News and Notes from the General Service Office of A.A.® www.aa.org Vol. 58, No.2 Summer 2012

■ 62nd General Service Conference April 22-27, 2012, members of the 62nd General Service Conference of Alcoholics Anonymous in the United States and Canada met at the Hilton Rye Town, in Rye Brook, New York; the theme was “Anonymity: Our Spiritual Responsibility in the Digital Age.” The 132 Conference members consist of 93 delegates from the Conference areas of the U.S. and Canada; 21 trustees of the General Service Board; 4 A.A.W.S. and Grapevine Board directors; and 14 General Service and Grapevine staff members. The Conference was officially opened Sunday with the roll call by Phyllis H., G.S.O. general manager, followed by Greetings from delegate chair Alan H., Oklahoma. The Keynote Address was given by Western Canada regional trustee Vic P. He said, “Of course, we will always want to enthusiastically examine any benefits inherent in our changing environment. In As Bill Sees It (page 255), from a 1960 Grapevine article, are these amazing words: ‘Nothing matters more to A.A.’s future welfare than the manner in which we use the colossus of modern communication. Used unselfishly and well, it can produce results surpassing our present imagination.’ Adopting that optimistic attitude, this 62nd Conference has inherited a farsighted and creative leadership role. We will want to view all evolving cultural, economic, technological, and demographic circumstances as though our greatest concerns are growth in the worldwide membership of A.A. and the questions we face regarding self-support. We don’t speak specifically of expansion, but in that respect we must always ask how we can better reach and serve the broadest possible range of

alcoholics of whatever age, race, faith, and digital capability. Our principles must be employed as guides that help us navigate unfamiliar seas and never as permanent anchors that keep us from moving forward.” This year’s Conference was chaired by Ward Ewing (nonalcoholic), chairman of the General Service Board; Phyllis H., G.S.O.’s general manager, and Alan H. (Oklahoma), delegate chair. Eva S., G.S.O. staff member, was Conference coordinator. Guest observers to this year’s Conference were Daler M. and Satander B., A.A. trustees from the General Service Board of India. Sunday evening, the Opening Dinner was followed by an Open A.A. meeting, chaired by Ricardo C., District of Columbia, chairperson of the Conference Agenda Committee; the leader was Neil F., North Dakota. Speakers were: Jean M., Western Pennsylvania; Bob O’R., Saskatchewan; M. Tracey O., G.S.O. staff member; Albin Z., Grapevine director; and Rod B., Pacific regional trustee. For those who liked to start their day with an A.A. meeting the 2012 G.S.C. Serenity Group met each morning at 7:30. Bob D., NE Ohio, was the chair; secretary/treasurer was Gerry G., NW Ontario. A Seventh Tradition basket was passed each morning, and at the end of Conference $245 was contributed to the General Service Office. During the week, while Conference members were in meetings, local A.A. members accompanied Confer ence members’ spouses and guests on sightseeing and shopping tours, to A.A. and Al-Anon meetings and various New York City sites. Some enjoyed a matinee of a Broadway play or musicals. There were also visits to the National Museum of the American Indian and the Museum of Modern Art.

Wednesday afternoon at the trustees elections, Marty W. of Sidney, BC, was elected Western Canada regional trustee; Andrew W. of Missoula, Montana will become the new West Central regional trustee. At the Delegates Only Dinner Tuesday evening Roger S., NW Texas, was elected delegate chair for the 63rd Conference; Greg B., Wyoming, will be the alternate chair.

During the busy week Conference committees reviewed the many agenda items before making recommendations to the entire Conference for their review and vote, many items eventually resulting in Conference Advisory Actions. (Highlights of Advisory Actions appear on page 3.) Presentations throughout the week reflected thoughts on and the pros and cons regarding the Conference theme cautioning about our Tradition of Anonymity and Social Web sites. Some of the topics addressed were the role of sponsorship, rotation and young people in the new technology. A.A. members love to hear about the Fellowship’s history, and a high-

Box 4-5-9 is published quarterly by the General Service Office of Alcoholics Anonymous, 475 Riverside Drive, New York, NY 10115, © Alcoholics Anonymous World Services, Inc., 2012 Mail address: P.O. Box 459, Grand Central Station New York, NY 10163 G.S.O.’s A.A. Web Site: www.aa.org Subscriptions: Individual, $3.50 per year; group, $6.00 for each unit of 10 per year. Check—made payable to A.A.W.S., Inc.—should accompany order. To have issues delivered directly to your inbox, register your e-mail on the A.A. Digital Subscription Service on G.S.O.’s Web site.

light of the Conference was a Presentation by G.S.O. archivist (nonalcoholic) Michelle Mirza. Following her talk Michelle played a recording of Bill’s address at the opening of the 1960 Conference — A.A.’s 25th Anniversary year. This was followed by a large screen visual of the Twelve Traditions — from manuscript to bound book. Late Friday afternoon rotating delegates (Panel 61) lined up at the mikes for a two-minute farewell. After Ward Ewing’s closing remarks the Conference was officially closed with the Serenity Prayer in three languages, lead by: English Ken S. (Central California); Guy L. (SE Quebec); and Irene D. (La Viña editor). Conference members met once more at the Saturday morning closing brunch where the rotating trustees gave their goodbye talks: Ken B., West Central regional trustee and Vic P., Western Canada regional trustee. Following brunch approximately 60 delegates visited Stepping Stones, Bill and Lois W.’s home in Bedford Hills, New York. A highlight of the trip for many was the opportunity to sit in the chair at Bill’s desk in Wit’s End, the small building where Bill wrote much of our literature. Both desk and chair date back to the G.S.O. in Newark, N.J. Some may question why we have a Conference every year and the time, labor and expense involved. Steve P., Western Missouri, shared his thoughts about “why” in his Presentation “Service: Our Legacy.” “Opening day of last year’s Conference, I walked into the ballroom and saw what I would call the Super Bowl of the A.A. service structure. I looked around the room and saw 92 other delegates from across the United States and Canada, trustees and directors, and office personnel and thought ‘What am I doing here?’ I went to my room that night and asked the God of my understanding for help, and here is what He came up with: the Conference week was not about me, and the week was not about you all. The week was about my daughter and my son, and your daughters and your sons. It was about the people that have not yet found this God-giving gift of life. 2

