WB, I like that 'perfect world', of course we know it is not, but it would be nice. Larry, it is very difficult to keep myself updated on things as they progress, I have to refer back to notes, so, I touched on what I consider to be the most important. Most of our work is very dull and boring, an example is we proposed to have the bylaws take precedence over Robert's Rules of Order. It is not normal, recommended by Robert's, or perferred to have Robert's take precedence over bylaws, and is rarely done, Robert's is how to run a meeting, bylaws is a guide what an organization needs to do, big difference. But since there are provisions in Robert's that we need, changes were necessary to accomodate this. This is commonly known as 'housekeeping'. And when one provision is changed, it might effect another, so more housekeeping needs to be done, to correct the situation. All this is minor in nature, and makes no great change, but it is a pain in the seat. What will happen in Madison is, at the membership meeting you will be provided with copies of the proposed bylaws, if there is time to prepare it, a synopsis of the proposed changes also. I will give the committee report which will contain the recommended changes to be put on the annual ballot. Perhaps some committee members will wish to address issues, and perhaps you may have questions concerning recommended changes, feel free to ask at that time. At some point, a member will make a motion and second to approve the report, if you feel there is sufficient merit for the proposal to be voted on by all members, you may wish to vote to approve the report, if not, don't. I will not encourage any member to vote either way, especially before hearing the report. But, on the other hand, it would be dangerous for me to start addressing issues as though they have cleared committee, when they haven't, and we are still working, probably will be right down to the wire! I did include a couple of issues that I am working on, doesn't mean they will clear committee, it does mean we are still trying to progress! And all this does take time. I can understand your concern over mistrust, all that was created after I took this committee, so, it just makes my work more challenging is all. There is no such thing as a problem, only the opportunity to create solutions!!! But, I am not going to put something out there, and say I'm going to deliver, then not. The last time the bylaws were worked on, it took 5 years, no member input was sought, everything was done thru the board, then it went straight to the ballot. I have tried to involve the members, and use a committee, I can only hope it works better than last time. You mentioned somewhere a concern that some clique might not like something, or something of that nature. The only thing I can think of is there are some who support the status quo, and would prefer we just change the address. I knew that going in, and was a major reason for making it a requirement for this committee to serve independently from the board. If the report passes the membership meeting, it will be published in the November issue of the magazine, in plenty of time for ALL member to read and cast a ballot. I would also get Chris to put it somewhere on the website, well in advance of the magazine.
Hey Bill Brandt, and WB,
Hey guys, it is good to hear from you, I really liked WB's article!!!
You both are touching on a problem that has plaqued us as long as I have been a member. There is always uncertainty about scheduling. This last WGT proved that to me directly. I requested a meeting room for the committee, and was told it wouldn't be a problem. What I got made available was the board room, after the board meeting, I guess from 11 pm to 5 am is supposed to be normal. Anyhow not having a responsible person to address schedules has always been a problem. And not always are the rooms prepared either. Did you notice at the WGT the battery in the microphone was dead? If I knew we needed one I would have brought one of mine, I have 6 Shure TV58D wireless, and 3 or 4 Telex wireless, I suppose they could borrow one, if, I know to bring it, heck, I'd even throw in a couple of cards of batteries! But, I can agree, this is a problem. Going into an unknown place is also a problem, of course a host will take care of their money makers first, that is natural, and a given. So, you go in blind, don't know what to expect, and hope for the best. Sometimes things pan out, and a schedule can be set, other times, well who knows. I have been talking about a need for non-voting service officers, perhaps this is something that needs more attention. If we had a Sergeant-at-Arms, he would be responsible to acquire and prepare meeting rooms, this is a normal duty. Perhaps this would allow scheduling. But, I don't know, we have had meetings in some unusual places!
This has been exciting compared to the book keeping I must have ready for my accountant before I leave tomorrow. So, regretfully(you don't even know how regretfully), I must go, and do the Excel thing!!!
Have a great day!!!
Andy