[koicluboftheair]

Very enlightening Sue
I find it particularly interesting that you note those were some of your hardest years and that you are no longer with that group. We could assume that your former club's leaders are continuing to do such not changing their modis operandi much and there might should be a sign out front before entering that there is no truth in advertising regarding their bylaws if in fact they even provide them to new members. Furthermore, some would criticize us or anyone else that talks of such matters claiming that is where the true harm to the club and hobby comes from versus there being any benefit possible available through reform. Some might say well Sue you don't know that situation exists anymore over at that club, but you likely suspect otherwise. Then in the AKCA bottom up sort of organizational framework you can see that such antics amongst members wielding power and influence while bypassing the edicts of the bylaws without consultation of the membership majority continue to be rewarded with the fruits of their status and a freehand to conduct their business as usual.

cheers

John

Quote: Originally Posted by Auntiesue Ooo, bit of a touchy topic - hits close to home!! I just finished a 2 year tenure with our local water garden club (10 years old). 1 year as VP and the most recent year as President. While VP I noticed my fellow board members seemed to be quoting several "founding" members when it came to making decisions. Often is was said that "so and so" would prefer..... I finally spoke up and asked if "so and so" was on the Board and who was really supposed to be guiding this club? Silence!! I decided right then and there that the following year I would run for Prez and got it. It wasn't long after my tenure started that I was getting emails and calls from "certain" long time members "requesting" that certain things be accomplished or followed up with "or" I could see my volunteer base diminsh as these long time members wouldn't be happy if certain goals were not undertaken. Well, the stubborn Italian in me said no and I drew the line in the sand. We went to the general membership with all major undertakings and ideas instead. It was amazing how quickly members started to contact me (and the new board) with excuses for not following through with their prior committments. Within a very few months our board members were pulling the entire weight of the organization. It was one of the hardest years I've ever gone through and my last with that group. Since then several of us have started our own Koi club locally. I swear this will never happen to this club - EVER!!! Before we move on to anything that requires committment from a volunteer base or might impact the direction of the club, we will "take it to the people"...at least as long as I'm a member!!! Sue