Hello Area 46,
I’m looking forward to seeing everyone at our next Area Assembly, December 7-8, hosted by District 14 in Taos. In addition to conducting area business, the budget for 2025 will be submitted for approval. All assembly details, including a link to register can be found at https://dev.aa-nia.org/service/assembly-info/upcoming-assembly/.
I am hopeful that by the time this edition is published, Christoph and I will have a trusted servant lined up to stand for disapproval as our new El Farolito Editor for 2025-2027. If this is not the case, we will continue to actively seek the right person for the job – while also considering whether the off-rotation schedule is more of a liability when it comes to establishing a pool of available candidates. If you are interested in the El Farolito Editor position, or know anyone who may be willing to serve in this role, please have them contact us as soon as possible.
At the upcoming assembly in Taos, Area 46 will entertain bids from Districts to host the December 2025 Assembly. Bids for 2026 assemblies to be held in March, August, and December are also welcome. We know that hosting an assembly can seem daunting and there are many hurdles to overcome, particularly finding a venue and funding. However, we have seen many hosting districts have success, growth, and unity through participation when they take on this commitment.
The Area is currently exploring ways to make hosting an assembly perhaps more manageable and affordable. It is likely our 2025 budget will increase the assembly hosting funds from $1200 to $2000. Our October Assembly Planning Workshop centered around brainstorming solutions and minutes are available by request. This will obviously be an ongoing conversation, and we welcome any feedback that may help set us in the right direction. We are also open to comments that may reveal other reasons why Districts may find bidding for assemblies difficult or unattractive.
If your District is interested in hosting an assembly or would like more information, please contact Christoph or me. We want to hear from you and your groups, and we are here to help and support along the way.
I am continuing to liaise with all Central Offices/Intergroups and AA entities performing similar functions within Area 46. I appreciate the opportunity to participate and learn more through these connections.
You can reach me at altchair@dev.aa-nia.org if you or your committee need any support.
In Love & Service,
Laura S.
Area 46 Alt. Chair