A.A.'s Country-wide News Circuit

When about 200 A.A.s with an additional 100 relatives and visitors celebrated the third anniversary of the Tulsa, Okla., Group recently the general opinion was that "disagreements are few and bickerings aren't allowed to occur." Tangible evidence of the spirit is shown in such items as rent paid in advance for a year, $6,000 worth of furniture and equipment and $1,000 in the treasury. A.A. came to Tulsa in 1944 when a young business man got a copy of the book and as he had graduated from several institutions from Texas to New York, began attending meetings in Oklahoma City, 125 miles away, twice a week. Then came a luncheon meeting in Tulsa with visiting A.A.s and two other prospects including the chief of police. Small office meetings, then a meeting with Oklahoma City Group members in a union hall and the group was really launched. Meeting in various homes, with wives aiding in serving luncheons, the group has continued to expand, graduating to larger meeting places, aided by newspaper and radio publicity. By 1945 when the group numbered about 40, a hall was secured and reconditioned as a clubroom which was formally opened with visitors from Kansas City, Dallas, Houston and other cities. Our correspondent writes, "Almost every conceivable business, profession and trade is represented. About 25 percent of our members have never had a slip and probably another 50 percent have sailed a straight course after getting their bearings. We have about 20 women members and some 10 or 12 husbands and wives, both alcoholics. We have classes for new members, membership meetings and open houses. We employ a full-time secretary and clubroom manager and are open 10 or more hours every day. Come out and see us sometime."