!

When meeting with a Professional:

"I’d like you to know that I am a recovered alcoholic and a sober, active member of Alcoholics Anonymous. I have a packet here for you that tells you what AA Is and what AA Isn’t along with information specific to your professional field. AA wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for our friends in the professional community."

"I would like you to know that I am available to talk with any person you think might have a problem with alcohol, or bring them to a meeting of Alcoholics

Anonymous, if they’d like. Here is my contact information."

"Also, on the front of the packet are the phone numbers for the Minneapolis and St. Paul Intergroups. Intergroup is a service office dedicated to helping people find AA meetings and get in contact with sober members of Alcoholics Anonymous."

Example: For a Physician:

"Hi, Dr., just here for my yearly physical. But before we get started I'd like to tell you that I am a recovered alcoholic and an active member of Alcoholics Anonymous. I have here a packet about AA that is put together especially for health care professionals. Among other things, the packet includes information about what AA is and isn't and how you, as a doctor, can be helpful to your patients who may have a drinking problem. Our organization owes so much to our friends in the medical profession."

"In addition, I'd like you to know that I am available to talk to any of your patients who may have a problem with alcohol or bring them to a meeting of Alcoholics Anonymous, if they'd like. I know you can’t provide me with patient information but you can share my info, if you think it will be helpful. If you are interested in going to an open meeting of Alcoholics Anonymous I’d be happy to accompany you. On this card is the contact information for the Minneapolis and St. Paul Intergroups as well as my personal contact information."

Regarding Anonymity:

In our personal relationships with non-alcoholics, (especially professionals) you may feel free to say you are a recovered alcoholic. Here, openness may help to carry the AA message!

COOPERATION WITH THE PROFESSIONAL COMMUNITY

I have been in verbal contact with all 8 churches in our District that act as host to our meetings. They are all receptive to obtaining a Big Book for their libraries as well as receive an info packet for their clergy. I am also planning to make sure their secretary gets some current meeting info for other meetings in our District. I am not sure when I am going to roll all of this out yet, but it is ready to go.

I have mailing labels for all 66 churches in our District. I am working on composing a letter to clergy as well as deciding what other info to include in the mailing.

I had the pleasure of sitting at our Area AA booth during the Minnesota Social Services Annual Meeting and Symposia held at the Minneapolis Hilton on March 15. It is always a great time to do service with AA members who have a significant amount of general service experience and Andy D. certainly provided that. I observed that there is a need for continued AA exposure and education for professionals in the social services realm.

I have begun to reach out to Al-Anon in District 24 to explore sharing a booth at the Scott County Fair in Jordan on July 25-29, 2012.

Lastly, I attended the Southern Minnesota Area Assembly on March 24 in Burnsville. Attendees were given the opportunity to review and comment on the revised final agenda items for the 2012 General Service Conference. CPC will be impacted in three ways:

1. There will be a discussion on the current CPC DVD and a review of a draft of a new CPC DVD.

2. There will be a review of the contents of the CPC Kit and Workbook.

3. There will be a possible revision to the "Singleness of Purpose" statement in CPC literature.

The current statement in C.P.C. literature reads:

Some professionals refer to alcoholism and drug addiction as "substance abuse" or "chemical dependency." Non-alcoholics are, therefore, sometimes introduced to A.A. and encouraged to attend A.A. meetings. Anyone may attend open A.A meetings, but only those with a drinking problem may attend closed meetings.

The proposed revised statement is as follows:

Some professionals refer to alcoholism and drug addiction as "substance abuse" or "chemical dependency." Non-alcoholics are, therefore, sometimes introduced to A.A. and encouraged to attend open A.A. meetings as observers. Anyone may attend open A.A. meetings, but only those with a drinking problem may attend closed meetings.

This statement will add some accuracy and clarification in regards to the AA "Group" and the difference between "open" and "closed" meetings.

I will hopefully be able to expand on these potential changes following the Delegates Workshop on April 14.

