Central Florida Intergroup

Orlando Area Alcoholics Anonymous

24 Hour Hotline: (407) 260-5408

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History of AA in Orlando: A Mac Follow-up

Regarding Mac, the fraudulent defrocked Episcopalian priest who absconded with our Intergroup funds, his talent as a con artist was so great that many in the area refused to believe that he was indeed a confidence man and had never been a priest. A check with the Episcopal Church confirmed that Edward K. McDonald had never been on their roster of priests.

In time, the Orlando AA community was able to put Mac behind them and go on to create a better AA environment with an Intergroup office that functioned according to AA Traditions. But that is not the last we heard of Mac.

Several years later, Clarence S., while on a visit to Massachusetts, was approached by a distinguished-looking individual. “How are tilings in Orlando?” he asked, giving Clarence a hardy handshake. Try as he might, Clarence could not place this person. There was something familiar in his voice, perhaps his eyes, but he could see no recognition through the individual’s neatly trimmed moustache and goatee. Sensing this, the individual said, “You know me as Mac, Ed McDonald!” After regaining his composure from this shock, Clarence asked, “Aren’t you afraid the Orlando people will come after you now that they know where to find you?” Mac retorted, “Can’t — seven-year statute of limitations!”

Later a friend from Massachusetts sent our Intergroup an article from the local paper which showed a picture of Mac (sporting a beard) announcing his appointment as drug and family counselor to a new project. The article listed his impressive credentials. Orlando experience was conspicuous by its omission.

 

Previous Article: History of AA in Orlando: Intergroup Beginnings & The Mac Attack / Next Article: History of AA in Orlando: Post-Mac Intergroup Beginnings

Online Contributions

Contributions to the Central Florida Intergroup support services to our members and groups throughout Central Florida and help ensure that the A.A. message is carried in our region. In keeping with our Seventh Tradition, we ask that you only contribute if you are a member of Alcoholics Anonymous.

Intergroup Office & Store Location

283 Live Oaks Blvd, Bldg 6
Casselberry, FL 32707
In the Live Oaks Center

The Central Florida Intergroup office/bookstore is open by appointment. To set up a time to visit, please call 407-260-5822 or email us by clicking here. We are asking that everyone wear a mask and honor the CDC recommendations.

Contact Us

Email: Click Here

Office: (407) 260-5822
24 Hour AA Hotline: (407) 260-5408

(Click to Download a PDF of the January 2021 Hotline schedule)

About This Site

The primary purpose of the Central Florida Intergroup’s web site is to provide an online meeting guide for meetings of Alcoholics Anonymous throughout the Central Florida area. The web site will present information that is available publicly concerning meetings, events and links concerning Alcoholics Anonymous.

The site has no outside interests, or connection or affiliation with any individual or organization outside of AA.

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