November 2020

Steering Committee

Reports

Each Zone will have a Zoom meeting on Monday, December 14, 2020 at 7 pm

For all Zone and Committee Zoom Information see the spreadsheet included with this report.

Chairperson’s Report from the month of November 2020

I chaired the Steering Committee meeting on Wednesday, November 4th. New members of the Steering Committee rotated into their positions. I look forward to serving with all of them in the coming year.

I attended the CPC, Website, Archives, Treatment, Unity, Finance and Special Events meetings this month. I also attended the Philly Zone meeting. I want to thank all the Committee Directors for their serve to SEPIA and the fellowship.

New Zoom host accounts were created for all the Zone coordinators for their monthly zone meetings. This gives each zone the ability to have their meeting independently. All Committee and Zone meetings will be meeting virtually for the foreseeable future.

Please consider sending individual and group contributions to SEPIA and GSO in New York. Due to the current situation, GSO has had to dip into their prudent reserve twice in the last six months. SEPIA had to cancel their largest fundraising event, the Round-Up in Cape May, last April. Go to GSO’s website www.aa.org and SEPIA’s website aasepia.org for details on how to contribute. Thanks.

Rich M.

Chairperson

Vice-Chairperson’s Report from the month of November 2020

I attended the Bucks County Zone, and Steering Committee meetings this month.

Also attended the EPGSA Convention and Assembly, where a new panel of officers was elected.

Had conversations with Area 59 Alternate Delegate Elect, Pete B. and Fred S. regarding their experiences organizing and providing tech support for the first EPGSA online convention.

I also chaired my first Special Events Committee on November 30th. Please see pages 9 and 10 for minutes from that meeting.

Some highlights from that meeting include the following:

Share-A-Day:

Will be held Sunday, February 21st online

Planning meeting is Sunday, January 10th at 12 Noon

Online room has been secured and flyer with more info is available

Round Up:

Scheduled for April 16-18, 2021 (probably online)

Planning meeting is Sunday, January 31st at 12 Noon

Online room has been secured and flyer with more info is available

Treasurer’s/Finance Committee Report from Thursday, November19, 2020

November 19, 2020 on Zoom – 842 4075 5543 password SEPIA

Open meeting with the Serenity Prayer

Attendees:

Rich Mitchell, Donna S - Montco, Katie M - Phila, Maria F, Matt T – Bucks, Gary T – Asst Treasurer, Mark P - Archives

Read Tradition 1 – no comments

Read Concept 1 – no comments

Review Balance Sheet as of 10/31/20

Review Income Statement for last fiscal year – noted we ended in the back by 18k may change after the audit

Old Business: None

New Business: – A letter from a foundation sent a check for $2500. The funds came from the foundation talked about sending the money back. Target also sending matching gifts that will be returned. Auditor will not be working out of the SEPIA office they will access QB via team viewer. Workers comp audit is coming down the pike. A letter will be send demanding a refund for the merch from the round up. A lawyer will be copied on the letter.

Close with I am Responsible at 7:32

Bank Balances (as of 11/30/2020):

PNC Checking balance:	$36,595.55

PNC Money Market:	$10,000.00 (November Monthly Interest: $.09)

Franklin Mint Credit Union:	$158,610.06 (November Monthly Interest: $38.94)

PayPal Account balance:	$999.10

Petty Cash:	$343.20

Total:	$206,547.91

Office Manager’s Report from the month of November 2020

We rely on the fellowship to provide us with any meeting changes that might occur. Please let us know if there are any changes with your meeting a.s.a.p.

SEPIA posted a notice for a Part-Time Staff Assistant in the December, 2020 Newsletter.

SEPIA asking anyone needing Spanish literature to contact us.

SEPIA Office is working with our accountants to complete Taxes for the FY 2019-2020.

Inventory is just about complete and will be merged into one list for Quickbooks.

SEPIA working on getting all keys back and will be contacting folks who have not done so yet.

Respectfully submitted, Maria F., Office Manager

Archives Committee Report from Tuesday, November 10, 2020

Meeting opened at 7:00

Opened with the Serenity Prayer

Read Tradition (Unity of Groups) and Concept 1(Collective Conscience of AA)

Attendees: Director: Jerry McT., Director of Archives: Mark P, Chairperson: Rich M, Bucks Liaison: Erik, Chester Liaison: Don F., Delco Liaison-NP, Montco Liaison: Denny L., Philly Liason: Spencer, Members: Fran G, Ann Marie S.G (Director of Prisons), Scott M.,

Liaison Reports:

Bucks: Erik E (HG: Friday Happy Hour)

Chester: Don F – a new Liaison was elected at the zone meeting last night but not present

Delaware: Not present

Montgomery: Denny L – will get Montco Group History Book from James (HG: Narberth Midday)

Philadelphia: Spencer – (HG East Falls BB) Working on his home groups History and Covid update

Director of Archives: Jerry M- Celebrated 22 yrs of sobriety on 9/27! Congrats! Jerry has been working some during the week at the office updating Jimmy Burwell materials. Odd sized Jim B material is being scanned outside of office and put on a thumb drive and then put on computer.

