2015 EDITION

AA Principles of the Month Step 7 - Humbly asked Him to remove our shortcomings.

Tradition 7 (long form) - The A.A. groups themselves ought to be fully supported by the voluntary contributions of their own members. We think that each group should soon achieve this ideal; that any public solicitation of funds using the name of Alcoholics Anonymous is highly dangerous, whether by groups, clubs, hospitals, or other outside agencies; that acceptance of large gifts from any source, or of contributions carrying any obligation whatever, is unwise. Then, too, we view with much concern those A.A. treasuries which continue, beyond prudent reserves, to accumulate funds for no stated A.A. purpose. Experience has often warned us that nothing can so surely destroy our spiritual heritage as futile disputes over property, money, and authority.

Concept VII - The Charter and Bylaws of the General Service Board are legal instruments, empowering the trustees to manage and conduct world service affairs. The Conference Charter is not a legal document; it relies upon tradition and the A.A. purse for final effectiveness.

The Happy, Joyous, & Free Press

In this Issue …..

Opening Flag Ceremony, Internet access p. 2 A Message from CDCO p. 2 Calendar of Events p. 3 AREA Event Flyers: Sept., Oct., & Nov. p. 4 More Calendar Events p. 4 NYSIW Registration Flyer p. 5 HMB Convention Registration Flyer p. 6 ‘Archway to Freedom’ p. 7 April and May Treasurer Reports p. 8 Area Reports pp. 9-16 Northeast Regional Forum Report p. 17 AA History in July p. 18 Word Scramble/ June Solution p. 19

Tradition 7 Checklist

1. Honestly now, do I do all I can to help AA (my group, my central office, my GSO) remain self-supporting? Could I put a little more into the basket on behalf of the new guy who can't afford it yet? How generous was I when tanked in a barroom?

2. Should the Grapevine sell advertising space to book publishers and drug companies, so it could make a big profit and become a bigger magazine, in full color, at a cheaper price per copy?

3. If GSO runs short of funds some year, wouldn't it be okay to let the government subsidize AA groups in hospitals and prisons?

4. Is it more important to get a big AA collection from a few people, or a smaller collection in which more members participate?

5. Is a group treasurer's report unimportant AA business? How does the treasurer feel about it?

6. How important in my recovery is the feeling of self-respect, rather than the feeling of being always under obligation for charity received?

Copyright © by A.A. Grapevine, Inc.; reprinted w/permission

Concept 7 Checklist

1. Do we act responsibly regarding the “power of the purse?”

2. Do we realize that the practical and spiritual power of the Conference will nearly always be superior to the legal power of the G.S.B.?

- Reprinted with permission of A.A. World Services, Inc.

Mission: The HMB Newsletter is published to foster unity and provide communications among AA members, groups, districts & the GSO.

Victor E. made his

debut in the July, 1962 Grapevine.See page 2.

Hudson | Mohawk | Berkshire Area 48 www.aahmbny.org July 2015 Edition

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The HMB Area 48 Newsletter is published monthly, except for the combined December & January Issues.

A Message from the….. Capital District Central Office (CDCO) 575 Broadway - Room 128

Menands, NY 12204 www.aaalbanyny.org

A couple of months ago the Capital District Central Office received a large donation of past issues of A.A.’s “meeting in print,” the Grapevine. The donation was made in the name of Alma R., a long-time member of A.A. in Troy who passed away a year and one half ago. The Grapevines, many of them in binders, are on display at the Central Office. In addition to the Grapevines, the Office also has a large number of cassette tapes of A.A. talks and presentations from past Conventions and service events that were donated by A.A. members who were moving out of the Capital District. Members are invited to come in and breeze through these tapes and the Grapevines.

“The creation of Jack M., a Grapevine editor, Victor E. made his debut in the July 1962 Grapevine. For more than forty years, Victor has stood before the saloon, looking longingly past its swinging doors, but every time his Higher Power has intervened and kept him from drinking. Some readers wonder how strong Victor E.’s sobriety is, since he keeps showing up at a bar. Others feel he is no different from any other alcoholic facing this cunning and baffling disease. Whatever his shortcomings and however strong his desire to drink, Victor E. hasn’t picked up a drink in all these years. And that’s how he earns his name. Victor still appears in the magazine from time to time.” - Reprinted with permission from “A Guide to AA Grapevine,” p. 12

“Victor E. is not a single AA member with forty-two years of sobriety, he is all of us. ... [T]he bar is not a bar at all; it is all of the things we bump into, day-to-day, that could get us to resume our destructive behavior with alcohol.” - Dennis O., P.O. Box 1980 – letter, April 2000

July 1964 Grapevine

2015 International Convention’s Opening Flag Ceremony

One of the highlights of each International Convention is the parade of flags of those countries

represented at the Convention, which takes place at the Opening Meeting on Friday evening. For the 2015 International Convention there will be access to an encrypted, anonymity-protected Internet broadcast.which will be available through G.S.O.’s A.A. website (www.aa.org). Access through this link page will be made available on Saturday morning, July 4th and end on Monday, July 6th at midnight (U.S. Eastern Time).  This allows unlimited access within a time frame and no passwords or access codes will be required.

The story of Grapevine’s VICTOR E…

Hudson | Mohawk | Berkshire Area 48 www.aahmbny.org July 2015 Edition

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To view all upcoming HMB Area 48 Event FLYERS and District event flyers, as well as directions and maps, please view the Area website: www.aahmbny.org.

DATE EVENT HOST/ location

July 2-5 International Convention Atlanta, Georgia

August 14-16NYS Informational

WorkshopSENY - Area 49

September 12 Fellowship Day Eastern Cluster: District 2 (1 & 18)

October 11 Area Assembly Central Cluster: District 4 (8 & 14)

November 6-8 HMB Convention Central Cluster: District 8(Districts 4 & 14)

November 14 Fellowship Day Western Cluster: District 12 (& 9)

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District 5: Is hosting a ‘Traditions Study’ on the 3rd Friday of each month from 6:30pm - 7:30pm at the Jonesville United Methodist Church, 963 Main Street, Jonesville. Future dates: July 17, August 21 & Sept. 18. For info contact: servicedevelopmentdist5@gmail.com.

District 8: Is hosting ‘AA Day of Fellowship’ on Saturday, June

27, 8:30am - 1:30pm at the First United Presbyterian Church (Red Door Church), 381 Main St., Oneonta. There will be six speakers on Traditions 1, 5, and 12. This is a free event, including coffee and light lunch. Any questions, contact:

District 18: Is hosting its annual ‘Independence Day Picnic’ on Saturday, July 4, from Noon to 5:00pm at Schodack Town Park, 498 Poyneer Rd., Nassau, off Route 150. There will be a 50/50 raffle, food, music, and a speaker meeting at 4pm. Suggested donation $5. Please bring a dish to share.

District 5: Is hosting its Annual Summer Picnic on Sunday, July 12, from Noon to 6pm, at the Saratoga Springs State Park Orenda Pavilion, Saratoga Springs. There will be a speaker meeting at 3pm and hot dogs, hamburgers, cold drinks and coffee. Bring a dish to share. Interested in doing service, email d5functions@gmail.com.

District 3: Is hosting its annual picnic on Saturday, July 18, from 10am - 4pm at the Cairo Town Park, Cairo. There will be food and drinks, a guest speaker and a raffle.

