(Hyperlinks in this archive may no longer work and other information may be obsolete)

LifeRing Press Publishes 

Recovery By Choice Workbook

The Recovery By Choice workbook that LifeRing Press announced several months ago is now on sale.    

The workbook is an open-ended manual for people who want to build individual recovery programs for abstinence from alcohol and drugs.  The concept behind the workbook arose out of the "small-p program" method outlined in the LifeRing Handbook.  That is, LifeRing does not require participants to adhere to any particular Big-P Program for remaining abstinent, such as the 12 Steps.  The LifeRing approach is, rather, to support each individual in putting together a personal recovery plan that works to keep them abstinent, taking into account each person's particular history, culture, personality, and preferences.  During its Focus Group development, the workbook bore the working title "My Personal Recovery Plan."   

The workbook contains dozens of checklists and worksheets, as well as open-ended questions, covering such areas as the body, exposure, activities, people, feelings, life style, personal history, culture, treatment and support groups, and relapse prevention.  The workbook's main method is to raise questions and present choices.  The material is drawn mainly from author Marty N.'s experience in nearly one thousand LifeRing meetings in a variety of settings.  The book also draws on evidence-based treatment approaches in the literature.  

The workbook underwent four months of testing in a Focus Group consisting mainly of people in early recovery at an outpatient treatment center in Oakland, CA.  Some sections were tested with patients in a residential inpatient center as well.  The current "beta" edition includes a feedback form, and continues to evolve as input is received.

The workbook is 300+ full-sized pages, spiral-bound to lay flat.  The book answers a persistent call from people in early recovery who have said that they want to create a secular, free-choice recovery plan in a more structured way than was previously possible -- they wanted a LifeRing workbook.  The book is suitable as bibliotherapy either solo or in a group setting.  

The book's full title is Recovery By Choice:  Living and Enjoying Life Without Alcohol and Drugs -- A Workbook.  It costs $20 plus $4.50 S&H from LifeRing Press, online at www.lifering.com.   (11/20?/01)

"Resources for Convenors"

Brochure is Updated

The LifeRing brochure "Resources for Convenors" -- subtitled "All you need is determination and a computer"  -- has been updated to reflect recent new LifeRing Press publications.  The updated version of the brochures is now available as a download in PDF format (you need the free Adobe Acrobat reader to read it).  Print copies of the brochures will be available from the LifeRing Secular Recovery Service Center shortly.  Click to download PDF brochure.  

LifeRing Convenors' Web Site

Gets New Public Front Page 

Starting Dec. 26, the LifeRing convenors' web site, lifering.org, has a new, public front page.  Up to now, all of lifering.org lay behind a dialog box requiring a user id and password.  Public information about the LSR organization was scattered between www.lifering.com and www.unhooked.com or unavailable.  

The new www.lifering.org front page comes up for the general public without a user id or password, and pulls together in one place the most frequently requested information about LSR as an organization, such as contact addresses, basic structure, history, and upcoming events.  

On the new front page is a hyperlink that gets the user who has the user id and password into The LifeRing, the internal newsletter for LSR convenors.  Thus The LifeRing continues to be confidential and protected, as before, so that convenors can share experiences and, if necessary, wash dirty laundry, in our own screened private space without feeling like we're operating in a fish bowl.  

Information on www.lifering.com and www.unhooked.com that described the LifeRing organization has been or is being moved and consolidated on the new www.lifering.org front page.  

If you are a LifeRing convenor, you can obtain a password to The LifeRing internal newsletter by sending a brief note to [...] 

-- Marty N. 12/27/00

Meeting in Half Moon Bay CA

Invites Newcomers to "Tea Party"

I host a Half Moon Bay meeting at 10 a.m. on Thursdays in my living room. Formally, we are the self-named Coastside Secular Sobriety Society. We found each other through Tom Shelley's list and personal referrals. Informally, we call it The Elephant's Tea Party*. Our group is small, casual, often irreverent and always fun. We sip tea, munch goodies and talk real. I am ready to receive (and screen) calls at 650.726.6164 and emails at sallyL@slip.net.

I am also looking for a space to hold an evening or weekend meeting to accommodate working people, so contact me if you have an interest. I am committed to getting more LifeRing meetings going nearby because I personally want the group support and some new friends/kindred spirits who prefer a secular approach to sobriety.

*I canceled a meeting once because I relapsed. At the next week's meeting, There Was An Elephant In The Room. The air was thick with the truth we avoided by being polite and making small talk; that old, familiar feeling of hiding "the secret," hiding from each other, hiding from ourselves.

