GROW

Grateful Recovering Online Women

2016 Business Meetings

Previous | Index | Next

Business Meetings - October 2016 or April 2016

Business Meeting - October 2016


Secretary’s Report

All Quiet on the Grow Front.

We had one issue to deal with through the Steering Committee.

One was a member who approaches new members and offers them temporary sponsorship. However the new members are fragile and we have heard from two directly about her perceived rude behavior. This was discussed in Steering Committee. It was decided to send an additional etiquette letter to the group, with the caution of not every sponsor, or AA is a good fit. It was also discussed to send the offending member a warning for her behavior, and well as amending the etiquette letter to continue with the caution addendum.

Another issue discussed within the small steering committee was about another members continued off topic posts which seem to be preaching, not sharing her ESH. She's posting from a source that she isn't disclosing thinking that if she docent disclose the source then she's not in violation of " posting non-AA sanctioned material" The discussion looked up the website which promotes AA and encourages sharing the material. So it was determined theres no copy right infringement, and the discussion centered on every individual being able to use the delete key if they should choose not to read the material being sent. I also had an upcoming chair and posted the topic, Personal Recovery sharing Styles, attraction not promotion in an effort to try to encourage this person to share herself, not some literature.

The following positions were open:

Danna stepped down from Webkeeper and stepped into Biz chair, Tanya Stepped into Webkeeper, and opened up GSR, Suzanne resigned Web Keeper Back-up and Carol resigned Listkeeper, Nancy C stepped into that position.

It feels like musical chairs.

In 2016 we also conducted the group inventory. Results can be found on the website, It was also sent to the steering committee for review to see if we need to add or change any of our existing policies.

Here is the link: Group inventory (opens new page)

Respectfully submitted, Laurie C., Secretary, 10/2015 - 10/2016

Top of Archived October 2016 Buisness Meeting


Our Trusted Servants – October 2016

Trusted Servants who make up the Steering Committee:

Top of October 2016 Business Meeting Archives


Listkeepers' Report

Our membership as of September 30, 2016 is 256. Regular list members 227 and 29 Digest members (this number is always a little larger than our actual count because some members have two subscriptions - one for regular posts and one for digests and some members have two regular list addresses.)

Carol, our former listkeeper found that she was too busy to stay on as listkeeper. Having just been widowed and needing to keep busy I (Nancy C) stepped in to fill out Carol's term until April 2017. Louise and I have been working together for years and have a great working relationship!

Our Greeters, Susan and Karrie are both fast learners and are doing an excellent job and we all enjoy working together!

There has been some discussion about new members leaving shortly after joining GROW and why this is happening. Our members may need a reminder not to be too pressuring with new members...

Louise H & Nancy C | Co-Listkeepers GROW
Nancy C. 10/2016 - 04/2017
Louise H. 04/2016 - 04/2018

Top of October 2016 Business Meeting Archives


Treasurers Report

Please find enclosed the Treasurers Report for April through Sept 2016.

Balance Mar 2016 $1166.11
Pd $72.00 Web server
Pd $1014.61 GSO
Balance April 2016 $79.50 Prudent Reserve
Donations $752.47 April - Sept
Balance Sept 2016 $ 831.97

Respectfully submitted, Cheryl Baughman, Grow Treasurer 10/2015 - 10/2017

Top of October 2016 Business Meeting Archives


GSR Report

This is my last GSR report and it has been a pleasure serving GROW in this capacity.

Service - I mentioned this in my last report that serving as a GSR for an on-line group is a bit different than for a f2f HOWEVER it has been a wonderful opportunity to grow from.

I followed the shiny ball in this position and learned a lot about this amazing program we share when writing these reports and it has enriched my program as well as my f2f GSR duties for my home group.

You know any service position truly can enrich your program ... even when you think "what *@$# am I doing?" I feel that a lot however there is always a point in that service position that I "let go and grow". When I do, I actually grow ... imagine that.

I am so very grateful for AA and I am continually amazed at the foresight by our founders in the intricacies of how AA works.

As you know by now, I get a publication called Box 4-5-9 and it which serves as the basis for my reports. Some may be new to GROW and may not know what Box 4-5-9 is?

Box 4-5-9 is AA's "quarterly news bulletin from the U.S./Canada General Service Office. This newsletter includes information about A.A. service, literature, events, sharing from groups, service committees and individual U.S./Canada A.A. members."

Each of you can subscribe to it yourselves - if you like. Here is the address. www.aa.org/pages/en_US/box-4-5-9-news-and-notes-from-gso (opens new page)

As I did in my last report ... I will provide an overview highlighting the key parts in this issue however please do download the current issue to read the articles in full. At the back of each issue is a calendar of events around the world. Be sure to check it out, there may be an event near you.

Printable Box 4-5-9 [PDF] (opens new page)

Other resources worth repeating:

AA Grapevine
Another wonderful resource is the AA Grapevine. The AA Grapevine is the International Journal of Alcoholics Anonymous. It is sometimes called "our meeting in print". You can see in Susan G's (our GVR) report how truly wonderful this resource is.

Sign up for the "Daily Grapevine Quote of the Day", it is a great way to start your day. Check out the website for many other resources ... www.aagrapevine.org (opens new page)

Intergroup
Here is another resource worth repeating. Did you know that throughout the world there are many f2f meetings (our online meeting goes beyond borders) however ... "Where do I find a f2f meeting where I live?" ... You may ask.

Well, glad you asked ... if you go to the Alcoholics Anonymous website (http://www.aa.org) you can put in your zip code or country and it will give you a listing of the Intergroup, Area information or contact.

"What is Intergroup?"

Glad you asked that too. Intergroup acts much like the GSO (General Service Office) however it is more regional. From the AA site 'Intergroup' is "a central office (or intergroup) is an A.A. service office that involves partnership among groups in a community--just as A.A. groups themselves are partnerships of individuals."

For instance, in the Hill Country Intergroup (the Intergroup in my area) offers many services such as a hotline and a tremendous website that provides a listing of meetings in my area. Valuable tools and a source of service opportunities to enrich my own program.

Look for the one in your area. It may be large or may be small or there may be an opportunity to develop one. Whatever the case the Alcoholics Anonymous is there to help. Check out the many resources on the Alcoholics Anonymous website.

In keeping my lengthly report simple I will reframe from highlighting the Box 4-5-9 and would encourage you all to read it for yourselves, there is a lot of information in it. Printable Box 4-5-9 [PDF] (opens new page)

Lastly, the Box 459 Bulletin Board

Items and Ideas on Area Gatherings for AAs via GSO - Fall 2016 | Look on the online version of the Box 4-5-9. You can add your local events as well if you so desire to reach a larger audience. However, there are guidelines.

(From the GSO AA website...) Box 4-5-9 is a quarterly newsletter published by the General Service Office. The newsletter includes a calendar of A.A. events. A.A. events are created by A.A. members, for A.A. members, and are about the A.A. program of recovery from alcoholism.

Some guidelines for listing include:

However due to limited space, Box 4-5-9 does not list:

[Ok, kind of limits that down however IF your event meets the criteria, it could be a great resource for you, oh one more thing ...] To be included in Box 4-5-9, event submissions must be received at G.S.O. at least four months prior to the even www.aa.org/pages/en_US/box-4-5-9-bulletin-board-calendar-of-events (opens new page)

Ok, I took the bite ... What is an Alkathon?

According to one site..."In AA, the holiday season is often referred to as the Bermuda Triangle (once you go in, you may never come out) and the Triple Crown, because if you can make it through early sobriety during those emotionally charged times, you really do deserve some sort of prize. Which is why I love Alkathons.

Alkathons, for those who aren't familiar with the term, are extended meetings that take place on three of the biggest drinking days/nights of the year and typically last 24-hours." In AA, the holiday season is often referred to as the Bermuda Triangle (once you go in, you may never come out) and the Triple Crown, because if you can make it through early sobriety during those emotionally charged times, you really do deserve some sort of prize. Which is why I love Alkathons."

Mmm did not know. I like the first part as my lifeday is 12/5 and I can attest to how hard those holidays can be. So, if you are like me try a Alkathon near you. There you have it ... AA in action.

