MBAIAA Newsletter – February 2026

Published on February 20, 2026

Step Two:  “Came to believe that a Power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity.”

“We found that as soon as we were able to lay aside prejudice and express even a willingness to believe in a Power greater than ourselves, we commenced to get results…”
— page 46, Alcoholics Anonymous

Step Two brings hope.  After admitting our powerlessness, we are invited to consider that help may come from something greater than ourselves.  This step does not demand perfect belief.  It asks only for willingness.

Many of us discovered that relying solely on our own thinking kept us stuck in the same painful patterns.  Step Two suggests that restoration begins when we become open to guidance, support, and strength beyond our own willpower.

Whether we understand that Power as God, the fellowship, or simply the principles of the program, this step reminds us that we do not recover alone.

What’s Happening Locally

Monthly Birthday Meeting

This month the the monthly Birthday Meeting will be hosted by Good Morning Carmel.  They meet online and in person at the Church of the Wayfarer on the corner of 7th and Lincoln in Carmel, every weekday at 7:00AM and 8:00AM on weekends.

Time:  Saturday, February 28th at 7:00pm
Place:  Monterey High School Cafeteria – 101 Herrmann Dr. Monterey CA 93940
Speaker: JB

Come celebrate sobriety milestones with us! We’ll share cake, coffee, and fellowship as we honor members receiving birthday medallions. The evening includes:

• Birthday Celebrations – Medallions for annual A.A. anniversaries (all are welcome to participate)
• Speaker Meeting – An inspiring share for 40–45 minutes
• Fellowship Time – Coffee is ready by 6:30pm; arrive early for a good seat and good company

This open meeting is held the last Saturday of each month (except December, when it’s combined with our holiday banquet).

Pacific Group Bus Trip

Please see the flyer below for details on the upcoming annual bus trip to visit the Pacific Group.  Time is running out so reserve your spot today!

Intergroup Service Opportunity

We Need You!

Our Monterey Bay Area Intergroup is currently seeking trusted servants to help carry the message and support the work of Central Office.

Twelfth Step Phone List – Men’s Position

This position helps ensure that alcoholics reaching out for help can connect with a sober member of AA.

Responsibilities include:

• Keeping the Twelfth Step call list current
• Reviewing the list monthly and correcting it quarterly
• Ensuring the answering service has current procedures and phone lists

Recommended qualifications:

• Minimum one year of continuous sobriety
• Willingness to be of service and maintain confidentiality

Intergroup Representatives-at-Large (IGRs-at-Large)

IGRs-at-Large serve on the Steering Committee and help support the work of Central Office and the unity of our fellowship.

Responsibilities include:

• Attending Intergroup and Steering Committee meetings
• Having voice and vote at those meetings
• Informing groups about Intergroup services and opportunities
• Serving on the annual Audit Committee
• Participating in ad hoc committees such as Unity Day and the Holiday Banquet

Qualifications:

• Minimum one year of continuous sobriety
• Prior service experience within the AA service structure
• Familiarity with the purpose and function of MBAIAA

Why Serve?

Intergroup exists to help groups do together what they cannot do alone. Service strengthens unity, supports Central Office operations, and helps carry the message to the still-suffering alcoholic.

If you are interested in standing for one of these positions, please contact the Central Office or speak with your Intergroup Representative.

News from General Service

News from H&I (Hospitals & Institutions)

Monterey Bay Area Roundup (MBAR) 2026 Update

What is MBAR?

The Monterey Bay Area Roundup (MBAR) is a biennial conference held in beautiful Monterey, California. It brings together the AA, Al-Anon, Ala-Teen, and Spanish-speaking communities for a powerful weekend of shared experience, encouragement, and growth.

Conference Dates: September 4–6, 2026

Visit: montereybayarearoundup.org

Join the Planning Committee

Do you feel called to service? We invite you to join us in shaping MBAR 2026! This event is made possible through the enthusiasm and dedication of volunteers like you.

Monthly Business Meetings

Held the 2nd Saturday of each month at 10:00 AM (PST)

On Zoom

– Zoom ID: 330 100 7207

– Password: 2026

Upcoming Meetings:

• March 14

If you’re interested in being of service, please reach out to Jenn at mbarchair2026@gmail.com. Your service can truly help shape the success of MBAR 2026.

Upcoming Events

Please see the flyer below for details on the upcoming St. Patty’s Day potluck and speaker meeting to raise funds for MBAR.

Why MBAR Has Fundraisers

Every contribution helps us create an unforgettable MBAR experience. Your support goes directly toward covering essential costs such as venues, supplies, and outstanding speakers.

As we prepare for MBAR 2026—bigger and better than ever—we are also facing rising expenses. Fundraising allows us to keep registration fees and activities affordable for everyone, with special outreach to the newcomer. This ensures MBAR remains accessible to all who wish to be part of this incredible weekend.

If you’d like to make a contribution to support MBAR, you can do so by scanning the QR code below or visiting our website:

montereybayarearoundup.org

Together, we can make MBAR 2026 a celebration to remember!

Stay Connected

Instagram: @mbar2026

Facebook: Monterey Bay Area Roundup

Email: mbarchair2026@gmail.com

Website: montereybayarearoundup.org

Keep It Simple—One Day at a Time.

Intergroup Meeting Minutes & Financial Reports – February 2026

A Note From Central Office

Literature Prices

As we mentioned in last month’s newsletter, AAWS has raised book prices by $3.  Fortunately, thanks to prior planning, Intergroup only needed to make modest adjustments:

$1 increase on books over $10
$2 increase on books under $10

We remain committed to keeping literature affordable while ensuring the Central Office can continue to serve our fellowship.

Thank you for helping us carry the message.

Event Location Available

The Filipino-American Club, located at 629 Pearl Street, has made its facility available for AA events.  The space can accommodate approximately 200 to 300 people.  If your group is interested, please visit their website for contact information and rental details.

Meeting News

Toast to Recovery (Tuesdays at 6:00 PM at the Nancy Dodd Center in Marina) is asking for the Fellowship’s support. Many members have less than a year of sobriety and would greatly benefit from your Experience, Strength, and Hope.  Please see the flyer below for more information.

The Solution is a new closed meeting of Alcoholics Anonymous held daily at 1:30 PM in the Fellowship Hall.  This meeting is intended for those who have had a spiritual awakening as the result of working the Twelve Steps and who wish to share the solution with newer members.  Please see the flyer below for additional details.

Letter from General Service

Included below is a letter from Scott H., Chair of the General Service Board, reflecting on Tradition One, sacrifice, and our shared responsibility for the future of Alcoholics Anonymous. His message invites each of us to consider what we are willing to give — of our time, resources, and humility — so that AA may remain available to the still-suffering alcoholic. We encourage you to take a few moments to read it thoughtfully.

In Love and Service,

Oliver

Info/Events & Service Opportunities

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