“I realize that the A.A. Super Bowl is not played here in New York; it is played in our areas, our districts, and in our groups throughout the United States, and the world. I realize that we here at the Conference are just the equipment managers. We provide the equipment so that our groups, districts, and areas can be better equipped to be of maximum service to God, our Fellowship, and the people that have not yet found our life-giving program. It was about making sure that Alcoholics Anonymous is the future…. No matter what the cost, we have to make sure this program is here tomorrow.”

■ Opening for Two Class A (nonalcoholic) Trustees Following the 2013 General Service Conference there will be openings for two Class A (nonalcoholic) trustees. The trustees’ Nominating Committee asks that trustees, delegates and directors submit any names they deem appropriate as candidates for Class A trustees. Class A trustees are chosen from a variety of professional backgrounds, including doctors, lawyers, clergy, social workers and educators. In seeking applications for all vacancies in Alcoholics Anonymous, the Fellowship is committed to creating a large applicant file of qualified persons, which reflects the inclusiveness and diversity of A.A. itself. Please submit your candidate’s business or professional résumé to the Secretary, trustees’ Nominating Committee, General Service Office, by July 31, 2012.

■ Estimates of Groups and Members 1 as of January 1, 2012 United States Canada

Groups 58,820 5,025 ______

Members 1,290,716 93,983 ________

Sub-Total Correctional facilities2 Internationalists Lone Members

63,845 1,555 3 ______0

1,384,699 38,664 0 105 ________

Total Outside U.S. & Canada3

65,403 48,667 ______ 114,070

1,423,468 710,374 ________ 2,133,842

Grand Total __________

1. The General Service Office does not keep membership records. The information shown here is based on reports given by groups listed with G.S.O., and does not represent an actual count of those who consider themselves A.A. members. 2. U.S. and Canada only. 3. We are aware of A.A. activity in approximately 170 countries, including 62 autonomous general service offices in other lands. Annually we attempt to contact those G.S.O.s and groups that request to be listed in our records. Where current data is lacking we use the previous year’s figures

Box 4-5-9, Summer 2012

■ 2012 Conference Advisory Actions and Additional Considerations Conference Advisory Actions represent recommendations made by the standing committees and approved by the Conference body as a whole; or recommendations discussed and voted upon by all Conference members during general sessions. Some Advisory Actions and a few additional committee considerations appear below in condensed form. A complete list will be published in the Final Conference Report.

Advisory Actions General Service Board Motion—that the General Service Conference supports the General Service Board’s development of a plan to restructure the current A.A. World Services, Inc. and A.A. Grapevine, Inc., corporate and governance structures. The plan may, among other things, address the separate corporate existence of both entitles, as well as issues of governance and operations. The plan will be designed to increase unity, better reach and connect the General Service Office and the Grapevine to the broader Fellowship while addressing financial stability. The plan will be submitted to the 63rd General Service Conference for approval prior to implementation. Floor Action—the limit on one-time bequests from A.A. members to the General Service Board be increased from $3,000 to $5,000. Agenda—that the theme for the 2013 General Service Conference be “The General Service Conference Takes It’s Inventory — Our Solution in Action”; that specific questions listed in the “Inventory Plan,” which were approved by the 2011 G.S.C., be discussed at the 2013, 2014 and 2015 Conferences. Cooperation With the Professional Community—that the phrase “nonalcoholics may attend open A.A. meetings as observers” be added to the “Singleness of Purpose” Statement in C.P.C. literature; that the text in the “What A.A. Does Not Do” section in the C.P.C. pamphlets “A.A. in Your Community,” “If You Are a Professional” and “Members of the Clergy ask about Alcoholics Anonymous” be replaced with the text in the section “What A.A. Does Not Do” in the “A.A. at a Glance” flyer. Corrections—that the revised draft pamphlet “It Sure Beats Sitting in a Cell” be approved.

of the Twelve Concepts for World Services be added to the book As Bill Sees It. Policy/Admissions—that the use of electronic devices at the General Service Conference be approved in keeping with the “Guidelines for Electronic Device Users at the Conference” as presented to the 2012 General Service Conference, superseding the 2004 Advisory Action regarding the use of personal computers at the Conference. Public Information—that the Membership Survey pamphlet and the one-way Membership Survey display be updated to reflect the findings from the 2011 Alcoholics Anonymous Membership Survey with minor editorial changes; that the video public service announcement for the Spanish-speaking community, “Tengo Esperanza,” developed by the trustees’ Public Information Committee, be approved with minor edits. Report and Charter—that the term “Rotation” and its definition be added to The A.A. Service Manual in Chapter One: Introduction to General Service, in the section “Glossary of General Service Terms.” Trustees—that the slate of trustees and officers to be elected at the annual meeting of the General Service Board be approved; that the slate of directors for both the A.A.W.S. and Grapevine Boards be approved.

Additional Considerations Archives—the committee requested that the trustees’ Archives Committee develop a new section in the Archives Workbook on digitizing archival collections intended to provide guidance to local archivists and archives committees responsible for maintaining Area or District archival collections. International Conventions/A.A. Regional Forums—the committee discussed and reviewed the 2025 International Convention Site-Selection Procedures; the committee discussed ways to encourage interest in Regional Forums and shared some experiences that have helped increase member participation in recent Regional Forums in their regions.