We finally acknowledged The Elephant. We talked and talked and talked. It was good for me and good for the group; we went pretty deep and it brought us closer. We pretended not to notice when the elephant slipped out the door, but we couldn't help but smile as we heard the door close behind her. And then we had more tea.

-- Sally L.

LifeRing Secular Recovery

Congress Set for Feb. 16-18 

The first and constitutional congress of LifeRing Secular Recovery will take place on Feb. 16-18 2001 in Brookville, FL, near the Tampa-St. Petersburg metro area.  Among the orders of business will be discussion and adoption of a democratic internal structure for the LifeRing Secular Recovery organization.  For further program details, contact Tom Shelley, program director, tshelley@gte.net. 

Meeting To Start

In Scottsdale, AZ 

Greg G from Scottsdale:  I'd like to start a meeting here on Wednesday evenings at 6:30.  I'm looking at a location near the intersection of Shea and Scottsdale Rd. and hope to have it started in a couple of weeks.  My phone number is 480-945-7255; or contact me by email.  I have the literature from the site and am excited to get this thing started.  

Oakland CA Convenors' Round Table

Rescheduled from Oct. 22 to Nov. 4

The Convenors' Round Table in Oakland CA originally calendared for Oct. 22 has been rescheduled to Nov. 4.  For further information telephone the LSR Service Center at 510-763-0779 or email service@lifering.org. 

Pittsburgh PA LifeRing

To Hold Its First Meeting

The LifeRing Secular Recovery group in Pittsburgh PA will commence Wednesday evening meetings this week at 7:30 p.m. at the Holiday Inn in the East End, across the street from the Cathedral of Learning.   For further information contact Bill at 412-824-7650.   (10/8/00)

LSR (Un)covered in W

If hordes of elegantly dressed women begin to arrive in LifeRing meetings this month, credit W magazine, the slick 400-page showcase for the likes of Armani, Ralph Lauren, and Dior.  In a cover article in the Oct. 10 issue, titled "Are You a Social Alcoholic -- The Beautiful and the Wasted," contributing editor Karen Moline writes on p. 228:  

"If you or someone you know has a drinking problem, there are a few options for help:  support groups, treatment centers and addiction psychiatrists.  The best known group is Alcoholics Anonymous [...].  However, A.A.'s emphasis on religion is a deterrent to some; in that case, try LifeRing Secular Recovery (510.763.0779, www.unhooked.com), an international 12-step organization that is strictly non-religious."  

Well, we don't do the 12 steps but W got the rest right, and at least one new meeting is already taking shape because of the article.                                                                   -- Marty N. 10/5/00

New Book Introduces LifeRing

To Treatment Professionals

Oct. 2. -- LifeRing Press of Oakland CA today published a new paperback book aimed at introducing LifeRing Secular Recovery to chemical dependency treatment professionals.  Titled Presenting LifeRing Secular Recovery, a Selection of Readings for Treatment Professionals, the work contains letters of recommendation, answers to frequently asked questions, and a series of essays that show where LifeRing fits in the history and the contemporary spectrum of treatment and recovery modalities.  The 88 p. paperback can be ordered online via www.lifering.com.  More details about the book.  Table of Contents.  Order Form.

New Meeting Underway
In Houston, TX Area

 

A new meeting has begun in Houston and is at a halfway house on the northeast side of the city. The particulars are as follows.  
Place: Cheyenne Center, 9100 Dodson, Houston, Texas. Phone 713 691-4898
Day: Wednesday 
Time: 8 PM 
Convener: Jerry Patterson, goldbug@flash.net  
We are experiencing 12 to 20 participants at each meeting and have been in operation for three weeks now and future looks good. 
The Houston area is rife for other meetings but I do not have the time to get them started and am encouraging others to take that effort on. I am getting at least one e-mail a week asking about a meeting in the area and am passing this info on to others in the area. 
Jerry Patterson

9/29/00

Two Convenors' Workshops 

Scheduled in S.F. Bay Area

Two convenors' workshops have been scheduled in Oakland CA.  The first will be held Saturday Sept. 30 and the second on Oct. 22.  Nov. 4.  Both will be held at 969 Broadway, downtown Oakland (at the Kaiser Chemical Dependency Recovery Program).  

The Sept. 30 workshop will be the introductory format covering the philosophy of LifeRing Secular Recovery and the role of the convenor.  This workshop is aimed at people who are considering becoming convenors at some time in the future, and those who want to brush up on their convenor skills.  People who just want a more in-depth introduction to the LifeRing recovery approach also have found these events useful.  

