A) Welcome –Denis M. Chairman, Board of Trustees
The meeting was called to order at 10:00 A.M. on October 28, 2010 by Denis M., Chairman of the Board of Trustees. Points of order and points of information were explained along with procedures for the meeting. The members at the head table were introduced and all new Trustees were asked to stand and introduce themselves.

Twenty-one proxy’s were received and read to be voted as follows: Area 2H – Linda W. given to Popeye E.; Area 5A – from J.R. E., given to Joe B.; Area 6C – from Dennis A., given to Gary G.; Area 9A – from Pat D., given to Carol K.; Area 10B., from Mark B. to Chuck B.; Area 11 – from Mary- Lou L., given to Paul K.; Area 14 – from Paul C., given to Brad B.; Area 15 – from Stanley C., given to Bill B.; Area 15 – from Chris M., given to Mike R.; Area 15 from Howard C., given to Bruce W.; Area 15 – from Phil S., given to Alan J.; Area 18 – from Andy D., given to Dina P.; Area 18A – from Yvonne R., given to Juan A.; Area 19 – from Antonio B., given to Leo R.; Area 20 – from Oscar B., given to Andre G.; Area 21 – from Lluis R., given to Rafael Z.; Area 22 – from Dudley B., given to Steve R.; Area 23A – from Vera T., given to Steve F.; Area 24 – from Fredrik A., given to Tommy S.; Area 27 – from Balazs M., given to Herb B. and Area 28 – from Javier H., given to Martha G.

Four absentee ballots were received as follows: Area 25 – from Luca G., given to Dave S.; Area 25 - from Salvatore T., given to Andy R.; Area 18 – from Ron M. given to Kevin O. and Area 31 – from Donatas Z. given to John B. to vote as per instructions on their respective ballots.

B) Remembrance of our departed members- Marshall R.
Marshall R. read a list our brothers and sisters who had passed away since our last Trustees meeting in Kentucky. A moment of silence was observed in their memories.

C) Reading from “A Day at a Time Book”
Jesse H. from Louisiana read the Reflection for the Day for both October 28th and October 29th to start the beginning sessions of the day.

D) Reading of the ”12 Steps of Unity”
Betty S. from New Jersey read the 12 Steps of Unity on October 28th and October 29th to start the beginning sessions of each day.

E) Roll Call-Karen H. International Executive Secretary
Karen H. took roll and there are presently 123 votes to begin the first session.

F) Approval of Minutes from Louisville
The minutes of the Board of Trustees meeting held in Louisville, Kentucky were unanimously approved as submitted.

G) ISO / Lifeliner - Karen H.
Karen H. gave a report on Lifeliners handing out a chart showing 37 states and 4 countries along with the number of members (491) who contributed over the past year. The total for this year is $73,669.47, which is a notable increase over last year’s total of $66,146.98. An explanation of what a Lifeliner is and how beneficial it can be was given. Marshall R. once again stressed the importance of becoming a Lifeliner. Everyone was thanked for their continued support.

H) Report from the Board of Regents – Benni F., BOR Chairman
Benni F. reported on the status of the Internaitional Service Office. He talked about some recent issues the Board of Regents has handled which included some Intellectual Property issues and the illegal use of the Gamblers Anonymous name and logo as well as the newly anticipated website. He also reminded everyone about the financial needs of our Interntional Service Office mentioning the receipt of a large amount of money that was recently donated from a G.A. member’s estate, as an example of giving back to Gamblers Anonymous.

I) Committee Reports

Quebec Conference Fall ’09 – Chuck R.
Andre G. gave the final report on the above Conference. A final check for the Conference proceeds was given along the final Conference Report as follows:

2009 FALL CONFERENCE ACCOUNTING

REVENUES

Registrations $ 44,008.00
Hotel rooms fees received 15,960.00
Scholarships 800.00
Misc. (Souvenirs, collection, donation, tour, etc) 5,356.23
Total $ 66,124.23

EXPENSES

Hotel room fees $ 15,866.52
Sheraton hotel (meals, other charges etc.) 30,606.47
Goodie Bags 2,862.49
Hospitality room 2,451.12
Registration and secretary 606.07
Printing and photocopies 1,715.84
Decorations 196.50
Souvenirs (T-Shirts) 1,326.00
Bank charges 326.29
Entertainment and sound system 3,628.81
Refunds 1,951.47
Item returned 161.00
P.O. Box 53.05
Total $ 61,751.63

Gross profits $ 4,372.60
Dec. 2009 Portion paid to G.A.
(U.S. Dollars $1,601.71) (1,715.28)
Dec. 2009 Portion paid to Gam-Anon
(U.S. Dollars $1,310.68) (1,403.61)

Balance (kept for possible tax claim) $ 1,253.71

Oct. 2010 Portion paid to G.A.
(U.S. Dollars $668.49) (689.54)
Oct. 2010 Portion paid to Gam-Anon
(U.S. Dollars $548.92) (564.17)

Balance $ (0.00)

Number of attendees was 370 including 187 locals

Louisville Spring ’10 – Chuck R.
Chuck R. reported on the above Conference stating that the total profit was $10,682.97 with G.A. receiving 55% and Gam-Anon receiving 45%. The final report follows:

2010 EASTERN CONFERENCE FINAL REPORT

Total Registrations 290
Galt House Room Nights 577

INCOME

Donations 660
Registrations/Meals 47,369
Tee Shirt Sales 1,370
Wednesday Trustee Dinner 2,300
Miscellaneous 232
TOTAL INCOME $51,931

EXPENSES

Printing 613.19
Entertainment 3,020.00
Decorations 240.83
Registration/Goody Bag 2,749.99
Tee Shirts 1,120.00
Hospitality 3,098.43
Wed. Trustee Dinner 2,100.70
Booklet 865.55
Transportation 1,447.00
Delegate/Trustee Coffee 1,140.07
Audio Visual 846.52
Meals 23,086.52
Miscellaneous 919.23
TOTAL EXPENSES $41,248.03

PROFIT $10,682.97

55% G.A. (5,875.63)
45% Gam-Anon (4,807.34)
BALANCE 0

Tampa Fall ’10 – Steve R.
Steve R. reported on the above Conference stating all financial and committee reports have been submitted and are up to date. Dina P. welcomed everyone to Tampa. She stated that there are currently 281 registrations and that we have met our room night commitment with the hotel. We are still negotiating with the hotel on some issues. The seed money is being paid back to the International Service Office prior to the end of this Conference.

South Jersey Spring '11 - Chuck R.
The above Conference, to be held May 6 – 8, 2011 at the Crown Plaza Cherry Hill in Cherry Hill, New Jersey report was given by Chuck R. He stated that he has been kept up to date on everything. Andy R. spoke letting everyone know that so far 55 reservations have been made and all committees are working hard. He asked that reservations be made as soon as possible and reminded everyone to fly into Philadelphia International Airport and not into Newark, as Philadelphia is much, much closer to the hotel.

Los Angeles Fall ’11 – Steve R.
Steve R. gave the above report on the Conference to be held October 14 – 16, 2011 at the Los Angeles Airport Marriott in Los Angeles, California. All bank statements and committee reports are being submitted on a regular basis. Steve F. spoke stating that a lot of great things and activities are being planned. The theme is “Follow the Stars to Recovery”.

Boston Spring ’12 – Chuck R.
Chuck R. reported on the above Conference to be held April 20 -22, 2012 at the Boston Marriott in Quincy, Massachusetts. He has been kept up to date on everything. Hotel contract and financials have been submitted. Paul K. stated they are at the beginning stage and they look forward to everyone coming to Boston.

J) Committee Reports

Blue Book Committee:
Committee Chair – Carol K. – Area 9 Co-Chair Liaison – Chuck R.
Mission Statement - To undertake a comprehensive review of SHARING RECOVERY THROUGH GAMBLERS ANONYMOUS 'BLUE BOOK'. Acting in concert with the wishes and input of the fellowship, we will recommend the adoption of all revisions, updates, and deletions consistent with the findings of our review.
Carol K. gave the following report during the meeting, as no report had been submitted. The committee is meeting via email. Although work is progressing it is falling behind our goals due to the number of people in the committee and health difficulties. The committee would welcome additional members who are willing to work on this major project. Those with typing and editing skills would be an asset. Respectfully submitted, Carol K.