Archives Director Report: Mark P asked questions about committee – discussions further on. No one has requested a showing (now that meetings are starting to open up)

*Taping of Old Timers: Ann Marie has taped Lou B. over the phone. None have been done in the office which is still closed except for staff members. A release is being put on the website for people who are taping from their phones. Also a verbal release is acceptable.

*DVD Showings None:

*Group Histories: Keep announcing for the histories. They can be emailed to Jerry or Mark at archivesdirector@aasepia.org or to Jerry at archivist@aasepia.org

*Upcoming Tapings: None

*Saturday Preservation Work: None

Old Business:

The committee decided against zoom interviews and will do in person or phone interviews. Ken D. (past delegate) wrote an article regarding what we can and cannot do on zoom. (Need to locate)

There has to be release form signed or verbal permission to record. A release form from Jerry will be given to Maria at office to be uploaded to website.

DVD redo is on hold until further notice.

New Business:

An inventory of specific Archival equipment is as follows: Large and small screen, DVD player, projector, small recorders.

Ann Marie would like copies of certain recordings to send to prisons so they have some AA to listen to. Bucks County has CD’s that they are giving to Prisons.

Continue asking for group histories for those groups that don’t have one. All liaisons should have been given the book from the former liaisons. Check them and see what groups are missing.

New book has been started for Covid histories and stories.

Next meeting will be Tuesday, December 8th @7:00pm via zoom. 832 4414 8913 PW SEPIA

Meeting closed at 7:50

Mark P Director of Archives

CPC Committee Report from Monday, November 2, 2020

CPC Report November 2020

Chaired by Natasha M. - Director

Prepared by Michael L.

Attendees:

Frazier, Tony S, Dave T, Rich M. Lisa C., John S. Brian Q. Jay, Alan S., Loretta L M., John E., Marianne, Jon H., Nick S., Ed J. Michael L. Jason H. Lorie C. Nate G. Mary Ann C. John Z.

Open with the Serenity Prayer

Notes

Introductions

Jon H. Introduction… continuing to serve the committee

Rich M. Introduction… continuing to serve the committee

Dave T. Hardcore group - Eddystone - 8/26/18 - this is first meeting.

Tony S. New Beginnings - 12/17/18 -

Frazier - Top o the hill - Chestnut hill - referred by Loretta L M. First Meeting - 2 years of sobriety

Lisa C. - 9/10/19 - Sobriety in Warminster - First Meeting of CPC

John S. Sunrise Semester 10/14/19 - Second CPC Meeting - Ready to take students

Brian - New Freedom

Loretta L. M. 1/6/1990 - Top of the hill - Bill S referred. First​	CPC Meeting.​

Alan S. Sunrise Semester - 5.18/2002 -

Jay Friday Night Beg 8/6/13 - have been a zone coordinator/liason - here as an escort

Nick S. West Town Friday night - 10/14/18 - 2nd CPC Meeting and Shadowed Alan

Ed J - Southampton bb meeting - 04/13/86 - 2nd meeting of CPC

Jason H - 1/12/18 - Newtown Beginners - First CPC Meeting

John E. Narberth Midday Group - 9/10/17 -

Nate G. Wed Night men’s malvern - IGR - 2nd CPC meeting

Marianne - Narbert midday - 1/6/96 - 2nd CPC Meeting - Shadowed John

Marianne C. Southampton sunday night bb… IGR. June 10th 2017, Bucks Zone CPC Liason

John Z. Glenside new freedom - 7/12/12

Wit M. We are not saints - 6/21/85 - cpc chaperone -	Jimba - 4/30/19 - Shadowed Mike L. First CPC Meeting -	Loretta L. M.

Tamatha - Kennett Sq Group

Lorie Cannon - Drexel Coordinator - Program Director FPC1 @ Drexel -	Feedback has been fabulous.

Students enjoyed escorting sessions

Enlightened about the process

Learned a lot about aa… sharing as future physicians

Each student will write a paper on the experience

Reading emails - personal outreach - so much good stuff to say - very grateful

Agenda

CPC Handbook Review -	What is CPC?

Jon sharing about the visit to Temple Tuttleman

4th year Jon has done the presentation

Small group

Elective study under Pete dimario. -	Expert on addiction

Jon gave a history and background

Natasha shared about AA

Students gave great, positive feedback

Very successful

Looking forward to doing it again… hopefully on campus.

Drexel Program Engagement - Human Advocacy program -	John Z

First year student returned - came back for an extended period.

She attended meetings.

We have 6 students doing that… attending meetings all semester and meeting with John and his crew.

John Z, Brian Q, and Natasha, and Nadia will be with the students for this semester.

CPC

Who we are and what we do.

Mike Explained what CPC is… how it works and what happens.

Rich M. shared his experience with what happens at the meeting.

Asks the students if they’ve experienced alcoholism… first hand.

Important to open that door - to see if there’s feedback on personal experience.

Engage the students before and after the meeting.

Sometimes they’re shy about talking before… they open up more afterwards.

We also give presentations on stages to educators, etc.

Natasha M.

We give professionals information about how they can help the sick and suffering aa… patients, clients, etc.

It is our responsibility to carry this message.

Planting the seed of hope.