The Oct. 22 Nov. 4 event will be a convenors' round table (intergroup meeting) with its topic the LSR Constitutional Congress coming up next Jan. 26-28 in Florida.  

Both workshops will take place from 9 a.m. to noon.  The location is upstairs from the Smart & Final store on Broadway between 9th and 10th Streets, a block from the Oakland City Center / 12th St. BART station.  

-- MWJ 9/23/00

New San Francisco Meeting 

In Haight-Ashbury District

 

A new LifeRing Secular Recovery meeting will start Thursday nights at 7:30 p.m. in the Haight-Ashbury neighborhood of San Francisco.  The address is 529 Clayton Street.  The founding convenor is Gillian E.  This is the third LifeRing meeting in San Francisco.  (9/20/00)

Help Wanted to Start Meeting

In Toronto ON Canada

I've established an e-mail address for LSR in Toronto, lsrtoronto@canada.com.  If anyone wants to help organize a new LSR meeting here or has any ideas that might help, please e-mail this address. -- Geoff R.  (9/16/00)

New Thursday Evening Meeting

At Kaiser CDRP in Oakland CA

A new LifeRing S.R. meeting will start this week on Thursday evenings at the Kaiser Permanente Chemical Dependency Recovery Program in Oakland CA, located at 969 Broadway (upstairs from Smart & Final).  The time is 7:30 - 8:30 p.m.  The founding convenor is Robbin L., convenor of the Saturday morning meeting at that facility and co-convenor of the Wednesday evening meeting at Merritt-Peralta Institute in Oakland.  (9/12/00)

Help Wanted to Start LSR Meeting

In Ottawa-Hull, Ontario, Canada

I am interested in starting a Life Ring group in the Ottawa-Hull region, Ontario, Canada.  Please contact Marc, stdenism@yahoo.com 

New Denver CO LifeRing Group

Meets Last Wednesday of Month

Meetings are now scheduled each month during the last Wednesday of the month at the Denver Public Library, 14th Street and Broadway, 6:30 to 8:00 pm, 2nd Floor Meeting Room.  Take the escalator up and turn left.  You can't miss it!  Contact Rod N. at arkark45@hotmail.com for more information.   (9/2/00)

Missoula Secular Sobriety Society

Joins LifeRing Secular Recovery

The Missoula Secular Sobriety Society (MSSS) has voted to become a charter member of LifeRing Secular Recovery, convenor Ben G. writes.  "We are all in agreement that our personal as well as group approach to recovery must remain active rather than passive.... We all feel a connectedness within our recovery by being part of a larger organization....  All attendees of MSSS meetings celebrate the empowerment concept of recovery. It has been quite satisfying for me to see individuals grow by combining their beliefs and values with a priority toward sobriety.... As a convenor, as in life, I intend to remain very active. Sobriety has provided me a motivation and drive.... I, personally, am excited by the thought of promoting recovery with the structure of LifeRing as an ally.... We at Missoula Secular Sobriety Society are quite taken by the LifeRing name and logo.... We will be changing our group name.  Missoula LifeRing Secular Recovery seems to be the most agreeable. Please utilize this name change with any meeting listings."  Click for the Missoula meeting schedule.  

LifeRing at U of Nevada

Starts Monday September 11  

 

The first LifeRing meeting in Las Vegas will start Monday Sept. 11, and every Monday thereafter, from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. in Room 254C of the Student Services Complex, Jean Nidetch Women's Center.  (Park at the Thomas & Mack parking lot).  For further information contact convenor Jason H., jbh@nevada.edu  Click for flyer with map and for small handout (both in MS Word format).

Second New Jersey Meeting

Starts in Sea Isle City School 

The second LifeRing recovery meeting in New Jersey will start on Thursday Aug. 24 at 7:30 p.m.,  Sea Isle City Public School, 46th and Park Road, Sea Isle City.  The group will meet in the library room, and the meeting will take place each Thursday thereafter.   For further information contact Kathleen O., lilly@avaloninternet.net or phone 609-263-2478.  (8/21/00)

LifeRing Planning Meeting

Set for 8/30 in Denver Library

LifeRing Press Set To Publish

Book for Treatment Professionals

In September, LifeRing Press will publish Presenting LifeRing Secular Recovery: A Selection of Readings for Treatment Professionals.  The new 88-p. paperback is a brief introduction to the LifeRing theory of recovery and contains readings about the history of the LifeRing recovery concept, its place in the array of modern treatment methods, and some of its implications for clinical practice.  It also contains recent letters of reference.  The main purpose of the book is to allow persons working professionally in the chemical dependency field to become better acquainted with the LifeRing approach and to encourage professionals to refer clients to LifeRing support groups.  Advance orders for the book can be placed on the web site of LifeRing Press, www.lifering.com.  (8/15/00)

