1017 – Group Conscious Decisions

2017 October Group Conscious Decisions

  1. Increase the treasury Prudent Reserve to $122.00.
  2. Form a workgroup led by the current Webkeeper to develop a proposal for changing the GROW website and present that proposal at the April 2018 business meeting.GROW’s webkeeper will form a small workgroup (no more 3 or 5 members) that will discuss and develop a proposal to present to the April 2018 business meeting for a path forward in addressing these two workgroup objectives:
    1. How to manage the group’s increasing need for easy access and user friendliness to the GROW website with focus on weekly meeting topics and archival business meeting notes.
    2. How to address the roles of web-keeper and backup web-keeper so that they are accessible to more membership involvement (i.e., making the web-keeper position a rotating one and making the tasks of the roles of web-keeper and backup web-keeper less technical and more about maintaining content on the website.

    Specifically, the proposal to be presented to the April 2018 business meeting will include:

    • Recommended software, web hosting needs, and associated costs;
    • Timeline and steps for website conversion;
    • Recommended changes to the Webkeeper and Webkeeper Back-up positions; and
    • Any other recommendations to accomplish workgroup objectives.
  3. Add a bullet to the Trusted Servant Common Duties section that calls for Trusted Servants to inform the Steering Committee (through the Secretary and/or Business Chair) when they are unable to meet all the duties described in their Position Description.Recommended language:
    (as second bullet under the Trusted Servant Common Duties section at g-r-o-w.com/members/ts/tsdesc.htm#tscommon):

    Smooth and uninterrupted volunteer service to GROW depends upon your ability to carry out your commitments. If a Trusted Servant finds that she cannot meet all the duties listed in her Job Description, she will inform the Secretary and/or Business Meeting Chair that she is unable to fulfill her responsibilities. Working with the Trusted Servant and the Steering Committee, the Secretary and/or Business Chair will then seek alternatives for assuring all duties are covered (including securing a temporary back-up or advertising the position on the main list). If a member of the Steering Committee is concerned that not all items in a job description are being met, she may bring her concern to Secretary and/or Business Meeting Chair, who will work with the Trusted Servant to assure their duties are covered.

  4. Between this meeting (October 2017) and the April 2018 meeting, the Business Meeting Chair will work with prior and current Trusted Servants to review and update their position descriptions to be presented for approval in April.

1017 – Business Meeting Proposals

List of Proposals
  • Proposal 2.1: Abolish the position of OIAA Representative.
  • Proposal 3.2: Discuss the creation of a new GROW web site.
    • Proposal 3.3: Form a workgroup led by the current Webkeeper …
    • Proposal 3.4: Form a workgroup led by the current Webkeeper …
  • Proposal 4.2: Increase the treasury Prudent Reserve to $122.00.
  • Proposal 5.3: Trusted Servants will inform the Steering Committee …
    • Proposal 5.4: Trusted Servants will inform the Steering Committee …
  • Proposal 6.4: When a Trusted Servant’s term of service finishes, the vacated position …
    • Proposal 6.5a: (Announcing TS Vacancies – Version A)
    • Proposal 6.5b: (Announcing TS Vacancies – Version B)
  • Proposal 7.4: Update position descriptions
    • Proposal 7.5: Update position descriptions

 

Proposal 1: Establish a Facebook page for GROW.

A private Facebook page would provide an informal meeting area for before and after our meeting – similar to going to coffee after a face-to-face meeting.

Rationale: Social media can provide a tremendous amount of support for members of the group, and I believe the relationships between our members would be strengthened through this. It would give us an area where people could share about things not directly related to sobriety and where our members can get to know each other in a way not really possible in the mailing list. A private Facebook page could offer an informal avenue for getting support and for having fun.

I could create a page and advertise it informally, but would prefer to have a group conscience guide the activity for this. The task of administering or managing the Facebook page could fall under the Webkeeper. As the backup webkeeper I would volunteer to establish and administer the page.


Note: We discussed this proposal during the April business meeting but did not come to a decision on what to do. This document includes not only the original proposal but also a list of questions that arose and summaries of what was said in April. Please read all the way to the end of this document. – Danna GROW Business Chair

[Beginning of notes on Proposal 1]

In order to document our April discussions on this issue, here are questions already raised that should be considered and discussed in October (grouped by common theme):

General

  • Would the private Facebook page be an “official” arm of GROW?
  • Is a Facebook page (even a private one) a violation of AA’s 11th Tradition?
  • What would be the benefits of a private Facebook page for GROW members?
  • Can the Facebook page create any security problems for the e-mail meeting?
  • Should we (and how do we) get feedback from GROW members on the possibility of having a private Facebook page for all members?

Facebook page management

  • How will the private Facebook be administered or managed?
  • Should more than one person be authorized to administer the Facebook page?
  • Do we need to create a new Trusted Servant position to administer the site?
  • If we do need a new Trusted Servants position, what will her job description say?
  • What length of term would the administrator/moderator hold?
  • How will the Facebook page administrator know who is eligible for membership?
  • What would the Facebook page/group do to ensure the anonymity of all GROW members?
  • How will disputes/disagreements be handled in the Facebook group?
  • Do we need to (and how do we) measure the success or failure of the Facebook page?

Relationship to & Impact on GROW’s main mailing list

  • Would the private Facebook page be “advertised” on GROW’s website?
  • How will GROW members be informed of or invited to join the private Facebook page?
  • Will members who leave GROW be asked to leave the Facebook page?
  • Could the Facebook page create a clique within GROW that would make some members feel left out?
  • What impact would the Facebook page have on GROW’s ongoing AA e-mail meeting?

APRIL 2017 SUMMARIES

During the fourth 3-day session, we discussed a new proposal to create a private Facebook page for GROW. The page would offer GROW members a meeting- before- or after-the-meeting and a way to get to know each other better. Discussions were animated, covering a wide range of arguments. Many participants supported the idea; however, many others had concerns about AA’s tradition of anonymity, how the Facebook page would be administered, whether the page would detract from the primary purpose of the mailing list, and the conditions of membership in the private page. Some members felt the page might create a clique within GROW that would damage the e-mail meeting.

Several participants who are members of private Facebook pages shared their experience with the group. The proposal’s author provided a detailed rationale that responded to most of the concerns that had been raised. A couple of participants wondered if we should not bring this question to the entire mailing list. Several members pointed out that accepting this proposal could necessitate creating a new Trusted Servant to administer the private Facebook page and, therefore, a new job description.

With little resolution on the issue and the end of the meeting on the horizon, we will vote on three options: create a private Facebook page with no further discussion, creating a private Facebook page for a six-month trial period and revisiting the issue in the October business meeting, or deferring the discussion until the October business meeting (without creating the page).

Voting on Proposal

Participants voted on one of three options:

  • 7a: Establish a Facebook page for GROW.
  • 7b: Establish a Facebook page for GROW and revisit the proposal during the October 2017 business meeting to assess its performance and impact on the GROW e-mail meeting and decide if it should be continued.
  • 7c: Defer until the October 2017 business meeting a decision on the proposal to establish a private Facebook page for GROW members so that further discussions can take place.

Seventeen participants voted for all of the three options, but no option received the 2/3 majority required to adopt as a Group Conscience decision. Because we have reached no decision by the 17th day of the meeting, we will table the proposal until the October 2017 meeting.

[end of notes on Proposal 1.]


Summary of Discussion on Proposal 1.1 (GROW Facebook page)

  • Many participants commented on Proposal 1.1 (Establish a private Facebook page for GROW).
  • One participant shared the GSO guidelines “General Social Networking Websites” with the group. The guidelines addressed concerns about AA and individual anonymity within the social networking framework.
  • Several members expressed concern that a GROW Facebook page would not be consistent with Tradition 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.”
  • Some participants expressed concerns about security, potential hacking or vulnerability of personal information. Others were concerned about personal anonymity. Several members said they would not participant in a GROW Facebook page.
  • With much support for the idea, a member suggested that a Facebook page should not be officially affiliated with GROW or AA – that it should be a personal page to which GROW members can be invited and that it should not be used for GROW business or sharing or for AA materials. The personal Facebook page for GROW members would be for socializing only.
  • A participant pointed out that if the page were a personal page not affiliated with GROW, it would not be subject to approval or a vote in the business meeting and that page administration would not be a concern for us.
  • Participants shared their experiences with other similar private group Facebook pages. Some reported fairly negative experiences where posts were inappropriate or argumentative and where the page administrator became more of a “fire fighter.” Others’ experiences were more positive.

Call for Votes on Proposal 1.1 (GROW Facebook page)
Proposal 1.1: Establish a Facebook page for GROW.
A private Facebook page would provide an informal meeting area for before and after our meeting – similar to going to coffee after a face-to-face meeting.

If you agree with this proposal *as is*, please vote “I agree.”
If you disagree with this proposal *as is,* please vote “I disagree.”

Please send your vote to grow-business@oso-aa.org or, if you want to vote privately, to dmcd.grow@zoho.com.

We will take votes through the end of the day on Saturday. I will announce the results on Sunday, October 8th.


Resuits of Voting on Proposal 1.1 (GROW Facebook page)
A total of 21 participants voted (of 28 ‘registered’) on the proposal to establish a private Facebook page for GROW members.

Two (2) participants voted in favor, and nineteen (19) voted against Proposal 1.1. The vote did not meet the requirement for a 2/3 majority vote in favor of the proposal.

Our Business Meeting Guidelines allow three days for the minority opinion to be presented and discussed. If, after hearing the minority opinion, any participant wants to change their vote from “I disagree” to “I agree,” we will conduct a second vote.

At this time, I request that each of those who voted “I agree” on Proposal 1.1 send me a private note letting me know if they plan to post a “minority opinion.”

If the minority does not want to express their opinion, we will close this discussion, and the vote stands. Since the proposal has failed, it cannot be considered again until October 2018.


Proposal 1.2: Minority opinion – Facebook group
Grow business members,

I appreciate all of the discussion that surrounded this topic, and accept the group conscience. What I believe I heard through the discussion is that there would not be objection to an informal group that was announced (in an Off Topic post) to the group once in awhile.

I’ve renamed the group “Test – GROW” to “Growing – Coffee & Chat” and have provide the following description of the group:

This Facebook group was created as an after-meeting location that members of the GROW online meeting can use to get to know each other better and to have discussions that are not part of the meeting.

Note that this Facebook page is not formally affiliated with Alcoholics Anonymous or the GROW online meeting of Alcoholics Anonymous.

I will send a note to our group about once a month or so to let people know that some of us meet outside of the meeting for “virtual coffee and conversation” – this happens in F2F meetings frequently and can be analogous to a member introducing herself to a newcomer and inviting them to coffee after the meeting.

Thanks again for the discussion and being part of the group conscience.
Cheryl D.


Process for Proposal 1.2 (Facebook)
The Business Meeting Guidelines allow for people to change their vote after the Minority Opinion is presented. If someone changes their vote, a re-vote would be held. If no majority voters have been persuaded to change their opinion, there will not be another vote. The proposal fails, and it cannot be revisited until October 2018.

We have until end-of-day on Tuesday to see if anyone wants to change their vote on the Facebook proposal. If you want to change your vote, please let me know.


Outcome of Proposal 1.2: (GROW Facebook page)
The Minority Opinion submitted to the group outlined a private Facebook page that would not be officially related to GROW but that would be named “Growing – Coffee & Chat” and would include an informal off-topic message to the Grow list inviting members to join the page. The minority writer also submitted an excerpt from the AA pamphlet “The Group” discussing an informed group conscience.

Many members responded to the Minority Opinion, overwhelmingly opposed to the hypothetical private Facebook page, its name, and any off-topic message to the main list about the page. As a result, the woman who submitted the proposal changed her vote to “I disagree.”

After the changed vote, the final results are one (1) “I agree” and 21 “I disagree.” Therefore, the proposal fails and will not be discussed further.

Consistent with the Business Meeting Guidelines, this proposal cannot be raised again before the October 2018 Business Meeting.


Proposal 2.1: Discontinue the OIAA Rep position.

Rationale: In April 2016, after lengthy discussions and a re-vote, our Group Conscience decision was that: “GROW will remain and continue to send a Representative to Intergroup meetings.” We were to re-visit this decision in October 2016.

We stopped sending GROW contributions to OIAA in October 2014. Checks had not been cashed for months, and members who been our OIAA Rep could not tolerate the language and bickering that went on during the OIAA meetings.

In October 2016, we had a volunteer in place as our OIAA Rep to run for one year until October 2017. To my knowledge, during this past year, we have received no feedback/ or communications regarding OIAA meetings, and no member has raised any concerns about the lack of information regarding OIAA.

For these reasons, it seems that we do not need this service position any longer. We should delete it from our list of Trusted Servants and archive references to it on our website.


Summary of Discussion on Proposal 2.2 (OIAA Rep position)

Discussion of Proposal 2.1 (Proposal 2.1: Discontinue the OIAA Representative position) centered on GROW’s relationship with the larger AA online community and the nature of the OIAA Rep position. A participant shared a Grapevine article, “Living Cyber,” that talked about OIAA’s hospitality suites at International Conventions and OIAA in general.

  • GROW stopped contributing to OIAA about two years ago, and no information has been shared on OIAA activities over the past year.
  • Several participants felt that it is important for GROW to be part of AA’s larger online service structure, that not participating would isolate us from the AA community and that we would not be aware of issues being discussed by OIAA.
  • Another participant pointed out that because OIAA has been unproductive or chaotic in the past does not mean it will continue to be. She said that, even if we are not contributing to OIAA, we should maintain our connection to that group.
  • A participant pointed out that reporting regularly about OIAA activities is required of the OIAA Rep in the job description for that Trusted Servant.
  • Another participant noted that the OIAA Rep job description is out of date and needs to be revised.

Call for Votes on Proposal 2.1 (OIAA Representative)
Proposal 2.1: Discontinue the OIAA Representative position.

If you agree with this proposal *as is*, please vote “I agree.”
If you disagree with this proposal *as is,* please vote “I disagree.”

Please send your vote to grow-business@oso-aa.org or, if you want to vote privately, to dmcd.grow@zoho.com.

We will take votes through the end of the day on Saturday. I will announce the results on Sunday, October 8th.


Results of Voting on Proposal 2.1 (Discontinue OIAA Rep Position)
A total of 20 participants voted (of 28 ‘registered’) on the proposal to discontinue the OIAA Representative position.

Two (2) participants voted in favor, and eighteen (18) voted against Proposal 2.1. This did not meet the requirement for a 2/3 majority vote in favor of the proposal.

Our Business Meeting Guidelines allow three days for the minority opinion to be presented and discussed. If, after hearing the minority opinion, any participant wants to change their vote from “I disagree” to “I agree,” we will conduct a second vote.

At this time, I request each of those who voted “I agree” on Proposal 1.2 send me a private note letting me know if they plan to post a “minority opinion.”

If the minority does not want to express their opinion, we will close this discussion, and the vote stands. Since the proposal has failed, it cannot be considered again until October 2018.


Proposal 3.2: Discuss the creation of a new web site…

Proposal 3.2: Discuss the creation of a new web site and pursue looking into how that would be done.

Rationale: Currently, a Webkeeper must have extensive knowledge of how to create and maintain web pages. There are web site services offered such as WordPress that make it easy to create and manage a web site. This would allow more members the option of signing up for this position and make it possible to make this a rotating position in keeping with AA principles.

Remarks: If this is too loosely worded, perhaps we could tighten it up a bit before the business meeting. I am purposely leaving it vague because it is the discussion I envision getting started, not the web site itself. It will require several rounds of business meetings, I suspect, to vote this in. I myself have had a WordPress account for a number of years and it is very easy to upload, edit and create. I understand that group accounts can go on it but I am not well informed about web sites. I would love to have more input, and if the idea is not workable, then we will find out.


To get us started on a conversation about a new website, I’ve listed some questions for which the answers might help us move forward. If any of these bring something else to mind, please share it with us.

  • Do you the existing GROW website?
  • What information on the existing website do you use most? Least?
  • How do you access the existing site – computer, cellphone, tablet, etc.?
  • What problems have you had getting to and/or using the existing website?
  • What would make it easier for you to use GROW’s website (to be included in a redesign)?

Thank you for your questions, Sue. I am not personally aware of “complaints” about the website from our members; however, there are a number of issues that it would be nice to correct. I’ll give you my impressions based on convesations with our webkeeper and a few other long-time members:

  • The HTML-based website is very cumbersome for our webkeepers. Each line has to be coded separately. In addition to making it a very labor-intensive task, this introduces the possibility for coding errors that could cause long-term problems for users of the site.
  • Because we use HTML coding, very few GROW members are “qualified” to step into the webkeeper positions. This is why we made the webkeeper a non-rotating position and why we get very few volunteers when vacancies in the webkeeper and webkeeper back-up jobs are announced.
  • Today, many people use cellphones and tablets to access the Internet. Our current site isn’t set up to be viewed that way and can be very difficult for those users.
  • There are software packages available today that make adding, editing, and searching for content much easier. Adopting, for example, a content management system (CMS) would make the webkeeper’s job easier and would allow more GROW members to perform it – meaning it could be a rotating position. It would also give the flexibility to design pages that are “friendly” for users of mobile devices.

Proposal 3.3: Form a workgroup led by the current Webkeeper to develop a proposal for changing the GROW website and present that proposal at the April 2018 business meeting.


Summary of Discussion on Proposal 3.3 (GROW Website Workgroup)
Our Webkeeper presented a general plan for a workgroup of from three to five members that would develop a proposal for presentation at the April 2018 business meeting that would address two primary objectives: improving access and user-friendliness (focusing on meeting topics and archival business meeting notes) and revisiting the roles of the Webkeeper and Webkeeper Back-up. She explained that there are a range of options that are not expensive or complicated. She also reminded us of the importance of Keeping It Simple!

The website proposal presented in April 2018 would address:

  • Recommended software, web hosting needs, and associated costs;
  • Timeline and steps for website conversion;
  • Recommended changes to the Webkeeper and Webkeeper Back-up positions; and
  • Any other recommendations to accomplish workgroup objectives.

Ten participants commented on the proposal to form a website workgroup led by our Webkeeper. All comments on this proposal were very supportive. One participant asked if it might be possible to address the desire for a chat area within the new website. The Webkeeper referred back to the two primary objectives of the website workgroup: 1) easy access and user-friendliness and 2) the roles of Webkeeper and Webkeeper Back-up. She said issues like a chat area could be addressed after the new site was up and running successfully.


Call for Votes on Proposal 3.4 (GROW Website Workgroup)
Proposal 3.4: Form a workgroup led by the current Webkeeper to develop a proposal for changing the GROW website and present that proposal at the April 2018 business meeting.

If you agree with this proposal *as is*, please vote “I agree.”
If you disagree with this proposal *as is,* please vote “I disagree.”

Please send your vote to grow-business@oso-aa.org or, if you want to vote privately, to dmcd.grow@zoho.com.

We will take votes through the end of the day on Friday. I will announce the results on Saturday, October 14th.


Results of Voting on Proposal 3.4 (Website Workgroup)
Eighteen (18) participants voted in favor, and no one voted against Proposal 3.4, exceeding the requirement for a 2/3 majority vote in favor of the proposal. Therefore, the proposal is approved and adopted as a Group Conscience decision.

Group Conscience Decision: Form a workgroup led by the current Webkeeper to develop a proposal for changing the GROW website and present that proposal at the April 2018 business meeting.

GROW’s webkeeper will form a small workgroup (no more 3 or 5 members) that will discuss and develop a proposal to present to the April 2018 business meeting for a path forward in addressing these two workgroup objectives:

  1. How to manage the group’s increasing need for easy access and user friendliness to the GROW website with focus on weekly meeting topics and archival business meeting notes.
  2. How to address the roles of web-keeper and backup web-keeper so that they are accessible to more membership involvement (i.e., making the web-keeper position a rotating one and making the tasks of the roles of web-keeper and backup web-keeper less technical and more about maintaining content on the website.

Specifically, the proposal to be presented to the April 2018 business meeting will include:

The website proposal presented in April 2018 would address:

  • Recommended software, web hosting needs, and associated costs;
  • Timeline and steps for website conversion;
  • Recommended changes to the Webkeeper and Webkeeper Back-up positions; and
  • Any other recommendations to accomplish workgroup objectives.

 


Proposal 4.2: Increase the treasury Prudent Reserve to $122.00.

Rationale: In October of 2015, a group conscience decision was made to purchase a yearly Grapevine subscription (both in print and online) at a cost of just under $50. At that time, we did not discuss adding the cost of the subscription to GROW’s Prudent Reserve. Increasing the Prudent Reserve will ensure the new Treasurer can meet our expenses (six months of web hosting at $12/month and a Grapevine subscription at $50 for one year).


