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AREA 64

ASSEMBLY
OF
ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS
SERVICE MANUAL

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The Twelve Steps
1. We admitted we were powerless over alcohol? that our lives had become
unmanageable.
2. Came to believe that a Power greater than ourselves could restore us to
sanity.
3. Made a decision to turn our will and our lives over to the care of God as we
understood Him.
4. Made a searching and fearless moral inventory of ourselves.
5. Admitted to God, to ourselves and to another human being the exact nature
of our wrongs.
6. Were entirely ready to have God remove all these defects of character.
7. Humbly asked Him to remove our shortcomings.
8. Made a list of all persons we had harmed, and became willing to make
amends to them all.
9. Made direct amends to such people wherever possible, except when to do so
would injure them or others.
10. Continued to take personal inventory and when we were wrong promptly
admitted it.
11. Sought through prayer and meditation to improve our conscious contact
with God, as we understood Him, praying only for knowledge of His will for
us and the power to carry that out.
12. Having had a spiritual awakening as the result of these steps, we
tried to carry this message to alcoholics, and to practice these
principles in all our affairs.
Reprinted by permission
AA World Services, Inc.
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I am responsible. . .
When anyone, anywhere
reaches out for help, I want
the hand of A.A. always to be there.
And for that: I am responsible.
A Declaration of Unity
This we owe to A.A.?s future:
To place our common welfare first;
To keep our Fellowship united.
For on A.A. unity depends our lives,
And the lives of those to come.
Reprinted by permission of
A.A. World Services, Inc.
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AA
Alcoholics Anonymous is a fellowship of men
and women who share their experience,
strength and hope with each other that they
may solve their common problem and
help others to recover from alcoholism.
The only requirement for membership is a
desire to stop drinking. There are no dues or
fees for AA membership; we are self-
supporting through our own contributions.
AA is not allied with any sect, denomination,
politics, organization or institution;
does not wish to engage in any controversy,
neither endorses nor opposes any causes.
Our primary purpose is to stay sober and
help other alcoholics to achieve sobriety.
Reprinted by permission of
The AA Grapevine Inc.
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Structure of the
Area 64 Assembly
of Alcoholics Anonymous
PREAMBLE
The Area 64 Assembly of Alcoholics Anonymous
shall always be a service body and shall protect and
respect the autonomy and the privilege of dissent of all
A.A. groups in General Service Conference Area 64. In
the course of its deliberations and discussions, the
Assembly shall be ever mindful of the ideals expressed in
the Twelve Traditions, the Twelve Concepts and the A.A.
Service Manual, and shall strive to be the true voice and
group conscience of Area 64 A.A. Unity and service shall
ever be the Assembly?s primary purpose, and it shall
encourage all Area 64 A.A. groups to participate in the
business of the Assembly and to support the Assembly in
its efforts to cooperate with the A.A. General Service
Office and A.A. World Services. The Assembly is
specifically charged with the duty of electing a delegate to
the General Service Conference and to give the delegate
financial support to assist him or her in the course of the
duties of the office. The Assembly is further charged with
electing an alternate delegate to the General Service
Conference, and to elect such Assembly officers it deems
necessary.
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Area 64 Service Manual
A.A. traditions say that our program should never be ?organized?, should always remain
nonprofessional. Also, that there is no ?authority? except that which expresses itself through the
group conscience. Our belief in these principles has worked wonders for our fellowship in guiding
its growth away from ?bigness and power?.
The same traditions (two, eight & nine) then go on to provide for the setting up of service centers,
with special workers and service boards and committees all responsible to those they serve.
The only authority then, is that which is first expressed in the group conscience and which is then
communicated by the groups to A.A. as a whole through GSR?s, DCM?s, and Delegates. Here is
where the idea of the conference structure begins.
The Area 64 Assembly is part of the conference plan. ?What is the conference plan?? It is a
method by which A.A.?s collective group conscience can speak forcefully and put its desires for
worldwide services into effect. It is the structure that takes the place of
government in A.A. It insures that the full voice of A.A. will be heard, whether it
represents the great majority or a minority. The conference plan was established as a guarantee
that our movement-wide services would continue to function under all
conditions. The plan provides a practical successor to the founders of A.A.
The conference plan, or the Third Legacy Plan, was originally set up in 1950 by Bill W. and Dr.
Bob. It was confirmed in 1955 in St. Louis on the occasion of the Second
International Convention. Bill W. took great pains to explain that the plan was purely
suggestive and traditional, not a body of rules of laws. It has served the fellowship well since
1955 and no doubt will continue to do so. (From the A.A. Service Manual.)
Assemblies
Any meeting of the Area GSR?s and the Area Committee (DCM?s and Area Officers) is an
Assembly. The Area Assembly is the mainspring of the conference structure. It is the democratic
voice of the movement expressing itself. Assemblies are the responsibility of the Area
Committee, and are conducted by its Chairperson (from the A.A. Service Manual).
The Following pages are the combined experiences and group consciences of the Area 64
Assembly, begun in 1967 and continuing to the present. (See the list page of this manual for
Correction and Amendment dates.)
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Contents
I.
ASSEMBLY-VOTING MEMBERS??????????.
II. ASSEMBLY MEETINGS (QUARTERLY)????????
III. ASSEMBLY OFFICERS AND THEIR RESPONSIBILITIES..
1V. ASSEMBLY- COMMITTEES?????????????
V. ASSEMBLY PROPERTY???????????????
VI.
ASSEMBLY? AREA COMMITTEE??????????.
VII. ASSEMBLY FUNDING????????????????..
VIII. ASSEMBLY- ELECTIONS???????????????
IX. DISTRICT COMMITTEE MEMBERSHIP????????
X. DISTRICT MEETINGS????????????????..
XI. DISTRICT STANDING COMMITTEES?????????.
XII.
DISTRICT ELECTIONS????????????????