Thank you for allowing me to serve. With gratitude,
Your GROW GSR - Tanya Q., Group Service Representative, 10/2016 - 10/2017

Top of October 2016 Business Meeting Archives


Business Meeting Discussion

Business Meeting Minutes

Business Meeting Summaries

List of Proposals

  1. Propose making Web Keeper a 5-year rotating term
  2. Propose making this position a voting member of the Steering Committee
  3. Propose to add the following to the web page on Sponsorship
  4. Propose two following changes to the first Temporary Mentor letter
  5. Propose a Summary About Sponsorship
  6. Propose to add "How Should a Sponsor Be Chosen?" to the Sponsor Letter
  7. Propose to add "How Should a Sponsor Be Chosen?" to the Sponsor Letter AND that prospective sponsor worked the 12 steps

Business Meeting Minutes

First 3-Day Period

***Reminder***
This business meeting will operate with 3-day business segments. That will be shorter than previous business meetings, which had 4-day segments for discussion.

***Reminder***
When I send an agenda item for discussion, please do not use Reply or Reply All, as this will direct it back to me or to the business listkeepers. Please be sure to address all emails to grow-business@oso-aa.org.


Second 3-Day Period

Dear Members,

This is a bit complicated; the intention is to synopsize the discussion about procedure during Session 3. I hope it clear to all. Bear with me as you read this, please!

Proposal 3

During Session 3 the group discussed procedure used for Proposal 3.1 and 3.2.

One member felt that 3.1 (the original proposal) contained options not mentioned in 3.2: I think that the member who presented her ideas in Proposal 3.1 was giving us instructions on 'how' to select a sponsor in addition to the idea expressed in the CAL. I agreed with her idea and suggested a couple of tweaks to her Proposal.

In my opinion, we should 'marry' these two Proposals, if possible, in order to capture the original ideas from 3.1 that were not a part of 3.2.

Another member agreed with this opinion and requested clarification. A third member stated: I believe that our current website information re: Sponsorship addresses the other issue raised in the original Proposal 3.0 ... i.e. "how to choose a sponsor".

She then quoted the relevant quote on our sponsorship web page and went on to say:

However, if there is confusion about how Proposal 3.0 was processed in the meeting, it should be clarified. Did the person who submitted Proposal 3.0 indicate that her concerns were addressed?

Personal communication between the proposer and the chair was in favor of the way Proposal 3.2 went out to the group. The chair explained to the members that her intention was for the group to vote on the CAL version and if the vote favored it, the issue was covered. Those who disagreed with any aspect of the way this went could vote No and voice their opinions in Minority Opinion. The chair felt that during discussion, enough consensus was reached to do this. In fact, votes were unanimous in favor of Proposal 3.2.

The proposer contributed this: CAL is fine, I just sent out the proposal to get a conversation started.

The chair's sense of the group conscience, to use CAL when possible, was correct. The procedure was quick and that is unusual for a business meeting. The chair feels this is better than "dead air" time with no discussion on the list.

There is another consideration. The proposer mentions "the letter" in her email (explaining her intentions) and the letter she used was *the letter that goes to potentional GROW sponsors.* The CAL language in Proposal 3 is for *the web site,* an addition to the existing language on that Sponsorship page. When taking in proposals, the chair contacted the Temporary Mentor, thinking that was "the letter" the proposer meant. In fact, the proposer wanted *the Sponsor letter* added too.

So it turns out that we in GROW are covering all our bases, with additional language about how to choose a sponsor: in Proposal 3 (web page), Proposal 4 (TM letter), and the the not yet sent Sponsor letter, Proposal 5. Proposal 5 went out in Session 4 and is currently under discussion.

Proposal 4

As mentioned above, new language for the Temporary Mentor letter was voted on during Session 3. The vote was unanimously in favor of this change.

Proposal 4: I propose two following changes to the first Temporary Mentor letter that is sent out (see the bolded portions below:

I propose two following changes to the first Temporary Mentor letter that is sent out (see the bolded portions below):

Hi! [instead of "Hello XXX"; I think this is less formal and more inviting]

I am [Mentor name], Temporary Mentor for GROW. I see that you joined GROW recently and I'd like to welcome you! In the past, some members have found our information overwhelming at first, so we created this position (Temporary Mentor) as a helpful resource should you have questions and/or concerns about how our group and/or AA works.

If you are looking for an online sponsor, please see our Sponsor List on our website at: www.g-r-o-w.com
username: sobertoday
password: how2484

Go into the "For Members' section at the top of the page. On the right-hand side of the page, you will see "Available Online Sponsors" and click on it. Feel free to contact any one of these ladies for assistance with the Steps and your program. Note that not every sponsor is a good fit for every person, so please reach out to another person if your first choice doesn't work.?

It would be my pleasure to correspond with you by email so if you'd like some help, just let me know. Thanks.

Your name (Your email address)
GROW Temporary Mentor

***

All of the discussion of this Proposal was in agreement with the proposal. It went before the group for the vote during Session 3, which is now going on.

Thank you to all who participate in this discussion.

Yours in service,
Gigi, Biz Chair

Business Meeting Discussion
Top of October 2016 Business Meeting Archives


Third 3-Day Period

Dear Members,

In Session 3 of our business meeting, we had Proposal 4.3 for voting and more discussion about Proposal 3.2.

RE: Proposal 3.2: Members wanted to know why the language change went to the vote instead of more discussion. The Chair explained that the vote allows for disagreement which would then be voiced and discussed through Minority Opinion.

RE: Proposal 4.3: This proposal was passed unanimously.

Proposal 4.3: I propose two following changes to the first Temporary Mentor letter that is sent out (see the bolded portions below:

Hi! [instead of "Hello XXX"; I think this is less formal and more inviting]

I am [Mentor name], Temporary Mentor for GROW. I see that you joined GROW recently and I'd like to welcome you! In the past, some members have found our information overwhelming at first, so we created this position (Temporary Mentor) as a helpful resource should you have questions and/or concerns about how our group and/or AA works.

If you are looking for an online sponsor, please see our Sponsor List on our website at: www.g-r-o-w.com
username: sobertoday
password: how2484

Go into the "For Members' section at the top of the page. On the right-hand side of the page, you will see "Available Online Sponsors" and click on it. Feel free to contact any one of these ladies for assistance with the Steps and your program. Note that not every sponsor is a good fit for every person, so please reach out to another person if your first choice doesn't work.

It would be my pleasure to correspond with you by email so if you'd like some help, just let me know. Thanks.

Your name (Your email address)
GROW Temporary Mentor

*****

Thank you for your participation.

Yours in service,
Gigi, Biz Chair

Business Meeting Discussion
Top of October 2016 Business Meeting Archives


Forth 3-Day Period

During Session 4, the results of the vote on Proposal 4 were announced. This proposal passed unanimously.

***

Proposal 4:

Hi! [instead of "Hello XXX"; I think this is less formal and more inviting]

I am [Mentor name], Temporary Mentor for GROW. I see that you joined GROW recently and I'd like to welcome you! In the past, some members have found our information overwhelming at first, so we created this position (Temporary Mentor) as a helpful resource should you have questions and/or concerns about how our group and/or AA works.

If you are looking for an online sponsor, please see our
Sponsor List on our website at: www.g-r-o-w.com
username: sobertoday
password: how2484

Go into the "For Members' section at the top of the page. On the right-hand side of the page, you will see "Available Online Sponsors" and click on it. Feel free to contact any one of these ladies for assistance with the Steps and your program. Note that not every sponsor is a good fit for every person, so please reach out to another person if your first choice doesn't work.

It would be my pleasure to correspond with you by email so if you'd like some help, just let me know. Thanks.

Your name (Your email address)
GROW Temporary Mentor

***

Proposal 5 was submitted to the group for consideration.

Proposal 5.4: Make the following addition to the Sponsor Letter that goes to GROW each month:

A Summary About Sponsorship

Most present members of Alcoholics Anonymous owe their sobriety to the fact that someone else took a special interest in them and as willing to share a great gift with them.

Sponsorship is merely another way of describing the continuing special interest of a seasoned member that can mean so much to a newcomer turning to A.A. for help.