Results of Voting on Proposal 4.2 (Increase Prudent Reserve)
Eighteen (18) participants voted in favor, and no one voted against Proposal 4.2, clearly meeting requirement for a 2/3 majority vote in favor of the proposal.

Since we have a unanimous outcome, Proposal 4.2 is approved and adopted as a group conscience decision.

Group Conscience Decision: Increase the treasury Prudent Reserve to $122.00.


Proposal 5.3: Add a bullet to the Trusted Servant Common Duties…

Proposal 5.3: Add a bullet to the Trusted Servant Common Duties section that calls for Trusted Servants to inform the Steering Committee (through the Secretary and/or Business Chair) when they are unable to meet all the duties described in their Position Description.

Recommended Language (as second bullet under the Trusted Servant Common Duties section at g-r-o-w.com/members/ts/tsdesc.htm#tscommon):
Smooth and uninterrupted volunteer service to GROW depends upon your ability to carry out your commitments. If a Trusted Servant finds that she cannot meet all the duties listed in her Job Description, she will inform the Secretary and/or Business Meeting Chair that she is unable to fulfill her responsibilities. Working with the Trusted Servant and the Steering Committee, the Secretary and/or Business Chair will then seek alternatives for assuring all duties are covered (including securing a temporary back-up or advertising the position on the main list). If a member of the Steering Committee is concerned that not all items in a job description are being met, she may bring her concern to Secretary and/or Business Meeting Chair, who will work with the Trusted Servant to assure their duties are covered.

Rationale: GROW has no process or solution for assuring that Trusted Servants have the support they need to fulfill all of the duties listed in their Job Descriptions. While we assume that Trusted Servants will ask for help, we have had several situations in the past where job responsibilities were not met, and no call for help was issued.

This proposal formalizes the process by which a Trusted Servant can ask for help, and other Trusted Servants can provide needed support. Life events can make it difficult to fulfill a Trusted Servant’s role. All Trusted Servants should know that they can, and are expected to, ask for both short- and long-term help. In the case where a Trusted Servant does not ask for help, the Steering Committee should be empowered to take action to assure that all duties are addressed.


Summary of Discussion on Proposal 5.4 (Trusted Servant Common Duties)
As of today, there have been seven comments on Proposal 5.3 (Trusted Servant Common Duties). Two participants felt that the spirit of the recommended bullet was “common sense” and did not need to be codified into a rule for Trusted Servants (TSs). The proposer argued that it helps “to say it out loud” to encourage TSs to seek help when they are not able to meet all the duties listed in their job description. Most participants expressed support for the proposal, understanding the new bullet as a reminder rather than a rule and agreeing that having it written on the webpage would reinforce the importance for our Trusted Servants of asking for and offering help.

Rather than extend the discussion period to encourage more comments, we will vote on Proposal 5.4 (Trusted Servant Common Duties) during the fifth 3-day session.


Call for Votes on Proposal 5.4 (Trusted Servant Common Duties)
Proposal 5.4: Add a bullet to the Trusted Servant Common Duties section that calls for Trusted Servants to inform the Steering Committee (through the Secretary and/or Business Chair) when they are unable to meet all the duties described in their Position Description.

Recommended Language (as second bullet under the Trusted Servant Common Duties section at g-r-o-w.com/members/ts/tsdesc.htm#tscommon):
Smooth and uninterrupted volunteer service to GROW depends upon your ability to carry out your commitments. If a Trusted Servant finds that she cannot meet all the duties listed in her Job Description, she will inform the Secretary and/or Business Meeting Chair that she is unable to fulfill her responsibilities. Working with the Trusted Servant and the Steering Committee, the Secretary and/or Business Chair will then seek alternatives for assuring all duties are covered (including securing a temporary back-up or advertising the position on the main list). If a member of the Steering Committee is concerned that not all items in a job description are being met, she may bring her concern to Secretary and/or Business Meeting Chair, who will work with the Trusted Servant to assure their duties are covered.

Rationale: GROW has no process or solution for assuring that Trusted Servants have the support they need to fulfill all of the duties listed in their Job Descriptions. While we assume that Trusted Servants will ask for help, we have had several situations in the past where job responsibilities were not met, and no call for help was issued.

This proposal formalizes the process by which a Trusted Servant can ask for help, and other Trusted Servants can provide needed support. Life events can make it difficult to fulfill a Trusted Servant’s role. All Trusted Servants should know that they can, and are expected to, ask for both short- and long-term help. In the case where a Trusted Servant does not ask for help, the Steering Committee should be empowered to take action to assure that all duties are addressed.

If you agree with this proposal *as is*, please vote “I agree.”
If you disagree with this proposal *as is,* please vote “I disagree.”

Please send your vote to grow-business@oso-aa.org or, if you want to vote privately, to dmcd.grow@zoho.com.

We will take votes through the end of the day on Friday. I will announce the results on Saturday, October 14th.


Results of Voting on Proposal 5.4 (Trusted Servant Common Duties)
Seventeen (17) participants voted in favor, and no one voted against Proposal 5.4. This exceeded the requirement for a 2/3 majority vote in favor of the proposal. Therefore, the proposal is approved and adopted as a Group Conscience decision.

Group Conscience Decision: Add a bullet to the Trusted Servant Common Duties section that calls for Trusted Servants to inform the Steering Committee (through the Secretary and/or Business Chair) when they are unable to meet all the duties described in their Position Description.

Recommended Language (as second bullet under the Trusted Servant Common Duties section at g-r-o-w.com/members/ts/tsdesc.htm#tscommon):
Smooth and uninterrupted volunteer service to GROW depends upon your ability to carry out your commitments. If a Trusted Servant finds that she cannot meet all the duties listed in her Job Description, she will inform the Secretary and/or Business Meeting Chair that she is unable to fulfill her responsibilities. Working with the Trusted Servant and the Steering Committee, the Secretary and/or Business Chair will then seek alternatives for assuring all duties are covered (including securing a temporary back-up or advertising the position on the main list). If a member of the Steering Committee is concerned that not all items in a job description are being met, she may bring her concern to Secretary and/or Business Meeting Chair, who will work with the Trusted Servant to assure their duties are covered.


Proposal 6.4: When a Trusted Servant’s term of service finishes…

Proposal 6.4: When a Trusted Servant’s term of service finishes, the vacated position will immediately be announced to the whole group so that others might have the opportunity to serve.

Rationale: Even if the serving Trusted Servant is willing to stay on longer than their term, all GROW members should have the opportunity to volunteer for a service position. If no one volunteers, then the serving TS’s willingness to continue into a new term would be gratefully accepted.

Over the years, there have been times when some of us, eager to serve, have stayed on longer than our term. When a willing, experienced, and able person offers to stay on longer than their term, it is very tempting to accept their offer without announcing the service opportunity to all group members. As tempting as it is to do this, it is unfair to our members not to first ask for volunteers from the group at large. Only when no volunteers step forward should we accept the TS’s willingness to stay on in the position, entering into a new term. Even with the frequent scarcity of volunteers, fair is fair: the group at large needs to be offered a chance at service first.


Summary of Discussion on Proposal 6.4 (Announcing TS Vacancies)
Seven participants commented on, and everyone supported Proposal 6.4 (Announcing TS Vacancies) in general. Two questions were raised:

  • What to do about positions where a Trusted Servant had taken the position mid-term (usually because the original TS quit).

Responses to this question were mixed with several participants thinking that a Trusted Servant who volunteered mid-term should get first opportunity to fill the position in the next regular term of office. However, several participants also thought that position vacancies should be open to all GROW members without exceptions. There was no clear group preference on this issue.

Whether the proposal language should be included in a position description.

The Secretary is responsible for announcing and filling vacancies, so the language should be incorporated into her position description. The appropriate bullet already exists (“Calls for nominations/volunteers.”), and the proposal language will be added to the end of that bullet.

The Chair will present two versions of the proposal, the difference addressing a vacancy announcement for a vacancy that was filled during the term of office will or will not be offered to the GROW membership (if the volunteer finishing out the term wants to remain in the position for the new term of office).

Please do not vote until you receive the formal “Call for Votes.”

  • Proposal 6.5a: Announce all vacancies first to the main list.
  • Proposal 6.5b: Announce vacancies first to the main list except when a Trusted Servant who accepted job mid-term wants to continue in that role.

If you agree that all Trusted Servant vacancies should be announced first to the main list, even when a volunteer has accepted the position mid-term and wants to continue in that role, vote “I agree” on Proposal 6.5a. Your vote for version 6.5b will automatically be recorded as “I disagree.”

If you agree that some Trusted Servant vacancies do not need to go to the main list first (in the situation where a Trusted Servant accepted her position mid-term and wants to continue in that role), vote “I agree on Proposal 6.5b. Your vote for version 6.5a will automatically be recorded as “I disagree.”

If you do not agree with either version of the proposal, vote “I disagree” on both Proposal 6.5a and Proposal 6.5b.


Call for Votes on Proposal 6.5a (Announcing TS Vacancies – Ver A)
Proposal 6.5a: When a Trusted Servant’s term of service finishes, the vacated position will immediately be announced to the whole group so that others might have the opportunity to serve. This applies to all Trusted Servant vacancies.

Recommended Language to be added to the 11th bullet in the Secretary job description as follows:
“Calls for nominations/volunteers. When a Trusted Servant’s term of service finishes, the vacated position will immediately be announced to the whole group so that others might have the opportunity to serve. This applies to all Trusted Servant vacancies.”

If you agree that all Trusted Servant vacancies should be announced first to the main list, even when a volunteer has accepted the position mid-term and wants to continue in that role, vote “I agree” on Proposal 6.5a. Your vote for version 6.5b will automatically be recorded as “I disagree.”

If you do not agree with either version of the proposal, vote “I disagree” on both Proposal 6.5a and Proposal 6.5b.

Please send your vote to grow-business@oso-aa.org or, if you want to vote privately, to dmcd.grow@zoho.com.

We will take votes through the end of the day on Monday. I will announce the results on Tuesday, October 17th.


Call for Votes on Proposal 6.5b (Announcing TS Vacancies – Ver B)
Proposal 6.5b: When a Trusted Servant’s term of service finishes, the vacated position will immediately be announced to the whole group so that others might have the opportunity to serve.

Recommended Language to be added to the 11th bullet in the Secretary job description as follows:
“Calls for nominations/volunteers. When a Trusted Servant’s term of service finishes, the vacated position will immediately be announced to the whole group so that others might have the opportunity to serve. When a Trusted Servant position was filled during the term of office, the Secretary can fill the vacancy at the end of the term without announcing it to the main list only if the current Trusted Servant asks to continue in that job.”

If you agree that (in the situation where a Trusted Servant accepted the position mid-term and wants to continue in that role) the vacancy announcement does not need to be announced to the main list only if the TS asks to continue, vote “I agree on Proposal 6.5b. Your vote for version 6.5a will automatically be recorded as “I disagree.”

If you do not agree with either version of the proposal, vote “I disagree” on both Proposal 6.5a and Proposal 6.5b.

Please send your vote to grow-business@oso-aa.org or, if you want to vote privately, to dmcd.grow@zoho.com.

We will take votes through the end of the day on Monday. I will announce the results on Tuesday, October 17th.


Results of Voting on Proposal 6.5 (Announcing Trusted Servant Vacancies)
During the fourth 3-day session, our discussions of this proposal resulted in some refinements. A participant suggested that the final approved proposal should be included in the Secretary’s job description. The 11th bullet in the existing job is “Calls for nominations/volunteers.” Participants agreed that the language of the proposal, as approved, should be added to the end of that bullet.

The second area of discussion focused on whether all vacancies should be announced to the main mailing list or some could be withheld from announcement when a TS filled the position mid-term (usually because the original TS quit). Because two clear options emerged from discussions, the Chair presented two versions of the proposal for voting: Proposal 6.5a: Announce all vacancies first to the main list.

Proposal 6.5b: Announce vacancies first to the main list except when a Trusted Servant who accepted job mid-term wants to continue in that role. Participants were instructed to vote “I agree” on their preferred version or to vote “I disagree” on both versions.

No one voted against both versions of the proposal, revealing general approval. Nineteen (19) participants voted on each version. Eight (8) participants (42%) voted in favor of Proposal 6.5a (applies to all vacancies), and eleven (11) (58%) voted in favor of Proposal 6.5b. Therefore, votes in favor did not meet our requirement for a 2/3 majority (or 66%) to approve a Group Conscience decision.

Our guidelines state that ” If any item on the agenda has not reached a 2/3 majority vote by the 17th day of the business meeting, the item is tabled and held over to the next scheduled business meeting.” The 17th day of the October meeting will be Thursday, October 19th.

Because we cannot have another 3-day discussion and then a 3-day period for re-voting, we will hold the proposal for the April 2018 business meeting. It will be the first topic for discussion at that time. As a starting point, the Chair will provide summaries of this meeting’s deliberations and votes at that meeting.


Proposal 7.4: Update Position Descriptions.

Between this meeting and the April 2018 meeting, the Business Meeting Chair will work with prior and current Trusted Servants to review and update their position descriptions to be presented for approval in April.

Rationale: The purpose of this proposal is to correct inaccuracies, not to add new job duties.

It has been several years since we did a general review of our position descriptions to assure they are current and relevant. While some changes have been made as a result of group conscience decisions, minor inconsistencies have appeared over time. There are also a few places where a duty is duplicated within a job description.

Rather than make a huge project of a job description review, the Business Meeting Chair will contact Trusted Servants (both outgoing and incoming as appropriate) individually and ask them to suggest where and how bullets for specific duties should be changed to reflect current schedules and practices. (For example, in many places, a bullet may require a TS to provide quarterly reports at business meetings; however, we no longer meet quarterly so semi-annual reports are needed.)

We will not add new duties or delete current ones without business meeting approval, although we make such recommendations.

Asking each Trusted Servant / position to do its own review will allow us to develop current and correct job descriptions. The revised descriptions will then be presented at the April 2018 business meeting for final approval.


Summary of Discussion on Proposal 7.4 (Update TS Job Descriptions)
Four of the 31 people on our list commented on Proposal 7.4 (Update TS Job Descriptions). All comments agreed that updating Trusted Servant positions would benefit GROW. The review will focus on items that are inaccurate or outdated. No items in job descriptions will be added or deleted without approval at the April 2018 business meeting. Despite the few people commenting, we will vote on the proposal in the fifth 3-day session.


Call for Votes on Proposal 7.5 (Update Job Descriptions)
Proposal 7.5: Update Position Descriptions. Between this meeting and the April 2018 meeting, the Business Meeting Chair will work with prior and current Trusted Servants to review and update their position descriptions to be presented for approval in April.

If you agree with this proposal *as is*, please vote “I agree.”

If you disagree with this proposal *as is,* please vote “I disagree.”

Please send your vote to grow-business@oso-aa.org or, if you want to vote privately, to dmcd.grow@zoho.com.


Results of Voting on Proposal 7.5 (Update TS Job Descriptions):
Eighteen (18) participants voted in favor of, and no one voted against Proposal 7.5. Therefore, we have a unanimous decision, and the proposal is approved and adopted as a Group Conscience decision.

Group Conscience Decision: Between this meeting and the April 2018 meeting, the Business Meeting Chair will work with prior and current Trusted Servants to review and update their position descriptions to be presented for approval in April.

We will not add new duties or delete current ones without business meeting approval, although we make such recommendations.

1017 – Business Meeting

2017 October Business Meeting

Greetings, and welcome to the October Business Meeting of Grateful Recovering Online Women (GROW).

I am Danna, a recovering alcoholic, and your Business Chair for this meeting. Thank you for participating!

This is a closed meeting, open only to members of GROW, for the discussion of business as it relates to our group. Our business meetings run in three-day segments and last no more than 29 days.

I will post each Agenda item, one by one, in separate emails and **ask that you respond to each accordingly.** This makes it easier to “tally” the responses and suggestions to each item.

We will have a three-day period for open discussion on each Agenda item. This, hopefully, will allow all members regardless of work schedules, time zones, etc. to participate and comment. At the beginning of the 4th day, I will post the results/consensus of our discussions.

Before we begin, let’s have a moment of silence to reflect on why we are here, followed by the Serenity Prayer.

God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, courage to change the things I can and the wisdom to know the difference. Amen.

In this Business Meeting, let us be guided by 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.

Let us all keep in mind our Unity of Service statement from the Grapevine of September 1998:

“Unity seldom means that we all agree on everything. Nor is unity served by setting aside our concerns and conforming to the majority opinion (or the vocal minority) . . . Unity is best achieved by a full hearing of all points of view . . . time for all of those involved to step back from emotional responses . . . as well as careful consideration and prayer for that which will best serve the group or AA as a whole.”

Thank you for being here and for your dedication to GROW.

Respectfully submitted, Danna M. GROW Business Chair

 

Business Meeting Agenda
Additional individual emails will be coming, to which you can respond.

  • Trusted Servant (TS) Positions (Secretary’s Report) – Incoming & Outgoing TS identified (posted separately)
  • Semi-Annual Reports: GSR, OIAA, Treasurer, Listkeeper, Business Chair (posted separately)
  • Business Items (each will be posted separately to facilitate discussion and voting)

We will discuss the following proposals (short titles) during the Business Meeting. If you have an item that you would like to have addressed, please email me privately (to dmcd.grow@zoho.com), and I will add it to the Agenda. If I have not accurately represented a proposal you already submitted, please let me know so that I can correct it. Since several of these proposals may stimulate a lot of discussion, we will address Proposals 1.1 and 2.1 only during the first three-day session.

  • Proposal 1: Establish a private Facebook page for Grow.
  • Proposal 2: Abolish the position of OIAA Representative.
  • Proposal 3: Discuss the creation of a new GROW web site.
  • Proposal 4: Increase the treasury Prudent Reserve to $122.00.
  • Proposal 5: Trusted Servants will inform the Steering Committee when they cannot meet all the duties in their Position Description.
  • Proposal 6: Announce TS vacancies to GROW
  • Proposal 7: Update position descriptions

Respectfully submitted, Danna M. GROW Business Chair

 


2017 October Committee Reports

Secretary’s Report
Many thanks to the following wonderful Trusted Servants who carry on the vital “behind-the-scenes” work of our GROW group. Please feel free to thank them privately for their service.


Outgoing Trusted Servants

  • 12 Step Volunteer Listkeeper  (4/17 – 10/17): Valerie D.
  • Birthday Listkeeper (4/17 – 10/17):  Susie J.
  • Sponsor Listkeeper (4/17 – 10/17)  Sophie R.
  • Grapevine Rep (GVR): (10/16 – 10/17): Alison B.
  • Secretary (10/16 – 10/17): Laura G.
  • Treasurer (10/15 – 10/17): Cheryl B.
  • OIAA Rep (10/16 – 10/17): Yvonne M.

And ~ drum roll, please!

Incoming Trusted Servants

  • 12 Step Volunteer Listkeeper  (10/17 – 4/18): Amanda D.
  • Birthday Listkeeper (10/17 – 4/18):  Allison M.
  • Sponsor Listkeeper (10/17 – 4/18)  Cheryl B.
  • Grapevine Rep (GVR): (10/17 – 10/18): Sophie R.
  • Secretary (10/17 – 10/18): Karrie C.
  • Treasurer (10/17 – 10/19): Sue W.

Once again, many thanks to all of our wonderful volunteers. It’s been a pleasure working with you during the past year. Please welcome Karrie C. (chaneykarrie@gmail.com) as our Incoming Secretary. I hope you will provide her with the same high degree of support and co-operation that you have given me.

With love and respect, Laura G., Outgoing GROW Secretary


Our Trusted Servants – October 2017

  • 12 Step Volunteer Listkeeper  (10/17 – 4/18): Amanda D.
  • Birthday Listkeeper (10/17 – 4/18):  Allison M.
  • Sponsor Listkeeper (10/17 – 4/18)  Cheryl B.

Trusted Servants who make up the Steering Committee:

  • Business Meeting Chair (10/16 – 10/18): Danna McD.
  • GSR / OIAA Backup (10/16 – 10/18): Joan B.
  • Grapevine Rep (GVR): (10/17 – 10/18): Sophie R.
  • Greeters (4/17 – 4/18):
    Susan P.
    Karen H.
  • Listkeeper (4/17 – 4/18): Lousie H.
  • Listkeeper Alternate* (4/17 – 4/19): Nancy C.
  • OIAA Representative (10/17 – 10/18): Pending Group Conscience Decision
  • Secretary (10/17 – 10/18): Karrie C.
  • Temporary Mentor (4/17 – 4/18): Gigi D.
  • Treasurer (10/17 – 10/19): Sue W.
  • Webkeeper (non-rotating position): Tanya C.
  • Webkeeper Backup (10/16 – 10/18): Cheryl D.
  • Weekly Leader Listkeeper (4/17 – 4/18): Sherrie W.
  • Immediate Past Business Meeting Chair: Gigi D.
  • Immediate Past GSR/OIAA Backup: Tanya C.
  • Immediate Past Secretary: Laura G.