BOR Procedural Review Committee:
Committee Chair – Herb B. – Area 5 Co-Chair Liaison – Denis M.
Mission Statement - Examine the details of the Articles of Incorporation of Gamblers Anonymous, the By-Laws, and the Guidance Code and formulate updated documents that are clear and concise in the definitions of the Board of Regents and Board of Trustees specific functions within the Fellowship.
No report was submitted. Herb B. stated the committee is working on the above and they figure it will probably take two years before it is completed.

Hotline Committee:
Committee Chair – Richie S. – Area 6 Co-Chair Liaison – Denis M.
Mission Statement - To determine the current status with regard to the establishment of a National Hot Line as mandated by the BOT. Then, recommend a plan of action towards fulfillment of that goal, implement that plan and assist areas as needed.
National Hotline Committee Report Tampa, FL Fall 2010
Basis for presentation. All the areas currently on the Erlang system were contacted and asked to provide the information from the website that each area administrator has to monitor a coordinate the individual areas efforts with the volunteers. The information collected covered a 7 month period from January 2010 through July 2010 The information received covered the following subjects: 1) Monthly amount paid to Erlang Communications 2) Total inbound calls to the national number. 3) Total inbound minutes compiled for the national number 4) Total inbound Calls to the local number 5) Total inbound minutes compiled for the local number 6) Total outbound calls from the national number 7) Total outbound minutes compiled for the national number 8) Total outbound calls from the local number 9) Total outbound minutes compiled for the local number From the information received, the information was calculated to focus on the cost effectiveness of the flat rate charges versus the usage of the system, and secondarily the utilization of the national number for each area. Requirements for a National Hotline System
1. The Hotline should have a single number to dial and give the caller the option to be directed to another area if needed.
2. Caller should be able to speak to a live volunteer 24/7
3. This number should be able for anyone to speak to a live volunteer outside of their local area by rolling to the next closest area after all volunteers in the specified time slots have attempted to be contacted.
4. The options should be universal in all areas
5. Gamblers Anonymous should own the exclusive rights to this national hotline number and should be utilized in reference on all GA printed & communicative advisory areas.
6. Uniform pricing structure on a per minute basis, with accommodations for areas with special needs.
7. A supervisor committee be appointed to administrate the overall system.
Richie S. gave the above report and handed out a chart that showed 8 of the items talked about in the first paragraph. A brief history of the Hotline was given. The committee has completed their mission statement and therefore the committee is now disband.

International Relations Committee:
Committee Chair – Martha G. – Area 28 Co-Chair Liaison – Steve R.
Mission Statement - Assist the fellowship of Gamblers Anonymous with International matters and help create a world wide united Gamblers Anonymous.
International Relations Committee Report
The International Relations Committee has answered 301 email requests from 47 countries since we last met in Louisville, Kentucky. We have heard recently from some new areas such as Benin a small country in Africa, Kosovo, Slovakia and the Virgin Islands. Mexico continues to grow at a very fast pace.
Australia will be celebrating its 50th anniversary in August of 2012 in Brisbane, Queensland. I attended the Aussie Conference in 2006 in Brisbane and I can say that Queensland truly is a very friendly, beautiful place to visit. The former Trustee from Area 18B, David McA. Sends this shout out to the International fellowship:
“Celebrating 50 Down Under”
On November 25, 1961 the first meeting of Gamblers Anonymous commenced in Sydney, Australia. The first place outside of the United States of America that a Gamblers Anonymous meeting was held. The 34th National Conference of Gamblers Anonymous will be held from Friday, August 24 – Sun, August 26 in Brisbane, Queensland in 2012. Come and join with us. So that “Celebrating 50 Down Under” will be a memorable conference and wonderful way to think of our founder Jim W and for us here in Australia, founder Phil S. Apart from the wonderful weekend of meetings, workshops and fellowship there will be for our early arrival guests some day/night tours organized (more information to come and subject to numbers registered) in the days leading up to the conference. Please be in touch with David McA. conf2012@hotmail.com Mexico as mentioned is very active, in addition to adding meetings and spreading the word Area 28 is asking the BOT for approval to start an RSO and be able to translate print and sell literature under the ISO’s direction with Agenda item’s 46 and 47.
Martha G., the new IRC Chairperson sends the following along: “The GA Hispanic community is working together for the betterment of the worldwide Spanish speaking compulsive gambler, who wants to stop gambling through the Gamblers Anonymous Recovery and Unity Program. The Spanish Translation Committee has been very active with members from Spain, Argentina, Venezuela, USA Spanish meetings and Mexico. We welcome more countries to join us.” Argentina’s Trustee Leo R. will be reporting on Argentina’s National Conference held last May. Argentina will be asking the BOT for 2 additional Trustees as well. They are also offering 3 new pieces of Literature for step study on steps 1 thru 3. These items are on the Tampa Agenda as # 49,#76 and #77.
Brother George G. will be presenting the requests from Colombia, Venezuela and Paraguay for acceptance into the BOT with trustee allotments. These are Agenda items #42-44. In closing I would like to thank the BOT for all its support over the past few years of my chairing this committee. Since our inception we have added ten new areas and are requesting three more this meeting. We have served the International Fellowship well since San Diego conference in 2005. I am sure the BOT will show our new chairperson Martha G. the same support going forward and I wish her well.
Steve R., Trustee Area 2B
Martha G. gave a report on the above committee. She mentioned that the Committee met on Wednesday night with over 30 members in attendance. They will be submitting at least 2 Agenda items in New Jersey.

Literature Committee:
Committee Chair – Chuck R Co-Chair Liaison – Chuck R.
Mission Statement - To encourage the creation of new Gamblers Anonymous literature as needed and to revise, edit and or update existing Gamblers Anonymous literature. Literature Committee Report for Tampa
The Literature Committee has not had much to do since the Louisville conference. All items up for a merit vote at that conference have long since passed their 30-day comment period and are on the current agenda, incorporating several changes, for a first approval vote. These items are as follows:
Agenda item #3: "Trustee Responsibilities and Guidelines"
Agenda item #4: "Twenty (Recovery) Questions"
Agenda item #5: "Step Writing Exercises"
In addition, a tabled item from Louisville is on the agenda. This is item #39 "Twelve Steps of Recovery", up for a merit vote.
The Committee will, however, be extremely involved after the conference and prior to the expiration of the 30-day comment period for new literature seeking a merit vote. There are seven proposed new pieces of literature (agenda items 67 through 73). Assuming that some or all of these receive merit approval, I will ask that all Trustees do their job and comment on them as well as offer suggested changes to improve them. I will send a reminder via the Trustee Line after the conference so that you will be prompted to assist the Literature Committee in doing its job to help our members receive as good a finished product as possible.
I urge all of you to go to the Download Page of the Trustee Website and familiarize yourselves with all of the previously mentioned literature.
I look forward to seeing everyone in Tampa.
Sincerely, Chuck R. - Literature Committee Chair
Chuck R. gave the above report, which was submitted online.

Pressure Relief Committee:
Committee Chair – Lloyd A.– Area 6 Co-Chair Liaison – Steve R.
Mission Statement – This committee is charged with the task of formulating ways and means to assist any GA meetings that need help implementing PRGMs.
No online report was submitted. Although a 1 page handout was provided to everyone. Lou W. is the new Chair of this committee. Lou requested a change in the committee name to add “Process” which was approved and will now be “Pressure Relief Process Committee”. An item to request a change in the mission statement will be on the Agenda for New Jersey.

