December meeting announced!

[Kristy]

Okay, our next meeting is right around the corner!

WHAT: Year-End BOD Candidate Announcements / Holiday meeting
MAAST 2010 BOD election candidate announcements, followed by holiday festivities

WHEN: Saturday, Dec 5th
1pm-5pm

WHERE: Dunbar Recreation Center
801 W. Martin Luther King Dr.
San Marcos, TX 78666
(corner of W. Martin Luther King Dr. and Endicott St.)


THEME: 12 Days of Fish-mas... featuring:

"White elephant" style gift exchange - Bring a WRAPPED gift from your aquarium stash, garage cleanout, etc. THAT MIGHT BE USEFUL TO SOMEONE ELSE (no broken stuff please!)
TOY DRIVE - Bring an UNWRAPPED toy for a local child in need that we will donate to local children's agency.
This will be a family event with food, fun activities for the kids, and good times for the fish fans. Show your involvement and support of MAAST by participating in this Year-End Election and holiday get-together!

Map / directions to follow! (They have been added at the end of this thread, see post #101).

[Kristy]

Hope you can make plans to be there. Please RSVP in this thread so we will know how many we'll be feeding! :)

Kristy and Mike will both be there (2 adults)

[corruption]

The wife and I will aim to be there, though we're notoriously bad with remembering things such as this :)

...I haven't been to an office Christmas party yet.. ;)

-Corruption

[justahobby]

I'll come

[profntbtr]

i wil most likely be there +1 and a crotch goblin

[apedroza]

I might make this one +3

[roscozman]

WHAT: Year-End BOD Elections / Holiday meeting
MAAST elections followed by holiday festivities

WHEN: Saturday, Dec 5th
1pm-5pm



I know my wife is on the BOD, but I don't get all my questions answered... So I will ask here:

Who is running for new positions?
What BOD members are running again?
What positions are or will be vacant?
Do you have to be nominated or do you nominate yourself?

December 5th is less than three weeks away and there has not been an announcement of what positions are up for election and who is running. I am not trying to hijack you thread, just curious.

[Kristy]

Thanks for the opportunity to clarify myself, Ross (although I actually cannot answer any of your specific questions!)...

Looks like we are working on trying to get the actual voting of the elections approved to be online to allow for the greatest amount of member participation, so that is our goal. But this meeting will announce candidates up for election to the Board.

Clear as mud? Hopefully someone else will tackle the other specifics of who is up for re-election and how does the nomination process go, etc.

[Bill S]

Ross - you 2 are married - don't you talk?:bigsmile:

As Kristy indicated, we are trying to make the actual process online, so we can get as much participation as possible.

We are trying to work out the details, but here's what the Board of Directors discussed on Sunday, and we are now in the process of hashing out, online (We put a very specific process in place recently, that does a great job stepping the Board through a decision process. It's not quick, but it has an audit trail and gives everyone on the Board the opportunity to weigh in on the process - and tracks that. We will then post the results in the following BOD Meeting Minutes for everyone to see.)

1) Determine how many Board positions are actually open (you wouldn't believe how complicated this is...), and with the Bylaws in mind, determine how many of those positions are 1 year vs. 2 year.

2) Post the open positions for nominations for an appropriate period of time.

3) Announce those running for office - hopefully, at the Annual Meeting.

4) Post a voting poll that complies with the Bylaw rules.

We really want to get this done by mid December, to allow new Board Members an opportunity to get up to speed by the first Board Meeting in January. I CAN tell you that your first few days of being a Board Member are quite... INTERESTING!

I can't encourage folks enough to run for office.

The above IS my opinion as a Board Member!

[Mr Cob]

I can't encourage folks enough to run for office.



Definitely... no better feeling than taking part in the club you love!

[tony]

I CAN tell you that your first few days of being a Board Member are quite... INTERESTING!

I can't encourage folks enough to run for office.

The above IS my opinion as a Board Member!


haha very true

agree, for me it was a huge sense of accomplishment to complete 2 years as a BOD

[Mr Cob]

The first day...I felt like I unlocked a new level in my favorite video game or something. (I don't even play video games...LOL)

I know this site has had it's ups and downs this year but that can be expected with the amount of growth we have had! Things have settled down a lot and I'm excited to see what the new year brings for MAAST as a whole.

[Pennies2Cents]

The first day...I felt like I unlocked a new level in my favorite video game or something. (I don't even play video games...LOL)

I know this site has had it's ups and downs this year but that can be expected with the amount of growth we have had! Things have settled down a lot and I'm excited to see what the new year brings for MAAST as a whole.

I could not agree more Rob!

It was like I was playing games on Ross' PS3. :shades:

Over all it has been a good year. I am definitely looking forward to the elections and the year ahead. It will be a bigger & better year. :applause: This year POTM was re-instated as well as the launch of The MAASTARD Newsletter and both have been successful with plenty of participation from you our members. :)

[roscozman]

Thanks for the information everyone.

Bill - You will not believe how many times this exchange happens at our house:
Me - "What happened about...":confused:
Eve - "Didn't you get on-line today?!?!?":sarcastic:
Me - "Never mind...":at_wits_end:

Looking forward to the meeting.

[Pennies2Cents]

Your so funny Ross! lol


Kristy,

You can put us down for 3...