*Becomes Listkeeper at the end of her term.

Respectfully submitted, Laura G., Outgoing GROW Secretary

 


Listkeepers’ Report – October 2017
Our membership as of September 30, 2017 is 319. Regular list members 283 and 36 Digest members (this number is always a little larger than our actual count because some members have two subscriptions – one for regular posts and one for digests and some members have two regular list addresses.)

This time last year we had 256 members. We are GROWING!

Louise and I have been working together for years in various capacities and have a great working relationship!

Our Greeters, Susan and Karen are doing an excellent job and we all enjoy working together!

Respectfully submitted, Louise H and Nancy C | GROW Listkeepers


Treasurers Report – October 2017

Donations
PayPal donations to GROW $532.88
Ally – check donations to GROW $433.56
Total donations $966.44

 

Distributions
Dean Collins $72.00
Susan Williams (new treasurer) $894.00
Total distributions $966.44

 

Total Donations $966.44
Total Distributions $966.44
Final balance $0.00

Respectfully submitted, Cheryl Baughman, Outging Grow Treasurer


GSR Report – April 2017
In the Box 459 Newsletter, there is a lengthy article on the history of the Central Office in New York and central offices in so many other location. It discusses the evolution of AA from a hard-to-find fellowship to one that is easy to access for meeting information and/or having someone to talk to – very interesting.

There is also an article about OIAA, which would lead one to believe it is alive and well contrary to the experience of reps in this group.

There is a report on the 2016 Southeast regional forum in Orlando, an introduction of two new staff members at the General Service in New York and five new Class B Trustees.

There is also a calendar of events around the world.

Anyone can access the newsletter at Box 459 Fall (opens new page).

Respectfully submitted, Joan Bancroft, GROW General Service Representative


Mini Steering Committee Report – October 2017
Since our April meeting, the Mini Steering Committee received one complaint from a member. She reported her Sponsor had asked her for money on a few occasions to help her out in her current living situation. The Sponsor was a volunteer on GROW’s list of Available Online Sponsors.

After reviewing the emails from both members, we determined that this behavior was inappropriate should be addressed. The Secretary sent a note to the offending member advising her that her behavior was unacceptable and to refrain from asking for financial assistance from anyone in GROW. We also advised that because of her actions, we will remove her name from the Available Online Sponsor list until she assures us that she will work out her own money problems and not approach any member for financial help.

We received no reply to our letter, so the matter was deemed to be resolved.

Respectfully submitted, Danna M. GROW Business Chair

 

2017 October Business Meeting Minutes

First 3-Day Period
Summary of Discussion on Proposal 1.1 (GROW Facebook page)

  • Many participants commented on Proposal 1.1 (Establish a private Facebook page for GROW).
  • One participant shared the GSO guidelines “General Social Networking Websites” with the group. The guidelines addressed concerns about AA and individual anonymity within the social networking framework.
  • Several members expressed concern that a GROW Facebook page would not be consistent with Tradition 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.”
  • Some participants expressed concerns about security, potential hacking or vulnerability of personal information. Others were concerned about personal anonymity. Several members said they would not participant in a GROW Facebook page.
  • With much support for the idea, a member suggested that a Facebook page should not be officially affiliated with GROW or AA – that it should be a personal page to which GROW members can be invited and that it should not be used for GROW business or sharing or for AA materials. The personal Facebook page for GROW members would be for socializing only.
  • A participant pointed out that if the page were a personal page not affiliated with GROW, it would not be subject to approval or a vote in the business meeting and that page administration would not be a concern for us.
  • Participants shared their experiences with other similar private group Facebook pages. Some reported fairly negative experiences where posts were inappropriate or argumentative and where the page administrator became more of a “fire fighter.” Others’ experiences were more positive.

Summary of Discussion on Proposal 2.2 (OIAA Rep position)
Discussion of Proposal 2.1 (Proposal 2.1: Discontinue the OIAA Representative position) centered on GROW’s relationship with the larger AA online community and the nature of the OIAA Rep position. A participant shared a Grapevine article, “Living Cyber,” that talked about OIAA’s hospitality suites at International Conventions and OIAA in general.

  • GROW stopped contributing to OIAA about two years ago, and no information has been shared on OIAA activities over the past year.
  • Several participants felt that it is important for GROW to be part of AA’s larger online service structure, that not participating would isolate us from the AA community and that we would not be aware of issues being discussed by OIAA.
  • Another participant pointed out that because OIAA has been unproductive or chaotic in the past does not mean it will continue to be. She said that, even if we are not contributing to OIAA, we should maintain our connection to that group.
  • A participant pointed out that reporting regularly about OIAA activities is required of the OIAA Rep in the job description for that Trusted Servant.
  • Another participant noted that the OIAA Rep job description is out of date and needs to be revised.

Call for Votes on Proposal 1.1 (GROW Facebook page)
Proposal 1.1: Establish a Facebook page for GROW.
A private Facebook page would provide an informal meeting area for before and after our meeting – similar to going to coffee after a face-to-face meeting.

Call for Votes on Proposal 2.1 (OIAA Representative)
Proposal 2.1: Discontinue the OIAA Representative position.


If you agree with this proposal *as is*, please vote “I agree.”
If you disagree with this proposal *as is,* please vote “I disagree.”

Please send your vote to grow-business@oso-aa.org or, if you want to vote privately, to dmcd.grow@zoho.com.

We will take votes through the end of the day on Saturday. I will announce the results on Sunday, October 8th.


Second 3-Day Period
The second 3-day session of GROW’s October business meeting ended on midnight Saturday, October 7th. By the end of this 3-day session, thirty (30) GROW members had signed up for the business meeting mailing list.

Today, the Chair will announce the results of voting on Proposals 1.1 (Facebook) and 2.1 (OIAA Rep) and call for minority opinions. I will summarize comments on Proposals 3.2 (Website) and 4.2 (Prudent reserve) and call for votes on Proposal 4.2.

I will call for discussion of a revised Proposal 3.3 (Website) and Proposal 5.3 (Trusted Servant Common Duties).


Summary of comments on Proposal 3.2
Fourteen participants commented on Proposal 3.2. Comments were generally positive. To get the conversation started, the Chair asked how people use it, what they like and don’t like, and what they would like to see in a new website. One participant asked why we need a new website, and some participants expressed concern about possible costs. Everyone supported the idea of having a website where more people would be able to step into the webkeeper’s role and where the Webkeeper could be a rotating position. Everyone agreed that the site should be more easy to use via cellphone or tablet. Several participants suggested forming an ad hoc committee or workgroup to develop a plan for this effort.

Why do we need a new GROW website?
The current HTML-based website is time-consuming and cumbersome for our webkeepers. It requires a skill level for which few of our members are qualified and coding introduces risk of HTML errors. Due to skill level requirements, the Webkeeper position is a non-rotating position, contrary to AA’s principle of position rotation. It also discourages members from volunteering for the job. The website is not ‘friendly’ for members who use cellphones and tablets to access the site. A participant reported that she has long found the existing website cumbersome and confusing.

How people use and access GROW’s website
Many participants reported that they go to GROW’s website using their computer or laptop. Several commented that they also use their cellphone but that it is much more difficult to use via a cellphone.

Several members reported that they do not use GROW’s website or use it infrequently. One participant reported that new members have been overwhelmed or confused by the existing website. A participant reported that she has long found the existing website cumbersome and confusing. The most frequently-mentioned features that people reported using are the weekly topics and list of Trusted Servants. Participants who are or have been Trusted Servants tend to use the site more often for information on TS positions, e-mail addresses, and duties; form letters; and past proposals and group conscience decisions.

What are the concerns?
Several members expressed concern about the possible cost of both developing and then maintaining the new website. One member was concerned that the site might be “down” or inaccessible while the conversion was underway. Another member wanted the new site to avoid having to enter the User ID and password each time she visited the Members Section of the website.

Because commenters generally supported having a new, more user-friendly GROW website, and after checking with the proposal’s author and the webkeeper, the Chair is revising the proposal to call for the establishment of a workgroup led by the Webkeeper that will develop a proposal to be presented at the April 2018 business meeting.

During the third 3-day session, we will discuss Proposal 3.3 (form a workgroup for a new GROW website).


Proposal 3.3: New GROW Website
Ladies, based on our discussions and with approval of the proposer and Webkeeper, I am presenting a revised proposal for your consideration and discussion:
Proposal 3.3: Form a workgroup led by the current Webkeeper to develop a proposal for changing the GROW website and present that proposal at the April 2018 business meeting.

We will now have 3 days to discuss this Proposal.


Summary of comments on Proposal 4.2
Seven participants (of 28 on the business list) commented on Proposal 4.2. All comments supported increasing the Prudent Reserve to cover the cost of our annual subscription to the Grapevine magazine.


Call for Votes on Proposal 4.2 (Increase Prudent Reserve)
Proposal 4.2: Increase the treasury Prudent Reserve to $122.00.

If you agree with this proposal *as is*, please vote “I agree.”
If you disagree with this proposal *as is,* please vote “I disagree.”

Please send your vote to grow-business@oso-aa.org or, if you want to vote privately, to dmcd.grow@zoho.com.

We will take votes through the end of the day on Tuesday. I will announce the results on Wednesday, October 11th.


Voting Results of Proposals 1.1 and 2.1

Resuits of Voting on Proposal 1.1 (GROW Facebook page)
A total of 21 participants voted (of 28 ‘registered’) on the proposal to establish a private Facebook page for GROW members.

Two (2) participants voted in favor, and nineteen (19) voted against Proposal 1.1. The vote did not meet the requirement for a 2/3 majority vote in favor of the proposal.

Our Business Meeting Guidelines allow three days for the minority opinion to be presented and discussed. If, after hearing the minority opinion, any participant wants to change their vote from “I disagree” to “I agree,” we will conduct a second vote.

At this time, I request that each of those who voted “I agree” on Proposal 1.1 send me a private note letting me know if they plan to post a “minority opinion.”

If the minority does not want to express their opinion, we will close this discussion, and the vote stands. Since the proposal has failed, it cannot be considered again until October 2018.

 

[Minority Opinion begin]———-
Minority Opinion
Proposal 1.2: Minority opinion – Facebook group
Grow business members,

I appreciate all of the discussion that surrounded this topic, and accept the group conscience. What I believe I heard through the discussion is that there would not be objection to an informal group that was announced (in an Off Topic post) to the group once in awhile.

I’ve renamed the group “Test – GROW” to “Growing – Coffee & Chat” and have provide the following description of the group:

This Facebook group was created as an after-meeting location that members of the GROW online meeting can use to get to know each other better and to have discussions that are not part of the meeting.

Note that this Facebook page is not formally affiliated with Alcoholics Anonymous or the GROW online meeting of Alcoholics Anonymous.

I will send a note to our group about once a month or so to let people know that some of us meet outside of the meeting for “virtual coffee and conversation” – this happens in F2F meetings frequently and can be analogous to a member introducing herself to a newcomer and inviting them to coffee after the meeting.

Thanks again for the discussion and being part of the group conscience.
Cheryl D.

Process for Proposal 1.2 (Facebook)
The Business Meeting Guidelines allow for people to change their vote after the Minority Opinion is presented. If someone changes their vote, a re-vote would be held. If no majority voters have been persuaded to change their opinion, there will not be another vote. The proposal fails, and it cannot be revisited until October 2018.

We have until end-of-day on Tuesday to see if anyone wants to change their vote on the Facebook proposal. If you want to change your vote, please let me know.

Outcome of Proposal 1.2: (GROW Facebook page)
The Minority Opinion submitted to the group outlined a private Facebook page that would not be officially related to GROW but that would be named “Growing – Coffee & Chat” and would include an informal off-topic message to the Grow list inviting members to join the page. The minority writer also submitted an excerpt from the AA pamphlet “The Group” discussing an informed group conscience.

Many members responded to the Minority Opinion, overwhelmingly opposed to the hypothetical private Facebook page, its name, and any off-topic message to the main list about the page. As a result, the woman who submitted the proposal changed her vote to “I disagree.”

After the changed vote, the final results are one (1) “I agree” and 21 “I disagree.” Therefore, the proposal fails and will not be discussed further.

Consistent with the Business Meeting Guidelines, this proposal cannot be raised again before the October 2018 Business Meeting.
[Minority Opinion / discussion end]———-

 


Results of Voting on Proposal 2.1 (Discontinue OIAA Rep Position)
A total of 20 participants voted (of 28 ‘registered’) on the proposal to discontinue the OIAA Representative position.

Two (2) participants voted in favor, and eighteen (18) voted against Proposal 2.1. This did not meet the requirement for a 2/3 majority vote in favor of the proposal.

Our Business Meeting Guidelines allow three days for the minority opinion to be presented and discussed. If, after hearing the minority opinion, any participant wants to change their vote from “I disagree” to “I agree,” we will conduct a second vote.

At this time, I request each of those who voted “I agree” on Proposal 1.2 send me a private note letting me know if they plan to post a “minority opinion.”

If the minority does not want to express their opinion, we will close this discussion, and the vote stands. Since the proposal has failed, it cannot be considered again until October 2018.
 


Third 3-Day Period
Summary of Third 3-day Session of Business Meeting
During the third 3-day session of our business meeting, we heard the Minority Opinion on Proposal 1 (GROW Facebook page) and voted on Proposal 4 (Increase Prudent Reserve). We discussed the revised Proposal 3 (GROW Website Workgroup) and Proposal 5 (Trusted Servant Common Duties).

Proposal 1 to create a GROW Facebook page failed: Votes on the proposal were two in favor and 19 against. The Minority Opinion submitted proposed a private Facebook page not officially related to GROW that would be named “Growing – Coffee & Chat.” It would involve a periodic off-topic invitation to the Grow list. The response was overwhelmingly negative, and one participant changed her vote to “I disagree.” With a final vote of one in favor and 20 against, the proposal fails. It cannot be raised again before the October 2018 Business Meeting.

Proposal 4 (Increase Prudent Reserve to $122) adopted: By unanimous decision, Proposal 4.2 is approved and adopted as a group conscience decision.

Discussion on revised Proposal 3 (GROW Website Workgroup): Our Webkeeper presented a general plan for a workgroup to develop a proposal for presentation at the April 2018 business meeting. The plan addresses two primary objectives: improving access and user-friendliness and revisiting the webkeeper roles. She explained that there are a range of options that are not expensive or complicated and reminded us of the importance of Keeping It Simple! All comments on this proposal were very supportive, and we will vote on the proposal over the next three days.

Discussion on Proposal 5 (Trusted Servant Common Duties): Seven participants commented on Proposal 5 which would add a bullet to the Common Duties section of GROW’s webpage containing job descriptions. Two participants felt that the bullet was “common sense” and did not need to be made a rule. Five commenters expressed support for the proposal. We will vote on this proposal over the next three days.

Proposal 6 presented for discussion: When a Trusted Servant’s term of service finishes, the vacated position will immediately be announced to the whole group so that others might have the opportunity to serve.

Proposal 7 presented for discussion: Between now and the April 2018 meeting, the Business Meeting Chair will work with prior and current Trusted Servants to review and update their position descriptions.
 


Fourth 3-Day Period
Fourth 3-day Session – Opening Message
During the third 3-day session of our business meeting, we heard the Minority Opinion on Proposal 1.2 (GROW Facebook page), voted on Proposal 4.2 (Increase Prudent Reserve), and discussed the revised Proposal 3.2 (GROW Website Workgroup). Each of these will be addressed in a separate message.

During the fourth 3-day session, we will vote on Proposal 3.4 (GROW Website Workgroup) and Proposal 5.4 (Trusted Servant Common Duties) and discuss two new proposals:

  • Proposal 6.4: When a Trusted Servant’s term of service finishes, the vacated position will immediately be announced to the whole group so that others might have the opportunity to serve.
  • Proposal 7.4: Update Position Descriptions.

Each of these actions will be addressed in a separate message.

Please do not vote on Proposal 3.4 until you receive the formal “Call for Votes” message.

Respectfully submitted, Danna M. GROW Business Chair


Summary of the Third 3-Day Period
Outcome of Proposal 1.2: (GROW Facebook page)
The Minority Opinion submitted to the group outlined a private Facebook page that would not be officially related to GROW but that would be named “Growing – Coffee & Chat” and would include an informal off-topic message to the Grow list inviting members to join the page. The minority writer also submitted an excerpt from the AA pamphlet “The Group” discussing an informed group conscience.

Many members responded to the Minority Opinion, overwhelmingly opposed to the hypothetical private Facebook page, its name, and any off-topic message to the main list about the page. As a result, the woman who submitted the proposal changed her vote to “I disagree.”

After the changed vote, the final results are one (1) “I agree” and 21 “I disagree.” Therefore, the proposal fails and will not be discussed further.

Consistent with the Business Meeting Guidelines, this proposal cannot be raised again before the October 2018 Business Meeting.


Results of Voting on Proposal 4.2 (Increase Prudent Reserve)
Eighteen (18) participants voted in favor, and no one voted against Proposal 4.2, clearly meeting requirement for a 2/3 majority vote in favor of the proposal.

Since we have a unanimous outcome, Proposal 4.2 is approved and adopted as a group conscience decision.

Group Conscience Decision: Increase the treasury Prudent Reserve to $122.00.


Summary of Discussion on Proposal 3.3 (GROW Website Workgroup)
Our Webkeeper presented a general plan for a workgroup of from three to five members that would develop a proposal for presentation at the April 2018 business meeting that would address two primary objectives: improving access and user-friendliness (focusing on meeting topics and archival business meeting notes) and revisiting the roles of the Webkeeper and Webkeeper Back-up. She explained that there are a range of options that are not expensive or complicated. She also reminded us of the importance of Keeping It Simple!

The website proposal presented in April 2018 would address:

  • Recommended software, web hosting needs, and associated costs;
  • Timeline and steps for website conversion;
  • Recommended changes to the Webkeeper and Webkeeper Back-up positions; and
  • Any other recommendations to accomplish workgroup objectives.

Ten participants commented on the proposal to form a website workgroup led by our Webkeeper. All comments on this proposal were very supportive. One participant asked if it might be possible to address the desire for a chat area within the new website. The Webkeeper referred back to the two primary objectives of the website workgroup: 1) easy access and user-friendliness and 2) the roles of Webkeeper and Webkeeper Back-up. She said issues like a chat area could be addressed after the new site was up and running successfully.


Summary of Discussion on Proposal 5.4 (Trusted Servant Common Duties)
As of today, there have been seven comments on Proposal 5.3 (Trusted Servant Common Duties). Two participants felt that the spirit of the recommended bullet was “common sense” and did not need to be codified into a rule for Trusted Servants (TSs). The proposer argued that it helps “to say it out loud” to encourage TSs to seek help when they are not able to meet all the duties listed in their job description. Most participants expressed support for the proposal, understanding the new bullet as a reminder rather than a rule and agreeing that having it written on the webpage would reinforce the importance for our Trusted Servants of asking for and offering help.

Rather than extend the discussion period to encourage more comments, we will vote on Proposal 5.4 (Trusted Servant Common Duties) during the fifth 3-day session.


Call for Votes on Proposal 3.4 (GROW Website Workgroup)
Proposal 3.4: Form a workgroup led by the current Webkeeper to develop a proposal for changing the GROW website and present that proposal at the April 2018 business meeting.

If you agree with this proposal *as is*, please vote “I agree.”
If you disagree with this proposal *as is,* please vote “I disagree.”

Please send your vote to grow-business@oso-aa.org or, if you want to vote privately, to dmcd.grow@zoho.com.

We will take votes through the end of the day on Friday. I will announce the results on Saturday, October 14th.


Call for Votes on Proposal 5.4 (Trusted Servant Common Duties)
Proposal 5.4: Add a bullet to the Trusted Servant Common Duties section that calls for Trusted Servants to inform the Steering Committee (through the Secretary and/or Business Chair) when they are unable to meet all the duties described in their Position Description.

Recommended Language (as second bullet under the Trusted Servant Common Duties section at g-r-o-w.com/members/ts/tsdesc.htm#tscommon):
Smooth and uninterrupted volunteer service to GROW depends upon your ability to carry out your commitments. If a Trusted Servant finds that she cannot meet all the duties listed in her Job Description, she will inform the Secretary and/or Business Meeting Chair that she is unable to fulfill her responsibilities. Working with the Trusted Servant and the Steering Committee, the Secretary and/or Business Chair will then seek alternatives for assuring all duties are covered (including securing a temporary back-up or advertising the position on the main list). If a member of the Steering Committee is concerned that not all items in a job description are being met, she may bring her concern to Secretary and/or Business Meeting Chair, who will work with the Trusted Servant to assure their duties are covered.