Individuals and groups cannot afford to lose sight of the importance of sponsorship, the importance of taking a special interest in a confused alcoholic who wants to stop drinking. Experience shows clearly that the members getting the most out of the A.A. program, and the groups doing the best job of carrying the A.A. message to still-suffering alcoholics, are those for whom sponsorship is too important to be left to chance.

By these members and groups, sponsorship responsibilities are welcomed and accepted as opportunities to enrich personal A.A. experience and to deepen the satisfactions that come from working with others.

***

How should a sponsor be chosen?

The process of matching newcomer and sponsor is as informal as everything else in A.A. Often, the new person simply approaches a more experienced member who seems compatible and asks that member to be a sponsor. Most A.A.s are happy and grateful to receive such a request.

An old A.A. saying suggests "Stick with the winners." It's only reasonable to seek a sharing of experience with a member who seems to be using the A.A. program successfully in everyday life. There are no specific rules, but a good sponsor probably should be a year or more away from the last drink - and should seem to be enjoying sobriety. and who has worked all twelve steps.

****

The discussion reflected several points. One point was the puncutation at the end of the quote from our web site: - and should seem to be enjoying sobriety. and who has worked all twelve steps.

One member suggested: Period remains where it is. New sentence: She should be someone who is working all twelve steps.

A second point was if we wish to include the phrase "and who has worked all twelve steps."

The Chair found the exact quote from P-15, the AA pamphlet, "Questions and Answers on Sponsorship." It is exactly the same as the proposal, but does not include the phrase: "and who has worked all twelve steps."

One member states: I'd go for the simple and clean way it is said [below]... with no reference to working the steps at all. (Even when editing, it did strike me it was a little too prescribed!)

Another member concurs: Here is what was suggested to me, find a guide for the 12 Steps who is at least one step ahead of me. When I sobered up there was no internet and very few gals in my tiny fellowship to choose from. Two women to be exact. Finding another AA member in remote areas who has completed all 12 Steps may not be possible for some......

Another member has another opinion: I think we should stick to conference-approved language. If it references having done the 12 steps, fine. But since the brochure does not say that, I prefer to leave it out.

At least 5 members wanted to use CAL language only and at least another 3 express the thought to include the phrase that 'the sponsor has worked all 12 steps.' The Chair requested more discussion to try to arrive at a consensus. None has been reached and the original Proposal, with punctuation corrected, will go to the vote.

Impact: If this Proposal passes by 2/3, it will include the passage that a sponsor should have worked all 12 Steps and that is what our Sponsor letter will state. The way to include the language in the Sponsor letter is to vote Yes for the Proposal. The way to not include the language is to vote No.

If the Proposal fails to make a 2/3 majority, the minority will have the opportunity to change the minds of those who voted for the proposal. If anyone changes their mind, the group revotes. The revote is on the exact same proposal. We do not change the language of it. The time to do that was during discussion, but no alternate Proposal was suggested. The Chair got no sense of consensus so she could not echo that in a changed proposal.

If the Proposal ultimately fails (after minority opinon and revote), no addition will be made to the Sponsor letter at this time. Another Proposal could be brought to our next business meeting in April, using CAL (Conference Approved Literature) language. I hope that this is clear to all who are participating in this meeting.

*****

Thank you for your participation.

Yours in service,
Gigi, Biz Chair

Business Meeting Discussion
Top of October 2016 Business Meeting Archives


Fifth 3-Day Period

Dear Members,

During Session 5 the group voted on Proposal 5. There was no other action during this session.

********

Proposal 5: Make the following addition to the Sponsor Letter that goes to GROW each month:

***Existing Language***

A Summary About Sponsorship

Most present members of Alcoholics Anonymous owe their sobriety to the fact that someone else took a special interest in them and as willing to share a great gift with them.

Sponsorship is merely another way of describing the continuing special interest of a seasoned member that can mean so much to a newcomer turning to A.A. for help.

Individuals and groups cannot afford to lose sight of the importance of sponsorship, the importance of taking a special interest in a confused alcoholic who wants to stop drinking. Experience shows clearly that the members getting the most out of the A.A. program, and the groups doing the best job of carrying the A.A. message to still-suffering alcoholics, are those for whom sponsorship is too important to be left to chance.

By these members and groups, sponsorship responsibilities are welcomed and accepted as opportunities to enrich personal A.A. experience and to deepen the satisfactions that come from working with others.

***End of existing language***

***NEW LANGUAGE***

How should a sponsor be chosen?

The process of matching newcomer and sponsor is as informal as everything else in A.A. Often, the new person simply approaches a more experienced member who seems compatible and asks that member to be a sponsor. Most A.A.s are happy and grateful to receive such a request.

An old A.A. saying suggests "Stick with the winners." It's only reasonable to seek a sharing of experience with a member who seems to be using the A.A. program successfully in everyday life. There are no specific rules, but a good sponsor probably should be a year or more away from the last drink - should seem to be enjoying sobriety, and has worked all twelve steps.

*****

Thank you for your participation.

Yours in service,
Gigi, Biz Chair

Business Meeting Discussion
Top of October 2016 Business Meeting Archives


Sixth 3-Day Period

Dear Members,

During Session 6 we heard the Minority Opinion on Proposal 5.

I voted yes because during my service as secretary there were several incidences that were brought before the small steering committee that prompted some discussions about sponsorship and the responsibility we have towards our new members and newcomers in general.

This developed the proposal to add the " how to choose a sponsor" paragraph to the sponsor letter that is sent out each month.

In my journey at six months sober I asked a lady to sponsor me who had two years in the program. She always seemed happy and sober. However as we started talking she would react to what I was sharing even to the point of talking to others inside and outside of the rooms. This happened because although she was sober, she herself was stuck on step three. She was two stepping. I survived - sobriety intact Although It has made me very vigilant to encourage new people coming in when looking for a sponsor that finding one working the steps is important.

Personally I believe it is important enough to state and talk about. But if the group only wants to go with CAL literature I believe newcomers will benefit from the added language to the letter.

Thank you for listening.

There were no changed votes after Minority Opinion. There were two new Proposals submitted related to this topic.

Proposal 6 offers the addition of the CAL (Conference Approved Literature) language to the Sponsor letter, just as it has been used on our web page.

Proposal 7 offers the same language with the addition of and has worked all twelve steps.

Discussion of these proposals shows the group is in consensus with the use of Proposal 6 and not of Proposal 7.

One member contributed the following, which many members agreed with:

I'm all for 6.

I'm not for 7. Adding that bit about a sponsor working the steps is going way beyond what our Book does even ...

It talks about not even having to go through Step Five with an AA member...!

Of course a sponsor should have trodden the Steps I'd be now taking as a newcomer... I gave up my first sponsor when she told me she'd never done Step Three.

But she'd been perfect for me in the weeks leading up to that. I got so much from her (and it kickstarted her into Step 3 and rest of Steps!)

Leave it, with CAL only, and no addition.

The Proposals are below.

********

Proposal 6: Add "How Should a Sponsor Be Chosen" to the Sponsor Letter that goes to the mailing list each month.

Rationale: Makes the Sponsor Letter consistent with changes already approved for the GROW website and the Temporary Mentor Letter #1 (welcome letter).

Add the following section from "Questions & Answers on Sponsorship" to the Sponsor Letter:

How should a sponsor be chosen?

The process of matching newcomer and sponsor is as informal as everything else in A.A. Often, the new person simply approaches a more experienced member who seems compatible and asks that member to be a sponsor. Most A.A.s are happy and grateful to receive such a request.

An old A.A. saying suggests "Stick with the winners." It's only reasonable to seek a sharing of experience with a member who seems to be using the A.A. program successfully in everyday life. There are no specific rules, but a good sponsor probably should be a year or more away from the last drink - and should seem to be enjoying sobriety.

Proposal 7: Add language to the "How Should a Sponsor Be Chosen" section included in the monthly Sponsor Letter to suggest that a prospective sponsor should have worked the 12 Steps.

Rationale: Working the 12 Steps is a basic part of AA's program of recovery. Members looking for a sponsor should be aware of this when choosing a sponsor. Adding the phrase "and who has worked all 12 Steps." to the end of the last sentence of the "How Should a Sponsor Be Chosen" will highlight this important point.