Prison Committee, US:
Committee Chair – Mike M. – Area 3D Co-Chair Liaison – Steve R.
Mission Statement - To provide telephone, email, "snail mail", and an in person resource (as feasible) to the trustees or their designees for the purpose of assisting when a prisoner or institutional staff member is requesting to start an "inside" meeting, or an Intergroup and its committee are outreaching to prisons, jails, etc. Also, to compile in the ISO office an unpublished JIP meeting directory as a much-needed resource for federal, state, and local judges, defense attorneys, prosecutors, probation and parole officers, and clinicians. Prisons Committee (US) Report
May 2010 - October 2010
To my GA Brothers and Sisters:
During the above period, the data collection activity continued Due to a communications mix-up with ISO, requests were not sent to me until September. Research has shown that we started one new meeting in West Virginia and two are pending, one each in New Jersey and Kentucky. One request (Michigan) was denied by the warden. Part of the holdup is that the facilities are asking for a local representative to help them.
The following statistics represent the current status of GA meetings in Jails, Institutions, and Prisons in the United States:
Current known active meetings - 30. A list of these meetings with details is attached to this report and a copy will be sent to ISO for their use. ISO sent out 3 prison starter kits. One potential meeting previously reported was not verified. Someone from Chester, Pennsylvania emailed that they have meetings at their facility but there still has been no response to verify this.
ISO sent out 11 prison information packets: 4 to California; 1 to Colorado; 2 to Florida; 1 to Kentucky, 1 to Illinois; 1 to New York; and 1 to Texas.
There were 4 new requests for a pen pal ; 2 in California (Jamestown and Vacaville), 1 in Colorado (Sterling), and 1 in Kentucky (Pineville).Due the fact that I’m no longer a Trustee and can’t attend conferences, I would appreciate it if any Trustee who represents any of the above areas and is interested in finding someone to correspond with these inmates could contact me and I will provide them the necessary information.
After speaking with several facility coordinators, I feel a major problem we are facing is that often they need GA volunteers to help start and/or coordinate the meetings and no one has come forward. If this happens in the future, I will contact the nearest Trustee to the site to try to get someone to come forward and volunteer. I hope that the Trustees will cooperate in this effort. Respectfully submitted, Mike M (Area 3D) Chairperson
Report was submitted online.

Prison Committee, Canada:
Committee Chair – Jean-Marc L. – Area 5B Co-Chair Liaison – Steve R.
Mission Statement - To provide telephone, email, "snail mail", and an in person resource (as feasible) to the trustees or their designees for the purpose of assisting when a prisoner or institutional staff member is requesting to start an "inside" meeting, or an Intergroup and its committee are outreaching to prisons, jails, etc. Also, to compile in the ISO office an unpublished JIP meeting directory as a much-needed resource for federal, state, and local judges, defense attorneys, prosecutors, probation and parole officers, and clinicians.
The Chairperson and members will be informed who is on the committee within the next few weeks.

J.I.P. MEETINGS IN CANADA
Committee Report
Since our last report in May 2010, there has been very little activity on our Committee. We have attached a list of known J.I.P. meetings in Canada. No new meeting was started. We never heard back from the Fenbrook Institution in Gravenhurst, Ontario, although we tried to contact them. A Starters kit had been sent to this institution by ISO back in Spring 2010.
Several institutions, especially in Quebec, were contacted and, although they have no request for a meeting presently, they know we exist and are ready to help.
Our weekly meeting in a man shelter in Montreal is still going strong. We are giving away a lot of Newcomers kit, just hoping someone will see hope and attend regular meetings as well. We always need feed back from the different trustees in Canada about the JIP meetings in their area and we would also welcome any new member on the Committee, be it a current or past trustee or a member in any Canadian area. If you feel you could help, please do not hesitate to contact either the Committee Chair, Jean-Marc L. or myself, André G., co-chair.
We are still sending every month our current meeting listing to most known Therapy facilities in Quebec so they can refer their patients to Gamblers Anonymous once their therapy is over. We see more and more newcomers being referred by these institutions. Some of our regular meetings are even renting a room at therapy facility and hold regular meetings opened to all G.A. members. We know of about 10 of these regular weekly meetings. We look forward to keep those meetings running smoothly and to bring a little hope to a compulsive gambler that still suffers be it inside the walls, in a shelter or in a therapy house.
Jean-Marc L. André G. - Chair Co-chair Area 5B Area
Andre G. gave the above report, which was submitted online.

Public Relations Committee:
Committee Chair – OPEN Co-Chair Liaison – Chuck R.
Mission Statement - We will strive to continue to develop and encourage the use of as many public relations tools as necessary to fulfill our fellowship's primary purpose, always looking for guidance from the Recovery and Unity Steps, the Guidance Code and our higher power(s). No report was submitted. Richard F. is the new Chair of the Public Relations committee.

Trustee Area Demarcation Committee:
Committee Chair – Debb W. – Area 2G Co-Chair Liaison – Steve R.
Mission Statement - To compile and maintain a map of every areas specific geographical boundaries and the number of trustees assigned to each of these areas. For the purpose of possible area and or Trustee realignment based on these boundaries for the good of the fellowship.
Demarcation Committee Report given by Pete K for committee chair Debb W. Committee members are as follows:Debb W.,Pete K.,Greg M,John V,and Marylou I’m sorry but we had to interrupt this committee due to “life circumstances”!
As of the time of this report we have not made the purchase of the software needed to begin our mapping task. In Louisville the BOT approved funds of $305.00 to purchase a program that we had been looking at from Microsoft. In the interim another program was brought to my attention that I believe is worth spending the time that it takes to see if it may be a better fit for the task at hand than the original one we had selected. This should take a couple of weeks ,I’m guessing. (So as soon as my committee members get home from sunny Florida and back to reality we can get busy!!!!!) If all goes well….we should have the decision made and the software purchased by the end of November.
We’ll shoot for “ Phase One” of the mapping (the simplest) to be completed by the middle of January. The time that it takes to complete Phase Two-will be totally dependent on how efficient our areas are to submit the specific boundaries of their area.(hint:these descriptions can be given to any committee member at the conference.) If I were to guess, this should be completed by the end of March.
In our “perfect world” we could be presenting the BOT with our completed map in Cherryhill in May!
Thank you, each and everyone of you for all that you do,
Have a fantastic time in Florida, wish I were there!!!! Committee Chair Debb W.
Pete K. gave the above report, which was passed out during the meeting. John N. will be the Chair of this committee.

Trustee Meeting Rules and Procedures Committee:
Committee Chair - Herb B. – Area 5 Co-Chair Liaison – Denis M.
Mission Statement – To compile, maintain and amend a manual that will outline the rules and procedures for the Trustee meetings of Gamblers Anonymous.
No report was submitted. Herb B. gave a short summary of what this standing committee does, along with the revisions that were passed in Louisville.

Trustee Removal Committee:
Committee Chair – Ed E.. – Area 2 Co-Chair Liaison – Chuck R.
Mission Statement - To develop and recommend procedural steps to follow in the removal of any Trustee from the Board of Trustees for acts on his or her own part which are detrimental to Gamblers Anonymous as a whole.
Trustee Removal Procedure Committee
Report for trusteewebsite.com - October 14, 2010
1. The committee’s purpose is:
To develop and recommend procedural steps to follow in the removal of any Trustee from the Board of Trustees for acts on his or her own part which are detrimental to Gamblers Anonymous as a whole. (A condition that already exists in Article VIII - Board of Trustees, Section 4 of the Guidance Code of Gamblers Anonymous.)
2. Therefore the committee will not describe events or “acts detrimental to GA as a whole”, nor will it attempt to provide guidelines defining such events or actions.
3. Since the inception of the committee after the Montreal BOT (Fall ‘09), committee members have met generally once every two-three weeks for an hour-long conference call in the evening.
4. The committee has set aside consideration of any proposed Section 4 Guidance Code changes until it will have completed all the procedural steps in the removal of any Trustee.
A. The steps will be outlined separately in a new document and introduced as a piece of GA appropriate literature at the Cherry Hill BOT.
5. The committee has identified certain key elements to be considered for the procedural steps:
A. For the Trustee to be given choice of resigning or bringing the petition before a BOT vote.
B. The Executive Board (Chairman and 1st & 2nd co-Chairs) will be responsible for impaneling a group of 5 current Trustees.
a. Panel will be a Standing Committee with a continued existence formed on an ongoing basis.
b. Term of service will be 2 years starting with the Fall meetings in the even years to coincide with the new term of the Trustees.
c. Panel of 5 Trustees will represent 5 compass points from regions of East, West, South, Midwest and Canada.
I. A Trustee Removal Committee Zone Mapping has been developed. http://trusteewebsite.com/scans/us_map.pdf
d. There will be 1 back-up Trustee from each compass point impaneled by the Executive Board in the event any panel member resigns or otherwise vacates his/her position on the panel.
C. If the 2-year term expires during an ongoing petition process, the current panel will continue in service and see the process through completion or resolution.
D. For petitioner’s concerns to be heard and discussed.
E. For the process to be expedient.
F. For the Trustee to be given the opportunity to be heard.
G. For the voting to be by secret ballot and require two-thirds majority.
Ed E. gave the above report, which was submitted online along with Pete K. stating that the committee has been busy over the last few months.