Rationale: GROW has no process or solution for assuring that Trusted Servants have the support they need to fulfill all of the duties listed in their Job Descriptions. While we assume that Trusted Servants will ask for help, we have had several situations in the past where job responsibilities were not met, and no call for help was issued.

This proposal formalizes the process by which a Trusted Servant can ask for help, and other Trusted Servants can provide needed support. Life events can make it difficult to fulfill a Trusted Servant’s role. All Trusted Servants should know that they can, and are expected to, ask for both short- and long-term help. In the case where a Trusted Servant does not ask for help, the Steering Committee should be empowered to take action to assure that all duties are addressed.

If you agree with this proposal *as is*, please vote “I agree.”
If you disagree with this proposal *as is,* please vote “I disagree.”

Please send your vote to grow-business@oso-aa.org or, if you want to vote privately, to dmcd.grow@zoho.com.

We will take votes through the end of the day on Friday. I will announce the results on Saturday, October 14th.


Call for Discussion on Proposal 6
Rationale: Even if the serving Trusted Servant is willing to stay on longer than their term, all GROW members should have the opportunity to volunteer for a service position. If no one volunteers, then the serving TS’s willingness to continue into a new term would be gratefully accepted.

Over the years, there have been times when some of us, eager to serve, have stayed on longer than our term. When a willing, experienced, and able person offers to stay on longer than their term, it is very tempting to accept their offer without announcing the service opportunity to all group members. As tempting as it is to do this, it is unfair to our members not to first ask for volunteers from the group at large. Only when no volunteers step forward should we accept the TS’s willingness to stay on in the position, entering into a new term. Even with the frequent scarcity of volunteers, fair is fair: the group at large needs to be offered a chance at service first.

We will now have 3 days to discuss this Proposal.


Call for Discussion on Proposal 7 (Update Position Descriptions)
Proposal 7.4: Update Position Descriptions.

Between this meeting and the April 2018 meeting, the Business Meeting Chair will work with prior and current Trusted Servants to review and update their position descriptions to be presented for approval in April.

Rationale: The purpose of this proposal is to correct inaccuracies, not to add new job duties.

It has been several years since we did a general review of our position descriptions to assure they are current and relevant. While some changes have been made as a result of group conscience decisions, minor inconsistencies have appeared over time. There are also a few places where a duty is duplicated within a job description.

Rather than make a huge project of a job description review, the Business Meeting Chair will contact Trusted Servants (both outgoing and incoming as appropriate) individually and ask them to suggest where and how bullets for specific duties should be changed to reflect current schedules and practices. (For example, in many places, a bullet may require a TS to provide quarterly reports at business meetings; however, we no longer meet quarterly so semi-annual reports are needed.)

We will not add new duties or delete current ones without business meeting approval, although we make such recommendations.

Asking each Trusted Servant / position to do its own review will allow us to develop current and correct job descriptions. The revised descriptions will then be presented at the April 2018 business meeting for final approval.

We will now have 3 days to discuss this Proposal.

 


Fifth 3-Day Period
Last day of 4th 3-day session
Today is the last day of the fourth 3-day session of our business meeting.

Thus far, seven of the 31 people on our list have commented on Proposal 6.4 (Announcing TS Vacancies). If you want to comment on this proposal, please do so before midnight tonight.

Thus far, four of the 31 people on our list have commented on Proposal 7.4 (Update TS Job Descriptions). If you want to comment on this proposal, please do so before midnight tonight.

Tomorrow, the Chair will announce the results of voting on Proposals 3.4 (Website Workgroup) and 5.4 (Trusted Servant Common Duties). I will also summarize discussions and call for votes on Proposals 6.4 (Announcing TS Vacancies) and 7.4 (Update TS Job Description). There are no more proposals in our que for the October 2017 business meeting. :o)

Respectfully submitted, Danna M. GROW Business Chair


Fifth 3-day Session – Opening Message
During the fourth 3-day session of our business meeting, we voted on Proposal 3.4 (Website Workgroup) and Proposal 5.4 (Trusted Servant Common Duties). We discussed the Proposal 6.4 (Announcing TS Vacancies) and Proposal 7.4 (Update TS Job Descriptions). Each of these will be addressed in a separate message.

During the fifth 3-day session, we will vote on Proposal 6.4 (Announcing TS Vacancies) and Proposal 7.4 (Update TS Job Descriptions). There are no more proposals to be considered. :o)

Each of these actions will be addressed in a separate message.

Please do not vote on any proposal until you receive the formal “Call for Votes.”

The Chair is presenting two versions of Proposal 6.5 (Announcing TS Vacancies), the difference representing whether the Secretary should announce all vacancies to the main list – no exceptions (6.5a) or whether she can fill a vacancy without first announcing to the main list when a Trusted Servant is completing a partial term and has requested to continue in that role.

Please read the Summary of Discussion and each of the Call for Votes before making your decision on how to vote.

Respectfully submitted, Danna M. GROW Business Chair


Summary of the Fourth 3-day session
Results of Voting on Proposal 3.4 (Website Workgroup)
Eighteen (18) participants voted in favor, and no one voted against Proposal 3.4, exceeding the requirement for a 2/3 majority vote in favor of the proposal. Therefore, the proposal is approved and adopted as a Group Conscience decision.

Group Conscience Decision: Form a workgroup led by the current Webkeeper to develop a proposal for changing the GROW website and present that proposal at the April 2018 business meeting.

GROW’s webkeeper will form a small workgroup (no more 3 or 5 members) that will discuss and develop a proposal to present to the April 2018 business meeting for a path forward in addressing these two workgroup objectives:

  1. How to manage the group’s increasing need for easy access and user friendliness to the GROW website with focus on weekly meeting topics and archival business meeting notes.
  2. How to address the roles of web-keeper and backup web-keeper so that they are accessible to more membership involvement (i.e., making the web-keeper position a rotating one and making the tasks of the roles of web-keeper and backup web-keeper less technical and more about maintaining content on the website.

Specifically, the proposal to be presented to the April 2018 business meeting will include:

The website proposal presented in April 2018 would address:

  • Recommended software, web hosting needs, and associated costs;
  • Timeline and steps for website conversion;
  • Recommended changes to the Webkeeper and Webkeeper Back-up positions; and
  • Any other recommendations to accomplish workgroup objectives.

Results of Voting on Proposal 5.4 (Trusted Servant Common Duties)
Seventeen (17) participants voted in favor, and no one voted against Proposal 5.4. This exceeded the requirement for a 2/3 majority vote in favor of the proposal. Therefore, the proposal is approved and adopted as a Group Conscience decision.

Group Conscience Decision: Add a bullet to the Trusted Servant Common Duties section that calls for Trusted Servants to inform the Steering Committee (through the Secretary and/or Business Chair) when they are unable to meet all the duties described in their Position Description.

Recommended Language (as second bullet under the Trusted Servant Common Duties section at g-r-o-w.com/members/ts/tsdesc.htm#tscommon):
Smooth and uninterrupted volunteer service to GROW depends upon your ability to carry out your commitments. If a Trusted Servant finds that she cannot meet all the duties listed in her Job Description, she will inform the Secretary and/or Business Meeting Chair that she is unable to fulfill her responsibilities. Working with the Trusted Servant and the Steering Committee, the Secretary and/or Business Chair will then seek alternatives for assuring all duties are covered (including securing a temporary back-up or advertising the position on the main list). If a member of the Steering Committee is concerned that not all items in a job description are being met, she may bring her concern to Secretary and/or Business Meeting Chair, who will work with the Trusted Servant to assure their duties are covered.


Summary of Discussion on Proposal 6.4 (Announcing TS Vacancies)
Seven participants commented on, and everyone supported Proposal 6.4 (Announcing TS Vacancies) in general. Two questions were raised:

  • What to do about positions where a Trusted Servant had taken the position mid-term (usually because the original TS quit).

Responses to this question were mixed with several participants thinking that a Trusted Servant who volunteered mid-term should get first opportunity to fill the position in the next regular term of office. However, several participants also thought that position vacancies should be open to all GROW members without exceptions. There was no clear group preference on this issue.

Whether the proposal language should be included in a position description.

The Secretary is responsible for announcing and filling vacancies, so the language should be incorporated into her position description. The appropriate bullet already exists (“Calls for nominations/volunteers.”), and the proposal language will be added to the end of that bullet.

The Chair will present two versions of the proposal, the difference addressing a vacancy announcement for a vacancy that was filled during the term of office will or will not be offered to the GROW membership (if the volunteer finishing out the term wants to remain in the position for the new term of office).

Please do not vote until you receive the formal “Call for Votes.”

  • Proposal 6.5a: Announce all vacancies first to the main list.
  • Proposal 6.5b: Announce vacancies first to the main list except when a Trusted Servant who accepted job mid-term wants to continue in that role.

If you agree that all Trusted Servant vacancies should be announced first to the main list, even when a volunteer has accepted the position mid-term and wants to continue in that role, vote “I agree” on Proposal 6.5a. Your vote for version 6.5b will automatically be recorded as “I disagree.”

If you agree that some Trusted Servant vacancies do not need to go to the main list first (in the situation where a Trusted Servant accepted her position mid-term and wants to continue in that role), vote “I agree on Proposal 6.5b. Your vote for version 6.5a will automatically be recorded as “I disagree.”

If you do not agree with either version of the proposal, vote “I disagree” on both Proposal 6.5a and Proposal 6.5b.


Summary of Discussion on Proposal 7.4 (Update TS Job Descriptions)
Four of the 31 people on our list commented on Proposal 7.4 (Update TS Job Descriptions). All comments agreed that updating Trusted Servant positions would benefit GROW. The review will focus on items that are inaccurate or outdated. No items in job descriptions will be added or deleted without approval at the April 2018 business meeting. Despite the few people commenting, we will vote on the proposal in the fifth 3-day session.


Call for Votes on Proposal 6.5a (Announcing TS Vacancies – Version A)
Proposal 6.5a: When a Trusted Servant’s term of service finishes, the vacated position will immediately be announced to the whole group so that others might have the opportunity to serve. This applies to all Trusted Servant vacancies.

Recommended Language to be added to the 11th bullet in the Secretary job description as follows:
“Calls for nominations/volunteers. When a Trusted Servant’s term of service finishes, the vacated position will immediately be announced to the whole group so that others might have the opportunity to serve. This applies to all Trusted Servant vacancies.”

If you agree that all Trusted Servant vacancies should be announced first to the main list, even when a volunteer has accepted the position mid-term and wants to continue in that role, vote “I agree” on Proposal 6.5a. Your vote for version 6.5b will automatically be recorded as “I disagree.”

If you do not agree with either version of the proposal, vote “I disagree” on both Proposal 6.5a and Proposal 6.5b.

Please send your vote to grow-business@oso-aa.org or, if you want to vote privately, to dmcd.grow@zoho.com.

We will take votes through the end of the day on Monday. I will announce the results on Tuesday, October 17th.


Call for Votes on Proposal 6.5b (Announcing TS Vacancies – Version B)
Proposal 6.5b: When a Trusted Servant’s term of service finishes, the vacated position will immediately be announced to the whole group so that others might have the opportunity to serve.

Recommended Language to be added to the 11th bullet in the Secretary job description as follows:
“Calls for nominations/volunteers. When a Trusted Servant’s term of service finishes, the vacated position will immediately be announced to the whole group so that others might have the opportunity to serve. When a Trusted Servant position was filled during the term of office, the Secretary can fill the vacancy at the end of the term without announcing it to the main list only if the current Trusted Servant asks to continue in that job.”

If you agree that (in the situation where a Trusted Servant accepted the position mid-term and wants to continue in that role) the vacancy announcement does not need to be announced to the main list only if the TS asks to continue, vote “I agree on Proposal 6.5b. Your vote for version 6.5a will automatically be recorded as “I disagree.”

If you do not agree with either version of the proposal, vote “I disagree” on both Proposal 6.5a and Proposal 6.5b.

Please send your vote to grow-business@oso-aa.org or, if you want to vote privately, to dmcd.grow@zoho.com.

We will take votes through the end of the day on Monday. I will announce the results on Tuesday, October 17th.


Call for Votes on Proposal 7.5 (Update Job Descriptions)
Proposal 7.5: Update Position Descriptions. Between this meeting and the April 2018 meeting, the Business Meeting Chair will work with prior and current Trusted Servants to review and update their position descriptions to be presented for approval in April.

If you agree with this proposal *as is*, please vote “I agree.”

If you disagree with this proposal *as is,* please vote “I disagree.”

Please send your vote to grow-business@oso-aa.org or, if you want to vote privately, to dmcd.grow@zoho.com.

We will take votes through the end of the day on Monday. I will announce the results on Tuesday, October 17th.
 


Sixth 3-Day Period
The fifth 3-day session of our October 2017 Business Meeting has closed. During this session, we voted on two proposals: Proposal 6.5 (Announcing TS Vacancies) and Proposal 7.5 (Update TS Job Descriptions).


Summary of the Fifth 3-day session
Results of Voting on Proposal 6.5 (Announcing Trusted Servant Vacancies)
During the fourth 3-day session, our discussions of this proposal resulted in some refinements. A participant suggested that the final approved proposal should be included in the Secretary’s job description. The 11th bullet in the existing job is “Calls for nominations/volunteers.” Participants agreed that the language of the proposal, as approved, should be added to the end of that bullet.

The second area of discussion focused on whether all vacancies should be announced to the main mailing list or some could be withheld from announcement when a TS filled the position mid-term (usually because the original TS quit). Because two clear options emerged from discussions, the Chair presented two versions of the proposal for voting: Proposal 6.5a: Announce all vacancies first to the main list.

Proposal 6.5b: Announce vacancies first to the main list except when a Trusted Servant who accepted job mid-term wants to continue in that role. Participants were instructed to vote “I agree” on their preferred version or to vote “I disagree” on both versions.

No one voted against both versions of the proposal, revealing general approval. Nineteen (19) participants voted on each version. Eight (8) participants (42%) voted in favor of Proposal 6.5a (applies to all vacancies), and eleven (11) (58%) voted in favor of Proposal 6.5b. Therefore, votes in favor did not meet our requirement for a 2/3 majority (or 66%) to approve a Group Conscience decision.

Our guidelines state that ” If any item on the agenda has not reached a 2/3 majority vote by the 17th day of the business meeting, the item is tabled and held over to the next scheduled business meeting.” The 17th day of the October meeting will be Thursday, October 19th.

Because we cannot have another 3-day discussion and then a 3-day period for re-voting, we will hold the proposal for the April 2018 business meeting. It will be the first topic for discussion at that time. As a starting point, the Chair will provide summaries of this meeting’s deliberations and votes at that meeting.

Results of Voting on Proposal 7.5 (Update TS Job Descriptions):
Eighteen (18) participants voted in favor of, and no one voted against Proposal 7.5. Therefore, we have a unanimous decision, and the proposal is approved and adopted as a Group Conscience decision.

Group Conscience Decision: Between this meeting and the April 2018 meeting, the Business Meeting Chair will work with prior and current Trusted Servants to review and update their position descriptions to be presented for approval in April.

We will not add new duties or delete current ones without business meeting approval, although we make such recommendations.


Adjournment
Thank you all for your participation in our meeting. Your contributions have greatly improved our group conscience decision-making to support GROW’s online meeting. During the October 2017 Business Meeting, we considered seven proposals and approved four of them as Group Conscience decisions.

Two proposals were not approved and cannot be raised again until the October 2018 business meeting:

  • Create a private Facebook page for GROW members.
  • Discontinue the Online Intergroup AA (OIAA) Representative position.

Four proposals were approved and will be implemented as Group Conscience decisions:

  • Increase the treasury Prudent Reserve to $122.
  • Form a workgroup led by the current Webkeeper to develop a proposal for changing the GROW website and present that proposal at the April 2018 business meeting.
  • Add a bullet to the Trusted Servant Common Duties section that calls for Trusted Servants to inform the Steering Committee (through the Secretary and/or Business Chair) when they are unable to meet all the duties described in their Position Description.
  • Between this meeting (October 2017) and the April 2018 meeting, the Business Meeting Chair will work with prior and current Trusted Servants to review and update their position descriptions to be presented for approval in April.

We did not come to a decision on one proposal and will schedule further discussion during our April 2017 Business Meeting. We did identify two areas of concern with the original proposal: whether it should be included in the Secretary’s job description and whether or not all Trusted Servant vacancies should be announced on the main mailing list. As presented, the proposal stated that:

  • When a Trusted Servant’s term of service finishes, the vacated position will immediately be announced to the whole group so that others might have the opportunity to serve.

Since there are no more proposals for consideration, the Chair will now close the October 2017 Business Meeting. Thank you for making it a very productive meeting!

This final summary concludes our GROW October 2017 Business Meeting. Special thanks to our Webkeeper, Tanya, for posting the Group Conscience decisions and minutes on our website. Also, thanks to our Listkeepers, Louise H. and Nancy C., for their work in getting members signed up for the meeting. By the way, you do not have to advise the Listkeepers to unsubscribe you from the Business Meeting; they will do the unsubs in a couple of days.

The meeting is now adjourned.

Respectfully submitted, Danna M. Business Meeting Chair
 


Final Summary of April 2017 Business Meeting
During the October 2017 Business Meeting, we considered seven proposals and approved four of them as Group Conscience decisions. Thirty GROW members attended the meeting which began with reports on our outgoing and incoming Trusted Servants and on activities since the April 2017 business meeting.

For detailed information about our discussions and decisions, please see the Current Meeting page on GROW’s website. If you want to send private messages of appreciation, e-mail addresses for these these GROW members are available on our website at http://www.g-r-o-w.com/members/ts/ts.htm#ts.

Trusted Servant Position Outgoing Incoming
12 Step Volunteer Listkeeper Valerie D. Amanda D.
Birthday Listkeeper Susie J. Allison M.
Sponsor Listkeeper Sophie R. Cheryl B.
Grapevine Representative Alison B. Sophie R.
Secretary Laura G. Karrie C.
Treasurer Cheryl B. Sue W.
OIAA Representative Yvonne M. to be filled

Listkeepers’ Report: Our listkeepers reported GROW membership of 319 as of September 30th, representing a 25% increase from the same time last year. Treasurer’s Report: Our Treasurer reported total donations of $966 since April 2017 and expenses of $72. The remaining $894 was transferred to the incoming Treasurer. GSR’s Report: Our General Service Representative (GSR) highlighted articles in the Box 459 Newsletter.

Mini Steering Committee: In the period since April 2017, the Mini Steering Committee (MSC) handled one issue involving an inappropriate request made by a member’s online sponsor.

During the October 2017 Business Meeting, we considered seven proposals and approved four of them as Group Conscience decisions.

Two proposals were not approved and cannot be raised again until the October 2018 business meeting:

  • Create a private Facebook page for GROW members.
  • Discontinue the Online Intergroup AA (OIAA) Representative position.

Four proposals were approved and will be implemented as Group Conscience decisions:

  • Increase the treasury Prudent Reserve to $122.
  • Form a workgroup led by the current Webkeeper to develop a proposal for changing the GROW website and present that proposal at the April 2018 business meeting.
  • Add a bullet to the Trusted Servant Common Duties section that calls for Trusted Servants to inform the Steering Committee (through the Secretary and/or Business Chair) when they are unable to meet all the duties described in their Position Description.
  • Between this meeting (October 2017) and the April 2018 meeting, the Business Meeting Chair will work with prior and current Trusted Servants to review and update their position descriptions to be presented for approval in April.

We did not come to a decision on one proposal and will schedule further discussion during our April 2017 Business Meeting. We did identify two areas of concern with the original proposal: whether it should be included in the Secretary’s job description and whether or not all Trusted Servant vacancies should be announced on the main mailing list. As presented, the proposal stated that:

  • When a Trusted Servant’s term of service finishes, the vacated position will immediately be announced to the whole group so that others might have the opportunity to serve.

I want to thank all the women of GROW who attended our business meeting. Their contributions made it a productive meeting and supported the smooth operation of our online AA meeting! Special thanks to our Webkeeper for posting the Group Conscience decisions and minutes on our website and to our Listkeepers for getting members signed up for the meeting.