Recommended addition in red below:

How should a sponsor be chosen?

The process of matching newcomer and sponsor is as informal as everything else in A.A. Often, the new person simply approaches a more experienced member who seems compatible and asks that member to be a sponsor. Most A.A.s are happy and grateful to receive such a request.

An old A.A. saying suggests "Stick with the winners." It's only reasonable to seek a sharing of experience with a member who seems to be using the A.A. program successfully in everyday life. There are no specific rules, but a good sponsor probably should be a year or more away from the last drink - and should seem to be enjoying sobriety and has worked all twelve steps.

*****

Thank you for your participation.

Yours in service,
Gigi, Biz Chair

Business Meeting Discussion
Top of October 2016 Business Meeting Archives


Seventh 3-Day Period

Dear Members,

During session 7 of our business meeting, we voted on two Proposals, 6 and 7. These were offered to clarify the terms of Proposal 5.

Proposal 6 was accepted unanimously. Proposal 6 PASSES and will be added to the Sponsor Letter each month, as well as to the Form Letter section of our web site.

Proposal 7 was rejected by all but one member. She declined to state Minority Opinion in a private communication. Proposal 7 FAILS.

*****

Proposal 6: Add "How Should a Sponsor Be Chosen?" to the Sponsor Letter that goes to the mailing list each month.

Rationale: Makes the Sponsor Letter consistent with changes already approved for the GROW website and the Temporary Mentor Letter #1 (welcome letter).

Add the following section from "Questions & Answers on Sponsorship" to the Sponsor Letter:

How should a sponsor be chosen?

The process of matching newcomer and sponsor is as informal as everything else in A.A. Often, the new person simply approaches a more experienced member who seems compatible and asks that member to be a sponsor. Most A.A.s are happy and grateful to receive such a request.

An old A.A. saying suggests "Stick with the winners." It's only reasonable to seek a sharing of experience with a member who seems to be using the A.A. program successfully in everyday life. There are no specific rules, but a good sponsor probably should be a year or more away from the last drink - and should seem to be enjoying sobriety.

*****

Proposal 7: A?dd language to the "How Should a Sponsor Be Chosen" section included in the monthly Sponsor Letter to suggest that a prospective sponsor should have worked the 12 Steps.

Rationale: Working the 12 Steps is a basic part of AA's program of recovery. Members looking for a sponsor should be aware of this when choosing a sponsor. Adding the phrase "and who has worked all 12 Steps." to the end of the last sentence of the "How Should a Sponsor Be Chosen" will highlight this important point.

Recommended addition in red below:?

How should a sponsor be chosen?The process of matching newcomer and sponsor is as informal as everything else in A.A. Often, the new person simply approaches a more experienced member who seems compatible and asks that member to be a sponsor. Most A.A.s are happy and grateful to receive such a request.An old A.A. saying suggests "Stick with the winners." It's only reasonable to seek a sharing of experience with a member who seems to be using the A.A. program successfully in everyday life. There are no specific rules, but a good sponsor probably should be a year or more away from the last drink - and should seem to be enjoying sobriety and has worked all twelve steps.

*****

At this time, the October 2016 business meeting of ?Grateful Recovering Online Women comes to a close. Thank you all for your participation.

Please welcome Danna as our new Business Chair as I rotate out. Thank you for an intense and productive learning experience.

*****

Thank you for your participation.

Yours in service,
Gigi, Biz Chair rotating out

Business Meeting Discussion
Top of October 2016 Business Meeting Archives


Business Meeting Session Summary

***Summary Business Meeting Session 1***

Our October business meeting began with several reports. The Secretary summarized one issue discussed by the Steering Committee since our April meeting and reminded us that we can see the results of our Group Inventory on the GROW website at Group Inventory 2016. She also presented the list of Trusted Servants for the coming six months (see Current Meeting Oct 2016 Trusted Servants).

Our Listkeepers reported that GROW currently has 227 members, and our Treasurer reported a current balance of $831.97 in our treasury. Our GSR highlighted the newsletter, Box 4-5-9, newsletter includes information about A.A. service, literature, events, sharing from groups, service committees and individual U.S./Canada A.A. members. Box 4-5-9 is available online at Box 4-5-9. She also reminded us of AA's wonderful Grapevine magazine (see AA Grapevine) and explained how important Intergroup is to AA's regional and local functions.

Three proposals were submitted for consideration during the first three days of our business meeting. They included:

  1. Making Web Keeper a 5-year rotating term
  2. Making this position a voting member of the Steering Committee
  3. Adding the following language to the web page on Sponsorship: "No one person is a good fit for everyone. Sponsorship is based on Attraction, not promotion. You pick a sponsor because you want what she has. You pick a sponsor to teach you how to work the Steps in all your affairs. They are not your friend, your counselor, or your confidante. They are a mentor and a teacher of a way of life. You are always free to end a sponsorship relationship."

During this three-day session, the member who offered Proposals 1 and 2 withdrew them. She feels the time is not yet right for offering these to the group, since she has just taken on the Web Keeper position.

The third proposal saw a lot of discussion. Many of the members liked the feeling expressed in the proposal. When one member suggested that we use language from Conference Approved Literature and gave us the pertinent quote, there was general sentiment in favor of that language. The proposal was changed to use language from the brochure: "May a newcomer change sponsors? We are always free to select another sponsor with whom we feel more comfortable, particularly if we believe this member will be more helpful to our growth in A.A." During the next three-day session, we will vote on the revised proposal.

Yours in service,
Gigi, Current Biz Chair
Danna, Incoming Biz Chair and author of this Summary

Business Meeting Discussion


***Summary Business Meeting Session 2***

During the second 3-day period of the October Business Meeting, participants discussed two proposals.

Proposal 3 called for GROW to add the following to the webpage on Sponsorship:

"No one person is a good fit for everyone. Sponsorship is based on Attraction, not promotion. You pick a sponsor because you want what she has. You pick a sponsor to teach you how to work the Steps in all of your affairs. They are not your friend, your counselor, or your confidante. They are a mentor and a teacher of a way of life. You are always free to end a sponsorship relationship."

During the discussion, members suggested that it is more appropriate to use language from conference-approved literature, specifically the brochure "Questions & Answers on Sponsorship." The current webpage already contains brief excerpts from that brochure on how newcomers benefit from having a sponsor and on how to choose a sponsor. Reflecting apparent consensus on this, participants voted to add the following excerpt to GROW's sponsor webpage: "May a newcomer change sponsors? We are always free to select another sponsor with whom we feel more comfortable, particularly if we believe this member will be more helpful to our growth in A.A."

The vote on this proposal reflected consensus approval, and the revised language will be added to the "Available Online Sponsors" webpage.

Proposal 4 was submitted by GROW's current Temporary Mentor to make a couple of changes to the Temporary Mentor form letter. The first change was a simple change of tone by changing "Hello" to "Hi." The second change was to add a sentence that points out to new members the flexibility they have in selecting a sponsor: "Note that not every sponsor is a good fit for every person, so please reach out to another person if your first choice doesn't work."

Comments overwhelmingly approved the suggested changes, and participants are voting on the proposal during the 3rd 3-day session.

Yours in service,
Gigi, Current Biz Chair

Business Meeting Discussion


***Summary Business Meeting Session 3***

Business Meeting Discussion


***Summary Business Meeting Session 4***

During the fourth three-day period of our Business Meeting, one proposal was adopted unanimously and another proposal was discussed by participants.

Participants approved two changes to the Temporary Mentor welcome letter: a minor wording change to change the letter's tone and the addition of a sentence clarifying the sponsorship relationship ("Note that not every sponsor is a good fit for every person, so please reach out to another person if your first choice doesn't work.").

A new proposal was submitted that would revise the monthly Sponsor List Announcement to make it consistent with the already-approved changes. If adopted, the letter would include the same "How Should a Sponsor Be Chosen?" section that was added to the website and the Temporary Mentor Letter #1.

Discussions on the proposal centered on a phrase the proposal added to the language taken from the brochure "Questions & Answers on Sponsorship" that says a prospective sponsor should have worked the 12 Steps. Five participants commented that the addition should be limited to the conference-approved language from the brochure, and three participants preferred adding the statement that a possible sponsor should have worked all 12 Steps. During the fifth three-day session, participants are voting whether to adopt the proposal as submitted.