Yours in Service and Friendship,

Paul Q. – Communication with the Professional Community Committee Chair (CPC) District 24, Southern MN Area 36 cpc@district24aa.org

4 APRIL 2012 DISTRICT 24 NEWSLETTER

CHOOSE FROM 1,966 MEETINGS IN ALL OF MINNESOTA!

Go To: www.aameetinglocator.org

YOUR AA GROUP CONTRIBUTIONS HAVE MADE THIS VALUABLE RESOURCE AVAILABLE …

SEE BELOW.

All meetings on this AA Meeting Locator are meetings

that are registered with the AA General Service Office in

ALL of Minnesota!

Search using any one or all of the following criteria: Within 1/5/10/15 miles of ANY location in MN TYPE of meeting in MN DAY or TIME of a meeting in MN ZIP CODE or NAME OF TOWN/CITY

Directions from any location to an AA Meeting

Meetings that are not listed on this Locator Database are either not registered or in the process of being registered with the Alcoholics Anonymous General Service Office.

Double check your AA Meeting’s information to be sure it is correct or needs updating. Let your District Group Records Chairperson know and he/she will get it corrected easily!

Great for the Traveler Great for the Professionals (law enforcement /

medical / social services ) to have available, etc.

Funded by AA members of Southern Minnesota Area 36

Read in the Big Book of

Alcoholics Anonymous

“Today I feel I have used up my right to chemical peace of mind.”

From Acceptance was the Answer (p.416, 4th ed.)

Dr. Paul O.

Overheard at an AA Meeting:

AA Elder: There is a secret behind the 12 Steps. Newcomer: What is it? AA Elder: Work.

Delegate’s Workshop

April 14, 2012

AmericInn 240 Stadium Road

Mankato, Minnesota

9:00am to 4:00pm

A pre-conference discussion of

Agenda Items for the

62nd Alcoholics Anonymous

General Service Conference held

April 22-28, 2012 in New York City

Prepare your Delegate (Angie E.) for the Conference by

sharing your Group’s Voice!!

The ACTION of the Twelve Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous and of carrying THIS message …

The "suggestions" in the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous are things I MUST do if I wish to obtain and maintain a spiritual way of life without drinking. It is like this: These are "suggestions" in the same way as if I am in an airplane about to jump because it will crash land (like me before sobriety) "it is 'suggested' that I pull the rip cord."

The authors of the book Alcoholics Anonymous say in another section - These are the things we DID to obtain and maintain sobriety. They don't say "Don't drink and go to meetings."

If that had worked for me I wouldn't have needed the 12 Steps. Or meetings or a sponsor to guide my way or service work or any of those things.

They say get into action if you want what we have.

Meaning THE action of the Twelve Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous and of carrying THIS message.

Another AA friend says the book tells us to chase drunks and by that he means get out here in the real world.

Going to a meeting where the drunks already are, is not finding the "man/woman" who still suffers.

Anonymous

If you are going to pray, don’t worry.

If you are going to worry, don’t pray.

… from AAGrapevine Online forum

Recently an AA member shared that he visited someone he knew in a hospital bed, suffering from alcoholism. He stated that the first thing he said to the patient was "ARE YOU READY YET?"

This approach did not work. The patient was drunk the day after release from the hospital. When we visit someone on " a twelfth step call," we are doing it to preserve our own sobriety. We only ask for a few minutes of the patient's time, and share our own story, what we were like, what happened and what we are like now. Thank them for their time and exit, leaving a meeting schedule and a phone number where you can be reached.

It really is that simple, and how can we go wrong if we just share own story. I do believe that we are responsible to always have the hand of AA available when an alcoholic approaches us. But that hand does not have to be my own personal hand.

We are responsible to insure that an AA meeting is available and that the meeting is conducted properly.

There are many ways we can be of service to our fellow alcoholic, but I am convinced that showing up for a meeting is the greatest.

Anonymous -

There is a Solution

"Our very lives, as ex-problem drinkers, depend upon our constant thought of others and how we may help meet their needs."