Respectfully submitted, Danna M. Business Meeting Chair

0417 – Group Conscious Decisions

2017 April Group Conscious Decisions

  1. Name Change for Etiquette Letter/Webpage
    Change the name of the ‘Etiquette Letter’ that is sent out monthly by our Secretary and the heading on the GROW website etiquette page to ‘GROW Mail List Guidelines.’
  2. Recommend separate e-mail address for GROW mail
    Add a recommendation that members overwhelmed by the mail volume create a separate e-mail address for GROW mail. The Approved Language will be placed:

    • prominently on the Welcome page of the Members’ section of the GROW website
    • as a new second paragraph in the Etiquette Letter (GROW Mail List Guidelines)
    • as a new second paragraph in the Etiquette webpage (GROW Mail List Guidelines)

    Approved language:
    Sometimes, new members can be overwhelmed by the volume of e-mails coming through the list. If you experience this, you might find it helpful to create and use a separate email address to reduce the confusion of mixing GROW mail with your primary email address. There are many services that offer free e-mail (just search for “free e-mail accounts” on the web). Be sure to notify our Listkeeper at grow-owner@oso-aa.org if you change your address. You might also want to check out the Digest version containing the day’s posts in a single e-mail (contact our Listkeeper to get the Digest).

  3. Discourage using social media with GROW members without their permission.
    Change the GROW Mail List Guidelines Letter and on the Mail List Guidelines to discourage contacting GROW members from contacting other members without their prior permission on social media (e.g., Facebook, Twitter, etc.).

    Approved Language (new text bold italics):
    In keeping with AA’s 11th Tradition and out of respect for anonymity, we do not: 1) include more than this mail list address on anything we post to the group; or 2) forward posts outside the list without getting permission from the original sender and deleting all identifying information; or 3) contact members on social media sites without their prior permission.

  4. Revised Greeter Letter #2
    Adopt the revised Greeter Letter #2 presented below to replace the existing form letter.

    Approved Greeter Letter #2:

    Welcome to GROW! Now that you’re subscribed, this is one of two emails you will receive to help you start participating in our meeting right away. You might want to print these out for future reference.

    Email Volume
    We have found that sometimes the volume of mail through the GROW list can be overwhelming. If you experience this, you might find it very helpful to choose one of the following:

    • create and use a separate email address to reduce the confusion of mixing GROW mail with your primary email address. Please be sure to remember to let the Listkeepers know of your new address.
    • create folders for your GROW email; filters can also be set up to direct GROW mail into the GROW folder.
    • request the Digest Version (a file containing the day’s posts in a single email). If you would prefer to receive the Digest version, please contact our Listkeeper at grow-owner@oso-aa.org and she will make the change for you.

    Topics
    A new meeting topic is sent to everyone on the list each Sunday and we share throughout the week. On topic and Off topic shares are welcome. We ask that Off topic posts be appropriate for an AA meeting. Please note in your subject line if your share is Off topic (we usually type Off Topic: … )

    Sharing
    To share with the group, just address your email to grow@oso-aa.org and your post will be forwarded to all members. To ensure GROW emails do not get placed in your SPAM folder, please add this address to your Address Book.

    Reply
    Please do not use the “Reply to All’ option when you respond privately to another member’s post to GROW, as your personal message will also be directed to the GROW list and it will bounce to the Listkeepers.

    For those using phones and tablets, be aware that the default reply option is often “Reply to All”, and double-check that you are not using “Reply to All”.

    Please do not type in all CAPS, as this is considered to be yelling.

    You’ll have a choice of receiving regular email (a separate message for each posting to the list) or the Digest Version (a file containing the day’s posts in a single email). If you would prefer to receive the Digest version, please contact our Listkeeper at grow-owner@oso-aa.org and she will make the change for you. (paragraph deleted)

    The secretary posts information about the Trusted Servants and guidelines for our email etiquette once a month. The Listkeeper (the person who makes sure the technical side of our email list works smoothly) also posts information monthly.

    Web Site and Password
    You’ll find lots more information on our GROW web site. The URL for GROW is: http://www.g-r-o-w.com. Some of the information is for members only, so you’ll need the following:
    user name: sobertoday
    password: how2484

    Other
    If you have questions not answered by our website information, please write to me and I’ll be sure to answer them or send your questions to someone who can.

    I hope Grateful Recovering Online Women is helpful to you in your journey and growth in sobriety.

    Again, welcome!
    [ Greeter Name ]
    Grateful Recovering Online Women

  5. Discourage use of URLs in e-mails to GROW
    Recommend that URLs Not be used in e-mails to GROW members except those linked to the AA, Grapevine, and GROW websites.

    Approved Language (new sentence in bold italics):
    Amend the existing bullet in the GROW Mail List Guidelines (Etiquette Letter) and corresponding webpage to add a sentence as follows: “We do not send attachments, chain letters, solicitations, virus alerts or announcements of non A.A. functions. We do not include URLs to sites outside GROW except links to the AA, Grapevine, and GROW websites.

0417 – Business Meeting Proposals

List of Proposals

  • Proposal 1: Send Out List of Proposals to Members/li>
  • Proposal 2: Discourage using social media with GROW members without their permission>
  • Proposal 3: Recommend URLs Not be used in e-mails to GROW members
    • Proposal 3a.5: Recommend URLs not be used in e-mails to GROW members
    • Proposal 3b.5: Recommend URLs not be used in e-mails to GROW members except those linked to the AA (oso-aa.org) and GROW (g-r-o-w.com) websites.
    • Proposal 3c.5: Defer until the October 2017 business meeting a decision on the proposal to recommend URLs not be used in e-mails to GROW members so that further discussions can take place.
  • Proposal 4: Recommend that new members create a separate e-mail address for GROW mail
    • Proposal 4.1 (Revised): Recommend creating new GROW e-mail address.
    • Proposal 4.3 (Revised): Add a recommendation that members overwhelmed by the mail volume create a separate e-mail address for GROW mail.
  • Proposal 5: Change the name of the ‘Etiquette Letter’ that is sent out monthly…
  • Proposal 6: Adopt the revised Greeter Letter #2 presented below to replace the existing form letter.
    • Proposal 6a.4 (revised): Revised Greeter Letter #2
    • Proposal 6b.4 (revised): Revised Greeter Letter #2
  • Proposal 7: Establish a Facebook page for GROW.
    • Proposal 7a.5: Create a private Facebook page for GROW members.
    • Proposal 7b.5: Create a private Facebook page for GROW members and revisit the proposal in the October 2017 business meeting to assess its performance and impact on the GROW e-mail meeting.
    • Proposal 7c.5: Defer a decision on this proposal until the October 2017 business meeting so that we can discuss the issues further.

 


Proposal 1: Send Out List of Proposals to Members

List the proposals for consideration during the entire business meeting. Send the list to the main list as well as the business list.

Rationale: Primarily this is for transparency. It would be good to know at the start of the meeting what all the upcoming business is, just as in f2f meetings. Also, sending this to the main list lets our entire membership know what our business meetings are all about. It may stimulate more interest in the service aspect of GROW.

This is not meant to inhibit new proposals as they come up during the business meeting.

 


Proposal 2: Discourage using social media …

Proposal 2: Discourage using social media with GROW members without their permission

Change the Etiquette Letter and on the E-mail Etiquette webpage to discourage contacting GROW members from contacting other members without their prior permission on social media (e.g., Facebook, Twitter, etc.).

Rationale: Recently, a new GROW member received a Facebook friend request from another GROW member. She felt this violated her anonymity and said she would drop out of GROW if this happened again. In order to discourage GROW members from communicating inappropriately outside the GROW mailing list, our Etiquette Letter should include a bullet that makes it clear that members should have permission before establishing a formal relationship on social media sites.

Recommended Language: Amend the bullet in the Etiquette Letter and on the E-mail Etiquette webpage as follows:

“Out of respect for anonymity, we do not: 1) include more than this mail list address on anything we post to the group; or 2) forward posts outside the list without getting permission from the original sender and deleting all identifying information; or 3) contact members on social media sites without their prior permission.”

 


Proposal 3: Recommend URLs Not be used …

Proposal 3: Recommend URLs Not be used in e-mails to GROW members

Change the existing bullet in the monthly Etiquette Letter and on our E-mail Etiquette webpage to discourage including URLs within messages to the main list.

Rationale: Recently, a member included a URL to a funny video in her share to the GROW mailing list. Another member felt that, because the URL was not relevant to AA and/or sobriety, it was a distraction from the meeting and not consistent with AA’s traditions and GROW’s etiquette guidance. While the Etiquette Letter contains a bullet discouraging the use of attachments, chain letters, solicitations, virus alerts, or announcements, it does not mention URLs to outside websites. If we agree that URLs like this violate GROW norms, we should make this recommendation explicit.

Recommended Language: Amend the existing bullet in the Etiquette Letter to add a sentence as follows:

“We do not send attachments, chain letters, solicitations, virus alerts or announcements of non A.A. functions. We do not include URLs to sites outside GROW that do not address AA and/or sobriety.”

Background: Not too long ago, a member sent out a URL in a message to GROW that linked to an amusing YouTube video that was not related to AA or to recovery. One of our e-mail etiquette guidelines says: “We do not send attachments, chain letters, virus warnings, solicitations, or announcements of non-A.A. functions. We direct all mail of a business nature to the Business List.”

Two Trusted Servants (TS) discussed whether including the URL was a disruption of the meeting and counter to the “primary purpose” tradition. One of them felt that the URL was similar to an attachment, which is prohibited in our guidelines, and should not be allowed in members’ shares and messages to the group. The other TS disagreed, saying that a URL is not the same as an attachment, particularly because members could choose whether or not to follow the link, and did not contradict AA or GROW traditions. The two TSs did not resolve the issue in their conversation.


Proposal 3a.5: Recommend URLs not be used in e-mails to GROW members
Recommended Language (changes in italics): Amend the existing bullet in the GROW Mail List Guidelines (formerly Etiquette Letter) to add two sentences as follows: “We do not send attachments, chain letters, solicitations, virus alerts or announcements of non A.A. functions. We also do not include URLs, links, or addresses to websites in our emails to the group. Links to URLs can contain links to malware and viruses, so we should not be including them in our emails.

 


Proposal 3b.5: Recommend URLs not be used in e-mails to GROW members except those linked to the AA (oso-aa.org) and GROW (g-r-o-w.com) websites.
Recommended Language (changes in italics): Amend the existing bullet in the GROW Mail List Guidelines (formerly Etiquette Letter) and webpage to add two sentences as follows: “We do not send attachments, chain letters, solicitations, virus alerts or announcements of non A.A. functions. We also do not include URLs, links, or addresses to websites in our emails to the group. Links to URLs can contain links to malware and viruses, so we should not be including them in our emails, except links to the AA website at oso-aa.org and GROW’s website at g-r-o-w.com are allowed.

 


Proposal 3c.5: Defer until the October 2017 business meeting a decision on the proposal to recommend URLs not be used in e-mails to GROW members so that further discussions can take place.

 


Proposal 4: Recommend that new members …

Proposal 4: Recommend that new members create a separate e-mail address for GROW mail.

Add to the Welcome page in the members’ section of our website (g-r-o-w.com/members/private.htm) and in the introductory Greeter Letter #2 (sent to all new members upon being added to our mailing list) a recommendation that they create a separate e-mail address for GROW mail.

Rationale: Sometimes, the volume of mail through the GROW list can be overwhelming. Some new members unsubscribe when they are hit with the volume of e-mails they receive. Therefore, it is proposed that the introductory Greeter Letter #2 be modified to include a suggested solution: creating a separate e-mail address for GROW mail exclusively. This was suggested by Patty Y. several months ago and discussed by the Steering Committee.

Recommended Language (a new, second paragraph in Greeter Letter #2): Sometimes, new members can be overwhelmed by the volume of e-mails coming through the list. Creating and using a separate e-mail address can reduce the confusion of mixing GROW mail with your primary e-mail address. There are many services that offer free e-mail (just search for “free e-mail accounts” on the web). Be sure to let the listkeepers know to use the new e-mail address for GROW mail by sending a note to them at grow-owner@oso-aa.org.

Background: Last October, one of our members sent an off-topic message to the group suggesting that we recommend that new members create a separate e-mail address for GROW messages. She noted the frequency with which new members left the group after being overwhelmed by the volume of GROW mail and was concerned that we lose new members when there is a simple solution available to them. The suggestion was discussed by the Steering Committee, and although they recognized that the volume of e-mails is possibly not the only reason that women are leaving our group, there was general agreement that the suggestion should be discussed in our business meeting. Several TSs raised additional approaches for handling GROW e-mails that included the existing digest and using filters. During the discussion, it was suggested to place the ‘tip’ on the first page of the Members’ section under the heading, ‘Important Information.’

Discussion: While you may of course comment on anything you think is important, we should continue to discuss these points to move forward:

  • Location of the new language in Greeter Letter #2. Should it be the second paragraph in the letter or be moved below the 7th paragraph (beginning ” You’ll have a choice of receiving regular email …”?
  • Should the Recommended Language be revised to be less formal, have shorter sentences, and use boldface and/or italics for emphasis? (If yes, someone will need to provide the revised language before we can vote on the proposal.)
  • Should a new/separate e-mail address be linked to the digest format as different options for handling the volume of GROW mail?
  • Location of the Recommended Language:
    • Should it go in Greeter Letter #2 or the Etiquette Letter?
    • Should it go in both locations?

Two other questions arose that are not part of to this proposal. If participants want to pursue these, they should submit new proposals addressing them.

  • Revising Greeter Letter #2 overall.
  • Changing the name of “Etiquette Letter” to “GROW Mail List Guidelines.”

 


Proposal 4.1 (Revised): Recommend creating new GROW e-mail address.

Add to the Welcome page in the members’ section of our website and as a new second paragraph in the introductory Greeter Letter #2 (sent to all new members upon being added to our mailing list) a recommendation that they create a separate e-mail address for GROW mail.

Recommended Language (revised): Sometimes, new members can be overwhelmed by the volume of e-mails coming through the list. If you experience this, you might find it helpful to create and use a separate email address for GROW to reduce the confusion of mixing GROW mail with your primary email address. There are many services that offer free e-mail (just search for “free e-mail accounts” on the web). Be sure to let the listkeepers know to use the new e-mail address for GROW mail by sending a note to them at grow-owner@oso-aa.org.

Discussion: Many people have commented on the changes Gigi submitted for the language and presentation of a recommendation for getting a new e-mail address to handle the volume of GROW mail.

I will point out that the three day-session is not yet over. Tomorrow (Monday), I will provide the summary on this second 3-day session that will cover results of voting and a couple of new proposals, including Gigi’s changes. Both proposals are directly related to Proposal 4.1, so there is no “new” business to be raised in the next 3-day session.

If anyone has an additional proposal to make, please let me know right away to facilitate the timely progress of our business meeting.

Respectfully submitted, Danna M GROW Business Chair

 


Proposal 4.3 (Revised – changes in italics): Add a recommendation that members overwhelmed by the mail volume create a separate e-mail address for GROW mail. The Recommended Language will be placed: [recommnded language below]

  • prominently on the Welcome page of the Members’ section of the GROW website
  • as a new second paragraph in Greeter Letter #2
  • as a new second paragraph in the Etiquette Letter (GROW Mail List Guidelines)
  • as a new second paragraph in the Etiquette webpage (GROW Mail List Guidelines)

Recommended Language (revised – changes from version 4.1 in bold italics):
Sometimes, new members can be overwhelmed by the volume of e-mails coming through the list. If you experience this, you might find it helpful to create and use a separate email address to reduce the confusion of mixing GROW mail with your primary email address. There are many services that offer free e-mail (just search for “free e-mail accounts” on the web). Be sure to notify our Listkeeper at grow-owner@oso-aa.org if you change your address. You might also want to check out the Digest version containing the day’s posts in a single e-mail (contact our Listkeeper to get the Digest).

Notes:
After struggling with how to reconcile differing versions of the language, I have decided to move forward on Proposal (now 4.3), revised to reflect participant comments, and call for a vote.

During the second 3-day session, two new proposals were submitted. Both of these proposals are related to Proposal 4 but include additional action not related to Proposal 4.

The revised Proposal 4.3 reflects discussions during the second 3-day session. Specifically, it adds the etiquette letter [GROW Mail List Guidelines] and corresponding webpage. It drops Greeter Letter #2 since that document is being considered separately. It also mentions the Digest format as another way to deal with GROW mail volume.

In the Rationale for Proposal 5, Laura pointed out that long-standing members would never see the recommendation for creating a new e-mail address if it only went out with Greeter Letter #2. She noted that the Etiquette Letter/GROW Mail List Guidelines goes out each month and would be a good way to give the recommendation to all members. While the Rationale talked about this, the actual proposal did not. Revised Proposal 4.3 corrects this without having to change Proposal 5 or create a new proposal.

Respectfully submitted, Danna M GROW Business Chair
 


Proposal 5: Change the name of …

Proposal 5: Change the name of the ‘Etiquette Letter’ that is sent out monthly by our Secretary to ‘GROW Mail List Guidelines’ and change the heading on the GROW website etiquette page.

Rationale: Business Meeting members would like to add a paragraph (or two) to our Greeter Letter #2 about giving new (or old) members options of how to deal with the volume of mail they will receive once they are subscribed.

Greeter Letter #2 is read only once by the new member and, because there is so much information contained in the Letter, these options may be overlooked or forgotten – whereas they could be reading them monthly as a reminder when the Secretary sends her message to the group.

Since the options (separate GROW email address and Digest Versions) are not really a part of Email Etiquette, they would fit in quite nicely under GROW Mail List Guidelines. The body of the Etiquette Letter would remain unchanged.
 


Proposal 6: Revised Greeter Letter #2

Adopt the revised Greeter Letter #2 presented below to replace the existing form letter.

We will discuss this proposal over the next three days (until Thursday).

Proposed Revised Greeter Letter #2 (Recommended Language):
Welcome to GROW! Now that you’re subscribed, this is one of two emails you will receive to help you start participating in our meeting right away. You might want to print these out for future reference.

Email Volume:
In our experience, we have found that sometimes the volume of mail through the GROW list can be overwhelming. If you experience this, you might find it very helpful to choose one of the following:

  • create and use a separate email address to reduce the confusion of mixing GROW mail with your primary email address. Please be sure to remember to let the Listkeepers know of your new address.
  • create folders for your GROW email; filters can also be set up to direct GROW mail into the GROW folder.
  • request the Digest Version (a file containing the day’s posts in a single email). If you would prefer to receive the Digest version, please contact our Listkeeper at grow-owner@oso-aa.org and she will make the change for you.

Topics
A new meeting topic is sent to everyone on the list each Sunday and we share throughout the week. On topic and Off topic shares are welcome. We ask that Off topic posts be appropriate for an AA meeting. Please note in your subject line if your share is Off topic (we usually type Off Topic: … )

Sharing

To share with the group, just address your email to grow@oso-aa.org and your post will be forwarded to all members. To ensure GROW emails do not get placed in your SPAM folder, please add this address to your Address Book.

Reply
Please do not use the “Reply to All’ option when you respond privately to another member’s post to GROW, as your personal message will also be directed to the GROW list and it will bounce to the Listkeepers.

For those using phones and tablets, be aware that the default reply option is often “Reply to All”, and double-check that you are not using “Reply to All”.

Please do not type in all CAPS, as this is considered to be yelling.

[You’ll have a choice of receiving regular email (a separate message for each posting to the list) or the Digest Version (a file containing the day’s posts in a single email). If you would prefer to receive the Digest version, please contact our Listkeeper at grow-owner@oso-aa.org and she will make the change for you.] (paragraph deleted)

The secretary posts information about the Trusted Servants and guidelines for our email etiquette once a month. The Listkeeper (the person who makes sure the technical side of our email list works smoothly) also posts information monthly.

Web Site and Password
You’ll find lots more information on our GROW web site. The URL for GROW is: http://www.g-r-o-w.com. Some of the information is for members only, so you’ll need the following:

user name: sobertoday
password: how2484

Other
If you have questions not answered by our website information, please write to me and I’ll be sure to answer them or send your questions to someone who can.

I hope Grateful Recovering Online Women is helpful to you in your journey and growth in sobriety.

Again, welcome!
[ Greeter Name ]
Grateful Recovering Online Women

 


Proposal 6a.4: Revised Greeter Letter #2

Adopt the revised Greeter Letter #2 presented to replace the existing form letter.

Proposal 6a.4 represents the original proposal with no changes to the language. It contains (full proposal follows voting instructions):

  • a new second paragraph (with three bullets) for managing GROW e-mail volume
  • deletion of old seventh paragraph talking about the Digest format
  • headings for each paragraph/subject in the letter

Respectfully submitted, Danna M GROW Business Chair

*****

Proposed Revised Greeter Letter #2 (Recommended Language):
Welcome to GROW! Now that you’re subscribed, this is one of two emails you will receive to help you start participating in our meeting right away. You might want to print these out for future reference.