Grapevine—that A.A. Grapevine, Inc. move forward with an audio strategy to have members call in and record their story on third-party recording technology; that A.A. Grapevine, Inc., carry out the “Sunset” proposal — a plan to phase out older or slow-moving Grapevine items and archive them digitally or make them available in another format.

Public Information—the committee considered the suggestion from the trustees’ Public Information Committee that A.A. establish a presence on Facebook for the purpose of providing information about A.A. to the public. Before proceeding, however, the committee requested that the General Service Board explore all aspects of this social media page and, if feasible within our Traditions, provide the 2013 Conference Committee on Public Information with an implementation plan that addresses the implications of such a page, including sample content and estimates for implementation cost and maintenance.

Literature—that the revised pamphlet “A.A. and the Armed Services” be approved; that the final revision of the Living Sober booklets, with changes to outdated language or practices, be approved; that the pamphlet “Circles of Love and Service” be revised, and that the trustees’ Committee on Literature prepare a draft pamphlet or progress report for the 2013 Conference Committee on Literature; that the short form

Treatment/Special Needs-Accessibilities—the committee reviewed the Treatment Committee Workbook and Kit and suggested minor changes to the service piece “A.A. Temporary Contact/Bridging the Gap Request” and removed redundant information in the Kit; the committee reviewed the Special Needs/Accessibilities Workbook and Kit and suggested a few changes.

Finance—that the annual delegates fee be increased from $1,200 to $1,600.

Box 4-5-9, Summer 2012

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Reports From Boards and Trustees’ Committees Complete reports, as well as staff reports, may be found in the Final Conference Report (M-23). ■ General Service Board Trustees’ report: Greetings and welcome

to the 62nd General Service Conference, especially to those who are attending their first Conference and to our guest observers from India. While we have a lot of business on our agenda this week, some of which relates to A.A.’s growing presence on the Internet — a presence that has created some challenges — I believe that a higher power will be ever present as we address that “business.” Therefore, it is appropriate that our theme for this Conference is “Anonymity – Our Spiritual Responsibility in the Digital Age.” Bill W. reminds us that not only is anonymity “the greatest protection our society can ever have,” but that “the spiritual substance of anonymity is sacrifice.” It is well then that at this time in A.A.’s history and at this Conference we reexamine our principle of anonymity in the light of the electronic age. Over the past year, our General Service Board has welcomed some new members: Class B trustees J. Gary L., Clayton V., Barbara K., and Nancy H. Additionally, Rod B., Pacific regional trustee, joined A.A.W.S. as a new director and Michele Grinberg, Class A trustee, joined the A.A. Grapevine Corporate Board as a director. We also have a new staff member at G.S.O. Tracey O. joined the G.S.O. family in August and is now serving on the Corrections desk. One of the most significant projects undertaken this year has been the production of our own digital apps to provide the Fellowship with e-book versions of the Big Book and Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions. This was launched in December and is proving to be popular. The Grapevine, Inc. also entered the digital field with its ebook publication of The Language of the Heart. We are hopeful that this method of distributing A.A. literature will grow. In response to last year’s Advisory Action regarding A.A. World Services, Inc. and A.A. Grapevine, Inc., I have been working with an ad hoc committee seeking ways to enhance cooperation and efficiency between the two corporate boards. As a result of this effort, the Grapevine has moved its offices from the 10th floor of the Interchurch Center to a smaller, more economical space on the 12th floor, which will result in considerable savings in the coming years. Much of the Grapevine’s shipping, mailroom and copy center operations are now provided by A.A.W.S., along with its on-site sales, which now occur at G.S.O. And so, as Conference week is upon us

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once again, we begin our work. Let us resolutely continue reaffirming our commitment to carrying A.A.’s lifesaving message. The General Service Conference is a precious gift passed on to us by our forebearers and, as the inheritors of their legacy, it is our responsibility to be sure the hand of A.A. is always there for the still-suffering alcoholic reaching out for help anywhere in the world. As this week unfolds, may a loving God bless you and guide you in your endeavors. Ward Ewing, D.D. (nonalcoholic) chairperson

■ Alcoholics Anonymous World Services, Inc. Directors’ report: Each year directors serving on Alcoholics Anonymous World Services, Inc. report to the General Service Conference on A.A. publications, group services provided by the General Service Office (G.S.O.), and other activities linked directly to A.A.’s primary purpose. The board receives reports from G.S.O. management and staff, reviews updates on group services activity, tracks progress on implementation of Conference and board recommendations related to A.A.W.S., reviews financial reports, prices new and revised publications, considers publishing operations and G.S.O. administrative matters, discusses requests from A.A. members and non-A.A.s seeking permission to reprint A.A. copyrighted literature, and to addresses other pertinent matters. The board utilizes the committee system to address extensive agendas. Committees are: Services (considers the needs of all service assignments); Publishing (reviews reprints, foreign literature and publications matters); Finance (oversees budgeting and financial results); and Nominating (suggests candidates for nontrustee director and general service trustee vacancies). Pam R., chairperson

■ A.A. Grapevine, Inc. Directors’ report: A.A. Grapevine, Inc. is one of two operating corporations of the General Service Board and the multimedia publisher of Grapevine magazine, available on various platforms and in a variety of formats. A.A. Grapevine, Inc. also publishes the Spanish-language La Viña magazine and its related book, CD and audio formats. Since the last Conference, A.A. Grapevine,