Alcoholics Anonymous, 4th Edition, There Is A Solution, pg. 20

DISTRICT 24 NEWSLETTER APRIL 2012 5

CCAARRRRYY TTHHIISS MMEESSSSAAGGEE: twelfth step service in district 24

TREATMENT FACILITIES CORRECTIONAL FACILITIES

SCOTT COUNTY JAIL in Shakopee

Women’s Meeting: Every Sunday at 7:00P.M. Men’s Meeting: Every Monday and Thursday at 7:00P.M.

1. Apply! Application available on www.district24aa.org and www.scottvolunteers.com.

2. 1ST ORIENTATION: Located in Room 205 at the Govt Center, 200- 4th Ave.W., Shakopee with Jane Wiley (952-496-8169):

Tuesday, April 17, 6:30–7:55P.M. Tuesday, May 8, 6:30–7:55P.M.

3. 2ND ORIENTATION: First Thursday of every month.

When your background check has been approved, you may attend the 2nd orientation at the jail, located at:

301 Fuller Street So., Shakopee, MN

4. To get on the Shakopee Jail AA Meeting Schedule, contact:

Men: contact Mike M. Women: contact Annette W. or email: corrections@district24aa.org

Any questions about Scott County Volunteering: Contact Jane Wiley - 952-496-8169 or jwiley@co.scott.mn.us

CARVER COUNTY JAIL in Chaska

Women’s Meeting: Every Sunday at 7:00P.M. Men’s Meeting: Every Monday at 7:00P.M.

Keith Johnson, #552, Detention Deputy/Jail Programs Carver County Jail, 606 East Fourth Street, Chaska, MN Phone: 952-361-1157 Email: kjohnson@co.carver.mn.us

To get on the Carver Jail Meeting Schedule, contact: Mike K. or at Five Star Recovery Center, Chaska

LESUEUR COUNTY JAIL in LeCenter

Men’s Meeting: Every Thursday at 7:00P.M.

!!SOBER MEN WANTED!!

LeSueur County Jail 88 South Park Ave., Le Center, MN 56057

Phone: (507) 357-8545 We have permission from District 9 to monitor the LeSueur County Jail AA meeting, and have been met enthusiastically by the Le Sueur County Jailers!

Contact Marty T. dcm@district24aa.org

PINK CAN PLAN REPORT 03-10-2012: Financial reserves of the Pink Can Plan are getting critically low. The balance at this time is $2,083.

In 2011, we distributed about $3,300/month to correctional facilities in So. MN Area 36.

In 2011, we shipped $3,404 more literature (ordered from correctional facilities) than contributions received.

This year to date, we have already shipped $3,308 more literature than contributions received.

I have had the privilege to coordinate the Pink Can Plan for the past two plus years. In that time, I have been able to ship every request for literature at the time is was requested. With the Membership’s support, I am confident I will be able to continue to do so.

Yours In Service, Fran O. Pink Can Plan Coordinator- Southern MN Area 36

pinkcanplan@area36.org

treatment@district24aa.org (713-249-3623)

The District 24 Treatment Committee has established a weekly meeting on Saturday mornings at 8:30. Five Stars Recovery in Chaska has graciously allowed their facility to be used for this meeting. All are welcome to attend and participate in outreach to the Treatment Community.

The Treatment Facilities Committee is starting a New AA Meeting at the new Sugar Creek facility, 1057 Stoughton Ave., Chaska, focusing on Steps 1, 2, 3 and a monthly Speaker at 7pm starting Monday, April 2, 2012 (continuing on Mondays).

Currently we are raising funds for the placement of literature racks in the Hazelden and Sugar Creek facilities. The cost of the racks with literature is $100 each. We are approaching this as a pledge drive type of format. The Monday Night group at St. John's had pledged $25 and issued a challenge to the area groups however any pledge will be accepted and greatly appreciated. Please contact one of the Committee members listed below.