Email Volume
In our experience, we have found that sometimes the volume of mail through the GROW list can be overwhelming. If you experience this, you might find it very helpful to choose one of the following:

  • create and use a separate email address to reduce the confusion of mixing GROW mail with your primary email address. Please be sure to remember to let the Listkeepers know of your new address.
  • create folders for your GROW email; filters can also be set up to direct GROW mail into the GROW folder.
  • request the Digest Version (a file containing the day’s posts in a single email). If you would prefer to receive the Digest version, please contact our Listkeeper at grow-owner@oso-aa.org and she will make the change for you.

Proposal 6b.4: Revised Greeter Letter #2

Adopt the revised Greeter Letter #2 presented to replace the existing form letter.

Proposal 6b.4 represents the original proposal with no changes to the language. It contains (relevant section follows voting instructions):

  • a new second paragraph (with two bullets) for managing GROW e-mail volume
  • deletion of old seventh paragraph talking about the Digest format
  • headings for each paragraph/subject in the letter

 


Proposal 7: Establish a Facebook page for GROW.

A private Facebook page would provide an informal meeting area for before and after our meeting – similar to going to coffee after a face-to-face meeting.

Rationale: Social media can provide a tremendous amount of support for members of the group, and I believe the relationships between our members would be strengthened through this. It would give us an area where people could share about things not directly related to sobriety and where our members can get to know each other in a way not really possible in the mailing list. A private Facebook page could offer an informal avenue for getting support and for having fun.

I could create a page and advertise it informally, but would prefer to have a group conscience guide the activity for this. The task of administering or managing the Facebook page could fall under the Webkeeper. As the backup webkeeper I would volunteer to establish and administer the page.


Proposal 7a.5: Establish a Facebook page for GROW.

 


Proposal 7b.5: Establish a Facebook page for GROW and revisit the proposal during the October 2017 business meeting to assess its performance and impact on the GROW e-mail meeting and decide if it should be continued.

 


Proposal 7c.5: Defer until the October 2017 business meeting a decision on the proposal to establish a private Facebook page for GROW members so that further discussions can take place.

0417 – Business Meeting

2017 April Business Meeting Minutes

Hello Ladies.

The following are the GROW Guidelines for conducting business:

Proposals to be considered during GROW business meetings should include the following:

  1. Proposals to be considered during GROW business meetings should include the following:
    1. A clear brief statement that summarizes the proposal;
    2. A rationale that describes why the group conscience decision is needed; and
    3. Specific language to be presented for discussion and voting in the business meeting (including, as appropriate, language for a job description, form letter, or GROW policy or guideline). This language may need to be modified by the Trusted Servant responsible for the area to reflect the group’s discussions.

    Before submitting a proposal, meeting participants are encouraged to consult with the Business Chair, Secretary, or Steering Committee members to formulate their proposals if they need help. They should also review past Group Conscience Decisions related to the proposal.

  2. We allow a minimum of three days for discussion, more when warranted.
  3. At the end of the three-day discussion period, the Chair calls for a vote. Three days are allowed for voting, which can be done either publicly on the list, or privately by sending votes to the Chair. The Chair counts the votes.
  4. The voting is done by: I agree or I disagree.
  5. At the end of the voting period, the Chair announces the results of the vote. The group holds to a 2/3 majority to pass or fail any group conscience decision.
  6. Following the announcement of results, the Chair will ask if the minority wants three days to discuss their minority opinion.
    1. If yes, then three days of discussion will begin.At the end of the three days of discussion, the Chair will ask if anyone who originally voted for the Proposal (a majority voter) has been persuaded by this discussion to change her opinion. If yes, the Chair then calls for another 3-day voting period. The outcome of the second vote is the determining vote. As in the first vote, the 2/3 majority vote will be observed.

      If no majority voters have been persuaded to change their opinion, there will not be another vote.

    2. If the minority does not want three days to express their opinion, there will be no further discussion and there will not be another vote.
  7. At the end of the voting period, the Business Chair announces the final results of the vote.
  8. Note: If any item on the agenda has not reached a 2/3 majority vote by the 17th day of the business meeting, the item is tabled and held over to the next scheduled business meeting.

 

Guidance About Informed Group Conscience Decisions
(from Alcoholics Anonymous)

What is an Informed A.A. Group Conscience?

“The group conscience is the collective conscience of the group membership and thus represents substantial unanimity on an issue before definitive action is taken. This is achieved by the group members through the sharing of full information, individual points of view, and the practice of A.A. principles. To be fully informed requires a willingness to listen to minority opinions with an open mind.

“On sensitive issues, the group works slowly discouraging formal motions until a clear sense of its collective view emerges. Placing principles before personalities, the membership is wary of dominant opinions. Its voice is heard when a well-informed group arrives at a decision. The result rests on more than a ‘yes’ or ‘no’ count precisely because it is the spiritual expression of the group conscience. The term “informed group conscience” implies that pertinent information has been studied and all views have been heard before the group votes.

– From the pamphlet,
The AA Group: Where it all begins. 2005, p. 26-77.

 

A.A. experience has taught that:

Tradition 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.

Tradition 4: With respect to its own affairs, each A.A. group should be responsible to no other authority than its own conscience. But when its plans concern the welfare of neighboring groups also, those groups ought to be consulted. And no group, regional committee, or individual should ever take any action that might greatly affect A.A. as a whole without conferring with the trustees of the Alcoholic Foundation.* On such issues our common welfare is paramount.

*Now called The General Service Board of A.A., Inc.

The April Business Meeting (GROW-BUS) is now open. If you wish to participate, please send an email to the following address requesting to join the Business List grow-owner@oso-aa.org – if you have not already done so.

PLEASE:

  • Do not hit reply to this email or your request will come to me instead of the Listkeepers.
  • Do not send your request to the GROW meeting list, or your request may be overlooked.
  • Remember that even if you were subscribed for a previous GROW Business Meeting, you must subscribe again, as all names are removed from the list at the end of each meeting.

Trusted Servants (both Incoming and Outgoing) are automatically subscribed by our Listkeepers.

I look forward to your participation at the meeting!

Respectfully submitted, Danna M. GROW Business Chair

 


2017 October Committee Reports

Secretary’s Report

Since our last report in October 2016, we lost two beloved members – Jean L. and Leona K. – due to illness. They are missed by those of us who knew them and may their Higher Power grant them eternal rest.

We had a few changes for personal reasons in our Trusted Servants list as follows:

  • Gigi D. replaced Laura B. as Temporary Mentor when Laura accepted the Webkeeper Back-up position (it sounds confusing but it worked out well).
  • Cheryl D. replaced Laura B. as Webkeeper Back-up
  • Sherrie W. replaced Elizabeth M. as Weekly Leader Listkeeper

 


Our Trusted Servants – April 2017

  • 12 Step Volunteer Listkeeper  (4/17 – 10/17): Valerie D.
  • Birthday Listkeeper (4/17 – 10/17):  Susie J.
  • Sponsor Listkeeper (4/17 – 10/17)  Sophie R.

Trusted Servants who make up the Steering Committee:

  • Business Meeting Chair (10/16 – 10/18): Danna McD.
  • GSR / OIAA Backup (10/16 – 10/18): Joan B.
  • GVR: (10/16 – 10/17): Alison B.
  • Greeters (4/17 – 4/18): Susan P., Karen H.
  • Listkeeper (4/17 – 4/18): Lousie H.
  • Listkeeper Alternate* (4/17 – 4/19): Nancy C.
  • OIAA Representative (10/16 – 10/17): Yvonne M.
  • Secretary (10/16 – 10/17): Laura G.
  • Temporary Mentor (4/17 – 14/18): Gigi D.
  • Treasurer (10/15 – 10/17): Cheryl B.
  • Webkeeper (non-rotating position): Tanya C.
  • Webkeeper Backup (10/16 – 10/18): Cheryl D.
  • Weekly Leader Listkeeper (4/17 – 4/18): Sherrie W.
  • Immediate Past Business Meeting Chair: Gigi D.
  • Immediate Past GSR/OIAA Backup: Tanya C.
  • Immediate Past Secretary: Laurie C.

*Becomes Listkeeper at the end of her term.

Respectfully submitted, Laura G., GROW Secretary
 


Listkeepers’ Report

Our membership as of March 31, 2017 is 221 regular list members and 27 digest members. (This number is always a little larger than our actual count because some members have two subscriptions – one for regular posts and one for digests, and some members have 2 regular list addresses.)

In February 2017, as per an earlier group conscience decision, the listkeepers conducted the annual roll-call (please see the archived minutes from 2013 at for details about this).

At the start of the roll-call, the list had about 260 members. The roll-call was conducted over a 3-week period, during which the listkeepers asked members to respond to the listkeepers as “present.” At the end of the three-week period, those who had not responded to the roll call were unsubscribed from the list. We ended with 225 members. Some of those who had been unsubbed contacted us to be reinstated.

Louise and I both want to thank Karrie and Susan for their great service to GROW as Greeters We became our own little family helping each other out when needed!

Respectfully submitted, Louise H and Nancy C | GROW Listkeepers
 


Treasurers Report – April 2017

Donations
PayPal donations to GROW $342.69
Ally – check donations to GROW $564.84
Total donations $907.54

 

Distributions
Dean Collins $72.00
Prudent Reserve $79.50
GSO donation $711.04
Laura B –
(payment to Ecosoft for group domain)
$45.00
Total distributions $907.54

Respectfully submitted, Cheryl Baughman, Grow Treasurer
 


GSR Report – April 2017

The link for the latest box 456 is available here Box 459 Spring (opens new page).

The latest issue of box 459 reports on the continuing work to translate the big book into more languages, making literature available to more people. The Twi translation was the subject of the Spring 2017 article.

There is an opening for a Public Information committee member. The description of requirements and application process in available on the link above.

There are 2 regional forums coming up on June 2-4 in Pennsylvania and September 8-10 in South Dakota.

The 2020 International Convention is being planned for July 2-5, 2020 in Detroit Michigan.

A calendar of events across the country for the next 6 months is printed in the back of the Box 459.

Respectfully submitted, Joan Bancroft, GROW General Service Representative

 


2017 April Business Meeting Minutes

First 3-Day Period

GROW Business Meeting – April 2017

First Three-Day Session (April 3 – 6) Minutes

During the April Business Meeting, we had a “changing of the guard” for some Trusted Servant positions. To see all positions, please refer to the Secretary’s Report. (In case you would like to send a note to these GROW members, their clicking on their names should open an e-mail addressed to that individual.)

Outgoing GROW Trusted Servants are:

Allison McG. – Sponsor Listkeeper
Elizabeth M – Weekly Leader Listkeeper
Karrie C – Greeter
Laura B – Webkeeper Backup
Louise H. – Listkeeper Alternate
Mindy M – 12 Step Listkeeper
Nancy C – Listkeeper
Susan P – Greeter
Susie J – Birthday Listkeeper

Incoming GROW Trusted Servants are:

Cheryl D – Webkeeper Backup
Karen H – Greeter
Louise H – Listkeeper
Nancy C – Listkeeper Alternate
Sherrie W – Weekly Leader Listkeeper
Sophie R – Sponsor Listkeeper
Susan P – Greeter
Susie J – Birthday Listkeeper
Valerie D – 12 Step Listkeeper

During the first three days of the business meeting four proposals were presented:

  • Proposal 1: Sending out a list of proposals to all members
  • Proposal 2: Discouraging the use of social media with GROW members without their permission
  • Proposal 3: Recommending that URLs not be used within e-mails to GROW members
  • Proposal 4: Recommending that members can create a new e-mail address to avoid mixing mail with their main e-mail address or being overwhelmed by the volume of GROW mail.

Proposal 1 (“List the proposals for consideration during the entire business meeting. Send the list to the main list as well as the business list.”) was generally approved. Supporting comments cited greater transparency and possible increased participation in business meetings as benefits. A question was raised as to whether the information sent to the main list should be proposal titles only or the entire proposal text. Comments supported both approaches. During the second three-day session, we will vote on the proposal.

Since participants supported the proposal in general, we will vote on Proposal 1. To facilitate decision-making, there are two versions of the proposal: 1.1a for titles only and 1.1b for titles and text. We will vote on each version with the assumption that if you vote “Yes” on 1.1a, you automatically vote “No” on 1.1b (and if you vote “No” on 1.1a, you automatically vote “Yes” on 1.1b). Participants who want to vote against the proposal no matter how proposals are listed should vote “No” on both 1.1a and 1.1b.

Participants generally supported Proposal 2 (“Change the Etiquette Letter and on the E-mail Etiquette webpage to discourage GROW members from contacting other members without their prior permission on social media.”). There were some dissenting comments on Proposal 2.

Some felt that if a member has a [Facebook] page that is open to the public, they are inviting being contacted via that media.

Others were not comfortable with making a new “rule” within GROW addressing social media, and one suggested that this situation could be addressed by personal e-mails.

Some comments pointed out that people can change their social media settings to filter what people can see on their pages.

One member thought we should make the relationship between the proposal and the principle of anonymity (Tradition 11) more explicit.

Respectfully submitted, Danna M. GROW Business Chair
 


Second 3-Day Period

During the second three-day session, we will vote on the proposal.

Participants also generally supported Proposal 3 (“Change the existing bullet in the monthly Etiquette Letter and on our E-mail Etiquette webpage to discourage including URLs within messages to the main list.”). While most members approved, there were a few who did not.

One member thought that we might avoid problems by not allowing URLs in e-mails, but she also thought we might lose the benefit of helping people. Another thought we should not prohibit URLs linked to AA-approved literature.

One person pointed out that a sharer could describe the content of the link and ask members to write her privately to get the URL.

One commenter felt that prohibiting URLs was going too far beyond GROW’s desire to avoid “flaming” or in-meeting conflict.

We will vote on the proposal during the second three-day session.

Proposal 4 (“Add to the Welcome page in the members’ section of our website and in the introductory Greeter Letter #2 (sent to all new members) a recommendation that they create a separate e-mail address for GROW mail.”) generated a lot of discussion and ideas.

One member suggested replacing a sentence to clarify the language which met with general approval.

Another member suggested changing the placement of the proposed paragraph within Greeter Letter #2. This brought many comments that included additional ideas (including revising the Recommended Language to be less formal language, have shorter sentences, and use boldface or italics type to emphasize the main points).

Another commenter thought that the Greeter Letter #2 should be revised in general but that will have to be addressed separately from this proposal. Not all participants agreed that a separate e-mail address and the digest format should be linked as equal options for addressing the volume of GROW mail, citing problems they had relying on the digest format for reading GROW shares.

A participant suggested that the paragraph recommending a new e-mail address for GROW mail should not be included in Greeter Letter #2 but rather in the monthly Etiquette Letter that is sent out by the Secretary. She included specific language that would be added.

Responding to that suggestion, another member suggested that the paragraph could be put into both Greeter Letter #2 and the Etiquette Letter.

Participants who think the existing “Recommended Language” should be revised should offer specific suggestions as to the changes they would like to see.

If participants want to pursue other changes to Greeter Letter #2, someone should offer a new proposal.

During the second 3-day session, members will vote on Proposals 1, 2, and 3; however, we will continue to discuss Proposal 4.

Respectfully submitted, Danna M. GROW Business Chair
 


Third 3-Day Agenda

Results of Voting, Calls for Votes, New Proposals

RESULTS OF VOTING

Eighteen (18) women participated in voting; however, the total number of votes was not the same for every proposal.

For details on next steps for these proposals, please refer to the individual “Results of Voting” messages sent separately.

Proposal 1a.1: List the titles of proposals for consideration during the entire business meeting. Send the list to the main list as well as the business list.

Fifteen (15) participants voted in favor, and three (3) voted against Proposal 1a. This exceeds the requirement for a 2/3 majority vote in favor of the proposal. During the third 3-day session, those who voted “No” are invited to share their thoughts with us.

Proposal 1b.1: List the titles and content of proposals for consideration during the entire business meeting. Send the list to the main list as well as the business list.

Three (3) participants voted in favor, and fifteen (15) voted against Proposal 1b. This exceeds the requirement for a 2/3 majority vote against the proposal.

During the third 3-day session, those who voted “No” are invited to share their thoughts with us.

Proposal 2.1: Change the Etiquette Letter and on the E-mail Etiquette webpage to discourage contacting GROW members from contacting other members without their prior permission on social media (e.g., Facebook, Twitter, etc.).

Fifteen (15) participants voted in favor, and one (1) voted against Proposal 2.1. This exceeds the requirement for a 2/3 majority vote approving the proposal.

During the third 3-day session, those who voted “No” are invited to share their thoughts with us.

Proposal 3.1: Recommend URLs Not be used in e-mails to GROW members.

Thirteen (13) participants voted in favor, and three (3) voted against Proposal 3.1. This exceeds the requirement for a 2/3 majority vote approving the proposal.

During the third 3-day session, those who voted “No” are invited to share their thoughts with us.

CALLS FOR VOTES

During the third 3-day session, participants will vote on Proposal 4 (creating a separate e-mail address for GROW) and Proposal 5 (changing the name of Etiquette Letter to GROW Mail List Guidelines). Proposal 4 has been revised in response to comments in both 3-day sessions.

Please refer to the separate e-mails calling for votes for details.

NEW PROPOSALS

In addition to hearing the minority opinion on Proposals 1, 2, and 3, we will vote on Proposals 4 and 5 and discuss new Proposal 6. Please refer to the separate e-mails for each proposal for more information.

During the second 3-day session, two new proposals were submitted. They are related to Proposal 4 but also include action not related to Proposal 4:

  • Proposal 5 was presented for discussion to the group on the first day of our second 3-day session. It changes the name of the Etiquette Letter and corresponding webpage to “GROW Mail List Guidelines.” We will vote on Proposal 5 during the third 3-day session.
  • Proposal 6 was discussed but not presented formally during the second 3-day session. Proposing changes to Greeter Letter #2, it is being presented for discussion during the third 3-day session.

Respectfully submitted, Danna M. GROW Business Chair
 


Voting Results of April 10, 2017 (Proposals 1a, 1b.1, 2.1, 3.1)

Voting Results on Proposal 1a

Proposal 1a: List the titles of proposals for consideration during the entire business meeting. Send the list to the main list as well as the business list.

Fifteen (15) participants voted in favor, and three (3) voted against Proposal 1a. This exceeds the requirement for a 2/3 majority vote in favor of the proposal.

Our Business Meeting Guidelines allow three days for the minority opinion to be presented and discussed. If, after hearing the minority opinion, any participant wants to change their vote from “I agree” to “I disagree,” we will conduct a second vote.

At this time, I request each of those who voted “No” on Proposal 1a send me a private note letting me know if they plan to post a “minority opinion.”

If the minority does not want to express their opinion, we will close this discussion, and the vote will stand as posted above.

Until we know the outcome of this phase of our process, I will not declare this a formal Group Conscience Decision.

Respectfully submitted, Danna M. GROW Business Chair

 


Voting Results on Proposal 1b.1

Proposal 1b.1: List the titles and content of proposals for consideration during the entire business meeting. Send the list to the main list as well as the business list.

Three (3) participants voted in favor, and fifteen (15) voted against Proposal 1b. This exceeds the requirement for a 2/3 majority vote against the proposal.

Our Business Meeting Guidelines allow three days for the minority opinion to be presented and discussed. If, after hearing the minority opinion, any participant wants to change their vote from “I agree” to “I disagree,” we will conduct a second vote.

At this time, I request each of those who voted “Yes” on Proposal 1b send me a private note letting me know if they plan to post a “minority opinion.”

If the minority does not want to express their opinion, we will close this discussion, and the vote will stand as posted above. No further action will be necessary.

Respectfully submitted, Danna M. GROW Business Chair

 


Voting Results on Proposal 2.1

Proposal 2.1: Change the Etiquette Letter and on the E-mail Etiquette webpage to discourage contacting GROW members from contacting other members without their prior permission on social media (e.g., Facebook, Twitter, etc.).

Fifteen (15) participants voted in favor, and one (1) voted against Proposal 2.1. This exceeds the requirement for a 2/3 majority vote approving the proposal.

Our Business Meeting Guidelines allow three days for the minority opinion to be presented and discussed. If, after hearing the minority opinion, any participant wants to change their vote from “I agree” to “I disagree,” we will conduct a second vote.

At this time, I request that the member who voted “No” on Proposal 2.1 send me a private note letting me know if they plan to post a “minority opinion.”

If the minority does not want to express their opinion, we will close this discussion, and the vote will stand as posted above. No further action will be necessary.