Trustee Website Committee:
Committee Chair – David M. – Area 12 Co-Chair Liaison – Denis M.
Mission Statement - To set guidelines and oversee the Trustee website.
No report was submitted. A brief report was given by David M. regarding the posting of 15 years of B.O.T. minutes on the website to create a searchable database by viewers of the Trustee website. A question was asked if there is someone to back up the activities of the Committee Chair. There were 2 people who were listed as backups.

Video Conferencing Committee:
Committee Chair – Andy R. – Area 13B Co-Chair Liaison – Chuck R.
Mission Statement –
No report was submitted. Andy R. stated that they will have a report in New Jersey. Their mission statement is “Feasibility of Video Conferencing of the Trustee meetings to Trustees outside of North America”.

Website Revision Committee:
Committee Chair – David M. – Area 12 Co-Chair Liaison – Denis M.
Mission Statement - To review new designs, features, enhancements and any other changes that would be demonstrated to the Board of Trustees for approval and deployment to any website approved by the Board of Trustees.
No report was submitted. David M. gave the following report on the Website Revision. The website development company is moving very slowly, but is working towards a delivery date of the end of November 2010. A letter was sent to the company from the Board of Regents advising them that if the project was not completed by that date, a request would be made for a refund. It was stated that the site cannot be released until the I.S.O. is completely satisfied with the online store component of the site. Paperwork and procedures must be cleared by I.S.O.

New Committees:

Conference Review Committee:
A new committee was formed to establish guidelines and procedures regarding when an Area receives the bid to host an International Conference. Those who volunteered to be on the committee are Andre G., Area 5B; Jimmy D., Area 1A; Chuck B., Area 10B; Bill A., Area 7A; Wendy B., Area 1; Richie S., Area 6; Fred L., Area 8; Steve F., Area 1; Mary C., Area 2J; Alan J., Area 15 and Alex L., Area 3A. The committee Chairperson will be selected and members will be informed who is on the committee within the next few weeks.

Joint Conference Committee With Gam-Anon:
Gam-Anon contacted Denis M. and has requested a joint committee regarding conferences. After a discussion on the feasibility of such a committee a vote was taken in favor of establishing a joint committee with Gam-Anon. Those who volunteered to be on the committee are Bob W., Area 12; Levi B., Area 2; Alan J., Area 15; Fred L., Area 8; Lloyd A., Area 6; Matty C., Area 12; Dave S., Area 13; Roger L., Area 2; John D., Area 12; David W., Area 1; Bob W., Area 1; John B., Area 13; Wendy B., Area 1 and Betty S., Area 12. The committee Chairperson will be selected and members will be informed who is on the committee within the next few weeks.

Rules and Procedures Rules and Procedures
1. Joe B. - Area 6C Section 33, Voting, Abstentions
Current version: Abstentions will be counted and included in the overall results to determine the two-thirds majority.
Proposed version: Abstentions will not be included in any formula involving the outcome of any votes.
Motion to accept above.
Passed

Rules and Procedures Rules and Procedures
2. Tom M. - Area 2
A fee of $25.00 will be sent to the I.S.O. for each item to be placed on the Trustee Agenda. The money will be used by the I.S.O. for the General Operating budget. The fee will only be charged for the initial Item and not for second votes. Each person wishing to speak on any item on the Trustee Agenda will donate $1.00 per minute or portion there of to speak on an item. This money will go to the general operating budget of the I.S.O.
Discussion only.

Unfinished Business Items that Passed the Merit Vote
3. Linda S. - Area 3A
A pamphlet containing Trustee Responsibilities and Guidelines gathered from many GA- approved and GA-appropriate sources to be presented to new Trustees by ISO upon election. This tool may also be available for current Trustees and those who think they might want to run for Trustee to review what the Trustee responsibilities and guidelines are (for sale by ISO). Passed merit vote in Montreal
See attachment #3
Item ruled out of order.

Unfinished Business Items that Passed the Merit Vote
4. Ed E. for Richard F. - Area 2
Request the consideration of Twenty (Recovery) Questions as GA- approved literature and passage of the new literature merit vote. This proposed literature is intended to be a 3-page pamphlet and to serve as a reminder about “living in the solution ”through the principles of the Gamblers Anonymous Recovery Program.
Passed merit vote in Louisville
See attachment #4
Motion to accept above.
Amendment to change the word “the” in 7, 10 and 11 to read “your”.
Passed
Amendment to change item #9 to has Recovery removed the compulsion to gamble.
Failed
On the motion.
Failed

Unfinished Business Items that Passed the Merit Vote
5. Mike M. for Pam K. - Area 3D
Request the Board Of Trustees accept, for merit, the "Step Writing Exercises" as approved GA literature and send it to the Literature Committee for the next step in the approval process.
Passed Merit Vote in Louisville
See attachment #5
Motion to accept the “Step Writing Exercise” as approved G.A. Literture.
Amendment to change page 12 of 36 first paragraph fourth sentence to say “within the next week, choose a situation in your life and make a conscious decision to let go of your need to control it (as long as doing so will not harm yourself or others) and then follow through on it”. Passed
The Chair was challenged that the amendment is out of order because an amendment should not be approved prior to a first vote. The Chair stated the amendment is in order. The vote on the challenge fails therefore the Chair is in order and the amendment stands.
On the motion.
Passed 1st Vote

Unfinished Business Items Requiring a 2nd Vote
6. Joe B. - Area 6C
Approve as new literature, making up 7 separate cards, to be sold by ISO, like the current, 'Let it Stay Here' Card (4" X 7-1/2"- Doubled Sided Heavy Stock) with Slogans of the Program, these will be sold as a kit and the price set by ISO. They can then be displayed by the room, during the meetings.
Below are the 7 separate Slogans:
1. One Day At A Time
2. Keep Coming Back
3. Let It Begin With Me
4. I Can Only Change Myself
5. It Works If You Work It
6. Help Is As Near As My Phone
7. Work The Steps
Passed 1st vote in Louisville
Passed 2nd Vote

Unfinished Business Items Requiring a 2nd Vote
7. Steve R. - Area 2B
Approve the 50-year history book written for the 2007 50th Anniversary Conference as approved G.A. literature.
Passed 1st vote in Louisville
Failed

Unfinished Business Items Requiring a 2nd Vote
8. Joe B. - Area 6C
By-Laws, Article XVII- Order of Business, New Section 3
All votes taken at any Board of Regents meeting will be by roll call, unless unanimous. The Recording Secretary will be responsible for detailing the roll call vote results in the monthly minutes.
Passed 1st vote in Louisville
Failed

Unfinished Business Items Requiring a 2nd Vote
9. Herb B. - Area 5
By-Laws, Article III, Section 2, Remove 2nd sentence.
Current Version: This Corporation shall be governed by a Board of Regents of nine (9) members of Gamblers Anonymous who have completely abstained from gambling for at least two (2) years. However, two (2) members of this Board may be non-members of Gamblers Anonymous. This Board shall be elected by the members of Gamblers Anonymous in the manner provided herein. Proposed Version: This Corporation shall be governed by a Board of Regents of nine (9) members of Gamblers Anonymous who have completely abstained from gambling for at least two (2) years. This Board shall be elected by the members of Gamblers Anonymous in the manner provided herein.
Passed 1st vote in Louisville
Passed 2nd Vote

Unfinished Business Items Requiring a 2nd Vote
10. Herb B. - Area 5
By-Laws, Article III, Section 3
Current Version: The term of office of Regents shall be one (1) year.
Proposed Version: The term of office of Regents shall be two (2) years.
Passed 1st vote in Louisville
Passed 2nd Vote

Unfinished Business Items Requiring a 2nd Vote
11. Herb B. - Area 5
By-Laws, Article III, Section 8
Current Version: Board of Regents members shall be limited to two (2) elected terms served consecutively, but may be re-elected after one (1) year of non-service on the Board of Regents. Proposed Version: Board of Regents members shall be limited to two (2) elected terms served consecutively, but may be re-elected after one (1) term of non-service on the Board of Regents. Passed 1st vote in Louisville
Passed 2nd Vote