XIII. AMENDMENTS???????????????????...
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STRUCTURE
I. ASSEMBLY-VOTING MEMBERS
A. The Delegate
B. The Alternate Delegate
C. The Chairperson
D. The Area Secretary or Alternate Secretary
E. The Area Treasurer or Alternate Treasurer
F. District Committee Members
G. General Service Representatives
H. All Area Standing Committee Chairpersons
I. All past Area 64 Delegates
J. Assembly/Convention Committee Chairperson
II. ASSEMBLY MEETINGS (QUARTERLY)
A. The Assembly traditionally meets in January, April, July and October of
each year.
B. The time and place of each meeting is generally selected by the
Assembly no later than its previous meeting. The 4th Quarter Assembly
Meeting (October), in each odd year, is held in the city of Nashville,
Tennessee.
C. A quorum is the number of voting members present.
D. It is necessary for voting members to sign the Roll Book and be present
at roll call to be eligible to vote at the business meeting.
E. The Area Assembly Business Meeting is a closed session and for A.A.
Members only. (The A.A. Service Manual, Chapter IV ("Organizing an
Assembly"). It is the group conscience of the Assembly that only voting
members of the Assembly may participate in discussions at the business
meeting. It is suggested that non-voting A.A. Members express their
opinions through their G.S.R. or D.C.M.
F. A typical Assembly Agenda includes: Roll Call, Secretary?s Report.
Treasurer's Report, Delegate's Report, Alternate Delegate's Report,
Standing Committee Reports, Other Committee (including Ad Hoc
Committees), Old Business, and New Business.
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G. It is suggested that the concept of substantial unanimity (12th Concept,
Warranty 4) be followed when any action of the Assembly calls for a vote.
A simple majority vote should apply only to casual votes.
H. Starting with the Third Quarterly Area Assembly, the Area 64 Business
Meeting will be a non-smoking meeting, with hourly breaks for the
smoking members.
III.
ASSEMBLY OFFICERS AND THEIR RESPONSIBILITIES (The A.A.
Service Manual, Chapter IV)
A. The Officers of the Assembly are:
1. The Chairperson
2. The Secretary (or Alternate)
3. The Treasurer (or Alternate)
B. Responsibilities of the Chairperson
1. The Chairperson?s responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
(a) The Business Meeting Agenda and chairing the meeting in
an orderly manner.
(b) Appointing special committees as needed.
C. Responsibilities of the Secretary
1. The Secretary's responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
(a) Recording and publishing the Minutes of all Assembly
meetings.
(b) Mailing of Assembly Minutes to the Assembly members.
(c) Traditionally, the Assembly Minutes are mailed not less than
thirty (30) days prior to the next Assembly.
(d) The Secretary is the custodian of all papers,
maps, tapes, and records of the Assembly (except
Financial records and records deposited in the Archives).
D. Responsibilities of the Treasurer
1. The Responsibilities of the Treasurer are, but are not limited to:
(a) Custody of all Assembly monies.
(b) Presents an annual budget subject to the approval of the
Assembly.
(c) Presents a quarterly report to each Assembly including the
prudent reserve.
* The Treasurer position is bonded. (By Group Conscience taken at the
First Quarterly Assembly, 1989.)
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E. Responsibilities of the Alternates
The Alternate Secretary and Alternate Treasurer will assume
responsibilities and voting privileges only in the absence of the
Secretary or Treasurer. In the absence of the Chairperson, the
Delegate assumes the Chairperson's responsibilities.
IV.
ASSEMBLY - COMMITTEES
A. Standing Committees of the Assembly:
1. Correctional Facilities Committee
2. Treatment Facilities Committee
3. Public Information Committee
4. Grapevine Committee
5. Cooperation with the Professional Community Committee
6. Archives Committee
B. Each Assembly Standing Committee is composed of the chairpersons
of each District Standing Committee and AA member's who are willing
to participate. The Chairperson is elected by Group Conscience in
January of each even year.
C. Responsibilities of each Standing Committee Chairperson include, but
are not limited to: chairing meetings, holding elections, and reporting
to each Quarterly Assembly.
D. Other Assembly Committees
1. The Budget & Finance Committee is composed of six (6)
members and the Treasurer who serves as the Chairperson.
Voting members of the Assembly and past Assembly Treasurer
are eligible to serve. (Concept IV) All members are appointed by
the Assembly Chairperson keeping in mind the spirit of rotation, to
serve for one (1) year. The responsibilities of this committee
include, but are not limited to the following:
(a) Prepares an annual budget to be presented to the Assembly
by the Treasurer at the 4th Quarterly Assembly for the coming
year.
(b) Reviews all capital expenditures and long term obligations and
provides a financial feasibility report to the Assembly.
2. The Assembly/Convention Committee is composed of six (6)
members. Four members are voting members of the Assembly.
The additional two members may be past voting members of the
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Assembly who have Assembly or Convention experience (Concept
IV). All committee members are appointed by the Assembly
Chairperson. The Assembly/Convention Committee will elect one
of their members as Chairperson (PROVIDING THAT PERSON
HAS ASSEMBLY VOTING PRIVILEGES) who will remain a voting
member of the Assembly for the duration of his/her two (2) year
term as Chairperson. The responsibilities of the committee
chairperson include, but are not limited to: chairing committee
meetings, making the committee report to the Assembly, compiling
and maintaining statistical records of all Area 64 Assemblies or
Conventions for future committee references. Three members will
rotate off the committee in even years and three will rotate off in
odd years. Each member will serve two years.
The bid city committee provides a proposed contract, in writing, from
the facilities; a written proposed budget; and signed approval from their
District Committee. After the Assembly/Convention Committee reports
its approval of a host city, the final approval is made by majority vote of
the State Assembly. The Assembly will advance One Thousand Two
Hundred Fifty Dollars ($1,250.00) to the Host City Convention
Committee, or five hundred dollars ($500.00) to the Host City
Assembly Committee which makes a complete accounting of all
moneys received, from all sources, to the Assembly/Convention
Committee. The Assembly/Convention Committee conducts an audit
of the Host City Assembly or Convention Committee's finances and
reports the same to the Quarterly Area Assembly meeting subsequent
to the Area Convention. All residual moneys are returned to the
Assembly Treasurer along with the Host committee's recommendation
for disbursement.