ESCYPAA II & HVYPAA The Young People of A.A. are hosting ‘A Burning Desire Bonfire’ from July 31 - August 2, at the Rip Van Winkle Campground, 149 Blue Mountain Road, Saugerties. Per night camping is $14.00. Pre-Register today for $10.00. Visit their website for more information and flyers at www.hvypaa.com or email Jay at chair@hvypaa.com, or John at outrach@hvypaa.com.

District 10: Hosting its ‘14th Annual Friends of Bill W. Picnic’ on Sunday, August 2, from 10am - til ? at Pointe Au Roche State Park Beach Pavilion off 19 Camp Red Cloud Road, Plattsburgh. There is a speaker meeting at 4pm, food, bike & walking trails, swimming, music, and more. Parking is $7 per carload, walk or bike in for free.

ESCYPAA II: The Young People of A.A. are hosting their Second Annual ‘Empire State Convention’ on August 21 - 23, 2015 at the Riverside Radisson Hotel, Rochester, NY. Pre-registration is $20. Go online at www.escypaaii.org to pre-register and for hotel and conference information.** MORE EVENTS LISTED ON PAGE 4

2015 HMB AREA 48 SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

Hudson | Mohawk | Berkshire Area 48 www.aahmbny.org July 2015 Edition

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HMB Area 48 November Fellowship Day

Saturday, November 14th

Our Savior Lutheran Church 1640 Genesee St., Utica, NY 13520 (Parking behind church)

Hosted by District 12 and the Western Cluster

Last Fellowship Day of 2015!

! Tentative Agenda 9:00-10:00 - Meet and greet 10:00-11:00 - Committee Meetings 11:00-12:00 - Host Panel du Jour 12:00-1:00 - Lunch 1:00-3:00 - Area Business Meeting and Reports

Fellowship Days are open to all members - A day of gathering as an Area to share how the message is being carried…

For more info contact althmbchair@aahmbny.org From the South:

Take the I-87 N ramp toward Albany.Take EXIT 31 toward Utica/I-790/ NY-8/NY-12.Keep left to take the Genesee Street S ramp toward Downtown Utica. Merge onto North Genesee Street. Go through roundabout. 1640 GENESEE Street is on the right.Your destination is just past Derbyshire Pl. If you reach Burrstone Rd. you've gone a little too far.

D I R E C T I O N S

From the North:

Follow Route 12 South. Take exit toward Burrstone Rd/Utica College. Turn slight right onto Burrstone Road. Turn Left onto Genesee Street. 1640 Genesee Street will be on the left.

HMB Area 48 October Assembly

Hosted by Districts 4, 8 & 14

Sunday October 11, 2015

Florida Town Hall

167 Fort Hunter Road

Amsterdam, NY 12019

9 am-3 pm

7th Tradition Lunch will be provided

Tentative Agenda:

• Area Business Meeting & Reports

• 2016 Final Budget Presentation & Vote

• Discussion and voting on any proposals

Info Contact: althmbchair@aahmbny.org

!

Area 48 Election Assembly Saturday September 12, 2015

9AM – 3PM Hosted By District 2/Eastern Cluster

Location: Prince of Peace Lutheran Church 426 3rd Ave Troy, NY 12182

Tentative Agenda: • Area Committee Meetings – Election of Committee Chairpersons • Election of Area Officers – Area Chair/Alt Delegate, Alt Area Chair,

Treasurer, Secretary • Area Business Meeting (Time permitting)

Seventh Tradition Lunch will be provided

For Directions and any other information contact your Alternate Area Chair at: althmbchair@aahmbny.org

HMB Area 48 September Assembly

District 16: Hosting its Annual Picnic on Sunday, August 16, from10am - 5pm, at the Saugerties Cantine Field (large Pavilion), Pavilion Street, Saugerties. Hot dogs, hamburgers, snacks, soft drinks and water are provided. Food served at 12 and a speaker at 2pm. District 14: Hosting its ‘25th Annual Day of Unity Picnic’ on Sat., August 22, 10am - 4pm at the Beukendaal Temple, 22 Schonowee Ave., Scotia. There will be food, fun, & fellowship with meetings at 11 & 3, and much more!District 17: Hosting a picnic on Sunday, August 30, from 11am - 4pm, at Roe-Jan Park, 9140 Route 22, Hillsdale. There will be both an AA and Al-Anon speaker, DJ, and literature being raffled off. Please bring a dish to share.District 7: SAVE THE DATE : Saturday evening, September 12, ‘Cruise with no Booze’ on Rip Van Winkle. More info soon.

Capital District Central Office (CDCO) Please join us at our monthly business meeting, Tuesday, July 21, at 7 p.m., at the Schuyler Inn, Room #130, Menands. We are looking for some new volunteers!

MORE UPCOMING CALENDAR EVENTS…

Hudson | Mohawk | Berkshire Area 48 www.aahmbny.org July 2015 Edition

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ANY QUESTIONS OR SUGGESTIONS CAN BE EMAILED TO NYSIW@AASENY.ORG

The New York State Information Workshop is an educational sharing forum for the purpose of carrying the A.A. message through our General Services Committees. We meet annually with the four General Service Areas in New York State, to share our experiences with the most effective ways to do our 12th Step Work.

This event is open to all who wish to learn about carrying the A.A. message, through their Home Groups, Districts, and Area General Service Committees. If your serve on a Committee, or would like to, this event will be of great interest to you!

2015 NEW YORK STATEINFORMATIONAL WORKSHOPHOSTED BY SENY AREA 49

WHEN

FRIDAY, AUGUST 14TH TO SUNDAY, AUGUST 16TH, 2015

WHERE

STORM KING SCHOOL314 MOUNTAIN ROAD,CORNWALL-ON-HUDSON, NY 12520

WHAT

PANELS & ROUND TABLES ON EACH AREA OF SERVICE, A SPEAKER FROM GSO, ENTERTAINMENT & AA MEETINGS

Name:

Address:

City, State, Zip:

Tel:

Email:

Service Position(s):

Area (47,48,49,50, other):

Amount Enclosed:

WEEKEND ACCOMMODATIONS:

$170 Lodging with Friday dinner through Sunday breakfast

$20 Saturday only with lunch

$35 Saturday only with lunch & dinner

Dietary Restrictions:

Accessibility/Special Needs:

Note: All rooms are double occupancy. Please contact with any special needs. (Personal Checks or Money Order only) Make Payable to: SENY-NYSIW

Send Registration to: NYSIW@SENY, PO Box 571, New York, NY, 10116-0571Hospitality Donations may also be sent to NYSIW@SENY, PO Box 571, New York, NY, 10116-0571

REGISTRATION FORM

For more information visit NYSIW.org

Or register online at NYSIW.org

On the website you will find:

- Lodging information for hotels- Two on-site lodging choices- Two weekend-long meal choices- Two day registration choice

Hudson | Mohawk | Berkshire Area 48 www.aahmbny.org July 2015 Edition

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HMB Area 48 Convention November 6-8, 2015 “Celebrating LXXX Years of Unity, Recovery, & Service”

Holiday Inn State Highway 23

Oneonta, NY 13820 Convention Room Rate: $99.00 plus tax per night

Deadline for reservations: October 6, 2015

Hotel Reservations

Online Reservations: Go to: www.http://www.hioneonta.com/

Select dates (11/6-11/8) - Enter group code “HMB”

Click “Submit” By Phone: (800) 465-4329

When reserving rooms, use code “HMB” for Convention Rate.