Unfinished Business Items Requiring a 2nd Vote
12. Herb B. - Area 5
By-Laws, Article IV, Section 2
Current Version: The term of office of all elective officers shall terminate at the end of the fiscal year.
Proposed Version: The term of office of all elective officers shall terminate June 30th of each odd year.
Passed 1st vote in Louisville
Passed 2nd Vote

Unfinished Business Items Requiring a 2nd Vote
13. Herb B. - Area 5
By-Laws, Article IV, Section 3
Current Version: The newly elected Regents will be required to attend the June Board of Regents meeting prior to the start of their July 1st term. At the close of the said meeting the newly elected Regents shall elect the Officers of the Corporation for the next fiscal year and their service shall commence on July 1st.
Proposed Version: The newly elected Regents will be required to attend the June Board of Regents meeting prior to the start of their July 1st term. At the close of the said meeting the newly elected Regents shall elect the Officers of the Corporation for the next term and their service shall commence on July 1st.
Passed 1st vote in Louisville
Passed 2nd Vote

Unfinished Business Items Requiring a 2nd Vote
14. Herb B. - Area 5
By-Laws, Article V, Section 1
Add the word "odd" before the word "year" in the first sentence of this section.
Proposed Version: On or before February 1st of each odd year any member of Gamblers Anonymous that has abstained completely from gambling for at least two (2) years and has attended Gamblers Anonymous meetings regularly - 39 meetings per year is eligible to submit their name, previous service as a Regent of this Corporation or as a Trustee of Gamblers Anonymous, total abstinence from gambling and home group, along with a biography not to exceed 200 words and phone number (both optional) to the International Service Office to be included on the Board of Regents ballot. These biographies will be an attachment to the ballot. Any member that is presently a member of any International Board of Gamblers Anonymous, but whose term ends on June 30, of the same year, is eligible to be included in the Board of Regents ballot; if their term has one more year to run, they must resign before submitting their name for the Board of Regents ballot.
Passed 1st vote in Louisville
Passed 2nd Vote

Unfinished Business Items Requiring a 2nd Vote
15. Herb B. - Area 5
By-Laws, Article VI, Section 1
Add the word "odd" before the word "year" in the first sentence of this section.
Proposed Version: The International Executive Secretary of the Corporation, on or before March 1st of each odd year, shall submit in writing a ballot of all eligible members wishing to run for the Board of Regents. Previous service as Regent of the Corporation or as Trustee of Gamblers Anonymous, total abstinence as of March 1st of that year, and home group of nominee shall be listed along side the name of each nominee.
Passed 1st vote in Louisville
Passed 2nd Vote

Unfinished Business Items Requiring a 2nd Vote
16. Herb B. - Area 5
By-Laws, Article VI, Section 2
Current Version: The Board of Regents of this Corporation shall be elected annually by the Board of Trustees at the Spring Conference. The term of office shall be for a period of one (1) year commencing July 1 and ending June 30.
Proposed Version: The Board of Regents of this Corporation shall be elected every two (2) years by the Board of Trustees at the Spring Conference. The term of office shall be for a period of two (2) years commencing July 1 of the odd years and ending June 30 of the next odd year.
Passed 1st vote in Louisville
Passed 2nd Vote

Unfinished Business Items Requiring a 2nd Vote
17. Herb B. - Area 5
By-Laws, Article III, Section 4
Remove the part of the first sentence that is in parentheses. (non G.A. members excluded) Current Version: Any Regent (non G.A. members excluded) is automatically removed from office for gambling. For the purpose of these By-Laws, gambling is defined as follows: any betting or wagering, for self or others, whether for money or not, no matter how slight or insignificant where the outcome is uncertain or depends upon chance or skill, constitutes gambling.
Proposed Version: Any Regent is automatically removed from office for gambling. For the purpose of these By-Laws, gambling is defined as follows: any betting or wagering, for self or others, whether for money or not, no matter how slight or insignificant where the outcome is uncertain or depends upon chance or skill, constitutes gambling.
Passed 1st vote in Louisville
Passed 2nd Vote

Unfinished Business Items Requiring a 2nd Vote
18. Herb B. - Area 5
By-Laws, Article VI, Section 3
Current Version: The annual election of the Board of Regents shall be by written ballot. Each recognized Gamblers Anonymous meeting should be contacted by their area Trustee(s) so that the groups, at their option, have involvement in the voting process. Each Trustee, based on guidance from their groups and their personal knowledge, will be able to select no more than nine (9) proposed Regents from the list on the ballot.
Proposed Version: The election of the Board of Regents shall be by written ballot. Each recognized Gamblers Anonymous meeting should be contacted by their area Trustee(s) so that the groups, at their option, have involvement in the voting process. Each Trustee, based on guidance from their groups and their personal knowledge, will be able to select no more than nine (9) proposed Regents from the list on the ballot.
Passed 1st vote in Louisville
Passed 2nd Vote

Unfinished Business Items Requiring a 2nd Vote
19. Herb B. - Area 5
By-Laws, Article VI, Section 11
Current Version: The one-year term of the newly elected Regents shall begin as of July 1st. Proposed Version: The two (2) year term of the newly elected Regents shall begin as of July 1st of the odd years.
Passed 1st vote in Louisville
Passed 2nd Vote

Unfinished Business Items Requiring a 2nd Vote
20. Herb B. - Area 5
By-Laws, Article IX, Section 1
Delete from the first sentence the following: (non-Gamblers Anonymous member excluded).
Current Version: Any member of the Board of Regents or appointive officer must be terminated for gambling (non-Gamblers Anonymous member excluded);
Proposed Version: Any member of the Board of Regents or appointive officer must be terminated for gambling;
Passed 1st vote in Louisville
Passed 2nd Vote

Unfinished Business Items Requiring a 2nd Vote
21. Joe B. - Area 6C
Guidance Code, Article VIII, Section 6
Current Version: Two-thirds (2/3) or more members of the Board of Trustees present at any meeting shall constitute a quorum. Proxies shall be counted to determine the number present at any meeting for the purpose of a quorum.
Proposed Version: Two-thirds (2/3) or more members of the Board of Trustees present at any meeting shall constitute a quorum. Absentee Ballots and Proxies shall be counted to determine the number present at any meeting for the purpose of a quorum.
Passed 1st vote in Louisville
85-5 94.4% approval margin
Approved 89 Against 0
Passed 2nd Vote

Unfinished Business Items Requiring a 2nd Vote
22. Bill S. - Area 3B
Guidance Code, Article XVI, Section 6, International Executive Secretary of ISO
CHANGE - mail copies-- change to distribute copies (via US mail, email or other secured means)
Current Version: The International Executive Secretary shall be responsible to publish a monthly Gamblers Anonymous Bulletin and mail copies of same to each group in our Fellowship. Number of copies sent to each group shall be set by the Board of Regents.
Proposed Version: The International Executive Secretary shall be responsible to publish a monthly Gamblers Anonymous Bulletin and distribute (via US mail, email or other secured means) copies of same to each group in our Fellowship. Number of copies sent to each group shall be set by the Board of Regents.
Passed 1st vote in Louisville
70-24 74.5% approval margin
Approved 85 Against 6
Passed 2nd Vote

Unfinished Business Items Requiring a 2nd Vote
23. Bill S. - Area 3B
Guidance Code, Article VIII, Section 9, 4th sentence
Remove the word 'physical' twice
Current version: To change the Twelve Steps of RECOVERY and Twelve Steps of UNITY PROGRAM, it shall require a two-thirds (2/3) majority by not less than the physical presence of 2/3 of the eligible voting members of the Board of Trustees at two (2) consecutive physical meetings.
Proposed version: To change the Twelve Steps of RECOVERY and Twelve Steps Of UNITY Program, it shall require a two-thirds (2/3) majority by not less than the presence of 2/3 of the eligible voting members of the Board of Trustees at two consecutive meetings.
Passed 1st vote in Louisville
72-15-0 82.8% approval margin
Approved 50 Against 47
Failed (2/3 Vote Needed)