Approved Language (changes in bold italics): Amend the bullet in the Etiquette Letter and on the E-mail Etiquette webpage as follows (underlined text is new):

In keeping with AA’s 11th Tradition* and out of respect for anonymity, we do not: 1) include more than this mail list address on anything we post to the group; or 2) forward posts outside the list without getting permission from the original sender and deleting all identifying information; or 3) contact members on social media sites without their prior permission.

Respectfully submitted, Danna M. GROW Business Chair

 


Voting Results on Proposal 3.1

Proposal 3.1: Recommend URLs Not be used in e-mails to GROW members.

Thirteen (13) participants voted in favor, and three (3) voted against Proposal 3.1. This exceeds the requirement for a 2/3 majority vote approving the proposal.

Our Business Meeting Guidelines allow three days for the minority opinion to be presented and discussed. If, after hearing the minority opinion, any participant wants to change their vote from “I agree” to “I disagree,” we will conduct a second vote.

At this time, I request that the member who voted “No” on Proposal 2.1 send me a private note letting me know if they plan to post a “minority opinion.”

If the minority does not want to express their opinion, we will close this discussion, and the vote will stand as posted above. No further action will be necessary.

Approved Language (bold italics): Amend the existing bullet in the Etiquette Letter to add a sentence as follows:

“We do not send attachments, chain letters, solicitations, virus alerts or announcements of non A.A. functions. We do not include URLs to sites outside GROW that do not address AA and/or sobriety.

Respectfully submitted, Danna M. GROW Business Chair
 


Third 3-Day Period

During the third 3-day session, participants voted on two proposals:

  • Proposal 4: Recommend that new members create a separate e-mail address for GROW mail
  • Proposal 5: Change the name of the ‘Etiquette Letter’ to ‘GROW Mail List Guidelines’

Minority views were heard on three proposals:

  • Proposal 1: Send Out List of Proposals to Members
  • Proposal 2: Discourage using social media with GROW members without their permission
  • Proposal 3: Recommend URLs Not be used in e-mails to GROW members

One new proposal was presented and discussed:

  • Proposal 6: Adopt a revised Greeter Letter #2 to replace the existing form letter.

Results of Voting

Thirteen (13) participants voted unanimously to adopt both Proposal 4 (creating a new e-mail address) and Proposal 5 (change name of Etiquette Letter). Since there were no negative votes, no minority views will be expressed. Therefore, both proposals are now Group Conscience Decisions.

 


Group Conscience Decision (Proposal 4):

Add a recommendation that members overwhelmed by the mail volume create a separate e-mail address for GROW mail. The Approved Language will be placed: [recommended language below]

  • prominently on the Welcome page of the Members’ section of the GROW website
  • as a new second paragraph in the Etiquette Letter (GROW Mail List Guidelines)
  • as a new second paragraph in the Etiquette webpage (GROW Mail List Guidelines)

Approved language:

Sometimes, new members can be overwhelmed by the volume of e-mails coming through the list. If you experience this, you might find it helpful to create and use a separate email address to reduce the confusion of mixing GROW mail with your primary email address. There are many services that offer free e-mail (just search for “free e-mail accounts” on the web). Be sure to notify our Listkeeper at grow-owner@oso-aa.org if you change your address. You might also want to check out the Digest version containing the day’s posts in a single e-mail (contact our Listkeeper to get the Digest).

 


Group Conscience Decision (Proposal 5):

Change the name of the ‘Etiquette Letter’ that is sent out monthly by our Secretary to ‘GROW Mail List Guidelines’ and change the heading on the GROW website etiquette page.

 


Minority Views

No minority views were presented on Proposal 1 (list of proposals), and one minority view was presented on Proposal 2 (social media). There was no discussion on either of these proposals, and no participant changed their vote. Therefore, Proposals 1 and 2 have passed and are now Group Conscience Decisions.

Two participants expressed minority views on Proposal 3 (URLs). There was a lot of discussion. Discussions focused on two key points: whether all URLs should be discouraged (including those to aa.org and the GROW website) and the risk of malware and viruses presented by URLs within messages to GROW. At least one participant changed her vote on the proposal, triggering a re-vote on Proposal 3.

 


Outcomes of Minority Views

In voting, Proposal 1 (Send Out List of Proposals to Members) was approved by 15 of 18 participants who voted. No minority views were presented, and there was no discussion during the three-day session. Therefore, the Proposal is adopted as a Group Conscience Decision.

Group Conscience Decision: The Business Chair will send a list of proposals for consideration during the entire business meeting to both the main list as well as the business list.

In voting, Proposal 2 (Discourage contact on social media) was approved by 15 of 16 participants who voted. One minority view was submitted to the group. There was no discussion afterward, and no one changed their vote. Therefore, the Proposal is adopted as a Group Conscience Decision.

Group Conscience Decision: Change the Etiquette Letter and on the E-mail Etiquette webpage to discourage contacting GROW members from contacting other members without their prior permission on social media (e.g., Facebook, Twitter, etc.).

In voting, Proposal 3 (Recommend URLs Not be used in GROW e-mails) was approved by 13 of 16 participants who voted. Two participants submitted minority views. As a result, at least one member changed her vote on the proposal, triggering a re-vote. During discussions, the language of the proposal was revised to address the risks of malware and/or viruses through URLs.

During the first three-day session, participants commented on this proposal. One member thought that we might avoid problems by not allowing URLs in e-mails, but she also thought we might lose the benefit of helping people. Another thought we should not prohibit URLs linked to AA-approved literature. One person pointed out that a sharer could describe the content of the link and ask members to write her privately to get the URL. One commenter felt that prohibiting URLs was going too far beyond GROW’s desire to avoid “flaming” or in-meeting conflict.

During the third three-day session, participants discussed whether to prohibit all URLs, including those to the AA website and GROW’s own website. At the end of the session, there was no clear agreement on this question. Therefore, discussion will continue to discuss Proposal 3 (as revised) during the fourth 4-day session.

Group Conscience Decision: (new language was recommended for this proposal … change underlined): We do not send attachments, chain letters, solicitations, virus alerts or announcements of non A.A. functions. We also do not include URLs, links, or addresses to websites in our emails to the group. Links to URLs can contain links to malware and viruses so we should not be including them in our emails.

Next Steps
During the fourth 3-day session, participants will vote on Proposal 6 (Greeter Letter #2). They will discuss Proposal 3 (discourage URLs) and a new Proposal 7 (establish a Facebook page for GROW).

Respectfully submitted, Danna M. GROW Business Chair
 


Proposals Adopted

Proposal 1: Send Out List of Proposals to Members

Group Conscience Decision: The Business Chair will send a list of the titles of proposals for consideration during the entire business meeting to both the main list as well as the business list.

There was no language recommended, as this proposal does not call for the alteration of any form letters or webpages. However, it will be incorporated into a document (“Business Chair Process”) that is passed from the outgoing to the incoming Business Chair.

Rationale: Primarily this is for transparency. It would be good to know at the start of the meeting what all the upcoming business is, just as in f2f meetings. Also, sending this to the main list lets our entire membership know what our business meetings are all about. It may stimulate more interest in the service aspect of GROW.

This is not meant to inhibit new proposals as they come up during the business meeting.

Discussion: Proposal 1 was generally approved. Supporting comments cited greater transparency and possible increased participation in business meetings as benefits. A question was raised as to whether the information sent to the main list should be proposal titles only or the entire proposal text. Comments supported both approaches. During the second three-day session, we voted on two proposals: 1a which called for listing titles only and 1b which called for listing both titles and the content of the proposal. Fifteen (15) participants voted in favor, and three (3) voted against Proposal 1a. This exceeds the requirement for a 2/3 majority vote in favor of the proposal. No minority views were expressed, and the proposal was adopted as a Group Conscience Decision.

 


Proposal 2: Discourage using social media with GROW members without their permission

Group Conscience Decision: Change the Etiquette Letter and on the E-mail Etiquette webpage to discourage contacting GROW members from contacting other members without their prior permission on social media (e.g., Facebook, Twitter, etc.).

Approved Language: Amend the bullet in the Etiquette Letter and on the E-mail Etiquette webpage as follows: In keeping with AA’s 11th Tradition and out of respect for anonymity, we do not: 1) include more than this mail list address on anything we post to the group; or 2) forward posts outside the list without getting permission from the original sender and deleting all identifying information; or 3) contact members on social media sites without their prior permission.

Rationale: Recently, a new GROW member received a Facebook friend request from another GROW member. She felt this violated her anonymity and said she would drop out of GROW if this happened again. In order to discourage GROW members from communicating inappropriately outside the GROW mailing list, our Etiquette Letter should include a bullet that makes it clear that members should have permission before establishing a formal relationship on social media sites.

Discussion: Participants generally supported Proposal 2; however, there were some dissenting comments:

  • Some felt that if a member has a [Facebook] page that is open to the public, they are inviting being contacted via that media.
  • Others were not comfortable with making a new “rule” within GROW addressing social media, and one suggested that this situation could be addressed by personal e-mails.
  • Some comments pointed out that people can change their social media settings to filter what people can see on their pages.
  • One member thought we should make the relationship between the proposal and the principle of anonymity (Tradition 11) more explicit.

In voting, fifteen (15) participants voted in favor, and one (1) voted against Proposal 2. This exceeded the requirement for a 2/3 majority vote approving the proposal. One participant expressed a minority view, but no one changed their vote as a result. Therefore, Proposal 2 was adopted as a Group Conscience Decision.

 


Proposal 4: Recommend that new members create a separate e-mail address for GROW mail

Decision: Add a recommendation that members overwhelmed by the mail volume create a separate e-mail address for GROW mail. The Recommended Language will be placed:

  • prominently on the Welcome page of the Members’ section of the GROW website
  • as a new second paragraph in the Etiquette Letter (GROW Mail List Guidelines)
  • as a new second paragraph in the Etiquette webpage (GROW Mail List Guidelines)

Approved Language: Sometimes, new members can be overwhelmed by the volume of e-mails coming through the list. If you experience this, you might find it helpful to create and use a separate email address to reduce the confusion of mixing GROW mail with your primary email address. There are many services that offer free e-mail (just search for “free e-mail accounts” on the web). Be sure to notify our Listkeeper at grow-owner@oso-aa.org if you change your address. You might also want to check out the Digest version containing the day’s posts in a single e-mail (contact our Listkeeper to get the Digest).

Rationale: Sometimes, the volume of mail through the GROW list can be overwhelming. Some new members unsubscribe when they are hit with the volume of e-mails they receive. Therefore, it is proposed that the introductory Greeter Letter #2 be modified to include a suggested solution: creating a separate e-mail address for GROW mail exclusively. This was suggested by Patty Y. several months ago and discussed by the Steering Committee.

Last October, one of our members sent an off-topic message to the group suggesting that we recommend that new members create a separate e-mail address for GROW messages. She noted the frequency with which new members left the group after being overwhelmed by the volume of GROW mail and was concerned that we lose new members when there is a simple solution available to them. The suggestion was discussed by the Steering Committee, and although they recognized that the volume of e-mails is possibly not the only reason that women are leaving our group, there was general agreement that the suggestion should be discussed in our business meeting. Several TSs raised additional approaches for handling GROW e-mails that included the existing digest and using filters. During the discussion, it was suggested to place the ‘tip’ on the first page of the Members’ section under the heading, ‘Important Information.’

Discussion: There appeared to be near-unanimous approval for the concept, although opinions varied on the presentation. A concern was raised that, in putting the Proposal 4 language only in Greeter Letter #2 (which goes out only to new member upon joining), long-standing members would not get the benefit of the message. It was therefore proposed that the “new e-mail address” language also be included in the Etiquette Letter. In response, it was suggested that the language could easily be included in both locations.

Another concern was that the recommended language did not include other options for managing the volume of GROW mail, particularly GROW’s Digest format. New language was proposed for Greeter Letter #2 that would replace the language recommended in Proposal 4. The revised language made a new e-mail address a bullet among a list that included the Digest format and the use of folders and filters to manage GROW mail. The new proposed language was amended to include the reminder to inform listkeepers about the address change. The Greeter Letter #2 was revised to add headings to each section in order to make the letter easier to read. Discussion then centered on the proposed substituted language.

Because it dealt with actions beyond this proposal, the suggestion was carried forward into the 3rd 3-day session as a new Proposal 6.

Thirteen (13) participants voted unanimously to adopt Proposal 4 as revised. Since there were no negative votes, Proposal 4 is now a Group Conscience Decision.

 


Proposal 5: Change the name of the ‘Etiquette Letter’ that is sent out monthly…

Group Conscience Decision: Change the name of the ‘Etiquette Letter’ that is sent out monthly by our Secretary to ‘GROW Mail List Guidelines’ and change the heading on the GROW website etiquette page.

Rationale: Business Meeting members would like to add a paragraph (or two) to our Greeter Letter #2 about giving new (or old) members options of how to deal with the volume of mail they will receive once they are subscribed.

Greeter Letter #2 is read only once by the new member and, because there is so much information contained in the Letter, these options may be overlooked or forgotten – whereas they could be reading them monthly as a reminder when the Secretary sends her message to the group.

Since the options (separate GROW email address and Digest Versions) are not really a part of Email Etiquette, they would fit in quite nicely under GROW Mail List Guidelines. The body of the Etiquette Letter would remain unchanged.

Discussion: Comments were generally positive on this proposal.

Respectfully submitted, Danna M. GROW Business Chair
 


Fourth 3-Day Agenda

During the fourth three-day session of our Business meeting, we will:

  • Continue to discuss Proposal 3.4 to decide if URLs linking to aa.org or g-r-o-w.com can be included in e-mails to the GROW mailing list.
  • Vote on Proposal 6. As we did in voting on Proposal 1, I have created two versions of this proposal. Proposal 6a.4 represents the original proposal with no changes to the language. Proposal 6b.4 which is exactly the same as Proposal 6a.4 except that the second bullet about using files and filters to manage GROW mail has been deleted.
  • Voting “I agree” on Proposal 6a.4 will mean you automatically vote “I disagree” for Proposal 6b.4. Voting “I agree” on Proposal 6b.4 will automatically mean you vote “I disagree” for Proposal 6a.4.

Discuss the new Proposal 7: Establish a Facebook page for GROW.

Respectfully considered, Danna M GROW Business Chair
 


Fourth 3-Day Period

During the fourth 3-day session of GROW’s April Business Meeting, participants voted on the proposal to revise Greeter Letter #2, continued discussion of the proposal to discourage the use of URLs in GROW e-mail, and discussed a new proposal to create a private Facebook page for GROW members.

Result of Vote on Changing Greeter Letter #2
It was proposed to revise the current introductory letter sent out by our Greeters to new members. We voted on whether to accept the proposal as submitted or accept the proposal with one change. The revised letter included suggested options for managing the volume of GROW mail and changes to make the letter easier to read.

Thirteen (13) participants voted to accept the revised letter as proposed, and three (3) voted against it. No minority views were submitted, so the proposal is now a Group Conscience decision.

Group Conscience Decision: Adopt the revised Greeter Letter #2 presented below to replace the existing form letter.

Respectfully Submitted, Danna M GROW Business Chair

Approved Greeter Letter #2:

Welcome to GROW! Now that you’re subscribed, this is one of two emails you will receive to help you start participating in our meeting right away. You might want to print these out for future reference.

Email Volume
We have found that sometimes the volume of mail through the GROW list can be overwhelming. If you experience this, you might find it very helpful to choose one of the following:

  • create and use a separate email address to reduce the confusion of mixing GROW mail with your primary email address. Please be sure to remember to let the Listkeepers know of your new address.
  • create folders for your GROW email; filters can also be set up to direct GROW mail into the GROW folder.
  • request the Digest Version (a file containing the day’s posts in a single email). If you would prefer to receive the Digest version, please contact our Listkeeper at grow-owner@oso-aa.org and she will make the change for you.

Topics
A new meeting topic is sent to everyone on the list each Sunday and we share throughout the week. On topic and Off topic shares are welcome. We ask that Off topic posts be appropriate for an AA meeting. Please note in your subject line if your share is Off topic (we usually type Off Topic: … )

Sharing
To share with the group, just address your email to grow@oso-aa.org and your post will be forwarded to all members. To ensure GROW emails do not get placed in your SPAM folder, please add this address to your Address Book.

Reply
Please do not use the “Reply to All’ option when you respond privately to another member’s post to GROW, as your personal message will also be directed to the GROW list and it will bounce to the Listkeepers.

For those using phones and tablets, be aware that the default reply option is often “Reply to All”, and double-check that you are not using “Reply to All”.

Please do not type in all CAPS, as this is considered to be yelling.

The secretary posts information about the Trusted Servants and guidelines for our email etiquette once a month. The Listkeeper (the person who makes sure the technical side of our email list works smoothly) also posts information monthly.

Web Site and Password
You’ll find lots more information on our GROW web site. The URL for GROW is: http://www.g-r-o-w.com. Some of the information is for members only, so you’ll need the following:
user name: sobertoday
password: how2484

Other
If you have questions not answered by our website information, please write to me and I’ll be sure to answer them or send your questions to someone who can.

I hope Grateful Recovering Online Women is helpful to you in your journey and growth in sobriety.

Again, welcome
[ Greeter Name ]
Grateful Recovering Online Women

 


Continued Discussion about Using URLs
The group had a second 3-day period in which to talk about whether we will discourage the use of URLs in e-mails to GROW. Discussion was continued because, as a result of the minority opinion after the initial vote, at least one participant changed her vote.

The conversation about using URLs centered on whether the proposal would apply to all URLs or allow links to oso-aa.org and g-r-o-w.com. Concerns about malware and viruses were also raised. It was pointed out that many of the form letters we send out on a regular basis contain links to these two websites.

During the fifth 3-day session, we will vote on one of three options: to discourage the use of all URLs in messages to GROW, discouraging the use of all URLs except those linking to oso-aa.org and g-r-o-w.com, or to defer a decision until further discussion takes place in the October business meeting.

New Proposal for Establishing a Private Facebook Page for GROW Members
During the fourth 3-day session, we discussed a new Proposal 7 (establish a private Facebook page for GROW). The page would offer GROW members a meeting- before- or after-the-meeting and a way to get to know each other better.

Discussions were animated, covering a wide range of arguments. Many participants supported the idea; however, many others had concerns about AA’s tradition of anonymity, how the Facebook page would be administered, whether the page would detract from the primary purpose of the mailing list, and the conditions of membership in the private page. Some members felt the page might create a clique within GROW that would damage the e-mail meeting.

Several participants who are members of private Facebook pages shared their experience with the group. The proposal’s author provided a detailed rationale that responded to most of the concerns that had been raised. A couple of participants wondered if we should not bring this question to the entire mailing list.

Several members pointed out that accepting this proposal could necessitate creating a new Trusted Servant to administer the private Facebook page and, therefore, a new job description.

With little resolution on the issue and the end of the meeting on the horizon, we will vote on three options: create a private Facebook page with no further discussion, creating a private Facebook page for a six-month trial period and revisiting the issue in the October business meeting, or deferring the discussion until the October business meeting (without creating the page).

Next Steps
During the fifth 3-day period, we will vote on the proposal to discourage the use of URLs in message to GROW and vote on how to proceed with the proposal to create a GROW Facebook page.

The business meeting guidelines state that, if a 2/3 majority has not been reached on a proposal by the 17th day of the meeting, it will be deferred for consideration during the next meeting. In this case, the 17th day is April 20. Both of these proposals will either be resolved by a 2/3 majority vote or deferred for further discussion during the October 2017 meeting.

Respectfully submitted, Danna M GROW Business Chair
 


Fifth 3-Day Agenda

During the fifth 3-day period, we will vote on the proposal to discourage the use of URLs in message to GROW and vote on how to proceed with the proposal to create a GROW Facebook page.

The business meeting guidelines state that, if a 2/3 majority has not been reached on a proposal by the 17th day of the meeting, it will be deferred for consideration during the next meeting. In this case, the 17th day is this coming Thursday, April 20. Each of these proposals will either be resolved by a 2/3 majority vote or deferred for further discussion during the October 2017 meeting.

Respectfully submitted, Danna M GROW Business Chair
 


Fourth 3-day Voting Results

About Voting on Proposal 3
Until late Wednesday, we will vote on three Proposal 3 options dealing with the use of URLs in messages to GROW. Please do not vote until you receive the separate Call for Votes.

The options are:

  • Recommend that no URLs be included in e-mails to GROW members.
  • Recommend that URLs not be included in e-mails to GROW members except URLs linking to the AA and GROW websites.
  • Defer a decision on this proposal until the October 2017 business meeting so that we can discuss the issues further.

A vote in favor of an option is an automatic vote against the other two options.