Cincinnati LifeRing

Coming Nearer

Richard B. writes that three people met over lunch this week to lay plans for the Cincinnati LifeRing meeting, and hope to get a venue in a downtown hospital.  For more information, please contact richard@blumberg.org (8/14/00)

LifeRing Coming 

To Louisville KY

I am looking for someone in the Louisville, Kentucky area to help initiate a LifeRing meeting. Contact Cynthia at email address moonlight501@netzero.net.  (8/7/00)

To Start LifeRing Meeting

Near UNLV in Las Vegas 

I'm in Las Vegas and interested in starting a LifeRing Recovery group at or near UNLV.  Anyone want to help?  Contact jason420@yahoo.com.   (8/3/00)

First Minnesota Meeting

Draws Local Press Notice

The new Friday night Rochester MN meeting (see below) drew advance notice in the local press, as the Rochester Post-Bulletin published a story announcing the event, based on an interview with the meeting's founder, Roger Levering.  Click for text of story.  

LifeRing Coming 

to Pittsburgh PA

I would like to start up LifeRing meetings here in Pittsburgh. My colleague, Bill M., has agreed to be co-convenor with me, starting a meeting in the Northern portion of our area, then breaking off where he will convene an Eastern meeting.  I am a newly recovering alcoholic. I am a social worker by profession, and I'm very interested in starting these meetings. I felt, upon reading the information, I finally found the type of support I had been seeking for years. I lead many groups in my position, and very much enjoy it.... Please post our meeting as "under construction."  Contact Bill M., PITNews1@aol.com.    (7/16/00, updated 8/30)

Rochester, MN Group

Finds a Meeting Room

 Roger L. (science5495@home.com) writes:  Rochester's LSR "meeting under construction" now has a room to meet in. It's Conference Room A of the United Way Services Building, at 903 West Center Street in Rochester, Minnesota. Access is through the north-side door.

The room is available on Friday evenings only, and I just picked 8:00 P.M. The time could be changed a little later if we want to. The first meeting will be on July 21st.

Here we go!  

LifeRing in New Jersey

Holds Its First Meeting 

Kathleen from the Cape May area writes:  We had the first official Lifering meeting in New Jersey last night. It was held at a home but we are in the process of looking for a space to rent. We had 3 people last night but we already know of at least 9 others that will be interested. Our next meeting will be at a local restaurant to further discuss our group. Would you please add my phone number 609-263-2478 to my ad under meetings. I will let you know when we find our space.  (7/8/00)

LifeRing Board Sets Date, Place

of Constitutional Convention 

The Constitutional Convention of LifeRing Secular Recovery will take place the weekend of January 26-28, Feb. 16-18 2001, at the U.U. in the Pines retreat center near St. Petersburg, Florida.  The date and venue were set by the Board of Directors of LifeRing Inc. at its meeting June 25 (amended 11/2/00).  The Board also amended the bylaws of LifeRing Inc. to expand the Board of Directors from five to seven members.  Tom Shelley of St. Petersburg and Marjorie Jones of Oakland were elected to the newly created positions.   

Get Together

In Denver CO 

Rodney N. writes: Is there anyone in Denver who would like to discuss getting together? Future organized meetings might be a possibility later on. However, right now just getting a few people together would be a good start. Email me at arkark45@hotmail.com.  (6/27/00)

New LSR Meeting Soon 

In Rochester, Minnesota 

Roger L. writes:  I will be starting a meeting in Rochester, Minnesota as soon as possible.  The contact e-mail address is science5495@home.com.  (6/20/00)

Dr. Jean Kirkpatrick 

Founder of Women for Sobriety

Dies at 77 in Pennsylvania

From The Morning Call (Allentown, PA)

Dr. Jean Kirkpatrick, 77, of Quakertown, died Monday, June 19, in Grand View Hospital, West Rockhill Township.

A sociologist and author, her writing appeared in Vogue and Today's Woman, and in several scholarly journals such as Alcoholism and Health World, published by the National Institute of Alcoholism.

She appeared on numerous radio and television shows including The Today Show, Phil Donohue Show, Good Morning America and To Tell The Truth.