Workbook Information -	Pg 5

Review

1971 CPC was formed.

Pg. 6 - for next month

We’ll read next month starting on pg 6.

We’ll send you the template with the items to be discussed with the students.

Provide a consistent experience.

Natasha will send a new email template to the newcomers.

How it Works

12 Steps & Traditions -	Tony found a new pamphlet -	Brief guide to AA. -	Eligibility

1 year of sobriety

2 CPC Monthly Meetings

1 Shadow

Feedback from the temple presentation -	Observation from students

Felt very religious

Reminder to ensure that you tell the students that this is not a religious group.

We should suggest that the students attend MORE than 1 meeting.

Try to look for similarities - rather than differences

We should discuss the fact that AA is spiritual, not religious.

Marianne

Seems to work well if we discuss with the students prior to the meeting

Explain that they will hear mention of God - but it’s spirituality - choosing your own concept of a higher power.

Wit

International Students - I try to do a bit of research into their home country to better understand how AA is positioned in their country.

Pakistan, for example… mentioning that this disease does not discriminate.

Natasha

Awesome start.

Huge Thanks to all involved.

November students

Michael Will coordinate

Pairing

Dave T will shadow Alan S.

Frazier will shadow Jon H. - 1 group - Loretta will shadow Tamatha - Lisa C: John Z.

Jason H. Shadow Jay

Jimba will shadow Rich M. 1 group

John S. paired with Wit

Ed J paired with Brian Q.

November Meetings

Marianne

Monday evening - brought students to the West Town meeting

Loretta needs a handbook.

Interphones Committee Report from November, 2020

There was no meeting held this month. We have 6 vacancies.

Next meeting will be 12/30/20.

Thank you.

Yours sincerely

Karen S.

Prison Committee Report from Thursday, November 5, 2020

﻿

The online Sepia Prison Committee Meeting took place 11/5/20, where members further explored new ways to support five county outreach to inmates during the pandemic. Anne Marie S-G was welcomed as the 2020-2021 director of Prison Committee and Carolyn C as the alternate director.

Participation in the temporary penpals project (during the pandemic) is ongoing and we are grateful to prison committee members, and zone liaisons for their outreach. All five prison liaison positions have been filled for 2020/2021. Grapevine articles continue to be mailed to various lockups for inmates when available. Old grapevines are needed as well. Big Books continue to be distributed and when used literature and books are donated we pass those on to facilities. There continues to be a spirit of cooperation among our members to maintain the connection with AA members and inmates. We've reached out with PI for PSA's for SCI Phoenix to review. We’re planning to provide Holiday Cheer at the request of the volunteer director. Philly volunteer director asked that AA help out but we’re not certain due to increase in Covid cases how that will go. CDs were obtained from groups and members; the hope is for them to be played over the inmates channel. We are exploring. Bags of joy will be made for inmates in facilities willing to participate. Words of encouragement will also be sent to inmates written by committee members, liaisons and others.

Bring us old literature for donation, and ideas to the Dec 3 online prison committee meeting.

Respectfully submitted, Carolyn C, Alternate Director of SEPIA Prison Committee

Public Information Committee Report from Wednesday, November 18, 2020

Wednesday, November 18/ 7:00 PM / Zoom ID: 882 5844 9206 - Password: SEPIA

Attendees: Scott, Jeremy, Brian, Chris, Emma (New-Phila. Zone), Lori, Glenn, and Jim (New-Phila. Zone)

Minutes

Opened with The Serenity Prayer, Welcome & Introductions.

Traditions - Read and discuss Tradition 1

Public Information Workbook - Read and discuss pages 29-30

Old/Ongoing Business: Review of new “Rack Card” and Homeless Shelter information mailing

New Business:

Next initiatives:

Outreach to Middle and or High Schools

Lori and Emma will do a little research at their local schools, reach out to superintendents and such. See what the need may be, how can we help?

Concern that “politics” from school districts could hamper ability to reach out.

Need to narrow down scope of what we want to achieve, will depend on feedback from discovery from Lori and Emma.

Outreach to College and Universities

Each member will contact a college or university, is there a digital platform that we could potentially post or “Rack Card” or “Wawa Flyer”?

Scott-Widener, Jeremy-West Chester, Lori-Neumann, Glenn-Holy Family, Chris-Ursinus, Brian-St. Joseph, Jim-TBD, and Emma-TBD

Patch AA Army

Table until January

Close with “I Am Responsible” no later than 8 PM

Next Meeting & Contacts

Wednesday, December 16/ 7:00 PM / Via Zoom / Zoom ID: 882 5844 9206 / Password: SEPIA

Scott B., Director of Public Information, publicinfodirector@aasepia.org

Jeremy S., Assistant Director of Public Information, publicinfoasstdirector@aasepia.org

Special Events Committee Report from Monday, November 30, 2020

Meeting opened at 7:03 pm with the Serenity Prayer

Introductions:

18 attendees, including Chair and Co-chair.

Last month’s minutes were reviewed and accepted.

Old Business:

Share A Day:

University of the Sciences Center is not allowing Outsiders on Campus Until Spring Semester

It will be a virtual event Feb 21st is the date

Planning Meeting Sunday January 10, 2021 at 12PM. Approx. 2-3 hours duration- Rich will set up a zoom room. Fran will make a flyer.

