We’ve learned that earlier this year a writer for the pop sexology/“girlie” magazine press posed as a sexaholic and attended SA meetings in at least two cities. This man had requested an interview and used “dirty tricks” to try and force one. He was given the standard response that we are not granting interviews at this time, and we sent him our media form letter (copy enclosed). [This letter was drafted in July 1981 when we got our first batch of media requests following the first Dear Abby column.]

All of the other requestors from the media (scores of them) have honored this letter; not so in this case. The man created his own cover story and attended enough meetings to gain the confidence of SA members. He also obtained my name and phone number from SA members, and using those members as references, came to see me under false pretenses. We don’t come off very well, and apparently I’m to be his next target. The piece helps confirm why our current policy of not granting interviews is wise.

At an SA business meeting of the West L.A. group this matter was discussed and it was concluded that the best course was for their members not to respond in any way; to do so would involve them in controversy against the Traditions and would expose us further. I concur. I suggest we simply take it on the chin and learn from the experience. The West L.A. group also decided to pray for the man and ask that God’s will be done — to “turn it over” and let Him handle the thing.

SA member, M.O., of Las Vegas tells us that Bill W.’s response to the bad press AA got in one instance was, “I doubt if it will do us much harm.… So we can afford to take a little panning, however unfair, now and then.… I’m sure it ought not to be dignified by any reply.” (July 29, 1954 letter)

This may be the time to ask ourselves some questions regarding meeting and membership guidelines, which some of us have been raising recently anyway.