She wrote three books, 'Turnabout: Help for a New Life'; 'A Fresh Start', which recounts her recovery and how the organization of Women For Sobriety began; and 'Goodbye Hangovers, Hello Life' (Self Help for Women).

In 1975 she founded the national self-help program, Women For Sobriety Inc., (New Life) for recovering women alcoholics.

The organization received coverage in Woman's Day magazine and in articles in United Press International, Parents Without Partners and The Washington Post, which led the New life Program being broadcast behind the Iron Curtain by the Voice of America.

She was called to testify on several occasions as an expert witness on women and alcoholism before several Senate committees, and had speaking engagements across the country and overseas.

She was a graduate of Moravian College with a degree in sociology. She received her master's from Lehigh University and her doctorate from the University of Pennsylvania. She was awarded the Raymond Haupert Humanitarian Award from Moravian College.

She was named Woman of the Year by the Business and Professional Women, and is listed in Who's Who Among Women.

Born in Quakertown, she was a daughter of the late Peter C. and Helen (Spangler) Romig.

She was a member of Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church, Quakertown.

Founder of Moderation Management

Accused of Drunk Driving in Fatal Crash

Audrey Kishline, author of the book Moderate Drinking and founder of  the organization based on it, Moderation Management, has been charged with vehicular homicide and drunk driving in a car crash that killed a father and his twelve-year old daughter near Seattle, WA.  Kishline had been a prominent critic of abstinence-based approaches to problem drinking.  Her attorney said that Kishline has repudiated her book and now says that "moderation management is nothing but alcoholics covering up their problem," according to a story in the June 17, 2000, Seattle Times.   Click for details.

New LifeRing S.R. Meeting

Opens Wednesdays in Detroit

Terry N. writes that he has found a location in Metro Detroit and invites all interested persons to join him at the new LifeRing Secular Recovery meeting Wednesdays at 5:30 p.m. at the Garden City Hospital, Community Education Center, 6701 Harrison Ave., Garden City, MI 48135.  Look for Classroom No. 5.  Contact Terry N., rt5cents@yahoo.com, tel. 734-753-4020.   (6/9/00)

John E. writes:  I am proud to announce that the Georgian Bay Meeting of LifeRing Secular Recovery is available every Thursday evening at 7:30 P.M. at the Grey Bruce Withdrawal Management Services (commonly known as the Detox) at 495 9th Avenue East Owen Sound Ontario Canada. Tel: 519 376-5666 Fax: 519 376-7366. 

The Georgian Bay meeting has been made available since Oct 1999 and after eight months of Secular activity we have been going strong and have a average turn out of 12 Secular enthusiasts. We are now starting a new phase of growth where members are now comfortable with the meeting format and are taking the role of preparing for service positions within the group. Being a staff member @ W.M.S who believes in alternative choices for individuals it is good to see that some of the treatment community in our area are starting to be taken to task about allowing their clients and residents to have a secular approach available for a self help option. Being a professional and member myself I really enjoy advocating on behalf of the LSR approach and most importantly the people who opt for an alternative approach that works for them. It is very empowering to see individuals taking charge of their lives after having years of being told that they were powerless. Well, just some kudos to show our enthusiasm.  

You can contact me @ jdstone1@hotmail.com  for more info if needed.  (6/8/00)

Meeting Starting 

In Ocean City MD

Shirley B. of Ocean City MD writes:  My intent is to plaster the town (oops, been there, done that) with the brochures you have so kindly provided on the web site.   [http://www.unhooked.com/lsr/index.html]  Dr's offices, the shelters, the courthouse, libraries, etc., etc., etc.and see if I can shake out any interest. Don't know why I let this name/organizational change thing put me in limbo on this, but I feel recharged again so off I go.  Contact SBarber@prodigy.net 410-524-2358.  

LifeRing Inc. Board of Directors

Calls for Constitutional Convention

The Board of Directors of LifeRing Inc. met May 28, 2000, and announced plans to hold a nationwide constitutional convention for LifeRing Secular Recovery (LSR) this coming winter, probably in Florida.  The exact time and place will be announced shortly.    