Name: __________________________________

Address: _________________________________

City/State/Zip: ____________________________

Phone: __________________________________

Email: ___________________________________

AA ____ Al-Anon ____ Other ________________

Old-timer with 25+ Years? (Circle One) Yes No

_______ Convention Registration.………………..$20.00

_______ Banquet ….……….…………………………….$35.00

Check one: Broccoli & Cheese Stuffed Chicken ( ) London Broil( ) Pasta Primavera ( ) Special Dietary Needs (Please Specify): _______________________________________

Total Enclosed: $__________________________

Make Checks Payable to: “HMB Area Convention” Info: hmbconventionchair@aahmbny.org

HMB Assoc/Convention PMB 161 61 Elmwood Avenue Gloversville, NY 12078

You can register online @ www.aahmbny.org/2015hmbconvention Convention Registration Form - Pre-Registration Deadline, October 23, 2015

(One Form Per Person)

Friday - 11/6/15 Early Bird Meeting Panel and Workshop Speaker Meeting Entertainment

Saturday - 11/7/15 Panels and Workshops Old Timers Meeting Banquet/Speaker Meeting Entertainment

Sunday - 11/8/15 Spiritual Speaker Meeting Note: Al-Anon Participation; Alkathon Meetings throughout the weekend

Special Needs (Please Specify - for example ASL, Translation, etc ): __________________________________

Tentative Program

Hudson | Mohawk | Berkshire Area 48 www.aahmbny.org July 2015 Edition

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Directions

The I-88 Approach

Take your favorite combination of scenic byways to Route I-88. Take Exit 15 for Oneonta. At the end of the ramp, head south. At state Route 23, about 200 yards, take a left. The Holiday Inn is on the right, approximately 1.3 miles. The Holiday Inn, 5206 State Highway 23, Oneonta, NY 13820

The State Route 23 Approach

From the east: At the intersection with State Route 10 in Stamford, travel another 23.4 miles. The Holiday Inn is on the left.

From the west: Once you intersect with State Route 205 on the west side of Oneonta, stay on 205 to I-88 East. See above.

The State Route 28 Approach

From the north: Take Route 28 to I-88 West.

From the south: At the intersection with State Route 23 at the west end of Oneonta, go straight at the traffic signal. Proceed 1.7 miles. The Holiday Inn is on your right.

Submitted by John P., D2, ‘V

alley Falls Life with Hope Group’

HM

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Step 1, 2 & 3

Getting Right

With God

Foundation Stone –

Willingness

Step 1

Keystone—Letting

Go & Let God

Step 3

Step 4

Step 2

One Solution— Spiritual

Awakening— Willing to be

Changed, Be Transformed

Step 1

Un-manageability

See Bedevilments On Page 52

Big Book

Insanity— See Chapter 3

More About

Alcoholism— Big Book

Step 6

Step 5

Step 7

Step 8

Step 9

Step 10

Step 11

Step 12

Big Stones – Drs Opinion &

1st Four Chapters – all on Steps 1 & 2

Cornerstone – Belief

Step 2

Spiritual Structure Foundation—Willingness; Cornerstone—Belief; Keystone—Letting Go & Letting God;

Steps lead to Spiritual Awakening—to Happy, Joyous & Free Keys/Essentials—Honesty, Openness & Willingness—Humility

ARCHWAY TO FREEDOM

Give it Away to Keep It; Pass It on; Carry the

Message

Improving Our Connection to the Source of Power

Awakened, Renewal of the Mind, Reborn

Problem— Powerlessness

Unmanageability Insanity

Solution— Find Power

Sanity Manageability

Conscious Contact, Sixth Sense, Intuition

Being Convinced - Self-Will Run Riot

Playing God ISM

Doing Steps 4-9 – The Rest of Our

Lives

A Way of Life

Getting Mind & Emotions (Soul) in Unity/Harmony

Steps 4-7

Getting Right With

OthersAmends &

Restitution

Harmful Blocks of Self; Unsaleable Points; Inventory; Internal

Spiritual Maladjustment

Getting Right with Self

Sharing Our 4th Step

Willingness to have ALL Blocks Removed

Getting Right with Self

Happy, Joyous & Free

G.O.D. As You Understand Him

Good Orderly Design—Steps Good Orderly Direction-Sponsor

Good Orderly Discipline—Fellowship, Home Group, Service

Group Of Drunks

A Design for Living That Works, If WE Work It!

Make a Decision

to

We grow, mature, change, become; We

have meaning, purpose

By Taking Action

Hudson | Mohawk | Berkshire Area 48 www.aahmbny.org July 2015 Edition

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A. Grateful Group 36 Principles Way Serenity, NY 61935

General Service Office

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

A. Grateful Group 36 Principles Way Serenity, NY 61935

HMB Area Association Ship and Copy 118 Polar Plaza, #114 Amsterdam, NY 12010

GROUP TREASURERS & MEMBERS,

PLEASE MAIL CONTRIBUTIONS FOR AREA 48 & the

GENERAL SERVICE OFFICE to:

Beginning Balance $11,381.08

IncomeArea Contributions $3,337.70HMB Convention Surplus $1,741.63Advances Returned $12.00

Total Income $5,091.33

ExpenseTreasurer $110.17Corrections Facility $127.40Newsletter Editor $111.49NERAASA $330.10Corrections Connection $158.46Archive Storage Fees $153.00Mail Box Service $31.66Newsletter Postage $353.00Newsletter Printing $274.25Prior Year Expenses $384.30Checking Adj (new checks) $113.19

Total Expense $2,147.02

Net Income $2,944.31

Balance $14,325.39Prudent Reserve -$7,000.00

Available Funds $7,325.39

Prepared by Pat C.treasurer@aahmbny.org

HMB Area 48Monthly Treasury Report

April 2015

Beginning Balance $14,325.39

IncomeArea Contributions $3,297.27Meeting Schedules $1,672.00Total Income $4,969.27

ExpenseCooperation with Prof Community 200.20Newsletter Editor 38.50Public Information 70.48NERF 400.00NERF Hospitality 1,000.00Area Assemblies 138.06Mail Box Service 51.11Newsletter Postage 245.00Newsletter Printing 225.00Tax Preparation 638.00Website 99.90Total Expense $3,106.25

Net Income $1,863.02

Balance $16,188.41Prudent Reserve -$7,000.00

Available Funds $9,188.41

Prepared by Pat C.treasurer@aahmbny.org

HMB Area 48Monthly Treasury Report

May 2015

“Could you spare 50 ¢? I am joining AA and I want before-and-after pictures.”

- September 1976 Grapevine

Hudson | Mohawk | Berkshire Area 48 www.aahmbny.org July 2015 Edition

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• Area DELEGATE ———————

Hi All,

Pursuant to the Literature Committee’s Advisory actions at the 65th General Service Conference, the Trustee’s Literature Committee has sent a memo with requests for sharing as follows:

• Stories to update the pamphlet ‘AA for the Woman’ to include stories from women in the military, single mothers, and women of diverse backgrounds.

• Sharing from members who are gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgendered or gender nonconforming, especially regarding being a newcomer and sponsorship.