Pat J Lance K. Brian G Mike K. Peter E.

We are honored to serve you. Yours In Service,

Pat J. Treatment Facilities Committee Chair - District 24, Southern MN Area 36

treatment@district24aa.org

LIFESTYLES 14162 Commerce Ave. NE, Ste 400, Prior Lake, MN 2nd Tuesday of Every Month (952) 447-1117

A. .A. Information Talks (morning & evening) Coordinator: Lisa O. - Sign up at SATURDAY MORNING MEETING at Lakers Alano

THE HAVEN 2042 Wooddale Dr., Ste. 220, Woodbury, MN 2nd Thursday of Every Month (651) 734-9633 A. .A. Information Talks (already scheduled by staff) Coordinator: Jason T. - Sign up at participating AA mtgs in Shakopee

FIVE STAR RECOVERY 102 East 2nd St., Ste 110B, Chaska, MN 3rd Wednesday of Every Month (952) 447-1117

A.A. Information Talks (morning & evening Sign up at participating Five Star meetings in Chaska

COCHRAN RECOVERY CENTER 1294 East 18th St. Bldg 1 Hastings 3rd Saturday of Every Month (651) 437-4209 www.detoxone.org

Sign up at Monday 6pm SAVAGE UNITY A.A. in Savage

HASTINGS DETOX 1294 East 18th St. Bldg 1 Hastings, MN (651) 437-4209 www.detoxone.org

4th Saturday of Every Month

Coordinator: John R.- Lakers Alano meetings in Prior Lake. We will meet at Prior Lake Lakers parking lot, 4646 Colorado Street, Prior Lake, at 5:45pm on the 4th Saturday of every month. We will return to Lakers by 8:45pm.

Our neighbors who reside in Scott County and are having serious trouble with alcohol are most likely taken to the Hastings Detox Facility to detoxify under medical supervision.

The Hastings Detox is in constant need of AA literature. If your Group would like to donate literature – AA Big Books, 12x12s, Grapevine magazines or books or even a Grapevine subscription to the Hastings Detox, you can be assured that the donation would be very well utilized.

If your Group is interested in making a commitment to bring an AA meeting into Hastings Detox, you can contact Pat J., our District 24 Treatment Facilities Chair at treatment@district24aa.org.

6 APRIL 2012 DISTRICT 24 NEWSLETTER

PRACTICE THESE PRINCIPLES 12 TRADITIONS checklist tradition four

“Each Group should be autonomous except in matters affecting other Groups or AA as a whole.”

1. Do I insist that there are only a few right ways of doing things in

AA?

2. Does my group always consider the welfare of the rest of AA?

Of nearby groups? Of Loners in Alaska? Of Internationalists

miles from port? Of a group in Rome or El Salvador?

3. Do I put down other members' behavior when it is different from

mine, or do I learn from it?

4. Do I always bear in mind that, to those outsiders who know I am

in AA, I may to some extent represent our entire beloved

Fellowship?

5. Am I willing to help a newcomer go to any lengths-his lengths,

not mine-to stay sober?

6. Do I share my knowledge of AA tools with other members who

may not have heard of them?

These questions were originally published in the A.A. Grapevine in conjunction with a series on the Twelve Traditions that began in November 1969 and ran through September 1971. While they were originally intended primarily for individual use, many A.A. groups have since used them as a basis for wider discussion.

Reprinted with permission of The A.A. Grapevine, Inc.

next month: tradition five: “Each group has but one primary purpose – to carry its message to the alcoholic that still

suffers. ”

FROM THE AA CONCEPTS CHECKLIST SSeerrvviiccee MMaatteerr iiaall ff rroomm tthhee General Service Office

AA sseerrvviiccee ppiieeccee ffoorr Home Groups, Districts, Areas

12 CONCEPTS checklist concept four

“At all responsible levels, we ought to maintain a traditional “Right of Participation,” allowing a voting

representation in reasonable proportion to the responsibility that each must discharge.”

