Here is a summary of the Box 459 News and Notes (Spring 2026) newsletter:
Key Highlights
- First-Ever Online Forum for Deaf Alcoholics: Held on January 17, 2026, this special forum addressed severe accessibility challenges faced by deaf members. The initiative led to the creation of the Grapevine ASL YouTube Playlist and ongoing efforts to translate vital service literature, such as The A.A. Group, into American Sign Language (ASL).
- GSO Headquarters Reopening: The General Service Office in New York City fully reopened its 11th floor in April 2026 following a major retrofit project that consolidated all employees onto a single floor. In-person tours and the traditional Friday 11:00 a.m. A.A. meeting have officially resumed.
- Seventh Tradition Story Callout: GSO is inviting members to submit one-minute voice memos sharing how self-support and GSO services have impacted their recovery.
Publishing & Product Updates
- Twelve Concepts Animated Video: A whiteboard-animation video explaining the Twelve Concepts for World Service is now available in English, French, and Spanish.
- Plain Language Big Book Audio: The audio version of The Plain Language Big Book: A Tool for Reading Alcoholics Anonymous is launching in mid-June 2026 on the AAWS webstore and major audiobook platforms.
- Souvenir Book Price Drop: The commemorative coffee-table book, A Book of Fellowship: 90 Years of Sharing Love and Service, has been discounted from $18 to $15 USD.
Upcoming Events & Deadlines
- 2030 International Convention Themes: GSO is actively seeking theme suggestions for A.A.’s 95th Anniversary International Convention in St. Louis, Missouri (scheduled for July 4–7, 2030). Submissions must be emailed by October 9, 2026.
- 2026 Regional Forums:
- Western Canada: June 12–14 (Saskatoon, SK)
- Eastern Canada: August 21–23 (Boucherville, QC)
- Southeast: September 18–20 (Raleigh, NC)
- Pacific: December 4–6 (San Diego, CA)