Yours in service,
Gigi, Current Biz Chair

Business Meeting Discussion


***Summary Business Meeting Session 5***

Dear GROWers,

During Session 5 the group voted on Proposal 5. There was no other action during this session. The proposal added language from AA's "Questions & Answers on Sponsorship" brochure to the monthly Sponsor Letter with "... and has worked all twelve steps" inserted at the end. There were 9 "No" votes and 3 "Yes" votes on the proposal. During the sixth three-day session, those voting "Yes" are invited, but not required, to share their reasons for their vote. After the minority response, members can change their vote, and participants will revote. If no one changes their vote, we will go on to new proposals if time allows.

Yours in service,
Gigi and Danna

Business Meeting Discussion


***Summary Business Meeting Session 6***

Dear GROWers,

During the sixth three-day session of our Business Meeting, minority opinions were heard on the proposal (#5) to add conference-approved language from "How Should a Sponsor be Chosen?" from AA's Questions & Answers on Sponsorship brochure. One participant submitted a minority opinion, but no one changed their vote as a result.

Therefore, the proposal was not approved or adopted. To facilitate progress, proposals were then submitted that offered two options mirroring Proposal 5. One of them included the conference-approved language only (Proposal 6), and the other included the additional phrase "... and has worked all the 12 steps" at the end of the passage (Proposal 7). Participants then discussed the new proposals with apparent consensus favoring the passage without the additional phrase (#6). During the seventh and final three-day session, participants will vote on the two proposals.

Many thanks to Danna for writing this!? She is going to make an excellent Business Chair. :-)

Yours in service,
Gigi, Biz Chair rotating out

Business Meeting Discussion
Top of October 2016 Business Meeting Archives


Proposals

  1. Propose making Web Keeper a 5-year rotating term
  2. Propose making this position a voting member of the Steering Committee
  3. Propose to add the following to the web page on Sponsorship
  4. Propose two following changes to the first Temporary Mentor letter
  5. Propose a Summary About Sponsorship
  6. Propose to add "How Should a Sponsor Be Chosen?" to the Sponsor Letter
  7. Propose to add "How Should a Sponsor Be Chosen?" to the Sponsor Letter AND that prospective sponsor worked the 12 steps

Proposal 1: Propose making Web Keeper a 5-year rotating term

Rationale - There are three important factors in proposing a "termed" position and a longer term limit than the typical 2-year.

On page 19 of the pamphlet "The AA Group" --under "What Trusted Servants (Officers) Do We Need?": It reflects the strength of Tradition 2 in the AA Group by reminding us of the importance of term limits. "Our leaders are but trusted servants; they do not govern."

Being in recovery we understand the need to let go and to be honest, it is difficult. However, by working the program we also have come to see the beauty in letting go and growing. The same with our service positions.

Many times I thought I would never grow in a service positon I knew nothing about, and yet when I let go and "served" ... I grew.

Similarly, when I get too comfortable in a service position, I do not grow. This is another one of those amazing paradoxes in our program.

Maintaining a website and ensuring consistency suggests that a longer term would be better for this position than the typical 2 years. An odd-numbered term limit would allow the webkeeper's rotation to fall in the middle of the business chair's term. These positions work closely during the business meetings by posting minutes and updating our website, based on the group conscious.

NOTE: Ideally, the year prior to rotating off, the webkeeper would be training her replacement to assume duties at the end of her term.

***Discussion on Proposal 1***

During this session, the member who offered Proposals 1 and 2 withdrew them. She feels the time is not yet right for offering these to the group, since she has just taken on the Web Keeper position.

Proposal withdrawn


Proposal 2: Propose making this position a voting member of the Steering Committee

Rationale - The webkeeper position would have a rotating term limit.

***Discussion on Proposal 2***

During this session, the member who offered Proposals 1 and 2 withdrew them. She feels the time is not yet right for offering these to the group, since she has just taken on the Web Keeper position.

Proposal withdrawn


Proposal 3: Propose to add the following to the web page on Sponsorship

***No one person is a good fit for everyone. Sponsorship is based on Attraction, not promotion. You pick a sponsor because you want what she has. You pick a sponsor to teach you how to work the Steps in all your affairs. They are not your friend, your counselor, or your confidante. They are a mentor and a teacher of a way of life. You are always free to end a sponsorship relationship.***

Rationale - The small Steering Committee noticed that several new members left our group due to negative interactions with sponsors. There is more on this in the List Keepers and Secretary reports.

***Discussion on Proposal 3***

During the discussion, members suggested that it is more appropriate to use language from conference-approved literature, specifically the brochure "Questions & Answers on Sponsorship."

Specific points included:

The current webpage already contains brief excerpts from that brochure on how newcomers benefit from having a sponsor and on how to choose a sponsor. Reflecting apparent consensus on this, participants voted on Proposal 3.2 to add the following excerpt to GROW's sponsor webpage:

"May a newcomer change sponsors? We are always free to select another sponsor with whom we feel more comfortable, particularly if we believe this member will be more helpful to our growth in A.A.".

Proposal 3.2 passed unanimously. Thank you to all who took the time to vote.


Proposal 4: Propose two following changes to the first Temporary Mentor letter

I propose two following changes to the first Temporary Mentor letter that is sent out (see the bolded portions below:

Hi! [instead of "Hello XXX"; I think this is less formal and more inviting]

I am [Mentor name], Temporary Mentor for GROW. I see that you joined GROW recently and I'd like to welcome you! In the past, some members have found our information overwhelming at first, so we created this position (Temporary Mentor) as a helpful resource should you have questions and/or concerns about how our group and/or AA works.

If you are looking for an online sponsor, please see our Sponsor List on our website at: www.g-r-o-w.com
username: sobertoday
password: how2484

Go into the "For Members' section at the top of the page. On the right-hand side of the page, you will see "Available Online Sponsors" and click on it. Feel free to contact any one of these ladies for assistance with the Steps and your program. Note that not every sponsor is a good fit for every person, so please reach out to another person if your first choice doesn't work.

It would be my pleasure to correspond with you by email so if you'd like some help, just let me know. Thanks.

Your name (Your email address)
GROW Temporary Mentor

***Discussion on Proposal 4***

Proposal 4 was discussed and will be voted on in Session 3.

Proposal 4.3 passed unanimously. Thank you to all who took the time to vote.


Proposal 5.4: Make the following addition to the Sponsor Letter that goes to GROW each month:

A Summary About Sponsorship

Most present members of Alcoholics Anonymous owe their sobriety to the fact that someone else took a special interest in them and as willing to share a great gift with them.

Sponsorship is merely another way of describing the continuing special interest of a seasoned member that can mean so much to a newcomer turning to A.A. for help.

Individuals and groups cannot afford to lose sight of the importance of sponsorship, the importance of taking a special interest in a confused alcoholic who wants to stop drinking. Experience shows clearly that the members getting the most out of the A.A. program, and the groups doing the best job of carrying the A.A. message to still-suffering alcoholics, are those for whom sponsorship is too important to be left to chance.

By these members and groups, sponsorship responsibilities are welcomed and accepted as opportunities to enrich personal A.A. experience and to deepen the satisfactions that come from working with others.

How should a sponsor be chosen?

The process of matching newcomer and sponsor is as informal as everything else in A.A. Often, the new person simply approaches a more experienced member who seems compatible and asks that member to be a sponsor. Most A.A.s are happy and grateful to receive such a request.

An old A.A. saying suggests "Stick with the winners." It's only reasonable to seek a sharing of experience with a member who seems to be using the A.A. program successfully in everyday life. There are no specific rules, but a good sponsor probably should be a year or more away from the last drink - and should seem to be enjoying sobriety. and who has worked all twelve steps.

***Discussion on Proposal 5.4***

Proposal 5 was voted on during session 5. The result was 9 No votes and 3 Yes votes. This Proposal has met the 2/3 requirement and it has failed.


Proposal 6: Add "How Should a Sponsor Be Chosen?" to the Sponsor Letter that goes to the mailing list each month.