Unfinished Business Items Requiring a 2nd Vote
24. Gary S. - Area 12
Guidance Code, Article VIII, Section 13, Second paragraph Move the second paragraph
The Board of Trustees will have the right to approve the translation to a foreign language any audio, video, or written approved Gamblers Anonymous literature it deems necessary to meet the needs of our entire International Fellowship.
Move it to be the first paragraph in Section 13A.
Adjust rest of Section 13A to accommodate.
Passed 1st vote in Louisville
82-0-6 100% approval margin
Approved 57 Against 28
Failed (2/3 Vote Needed)
A roll call vote was requested.
Approved 82 Against 29 Abstained 5
Passed 2nd Vote

Unfinished Business Items Requiring a 2nd Vote
25. Pete K. - Area 13B
Add the words "fax or email" in Article IX, Section 3 of the Guidance Code.
Current version: Board of Trustees meetings may be conducted by mail, however twenty (20) or more votes are needed for a quorum. A majority vote of the quorum shall carry any measure voted upon except as provided for in Section 2 of Article XVI and Article XX.
Proposed version: Board of Trustees meetings may be conducted by mail, fax or email, however twenty (20) or more votes are needed for a quorum. A majority vote of the quorum shall carry any measure voted upon except as provided for in Section 2 of Article XVI and Article XX.
Passed 1st vote in Louisville
68-7 90.7% approval margin
Approved 91 Against 1
Passed 2nd Vote

Unfinished Business Items Requiring a 2nd Vote
26. David M. - Area 12
Guidance Code, Article VIII, New Section 4A
An area has the right to remove any of its Trustees without the approval of the Board of Trustees, providing the area follows the written procedures to do so approved by its area membership. Any removal must be done with a two-thirds majority of the area's eligible voting members, as defined by each area. ISO must be notified of any changes in the Trustees from that area. Passed 1st vote in Louisville
74-29-4 71.8% approval margin
Approved 62 Against 50 Abstained 1
Failed (2/3 Vote Needed)

Unfinished Business Items Requiring a 2nd Vote
27. Steve R. - Area 2B
Guidance Code Change, Page 11, Article VIII, Section 21
Current version: Any Trustee who misses two (2) consecutive Board meetings is automatically removed from the Board of Trustees, and the area in which he or she serves shall be duly notified to elect a new Trustee. A quick response meeting will count for attendance at the Board of Trustees meeting. Absentee ballots and proxies from Board of Trustees members from areas outside of the U.S.A. and Canada will count as attendance at the Board of Trustees physical meetings.
Proposed version: Any Trustee that misses (2) consecutive Board meetings is automatically removed from the Board of Trustees, and the area in which he or she serves shall be duly notified to hold an election for that vacant Trustee position. A quick response meeting will count for attendance at the Board of Trustees meeting. Absentee ballots and proxies from Board of Trustees members from areas outside of the U.S.A. and Canada will count as attendance at the Board of Trustees physical meetings.
Passed 1st vote in Louisville
93-8-2 92.1% approval margin
Approved 88 Against 15
Passed 2nd Vote

Unfinished Business Items Requiring a 2nd Vote
28. Steve R. - Area 2B
Guidance Code, Page 12, Article IX, Section 3
Current version: Board of Trustees meetings may be conducted by mail, however twenty (20) or more votes are needed for a quorum. A majority vote of the quorum shall carry any measure voted upon except as provided for in Section 2 of Article XVI and Article XX.
Proposed version: Board of Trustees meetings may be conducted by mail, however a majority of current Trustees are needed for a quorum. A majority vote of the quorum shall carry any measure voted upon except as provided for in Section 2 of Article XVI and Article XX.
Passed 1st vote in Louisville
84-2-2 97.7% approval margin
Item withdrawn.

Unfinished Business Items Requiring a 2nd Vote
29. Steve R. - Area 2B
Guidance Code, Article XIX, Section 2
Current Version: On any issue affecting Gamblers Anonymous as a whole, which necessitates a vote by the Board of Trustees and /or groups, the ballots will be returned in a sealed envelope to the International Executive Secretary of the International Service Office (I.S.O.), who will tally votes and notify each Trustee and group of the result of voting. This Section does not apply to the meeting of the Board of Trustees.
Proposed Version: On any issue affecting Gamblers Anonymous as a whole, which necessitates a vote by the Board of Trustees and /or groups, the ballots will be returned in a sealed envelope or original ballot signed by the Trustee scanned and emailed or faxed to the International Executive Secretary of the International Service Office (I.S.O.). The I.E.S. and a combination of at least 3 members of the Board of Trustees or the Board of Regents will tally votes and the I.E.S. will notify each Trustee and group of the result of voting. This Section does not apply to the physical meeting of the Board of Trustees.
Passed 1st vote in Louisville
80-0-4 100% approval margin
Approved 92 Against 2
Passed 2nd Vote

Unfinished Business Items Requiring a 2nd Vote
30. Herb B. - Area 5
Guidance Code, Article XIII, Section 1
Change the date of the election to the Spring Conference of the odd years indicating that the term will be 2 years.
Current Version: The International Service Office (I.S.O.) shall be guided by a Board of Regents of nine (9) members of Gamblers Anonymous who have abstained from gambling for at least two (2) years. This Board shall be elected at the Spring Conference.
Proposed Version: The International Service (I.S.O.) shall be guided by a Board of Regents of nine (9) members of Gamblers Anonymous who have abstained from gambling for at least two (2) years. This Board shall be elected at the Spring Conference of the odd years. (Every 2 years). Passed 1st vote in Louisville
94-2-1 97.9% approval margin
Approved 92 Against 0
Passed 2nd Vote

Unfinished Business Items Requiring a 2nd Vote
31. Herb B. - Area 5
Guidance Code, Article XIII, Section 3
Current Version: The term of office of Regents shall be for one (1) year starting on July 1st and including June 30th of the following year.
Proposed Version: The term of office of Regents shall be for two (2) years starting on July 1st of the odd years and ending on June 30th of the following odd year. Passed 1st vote in Louisville
93-8 92.1% approval margin
Approved 96 Against 0
Passed 2nd Vote

Unfinished Business Items Requiring a 2nd Vote
32. Herb B. - Area 5
Guidance Code, Article XIII, Section 7
Current Version: Two (2) members of the Board of Regents may be non-members of Gamblers Anonymous if approved by the Board of Trustees.
Proposed Version: Eliminate this section completely and re-number the rest of the sections in Article XIII, i.e. Section 8 becomes Section 7, etc.
Passed 1st vote in Louisville
89-2-0 97.8% approval margin
Approved 95 Against 0
Passed 2nd Vote

Unfinished Business Items Requiring a 2nd Vote
33. Herb B. - Area 5
Guidance Code, Article XIII, Section 11
Change the first sentence by taking out the word "annual".
Current Version: The annual election of Regents shall be by written ballot.
Proposed Version: The election of the Board of Regents shall be by written ballot.
Passed 1st vote in Louisville
91-2-0 97.8% approval margin
Approved 96 Against 0
Passed 2nd Vote

Unfinished Business Items Requiring a 2nd Vote
34. Herb B. - Area 5
Guidance Code, Article XIII, Section 12
Eliminate this section completely because it is the same as Article XIII, Section 3
Passed 1st vote in Louisville
92-1-0 98.9% approval margin
Approved 96 Against 0
Passed 2nd Vote

Unfinished Business Items Requiring a 2nd Vote
35. Richie S. - Area 6
Hosting an International Conference Pamphlet, Page 1 and 2 under Eligibility, Who can bid and when?
Current Version: Spring conferences in odd years are only open to Midwestern areas or Intergroups. Fall conferences in odd years are only open to western areas or Intergroups. Spring conferences in even years are only open to eastern areas or Intergroups. Fall conferences in even years are only open to southern areas or Intergroups. In the event no area bids for a certain conference that conference becomes an open conference and is open to bid by any area/Intergroup in any region of the North American continent at the next trustee meeting.
Proposed version: All International Conferences up for bid at a BOT meeting will be OPEN to all areas or Intergroups, in any region of the North American continent. There will not be any geographical restrictions on the Fall or Spring conferences of any year.
Passed 1st vote in Louisville
Passed 2nd Vote