• A wide range of experience from members with mental health issues, and from those who sponsor such members.

Manuscripts should be 500 to 800 words, double-spaced, in 12 point font. Include your name, address, and email or phone information. Email to literature@aa.org or mail to Literature Coordinator, General Service Office, P. O. Box 459, Grand Central Station, New York, NY 10163.

AA Grapevine, Inc.’s ‘Carry the Message’ effort focuses on getting the Grapevine and La Viña subscriptions to alcoholics in need. Over 600 requests for Grapevine subscriptions were received by the AAWS Correction’s Desk and forwarded to AA Grapevine Inc. We have a list of inmates who are in correctional facilities in our Area. Districts and/or groups, or individual members, may be interested in funding a subscription for one of these inmates. If interested in doing so, please send an email to hmbdelegate@aahmbny.org for further info.

In Service,

Pat L. , Panel 64 Delegate Conference Committee Literature

________________________________________

• Area SECRETARY - —————

The following minutes were approved at the Area Fellowship Day, June 13, in Cairo.

HMB May Assembly Saturday, May 16, 2015 Scotia, NY

Hosted by District 14 and the Central Cluster.

Meeting called to order at 10:00 am by Area Chair.

I. Reports - Minutes from April Delegate’s Day approved by voice acclamation. - Chair’s report: Area 48 is hosting NERF in two weeks in Albany. We are still in need of volunteers - see Keith D. Donations of baked goods and other stuff for the hospitality suite are appreciated. Please let them know what you will be donating. - Delegate’s Report: • NERAASA 2018 will be in Cromwell, CT, Feb

23-25. • NERAASA 2016 - Springfield, MA • NERAASA 2017 – Boston, MA • Schedules of workshops for the International in

Atlanta are now being sent out. Over 40,000 are now registered. 4000 volunteers are signed up. 225 AA meetings, in addition to workshops. Old-timers = 50+ years.

• Financial report from conference – see attached o Total revenue – $26,925,146 (Contributions

– 6.8M. Literature Sales 19M) o Total Expenses – $25,354,689 o Cost of service per member - $7.08.

Contributions per member - $5.02 o Cost of service per group - $149.

Contributions per group - $105. o Percentage of groups contributing – 42

percent o Membership and contribution levels are

essentially flat, subscriptions are down but expenses are growing at about 3 percent.

• Conference Advisory Actions – see attached. These items were discussed in committees and then approved on the assembly floor, including a proposal from a member in HMB District 8.

• Committee Considerations – see attached. Items which were discussed but not voted on.

• Message from GSO Grapevine coordinator – see attached. Groups can purchase gift subscriptions and donate to prisoners who have requested them.

II. Reading of proposed budget – Motion to waive reading of proposed budget was approved. One change/amendment was noted – Expense Allocation for

AREA REPORTS

Hudson | Mohawk | Berkshire Area 48 www.aahmbny.org July 2015 Edition

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Treasurer increased to $1000, adding $200 to the total expense allocation, and related totals. III. Discussion and voting on proposals. Today’s parliamentarian is Dave S., Past Delegate Panel 52.

•Proposal #1 - Submitted by Bill W., Area Chair (Procedure for Electing Area Officers) As follows:

“All present or past members of the Area with at least 5 years of sobriety will be asked by the Area Delegate to stand up. These are the eligible candidates for Area Chair. The Delegate will then ask those who have determined that they will not be available to fulfill the obligations to sit down. The names of those that remain standing will be written on the board as the candidates for Area 48 Chair. Before voting begins, the candidates will be asked to briefly share their service experience with the Assembly, each having no more than 3 minutes.

The selection process will be conducted using the “Third Legacy Procedure” described in Chapter One of ‘The A.A. Service Manual.’ The details of this procedure will be described before the elections begin. The key qualities that distinguish this from a “normal” majority-rule election are: a 2/3 majority is required to reach a decision, voting will last no more than 5 ballots, all voting will be by written ballot, some candidates may be eliminated after each ballot, and – if no candidate has been selected after five ballots - the choice will be made by lot, called “going to the hat.”

The list of remaining Area Chair candidates is the beginning list of eligible candidates for Alternate Chair. The Delegate will ask if anyone wishes to add or remove his/her name to/from the list and the “Third Legacy Procedure” will be followed to select the Alternate Chair.

The list of remaining Alternate Chair candidates is the beginning list of eligible candidates for Treasurer. The list of remaining Treasurer candidates is the beginning list of eligible candidates for Secretary. Since the service history and desired length of sobriety change as we move through the different service positions, others may add their name to the list of eligible and available candidates at each stage of the process.”

— Seconded by Deb D.

Discussion - Many are in favor. A concern was expressed about making sure that we get capable, qualified people not just warm bodies. A member who has experience with this system says it’s more likely that we bring more people into service, rather than fewer. Suggestion to have some information in the newsletter a couple of months in advance detailing what’s involved in each position (time and travel requirements, for instance). Would be more inclusive. Less cronyism.

In favor – 47 Opposed – 1 Abstaining – 1 Minority opinion – none.

•Proposal #2 - Submitted by Bill W., Area Chair “The Area Treasurer and Secretary be limited to serving one two-year term. Should the individual assume the position of either Treasurer or Secretary due to the resignation of the serving office holder they will still be eligible to serve a full two-year term upon subsequent election.” —- Seconded by Deb D. Discussion - These are demanding jobs, and if there are people who are willing to take a second term, should be allowed to do so. Proposed Friendly Amendment: To remove treasurer from the language, so that the treasurer could still hold the office for two terms. Accepted. Proposed Friendly Amendment: To include Alternate chair in the limiting language. Accepted. Amended Proposal: “That the Area Alternate Chair and Secretary be limited to serving one two-year term. Should the individual assume the position of either Alternate Chair or Secretary due to the resignation of the serving office holder they will still be eligible to serve a full two-year term upon subsequent election.” In favor - 37 Opposed - 11 Abstentions - 2 Minority opinion – concerned about the word “limited.” Under our new system of everyone who is qualified for a position standing for it, wouldn’t someone be eligible to be re-elected?

•Proposal #3 - Submitted by Bill W., Area Chair (Orientation for new Area Officers) As follows: “Following our election of Area Officers, the remaining half of the Area 48 Election Assembly shall be allocated for orientation of the new Area Officers by the previous office holders. The Area Chair will have other sessions scheduled for those members who are not immediately involved in the orientation sessions.” — Seconded by Dave S. No discussion. In favor - 51 Opposed – 1 Abstaining - 1 Minority opinion – concerned that one half day might not be enough orientation, and that it wasn’t clear which previous office holders would be responsible for providing the orientation.

Hudson | Mohawk | Berkshire Area 48 www.aahmbny.org July 2015 Edition

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• One person wished to change their vote upon hearing the minority opinion so discussion re-opened.

Discussion – Usually in the afternoon, the committees elect their chairs. What about a person who is leaving a position and therefore should be providing orientation for the next person, and is also taking up a new position? It need not be limited to the immediate past office holder. Proposed Friendly Amendment: To remove the words, “by the previous office holders.” Accepted.

• Motion to refer to the Service Manual Ad Hoc Committee made by Deb D. Seconded by Thea.