3. The LIAISON Committee is composed of four voting members of the
Assembly who are appointed by the Assembly Chairperson to serve for
a term of two years. The Alternate Delegate and the Secretary co-
chair this committee. Their responsibilities include, but are not limited
to:
(a) Securing and/or maintaining a centrally local facility for the
purpose of housing the Archives and other Assembly property.
(b) Serving as liaison between the Assembly and the facility and
providing support and supervision for any special workers that
may be employed (8th Tradition).
(c) Maintaining a current map of Area 64 showing all A.A. Districts
and their geographical boundaries. This map is to be included in
all publications of this Service manual.
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V.
ASSEMBLY PROPERTY
A. Assembly property, including but not limited to: typewriters,
computers, printers, miscellaneous office equipment, the Archives and
its containers, may be assigned to the appropriate Assembly officers
or Committee Chairpersons, for
use during their term of office. At
the end of their respective terms of office, all Assembly property in their
possession is to be turned over to their successors.
B. The location of such property is determined by the needs of the
Assembly Officer or Committee Chairperson who assumes possession
and responsibility for same. The Assembly provides a centrally located
facility to house the Archives, their containers and any other property
deemed advisable by the Liaison Committee. (Concept III)
C. No Assembly property may be disposed of without the simple
majority of the Assembly; all proceeds from the sale of Assembly
property are to be returned to the Area Treasurer for deposit to the
General Fund.
D. It is suggested that any trusted servant receiving possession of
Assembly property, have a minimum of two years sobriety.
VI.
ASSEMBLY - AREA COMMITTEE (The A.A. Service Manual-Chapter IV)
A. The Area Committee is composed of:
1. The Delegate
2. The Alternate Delegate
3. The Area Chairperson
4. The Area Secretary or Alternate
5. The Area Treasurer or Alternate
6. The District Committee Member from each District
7. The Area Standing Committee Chairpersons
8. The Assembly/Convention Committee Chairperson
B. The Area Committee convenes at the request of the Delegate, the
Assembly Chairperson, or any three members of the Area
Committee.
C. The Area Chairperson selects a place and time for all meetings and
notifies each member ten (10) days prior to the meeting date.
D. The Area Chairperson conducts all business meetings. In the
Chairperson's absence, the Delegate assumes these
responsibilities.
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VII.
ASSEMBLY - FUNDING
A. Necessary funds must be available in order for the Assembly to
fulfill its responsibilities to pay the necessary expenses of the
Delegate as prescribed in The AA Service Manual (Chapter IV,
"How the Committee Is Supported"); to provide for mailing and
publishing expenses; and to provide other expenditures approved
by the Assembly.
B. Each Area group is asked to adopt a specific contribution plan,
suitable to their particular situation, as suggested in the Conference
approved pamphlet "Supporting the AA Support System". These
contributions are not dues or levies but are voluntary contributions.
VIII.
ASSEMBLY - ELECTIONS
A. At the 4th Quarter (October) meeting of each odd year, the
Assembly conducts elections for the Delegate, Alternate Delegate,
Area Chairperson, Area Secretary and Area Treasurer. Also
elected are an Alternate Secretary and an Alternate Treasurer.
These two alternates serve only in the absence or inability of the
Area Secretary or the Area Treasurer to serve. It is suggested that
the alternates assist the Secretary and the Treasurer with their
responsibilities. The term of service is for two (2) years beginning
January 1 of the next even year.
VIII. ASSEMBLY - ELECTIONS (CONT.)
B. The Chairperson cannot appoint nominating committees. All
nominations for Area Secretary and Area Treasurer and their
Alternates come from the floor.
C. Election of the Delegate, Alternate Delegate and Area Chairperson
is outlined in The A.A. Service Manual -Third Legacy Procedure
(Chapter I, "What is Third Legacy Procedure?").
D. All members present at the Assembly have voting privileges
(Section I. &Section II, D.) Absentee voting or proxies are not valid.
E. ELECTION OF THE DELEGATE
1. The Chairperson will read that portion of The A.A. Service Manual
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(Chapters 1 & IV) which is applicable to balloting for Delegate to
the General Service Conference and review the qualifications that make a
good Delegate (Chapter V).
2. All duly elected District Committee Members the outgoing
Secretary and Treasurer (provided they have past D.C.M.
experience), the outgoing Alternate Delegate, and outgoing Area
Chairperson (providing such Chairperson has never served as Area
64 Delegate) are candidates. Nominations from the floor will not be
recognized.
3. The Delegate serves one (1) two (2) year term and can never again
be a candidate for
this office.
F. Election of the Alternate Delegate to the General Service
Conference will also be in accordance with The A.A. Service
Manual- Third Legacy Procedure (Chapters I & IV).
1. All duly elected District Committee Members, the outgoing
Secretary and Treasurer
(provided they have past D.C.M. experience), and outgoing Area
Chairperson (providing such Chairperson has never served as
Area 64 Delegate) are candidates. Nominations from the floor
will not be recognized.
2. Should the Delegate not be able to complete the term of service,
the Alternate Delegate assumes the Delegate's responsibilities.
3.
The outgoing Alternate Delegate is not eligible for consecutive
re-election to the office of Alternate Delegate.
G. Election of Chairperson of the Assembly is also in accordance with
The A.A. Service Manual - Third Legacy Procedure
(Chapters I & IV). It is suggested that the candidate have at least
six (6) years sobriety.
1. All duly elected District Committee Members, the outgoing Delegate
(providing such Delegate has never served as Area
Chairperson), the outgoing Alternate Delegate, the Area Secretary and
the Area Treasurer, (providing such Secretary and Treasurer have
past D.C.M. experience) are candidates. Nominations from the floor
will not be recognized.
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2. The Chairperson serves one (1) two (2) year term and can never
again be a candidate for this office.