Bring some ideas to our next meet

Round Up Discussions:

Still scheduled for Apr 16-18, 2021

Decision in early January 2021 but likely not to be an in-person event

Larry will choose a director for the roundup

Roundup Planning Meeting January 31, 2021 at 12PM. Approx. 2-3 hours duration -Rich will set up a zoom room. Fran will make a flyer.

We need a theme by next month’s Special Events meeting then launch the logo contest. Rich will check for past themes and Jay will email to Special Events.

Round Up-- if Virtual

How many meetings will we have? Just speakers or additional types?

Will we still sell T-Shirts, Sweatshirts, etc. as a fundraiser?

New business:

T-Shirt Company - non responsive to request for return of monies or of a payment plan

Discussion - Should we send them a letter offering them a chance to repay? Since their reliability is in question it might not be good to offer them 2021 business. Rich will send a letter offering a payment plan.

Lacking a response we may need to seek legal assistance

Fundraising Ideas

Bring ideas to next meeting- a Covid Mask with logo was suggested

Breakfast in Fall of 2021?

Next Special Events Meeting December 28, 2020

Close with Responsibility Pledge – 7:45pm

Treatment Facilities Committee Report from November 16, 2020

SEPIA Treatment Facilities Committee – Monthly Meeting Report: November 16, 2020

Chaired by: Jim B., Director	Attendance:	Victoria L., Assistant Director

Pierre A., Chesco Liason

Bill P., Montco Zone Coordinator

Rich M., Chair, Steering Committee

Michelle L., Guest

Absent: Representatives from Bucks, Delco, Philadelphia Counties

Opening: Responsibility Pledge

Reports:

Director (Jim B.):	Brief review of October committee meeting: as commitments open, what	procedural changes need to be in place; conversation about our safety	regarding COVID protocol?

Asst. Director (Victoria):	Suggested structured meeting format.

Montco (Bill):	Need to fill Treatment Coordinator Liaison role. Open discussion with Michelle	about her interest in the position and the roles/responsibilities of it.

Chesco (Pierre):	Suggests increased engagement with Bridging the Gap program. He has started	discussion with Ralph O. (Area 59) - they have a well-established program in	place and we are welcome to join it. Pierre will invite Ralph to join our	December Committee meeting.

Philadelphia (Jim):	The Sunday Breakfast Rescue Mission has contacted SEPIA office inquiring about	an AA meeting at their facility. Jim will coordinate with Philadelphia Committee	Liaison and follow-up.

Open discussion about AA Literature purchases at SEPIA (for the committee) and logistics to deliver it, Jim will investigate with Maria and report to the committee next month.

Recite Serenity Prayer; Motion to Close; Next meeting 12/21/2020 7:00 pm.

Respectfully submitted by Jim B. 11/23/2020

Unity Committee Report from Tuesday, November 17, 2020

Attendance: Chip D., Steve Mc., Paul (Asst. Dir.), Rich M. (Sepia Chair), Sean (Bucks Co.), Kate A. (Phila. Co.), Don F. (Chester Co.)

Opened with Serenity Prayer

Introductions of zone liaisons and committee members.

Group read Tradition 1 and Concept 1. Members offered brief comments and discussion.

Old Business:

Letter was submitted for November’s issue of Interviews.

New Business:

Discussed essence of Unity committee for new members/liaisons.

Explained what a unity pitch looks like and how to promote unity pitches at the various zones.

Received a unity pitch request for the Oxford Conscious Contact group . After discussion, group agreed to offer available dates of December 6th or 13th. Chip will be lead contact for this.

Closed with “I am Responsible” pledge.

Submitted by Chip D.

Website/Tech Committee Report from Wednesday, November 4, 2020

SEPIA Web Tech Meeting – November 2020

November 4th, 5:30pm

https://zoom.us/j/2151234215?pwd=WjZMeExzU1ErUUU0OUpxS1BpRmc2QT09

Zoom Meeting Code: 215-1234-215

Zoom Participant Password: 12341234

Attendees: Scott, Jeremy, Kris, Sam, Tim, Steve, Kevin, Elaine, Maria, Mark, and Rich

Old Business/Follow Up:

Different location for all the online meetings being created, avoid use of SEPIA address.

Issues have arisen. Virtual meetings (only) are no longer showing up in Meeting Guide due to “North Pole” location designation.

Tim and Josh have completed a workaround, clearing go ahead from GSO and Meeting Guide APP. Code will be written and new features will be popping up soon. Great new upgrade coming!

A concerted effort is needed by the fellowship to address the accuracy of group meetings. Critical!

Still need help from the fellowship – Scott to announce at November SC Meeting.

ANY IMPROVEMENTS? Maria and Kris remarked that the fellowship has responded, calling in changes.

Google Search Performance (Sam H.)

Google Key Word Search is not friendly for the alcoholic seeking help.

Tim remarked that we have a very valid problem, but as a nonprofit may not have the resources to compete with sophisticated for profit websites.

Sam suggested the possibility of using $10,000 grant from Google to explore opportunities to increase SEPIA search viability. Sam to send additional information and more review will be taken before any action.