The Board also elected Bill Somers of Oakland CA a member to fill the seat vacated by director Ron Crane of Los Angeles, who is withdrawing to private life.  The Board expressed its deep appreciation to Ron for his outstanding contributions and leadership and wished him well.  -- Marty N. 5/28/00

LifeRing Recovery Introductory Workshop

Set for Saturday, June 17 in Oakland

The third in a series of Introduction to LifeRing Recovery Workshops (also known as "Convenor 101") will be held in Oakland on Saturday morning, June 17, 2000.  The location is 969 Broadway (the Kaiser CDRP facility upstairs from Smart & Final).  The event begins at 9 sharp and ends no later than noon.  There is no charge.  This workshop is for anyone wanting a more in-depth discussion of the LifeRing Recovery process, especially for people interested in "giving something back" by becoming LSR convenors.  For further information please contact the LSR Service Center at 510-763-0779 or email service@lifering.org  

LifeRing Convenors' Round Table

and Intergroup Meeting 

Held in Oakland May 27

A three-hour LifeRing Secular Recovery Convenors' Round Table and local area Intergroup Meeting was held on Saturday morning May 27 in downtown Oakland.  The first part of the meeting featured open discussion of practical issues faced by meeting leaders, such as choice of meeting formats and topics, handling problem situations, and balancing convenor and group priorities.  In the second part of the meeting there was a report on and discussion of organizational issues and a financial report.  In the concluding portion, participants discussed starting new meetings.   -- Marty N. 5/28/00

Chris from OR writes:  "I'm interested in starting a meeting in the Eugene/Springfield Oregon area, and would like to know if anyone else in my region is interested as well.  Please email me at christopher_68@spinfinder.com "  (5/16/00)

LifeRing Secular Recovery has received a letter of recommendation from the Day Treatment Coordinator of the Kaiser Permanente Chemical Dependency Recovery Program in Oakland, CA.  This is a facility where LifeRing meetings have been running side by side with AA and NA meetings for over a year.  Program participants have to attend one of the three, their choice.  The letter says, among other things, that "I am happy to state that LifeRing has always been able to coexist harmoniously with other support meetings. Patients report being satisfied with the format and some say they attend LifeRing and 12-step support meetings. I am happy to recommend LifeRing to any drug treatment program."  Click for complete text.

Jim C. from Santa Fe NM writes:  There are now five people in our secular sobriety group which has been meeting weekly since October. I'm very happy to say that none of us has fallen off the wagon during this time. 

By agreement, our meetings are not limited to one hour and they often run an hour and a half and occasionally 2 hours after which we all go to dinner at one of the local restaurants for another hour or two. Needless to say, we enjoy our discussions and each others company immensely. We've even begun going on day trips together. 

I think that most of us find the doctrine-free, open meeting format much more interesting and satisfying than the 12-step routine. I know I do. Our meetings begin with 10 or 15 minutes of informal conversation about things of interest we've encountered during the week and then one of us chooses a topic for discussion. The discussion often ranges far from the topic but none of us seems to mind. Three of us still attend 12-step meetings. I myself find that since I've become comfortable in our secular group, the rigidity of the 12-step format and doctrine has become intolerable to me so I no longer attend. 

One of our members has volunteered her larger house for meetings, and so we are presently looking for a few more members for our 6PM Thursday group. Also, we have decided to run an ad in the "meetings" section of our local paper to attract others who might be having trouble with the 12-step approach. It is my hope to eventually have several secular groups active in Santa Fe. My phone number is 505-474-4177 and my email is still kdgroup@hotmail.com 

Anyone interested in starting a LifeRing Recovery meeting in the Cincinnati/Dayton OH area, please contact zanthope@maingate.com.  Thanks.

Letter of Recommendation for LifeRing

From Hospital Dual Diagnosis Crisis Ward

LifeRing has received a letter of recommendation for its weekly meeting in the dual diagnosis crisis ward of Herrick/Alta Bates Hospital in Berkeley, CA.  Jane Haggstrum, R.N., Ph.D., Patient Care Manager in the 4N unit, wrote in an April 5, 2000, letter, in part:    

"The LifeRing group approach encourages patients to look within themselves and to each other for the strength to achieve abstinence and a healthier life style. Unlike the more traditional Alcoholics Anonymous approach, Life Ring does not use the concept "Higher Power" or the "12 Steps of Alcoholic's Anonymous." The philosophy and methods of LifeRing were developed as an alternative to AA for those people who need tools for recovery but have personal difficulty embracing the concept of "Higher Power." We have found that this approach encourages patients to begin to think positively about themselves and to find a reason to live productively. This approach resonates with the significant portion of our patients on 4 North who have received little or no benefit from past 12-Step involvement.      

"Although the Life Ring group's philosophy is different from the 12-Step model, we have not experienced any friction or strife as a result of adding the LifeRing meeting. We also offer AA to our patients . Our treatment team believes that there are many viable paths to recovery, LifeRing being one very positive adjunct to our traditional offerings. The LifeRing meeting is a bright spot in the patients' week, and staff find that participation in the meeting enhances patients' motivation to get well.   