In favor - 48 Opposed - 1 Abstentions – 3

•Proposal #4 The HMB Area 48 Service Manual Ad Hoc Committee submits the following proposed description for the Corrections Service Position for inclusion in the Area Service Manual:

Corrections Chair

Chair Responsibilities

- Chairs the Area Corrections Committee, including meetings at Area events.

- Attends all Area meetings, select New York State events and select Regional events as described in section Event Participation and Funding of this manual.

- Coordinates the “Fifth Tradition in Corrections Workshops” in the clusters.

- Coordinates correctional information with GSO.- Works closely with District Corrections Chairs.- Assists Districts and Clusters with establishing AA

meetings in correctional facilities where there are none and providing support in those facilities where there are issues.

- Follows up with requests for information from individual AA members and family members of inmates.

- Is familiar with the Corrections Workbook and Kit, the A.A. Service Manual and the HMB Area 48 Service Manual.

- Cooperates with other area and local service committees.

- Passes along communications and requests from AAWS/AA Grapevine of possible interest to the membership.

- Submit expense reports on time as described in the Allocations section of this manual.

Qualifications- Suggested to have service experience at the group

- and district level.- Suggested to have a good foundation with the

Traditions and the Concepts.- Time and energy to do the service position.

The Area Corrections Committee- The Area Corrections Committee is chaired by the Area

Corrections Committee Chairperson.- All District Corrections Chairs and District Alternate

Corrections Chairs make up the Area Corrections Committee.

- Other AA members of the fellowship can serve as active service workers on the committee. Interested AA members are encouraged to talk with the Area Corrections Chair.

Getting Started- It is suggested to meet with the immediate past chair

of the service committee. If there has not been a chair of the service committee in some time, the new chairperson can work with the Area Delegate, Area Chairperson, Past Delegates, a service sponsor, and/or a past Corrections Chair.

- The Corrections Workbook and Kit, which is available from the General Service Office, is also a key tool to help you get started.

- The General Service Office Corrections Desk staff can provide shared experience from the fellowship. They are available at corrections@aa.org or by calling 212-870-3400.

Literature- Corrections Workbook http://www.aa.org/assets/

en_US/m45i_WorkbookCorr.pdf - A.A. Guidelines – Corrections Committee http://

www.aa.org/assets/en_US/mg-06_corrections.pdf - A.A. Guidelines – Cooperating with Court, D.W.I.

and Similar Programs http://www.aa.org/assets/en_US/mg-05_coopwithcourt.pdf

- P-26 - A.A. in Correctional Facilities http://www.aa.org/assets/en_US/p-26_AAinCF.pdf

- F-5 - Carrying the Message into Correctional Facilities http://www.aa.org/assets/en_US/f-5_CarryingtheMessagCF.pdf

- P-29 - How A.A. Members Cooperate With Professionals http://www.aa.org/assets/en_US/p-29_howAAmemCoopProf.pdf

- P-20 - Message to Corrections Professionals http://w w w . a a . o r g / a s s e t s / e n _ U S /p-20_AMessagetoCorrProf.pdf

Discussion – What does this change from existing service manual language? Currently, the service manual does not describe the committee chair’s jobs. No amount of length of sobriety is specified, but it is implied by “have experience at district and group level.” Remove the term “correctional facilities” and change to

Hudson | Mohawk | Berkshire Area 48 www.aahmbny.org July 2015 Edition

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“corrections.” In favor – 50 Opposed – 0 Abstentions – 2

•Proposal #5 The HMB Area 48 Service Manual Ad Hoc Committee submits the following proposed sections for inclusion in the Area Service Manual.

- Event Participation and Funding - Allocations

Event Participation and Funding:Members of the Area Committee and the Service Committee Chairs are expected to attend and participate at Area events, select New York State events and select Regional Events. The table below indicates by position what those expectations are. The Area budget includes funding for this activity. Please refer to the approved budget for specific dollar amounts.

Allocations:An allocation is financial funding that is made available to those serving the Area, as described in the section “Event Participation and Funding” of this manual. In the approved Area Budget, each service position will have a

general allocation and event allocations. General allocation can be used for mileage, tolls, literature, postage, copying, office supplies, and other reasonable expenses.

Event allocations are used for mileage, tolls, lodging and registration for events that are funded. Allocations should not be used for meals or banquet costs with the exception of the New York State Informational Workshop where meals are normally included in the costs of the weekend. There will be no reimbursement for hotel costs if the participant lives within a 25 mile radius of the event. This will not apply if special accommodations are required. Allocations from one event cannot be used for another event.

Alternate Service Committee chairs are not funded unless the chair of that service position is unable to attend the event.

Refer to the approved budget for the mileage reimbursement rate.

Actual expenditures must be reported in writing and documented with receipts. Reports are due by April 15th, July 15th, October 15th and December 15th. The Finance Committee must review all reports past due before any payments are made. Allocated monies are disbursed when requested and only when an accounting

of the previous allocation has been made.

Forms for reporting expenses:

(1) HMB Area Association Chair/ Committee Expense and Allocation Form (for General allocation reporting.)(2) HMB Area Association Expense Report for Conventions, Forums, Informational Workshops (for Event reporting).Respectfully Submitted, Deb, Thea, Amanda, Tad, and Mark

In favor – 50 Opposed – 0 Abstentions – 1

•Proposal #6 The HMB Area 48 Service Manual Ad Hoc Committee submits the following proposed guidelines for hosting area events, for inclusion in the Area Service Manual. This will replace the existing section titled, “Hosting Area Events,” starting on page 13.

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Area Inventory Day Jan X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X NERAASA Feb X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X Area Fellowship Day Mar X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X Area Day of Sharing Apr X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X Area Assembly May X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X Area Fellowship Day Jun X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X NYSIW Aug X X X X X X X X X X X X Area Fellowship Day (even years) Sep X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X Area Election (odd years) Sep X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X Area Assembly Oct X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X Area Fellowship Day Nov X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X Area Convention Nov X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X NERF (odd years)

Varies X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X

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SUGGESTED GUIDELINES HOSTING AREA EVENTS

The Area Events Calendar is coordinated by the Alternate Area Chairperson, who also serves as the Functions Committee Chair. The Functions Committee is typically comprised of the Functions Committee Chair and the DCMs.

The Functions Committee Chair is responsible for - establishing the area calendar of events- identifying the host cluster for each event- identifying a host district from the host cluster

A Cluster is a group of districts. In HMB Area 48, the clusters are designated as follows: - Adirondack Cluster – Districts 5, 10, 13, & 19 - Central Cluster – Districts 4, 8, & 14 - Eastern Cluster – Districts 1, 2, & 18- Hudson Valley Cluster - Districts 3,7,11,15, 16, & 17- Western Cluster — Districts 9 & 12

The primary role of the host district is to provide overall coordination for a specific event and to ensure the tasks outlined below are discussed and assigned to the districts in the host cluster.

Remember, it is intended for Area events to be hosted by all the districts in a cluster. If you do not have contact emails or phone numbers for the DCMs in your cluster, ask the Area Registrar for this information. You will benefit from communicating amongst yourselves when hosting an event and build more fellowship and unity in the process!

The fol lowing suggestions come from shared experience from prior hosted Area events:A. Securing a Facility - The facility should have enough rooms/space to accommodate both Fellowship and Area Committee meetings. Secure the facility well in advance so date, time, location can be published in a timely manner. Remember that at least two, and sometimes three, meetings will be going on at the same time. Ensure the space is accessible to those with physical limitations. Check with the facility on set up times to ensure the space is available at least an hour before the event. Secure the facility with a deposit from the Host District (unless otherwise assigned) or the Area.