New Business/General Discussion:

Tim is reviewing “Wind Stream” as a possible new virtual platform for SEPIA. - Follow up in December

Cyber Security: Norton or TechSoup (Sam)

Suggested to run out agreement on Norton and rely on the baked in features of Windows for security. Currently, Norton causing more issues than benefits. – Complete No Follow up

Meeting Finder drop down search by “county” versus “everywhere” – Steve N.

Current drop down is the most feasible. Probably serves 98% of the greater good.

Discussion about the creation of a “tutorial” on how to use search features on the SEPIA website, short “show me” video. – Follow up in December

Bucks County Zone Meeting Minutes from Monday, November 9, 2020

Bucks County Zone Meeting

November 9th 2020

Mike called the meeting to order at 7:01pm

Opened with the Serenity Prayer

Read Tradition 1

Read Concept 1

Attendance:

# 30: 21 IGRs, 1 Alternate, 8 other

Introductions & Welcome New IGRs

Sean from Sunrisers Group

Benjamin from Sweet Surrender

Anniversaries:

Mike 4 years

Bob 25 years

Dan 1 year

No group Anniversaries

Mike requested that all attendees enter their current contact info in the chat so that the list can be updated for Zone and S.E.P.I.A.

Guest Reports

Gary Assistant Treasurer

S.E.P.I.A. financial Picture is good

Budget finalized

Company match for contributions violates 7th tradition

Larry Vice Chairperson

Share A Day in February 2021 will be virtual, info to come

Special Events: Round Up undetermined at this date. Decision for live vs virtual will be determined in January 2021

Need theme and logo for Round Up

Deadline for theme submissions is the November Special Events meeting when the selection will take place

Deadline for logo submissions is the December Special Events meeting when the selection will take place

Maria Office Manager

Keep S.EP.I.A. updated with meeting information and current passwords

Office is open with curbside pickup

Office will be closed on Thanksgiving

Office will be working from home on Friday November 27th. Orders placed on Friday will be processed on Monday the 30th

Liaisons

Archives Erik

Meets the 2nd Tuesday of the month on Zoom

Looking for group histories

Looking for individual histories of those with 20+ years of sobriety

Looking for pandemic stories from newcomers

CPC MaryAnn

Meets the 1st Monday of the month on Zoom

John H. stepped down as Director

Natasha is Director, Mike is Asst. Director

Escort health care professionals to open meetings

Virtual presentation was done at Temple University for psychiatry students

Drexel has a health advocacy group of students that has expanded. Students attend an open meeting for one year to develop a better understanding of A.A.

Finance Andrea

Meets the 3rd Thursday of the month on Zoom

Matt is liaison for Finance committee but was unable to attend Zone meeting

Andrea was present for the Finance committee meeting last month & confirmed Gary's report at this meeting

Additional discussion concerning 7th tradition and anonymity through sites as PayPal, Zelle, Venmo etc. to be determined by G.S.O. recommendation

Interphone Helene

Meets on the last Wednesday of even months on Zoom

Need volunteers for H.U.S.S.H.H.

Public Information Joe

Meets 3rd Wednesday of the month on Zoom

New rack card

Doing homeless shelter outreach

Young people project

Special Events Yolanda

Meets the last Monday of the month on Zoom

Yolanda is the Special Events liaison but was unable to attend the Zone meeting

Mike confirmed Larry's report and added that hoodies, t-shirts are still available from Round Up

Prisons Lina

Meets 1st Thursday of the month on Zoom

Needs a male alternate liaison

Still not able to go in due to restrictions

Requesting letters with words of encouragement

Creating little bags of joy with literature and small items

John offered old Grapevines

Treatment Dom

Meets 3rd Monday at 7pm

Developing a list for mass e-mail or text to reach all reps

Link for available commitments provided in the chat function

Daybreak is quarantined for November & may be in December. Contact facility for up to date info

Exploring options that reach all IGRs to minimize issues with Droid/iPhone incompatibilities

Unity

No report: Liaison spot still open

Meets 3rd Tuesday of the month

Buckypaa Rob

No events on calendar at present time

Looking to have conference in Bucks when able

Old Business:

Changing of the guards for the upcoming year

New Business:

Need Unity liaison, Unity purpose described to attendees

Sean offered to step in as Unity liaison and accepted with unanimous vote

Alternate liaison positions tabled until December meeting due to connection issues during Zoom

Meeting adjourned at 8:11pm

Closed with the responsibility statement

Chester County Zone Meeting Minutes from Monday, November 9, 2020

Chester County Zone	November 9, 2020

Meeting is being held via Zoom

Opened with Serenity Prayer

Meeting Chairperson: Steve M.

Meeting Secretary: Nick S.

New Rep WELCOME – Chris from Daylesford Abbey Group taking over for Brian, Greg N from Friday Night Step

17 IGRs present

0 Alternate IGR present

11 Visitors

Anniversaries: Nick S – 2 years Chris B – 13 years

Tradition 11 – Read by Steve Mc

Concept 11 – Read by Steve Mc

October minutes were approved

Visitor for Steering Committee

Natasha, Rachel, Mark & Victoria were here.