Unfinished Business Items Requiring a 2nd Vote
36. John V. - Area 16
Group Handbook, Page 3, Public Relations Representative Add the following at the end of the existing text:
The Public Relations Representative should be available to guide any of the members in the group as to how to behave when doing any public relations work. An essential piece of understanding is that this person is not speaking as a representative of Gamblers Anonymous, but as a member of Gamblers Anonymous speaking about his or her own experience, strength and hope. The work of public relations is to carry the message to the compulsive gambler who still suffers. Doing so requires discipline as to how one should conduct oneself, always being conscious of maintaining anonymity. Anonymity, especially when appearing or functioning in the public eye, is not a subject for debate. It must be preserved at all cost. The person that is the subject of the interview must decide if they are speaking as a compulsive gambler or a member of Gamblers Anonymous. Both positions can make others aware of the problems associated with compulsive gambling, but how the interview is conducted is what dictates how the person being interviewed should act. If Gamblers Anonymous is never mentioned or referred to, then there are no restrictions on how the person should act or what is said. However, if the person being interviewed refers to him or herself as a member of Gamblers Anonymous in any way, the person's face cannot be shown, nor can the person's full name be used. Additionally, in such situations, Gamblers Anonymous literature cannot be visible, nor can a Gamblers Anonymous telephone hotline be displayed. Ideally, the person being interview might even want to use a different name, just to eliminate another possibility of someone identifying who he or she is.
Passed 1st vote in Louisville
Passed 2nd Vote

Unfinished Business Tabled Items from Louisville
37. Ron W. - Area 17
Should A GA Member, who is a paid/unpaid counselor, withhold information about GA from their client?
Item withdrawn.

Unfinished Business Tabled Items from Louisville
38. Ron W. - Area 17
Discuss Bettors Choice & Connecticut Council's Help Line.
Item withdrawn.

Unfinished Business Tabled Items from Louisville
39. Ara H. for Lanny R. - Area 1
Add "Twelve Steps of Recovery" as new literature.
Motion to accept above for a Merit Vote is pending
See attachment #39
Motion to accept above for a merit vote.
Failed

Unfinished Business Tabled Items from Louisville
40. David M. - Area 12
Hosting an International Conference, Page 1, Introduction, new sentences at the end of this section.
Any International Conference that does not receive bids at 2 successive physical Trustee meetings will be canceled. The Executive Board will be responsible for selecting a site to host just a Trustee meeting in lieu of the International Conference.
Passed 1st Vote

Conference Bids Conference Bids
41. Board of Trustees
The Fall 2012 Southern Conference is open for bids
San Diego was the only area presenting a bid for the above Conference. Motion to accept the above bid for the Fall 2012 Conference to be held October 19 – 21, 2012 at the Crown Plaza Hotel in San Diego, California.
Passed

New Business BOT Procedures
42. George G. - Area 15
To accept Colombia as a new trustee area. To have two trustees.
Motion to accept above.
Passed
This will be now be Area 33.

New Business BOT Procedures
43. George G. - Area 15
To accept Venezuela as a new area with one trustee
Motion to accept Venezuela as a new area with four Trustees.
Chair ruled the above motion out of order, being in violation of the Guidance Code. The Chair was then challenged and the vote on the challenge passes therefore the Chair is out of order and the motion in order.
Amendment to change to 1 Trustee.
Failed
On the motion.
Passed
This will now be Area 34.

New Business BOT Procedures
44. George G. - Area 15
To accept Paraguay as a new area with one trustee
Motion to accept above.
Passed
This will now be Area 35.

New Business BOT Procedures
45. Dina P. - Area 6B
Discuss the Caribbean areas that are part of Area 6B.
Discussion only.

New Business BOT Procedures
46. Martha G. and Rafael Z. - Area 28
Area 28 Mexico requests from the Gamblers Anonymous Board of Trustees the approval to establish a Regional Services Office according to the Article XI, Section 1 to 12 of the Guidance Code.
Motion to accept above.
Passed

New Business BOT Procedures
47. Martha G. and Rafael Z. - Area 28
Area 28 Mexico requests from the Gamblers Anonymous Board of Trustees the approval to translate into Spanish, print and sell Gamblers Anonymous approved literature according to the Article VIII Section 13A of the Guidance Code. We also request to be informed of all updates changes in literature when they happen.
Motion to accept above.
Passed

New Business BOT Procedures
48. Richie S. - Area 6
Discuss ideas and direction of the National Hotline
Motion to form a committee to research, formulate and recommend to the Board of Trustees a National Hotline system that will achieve the objectives set forth by the previous Hotline Committee. Denis M. asked for volunteers to be on this Committee and those responding are as follows: Gary S., Area 12; Benni F., Area 1; Jim H., Area 8; Bill S., Area 3B; Bill W., Area 15; Irwin S., Area 12; Roger L., Area 2; Chuck B., Area 10B; Sharon W., Area 2G; Michelle J., Area 8B; Richard C., Area 2K; Matty C., Area 12; Paul S., Area 17 and Doug E., Area 3A. The committee Chairperson will be selected and members will be informed who is on the committee within the next few weeks.

New Business BOT Procedures
49. Leo R. - Area 19
Area 19 would like to extend to 4 trustees in the area instead of 2
Motion to accept above.
Passed

New Business Combo Book
50. Alan J. - Area 15
Combo Book, Page 17, #7
Current Version; A Pressure Relief Group Meeting may help alleviate legal, financial, employment and personal pressures. Adherence to it will aid in your recovery.
Proposed Version: Pressure Relief Group Meeting will help alleviate legal, financial, employment and personal pressures. Adherence to it will aid in your recovery.
Motion to change Combo Book, Page 17, #7 to “A Pressure Relief Group Meeting will help alleviate legal, financial, employment and personal pressures. Adherence to it will aid in your recovery.
Failed

New Business Combo Book
51. Ron W. - Area 17
Combo Book, Page 17
OLD: To all Gamblers Anonymous members; particularly the new gamblers anonymous members.
PROPOSED NEW: To all Gamblers Anonymous members.
Motion to accept above.
Failed

New Business Combo Book
52. Ron W. - Area 17
Combo Book, Page 13
OLD: Our Gamblers Anonymous experience seems to point to these alternatives; to gamble risking progressive deterioration or not to gamble and develop a better way of life.
PROPOSED NEW: Our Gamblers Anonymous experience shows us that by not gambling and working the G.A. Program we will develop a better way of life. So work it your worth it. Motion to change Combo Book, Page 13 to Our Gamblers Anonymous experience shows us that by not gambling and working the G.A. Program we will develop a better way of life. So work it, you're worth it.
Failed

New Business Combo Book
53. Steve F. - Area 3D
Combo Book, Page 12
Current version: Borrowing and/or lending of money (bailouts) in Gamblers Anonymous is detrimental to our recovery and should not take place.
Proposed version: Borrowing and/or lending of money in Gamblers Anonymous to resolve or overcome financial burdens created while gambling is a bailout, is detrimental to our recovery, and should not take place.
Motion to change Combo Book, Page 12 to Borrowing and/or lending of money or bankruptcy in Gamblers Anonymous to resolve or overcome financial burdens created while gambling is a bailout, is detrimental to our recovery and should not take place.
Failed

New Business Combo Book
54. Brad B. for Tom C. - Area 14
Combo Book: Add the following couple of sentences in the empty space on the inside cover below the prayer.
Proposed addition: The compulsion to gamble is very difficult to control. Stop completely and there is no need to control it.
Motion to accept above.
Failed

New Business Combo Book
55. Brad B. for Tom C. - Area 14
Combo Book: Add the following couple of sentences in the empty space at the bottom of page 2.
Proposed addition: Don't gamble it's bad for your health. It's bad for your family’s health Motion to accept above.
Failed

New Business Combo Book
56. Brad B. for Tom C. - Area 14
Combo Book: Add the following couple of sentences in the empty space at the bottom of page 2.
Proposed addition: Don't gamble it's bad for your health. It's bad for your family’s health This is an exact duplicate of Item 55.