Inc. has produced 12 issues of Grapevine, 6 issues of La Viña, an annual wall calendar and pocket planner, and its first two e-books: The Language of the Heart (in English) and The Best of Bill (in English and Spanish). A.A. Grapevine, Inc. distributed 92,688 Grapevine and La Viña books, CDs, and other items including the latest book titles: Step by Step and Emotional Sobriety II. As a mirror of the membership, Grapevine both reflects and belongs to the Fellowship. For 68 years, Grapevine has conveyed the “Voice of A.A.” as a tool for many in recovery, evolving over time and reliably carrying the message to anyone who reaches out for the hand of A.A. Don M., (Colorado), chairperson

■ Archives Trustees’ report: Through its group conscience, and guided by A.A.’s principles and professional standards, the committee undertakes and maintains responsibility and authority for the maintenance and use of the Archives. The committee continues to support the G.S.O. Archives’ commitment to grant access to the archives for legitimate research purposes. The committee approved a new service piece, “Archives Preservation Guidelines,” which was created in response to a 2011 Conference Archives Committee Consideration. It is the first of a planned series of service pieces and has been posted on the “Archives and History” portal of the G.S.O.’s A.A. Web site under the section “Resources for Local A.A. Archivists.” George M., chairperson

■ Audit Committee Trustees’ report: The committee was created as a proactive measure to assist the General Service Board in fulfilling its fiduciary obligation of Prudent Corporate Governance. Terry Bedient, chairperson

■ Compensation Committee Trustees’ report: The committee reports to the General Service Board and reviews and advises A.A. World Services, Inc. and A.A. Grapevine, Inc. on such items as overall compensation Box 4-5-9, Summer 2012

philosophies and policies, annual salary increases process, best compensation practices, and executive compensation. George M., chairperson

■ Conference Trustees’ report: The committee reviewed the Advisory Actions pertaining to the Conference, including the theme chosen for the 62nd Conference. Wel also reviewed topics submitted for consideration as agenda items in 2012, and forwarded them to trustees’ and Conference Committees, or to the A.A.W.S. or Grapevine Corporate Boards. Workshop items and the Conference Evaluation Form were reviewed and no changes were made. El N., chairperson

■ Cooperation With the Professional Community/ Treatment Facilities/Special Needs-Accessibilities Trustees’ report: C.P.C. — A primary focus of this committee is assisting local C.P.C. committees to provide A.A. information to professionals who, through their work, may come in contact with the stillsuffering alcoholic. Treatment/Special Needs-Accessibilities — The committee’s interest in treatment facilities, rehabilitation centers and similar centers is reflected through local A.A. committees on Treatment Facilities, Hospitals & Institutions (H&I) and Bridging the Gap (BTG). A recovery pamphlet, “A.A. for the Alcoholic With Special Needs,” was published as the result of a 2011 Conference Advisory Action. Rod B., chairperson

■ Corrections Trustees’ report: The purpose of the committee is to recommend to the General Service Board actions that support carrying the A.A. message to alcoholics confined in a variety of correctional settings. The final draft and redesign of the pamphlet “It Sure Beats Sitting in a Cell,” was forwarded to the 2012 General Service Conference. Donald C., chairperson Box 4-5-9, Summer 2012

■ Finance and Budgetary Trustees’ report: The trustees’ Finance report and Finance Presentation, both given by Terrance Bedient, (nonalcoholic) treasurer, may be found in the Final Conference Report. For Budget Highlights please see page 6, of this issue of Box 4-5-9.

■ General Sharing Session Trustees’ report: The topic for the August 2011 session was “Carrying the Message to the Native Americans/First Nations People.” In October the topic was “How is the drug court system of mandated A.A. attendance working from the perspective of A.A. . . . .” The topic of the January 2012 Sharing Session was “Concept IX — The General Service Board and Leadership in A.A. — Setting the Example.” George M., chairperson

Central and West Central regions. An “Additional” Regional Forum was held in the Pacific region. Ken B., chairperson

The Next Regional Forums will be: Eastern Canada, July 6-8, St. Catharine’s, and an Additional Forum in the East Central region, August 10-12, Mt. Vernon, Illinois.

■ Literature Trustees’ report: Some of the literature projects the trustees’ Literature Committee forwarded to the 2012 General Service Conference: • Draft revisions to the booklet Living Sober. • Draft revision of the pamphlet “A.A. and the Armed Forces.” • Progress report on the development of literature focusing on spirituality. Roberta L., chairperson

■ International/ World Service Meeting Trustees’ report: This committee is responsible for suggesting policies and actions to assure that the A.A. message is available around the world, especially in areas where there is no established structure. We provide shared experience, support translations of A.A. literature in other languages, and encourage the expansion of regional or zonal meetings. The 22nd World Service Meeting will be held October 21-25, 2012, in New York, with the theme “Rotation: The Heartbeat of A.A.”

■ Nominating Trustees’ report: The responsibilities of this committee encompass criteria for all vacancies, whether in the ranks of trustees, or among key service directors and staff members. The committee recommended slates of General Service Board members, officers of the board, and A.A.W.S. and A.A. Grapevine directors to the annual meeting of the members of the General Service Board in April 2012, following presentation at the 2012 General Service Conference, for disapproval, if any. Vic P., chairperson

Don M. (Louisiana), chairperson

■ Public Information ■ International Conventions/ A.A. Regional Forums Trustees’ report: International Conventions — The purpose of this committee is to work on plans for each forthcoming International Convention. This year the committee reviewed a list of suggested themes for the 80th Anniversary International Convention which will be held in Atlanta, July 2015, and selected “Eighty Years — Happy, Joyous and Free.” Regional Forums — Since the 2011 Conference, Regional Forums have been held in the Northeast, Southwest, East

Trustees’ report: The Committee on Public Information is charged with the responsibility of helping the membership carry the A.A. message of recovery through the general public to the alcoholic who still suffers. This is done by producing television and radio public service announcements (P.S.A.s); preparing and posting press releases on aa.org; coordinating health fairs and other community and school exhibits with local P.I. committees. Projects forwarded to the 62nd Conference include the 2011 A.A. Membership Survey and a Hispanic video P.S.A. Corliss Burke, chairperson