Rationale: Makes the Sponsor Letter consistent with changes already approved for the GROW website and the Temporary Mentor Letter #1 (welcome letter).

Add the following section from "Questions & Answers on Sponsorship" to the Sponsor Letter:

How should a sponsor be chosen?

The process of matching newcomer and sponsor is as informal as everything else in A.A. Often, the new person simply approaches a more experienced member who seems compatible and asks that member to be a sponsor. Most A.A.s are happy and grateful to receive such a request.

An old A.A. saying suggests "Stick with the winners." It's only reasonable to seek a sharing of experience with a member who seems to be using the A.A. program successfully in everyday life. There are no specific rules, but a good sponsor probably should be a year or more away from the last drink - and should seem to be enjoying sobriety.

***Discussion on Proposal 6***

Proposal 6 passed unanimously. Thank you to all who took the time to vote.


Proposal 7: Add language to the "How Should a Sponsor Be Chosen" section included in the monthly Sponsor Letter to suggest that a prospective sponsor should have worked the 12 Steps.

A Summary About Sponsorship

Rationale: Makes the Sponsor Letter consistent with changes already approved for the GROW website and the Temporary Mentor Letter #1 (welcome letter).

Recommended addition: in bold below

How should a sponsor be chosen?

The process of matching newcomer and sponsor is as informal as everything else in A.A. Often, the new person simply approaches a more experienced member who seems compatible and asks that member to be a sponsor. Most A.A.s are happy and grateful to receive such a request.

An old A.A. saying suggests "Stick with the winners." It's only reasonable to seek a sharing of experience with a member who seems to be using the A.A. program successfully in everyday life. There are no specific rules, but a good sponsor probably should be a year or more away from the last drink - and should seem to be enjoying sobriety and has worked all twelve steps.

***Discussion on Proposal 7***

Proposal 7 had one Yes voter and everyone else voted against it. I privately asked the Yes voter if she wished to state her Minority Opinion and she declined. Proposal failed. Thank you to all who took the time to vote.

List of October 2016 Proposals
October 2016 Business Meeting Discussion
Top of October 2016 Business Meeting Archives


Business Meeting - April 2016

Secretary’s Report

The first half of my term was very uneventful. One member used email addresses to solicit funds for a personal endeavor, and the steering committee discussed the issue and agreed with tradition 6, which states “That we ought not lend our name to outside endeavors that problems of money, property, and prestige divert us from our primary purpose.” It was discussed that having the emails gained through our group could be seen as “ grow” supporting the endeavor and would open the door to more of similar requests.

Top of April 2016 Business Meeting Archives

Our Trusted Servants – April 2016

Trusted Servants who make up the Steering Committee:

Top of April 2016 Business Meeting Archives

Listkeepers' Report - April 2016

Our membership as of March 31, 2016 is 189 Regular list members and 23 Digest members (this number is always a little larger than our actual count, because some members have two subscriptions - one for regular posts and one for digests and some members have 2 regular list addresses.

In February 2016, as per an earlier group conscience decision, the listkeepers conducted the annual roll-call (please see the archived minutes at http://www.g-r-o-w.com/members/biz/arch/2013.htm for details about this).

At the start of the roll-call, the list had about 281 members. The roll-call was conducted over a 3-week period, during which the listkeepers asked members to respond to the listkeepers as "present."

At the end of the three-week period, those who had not responded to the roll call were unsubscribed from the list. We ended with 173 members. Some of those who had been unsubbed contacted us to be reinstated.

I want to thank co-listkeeper Carol for her great service to GROW in the past two years, first as a Greeter then as my Co-Listkeeper. Carol will continue as Co-Listkeeper with our former Greeter, Louise H as her Co-Listkeeper. Also want to thank Greeter Jean for her great service & Laura B for her service as Greeter. Louise H also stepped in when needed as a Greeter & we thank her!

Nancy C, Outgoing Co-Listkeeper
Carol C, Co-Listkeeper

Top of April 2016 Business Meeting Archives

GSR Report

Establishing connection with AA General Service Office and understanding the difference between online and traditional GSR reporting.

Receive first publication of Box 4-5-9 and also trying to determine what other information to post to group.

Would like to submit to group quarterly calendar of events of AA worldwide and post entire Box 4-5-9 to group.

Any other suggestions appreciated.

BIZ CHAIR NOTE: GSR is free to post any information about AA as a whole to the group.

Top of April 2016 Business Meeting Archives

Treasurers Report

Month Donations for Month Balance
Oct 2015 $239.51 $239.51
Nov 2015 $135.01 $374.52
Dec 2015 $31.78 $406.30
Jan 2016 $132.56 $538.86
Feb 2016 $240.86 $779.72
Mar 2016 $386.39 $1166.11

One other item I would like to report: In May I will be taking a long awaited vacation and will not have Internet access during a large portion of my trip. I have asked Suzanne H to send the "Passing the Basket" letter out for me during my absence. She has kindly agreed to take care of that duty. There may be a short delay in getting checks deposited that are sent to me in the mail but all PayPal donations and checks can be sent as usual during my absence. I will bring our account up to date when I return in late May.

Top of April 2016 Business Meeting Archives

Proposals

First 3-Day Period

***Reminder***
This business meeting will operate with 3-day business segments. That will be shorter than previous business meetings, which had 4-day segments for discussion.

***Reminder***
When I send an agenda item for discussion, please do not use Reply or Reply All, as this will direct it back to me or to the business listkeepers. Please be sure to address all emails to grow-business@oso-aa.org.

Top of April 2016 Business Meeting Archives

1.1 Steering Committee Purpose and Function

We have one item of business for this meeting. It is the report from the Ad Hoc Committee on the GROW Steering Committee. They have a proposal for us. The subject was initially mentioned during the April 2015 business meeting, but there was no action taken on it in the interim period. This committee was formed at the end of the October 2015 business meeting. The members are Laura G., Susan G., Danna M., and Tanya Q. They have come up with our only agenda item:

STRUCTURE: The Steering Committee is made up of all of the Trusted Servants who are serving in a volunteer position of at least one year, as well as the Immediate Past Business Meeting Chair, Immediate Past Secretary, and Immediate Past GSR/OIAA Back-up.

PURPOSE: The Steering Committee oversees the day-to-day operations of the GROW group to ensure that we are carrying the message of Alcoholics Anonymous in accordance with the Steps and Traditions of AA, and the Group Conscience decisions of the GROW group.

In so doing, it is anticipated that this Committee will, if requested, evaluate a situation and simply reinforce adherence to the AA Traditions and the group conscience decisions of the GROW group. If further change seems necessary, this Committee should submit a proposal at the next Business Meeting so that the issue can be formally addressed and resolved by the GROW group.

It is intended that the Steering Committee will function with accountability and transparency to the GROW membership, and will provide a summary report of any activity at the next Business Meeting following such activity. The Business Chairperson, or her designee, will submit this report to the Business Meeting. ((see results)

List of Proposals
Top of April 2016 Business Meeting Archives

2.2 Steering Committee: Who To Contact

Any GROW member may contact the Business Meeting Chair, the Secretary or the Listkeepers to bring a concern or question for consideration to the Steering Committee.

WHO TO CONTACT FOR ASSISTANCE: For confidential assistance with questions, concerns, or issues, contact the Business Meeting Chair or Secretary or Listkeepers (see lists of Trusted Servants and Steering Committee Members) on the website at:  http://www.g-r-o-w.com/members/ts/ts.htm. (see results)

List of Proposals
Top of April 2016 Business Meeting Archives

3.2 Proposal: Contributions

Our Treasurer writes: I would like to ask the group for clarification regarding our donation to the GSO. In the past we sent 20% of remaining funds to OIAA (after bills and prudent reserve) and 80% to GSO. Last year it was decided we would no longer send OIAA a donation. There was never any formal decision made regarding where that money was to go. Are we sending 100% of our remaining funds to GSO?