H. Election of the Secretary and Alternate Secretary will be by majority vote, and all
members of the Assembly with two or more year?s sobriety are eligible for
candidacy. The Alternate, in the event he or she is a non-voting member of the
Assembly, is eligible for the position of Secretary. For the purpose of Assembly Officer
elections only, the Alternate Secretary will have a vote. Nominations come from the
floor. The first candidate to receive one half the total number of votes, plus one or more
votes is elected. After the first ballot (assuming no candidate receives the necessary
majority on the first ballot) all candidates except the top two candidates will be
withdrawn automatically. (In case there are ties for second place, the top candidate and
tied second place candidates remain). After the second ballot, if no candidate has a
majority of the total vote and no election occurs by this time, the chairperson announces
the choice will be made by lot (from the hat). Lots are then drawn by teller, and the first
one "out of the hat" becomes the Secretary. This procedure is repeated to elect the
Alternate Secretary.
I. Election of the Treasurer and Alternate Treasurer are also by majority vote,
and all members of the Assembly with two or more years of sobriety are eligible
for candidacy. The Alternate Treasurer, in the event he or she is a non-voting
member of the Assembly, is eligible for the position of Treasurer. For the
purpose of Assembly Officer elections only, the Alternate Treasurer will have a
vote. Nominations come from the floor. The first candidate to receive one half
the total number of votes, plus one or more votes is elected. After the first ballot
(assuming no candidate receives the necessary majority on the first ballot) all
candidates except the top two candidates will be withdrawn automatically. (In
case there are ties for second place, the top candidate and tied second-place
candidates remain).
After the second ballot, if no candidate has a majority
of the total vote and no election occurs by this time, the chairperson announces
the choice will be made by lot (from the hat). Lots are then drawn by teller, and
the first name drawn is elected.
J. The Assembly may remove the Delegate, Alternate Delegate, or any
Assembly Officer from the duties of the office for just cause including, but not
limited to, the breaking of the sobriety date. The removal is by secret ballot and
requires a two-thirds (2/3) majority.
1. A meeting of the Area Committee will be called to act upon any removal of
the Delegate, Alternate Delegate, or Assembly Officer. The Area
Committee will report to the next Quarterly Assembly with its recommendation,
including any minority report. The Assembly Chairperson will request the
Assembly to act in: accordance with Section VIII of this Service Manual.
2. The Assembly conducts elections for the un-expired term of any office
vacated in accordance with this Service Manual.
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IX. DISTRICT COMMITTEE MEMBERSHIP
A. Each District and/or new Districts as shown in the Secretary's
records will have one District Committee Member. It is suggested
that the maximum number of groups a District Committee Member
serves is fifteen (15). When the District exceeds fifteen
(15) Groups, the District should be divided into new Districts. The
groups in the District determine the geographic boundaries of the
new Districts. The designation of new District numbers is
determined by the Assembly Chairperson and the DCM's involved.
B. The elected General Service Representative (GSR) from each group
in the District and the District Committee Member (DCM) are
members of the District Committee.
X. DISTRICT MEETINGS
A. Each District traditionally meets a minimum of four (4)
times each year.
1. In December
2. In March
3. In June
4.
In September
B. Each District meets at a time and place of its own selection.
C. It is the responsibility of the District Committee Member to notify all
Committee Members of the time and place of all District meetings
and to chair all District meetings where feasible.
XI. DISTRICT STANDING COMMITTEES
A. The District has six (6) standing committees:
1. Correctional Facilities Committee
2. Treatment Facilities Committee
3. Public Information Committee
4. Grapevine Committee
5. Cooperation with the Professional Community Committee
6. Archives Committee
B. The District elects committee members from its membership and
from among interested and qualified AA's in the District.
C. Each Standing Committee elects one of its members as
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Chairperson, and that Chairperson serves on the like Assembly
Standing Committee.
XII. DISTRICT ELECTIONS
A. Each group in the District elects a GSR on or before September 1 of
each odd year. The term of service is two (2) years beginning the
next even year, January 1.
B. The elected GSR's of the District at the Districts September meeting
in each odd year elect one of their members as the DCM. It is
suggested that the procedures outlined in The AA Service Manual-
Chapter III be followed. The term of service is two (2) years
beginning the next even year, January 1.
C The DCM notifies, in writing, the Assembly Chairperson and
Assembly Secretary of the name and address of the new DCM as
well as the name, address and groups represented by all new
GSR's and any new group formed in the District and/or any inactive
groups.
D. Each Group and/or District, at its discretion, can replace an elected
GSR or DCM with an announced election, in compliance with The
A.A. Service Manual (Chapter III), and in the spirit of the Fourth
Tradition.
XIII. AMENDMENTS
A. All proposed amendments to this Service Manual are submitted in
writing to the Area Chairperson with a copy to the Delegate not less
than forty-five (45) days prior to the next Quarterly Assembly. A
proposed amendment is submitted by a GSR only. Said amendment
will have the submitting group's approval and be signed by the GSR
and other group officers.
B. The Chairperson includes the proposed amendment, as submitted,
on the Agenda for the next Quarterly Assembly meeting. A copy of
each amendment will be included with the minutes of the previous
Assembly. Copies will also be available at the registration table at the
next Quarterly Assembly.
C. It is suggested that the proposed amendment be included on the
agenda of the GSR/DCM meeting for discussion prior to the regular
business meeting. (Concept XII, Warranty Four)
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D. A two-thirds (2/3)-majority approval of the quorum constitutes the
adoption of the amendment. (Concept II and Concept III)
E. A simple majority approval vote suggests that the proposed
amendment be referred to an ad hoc committee for further study. It is
further suggested that the ad hoc committee make its report at the
DCM/GSR sharing session at the next Quarterly Assembly for
discussion, prior to the Assembly business meeting. A final vote is
taken at the business meeting.
XIII. AMENDMENTS (CONT.)
Adopted 1967
Corrected
1989
Amended 1969
Amended
1993
Amended 1974
Amended
1995
Amended 1978
Amended
1997
Corrected 1978
Amended 1999
Amended 1979
Amended
2001
Amended 1980
Amended 1981
Amended 1982
Corrected 1983
Service Manual adopted October 20, 1985
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The Twelve Concepts
(Short Form)
1. Final responsibility and ultimate authority for A.A. world services should
always reside in the collective conscience of our whole Fellowship.
2. The General Service Conference of A.A. has become, for nearly every
practical purpose, the active voice and the effective conscience of our whole
Society in its world affairs.