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The Budget Highlights 2012 G.S.O. Budget These budget highlights describe the “OPERATIONS” of the General Service Office—A.A. World Services (the Publishing operation), the General Fund (Service activities) and the Grapevine Operations. It excludes any activities reported separately in the Reserve Fund, Convention Fund, Post Retirement Fund or the Capital Projects Fund. Income: The 2012 budget projects gross sales of $13,000,000. Unit sales are expected to be approximately even with 2011. The 2012 revenue budget includes a provision for eBook sales although it is hard to estimate without any experience. While reviewing and recommending the 2012 budget the A.A.W.S. Board continues to consider that revenue and expense assumptions ultimately affect the long-term fiscal health of the General Service Board and its Reserve Fund. Manufacturing costs are budgeted approximately 6% higher than 2011 and approximately 4% greater than the 2011 budget. Our Publications department anticipates increases in various parts of the manufacturing process. Royalties are budgeted at $28,000 for 2012 even with 2011. There is only one remaining royalty recipient. Shipping and warehousing costs are budgeted approximately 5% higher than the 2011 anticipating inflationary increases. After subtracting manufacturing costs, royalties and shipping expense, gross profit is budgeted at $7,919,500 or 62.3%. Gross profit has been budgeted about $40,000 less than 2011. The 62.3% gross profit percentage anticipated for 2012 compares with 63.7% realized for 2011. It should be recognized that as we continue to strive to have literature available throughout our Service Structure in Spanish and French, as well as English, lower print runs in non- English languages usually result in higher production costs. We strive to have the same selling prices regardless of the manufacturing cost, therefore lower gross profit margins for low volume items affect the overall gross profit percentages. The table below reflects the Gross Profit Percentages from 2007 through the 2012 budget. 2007 56.8%

2008 55.9%

2009 61.1%

2010 64.5%

2011 63.7

2012 Budget 62.3%

Percentage

Prudence dictates that actions have been necessary to control costs and reinforce the revenue stream so as to provide sufficient funds to continue providing services. Trusted servants continue to explore methods to reduce the costs of operations as well as assess the services provided. Contributions: Contribution revenue had shown positive movement for several years. 2008 and 2009 showed reductions, and 2010 rebounded to $6,408,421, $58,400 greater than budgeted and $112,300 greater than the 2009 results. 2011 turned in a disappointing $6,265,649, a decrease of $143,000 from last year. The decrease includes a reduction approximately $75,000 from Countries who contribute to the World Service Meeting literature efforts. For 2012 we have budgeted an increase of approximately 4%. We are hopefully that the economy is turning around and that efforts to better communicate with the Fellowship about the needs for funds and how they are spent will show positive results. During 2011, contributions from groups and individuals (as distinguished from those received for the World Service Meeting literature efforts) of $6,191,061 were $178,939 (2.8%) less than budget and $87,842 (1%) less than 2010. Contributions % of Groups Contributing received from World Service Meeting countries toward the World Service Meeting 46 International Literature efforts amounted to $74,588, approximately $55,000 less than 45 2010. Total contributions as noted above were just over $6,265,600. 44 The chart produced to the right reflects the approximate percentage of the A.A. groups that 43 42 choose to list with the General Service Office that have participated in the Seventh Tradition 41 by contributing to the General Service Office. 40 Total Operating Revenue for 2012 is anticipated at $14,448,233, an increase of approxi2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 year mately $220,600 due to a slight increase in sales and improved contributions. Total Operating Expenses for 2012 have been budgeted at $14,300,340, approximately $891,843 or 6.6% greater than 2011 expenses and approximately one percent greater than the 2011 budget. It should be remembered that the year 2012 is a year for the World Service Meeting and the bulk of the cost (approximately $200,000) for this meeting is borne by GSO USA/Canada. The 2012 G.S.O. budget anticipates an excess of revenue over expense of $147,893 and is at a level that is of concern to trusted servants at G.S.O. because profits achieved by GSO are used to maintaining the Reserve Fund. This compares with an excess of revenue of $819,132 for 2011, $1,255, 289 for 2010, $1,273,500 for 2009, and a loss of $275,000 for 2008.

2012 Grapevine Budget

AA Grapevine Circulation 1998-2011 140,000

copies

The 2012 Grapevine Budget calls for an average circulation for the print magazine of 86,929. 120,000 This anticipates 2,095 fewer copies than the 2011 budget and approximately 3,564 copies 100,000 less that the 2011 average paid circulation of 90,493. The 2012 budget calls for approximately 80,000 4,300 GV online subscriptions. Circulation for the last 14 years is depicted in the chart. 60,000 40,000 Income: Magazine income of $2,303,568 is expected, $13,195 less than 2011. Other 20,000 Publishing Income from books, cassette tapes, and miscellaneous items is budgeted at 0 $602,500, $37,526 less than 2011. 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 Total Gross Profit: Combining the magazine and other publishing items, a gross profit of $1,851,987 is budgeted for 2012. This compares with $1,857,886 achieved for 2011 and the 2011 budget of $1,817,320. Total Operating Expenses: Total Operating Expenses for 2012 are budgeted at $1,843,703, $15,643 less than the 2011 expenses of $1,859,346 and $114,393 less that the 2011 budget. Net Income (loss): For 2012 the Grapevine anticipates a net profit of $34,284. This compares with a 2011 budgeted loss of $101,976 and an actual profit from operations of $22,840.