In October 2014, the Group Conscience decision was to discontinue sending funds to OIAA, after that group failed to cash our checks for a period of six months. In reviewing the OIAA report for this business meeting, OIAA does a lot of good work and that decision could be reviewed. GROW has passed our year-long "no revisit" time period. (see results)

List of Proposals
Top of April 2016 Business Meeting Archives

4.3 OIAA Membership
Do we wish to remain members of the Online Intergroup if we do not wish to send them donations? (see results)

List of Proposals
Top of April 2016 Business Meeting Archives

5.3 Job Descriptions to Reflect Steering Committee Decisions
The Business Chair, Secretary and Listkeepers will be available to answer questions, concerns, and issues from any member of GROW. These Trusted Servants will confer among each other to provide an appropriate answer or resolution based on prior Group Conscience guidelines, and will respond back to the inquiring member. (see results)

6.3 Business Chair Report on Steering Committee Actions
The Business Chair, or her designee, will provide a summary report of any activity involving the Steering Committee at the next Business Meeting following such activity. (see results)

List of Proposals
Top of April 2016 Business Meeting Archives

First 3-Day Period

Members discussed Proposal 1.1, the Statement of Purpose and Function of the Steering Committee. The Proposal was split into two parts: (1) the Statement and (2) the identification of a limited number of Trusted Servants (Business Chair, Secretary, and Listkeepers) who would receive and resolve issues that come up between business meetings.

List of Proposals
Top of April 2016 Business Meeting Archives

Second 3-Day Period

Members voted on the first (Proposal 1.1) and second (Proposal 2.2 - Who to Contact) parts of the Steering Committee proposal. A new proposal was raised, and members discussed whether to reinstate the group’s contributions to OIAA (Proposal 3.2).

List of Proposals
Top of April 2016 Business Meeting Archives

Third 3-Day Period

1.2 Purpose and Function of the Steering Committee
This motion passed unanimously. There was one disagreeing vote but the member withdrew from the business list totally. She will not be voicing a minority opinion therefore it is unanimous.

We also need to vote on job description changes for the 4 members who are the first contacts: Business Chair, Secretary and the two listkeepers, and make an addition to our Business Chair's job description about reporting activity that occurs between business meetings. Current practice is that Business Chairs do not make a report.

List of Proposals
Top of April 2016 Business Meeting Archives

Group Conscience Decision: Steering Committee Purpose and Function

STRUCTURE: The Steering Committee is made up of all of the Trusted Servants who are serving in a volunteer position of at least one year, as well as the Immediate Past Business Meeting Chair, Immediate Past Secretary, and Immediate Past GSR/OIAA Back-up.

PURPOSE: The Steering Committee oversees the day-to-day operations of the GROW group to ensure that we are carrying the message of Alcoholics Anonymous in accordance with the Steps and Traditions of AA, and the Group Conscience decisions of the GROW group.

FUNCTION: In so doing, it is anticipated that this Committee will, if requested, evaluate a situation and simply reinforce adherence to the AA Traditions and the group conscience decisions of the GROW group. If further change seems necessary, this Committee should submit a proposal at the next Business Meeting so that the issue can be formally addressed and resolved by the GROW group.

Group Conscience Decision: Who To Contact for Issues in GROW
Our second motion, 2.2, passed unanimously. It lets us know who to contact first when any member has an issue in GROW. This is the first group of persons to contact. If need be, the entire Steering Committee can be brought into any major decision between business meetings. We find that very little of this nature happens, and most day-to-day issues can be handled by these four members.

Who to Contact for Assistance
For confidential assistance with questions, concerns, or issues, contact the Business Meeting Chair, Secretary, or Listkeepers. See lists of Trusted Servants and Steering Committee Members on the website at: http://www.g-r-o-w.com/members/ts/ts.htm

List of Proposals
Top of April 2016 Business Meeting Archives

There are two items that need to be discussed that refer to the job descriptions for the changes we voted on, 1.2 and 2.2.

The first is as follows:

(1) Proposal 5.3: Job Descriptions

The Business Chair, Secretary and Listkeepers will be available to answer questions, concerns, and issues from any member of GROW. These Trusted Servants will confer among each other to provide an appropriate answer or resolution based on prior Group Conscience guidelines, and will respond back to the inquiring member.

If the issue is not resolved with the inquiring member or falls outside the Group Conscience Guidelines, the said Trusted Servants (TS) will present the question / issue to the Steering Committee (SC) for input and resolution. Once resolved, the TS would follow through with informing the inquiring member of the answer and / or direction. (see results)

(2) The following is to be inserted in the Business Chair's job description:
Proposal 6.3: Business Chair Report on Steering Committee Actions
The Business Chair, or her designee, will provide a summary report of any activity involving the Steering Committee at the next Business Meeting following such activity. (see results)

List of Proposals
Top of April 2016 Business Meeting Archives

3.3 Contributions
Pursuant to our discussion of contributing to OIAA, we will continue the discussion about where to donate our funds.

We have also begun to discuss where we want to send our donations. We used to send 20% to OIAA and 80% to GSO, but we discontinued the OIAA donations when they stopped cashing our checks. We want to try to decide on a policy. That discussion continues in Segment 3. (see results)

List of Proposals
Top of April 2016 Business Meeting Archives

Fourth 3-Day Period

During Segment 3 we had four topics of discussion.

4.3 OIAA Membership
There is no proposal yet. This is an evaluation of our OIAA membership to consider if we want to continue it before the secretary looks for another OIAA Rep.

Our OIAA Rep has stepped down, and before our secretary puts out the call for a new rep, she thought we might discuss our membership in OIAA. There has been very little discussion on this topic and it would be good to be sure it is at least addressed before we take any action. (see results)

3.3 Contributions
This topic generated the most discussion. We discussed the merits of sending our contributions to the General Service Office for the United States and Canada. There was some discussion also about other GSOs in other parts of the world. Many members were not aware that the US/Canada GSO is not the GSO for the world. Some explanation was involved for that. The general feeling seems to be that we do not want to contribute to OIAA any longer. For Segment 4, we will vote on making our contributions to US / Canada GSO 100%.

We discussed sending our contributions 100% to GSO and reconfirmed that we do not wish to send them to OIAA (Online Intergroup of AA). Then we discussed the fact that GSO in New York is one of many GSOs around the world, and in fact only serves the US and Canada. Its work is worldwide but many GSOs such as the one in Australia do work outside of their own nation as well. We will vote on this motion in our next Segment. (see results)

List of Proposals
Top of April 2016 Business Meeting Archives

5.3 Job Descriptions to Reflect Steering Committee Decisions — Changes
With new additions to the job descriptions for Business Chair, Secretary, and Listkeepers, there has been very little discussion. Since this appears to be details, we will vote on this in the next Segment.

Since we voted in the Who To Contact trusted servants as Business Chair, Secretary, and Listkeepers, there are some technicalities that need to be added to the job descriptions for these positions. This will go to a vote in Segment 4, as there was very little discussion on it in Segment 3. (see results)

6.3 Business Chair Report on Steering Committee Actions
This also pertains to the motion we voted in during Segment 2. The Business Chair would be responsible to see that a report is made to the business meeting for whatever was brought to the Steering Committee or small group of TSs during the period of time between business meetings. The Business Chair can make this report herself or designate someone else such as the Secretary to do it. This too will go to the vote during Segment 4. (see results)

List of Proposals
Top of April 2016 Business Meeting Archives

There will be three votes during this segment, and one continuing discussion.

3.4 Contributions
We will vote on the proposal that "100% of our GROW contributions to go to US / Canada General Service Office in New York." (see results)

4.4 OIAA Membership

Do we wish to remain members of the Online Intergroup if we do not wish to send them donations? So many of our past OIAA Reps have complained of the lack of interest in OIAA by GROW members. They tell of a very disorganized group that does little. Do we want to continue to send a Rep to OIAA? Please discuss. (see results)

List of Proposals
Top of April 2016 Business Meeting Archives

5.4 Job Description Changes
We will vote on the technical additions to the job descriptions for Business Chair, Secretary, and Listkeepers as the Who To Contact members of the Steering Committee. (see results)

6.4 Business Chair Report
We will vote on the proposal that "The Business Chair makes sure a report is made to the Business list for the 6-month interim by doing it herself or appointing someone." (see results)

List of Proposals
Top of April 2016 Business Meeting Archives

The 4th three-day segment of our business meeting has come to a close. Here is a summary of our work in this segment.