3. To insure effective leadership, we should endow each element of A.A.?the
Conference, the General Service Board and its service corporations, staffs,
committees, and executives- with a traditional ?Right of Decision.?
4. At all responsible levels, we ought to maintain a traditional ?Right of
Participation,? allowing a voting representation in reasonable proportion to
the responsibility that each must discharge.
5. Throughout our structure, a traditional ?Right of Appeal? ought to prevail,
so that minority opinion will be heard and personal grievances receive
careful consideration.
6. The Conference recognizes that the chief initiative and active responsibility
in most world service matters should be exercised by the trustee members of
the Conference acting as the General Service Board.
7. The Charter of Bylaws of the General Service Board are legal instruments,
empowering the trustees to manage and conduct world service affairs. The
Conference Charter is not a legal document; it relies upon tradition and the
A.A. purse for final effectiveness.
8. The trustees are the principal planners and administrators of overall policy
and finance. They have custodial oversight of the separately incorporated
and constantly active services, exercising this through their ability to elect all
the directors of these entities.
9. Good service leadership at all levels is indispensable for our future
functioning and safety. Primary world service leadership, once exercised by
the founders, must necessarily be assumed by the trustees.
10. Every service responsibility should be matched by an equal service authority,
with the scope of such authority well defined.
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The Twelve Concepts (Short Form) (continued)
11. The trustees should always have the best possible committees, corporate
service directors, executives, staffs, and consultants. Composition,
qualifications, induction procedures, and rights and duties will always be
matters of serious concern.
12. The Conference shall observe the spirit of A.A. tradition, taking care that it
never becomes the seat of perilous wealth or power; that sufficient operating
funds and reserve be its prudent financial principle; that it place none of its
members in a position of unqualified authority over others; that it reach all
important decisions by discussion vote, and whenever possible by substantial
unanimity; that its actions never be personally punitive nor an incitement to
public controversy; that it never performs acts of government, and that, like
the Society it serves, it will always remain democratic in thought and action.
Reprinted by permission of AAWS, Inc.
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The Twelve Traditions
1. Our common welfare should come first; personal recovery depends upon
A.A. unity.
2. For our group purpose there is but one ultimate authority?a loving God as
He may express Himself in our group conscience. Our leaders are but
trusted servants; they do not govern.
3. The only requirement for A.A. membership is a desire to stop drinking.
4. Each group should be autonomous except in matters affecting other groups
or A.A. as a whole.
5. Each group has but one primary purpose?to carry its message to the
alcoholic who still suffers.
6. An A.A. group ought never endorse, finance, or lend the A.A. name to any
related facility or outside enterprise, lest problems of money, property, and
prestige divert us from our primary purpose.
7. Every A.A. group ought to be fully self-supporting, declining outside
contributions.
8. Alcoholics Anonymous should remain forever nonprofessional, but our
service centers may employ special workers.
9. A.A., as such, ought never be organized; but we may create service boards or
committees directly responsible to those they serve.
10. Alcoholics Anonymous has no opinion on outside issues; hence the A.A. name
ought never be drawn into public controversy.
11. Our public relations policy is based on attraction rather than promotion; we
need always maintain personal anonymity at the level of press, radio, and
films.
12. Anonymity is the spiritual foundation of all our Traditions, ever reminding
us to place principles before personalities.
Reprinted by permission of
A.A. World Services, Inc.
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INFORMATION ONLY, NOT PART OF AREA 64 STRUCTURE
Area 64 Assembly Guidelines
General Rules of Debate
Adopted: First Quarter Assembly January 1991
The general rules of debate in the Assembly are roughly what are called ?informal rules? by
Robert: people who wish to speak to a topic line up at the microphones and are called on in
order, each may speak for two minutes; no speaker can speak for a second time to a topic, until
all who wish to have spoken for the first time.
Specific Robert?s rules that come up often:
(1) Any motion which has the effect
issue. The possibility of limiting
of limiting debate on a topic requires
debate preserves the right of the
a two- thirds vote. This applies
majority, in that, otherwise, a small
particularly when someone ?calls for
minority could frustrate the Assembly
the previous question.? This motion
by prolonging debate indefinitely.
can only be made in order, requires
a second, is not debatable, and
A motion which has the effect of
requires a two-thirds vote. If passed,
postponing, to a later time in the
debate on the issue before the
same session, discussion and vote
Assembly ceases, and the Assembly
on a question requires only a
proceeds immediately to vote on it.
majority (to Table).
It must be emphasized that when an
Assembly member ?calls the
question? this does not end debate
on the question before the house. It
postpones it while the Assembly
determines whether two-thirds of its
(2) From time to time a request to
members wish to end it. in other
reconsider an Assembly Action is
words, it simply ask whether the
made. According to Robert, such a
sense of the meeting is that debate
request can be made in the form of a
on the question be ended. Unless
motion, but only by someone who
two-thirds of the members wish to
had voted with the winning side on
end the debate, it will continue.
the action and now wishes to change
their vote. According to Robert, a
simple majority is enough to cause
It might seem that limitation of
reconsideration, but no action can be
debate is contrary to the spirit of the
reconsidered twice. This request may
Fellowship, but the rights of the
be made on the day of the original
minority are preserved, in that it
action or on the next Assembly day.
Page 23
required two-thirds of the voters to
limit debate, and expression of the
minority point of view will always be
possible after the vote on the main
Page 24
INFORMATION ONLY, NOT PART OF STATE STRUCTURE
AREA 64 ASSEMBLY
GUIDELINES FOR ASSEMBLY EXPENSES AND CONTRIBUTIONS
The Area 64 Assembly Guidelines below are compiled from the experience of Area 64 members.
They also reflect guidance given through the Twelve Traditions and the General Service
Conference (U.S. and Canada). It is the responsibility of the Area 64 Assembly to support its
elected service representatives and workers. While it is certainly up to the group conscience,
many A.A. members seem to agree that no one should be excluded from service because of
finances. Some service workers? expenses come out of their own pocket, while others are
reimbursed.