New Business Combo Book
57. Brad B. for Tom C. - Area 14
Combo Book: Add the following couple of sentences in the empty space at the bottom of page 3.
Proposed addition: When we needed help someone was there. Return the gift and be there for someone else when they need help.
Motion to accept above.
Failed

New Business Combo Book
58. Vincent B. for Chris S. - Area 12
Combo Book, Page 17, Item Number 3
Add: Participate in an exclusion program where available.
Current Version: Don't test or tempt yourself. Don't associate with acquaintances who gamble. Don't go in or near gambling establishments. Don't gamble for anything.
Proposed Version: Don't test or tempt yourself. Don't associate with acquaintances who gamble. Don't go in or near gambling establishments. Participate in an exclusion program where available. Don't gamble for anything.
Chair ruled this item out of order.

New Business Group Procedures
59. George G. - Area 15
Discussion only - Should verbal abuse be tolerated in Gamblers Anonymous
Chair ruled this item out of order.

New Business Group Procedures
60. Alan J. - Area 15
Discuss retention of members in the fellowship. Consider forming a committee to improve retention.
After a discussion on the above the Denis M. formed a committee and those who volunteered to be on the committee are Rick B., Area 6B; Doug E., Area 3A; Mike K., Area 7A; Joe B., Area 6C; Steve F., Area 3B; John D., Area 12; Mary C., Area 2J; Paul N., Area 2A; Tom Z., Area 14; Alan J., Area 15; Mike Y., Area 9; Kevin O., Area 13A Mary R., Area 14 and Bob F., Area 13A. The committee Chairperson will be selected and members will be informed who is on the committee within the next few weeks.

New Business Group Procedures
61. Leo R. - Area 19
Discussion: Can a member in a closed meeting ask another member to go outside the room and not hear his/her therapy?
Discussion only.

New Business Guidance Code
62. Linda S. - Area 3A
Guidance Code, Article VII, Groups
Add New Section 1A:
Meetings may be classified as special interest meetings; such as "Women Preferred," "Gay/Lesbian Preferred," "Men Preferred," etc. but no meeting can exclude other Gamblers Anonymous members who wish to attend who don't match the room preference. Motion to accept above.
Amendment “Meetings may be classified as special interest meetings....who wish to attend.”
Failed
On the motion.
Approved 84 Against 9
Passed 1st Vote

New Business Guidance Code
63. David M. - Area 12
Guidance Code, Article XVII, Area Location of Trustees
Add New Section 4:
Areas that have been unable to fill vacancies of Trustees allotted by the Board of Trustees after being vacant for three (3) consecutive Trustee meetings will forfeit those positions. However, a minimum of 1 Trustee vacancy will be permitted for each area if all its allotted Trustee positions are vacant and have been removed. Any affected area from such Trustee allocation forfeiture may request additional Trustees at the next regularly scheduled Trustee realignment, providing existing vacancies are filled at the time of the requests.
Item withdrawn.

New Business Guidance Code
64. Gary S. - Area 12
Guidance Code, Article VIII, Section 2
Adjust other section to follow.
RESPONSIBILITIES FOR INTERNATIONAL TRUSTEES OF GAMBLERS ANONYMOUS
See attachment #64
Motion to accept above.
Approved 38 Against 51
Failed

New Business ISO Procedures
65. Gary S. - Area 12
Discussion: About the removal of GA meetings off the Gamblers Anonymous Website.
Discussion only.

New Business ISO Procedures
66. Balazas M. for Eszter P. - Area 27
Hungary, Area 27, requests financial assistance to help with the translation of Red and Blue Books into Hungarian, for a total of $ 1,500
Motion to grant Area 27's (Hungary’s) request for financial assistance to help with the translation of Red and Blue Books into Hungarian for a total of $1,500.00.
Passed

New Business New Literature up for Merit Vote
67. Paul S. - Area 17
New Literature: Recommend the attached Treasury Guidelines be included in new group packages and be made available to all GA Groups.
See attachment #67
Motion to accept above for a Merit Vote.
Passed Merit Vote

New Business New Literature up for Merit Vote
68. Concetta B. - Area 13A
New Literature: Approve a pocket-sized card dealing with the urge to gamble.
See attachment #68
Motion to accept above for a Merit Vote.
Passed Merit Vote

New Business New Literature up for Merit Vote
69. Ralph D. - Area 6A
New Literature: Booklet entitled "Introduction to the Twelve Steps of Gamblers Anonymous"
See attachment #69
Motion to accept above for a Merit Vote.
Passed Merit Vote

New Business New Literature up for Merit Vote
70. Frank L. for Andy D. - Area 12
New GA Literature: Suggestions for a successful 90 day room.
See attachment #70
Motion to accept above for a Merit vote.
Passed Merit Vote

New Business New Literature up for Merit Vote
71. Leo R. - Area 19
New Literature: First Step of Recovery Steps Work Guide.
See attachment #71
Motion to accept above for a Merit Vote.
Approved 51 Against 55
Failed

New Business New Literature up for Merit Vote
72. Leo R. - Area 19
New Literature: Second Step of Recovery Steps Work Guide.
See attachment #72
Motion to accept above for a Merit Vote. The Chair was challenged that this item is out of order because it was taken from other Programs. The Chair ruled the item in order and a vote on the challenge was taken and fails 61 – 40 therefore the Chair is in order and so is the motion.
On the motion.
Failed

New Business New Literature up for Merit Vote
73. Leo R. - Area 19
New Literature: Third Step of Recovery Steps Work Guide.
See attachment #73
Item withdrawn.

New Business Other Literature
74. Norman B. - Area 10A
GAMBLERS ANONYMOUS WORKING THE STEPS PAMPHLET, STEP 3 (PAGES NOT NUMBERED) MIDDLE OF THE PAGE
CURRENT VERSION: When gambling ceases, a door closes on the past horrors, which you have survived. A visit to the past so you won't forget to dwell there brings remorse and self-pity, two deadly pitfalls for compulsive gamblers.
PROPOSED VERSION: When gambling ceases, a door closes on the past horrors, which you have survived. You must visit the past so you won't forget, but to dwell there brings remorse and self- pity, two deadly pitfalls for compulsive gamblers.
Motion to accept above.
Passed 1st Vote

New Business Other Literature
75. David M. - Area 12
Hosting an International Conference, Page 6, 2nd paragraph. 3rd sentence.
Change percentage split of profits
Current version: In the event of a profit the proceeds are divided with 55% going to GA ISO and 45% going to Gam-Anon.
Proposed version: In the event of a profit proceeds are divided between GA ISO and Gam-Anon in a percentage equal to the number of attendees from each Fellowship.
Motion to table.
Failed
Motion to accept above.
Approved 55 Against 55
A roll call vote was requested.
Approved 56 Against 51 Abst. 7
Passed 1st Vote

New Business Overseas Issues
76. Vera T. - Area 23A
Trustee Attendance - International Areas
Discussion regarding a revision by the ISO of the two-consecutive Annual Meetings rule as established in the Code of Conduct for international trustees, accepting the absence, as long as justifiable, in no more than 3-consecutive meetings.
Motion to table.
Passed

New Business Overseas Issues
77. Leo R. - Area 19
Area 19 (Argentina): Report of Argentina. And Hispanic American Conference report. Leo R. talked about Argentina and the progress that has been made since G.A. started there. They currently have 162 meetings. He also reported on the first Hispanic American Conference held last April, stating that there were 270 G.A. members and 50 Gam-Anon members in attendance. Leo's report was given in Spanish and was simultaneously translated by Juan A. from Area 6B.

Items omitted for the Agenda 78. By-Law Change
Benni F., Board of Regents, Area 1
By-Law for Article III, Section 5.
The following changes were proposed and will take effect when concurred with by the Board of Trustees.
Article III, Section 5
In the event an individual elected to the Board of Regents is unable to fulfill that position, he or she will be replaced by the next highest vote receiver from the election previously conducted by the Board of Trustees, for appropriate area.
If there are no individuals available to fulfill such term, the Board of Regents will submit a list of names to the Executive Board of the Board of Trustees.
The Executive Board shall, within 30 days, select an individual to fill such vacancy. The newly selected member will serve out the balance of the vacated term.
Motion to accept above.
Passed 1st Vote

The meeting was closed with the Serenity Prayer at 4:45 P.M. on Friday, October 29, 2010. The collection for the five (5) sessions was $924.35.

The next meeting of the Board of Trustees will be held May 5, 2011 at 10:00 A.M. in Cherry Hill, New Jersey.

Respectfully submitted,

Karen H.

International Executive Secretary