B. Themes/Topics - Fellowship Days and/ or AreaAssemblies are organized by the designated district in the Host Cluster. Please give a heads up to speakers on a panel or workshop at least a month in advance to allow speakers time to prepare. Follow up with speakers by email or phone a week before event.

C. Table Space for Service Committees – Check withthe Area Archives and Area Grapevine Chairs to see if they will need space for displays. Other Area Service

Committees are responsible for contacting the Host Cluster to arrange for special setup space. Also have a table available for flyers and other handouts.

D. Flyer - A flyer (to be made by Alternate Chair or designated district in the Host Cluster) should be published in the Area Newsletter a minimum of two months prior to the event. The flyer should also be posted on the Area Website. The flyer should include day and date, a d d r e s s , a g e n d a , d i r e c t i o n s a n d althmbchair@aahmbny.org as the contact email (no phone numbers).The designated district in the Host Cluster should coordinate with the Area Chairperson and the Alternate Area Chairperson on the agenda for the event. The flyer should be sent to the alternate area chairperson (althmbchair@aahmbny.org), newsletter editor (newsletter@aahmbny.org), a n d w e b m a s t e r (webmaster@aahmbny.org). Remember to print copies of the flyer and make them available at Area events prior to the event you are hosting (100 copies for Area per event).

E. Food / Refreshments - Coffee/Tea, doughnuts or other breakfast items should be provided during the registration time. Lunch is provided during all Area events except for the June Fellowship Day. Seventh Tradition cans should be supplied by the designated district in the Host Cluster and placed in convenient locations.

If your district is hosting the event, plan on feeding 75 people and request help from other host cluster districts with morning food or coffee/beverages/paper items.

F. Volunteers – The districts in the Host Cluster are responsible for arranging for volunteers to handle the registration table including sign-in sheets and name tags. It is suggested to have two people to greet at the table and to answer any questions about the event. Additional volunteers will be needed to handle food, set up and clean up. The sign-in sheets should be given to the Area Secretary at the end of the event.

G. Reimbursement - The Area will reimburse the Host Cluster, through the designated host district, for expenses not covered by SeventhTradition contributions, up to the budgeted amount. If necessary, the Area can advance event funds to the designated host district, including for the facility deposit. Refer to the approved Area budget for budgeted amounts.

Remember to KEEP ALL RECEIPTS in order to be reimbursed. If more than one district is purchasing items for the event, please submit only ONE reimbursement form to the Area Treasurer. If Districts provide contributions to support the event, please include this information on the event summary.

If you have more questions, please contact your Area 48 Alternate Chair (althmbchair@aahmbny.org).

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Respectfully submitted, Deb, Thea, Amanda, Tad, and Mark

Friendly Amendment – In 2nd to last paragraph, after “…reimbursement form to the Area Treasurer.” add, “It is suggested that the Host District submit the reimbursement form.” Accepted.

In favor – 47 Opposed – 1 Abstentions – 1

IV. Name the Newsletter Contest

Winner is ‘Happy, Joyous, and Free Press,’ submitted by Fred F., D1 DCM Other submissions were: 'The HMB Herald' Arthur D., D1, Sat AM Men's Eye-Opener Group, Albany. 'The HMB Messenger' William R., D4 DCM/ Area Webmaster, Gloversville. 'The Daily Reprieve’ Ray R., D3, Freedom From Self Will Group, New Baltimore. 'Area 48 Echoes’ Brenda O., D12 Corrections, Rome.

Meeting closed at 2:04 pm with the Responsibility Pledge.

____________________________________________

• Area CORRECTIONS Chair ——  Now that summer has officially begun, we can slow the pace a bit and choose from the many options available to enjoy the outdoors and longer days. I am happy to report that the Fifth Tradition in Corrections Workshop for the Hudson Valley Cluster has been scheduled for 8/12/15, at the auditorium of the St. Benedictine Hospital (now Health Alliance), 105 Mary’s Ave., Kingston, NY, 12401. I will be sending an email to the Corrections Chairs asking for their help in identifying any contacts that they have at county and state correctional facilities in their districts. Also, a flyer will be sent via email to the Corrections Chairs and DCM’s of Districts 3, 7, 11, 15, 16, and 17. (I realize that there is currently no DCM for District 15.) This workshop will be held from 5:00 to 8:00 pm. The speakers will include Kevin B. (who will talk about corrections and the need to coordinate with Bridging the Gap Services), Tommy O. (who many of you have heard and is from the Hudson Valley Cluster), and representatives of county and state correctional facilities.In the Adirondack Cluster, meetings are being held in Great Meadow and Washington Correctional Facilities.

More AA members are needed to volunteer to go into the Essex County, Franklin County, and Clinton County Correctional Facilities. Four volunteers have been approved to go into the Warren County Correctional Facility and need to be fingerprinted. I am waiting for an answer from Lt. Clifford regarding the facility’s ability/willingness to pay for this cost.

In the Western Cluster/Oneida Hub, two meetings are being held for women, back to back, one night a week, at the Oneida County Correctional Facility. Recently, one man was approved and fingerprinted, and a men’s meeting, once a week, may have started by the time of this newsletter’s printing. The volunteer applications that were filled out last September for Marcy, Midstate, and Mohawk Correctional Facilities have never been located. Therefore, I recently sent Volunteer Application forms for State Prisons, to seven individuals for whom I had email addresses. Amanda Sheridan, the DOCCS representative for the Oneida Hub, agreed to have the individuals send their completed forms to her directly at Amanda Sheridan, Volunteer Services, Watertown Correctional Facility, 23147 Swan Rd., Watertown, NY, 13601. If you are interested in completing a Volunteer Application to go into one of the above s t a t e p r i s o n s , p l e a s e e m a i l m e a t corrections@aahmbny.org. I can send you a form. If you do not have email, please ask someone in your district for my telephone number.

May each of you have a happy, healthy and sober summer!

Kathy R.

___________________________________________

• Area GRAPEVINE Chair ———- Just received this BIG NEWS from AAGrapevine,Inc…

From July 1 to July 6, in celebration of our 80 years and our International Convention, the ON-LINE version of the AA Grapevine Magazine will be available for the great price of $20 (Normally $34.97) for the whole year!! 

You can purchase either ON-LINE at aagrapevine.org or at the International Convention ONLY..(no mail-ins).

PLEASE SPREAD THE WORD ABOUT THIS GREAT SALE.  IT'S A GREAT OPPORTUNITY TO GIVE A SPONSEE A GIFT, OR PERHAPS AN "OLD TIMER"

THAT MAY NOT BE COMING AROUND SO MUCH ANYMORE......OR...EVEN GIVE YOURSELF THE GIFT

OF OUR MEETING IN PRINT.

Hudson | Mohawk | Berkshire Area 48 www.aahmbny.org July 2015 Edition

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Of course, if you have any questions...you know how to find me!