Natasha, the Director of CPC, was welcomed to her first zone meeting. CPC has been very active. Meet first Monday of each month on zoom. 7-10 new volunteers for CPC. She explained how CPC functions. They escort Drexel med students to AA meetings to spread awareness of alcoholism. They see about 44 students each month.

Rachel is the new secretary for SEPIA. There has been missing passwords on the website for AA meetings. Submit any passwords for meetings so that the newcomer can find a meeting. There is also a part time staff assistant position posting that is going up to begin after January 1st, 2020. Contact Maria the office manager if interested. Her email is manager@aasepia.org. They are trying to sell Spanish literature. The office will be closed November 26th and 27th. On the 27th, the staff can be reached by email.

Mark, the new archives director, was here. He attended the last archives meeting and there was not much going on. Update group history based on COVID-19 information. Fill out form on the website. Email the form to archivesdirector@aasepia.org or the archivist@aasepia.org.

Victoria, the assistant treatment director, stated that not much is going on. Most treatment facilities are closed. No facilities are open to get commitments into. The focus across the counties is to make sure that anyone who can take a meeting into a facility is well informed about what they are walking in to. Some facilities are not following CDC guidelines. Any alcoholic that has the opportunities to go in person needs to be informed on their safety. Philadelphia and Bucks counties have some places opening up. The next meeting is Monday November 16th.

District Announcements:

District 30: Martha V stated that she does not have a lot of information. This coming Friday, Saturday & Sunday will be the EPGSA. Officers at the district level will be elected. Potential combination of PI and CPC will be at the area level.

District 38: Not present

District 44: Claire B was present. She reinforced what Martha stated about EPGSA. It’s going to be virtual for the first time ever. It is free on zoom. There will be multiple workshops on service, grapevine, etc. Two keynote speakers. Saturday is voting. Can only participate in the voting if you are a voting member. Mike O asked if District 44 was in the West Chester Borough. Claire said yeah.

District 56: Gwen B is the ADCM for district 56. She has no news other than next Monday November 16th is the meeting and they will be doing the voting. It will be her second to last meeting for District 56. Tonight at 11:59 is the last chance to register to vote for district.

District 29: Not present

Zone Announcements:

Finance Committee: Mike O was present.

Dominic, a CPA, was unable to join meeting.

Discussed Tradition 10 and Concept 10.

Approved balance sheet and contributions were above 2020 budget.

SEPIA received money back from previous landlord, which was $2500.00.

Elections were held and people are moving up.

SEPIA will no longer accept matching gift contributions from outside organizations. Office Manager Maria brought to their attention that some of the contributions had to be reviewed because they may have violated the 7th tradition, which states that every AA group ought to be fully self-supporting declining outside contributions.

Interphones: Sue was present.

She missed the meeting and has nothing to report.

Treatment: Pierre was present.

He was impressed with how many people are in a good mood tonight.

Not much has happened in treatment facilities.

Reinforced what Victoria was speaking about in regard to the guidelines on how to enter a treatment facility.

He will encourage to draw up a statement on the guidelines.

Maria found Ralph from York County for “Bridging the Gap.”

Bridging the gap has been a program of AA for about 45 years. When patients leave treatment facilities it is possible for an AA to meet them as a contact, take them to meetings, and talk to them about AA in the area, etc. Some of the best Bridging the Gap was out in Utah. They examined the practices and began to adopt some of their methods into Area 59. Bridging the gap committee sends people into treatment centers and does a 10-minute formal presentation about Bridging the Gap. There is a real protocol they are trying to get across. They give the patients a sign-up paper if they want to have a contact. At the next institution AA meeting, the papers go back to AA group and a computer program matches the data together, AA contact and patient.

PI: Chris B was present.

Explained what Public Information committee is: simple sign, radio and television shows, one drunk carrying the message to another drunk.

Met on October 21st via zoom.

SEPIA meeting guide is useless. The RACK CARD from the SEPIA website is the new and improved meeting guide.

They have just completed an informational mailing to over 100 shelters in the SEPIA area with the RACK CARDS.

Meet next Wednesday November 18th.

Special Events: Need to fill position.

Steve filled in.

Share-a-day at University of the Sciences is in limbo for a venue.

They have been in contact with the hotel in Cape May regarding the Round-up. They are putting off a decision until January.

Men’s Prison: George was present.

No new information on prisons.

Women’s Prison: Gwen was present.

Susan will be taking over soon for Women’s Prison.

Gwen emailed Brett Weaver, the contact at Chester County Prison, and asked if they wanted a case of Big Books. No response.

Archives: Don was present.

District 30 has done a great job writing up how reports were handling COVID.

SEPIA Service Team Archives Form about COVID

CPC: Covered by Natasha in the beginning.

Unity: Need to fill position. Steve M. gave brief report. First request for a Unity Pitch since COVID-19 started in March was requested by Justine B. at the Oxford Conscience Contact Group. Unity Committee meets on November 17th (3rd Tuesday of each month) and will work with her to schedule the Pitch.

Chester County Committee of Young People in AA: Kelsey was here.

Flyers were sent out.

Check your email for flyer.

Zone Coordinator: Steve was present

Thanked everyone for helping him stay sober one day at a time.