1. Do we understand the spiritual principles underlying the Right

of Participation?

2. What does in reasonable proportion mean? Do we understand

when it is appropriate for A.A. paid staff to have a vote at the

General Service Conference or in our local service structure?

3. Do we expect that, because we are A.A. members, we should

be allowed to vote at any Group, even if we are not active

members of that Group?

Rev.7/1/02 Retrieved from www.aa.org

Add’l information about the Concepts can be found in The A.A. Service Manual/Twelve Concepts for World Service and The Twelve Concepts

Illustrated pamphlet.

next month: concept five: “Throughout our st ructure, a tradi t ional “Right of Appeal ought to prevai l , so that minori ty opin ion wi l l be heard and personal

grievances receive careful considerat ion. ”

SSOOMMEE FFOOUURRTTHH SSTTEEPP PPRRAAYYEERRSS ((AAAA BBiigg BBooookk,, ppggss.. 6644--6688))

Pre-Inventory Prayer:

"God, please help me to honestly take stock. Help me to search out the flaws in my make-up which caused my failure. Help me to see where resentment has plagued me and resulted in spiritual malady, but more importantly help me to understand my part in these resentments. Help me to resolutely look for my own mistakes and to understand where I had been selfish, dishonest, self-seeking and frightened. Please help me to be searching and fearless in my endeavor to write my inventory." (p. 64:2, 64:3, 67:2)

4th Step Resentment Prayer:

"God, Please help me to be free of anger and to see that the world and its people have dominated me. Show me that the wrong-doing of others, fancied or real, has the power to actually kill me. Help me to master my resentments by understanding that the people who wrong me were perhaps spiritually sick. Please help me show those I resent the same Tolerance, Pity and Patience that I would cheerfully grant a sick friend. Help me to see that this is a sick man. Father, please show me how I can be helpful to him and save me from being angry. Lord, help me to avoid retaliation or argument. I know I can’t be helpful to all people, but at least show me how to take a kindly and tolerant view of each and every one. Thy will be done."(66:2, 66:3, 66:4, 67:0, 67:1)

Fear Prayer:

"God, thank you for helping me be honest enough to see this truth about myself and now that you have shown me the truth about my fears, please remove these fears from me. Lord, please help me outgrow my fears and direct my attention to what you would have me be. Father, demonstrate through me and help me become that which you would have me be. Help me do thy will always, Amen."(68:3)

~ CALLING ALL MEMBERS ~ Do you have a wicked case of alcoholism?

Have you been rocketed to the fourth dimension? Does being a newcomer freak you out?

Are you an experienced member with oceans of wisdom? Do you get frustrated with all of this “God Stuff?”

Have you had a vital experience that you’ve absolutely got to share? Is your Sponsor the most awesome person that you know?

Does your Sponsor make you want to stab yourself in the eye with a fork?

The District 24 newsletter encourages A.A. members to speak their voices and allow others’ voices to be heard. We have one common solution; we experience it in a hundred different ways. It is our hope that by opening a shared channel of communication among members – men and women, young and old, newcomers and oldtimers, untreated and restored to sanity – we can more effectively serve each other and alcoholics still outside the rooms of Alcoholics Anonymous.

Whatever is on your positive and spiritual mind , please write about it and send to: newsletter@district24aa.org.

Heard At the Recovery, Unity & Service Conference

Go to Traditions meetings. Those are going to save Alcoholics Anonymous from us.

Ann A.

Also Heard At the Recovery, Unity & Service Conference

As Bill W. said, ―AA is not a success story. Rather, it’s the chronicle of our colossal human failure turned into usefulness by

the divine grace and outcome of a loving god.” Again …. From Ann A.

