Regional Delegate Report
March 20, 1999

It's crunch time for me as I continue to adapt to my new duties. In an effort to streamline this report, I am including attachments--in particular--minutes from the Northeast Zonal Forum (NEZF) held on January 23, 1999. Attending the NEZF on behalf of the WNY Region were myself and Elizabeth. An unusually arduous train journey to New York City of 12 hours began our whirlwind weekend. I'm not sure what Elizabeth was thinking, but I couldn't help but wonder...all this for a 6 hour work session? More on this later as suggestions were made to go to a 2 day zonal forum format.

In all seriousness, participation in the NEZF is critical for our region, especially at this juncture. Zonal forums give RDs the opportunity to meet other RDs and discuss issues of mutual concern. It also provides a network of geographically linked trusted servants--a crucial link as I have discovered. The topic of this forum was Resolution A. Our region was well-prepared as we had held our Resolution A workshop a mere two weeks prior to the zonal forum.

An entire book could probably be written about Resolution A, but to summarize: most of the other 13 regions present are also continuing to explore Resolution A. We all agreed that the issue is dense and difficult to evoke participation among the fellowship. Discussion within regions will continue. Several ideas were generated, for example, the New Jersey region circulated a questionnaire among the fellowship. Some regions favored Model 3 and some Model 4. A report from the World Board was distributed (it's included in the 1999 CAR) which list various questions surrounding Resolution A and states that we have become locked into comparing models.

The NEZF decided to continue discussion of Resolution A at our next formal meeting which will be held on August 7, 1999 in...Niagara Falls!!! Yes, for the first time ever--the Zone will meet in our region. A tribute to Paulie! Strong regional participation is highly encouraged! Our zone will meet informally at the World Service Conference. At that time, we will discuss holding 2 day zonal forums--a "bigger bang for the buck." For more information on Resolution A, read the 1999 CAR or speak with me.

MARLCNA

On February 12, 1999, I headed to Lancaster, PA to attend the Mid-Atlantic Regional Learning Conference. An eventful ride was capped off by my ability to make a long overdue amend to my old landlord. I also got us lost a couple of times...

Attending MARLCNA was a form of baptism of fire. A mini-WSC was what people kept saying. Fortunately, my friends from the NEZF were more than accommodating, taking me under their wing and providing assistance, support and affirmation. 16 regions sent Rds--I just need to stress how grateful I am to the delegates who have truly helped me--and us. Marathon CAR sessions ensued--2 hours on Friday night and 12 hours on Saturday day and night. Whirlwind! Before I forget, I would love to see our region subsidize all RCMs to attend MARLCNA. A motion will be made at a later time. It would be very wise for all RSC members to attend. Other regions send entourages...I was "alone."

Conference Agenda Report/Workshop

The 1999 CAR is unique in that it only contains 12 motions. Also contained in the CAR are issue discussion papers regarding Resolution A and Fellowship Communications.

Our CAR workshop will be held on March 27, 1999 at 1:00 pm. RSC participation is strongly encouraged. Whatever we as a committee can do to encourage participation among the fellowship, we should do!

I need help with the following:

1. Set-up
2. Coffee and cookies
3. CAR Books

Other News

I have also visited the CASCNA with Tom and Stacey as well as the Ni-O area. Additionally, I have called the Allecats area. The purpose of this outreach is to elicit more participation among our member areas. This is a goal of mine as RD.

On a final note, I welcome Freddie R. as RD Alternate. We will be attending the World Service Conference--4/23--5/1/99. As such, I am requesting $$$ today.

2 plane tickets--approx. $800
2 rooms with roommates--approx. $800
shuttle service to/from airport--approx. $60
per diem--approx. $300

I need the $$$ for the plane tickets ASAP as I can't book the flights until then.

Before I conclude this report, I would like to formally request a "Strategic planning/Regional Inventory" meeting in May or June. As a region, we have a lot to discuss....