Everyone has been doing a great job.

He has nothing to add.

Talked about the Alternate Zone coordinator.

Alternate Zone: No report. Need to fill position.

Old Business:

Need to fill a couple of Zone positions.

Alternate Zone Coordinator position was filled by Joe W.

Alternate Secretary position was filled by Greg N.

Archives Coordinator position was filled by Martha V. (Don F. rotated out)

Special Events Coordinator position was filled by Mike W.

Unity Coordinator position was filled by Don F.

Although the Treatment Facilities Coordinator position is technically open, Pierre has agreed to stay on to help someone with Treatment Facility Coordinator. Once the facility opens up it’s a lot of organization.

New Business:

None

In Closing:

Closed with the Responsibility Pledge.

Thank you for your service. Our next meeting is Monday, December 14, 2020.

Delaware County Zone Meeting Report from Monday, November 9, 2020

NOTE: DUE TO THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC, THIS MEETING WAS HELD USING THE ZOOM MEETING APP.

Zone Coordinator, Bob D., opened with the Serenity prayer at 7:00PM.

Attendance:

IGRs: 12	Alt. w/o rep: 1	Alt. w/rep: 0

Steering Committee Members: 2

District Reps: 0	Guests: 1	New reps: 1

Tradition 11 was read.

Minutes from October were approved.

Steering Committee Member Reports:

Jim B., Director, Treatment Committee

Starting to see some treatment facilities opening up and the transition to fulfilling those commitments have been impacted by safety concerns at the facilities.

Jim asked that any safety issues or questions regarding be directed to our Treatment Liaison, Seth F.

Committee is still looking at other ways of carrying the message to treatment facilities that are not opening up for in-person commitments.

The Treatment Committee meets on the third Monday of each month at 7:00 PM. Zoom information is provided in Interviews.

Jay F., Assistant Secretary

Jay asked for all IGRs to make sure the information for their groups is updated on the SEPIA website. There have been reports of people trying to attend meetings both in person and on zoom and the information is incorrect.

The SEPIA office will be closed on Thanksgiving. Literature orders will be processed the following Monday.

The office is looking for a part-time assistant.

LIAISON REPORTS:

UNITY - (John S. - alternate OPEN)

-- John gave report.

The mission statement has been updated on the website.

Unity pitches are available via zoom. Pitches are not available for in-person meetings at this time. If your group is interested in a Unity pitch, contact John or a member of the Unity Committee at unitydirector@sepia.org.

Unity Committee meets the third Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m.

ARCHIVES - (Gloria B. - alternate OPEN)

-- Gloria gave the report.

Not much going on other than the Committee is still looking for information from the groups relating their experiences with COVID-19. Submissions can be made to archivesdirector@aasepia.org or your zone liaison.

Anyone with over 20 years or more who is interested in doing a video recording their story, please contact Gloria.

Committee meets the second Tuesday of the month at 7pm and the third Saturday at 9am.

CPC - (Dave T., - alternate OPEN)

-- Dave gave the report.

Dave explained what the CPC Committee does.

Currently introducing Drexel students to meetings on zoom. Providing information on what to expect, what not to do, etc.

Dave will be looking into the possibility of reaching out to colleges in DELCO to see if they have any interest in the program currently offered to Drexel and Temple.

Committee meets the first Monday of the month at 7pm.

PUBLIC INFORMATION - (Lori L.,- alternate OPEN)

-- Lori gave the report.

New “find a meeting” rack cards are in place. These will take the place of printed meeting books and should make it easier to get up to date meeting info.

Looking for young adults/teens to take part in making PI videos about AA. This is part of a larger outreach initiative to reach younger audiences.

Pamphlets are going to be distributed to homeless shelters in an effort to reach the homeless population.

Working on how to address requests for information from media outlets while retaining anonymity.

Committee meets the third Wednesday of the month at 7pm.

INTERPHONES - (Liaison and alternate OPEN)

-- No report given. No liaison present.

Bob D. explained the responsibilities of the Interphones Committee.

There was discussion surrounding finding a liaison. Alex M. is looking into interest from his home group. Will advise.

This Committee meets the last Wednesday of even months at 7pm.

FINANCE - (Peter W. - alternate OPEN)

-- Peter gave the report.

Committee reviewed and approved this month’s balance sheet.

Committee voted not to accept matching contributions as it goes against 7th Tradition.

Committee approved 2021 SEPIA budget.

The Finance Committee meets the third Thursday of the month at 7pm.

SPECIAL EVENTS - (Letitia B. - alternate Ashley G.)

-- Bob D. gave report.

Roundup for 2021 is still up in the air. January is the deadline for a decision.

Gratitude breakfast was a success with a $3,000 fundraising success. Experience with using Rally up was a good one.

Committee meets the last Monday of the month at 7pm.

PRISONS - (Mac - Frank alternate)

-- Mac gave the report.

Unfortunately, there is nothing happening at George W. Hill with regard to in person commitments.

Looking into supplying GWH with speaker DVDs, etc.

The Phila. Zone has been utilizing email to carry the message into prison. If anyone is interested in getting involved, please contact Mac for details.

Frank will continue to take books and literature out as needed.