2012 La Viña Budget

Dollars

Following the 1995 General Service Conference Advisory Action #7, the publication of the Grapevine magazine in Spanish was approved by the Grapevine Board and the trustees’ Finance Committee of the General Service Board. Recognizing this publication as a new venture, both boards were to review the financial impact on the Fellowship and the progress of circulation and continue to monitor the viability of this venture. In 2001 The General Service Board recommended, and the 2001 Conference approved, that the La Viña magazine continue to be published by the Grapevine but Funded by the General Service Boards General Fund instead of continuing to draw funds from the Reserve Fund. La Viña Losses 1995-2011 For 2012 La Viña expects a gross profit on the magazine of $59,478 compared with $52,340 achieved in 2011. Circulation for 2012 is estimated at 8,982 even 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 $0 with the 2011 average and slightly greater than the 2011 budget. Other -$20,000 Publishing Income is estimated at $16,067, which after deducting cost of product -$40,000 of $3,174 expects to contribute $12,893 to revenue. Total costs and expenses are -$60,000 estimated at $178,040 for 2012, $37,589 more than 2011. The 2012 budget pro-$80,000 jects a net loss of $105,669, $35,946 higher than the 2011 loss of $69,723. You -$100,000 may recall 2010 Conference Actions that added costs to La Viña production. -$120,000 -$140,000 The Chart (at right) reflects the La Viña magazine losses since inception (1995). year To date losses of approximately $1,410,203 have been incurred.

BULLETIN BOARD Items and Ideas on Area Gatherings for A.A. s — Via G.S.O.

Calendar of Events

22-24—Senneterre, Québec, Congrès du dist. 90-11. Écrire:

Events listed here are presented solely as a service to readers, not as an endorsement by the General Service Office. For any additional information, please use the addresses provided.

congrèsdistrict9011@hotmail.com

June 1-2—Cap-de-la-Madeleine, Québec, Canada. 28 e Congrès de Cap-de-la-Madeleine. Écrire: Prés., 1001 Rang St-Malo, TroisRivières, QC G8V 1X4 1-3—Bozrah, Connecticut. Soberfest. Info: soberfest@ct.aa.org 1-3—Council Bluffs, Iowa. Area 24 Spring Conf. Write: Ch., Box 228, Atlantic, IA 50022; area24spring2012@yahoo.com 1-3—Santa Fe, New Mexico. Area 46 Conv. Write: Ch., Box 22962, Santa Fe, NM 87502; www.santafeaa.org 1-3—Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. Western Canada Reg. Forum. Write: Forum Coord., Box 459, Grand Central Station, New York, NY 10163; Regionalforums@aa.org 7-10—Indian Wells, California. Desert Pow Wow. Write: Ch., Box 10128, Palm Desert, CA 92255; www.desertpowwow.com 8-10—Tampa, Florida. Great Events Will Come To Pass. Write: Ch., Box 951903, Lake Mary, FL 32795; www.bigbookweekend.com 8-10—Springfield, Missouri. Heart of the Ozarks Roundup. Write: Ch., Box 1607, Springfield, MO 65801 8-10—Akron, Ohio. 77th Founder’s Day. Info: www.akronaa.org 15-16—Joliette, Québec, Canada. 36e Congrès de Joliette et de Lanaudière. Info: congres0326@aa90.org 15-16—Richmond, Québec, Canada. 30 e Congrès du Dist. 88-10. Écrire: Prés., 438 Rte 222, Maricourt, QC J0E 2L2; www.ipdistrict10.wordpress.com/congres/ 15-17—Mills, Wyoming. June Jamboree. Write: Ch., Box 2714, Mills, WY 82644 22-24—Tallahassee, Florida. Founder’s Day Florida Style. Write: Ch., Box 38034, Tallahassee, FL 32315-8034; www.foundersdayflorida.org 22-24—Pearl City, Illinois. 12 th Midwest Motorcycle Conv. Write: Ch., Box 8925, Rockford, IL 61126; www.mmaac.org 22-24—Columbus, Mississippi. MS State Conv. Write: Ch., 605 20th Ave. N., Columbus, MS 39701 22-24—Green Bay, Wisconsin. NE Tri-State Roundup. Write: Ch., Box 22334, Green Bay, WI 54301; www.tristateroundup.org

SUMMER 2012

Canada.

13-15—Grand Junction, Colorado. Area 10 Assembly. Write: Ch., Box 151, Grand Junction, CO 81527; www.coloradoaa.org

22-24—Sept-Iles, Québec, Canada. 33 e Congrès du Dist. 89-10. Écrire: Prés., 456 rue Arnaud, Sept-Iles, QC G4R 3B1

13-15—Saint Augustine, Florida. North FL Area Assembly. Write: Ch., 728 West Ave., Cocoa, FL 33927 13-15—Wheeling, West Virginia. 60th Area 73 State Conv. Write: Ch., Box 6457, Wheeling, WV 26003; amazedinwv@aol.com

29-1—Williams, Arizona. Kaibab Roundup. Write: Ch., Box 2296, Flagstaff, AZ 86003-2296 29-1—Grand Rapids, Michigan. 32 nd East Central Reg. Conf. & 60th MI State Conv. Write: Ch., 2743 Henry St., #133, Muskegon, MI 49441; www.wmaa34.org 29-1—McLeod, Montana. 20th Beartooth Mtn Conf. Write: Ch., Box 23406, Billings, MT 59104; www.beartoothmountainconference.com 29-1—Grand Forks, British Colombia, Canada. 38th Grand Forks Roundup. Write: Ch., Box 1664, Grand Fork, BC V0H 1H0; gfroundup@shaw.ca