ASSEMBLY EXPENSES
Delegate
Standing Committee
Expenses
The Area Delegate will be given, upon arrival at each quarterly
The six Standing
Committees are budgeted an amount so noted
assembly, an amount as noted in the budget. The extra amount
in the budget per
committee per year. This is a total Standing
is to help defray the additional costs of serving as Delegate.
Committee budgeted
amount per year. Expenses will be paid
The Delegate shall be advanced an amount as noted in the bud-
upon presentation of
receipts by the committee chairpersons
get, to attend the Southeastern Conference, the annual
to the Area 64
Treasurer. All expenses above the budgeted
Southeast Delegate Meeting, the Southeast Regional Forum
amount per committee
per year must be submitted to the Budget
(meets every two years), and the Area 64 Convention.
& Finance Committee
for approval. Receipts must be submitted
These expenses are not to exceed the amount as noted in the
to the Area Treasurer
on a quarterly basis.
approved budget. Any expenses above the budgeted amounts
as shown in the approved budget must be submitted, along with
Area Assembly
Expenses
receipts, to the Budget & Finance Committee for approval.
There will be a
budgeted amount for the following Area
Assembly expenses: Delegate?s
trip to the General Service
Alternate Delegate
Conference, Area Office Rent,
Area 64 Convention Advance,
The Alternate Delegate will be recompensed expenses to attend
Printing & Postage,
Corporate Charter, Memorials and
the annual Southeast Delegate Meeting. This is a budgeted amount.
Budget & Finance
Committee expenses. These expenses will
Expenses in excess of the budgeted amount should be referred to
be paid by the Area
Treasurer. Any Area 64 Assembly
the Area Assembly Budget & Finance Committee for approval.
expenses, other than
budgeted, will be submitted to the
Budget & Finance Committee
for review and recommendation
Assembly Officers
to the Assembly for final
approval or disapproval.
The Alternate Delegate, Area Treasurer, and Area Secretary
will be given upon arrival at each quarterly assembly an
Page 25
amount as noted in the budget to help defray the cost of attending
Return of Residual
Monies
and serving as trusted servants. All expenses above that bud-
The Area 64 Service
Manual specifies that all Area 64
geted amount per quarter must be submitted to the Budget &
Convention residual
monies be returned to the Area Treasury
Finance Committee for approval. Receipts reflecting additional
by the host committee
with recommendations for disburse-
expenses must be submitted to the Area Treasurer on a
ment. It is hereby suggested
that all residual monies from our
quarterly basis. The Area Chairperson will be given, upon arrival quarterly assemblies be turned
over to the Area Treasurer
at each quarterly assembly, an amount as noted in the budget. The
with recommendations
for disbursement. This is due to the
extra amount is to help defray the additional costs of serving
fact that the assembly
has in the past paid any expense
as Area Chairperson. All expenses above the budgeted amount
shortage experienced
by an assembly host committee.
per quarter must be submitted to the Budget & Finance
Committee for approval. Receipts reflecting additional expenses
must be submitted to the Area Treasurer on a quarterly basis.
The Alternate Delegate, Area Chairperson, Area Treasurer, and ASSEMBLY
CONTRIBUTIONS
Area Secretary will be recompensed expenses to attend the
Assembly
contributions will be accepted from Groups,
Southeast Regional Forum which meets every two years. This
Districts, Area
Assemblies, Area 64 Conventions, Tennessee
expense is noted in the budget.
Conference of Young People of
A.A. and A.A. members.
Area Standing Committee Chairperson
The Chairpersons of the six Standing Committees will be given,
upon arrival at each quarterly assembly, an amount noted in
the budget to help defray the cost of attending and serving as
trusted servants. In the absence of the chairpersons, the
alternate chairpersons will be reimbursed. The outgoing chair-
persons will be paid at the first quarterly assembly of the even
year (year of the election of new chairperson).
Page 26
INFORMATION ONLY, NOT PART OF STATE STRUCTURE
AREA 64 ASSEMBLY
GUIDELINES FOR ASSEMBLY EXPENSES AND CONTRIBUTIONS
The Area 64 Assembly Guidelines below are compiled from the experience of Area 64 members. They also reflect guidance given through the
Twelve Traditions and the General Service Conference (U.S. and Canada). It is the responsibility of the Area 64 Assembly to support its
elected service representatives and workers. While it is certainly up to the group conscience, many A.A. members seem to agree that no one
should be excluded from service because of finances. Some service workers? expenses come out of their own pocket, while others are
reimbursed.
ASSEMBLY EXPENSES
Delegate
Standing Committee Expenses
The Area Delegate will be given, upon arrival at each quarterly
The six Standing Committees are budgeted an amount so
noted
assembly, an amount as noted in the budget. The extra amount
in the budget per committee per year. This is a total Standing
is to help defray the additional costs of serving as Delegate.
Committee budgeted amount per year. Expenses will be paid
The Delegate shall be advanced an amount as noted in the bud-
upon presentation of receipts by the committee chairpersons
get, to attend the Southeastern Conference, the annual
to the Area 64 Treasurer. All expenses above the budgeted
Southeast Delegate Meeting, the Southeast Regional Forum
amount per committee per year must be submitted to the Budget
(meets every two years), and the Area 64 Convention.
& Finance Committee for approval. Receipts must be submitted
These expenses are not to exceed the amount as noted in the
to the Area Treasurer on a quarterly basis.
approved budget. Any expenses above the budgeted amounts
as shown in the approved budget must be submitted, along with
Area Assembly Expenses
receipts, to the Budget & Finance Committee for approval.
There will be a budgeted amount for the following Area
Assembly expenses: Delegate?s trip to the General Service
Alternate Delegate
Conference, Area Office Rent, Area 64 Convention
Advance,
The Alternate Delegate will be recompensed expenses to attend
Printing & Postage, Corporate Charter, Memorials and
the annual Southeast Delegate Meeting. This is a budgeted amount.
Budget & Finance Committee expenses. These expenses will
Expenses in excess of the budgeted amount should be referred to
be paid by the Area Treasurer. Any Area 64 Assembly
the Area Assembly Budget & Finance Committee for approval.
expenses, other than budgeted, will be submitted to the
Budget & Finance Committee for review and recommendation
Assembly Officers
to the Assembly for final approval or disapproval.