In love and service,

Cathy P.HMB Area 48 Grapevine Chairperson

_____________________________________________

• Area Bridging the Gap Committee_ This Area 48 service committee welcomes completed forms from individuals who are leaving treatment facilities or correctional facilities. The description of the Bridging the Gap service on the HMB Area 48 website describes BTG in relation to treatment facilities only. This service is also available for those being released from correctional facilities, and is sometimes referred to as Pre-release. Both the Bridging the Gap Form and the Pre-Release Form are available on the HMB website, and both have mailing addresses on the bottom of the forms. Please do not mail completed forms to either of these mailing addresses. We have found in Area 48, especially for the forms that are sent to Amsterdam, that there is a delay in the forms getting to the Area 48 Bridging the Gap Chair, and therefore some individuals may have already been residing at their new addresses.

Earlier in 2015, there was miscommunication regarding access to the BTG email address, and therefore a lapse in forms that were emailed to the BTG email getting processed. At this time, I am temporarily monitoring the BTG email. Completed forms for individuals leaving either a treatment facility or a correctional facility may be emailed directly to btg@aahmbny.org, and I will work with the relevant Districts if the persons will be living in Area 48. For individuals from HMB Area 48 who are being discharged/released from either type of facility, to other Areas in NYS, I have the information on those Area contacts. Area 49 and our Area 48 have good communication. Actually for Area 47, there is no BTG chair, so that the contact person is the Treatment Chair. In Area 50, BTG is also handled by the Treatment Chair.

Would it surprise you to know that at GSO, BTG falls under the purview of Treatment? Since HMB Area 48 does have a separate BTG Area Committee, let’s see how many individuals we can help by providing a “bridge” for them as they re-enter society, and by providing support to them in getting to AA meetings, developing contacts, and making new sober friends.

Kathy R.

_____________________________________________

• Area Public Information Chair —— Good Day to the Area,

As we head into the summer months I want to update you all on what is happening with Public Information. The Area has started an Ad Hoc Committee on the very important topic of Anonymity Online. AA World Services and the General Service Office have a service material piece on this topic. Go to aa.org in the search bar type ‘anonymity online’ and download the 2 page document (SM F-197).

When I first came to AA I went to my home group’s Big Book meeting. At the time, the chairperson, who was leading the meeting, was reading a paragraph at a time from the Big Book. What I found out later, as I stuck around, was that the groups conscience was to stop at the end of a paragraph to see if anyone wanted to share on what was read. This meeting leader did something a little different. He had a dictionary with him and he would look up words that he felt needed to be clarified. That was a practice that I still do today in reading literature. So here we go…

In the pamphlet ‘Understanding Anonymity:’

• Anonymity- the quality or state of being anonymous. Having or giving no name. Of unknown or unnamed source or origin. Lacking marked individuality or personality.

• Marked- enjoying fame or notoriety. Distinctive or emphasized character.

• Notoriety- the quality or state of being notorious.• Notorious- making known. (When I think of

notorious I equate to bad. So you can also be GOOD notorious.)

“Anonymity is the spiritual foundation of all our traditions, ever reminding us to place principals before personalities.”

• Principals- a matter or thing of primary importance.• Primary- of first rank, importance or value.

In this issue, you will find a special letter from Terry Bedient, the non-alcoholic chairman of our AA General Service Board, photos from past Conventions and a wonderful story by a member who has been to 25 years of Conventions. Because AAs are gathering from many countries to celebrate this month, we’re also featuring stories by members about AA meetings all over the world.

Hudson | Mohawk | Berkshire Area 48 www.aahmbny.org July 2015 Edition

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• Personalities- the Quality or state of being a person. Personal existence.

Page 6 of the pamphlet ‘Understanding Anonymity:’Anonymity on a person-to-person basis “…The social stigma of alcoholism was great, and those early AA members recognized that a firm assurance of confidentiality was imperative if they were to succeed in attracting and helping other alcoholics to achieve sobriety.”

• Stigma- a mark of shame or discredit. An identifying mark or characteristic. A specific diagnostic sign of a disease.

Page 7 of the pamphlet ‘Understanding Anonymity:’Anonymity at the public level “…To assure the unity, effectiveness, and welfare of AA, anonymity had to be universal. It was the guardian of all that AA stood for.”

• Universal-including or covering all or a whole collectively without limit or exception. Present or occurring everywhere under all conditions.

“…Back in 1946, Bill W., our co-founder, wrote: “The word ‘anonymous’ has for us an immense spiritual significance. Subtly but powerfully, it reminds us that we are always to place principals before personalities; that we have renounced personal glorification in public; that our movement not only preaches but actually practices a true humility.”

• Humility- the quality or state of being humble- not proud or haughty. Not arrogant or assertive. Reflecting expressing or offering in a spirit of deference or submission.

• Deference- courteous, respectful or integrating regard for another’s wishes.

So before you post on your wall (in social media) think of deference and be respectful for another’s wishes to stay anonymous. To all the other friends they have on their page, maybe they do not want those friends to know that they are in, or are associated with, “the social stigma of alcoholism.”

I am in the process of setting up a committee that can deliver the message of ‘Understanding Anonymity’ to groups in your district. If you are willing to speak at local meetings on this topic please contact me at pi@aahmbny.org or seek me out at an area event that is in your district. You can also look out for your district Public information committee chairperson. It is a great way to do service and a good way to join a team of drunks looking to deliver this message. You may even

become a good public speaker. That may be what your God has in store for your future.

Thanking you in Love & Service to the best Area in AA.

Pat R.HMB Area 48 PI Chair

Definitions taken from Webster’s Seventh New Collegiate Dictionary, G. & C. Merriam Co. Publishers, 1963.

_____________________________________________

• Area CHAIR ——————— —— Dear Fellow Trusted Servants,

We have had a very busy month here in HMB. First, we hosted the Northeast Regional Forum – NERF – in Albany. It was not only a great success, with well over 400 fellow AA’s from other Areas in the Northeast (Maine to Washington, DC), but also tremendous input from other Area 48 people. Special thanks go out to our Past Delegate Keith D., who was the head of this committee from the very beginning, to past Delegate Dave S., who oversaw the registration tables, to Tammy D., who organized the greeters, and to Linda A., who ran the Hospitality Room. It was a combined effort and a great one. During one quiet moment, Ivy, one of our Trusted Servants in the GSO office in NY, thanked me for how well the Forum was organized. When I said that I was sure all of the Forums were well organized she looked at me quietly for a second and then slowly shook her head, “Oh, no, if you only knew.” Great job, everyone!

We also had our short Fellowship Day in June – in Cairo, this year. About 60 HMB people came together for a business meeting and a panel on Service. Special thanks to District 3 and the Hudson Valley Cluster for organizing this, and to fellow panelists, Thea H-B., and Hawk.

I wish a very safe trip to all of you who are going to the International in Atlanta! Have a great, sober, time!

I will see some of you here in HMB in the next month: I will be at the District 8 District Meeting on June 24th, and at the District 19 meeting on July 7th.

Don’t forget – the New York State Informational Workshop – August 14-16, Cornwall on Hudson! See you there.

In Fellowship and In Service,

Bill W.Area Chair

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NORTHEAST REGIONAL FORUM REPORT

Recently HMB Area 48 hosted this year’s Northeast Regional Forum, also known as NERF. The event was held at the Albany Marriott on Wolf Road the weekend of May 29th.