"Based on our experiences at this facility over the past two years, on behalf of the treatment team on 4 North, we would recommend similar LifeRing meetings to other facilities interested in expanding the range of their patient services."  

For a scanned image of the letter, click here.  

Meeting Under Construction 

In Montreal, Quebec, in French  

Nancy G., the former convenor of the Tuesday night Oakland meeting,  died March 12 at her home in San Leandro, CA.  Nancy participated in the Kaiser CDRP program in Oakland and began to attend the LifeRing (then SOS)  meeting there early in her sobriety.  She was a regular participant and rarely missed a meeting, despite often having to take public transportation and not feeling well.  When she was more than one year clean and sober,  she became secretary of the meeting.  Meeting attendance was at a  temporary ebb during this period, and she kept the meeting alive during its most difficult days.  Her courage and her soft-spoken sharing were an  inspiration to all who knew her.  Thanks largely to Nancy's tenacity, the Tuesday night Oakland meeting revived and is one of the most active local LifeRing meetings today.    

Nancy got sober three years ago directly after she suffered a severe attack of liver disease due to heavy drinking.  She remained sober thereafter, but it was too late.  Her liver did not recover, and because of other complications she was not a transplant candidate.  In early March, physicians told her that her liver had stopped working and that she had less than six months.  She died a few days afterward.  She was sober at her death, surrounded by her husband Joe and her sister Sue and other friends and relatives, listening to her favorite music.    

There will be a memorial service for Nancy at the Central Methodist Church in Sacramento, where her family of origin lives, on Saturday April 22 at 2 pm.  Nancy will be missed and remembered by all of us who had the privilege to know her.     -- Marty N.  3/25/00

Help Wanted to Start Meeting

In Montclair, New Jersey

Renee from Montclair, N.J., writes that she wants to start a LifeRing meeting there.  Anyone interested please contact Renee sproston@excite.com or (973) 239-6054  (3/22/00 updated 4/23/00).

Rhode Island Is Back on Map

With Thursday Night Meeting 

Annette G. writes:  "Just a note to let you know the risobriety secular recovery support group will be meeting thursday the 23rd [of March 2000] at 6 p m, at the providence center 520 hope street, rm 230. contact: annette 724-7798."  (3/17/00)

First Meeting in San Jose CA Area

Opens March 22 at Medical Center

The first LifeRing meeting in the San Jose CA area will open Wednesday March 22, 2000, at the Santa Clara Valley Medical Center.  The meeting will convene from 7 to 8:30 p.m. in the administration conference room of the Administration Building.  Frazer E., the meeting's founder, writes that the Medical Center is 751 South Bascom.  Enter at Renova Drive.  You will see a six story building on the left.  That is the Administration Building.  Go through the lobby and take the first left in the hallway.  Contact Frazer at lsrofsantaclara@onebox.com.  

Convenor's Round Table 
Set for Sunday April 23 
(New date, new location)

A Convenor's Round Table is calendared for Sunday, April 23, 2000, from 12:30 to 3:00 p.m. in Richmond CA, at the Kaiser Hospital complex on 901 Nevin.  The exact location is Medical Office Building 2, take Elevator C to Third Floor, Conference Room 1.  (Date and place changed from March 25, Oakland).  This will be an open discussion of current area-wide convenor issues, including the current status of meetings, issues arising from meetings, structure and internal process of LifeRing, support and expansion of meetings, and any other issues that a convenor brings to the table.  People in current service positions in ongoing meetings or who are planning to start  meetings in the near future are invited.  

The call for the Round Table came out of the convenor's training workshops.  The second workshop on Feb. 26 discussed the convenor's role and the basic recovery process that takes place in self-help meetings, much like the workshop held Nov. 6, click for report.  In attendance were Laurie, Samantha, Dan, Bill, Larry, Gary, and Marty.  

A new LifeRing meeting in San Francisco will start on Leap Day, Feb. 29, 2000.  The day is Tuesdays, the time is 7:30--8:30 p.m., and the place is the Noe Valley Ministry, 1021 Sanchez, in the Noe Valley / Mission District neighborhood.  The founder and first secretary is Gary E., who started his LifeRing recovery with the Monday night San Francisco meeting at Kaiser on Fillmore.  The Noe Valley Ministry is a Presbyterian church with a long history of community involvement and service.  Its facilities are host to numerous community groups as well as to jazz, folk, experimental and chamber music concerts.    