The Alternate Delegate, Area Treasurer, and Area Secretary
will be given upon arrival at each quarterly assembly an
amount as noted in the budget to help defray the cost of attending
Return of Residual Monies
and serving as trusted servants. All expenses above that bud-
The Area 64 Service Manual specifies that all Area 64
geted amount per quarter must be submitted to the Budget &
Convention residual monies be returned to the Area Treasury
Finance Committee for approval. Receipts reflecting additional
by the host committee with recommendations for disburse-
expenses must be submitted to the Area Treasurer on a
ment. It is hereby suggested that all residual monies from our
quarterly basis. The Area Chairperson will be given, upon arrival
quarterly assemblies be turned over to the Area Treasurer
at each quarterly assembly, an amount as noted in the budget. The
with recommendations for disbursement. This is due to the
extra amount is to help defray the additional costs of serving
fact that the assembly has in the past paid any expense
as Area Chairperson. All expenses above the budgeted amount
shortage experienced by an assembly host committee.
per quarter must be submitted to the Budget & Finance
Committee for approval. Receipts reflecting additional expenses
must be submitted to the Area Treasurer on a quarterly basis.
The Alternate Delegate, Area Chairperson, Area Treasurer, and
ASSEMBLY CONTRIBUTIONS
Area Secretary will be recompensed expenses to attend the
Assembly contributions will be accepted from Groups,
Southeast Regional Forum which meets every two years. This
Districts, Area Assemblies, Area 64 Conventions, Tennessee
expense is noted in the budget.
Conference of Young People of A.A. and A.A. members.
Area Standing Committee Chairperson
The Chairpersons of the six Standing Committees will be given,
upon arrival at each quarterly assembly, an amount noted in
the budget to help defray the cost of attending and serving as
trusted servants. In the absence of the chairpersons, the
alternate chairpersons will be reimbursed. The outgoing chair-
persons will be paid at the first quarterly assembly of the even
year (year of the election of new chairperson).
Page 27
INFORMATION ONLY, NOT PART OF AREA 64 STRUCTURE
AREA 64 ASSEMBLY SUGGESTED GUIDELINES
TREASURERS RESPONSIBILIES
The Area 64 Assembly Guidelines below are compiled from the experience of Area 64
A.A. members. They also reflect guidance given through the Twelve Traditions, Twelve
Concepts, and the General Service Conference (US and Canada).
It is the responsibility of the Area 64 Assembly Treasurer to perform the responsibilities
listed in the Area 64 Service Manual, Section III, Item D. The experience of the Budget
& Finance Committee suggests the following procedures be used to carry out those
responsibilities.
All accounts (checking and savings) must be set up with both the Treasurer?s and
Alternate Treasurer?s signatures.
All checks must be signed by both Treasurer and Alternate Treasurer (requirement of the
bond).
All funds received by Treasurer are to be deposited at least twice monthly.
Keep sufficient records of funds received from Groups in order to trace contributions
credited to the wrong Group Contribution Report.
Bank statement to be balanced by the Alternate Treasurer on a quarterly basis
(requirement of the bond).
Keep a double entry ledger, either manually or by computer, balancing to the checkbook.
Report will then be prepared from the ledger.
INFORMATION ONLY, NOT
PART OF AREA 64 STRUCTURE
Page 28
AREA 64 ASSEMBLY SUGGESTED GUIDELINES
SECRETARY RESPONSIBILIES
The Area 64 Assembly Guidelines are compiled from the experience of Area 64 A.A.
members. They also reflect guidance given through the Twelve Traditions, Twelve
Concepts, and the General Service Conference,
It is the responsibility of the Area 64 Assembly Secretary to perform the responsibilities
listed in the Area 64 Service Manual, Section III, Item C. In addition to those
responsibilities, it is suggested that the Secretary perform the following task which can be
performed with the help of the Alternate Secretary.
1. Maintain a database on the computer purchased for this office of all Past
Delegates, State Officers, Standing Committee Chair people, and District
Committee Members. This will include groups that are active in the Area and
will include their General Service Representatives. This information should
include as much information as possible or obtainable, i.e. addresses, phone
numbers, meeting places, meeting times, and alternates.
2. As changes are recorded on the Area database, these changes will be forwarded to
the General Service Office as soon as possible.
3. Compile and publish an Area Directory in the groups in Area 64. This will be
done every year and if at all possible available at the 2
nd
Quarter Assembly of that
even year.
4. Assemble the Roll Call Book with the most current information and have at the
registration desk for each Assembly as soon as possible on the Friday before the
business meeting.
5. Call the Roll at each Assembly.
6. Obtain and maintain a bulk mailing permit during term of service.
7. Be responsible for filing annual report for incorporation.
8. Furnish Treasurer with updated group information on a quarterly basis.
Page 29
INFORMATION ONLY, NOT PART OF THE STATE STRUCTURE
AREA 64 ASSEMBLY SUGGESTED GUIDELINES
STANDING COMMITTEES
The Area 64 Assembly Guidelines are compiled from the experience of Area 64 Assembly
members. They also reflect guidance given through the Twelve Traditions, Twelve
Concepts and the General Service Conference.
Purpose
The purpose of these guidelines is to describe policies and procedures which apply to the Area
64 Assembly of Alcoholics Anonymous. These guidelines are not intended to replace the
information in the A.A. Service Manual, but are to be used in conjunction with and as a
supplement to the Service Manual and other A.A. service related material.
Archives
The Area 64 Archives Chairperson coordinates the efforts of the Area 64 Archives Committee
which is comprised of District and Group Archivists and any other interested A.A. members. The
primary purpose of the Archives Committee is to collect and preserve A.A. related materials of
interest to the Area. The Chairperson of the Area 64 Archives Committee:
A. Maintains a safe and secure repository for all archival material, protecting the anonymity
of A.A. members whose names and photographs appear in those records.
B. Catalogs, indexes and classifies all new and existing archival materials.
C. Attends all Area 64 Assemblies and reports to the assembly body the pertinent business
of the Area 64 Archives Committee.