July 6-7—Rivière-du-loup, Québec, Canada. Congrès Dist. 88-05. Écrire: Prés., CP 951, Rivière-du-loup, QC G5R 3Z5 6-8—Saint Catharine’s, Ontario, Canada. Eastern Canada Reg. Forum. Write: Forum Coord., Box 459, Grand Central Station, New York, NY 10163; Regionalforums@aa.org 12-15—Charlotte, North Carolina. 65th NC State Conv. Write: Ch., Box 71144, Durham, NC 27722-1144; convention@aanorthcarolina.org 12-15—Lubbock, Texas. 38 th Lubbock Caprock Conv. Write: Ch., Box 6511, Lubbock, TX 79493; www.nwta66.org 13-15—Tehachapi, California. Tehachapi Mtn Roundup. Write: Ch., Box 800, Tehachapi, CA 93581; www.tehachapiroundup.com

20-22—Carrabassett Valley, Maine. Maine Area Roundup. Write: Ch., Box 64, Brunswick, ME 04011-0064; www.roundup.area28aa.org 20-22—Beachwood, Ohio. 56 th OH State Conv. Write: Ch., Box 22660, Beachwood, OH 44122; altdelegate@area54.org 20-22—Truro, Nova Scotia, Canada. Dist. 6 Mid-Summer Roundup. Write: Ch., 5-8 Munroe Ct., Truro, NS B2N 6P4; www.area82aa.org 20-22—Windsor, Ontario, Canada. 37 th Windsor/Essex County Conv. Write: Ch., Box 231, 401 Ouellette Ave., Windsor, ON N9A 6K1; www.windsoraa.com 20-22—Rimouski, Québec, Canada. Congrès du Bas-St-Laurent Dist. 88-06. Écrire: Près. C.P. 651, Rimouski, QC G5L 7C7 26-29—Copper Mountain, Colorado. Fellowship of the Spirit. Write: Ch., Box 480642, Denver, CO 80248; www.fots.com 26-29—Olive Branch, Mississippi. SERCYPAA. Write: Ch., Box 384, Arlington, TN 38002; www.sercypaa2012ms.com 27-29—Hot Spring, Arkansas. 72 nd Old Grandad Conv. Write: Ch., Box 94513, North Little Rock, AR 72190; convention@arkansas.org 27-29—Eau Claire, Wisconsin. Chippewa Valley Roundup. Write: Ch., Box 1033, Eau Claire, WI 54702-1033; www.chippewavalleyroundup.com

Planning a Future Event? To be included in the Box 4-5-9 Calendar, information must be received at G.S.O. four months prior to the event. We list events of two or more days. For your convenience and ours — please type or print the information to be listed on the Bulletin Board page, and mail to Editor: Box 459, Grand Central Station, New York, NY 10163 or literature@aa.org Date of event: from ___________________________________ to _____________________________ , 20_______________ Name of event: ____________________________________________________________________________________________ Location: _________________________________________________________________________________________________ CITY

STATE OR PROVINCE

Planning Committee address: ____________________________________________________________________________ P.O. BOX (OR NUMBER AND STREET)

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________ CITY

STATE OR PROVINCE

ZIP CODE

Web site or E-mail: _______________________________________________________________________________________ (NO PERSONAL E-MAIL ADDRESSES)

Contact person: ___________________________________________________________________________________________

Box 4-5-9, Summer 2011

NAME

PHONE # AND OR E-MAIL

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28-29—Richland, Washington. 16 Avo. De La Viña. Inf.: lavina16anniversary@hotmail.com; area92chaircle@gmail.com

31-2—Fortuna, California. Redwood Coast Roundup. Write: Ch., Box 6943, Eureka, CA 95502; www.redwoodcoastroundup.org

1-5—Palm Harbor, Florida. 56th FL State Conv. Write: Ch., Box 10395, Largo, FL 33773; http://56.flstateconvention.com

31-2—Los Angeles, California. XL Conv. Hispana de Estados Unidos y Canada. Inf: Com. Org., Box 19248, LA, CA 90019; www.40convencionhispanadeusaycanada.com 31-2—Polson, Montana. 29 th Ray of Hope Camporee. Write: Ch., Box 1045, Polson, MT 59860

3-5—Newton, Massachusetts. MSCYPAA 16. Write: Ch., Box 1621, Framingham, MA 01702; www.mscypaahost.com

31-2—Jonquière, Québec, Canada. Congrès du Saguenay. Écrire: www.aa-quebec.org/region89/

August

3-5—Jefferson City, Missouri. MO State Conv. Write: Ch., Box 4871, Springfield, MO 65808; www.wamo-aa.org 9-12—New Orleans, Louisiana. 54th LA State Conv. And 68 th SE Conf. Write: Ch., Box 52135, New Orleans, LA 70152-2135; www.lastateconvention.org 10-12—Oakhurst, California. Summer Serenity in the Sierras. Write: Ch., Box 1116, Oakhurst, CA 93644; serenityinthesierras@yahoo.com 10-12—Key West, Florida. Sunset Roundup. Write: Ch., 404 Virginia St., Key West, FL 33040; www.sunsetroundup.com 10-12—Boise, Idaho. Gem State Roundup. Write: Ch., Box 191165, Boise, ID 83719; www.gemstateroundup.org 10-12—Mount Vernon, Illinois. East Central Add’l Reg. Forum. Write: Forum Coord., Box 459, Grand Central Station, New York, NY 10163; Regionalforums@aa.org 16-19—Omaha, Nebraska. Cornhusker Roundup. Write: Ch., Box 425, Bellevue, NE 68005; www.aa-cornhusker.org 17-18—St. Pete Beach, Florida. 14th Big Book on the Beach. Write: Ch., 357 41st Ave., St. Pete Beach, FL 33706; bigbookonthebeach@yahoo.com 17-19—Stella Niagara, New York. NY State Informational Workshop. Write: Ch., 103 Knowlton Ave., Kenmore, NY 14217; secretary@area50wny.org 17-19—York, Pennsylvania. Sunlight of the Spirit Conf. Write: Ch., Box 3538, York, PA 17402; www.sosyorkpa.org 17-19—Reston, Virginia. 62 nd VAC Conv. Write: Ch., 45751 Maries Rd., Sterling, VA 20166; vacconvention2012@hotmail.com 17-19—Smithers, British Columbia, Canada. Smithers Roundup. Write: Ch., Box 2366, Smithers, BC V0J 2N0; smithersroundup07@hotmail.com 24-26—Springfield, Illinois. IL State Conf. Write: Ch., Box 9186. Springfield, IL 627919186; www.aaspringfield.org 24-26—Alta, Wyoming. 11 th Teton Canyon Campout. Write: Ch., Box 153, Driggs, ID 83422