DISTRICT 24 NEWSLETTER APRIL 2012 7

Southern Minnesota Area 36 DISTRICT 24 MEETING MINUTES March 5, 2012

opening Meeting was called to order at 7:05 PM. with the Declaration of Unity. Introductions were made. There were 11 GSRs and 0 Alt. GSRs in attendance, a total of 20 people at the meeting. Mike M. presented Concept three. Bart K. volunteered for Concept four presentation at the next District meeting.

officer reports SECRETARY Amy A.: Asked GSR's to state their last initial when giving reports. TREASURER Wanda H.: Beginning balance $1,499.22 Group contributions $99.44. Prudent reserve $250.00 Available balance $1,259.86. ALT D.C.M. Ron B.: Annette W. printed off papers to help GSR's. Report is in the newsletter. D.C.M. Marty T.: Spoke on respect and how it affects group. Asked D24 members to put phones away. Encouraged participation at meetings that

discuss possible workshops.

Service Presentation Annette W. presented examples of GSR reports. First to the group, second for the GSR sharing time at D24 meetings. some things discussed

were: Be sure your report includes all information. not just things you are interested. Encourage all people to attend. Be sure to write group GSO registration number on check when sending group contribution to GSO and Area 36.

new business Two new proposals from So. MN. are 36 structure committee. 1. The Area Inventory may be facilitated by an AA member familiar with AA inventories and who has no active role in Area 36 General Service. 2. The Alternate Delegate is assigned overall responsibility for the annual Trusted Servants Leadership Training (TSLT) event. Marty T. gave a general explanation of an Are Committee Meeting. 4 meetings a year. All people should attend and many carpool.

g.s.r. sharing CARVER CHURCH BY THE RIVER Sun 11am (Big Book/12X12) Kent H.: Donations to Gopher State Roundup; discussion about the Grapevine. CHASKA EARLY RISERS Mon 9:00am (As Bill Sees It) Paul Q.: May contribute to Gopher State but not enough funds to contribute to all four entities. CHASKA MONDAY NIGHT Mon 7:00pm (Step and Tradition) Vicky L.: Contributes to suite for Gopher State Roundup. Contributes to literature racks.

Supporting men's inpatient treatment. CHASKA SUNDAY SERENITY Sun 9:00am (Big Book) Bart K.: Currently a steering committee. No group service commitments as of yet. Contributes to all

4 service entities. CHASKA BROTHERS OF AA Tues 7:30pm (Big Book) Pete S.: First step meeting and off topic meeting for those struggling. Cross talk discussed in

group conscience. Found solution to announcements taking too long. A few members show interest in service at the new Hazelden in Chaska. CHASKA WORTHY WOMEN’S BIG BOOK STUDY Wed. 7:00pm (Big Book): Amy N.: Involved in Adopt-A-Hotel, Carver and Scott county jail

meetings, Pink Can Plan. First Thur. each month bring AA into Pride in Eden Prairie. Agenda passed each week for group conscience items. Due for inventory. Child care provided.

CHASKA RIVER VALLEY AA Thurs. 11:00am (Open mixed Step/Tradition/Discussion/Speaker) Steve O.: Group Conscious monthly. Contributes to all 4 entities. AA info talk monthly to Five Star Recovery Center. Bowling each Saturday at 9:00 Louisville Lanes. NEW PRAGUE SERENITY SEEKERS Sat 10:00am (Step/Tradition and As Bill Sees It) Mary E.:. Low attendance at group conscious meetings. PRIOR LAKE LAKERS TUES NIGHT Tues 6:30pm (Open Topic/Step) Mike M.: Group conscious as needed. Typical service positions filled. First

step meeting to newcomers. St. Sober Day Sat. March 17th party/potluck 6:00 PRIOR LAKE LAKERS SAT MORNING Sat 9:30am (Step/Topic)Brian B.: Group Conscious twice a year. First step meeting. 40 people average.

Newcomers are given Big Book and 12x12. AA info. talk to Lifestyle Treatment Center. Meetings to Hastings detox. Typical service positions filled. First Sat. of month offer a women's meeting.