Thanks to everyone who attended the MARC in Morgantown on February 18-19. For me, though we didn't have a huge turnout, it was a huge success. Like the Berkeley convention, these get-togethers always leave me charged up and glad that there are such wonderful friends in our group, and it is even better when we can meet face to face and enjoy each others' company. 

In attendance were Marty N., Shirley B., Betts, Bill M., Ed C., and Craig M., along with John, Betts's husband, and Robert, Shirleys' husband. We were joined Saturday by Heidi L., from Clarksburg WV and Chuck T., an old friend who's in aa from Morgantown, WV. By the pictures you would think all we did was eat, but Chuck showed up just in time for lunch with the digital camera, so these are what we have [click for photos page]. 

The food was good, and quite a few indulged in our Appalachian delicacy, ramps. We had some very good discussions, and I truly hope everyone enjoyed themselves. Yes, I hope to do this again in the spring of 2001, probably April, unless someone out there beats me to the punch. For those who could not make it, I hope to see you next time. It may not be better, but it will be bigger. As our organization grows, so grow the celebrations. 

And, for those who couldn't make it but would like a little memento for your collection, I have Tee shirts available, as pictured on yours truly in the group photo. There are about 10 XL, 5 L, and 4 M sizes left. These were done by my old friend and wonderful graphic artist Butch Lee, who has left his mark on Morgantown not only on people's clothes but on murals, signs, and other places all around town. The price, $12.00 each, will cover shipping and will let me break even on the purchase. Butch donated his labor and skills, so the cost is only for the shirts, ink and screen. Checks can be made to Robert Bradley, and sent to my address, 163 Brewer Road, Morgantown, WV 26508. Let me know size and quantity, and I'll send them out as they come in.

Convenor's Workshop II 

In Oakland Saturday 2/26

Another LifeRing Convenor's Workshop will be held Saturday Feb. 26 from nine a.m. to noon in downtown Oakland, CA.  The venue is the Kaiser CDRP at 969 Broadway, upstairs from Smart & Final, Group Room 2.  This is planned as basically a repeat of the first Convenor's Workshop held Nov. 6, 1999.  See news item, below.  Because of limited space, please reserve a seat by calling the LSR Service Center, 510-763-0779, as soon as possible.  There is no charge for the event.  (2/2/00)

New Recovery Meeting Starts Feb. 7 

In Center for Inquiry, Amherst, N.Y. 

A new secular recovery meeting will begin Monday, Feb. 7, 2000, in the Center for Inquiry in Amherst, N.Y.  The meeting will convene every Monday from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m.  The Center is located at 1310 Sweethome Road, Amherst.  For further information, contact Sue at (716) 886-0126 between 5 and 8 p.m. any day, or email SueJGee@aol.com.  (1/22/00)

LifeRing Inc. Elects New Director,

Adds Two to Press Advisory Board

The LifeRing Inc. Board of Directors has elected Diane Jeanette of New Haven CT as member of the Board of Directors, and has elected John Siebenbaum and Don Ratke, both from the Gray's Harbor WA area, as members of the LifeRing Press Advisory Board.  The Board of Directors expressed its appreciation to departing member Paula Bryder and wished her a speedy recovery.  For current members and officers of LifeRing Inc., see www.lifering.com. The actions were taken at the Board of Directors meeting on January 9.  (1/11/00)

New Sobriety Groups 

Beginning in Iceland 

A new secular sobriety meeting opened in Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland, with the new year.  The group will meet every Tuesday evening at 18:00 hours at Félagsheimili, MIR, Vatnsstig 10.  Petur T., one of the founders, writes that the group's provisional name is "SOS-Bindindisfelag".  He explains:  "Bindindisfelag is composed of two words: Bindindi means sobriety or not using alcohol, drugs etc. Felag is an old Icelandic word. The Vikings build felag and they were in felagi when they united their possessions, weapons etc. to sail out and rob the world. Soccer teams are usually known as felag instead of club. In a way we are using the word 'bindindi' to capture it again for positive content. To be a bindindismadur (madur = man, person) is to be a member or a follower of the old temperance movement. In AA it's bad to be just in bindindi -- because that means you only quit but don't do the other important things. So we are stressing the point of sobriety without the 'ideological quality control' as I'm beginning to call it."  Petur also adds that the honor of being the first meeting in Iceland belongs to friends in Akureyri, a town in northern  Iceland, who started meeting in private homes a few weeks earlier but do not yet have a public meeting place.  (1/5/00)