September 6-8—Cuidad de Cuiabá, Mato Grosso, Brazil. XVIII Conv. Nacional de Brazil. Info: aa@alcoolicosanonimos.org.br 7-9—Waterbury, Connecticut. 54 th Area 11 Conv. Write: Ch., 112 E. Main St., Meriden, CT 06450 7-9—Asbury Park, New Jersey. New Jersey Roundup. Write: Ch., 5 Atkins Ct., Clifton, NJ 07013; www.njroundup.org 13-16—Saint Louis, Missouri. 54 th ICYPAA. Write: Ch., Box 15028, St. Louis, MO 63110; www.icypaahost.org 14-15—Sainte-Ursule, Québec, Canada. 32éme Congrès du dist. 89-17. Écrire: Prés., 9 St-Laurent, Maskinongé, QC J0K 1N0 14-16—Fairbanks, Alaska. Pacific Reg. Forum. Write: Forum Coord., Box 459, Grand Central Station, New York, NY 10163; Regionalforums@aa.org 14-16—Houston, Texas. Area 67 Correctional Facilities Conf. Write: Ch., Box 925241, Houston, TX 77292-5241 14-16—New Braunfels, Texas. SWTX Area 68 Dist. 2 PI/CPC Conf. Write: Ch., Box 1694, Canyon Lake, TX 78133; www.area68district2.org 20-23—Amarillo, Texas. 66 th Top of Texas Roundup. Write: Ch., 6410 Persimmon Ln, Amarillo, TX 79124; www.topoftexasroundup.com 21-23—Somerset, New Jersey. Area 44 Conv. Write: Ch., Box 402, Kenvil, NJ 07847-0402 21-23—Beckley, West Virginia. Area 73 Fall Assembly. Write: Ch., 24 Spring St., Westover, WV 26501; www.aawv.org 21-23—Gatineau, Québec, Canada. 15 e Congrès du dist. 90-22. Écrire: Prés., 664 rue du Berger, Gatineau, QC J8P 3Y2 21-23—Rimini, Italy. 28th Conv. of Italy. Info: www.alcolisti-anonimi.it 28-30—Lafayette, Louisiana. 27 th Cajun Country Conf. Write: Ch., Box 3160, Lafayette, LA 70502; www.cajunaa.org

October 6-7—International Falls, Minnesota. Area 35 Fall Assembly. Info: areachair@area35.org 12-13—Roanoke, Virginia. Spring Into Action Workshop. Write: Ch., Box 8609, Roanoke, VA 24014; www.springintoactionroanoke.com 12-14—Saint Augustine, Florida. North FL Area Assembly. Write: Ch., 728 West Ave., Cocoa, FL 33927 12-14—Sun Valley, Idaho. Area 18 Fall Assembly & Conv. Write: Ch., Box 2041, Sun Valley, ID 83353 12-14—Angeles City, Philippines. 17 th Internat’l Fall Roundup. Info: www.alcoholics-anonymous-philippines.org 19-21—Goleta, California. 28th Santa Barbara Conv. Write: Ch., Box 91731, Santa Barbara, CA 93190-1731; www.sbaaconvention.org 19-21—Fort Wayne, Indiana. INCYPAA. Write: Ch., Box 5348, Ft. Wayne, IN 46895 19-21—Greensburg, Pennsylvania. 72nd Laurel Highlands Conf. Write: Ch., Box 6, Bovard, PA 15619 26-28—Branson, Missouri. Colors of Fall In The Ozarks. Write: Ch., 220 N. Spring St., Nevada, MO 64772; www.wmano-aa.org 26-28—Elizabeth, New Jersey. 24th NE Woman to Woman Conf. Write: Ch., Box 1060, East Orange, NJ 07017; www.newomantowoman.org 26-28—Sheridan, Wyoming. Area 76 Fall Conv. Write: Ch., Box 111, Sheridan, WY 82801

November 2-4—Wetaskiwin, Alberta, Canada. Wetaskiwin Roundup. Write: Ch., RR#1, Falun, AB T0C 1H0 3-4—Queens, New York. 32va Conv. Hispana de Area 49. Inf: Com. Org., 458 Columbia St., #4E, Bklyn, NY 11231 9-11—Boca Raton, Florida. SE Reg. Forum. Write: Forum Coord., Box 459, Grand Central Station, New York, NY 10163; Regionalforums@aa.org 23-25—Mount Pleasant, Michigan. MCYPAA. Write: Ch., Box 192, Mt. Pleasant, MI 48804; www.mcypaa.org 24-25—San Justo, Buenos Aires, Argentina. 8va Conv. Internacional y 60o Aniv. Inf.: 8convencionaa@gmail.com

24-26—Elspeet, Netherlands. 26th Netherlands Roundup. Info: www.aa-netherlands.org/drupal/roundup2012 31-2—Phoenix, Arizona. AA State Conv. Write: Ch., Box 10756, Glendale, AZ 85318; www.area03.org

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Box 4-5-9, Summer 2012