SHAKOPEE BRIDGES GROUP Mon 7:00pm (open step/tradition) Andy M.: Speaker this month. First step meeting. Group conscious monthly. Need new business card stickers. Will volunteer for Gopher State hospitality suite. Haven and Intergroup phone service. Typical service positions filled.

committee reports COOPERATION WITH THE PROFESSIONAL COMMUNITY (C.P.C.) Paul Q.: AA info packet, Big Book & meeting directory to clergy in our district.

Contacted 4 church's so far. Bountiful Basket Food Shelf in new location and stock is still good there. Booth March 14 & 15 at MN. Social Service Association (MSSA). Scott County fair planning in near future.

CORRECTIONS Annette W.: Sunday March 18 for women's meeting in Newsletter. Needs updated attendance info. Spoke with Fran O. cannot bring used Grapevine's in jails. Women in jail need correspondence.

NEWSLETTER Annette W.: Added a letter from a gal in the Scott County Jail. Wants to add social events section. Calendar of events is easier to read. Service opportunity section will be in newsletter next month.

TREATMENT FACILITIES Pat J.: Spoke with Ben P. about literature rack and meetings in Chaska area. Much needed help with this committee would be appreciated. Pat's correct information. pwjohnson@gmail.com 713-249-3623

PUBLIC INFORMATION (P.I.) Annette W.: Wallet-sized directories are ready. Printing cost: @16 cents a piece. GRAPEVINE M a r y E .: Still learning about new service position. Asked if there are funds available from D24 to subscribe to Grapevine. WEB Jen M.: Paid bill! GROUP OUTREACH Vicky L.: Visited various groups in Prior Lake. Any change in group information please let her know! ARCHIVES Kent H.: Put together a booklet on service structure of D24 and a draft copy of original Big Book. All archives info is caught up! Intergroup Liaison Kristine M: Shared on various service opportunities, budget & contribution information. Spoke about a lot of new information

regarding specific meetings and events. Check the Intergroup website for more information.

closing Closed with the Responsibility Statement at 9:15.PM. Amy A., Secretary

secretary@district24aa.org

8 APRIL 2012 DISTRICT 24 NEWSLETTER

DISTRICT 24 CONTACT LIST

Questions? Service Opportunity Announcements? Do You Want to Get Involved?

Please feel free to contact any officer or committee chair listed below. What Does A.A. Do?

1. A.A. members share their experience with anyone seeking help with a drinking problem; they give person-to-person service or ―sponsorship‖ to the alcoholic coming to A.A. from any source.

2. The A.A. program, set forth in our Twelve Steps, offers the alcoholic a way to develop a satisfying life without alcohol.

3. This program is discussed at A.A. group meetings.

a. Open speaker meetings — open to alcoholics and nonalcoholics. (Attendance at an open A.A. meeting is the best way to learn what A.A. is, what it does, and what it does not do.) At speaker meetings, A.A. members ―tell their stories.‖

They describe their experiences with alcohol, how they came to A.A., and how their lives have changed as a result of Alcoholics Anonymous.

b. Open discussion meetings — one member speaks briefly about his or her drinking experience, and then leads a discussion on A.A. recovery or any drinking-related problem anyone brings up. (Closed meetings are for A.A.s or anyone who may have a drinking problem.)

c. Closed discussion meetings — conducted just as open discussions are, but for alcoholics or prospective A.A.s only.

d. Step meetings (usually closed) — discussion of one of the Twelve Steps.

e. A.A. members also take meetings into correctional and treatment facilities.

f. A.A. members may be asked to conduct the informational meetings

Position Name Email

DCM Marty T. dcm@district24aa.org

Alt. DCM Ron B. adcm@district24aa.org

Treasurer Wanda H. treasurer@district24aa.org

Secretary Amy K. secretary@district24aa.org

Archives Kent H. archives@district24aa.org

CPC Paul Q. cpc@district24aa.org

Corrections

Carver County Jail

Scott County Jail

LeSueur County Jail

Mike K.

(Carver Jail -

Men and Women)

corrections@district24aa.org

Mike M.

(Scott Jail –Men)

corrections@district24aa.org

Annette W.