The purpose of the event is for both the General Service and Grapevine Office staff members to come out to the different regions and discuss how they serve the Fellowship. It is a weekend filled with workshops, presentations, and question and answer sessions. Also presenting are current seated delegates from the region. With the fact that the event is held every other year, it is an opportunity for new members in AA and service work, to learn things they will not find in our literature and to meet with actual staff members.

The attendance for this year’s event was 408, with some 90 or so no-shows who had registered. For the fact that the event was being held a month before the 80th International Convention in Atlanta, the last weekend in May, attendance was good. The enthusiasm was great, with many first time attendees in attendance. If you have never attended one of these events, try and make the next NERF, being hosted by Area 60, Eastern Pennsylvania.

For me personally, this weekend started two years ago when I was at the 63rd General Service Conference. That is where, as delegates, we get to bid on our respective Area’s to host regional events. On that particular day we had a couple of things going for us to win the bid. The first was that HMB Area 48 had never hosted the event before and the other, being the location we had chosen. I brought back the good news and heard wonderful things from you folks about the opportunity we had been handed.

I want to personally thank all of the folks who volunteered their time to help make the event successful. Special thanks go to our committee chairs, Tammie E., with the Greeters; Linda A., in

the Hospitality Suite; and our illustrious Panel 52 Past Delegate, Dave S., handling the Registration. Last, but certainly not least, special thanks to Bill W. [HMB Area Chair] for accepting my invitation to be my co-host late in the game.

One more set of thanks to our ‘Primetime Players’

consisting of Peggy M., Thea H-B., Yvette B., Guy K., Gary C., Jeannie S., and Don S. Our players performed their rendition of the 80th International Convention skit. With very little preparation, we found some folks that have been hiding their talents [lol]. The feedback I received from the GSO staff was of high praise, as they said they have seen a few of these. But that was the most personality they had witnessed and were blown away by it.

It was a wonderful weekend for me personally and I am left feeling even more blessed and grateful than before. Thank you so much for allowing me to serve. As has been the case for me, ‘Service continues to be the Secret.’

In Love & Service,

Keith D., Panel 62 Past Delegate

‘BUT SEE SIR, TEN MARTINIS AT SIXTY CENTS EACH IS …’

- OC

TOBER

1951 AAGR

APEVINE

June 29 - July 2: 1995 - 56,000 attend 60th Anniversary of AA in San Diego. What a party!.

July 1-3:!1960 - 8700 attend 25th Anniversary of AA in Long Beach, CA

July 2: 1965 - Best of Bill and pocket-sized 12 & 12; first sold. 1965 - First La Vigne, the Canadian version of the Grapevine, is published. 1993 - 50 years of AA celebrated in Canada.

2000 - 20 Millionth Big Book given to Al-Anon in Minneapolis

July 2-3:!1955 - 5000 attend 20th Anniversary at our St Louis Convention; Bill W. turns "the fellowship over to the fellowship" at 4:00 PM

July 2-4:!1965 - 10,000 attend 30th Anniversary of AA in Toronto, our Responsibility Declaration is adopted.

July 3-5:!1970 - 10,900 attend 35th Anniversary of AA in Miami; Bill W. gives his last talk to AA.

 July 3-6: 1980 - 22,500 attend 45th Anniversary of AA in New Orleans; first true marathon meeting is held here. 1980 - Gay AA's have own program at 40th AA Anniversary in New Orleans.

July 4:!1939 - First AA meeting in Flatbush, NY starts.

July 4-6: 1975 - 19,800 attend 40th Anniversary of AA in Denver; worlds largest coffee server serves 1/2 million cups a day.

July 5: 1985 - AA gives Ruth Hock 5,000,000th Big Book during 50th AA Anniversary in Montreal, Canada. 1990 - AA gives Nell Wing 10,000,000th Big Book during 55th AA Anniversary in Seattle, WA

July 5-7: 1985 - 45,000 attend 50th Anniversary of AA in Montreal; House of Seagrams flies their flags at half mast for 3 days.   July 5-8: 1990 - 48,000 attend 55th Anniversary of AA in Seattle. 75 countries are represented as the former Soviet Union's members attend for the first time.

July 7:!1940 - Bill attends 1st Summer Session at School of Alcohol Studies at Yale University.

July 8:!1940 - First AA group formed in Dayton, Ohio.

July 10: 1941 - Texas newspaper publishes anonymous letter from founding member of Texas AA Group.

July 14: 1939 - Blythewood Sanitarium; Dr Harry Tiebout gives Big Book to Marty M. who promptly throws it back at him. 1979 - Dr. Ernest Kurtz publishes Not God, a history of AA

July 20: 1941 - First AA group forms in Seattle, Washington.

July 23: 1940 - Philly AA's send 10% of kitty to Alcoholic Foundation, setting precedent. 1943 - Esther C.'s sobriety date; she died sober Jan 15, 2005. 1943 - New Haven Register CT reports arrival of AA's to study with E.M.Jellinek.

July 24: 1943 - L.A. press reports formation of all-Mexican AA Group.

July 28 - 30: 1950 - First AA Convention celebrates 15th anniversary of AA in Cleveland.

July 31: 1972 - Rollie H., former baseball player, dies sober in Washington DC.

AA History in July

WORD SCRAMBLE

STEP 6 KEY

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APPROACH SEVENTH ACTIVATOR

UNSATISFIED MISUNDERSTOOD ACQUAINTANCE

IMMENSE POVERTY SUCCEEDING

FRUSTRATED OBLIVION WELL-INTENTIONED

STRIVINGS PERSPECTIVE DESIRABLE

HONESTY TOLERANCE ANCHORAGE

VALUES SUCCESSIVE GROVELING

ADMISSION LIBERATION COMPULSIONS

OVERWHELMING EQUILIBRIUM

E V I S S E C C U S T J Z T G S G A D M

O K M S G N I V I R T S O J S X D O Q A

T L V G N I M L E H W R E V O D F N C G

A M P C B W A P P R O A C H G R O Q L G

N V P L D E I F S I T A S N U I U P N B

C L Q R V L E J L A A O G S V A E I D B

H I F D M L S L V J L B T I I R D V M C

O B M Z N - N F I Y L R L N S E H A U A

R E I N H I E W C F A B T P E O Y L I Q

A R S G G N M C A T O A E C N K Z U R I

G A U F R T M K E D N C C E M S O E B A

E T N T O E I D A C T U S P V S K S I D

B I D J V N Q M E I S T O A A U C K L M

V O E O E T N C V V Y I L K N L Q A I I

O N R Z L I S E V E N T H X P R D X U S

X I S S I O J C O M P U L S I O N S Q S

O Q T O N N E S Z G T O L E R A N C E I

G V O I G E X Y T R E V O P E W N Q Y O

C F O S B D D E S I R A B L E K D R L N

B H D O R O T A V I T C A I U S O C B C

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APPROACH SEVENTH ACTIVATOR UNSATISFIED MISUNDERSTOOD ACQUAINTANCE IMMENSE POVERTY SUCCEEDING FRUSTRATED OBLIVION WELL-INTENTIONED STRIVINGS PERSPECTIVE DESIRABLE HONESTY TOLERANCE ANCHORAGE VALUES SUCCESSIVE GROVELING ADMISSION LIBERATION COMPULSIONS OVERWHELMING EQUILIBRIUM

HM

B Area A

ssociation (7/2015) Ship and C

opy118 Polar Plaza, #

114A

msterdam

, NY

12010