D. Makes available an Archives Display at all Area 64 Assemblies, State Conventions and,
by request, Area Workshops and other service events upon reasonable prior notification.
E. Guide and encourage the district and group representatives in the collection of archival
material.
F. Chairs the Area 64 Archives Committee Meetings.
G. In the absence of the Area 64 Archives Committee Chairperson, the Alternate
Chairperson will assume Chairperson?s responsibilities.
Cooperation with the Professional Community
The Area 64 CPC Chairperson coordinates the efforts of the Area CPC Committee which is
comprised of District and Group Representatives and any other interested A.A. members.
The primary purpose of the CPC Committee is to provide information to those who have
contact with alcoholics through their profession. The Chairperson of the Area 64 CPC
Committee:
A. Coordinates Committee efforts to provide literature and other information about A.A. to
professionals who come in contact with alcoholics.
B. Encourages and supports districts and groups in their efforts by coordinating workshops,
helping to provide literature as needed in sharing experience.
C. Attends all Area 64 Assemblies and reports to the assembly body the pertinent business
of the Area 64 CPC Committee.
D. Makes available a CPC Literature Display at all Area 64 Assemblies, State Conventions
and, by request, at Area Workshops and any other service events upon reasonable prior
notification.
E. Chairs the Area 64 CPC Committee meetings.
F. In the absence of the Area 64 CPC Chairperson, the Alternate Chairperson will assume
Chairperson?s responsibilities.
Page 30
Correctional Facilities
The Area 64 CFC Chairperson coordinates the efforts of the Area 64 CFC Committee which
is comprised of District and Group Representatives and any other interested A.A. members.
The purpose of the CFC Committee is to organize and carry out the work of carrying A.A.?s
message of recovery to alcoholics behind the walls and to help ?Bridge the Gap? from inside
the facility to the outside A.A. community. The chairperson of the Area 64 CFC Committee:
A. Assists districts and groups in solving problems related to setting up A.A. meetings in
correctional facilities in their districts.
B. Helps members of the CFC Committee acquire A.A. books and literature as needed.
C. Attends all Area 64 Assemblies and reports to the Assembly body the pertinent business
of the Area 64 CFC Committee.
D. Encourages committee to become familiar with ?Bridging the Gap? and other A.A.
programs designed to help inmates.
E. Makes available a CFC Display at all Area 64 Assemblies, State Conventions and, by
request, at Area Workshops and other service events upon reasonable prior notification.
F. Chairs the Area 64 CFC Committee meetings.
G. In the absence of the Area 64 CFC Chairperson, the Alternate Chairperson will assume
Chairperson?s responsibilities.
Grapevine
The Area 64 Grapevine Chairperson coordinates the efforts of the Area 64 Grapevine Committee
which is comprised of District and Group Representatives and any other interested A.A.
members. The primary purpose of the Grapevine Committee is to inform groups and individuals
about the International Monthly Journal of Alcoholics Anonymous and the many benefits that can
be derived through the Grapevine Subscription. The Chairperson of the Area 64 Grapevine
Committee:
A. Encourages the use of the Grapevine in the Twelve Step work of other Standing
Committees.
B. Coordinates in the most effective manner the flow of information, creating awareness of
the Grapevine Magazine and of the Specialty Items from Grapevine Inc. from the Area 64
Assembly to Districts, Groups and A.A. members.
C. Attends all Area 64 Assemblies and reports to the Assembly body the pertinent business
of the Area 64 Grapevine Committee.
D. Makes available a Grapevine Display at all Area 64 Assemblies, State Conventions and,
by request, at Area Workshops and other service events upon reasonable prior
notification.
E. Chairs the Area 64 Grapevine Committee meetings.
F. In the absence of the Area 64 Grapevine Chairperson, the Alternate Chairperson will
assume Chairperson?s responsibilities.
Public Information
The Area 64 Public Information Chairperson coordinates the Area 64 Public Information
Committee which is comprised of District and Group Representatives and any other interested
A.A. members. The purpose of the Area 64 Public Information Committee is to provide
information about A.A.?s message of recovery to the general public. The Chairperson of Area 64
Public Information:
A. Acquires and maintains recorded A.A. public service announcements for the use of
District and Group Public Information Committees.
B. Helps committee members work with their local media utilizing our traditions of
anonymity, singleness of purpose, non-affiliation, and attraction rather than promotion.
C. Supports Districts and Groups in their Public Information efforts by coordinating
workshops on speaking at non-A.A. meetings and other related topics.
D. Attends all Area 64 Assemblies and reports to the Assembly body the pertinent business
of the Area 64 Public Information Committee.
Page 31
E. Makes available a Public Information Display at all Area 64 Assemblies, State
Conventions and, by request, at Area Workshops and other service events upon
reasonable prior notification.
F. Chairs the Area 64 Public Information Committee meetings.
G. In the absence of the Area 64 Public Information Chairperson, the Alternate Chairperson
will assume Chairperson?s responsibilities.
Treatment Facilities
The Area 64 Treatment Facilities Chairperson coordinates the efforts of the Area Treatment
Facilities Committee which is comprised of District and Group Representatives and any other
interested A.A. members. The primary purpose of the Area 64 Treatment Facilities Committee is
to coordinate the work of individual A.A. members and groups who are interested in carrying our
message to alcoholics in treatment facilities. The Chairperson of the Area 64 Treatment Facilities
Committee:
A. Assists District and Group Treatment Facilities Committees in setting up A.A. meetings in
treatment facilities in such a manner as to safeguard A.A.?s Twelve Steps and Twelve
Traditions.
B. Helps members of Treatment Facilities Committee obtain A.A. literature as needed.
C. Attends all Area 64 Assemblies and reports to the Assembly body the pertinent business
of the Area 64 Treatment Facilities Committee.
D. Makes available a Treatment Facilities Display at all Area 64 Assemblies, State
Conventions and, by request, at Area Workshops and other service events upon
reasonable prior notification.
E. Chairs the Area 64 Treatment Facilities Committee meetings.
F. In the absence of the Area 64 Treatment Facilities Chairperson, the Alternate
Chairperson will assume Chairperson?s responsibilities.