Prison Committee meets the first Thursday of the month at 7pm.

CONTACT INFORMATION FOR Chaplain Dunn is 610-361-3200 ext. 546. Email: codunn@geogroup.com.

TREATMENT - (Seth F. - Angie W. alternate)

-- Seth gave the report.

Three facilities have opened their doors to outside meetings: First Steps, Mirmont, and Harwood House.

Seth detailed the meetings currently going on at the above.

Please email Seth with your requests and he will distribute accordingly.

Please include your name, phone number, home group because Seth needs to be able to contact you and because the facilities want confirmation calls the day of the meeting.

Treatment contact information: Seth F. or Angie at

Committee meets the 3rd Monday of the month at 7 pm.

Old Business:

There was discussion surrounding safety measures and fulfillment of in person commitments.

Reminder to make sure the SEPIA website has the correct information for your meeting.

New Business:

Bob brought up the possibility of looking into in person zone meetings. Asked the floor for thoughts/ideas on this. Bob is going to have more information on this at next month’s meeting.

Bob closed the meeting with the Responsibility Pledge at 8:00 pm.

Submitted by Kathy M., DELCO alt. zone secretary. 11/17/20

Montgomery Zone Meeting Report from Monday, November 9, 2020

Meeting Called to order by Zone Meeting Coordinator – Bill P.

Serenity Prayer

Reading and discussion of 11th Tradition and 11th Concept

Approximately 18 people in attendance

Visitors Reports

Treasurer: Diane C

Reported on budget

Donations needed

Deficit of $4,500 expected for the year

Unity: Chip D.

Meets third Tuesday of the month at 7 PM

Unity picnic – June 19th

There is a Unity “pitch” available on zoom

Public Information: Scott B.

Focus is outreach

Discussed latest effort: risk cards

Outreach to homeless

Prisons: Anne Marie G

Main focus at this time of COVID shut down is pen pal program. (no prison commitments)

Looking for donations of old speaker tapes, grapevines, AA literature

Meeting

The only two positions at the start of the meeting were the Zone and Assistant Zone Coordinator. The bulk of the meeting was seeking nominations for liaisons and alternate liaisons for the various committees. Some individuals that were nominated for liaison are:

Donna S: Treasurer

Denny L: Archives Liaison

Charlie: Prison Liaison

Available outgoing liaisons gave various committee reports.

New Business

The committee offered the recommendation a format addition for the meeting. The addition is that attendees be given the opportunity to share if they are having an issue with drinking or need to share. The format change was approved by those in attendance.

Philadelphia County Zone Report from Monday, November 9, 2020

Philadelphia Zone

Business meeting agenda

Date: Monday November 9,2020

Open with Serenity Prayer

Tradition 1and Concept 1- read and discussed by all

Zone Coordinators Report

Steering Committee

Rich-chair person report

If there are any changes in zoom meetings let the office know,

And also any meetings opening.

New Budget- Virtual meeting for Elaine’s Breakfast raised $3500 in fund raisers

GSO- Literature sales- contributions welcome

Share day- Joint workshop Virtual 3rd Sunday in February

Cape May round up still on, no info as of yet

Special Events will be picking a theme for round up

Total # of people in attendance at zone meeting 36 people

Anniversaries-None

Groups anniversaries-None

New Business:

Maria Office Manager

Shirts from round up have been delivered

Get in touch with office if not received shirts or Rich

IV: Committee Reports

Public Info - Jeremy- Asst. Director

Carry the message

Mail sent out to homeless shelters

Introducing a rack card- Pamphlets on how to find meetings also WaWa flyers

Meet on 3rd Wed @ mo. Zoom 7pm

Prison Committee- Carolyn C

No changes No zoom- 11th tradition Looking for literature

Xmas Joy- Bags for holidays-AA cards, grapevines, etc.

Interphones-Christian. Chris A-Alt.

Need help or volunteers

Bring meetings to shut ins

Treatment Facilities-Orion B

Pztl@aasepia.org for spread sheet on commitments available for Presbyterian Hospital. Or phone 716-400-…. or Joe M at 702-557-….

Prison Committee: Jennifer J Sending bags of joy for holiday

No physical meeting in prisons. Prison committee zoom meeting 1st Thursday @ mo. 6 pm

CPC-No reports

New liaison voted in tonight Welcome -JACKIE

Interphones- No report. Meet on zoom- Last Wed @ mo. 7pm

New liaison voted in tonight- Welcome- Katie D

Special Events- Meet on zoom Last Mon @ mo 7pm

New liaison voted in tonight- Welcome Maureen C

Public Information- Voted in new liaison tonight Welcome Jim F

Alternate- Emma F. Meeting on Zoom 3rd Wed @ mo

Finance Committee- Voted in new liaison tonight Welcome Katie M

Meeting on Zoom 3rd Thurs @ mo.

Archives- no report. Holds zoom meeting on 2nd Tues @ mo. 7pm

New liaison voted in tonight Welcome- Spencer

Unity Committee- New liaison voted in Welcome- Kate A

Philly Pa- Katie Virtual conference Nov. 21 3pm-12 609-605-….

January elections

V: Close meeting with I AM Responsible