A vote against all three options will defeat the proposal, and it will not be considered further.

  • Proposal 3a.5: Recommend URLs not be used in e-mails to GROW members
  • Proposal 3b.5: Recommend URLs not be used in e-mails to GROW members except those linked to the AA (oso-aa.org) and GROW (g-r-o-w.com) websites.
  • Proposal 3c.5: Defer until the October 2017 business meeting a decision on the proposal to recommend URLs not be used in e-mails to GROW members so that further discussions can take place.

 


About Voting on Proposal 7 (Facebook)
Until late Wednesday, we will vote on three Proposal 7 options dealing with the use of URLs in messages to GROW. Please do not vote until you receive the separate Call for Votes.

The options are:

  • Create a private Facebook page for GROW members.
  • Create a private Facebook page for GROW members and revisit the proposal in the October 2017 business meeting to assess its performance and impact on the GROW e-mail meeting.
  • Defer a decision on this proposal until the October 2017 business meeting so that we can discuss the issues further.

A vote in favor of an option is an automatic vote against the other two options.

A vote against all three options will defeat the proposal, and it will not be considered further.

  • Proposal 7a.5: Establish a Facebook page for GROW.
  • Proposal 7b.5: Establish a Facebook page for GROW and revisit the proposal during the October 2017 business meeting to assess its performance and impact on the GROW e-mail meeting and decide if it should be continued.
  • Proposal 7c.5: Defer until the October 2017 business meeting a decision on the proposal to establish a private Facebook page for GROW members so that further discussions can take place.

Respectfully submitted, Danna M. GROW Business Chair

 


Proposal Adopted

Voting Results for Proposal 6a.4: Greeter Letter #2

Thirteen (13) participants voted to accept the revised letter as proposed, and three (3) voted against it. No minority views were submitted, so Proposal 6a.4 is now a Group Conscience decision.

Group Conscience Decision: Adopt the revised Greeter Letter #2 presented below to replace the existing form letter.

Respectfully Submitted, Danna M GROW Business Chair

Approved Greeter Letter #2:

Welcome to GROW! Now that you’re subscribed, this is one of two emails you will receive to help you start participating in our meeting right away. You might want to print these out for future reference.

Email Volume
We have found that sometimes the volume of mail through the GROW list can be overwhelming. If you experience this, you might find it very helpful to choose one of the following:

  • create and use a separate email address to reduce the confusion of mixing GROW mail with your primary email address. Please be sure to remember to let the Listkeepers know of your new address.
  • create folders for your GROW email; filters can also be set up to direct GROW mail into the GROW folder.
  • request the Digest Version (a file containing the day’s posts in a single email). If you would prefer to receive the Digest version, please contact our Listkeeper at grow-owner@oso-aa.org and she will make the change for you.

Topics
A new meeting topic is sent to everyone on the list each Sunday and we share throughout the week. On topic and Off topic shares are welcome. We ask that Off topic posts be appropriate for an AA meeting. Please note in your subject line if your share is Off topic (we usually type Off Topic: … )

Sharing
To share with the group, just address your email to grow@oso-aa.org and your post will be forwarded to all members. To ensure GROW emails do not get placed in your SPAM folder, please add this address to your Address Book.

Reply
Please do not use the “Reply to All’ option when you respond privately to another member’s post to GROW, as your personal message will also be directed to the GROW list and it will bounce to the Listkeepers.

For those using phones and tablets, be aware that the default reply option is often “Reply to All”, and double-check that you are not using “Reply to All”.

Please do not type in all CAPS, as this is considered to be yelling.

The secretary posts information about the Trusted Servants and guidelines for our email etiquette once a month. The Listkeeper (the person who makes sure the technical side of our email list works smoothly) also posts information monthly.

Web Site and Password
You’ll find lots more information on our GROW web site. The URL for GROW is: http://www.g-r-o-w.com. Some of the information is for members only, so you’ll need the following:
user name: sobertoday
password: how2484

Other
If you have questions not answered by our website information, please write to me and I’ll be sure to answer them or send your questions to someone who can.

I hope Grateful Recovering Online Women is helpful to you in your journey and growth in sobriety.

Again, welcome
[ Greeter Name ]
Grateful Recovering Online Women
 


Fifth 3-Day Period

During the fifth session of GROW’s 2017 Business Meeting, participants voted on two proposals. Each proposal was broken down into three options. For the most part, participants voted “I agree” on one of three options, and their vote on the other two in the set was an automatic “I disagree.” If a participant voted “I disagree” for all three options, it was considered a “No” vote for the proposal in general. The options were:

Proposal 3

  • 3a: Recommend URLs Not be used in e-mails to GROW members.
  • 3b: Recommend URLs Not be used in e-mails to GROW members except those linked to the AA and GROW websites.
  • 3c: Defer until the October 2017 business meeting a decision on the proposal to recommend URLs Not be used in e-mails to GROW members so that further discussions can take place.

 

Proposal 7

  • 7a: Establish a Facebook page for GROW.
  • 7b: Establish a Facebook page for GROW and revisit the proposal during the October 2017 business meeting to assess its performance and impact on the GROW e-mail meeting and decide if it should be continued.
  • 7c: Defer until the October 2017 business meeting a decision on the proposal to establish a private Facebook page for GROW members so that further discussions can take place.

Results of Voting
Proposal 3
“I agree” votes were cast for only two of the three options (3b and 3c). Option 3a, which was to discourage the use of all URLs in messages to the GROW mailing list did not receive a single affirmative vote. It is, therefore, considered defeated and will not be considered further.

Option 3b (discourage the use of most URLs in messages to the GROW mailing list but excluded URLs to the AA and GROW websites) received 15 “I agree” votes out of the total 17 votes cast, representing greater than the 2/3 majority needed to approve it as a Group Conscience decision.

However, there is another step before the decision becomes official. Since this option did exceed the required 2/3 majority, we will entertain minority views before the meeting closes.

Option 3c, which deferred the discussion until the October 2017 business meeting, received two “I agree” votes, which for purposes of this exercise will be considered the minority. Therefore, those who voted for option 3c are invited to share the minority view with the business meeting. If anyone changes their vote as a result of this, we will revote on the two remaining options before the meeting closes.

 

Proposal 7
“I agree” votes were cast for each of the three options (7a, 7b, and 7c). Option 7a (to establish a private Facebook page for all GROW members) received two (2) “I agree” votes, far short of the 2/3 majority requirement. Option 7a is therefore defeated and is closed.

Option 7b (to create the private GROW Facebook page now but revisit it in the October meeting to assess its performance and impact on the GROW e-mail meeting and decide if it should be continued) received nine (9) “I agree” votes out of 16 total votes, which does not meet the required 2/3 majority.

Option 7c ([not create the page now and] defer until the October 2017 business meeting a decision on the private Facebook page for GROW members so that we can further discuss the proposal) received five (5) “I agree” votes out of 16 total votes, which does not meet the required 2/3 majority.

Our Business Meeting Guidelines state that “If any item on the agenda has not reached a 2/3 majority vote by the 17th day of the business meeting, the item is tabled and held over to the next scheduled business meeting.”

Since none of the options for Proposal 7 voting received a 2/3 majority vote, we will table it until the October 2017 meeting.

In order to document our April discussions on this issue, I am listing the questions already raised that should be considered and discussed in October. If you would like to add or correct any of these, please send a note to me at dmcd.grow@zoho.com.

  • Would the private Facebook page be an “official” arm of GROW?
  • Is a Facebook page (even a private one) a violation of AA’s 11th Tradition?
  • What would be the benefits of a private Facebook page for GROW members?
  • How will the private Facebook be administered or managed?
  • Should more than one person be authorized to administer the Facebook page?
  • Do we need to create a new Trusted Servant position to administer the site?
  • If we do need a new Trusted Servants position, what will her job description say?
  • Would the private Facebook page be “advertised” on GROW’s website?
  • How will the Facebook page administrator know who is eligible for membership?
  • Will members who leave GROW be asked to leave the Facebook page?
  • How will GROW members be informed of or invited to join the private Facebook page?
  • Could the Facebook page create a clique within GROW that would make some members feel left out?
  • What would the Facebook page/group do to ensure the anonymity of all GROW members?
  • How will disputes/disagreements be handled in the Facebook group?
  • What impact would the Facebook page have on GROW’s ongoing AA e-mail meeting?
  • Can the Facebook page create any security problems for the e-mail meeting?
  • Do we need to (and how do we) measure the success or failure of the Facebook page?
  • Should we (and how do we) get feedback from GROW members on the possibility of having a private Facebook page for all members?

 

Next Steps
During the sixth 3-day session, people who voted in favor of option 3c (defer a decision on the use of URLs in messages to GROW members until the October 2017 business meeting) are invited to share their views on this issue with all business meeting participants.

If any member is persuaded by the minority opinion to change their vote, we will conduct a re-vote on both options. As outlined in the guidelines, if minority voters choose not to express their opinions, there will be no further discussion and no re-vote. Further, if there is no re-vote, Option 3b will become an official Group Conscience Decision.

After the question of how to handle URLs in e-mail messages to GROW is settled, we will adjourn the April 2017 business meeting.

Respectfully submitted, Danna M. GROW Business Chair
 


Sixth 3-Day Agenda

During the sixth 3-day session, people who voted in favor of option 3c (defer a decision on the use of URLs in messages to GROW members until the October 2017 business meeting) are invited to share their views on this issue with all business meeting participants.

If any member is persuaded by the minority opinion to change their vote, we will conduct a re-vote on both options (3b.5 and 3c.5). As outlined in the guidelines, if minority voters choose not to express their opinions, there will be no further discussion and no re-vote. Further, if there is no re-vote, Option 3b will become an official Group Conscience Decision.

After the question of how to handle URLs in e-mail messages to GROW is settled, we will adjourn the April 2017 business meeting.

Respectfully submitted, Danna M. GROW Business Chair
 


Fifth 3-day Voting Results

About Voting on Proposal 3.5
“I agree” votes were cast for only two of the three options (3b and 3c). Option 3a (to discourage the use of all URLs in messages to the GROW mailing list) did not receive an affirmative vote. It is, therefore, considered defeated and will not be considered further.

Option 3b (discourage the use of most URLs in messages to the GROW mailing list but excluded URLs to the AA and GROW websites) received 15 “I agree” votes out of the total 17 votes cast, representing greater than the 2/3 majority needed to approve it as a Group Conscience decision.

We will entertain minority views before the meeting closes. Those who voted for an option other than option 7b have three days to share their views with meeting participants. If you choose not to submit a minority opinion, please let me know.

Option 3c (defer the discussion until the October 2017 business meeting) received two “I agree” votes, which for purposes of this exercise will be considered the minority. Therefore, those who voted for option 3c are invited to share the minority view with the business meeting. If anyone changes their vote as a result of this, we will revote on the two remaining options before the meeting closes.

 

About Voting on Proposal 7.5
“I agree” votes were cast for each of the three options (7a, 7b, and 7c); however, none of the votes reached a 2/3 majority.

Option 7a (to establish a private Facebook page for all GROW members) received two (2) “I agree” votes, far short of the 2/3 majority requirement.

Option 7b (to create the private GROW Facebook page now but revisit it in the October meeting to assess its performance and impact on the GROW e-mail meeting and decide if it should be continued) received nine (9) “I agree” votes out of 17 total votes, which does not meet the required 2/3 majority.

Option 7c ([not create the page now and] defer until the October 2017 business meeting a decision on the private Facebook page for GROW members so that we can further discuss the proposal) received five (5) “I agree” votes out of 16 total votes, which does not meet the required 2/3 majority.

Our Business Meeting Guidelines state that “If any item on the agenda has not reached a 2/3 majority vote by the 17th day of the business meeting, the item is tabled and held over to the next scheduled business meeting.”

Since none of the options for Proposal 7 voting received a 2/3 majority vote, we will table the proposal until the October 2017 meeting.

In order to document our April discussions on this issue, I am listing the questions already raised that should be considered and discussed in October. If you would like to add or correct any of these, please send a note to me at dmcd.grow@zoho.com.

  • Would the private Facebook page be an “official” arm of GROW?
  • Is a Facebook page (even a private one) a violation of AA’s 11th Tradition?
  • What would be the benefits of a private Facebook page for GROW members?
  • How will the private Facebook be administered or managed?
  • Should more than one person be authorized to administer the Facebook page?
  • Do we need to create a new Trusted Servant position to administer the site?
  • If we do need a new Trusted Servants position, what will her job description say?
  • Would the private Facebook page be “advertised” on GROW’s website?
  • How will the Facebook page administrator know who is eligible for membership?
  • Will members who leave GROW be asked to leave the Facebook page?
  • How will GROW members be informed of or invited to join the private Facebook page?
  • Could the Facebook page create a clique within GROW that would make some members feel left out?
  • What would the Facebook page/group do to ensure the anonymity of all GROW members?
  • How will disputes/disagreements be handled in the Facebook group?
  • What impact would the Facebook page have on GROW’s ongoing AA e-mail meeting?
  • Can the Facebook page create any security problems for the e-mail meeting?
  • Do we need to (and how do we) measure the success or failure of the Facebook page?
  • Should we (and how do we) get feedback from GROW members on the possibility of having a private Facebook page for all members?

Respectfully submitted, Danna M. GROW Business Chair
 


Sixth 3-Day Period

During the sixth 3-day session, people who voted in favor of option 3c (defer a decision on the use of URLs in messages to GROW members until the October 2017 business meeting) are invited to share their views on this issue with all business meeting participants.

If any member is persuaded by the minority opinion to change their vote, we will conduct a re-vote on both options (3b.5 and 3c.5). As outlined in the guidelines, if minority voters choose not to express their opinions, there will be no further discussion and no re-vote. Further, if there is no re-vote, Option 3b will become an official Group Conscience Decision.

After the question of how to handle URLs in e-mail messages to GROW is settled, we will adjourn the April 2017 business meeting.

Respectfully submitted, Danna M. GROW Business Chair

 


Proposal Adopted

Voting Results for Proposal 3b.5: Recommend URLs not be used in e-mails to GROW members except those linked to the AA (oso-aa.org) and GROW (g-r-o-w.com) websites.

I’ve heard from our minority voters, and they will not submit a Minority Opinion on Proposal 3b.5; therefore, the proposal is adopted.

Group Conscience Decision: Recommend that URLs Not be used in e-mails to GROW members except those linked to AA and GROW websites.

Change the existing bullet in the monthly GROW Mail List Guidelines and on our Mail List Guidelines webpage to discourage including URLs within messages to the main list; however, URLs and links to the AA, Grapevine, and GROW websites are allowed in messages.

Approved Language (new sentence italized): We do not send attachments, chain letters, solicitations, virus alerts or announcements of non A.A. functions. We do not include URLs to sites outside GROW except links to the AA, Grapevine, and GROW websites.

Respectfully submitted, Danna M. GROW Business Chair

 


Final Summary of April 2017 Business Meeting

Our April 2017 Business Meeting was attended by 24 participants, with one woman subscribing and one woman unsubscribing during the meeting. We received semi-annual reports from these Trusted Servants: Secretary, Treasurer, Listkeepers, and GSR. Those reports are available to all members on the GROW website at http://www.g-r-o-w.com/members/biz/currentmeet.htm.

In April, nine Trusted Servant positions rotated. You can find an updated list of all Trusted Servants on GROW’s website. These are the changes in Trusted Servants:

Incoming Trusted Servant Position Outgoing
Valerie D 12 Step Listkeeper Mindy M
Susie J Birthday Listkeeper Susie J
Karen H Greeter Karrie C
Susan P Greeter Susan P
Louise H Listkeeper Nancy C
Nancy C Listkeeper Alternate Louise H
Sophie R Sponsor Listkeeper Allison McG.
Cheryl D Webkeeper Backup Laura B
Sherrie W Weekly Leader Listkeeper Elizabeth M

During the Business Meeting, participants discussed and voted on seven proposals. Six proposals were adopted as Group Conscience Decisions:

  • The Business Chair will send a list of proposals for consideration during the entire business meeting to both the main list as well as the business list.
  • Change the name of the ‘Etiquette Letter’ that is sent out monthly by our Secretary and the heading on the GROW website etiquette page to ‘GROW Mail List Guidelines.’
  • Add a recommendation that members overwhelmed by the mail volume create a separate e-mail address for GROW mail. The Approved Language will be placed:
    • prominently on the Welcome page of the Members’ section of the GROW website
    • as a new second paragraph in the Etiquette Letter (GROW Mail List Guidelines)
    • as a new second paragraph in the Etiquette webpage (GROW Mail List Guidelines)
    • Approved language: Sometimes, new members can be overwhelmed by the volume of e-mails coming through the list. If you experience this, you might find it helpful to create and use a separate email address to reduce the confusion of mixing GROW mail with your primary email address. There are many services that offer free e-mail (just search for “free e-mail accounts” on the web). Be sure to notify our Listkeeper at grow-owner@oso-aa.org if you change your address. You might also want to check out the Digest version containing the day’s posts in a single e-mail (contact our Listkeeper to get the Digest).
  • Change the GROW Mail List Guidelines Letter and on the Mail List Guidelines to discourage contacting GROW members from contacting other members without their prior permission on social media (e.g., Facebook, Twitter, etc.).
    Approved Language (new text in italics): In keeping with AA’s 11th Tradition and out of respect for anonymity, we do not: 1) include more than this mail list address on anything we post to the group; or 2) forward posts outside the list without getting permission from the original sender and deleting all identifying information; or 3) contact members on social media sites without their prior permission.
  • Adopt the revised Greeter Letter #2 presented below to replace the existing form letter (see entire revised letter at the bottom of this message).
  • Recommend that URLs Not be used in e-mails to GROW members except those linked to the AA, Grapevine, and GROW websites.
    Approved Language (new sentence in italics): Amend the existing bullet in the Etiquette Letter to add a sentence as follows: “We do not send attachments, chain letters, solicitations, virus alerts or announcements of non A.A. functions. We do not include URLs to sites outside GROW except links to the AA, Grapevine, and GROW websites.

A proposal to establish a private GROW Facebook page was presented to the group during the meeting. It generated a lot of spirited discussion. Participants voted on options that included creating the page now and creating the page now but assessing its success at the October Business Meeting. After voting on the options, none achieved the required 2/3 majority; therefore, the proposal will be the first item on our agenda at GROW’s October 2017 Business Meeting.

 

**********

Approved Greeter Letter #2:

Welcome to GROW! Now that you’re subscribed, this is one of two emails you will receive to help you start participating in our meeting right away. You might want to print these out for future reference.

Email Volume
We have found that sometimes the volume of mail through the GROW list can be overwhelming. If you experience this, you might find it very helpful to choose one of the following:

  • create and use a separate email address to reduce the confusion of mixing GROW mail with your primary email address. Please be sure to remember to let the Listkeepers know of your new address.
  • create folders for your GROW email; filters can also be set up to direct GROW mail into the GROW folder.
  • request the Digest Version (a file containing the day’s posts in a single email). If you would prefer to receive the Digest version, please contact our Listkeeper at grow-owner@oso-aa.org and she will make the change for you.

Topics
A new meeting topic is sent to everyone on the list each Sunday and we share throughout the week. On topic and Off topic shares are welcome. We ask that Off topic posts be appropriate for an AA meeting. Please note in your subject line if your share is Off topic (we usually type Off Topic: … )

Sharing
To share with the group, just address your email to grow@oso-aa.org and your post will be forwarded to all members. To ensure GROW emails do not get placed in your SPAM folder, please add this address to your Address Book.

Reply
Please do not use the “Reply to All’ option when you respond privately to another member’s post to GROW, as your personal message will also be directed to the GROW list and it will bounce to the Listkeepers.

For those using phones and tablets, be aware that the default reply option is often “Reply to All”, and double-check that you are not using “Reply to All”.

Please do not type in all CAPS, as this is considered to be yelling.

The secretary posts information about the Trusted Servants and guidelines for our email etiquette once a month. The Listkeeper (the person who makes sure the technical side of our email list works smoothly) also posts information monthly.

Web Site and Password
You’ll find lots more information on our GROW web site. The URL for GROW is: http://www.g-r-o-w.com. Some of the information is for members only, so you’ll need the following:
user name: sobertoday
password: how2484

Other
If you have questions not answered by our website information, please write to me and I’ll be sure to answer them or send your questions to someone who can.

I hope Grateful Recovering Online Women is helpful to you in your journey and growth in sobriety.

Again, welcome
[ Greeter Name ]
Grateful Recovering Online Women

 

**********

 

Ladies, thank you so much for your participation!
The meeting is now adjourned. (Friday, April 21, 2017 at 1:01 PM)

Respectfully submitted, Danna M. GROW Business Chair