3.4 Contributions
GROW will send 100% of our donations (after Prudent Reserve and our own bills) to the US / Canada General Service Office of AA in New York.

This motion has passed with a vote of 16 in favor and 2 opposed. Minority Opinion will be heard on this motion in our next Segment; instructions will follow. (see results)

4.4 OIAA Membership
Per our Secretary's proposal, we discussed membership in OIAA. In our next segment we will vote on staying in OIAA (Online Intergroup of AA). The discussion was animated and ranged from some members going back to whether or not we should contribute to OIAA -- not meant to be a topic in this discussion -- to posting the OIAA Report on our web site.

Mention was made of a number of concerns about our membership in the Intergroup. We considered letting go our membership in OIAA, keeping our membership once we had a volunteer for the OIAA Rep position, a call for listing the current topics of discussion and their disposition, and what to post on the GROW website regarding the OIAA Rep's report.

Near the end of the segment, the Chair sent information about what it means to be part of an Intergroup as a preface to the vote which will be taken in Segment 5, April 13 - 15. The motion will be posted in Segment 5. (see results)

List of Proposals
Top of April 2016 Business Meeting Archives

5.4 Job Description Additions for Steering Committee Trusted Servants

This motion passed unanimously. This too needs to be added to the Business Chair's job description, Web Keeper and Back Up! Please and Thank You!

JOB DESCRIPTION. The Business Chair, Secretary and Listkeepers will be available to answer questions/concerns/issues from any member of GROW. These Trusted Servants will confer among each other to provide an appropriate answer or resolution based on prior Group Conscience guidelines, and will respond back to the inquiring member.

If the issue is not resolved with the inquiring member or falls outside the Group Conscience Guidelines, the said Trusted Servants (TS) will present the question / issue to the Steering Committee (SC) for input and resolution. Once resolved, the TS would follow through with informing the inquiring member of the answer and / or direction.

(Note to Webkeeper: If approved, this will be inserted in the Job Descriptions of the Business Chair, Secretary, and Listkeepers).

List of Proposals
Top of April 2016 Business Meeting Archives

6.4 Business Chair Report

This motion passed unanimously. This too needs to be added to the Business Chair's job description, Web Keeper and Back Up! Please and Thank You!

The following is to be inserted in the Business Chair's job description:
The Business Chairperson, or her designee, will provide a summary report of any activity involving the Steering Committee at the next Business Meeting following such activity.

Segment 4 is now closed. Thank you to all who participated in this discussion.

List of Proposals
Top of April 2016 Business Meeting Archives

Fifth 3-Day Period

There are two items of business that call for our attention during the next three days:

3.5 Minority Opinion on Contributions
First, we have two minority voters for Motion 3.4 regarding GROW contributions. I will repost the motion and ask those that voted against it to state the reasons why they are opposed. If the minority opinions change the mind of any members who voted FOR the motion, we will revote on the issue during Segment 6, April 16 - 18. If no "In Favor" or "Yes I Agree" voters change their minds, the issue stands as voted. (see results)

4.5 OIAA Membership
Second, we will vote on membership in OIAA. Since we have a member waiting in the wings to take on duties as OIAA Rep, if we vote to remain in OIAA then she can begin as our Rep. (see results)

List of Proposals
Top of April 2016 Business Meeting Archives

Motion 3.5 -- Minority Opinion

During Segment 5, we heard the Minority Opinion on Motion 3.5: GROW will send 100% of our donations (after Prudent Reserve and our own bills) to the US / Canada General Service Office of AA in New York.

The minority expressed that while they regard GSO for US and Canada as certainly a worthwhile entity to donate to, that we could donate a percentage to the GSOs in other countries as well. There is outreach to women alcoholics in India through the Australia GSO, for instance. It is good to donate to a number of worthy causes rather than only one, mentioned another. We have members from other nations who would like to see this done by GROW, making us a truly international group of AA women.

The Biz Chair made an error based on experience in f2f Assemblies; she tried to revise the motion within the business segment. Unfortunately, f2f practices do not translate into our online format. The Chair regrets this error and withdrew the revised motion.

The revote on Motion 3.5 will take place during Segment 6, April 16 - 18. If the revote is 2/3 majority, the motion will stand as a Group Conscience Decision for at least one year. If the vote does not pass by the 2/3 required, the Chair will request an ad hoc committee to study the issue and come up with a proposal for the October business meeting. The Treasurer will be requested to continue to pay the bills and wait for the results in October before making a donation. (see results)

List of Proposals
Top of April 2016 Business Meeting Archives

Motion 4.5 OIAA Membership Vote
GROW will remain in OIAA and continue to send a Representative to Intergroup meetings.

The vote to remain in OIAA and keep a Rep in the Intergroup passed 15 - 2. This is easily a 2/3 majority. Since we have two voters who voted against it, we will hear from them in Segment 6. I hope that we are all familiar now with Minority Opinion: if anyone changes her mind about her "In Favor" vote based on the opinions expressed by the Nay voters, please let the group know or contact the Chair privately. We will then revote. If no one changes her mind, the vote will stand as a Group Conscience Decision for a minimum of one year. (see results)

We are nearing the point of our meeting (the 17th of the month) where we try to wrap up. From this point on no new business will be considered.

List of Proposals
Top of April 2016 Business Meeting Archives

Sixth 3-Day Period

Motion 3.6 Contributions is in REVOTE. Motion 4.6 is in Minority Opinion. We should know by the end of Segment 6 if either motion needs to be tabled. I will post the Motions separately.

During Segment 6, we will revote on Motion 3.5. It will be renumbered to 3.6, to correspond with the Segment we are working on. The motion will be the same as before.

Motion 3.6: Contributions
GROW will send 100% of our donations (after Prudent Reserve and our own bills) to the US / Canada General Service Office of AA in New York. (see results)

Also during Segment 6, we will read Minority Opinion on Motion 4.6. Our two minority voters have the opportunity to express why they voted against this motion. If any member who voted for the motion changes her mind, please let us know. You may write to the Chair privately or to the group as a whole. If no one changes her mind, the vote will stand as is.

List of Proposals
Top of April 2016 Business Meeting Archives

Motion 4.6: OIAA Membership
GROW will remain in OIAA and continue to send a Representative to Intergroup meetings.

The minority voters may express their reasons at any time. (see results)

I waited until the 16th to post the agenda for this Segment. Our guidelines mention that any business not complete by the 17th is tabled. Since this segment runs over the 17th and into the 18th, I ask that you please bear with me as we wrap up these two items. We may not have to table them. (see results)

Note: If any item on the agenda has not reached a 2/3 majority vote by the 17th day of the business meeting, the item is tabled and held over to the next scheduled business meeting.

List of Proposals
Top of April 2016 Business Meeting Archives

Seventh 3-Day Period

Seventh 3-Day Period

3.7 Contributions: GROW will send 100% of our donations (after Prudent Reserve and our own bills) to the US / Canada General Service Office of AA in New York.

The proposal was accepted and will stand as is for at least one year.

Proposal 4.7: GROW will remain in OIAA and continue to send a Representative to Intergroup meetings.
GROW will remain in OIAA and continue to send a Representative to Intergroup meetings.

The motion was originally intended to see if the group wishes to remain in OIAA or to leave the Intergroup. The vote was taken during Segment 5. The Minority Opinion was voiced during Segment 6. Members who voted to remain in OIAA changed their minds. The Revote was taken during Segment 7. We do have a member willing to represent us, Yvonne. Thanks to Yvonne for her willingness to serve!

The vote was very close, 9 in favor of remaining in the Intergroup and 8 opposed. A 2/3 majority is required for any motion to pass in a GROW-Business meeting. Since the Minority Opinion did not alter the outcome of the vote, GROW will remain in OIAA for the time being, and we will continue to send a Representative.


At this time, the business meeting is concluded. My personal thanks to one and all for taking part in keeping GROW strong and healthy.

List of April 2016 Proposals
Top of April 2016 Business Meeting Archives
Top of Page

© 2008-present GROW

Template courtesy of www.mitchinson.net (licensed for use and re-design under a CreativeCommons Attribution 3.0 License)
Original public domain image courtesy of BurningWell.org
Use of these designs and graphics does not imply endorsement of these sites or any other resulting links