(Scott Jail – Women)

corrections@district24aa.org

Marty T.

(LeSueur Jail –Men)

dcm@district24aa.org

Grapevine Mary E. grapevine@district24aa.org

Group Outreach Vicky L. outreach@district24aa.org

Group Records Vicky L. grouprecords@district24aa.org

Newsletter Annette W. newsletter@district24aa.org

Public Information Open Open

Treatment Facilities Pat J. treatment@district24aa.org

Website Jen M. webmaster@district24aa.org

What Does A.A. Do?

1. A.A. members share their experience with anyone seeking help with a drinking problem; they give person-to-person service or ―sponsorship‖ to the alcoholic coming to A.A. from any source.

2. The A.A. program, set forth in our Twelve Steps, offers the alcoholic a way to develop a satisfying life without alcohol.

3. This program is discussed at A.A. group meetings.

a. Open speaker meetings — open to alcoholics and nonalcoholics. (Attendance at an open A.A. meeting is the best way to learn what A.A. is, what it does, and what it does not do.) At speaker meetings, A.A. members ―tell their stories.‖

They describe their experiences with alcohol, how they came to A.A., and how their lives have changed as a result of Alcoholics Anonymous.

b. Open discussion meetings — one member speaks briefly about his or her drinking experience, and then leads a discussion on A.A. recovery or any drinking-related problem anyone brings up. (Closed meetings are for A.A.s or anyone who may have a drinking problem.)

c. Closed discussion meetings — conducted just as open discussions are, but for alcoholics or prospective A.A.s only.

d. Step meetings (usually closed) — discussion of one of the Twelve Steps.

e. A.A. members also take meetings into correctional and treatment facilities.

f. A.A. members may be asked to conduct the informational meetings about A.A. as a part of A.S.A.P. (Alcohol Safety Action Project) and D.W.I. (Driving While Intoxicated) programs. These meetings about A.A. are not regular A.A. group meetings.

What A.A. Does Not Do

A.A. does not:

1. Furnish initial motivation for alcoholics to recover

2. Solicit members

3. Engage in or sponsor research

4. Keep attendance records or case histories

5. Join ―councils‖ of social agencies

6. Follow up or try to control its members

7. Make medical or psychological diagnoses or prognoses

8. Provide drying-out or nursing services, hospitalization, drugs, or

any medical or psychiatric treatment.

9. Offer religious services or host/sponsor retreats.

10. Engage in education about alcohol

11. Provide housing, food, clothing, jobs, money, or any other welfare

or social services.

12. Provide domestic or vocational counseling

13. Accept any money for its services, or any contributions from non-

A.A. sources.

14. Provide letters of reference to parole boards, lawyers, court

officials, social agencies, employers, etc.

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If your Group does not currently have a G.S.R., elect one to represent your Group’s voice at the District level and in turn to A.A. as a whole!

No experience required; we will train. The District meeting is a Fellowship Sharing Opportunity for 12th step contacts and information.

Everyone is welcome to attend!

We meet the 1st

Monday of each month, 7:00 pm – 9:00pm at: St. John’s Lutheran Church, 119 – 8

th Ave. West (corner of 8

th & Fuller Streets), Shakopee, MN

FELLOWSHIP and the CONSCIENCE

of all of the Groups that conduct AA meetings within Scott County and Eastern Carver County

History of District 24 …. Did’ya Know?? The first Disrict Meeting never happened due to unforeseen circumstances. The District meeting had 3 homes:

1st – Shakopee City Hall which was free! 2nd – Shakopee Community Center which was free! 3rd – St. John’s where it was decided to start paying rent (self-support)

Used to have a smoke break in the middle of the District meeting Practiced 7th tradition collections at the table until the District went dark Used to meet on the 1st Tuesdays, voted to move to 2nd Tuesdays, and then

ceased to exist Used to have a District calling (business) card Adopted District 17s financial policy in the beginning Received contributions from Districts 17 and 7 to get District 24 started