Ross, Myself and our oldest son. :)

[MRSBIGBIRD123]

I could not agree more Rob!

It was like I was playing games on Ross' PS3. :shades:

Over all it has been a good year. I am definitely looking forward to the elections and the year ahead. It will be a bigger & better year. :applause: This year POTM was re-instated as well as the launch of The MAASTARD Newsletter and both have been successful with plenty of participation from you our members. :)

You are soo right on Eve.....lots of game playing, alot of people have contributed to the success of MAAST this year. TMAC brought MAAST and South Texas alot of attention, as well as the Spotlight on MAAST, in Reefkeeping Online Magazine.
Also the Equipment Bank and Library are both "added bonuses" for the Membership, thanks Jack for taking on the responsibilty of both.
I would personally like to say thank you too all who have help contribute to the success of MAAST and it's continuance of growth! A speical shout out to the Sponsors.......for all that you give....both products and advise.
I would also like to take this time to thank all who have volunteered their time at meetings and/or on site (there are too many names to post).......MAAST would not be where it is today without you! :applause:

[txav8r]

Don't forget to throw your name in there as well Cheri. Most of those events wouldn't have happened if you didn't do all of the leg work and planning for them.

Thank you!!

[Mr Cob]

Yep. That's a lot of leg work!

[MRSBIGBIRD123]

Don't forget to throw your name in there as well Cheri. Most of those events wouldn't have happened if you didn't do all of the leg work and planning for them.

Thank you!!

Jack, thanks it was never about me, it was (as well as it should be) always giving back to the Members..........that was my purpose, without them there would not be a MAAST.
I would also like to thank Kristy for taking on the position as Events Coordinator, I hope that she will receive full support of the BOD, including input as needed.

[txav8r]

Kristy has some big shoes to fill but I'm sure whe will do just fine! She already has tons of ideas for meetings and events.

[MRSBIGBIRD123]

Oh, I meant no disrespect, I know for a fact that she will do an outstanding job, and I totally support her. I do keep in contact with her, and want her to know that I am here if she has a question.....

[txav8r]

Nor did I. That was supposed to be a compliment to the both of you!

[Sherri]

haha very true

agree, for me it was a huge sense of accomplishment to complete 2 years as a BOD

Uhhhh...I think its' been since 2003 as Secretary and 2005 as Treasurer...:bigsmile: It all hasn't been rosy..but I only hope that I have had some sort of hand in making MAAST a part of what it is - after all...it is for the love of my hobby. :heart:

[Kristy]

I totally agree about how great it is that so many have stepped up to offer their leadership over this past year and even before that. I DO have some big shoes to fill!

Let's try to steer this back on topic....

So far we have RSVPs from:
Mike and Kristy (2 adult)
corruption (1 adult, 1 infantile, sophomoric humored egotist)
Justahobby (1? No Emily?)
profntbtr (2 adults, 1 child)
apedroza (2 adults 2 children)

Some of you others on this thread forget to add your RSVP! :bighug:

[corruption]

Classifying me as an adult may be a stretch... can you change it to read:

corruption (1 adult, 1 infantile, sophomoric humored egotist)?

;)

-Corruption

[kkiel02]

Ok put me down for two. I would also like to be more involved in the club if y'all need any help.

[justahobby]

Justahobby (1? No Emily?)


Just 1 for now. I'll let ya know if anything changes.

[Pennies2Cents]

Kristy,

You can put us down for 3...

Ross, Myself and our oldest son. :)

You forgot me! :) lol,..

[Kristy]

Oops! Lost that in those election discussion posts. Sorry Eve!

Updated RSVPs:
Mike and Kristy (2 adults)
corruption (1 adult, 1 infantile, sophomoric humored egotist)
Justahobby (1 adult)
profntbtr (2 adults, 1 child)
apedroza (2 adults 2 children)
kkiel02 (2 adults)
pennies2cents/Roscozman (2 adults, 1 child)

[jroescher]

I will NOT be there. Don't get back from vacation until that night.

Playa del Secreto

[txav8r]

OOhhh.. I like secret beaches!

[Paul28]

I saved my last vacation day from work for the 5th im not miissing it :):):)

Me my wife and 2 kids we will be there

[hobogato]

Christy and I and the boys(2) will be there

[Kristy]

Time for a BUMP! Anybody up for Christmas Karaoke??? :)

Updated RSVPs:
Mike and Kristy (2 adults)
corruption (1 adult, 1 infantile, sophomoric humored egotist)
Justahobby (1 adult)
profntbtr (2 adults, 1 child)
apedroza (2 adults 2 children)
kkiel02 (2 adults)
pennies2cents/Roscozman (2 adults, 1 child)
Paul28 (2 adults, 2 children)
hobogato (2 adults, 2 children)
jennabee (2 adults, 4 children)
cowboy572 (1 adult)
txlizard (2 adults)
snfkotara (2 adults, 2 children)

Looking good so far. Let's keep those RSVPs coming so we know how much food to bring!

[jennabee]

Count us is in..Two Adults and Four Children

[Kristy]

Great Jenn...I've added you to the RSVPs.

So shall we talk about the while elephant style gift exchange? Go through your fish cabinet / closet / garage and look for an item that you think someone else might be able to make good use of that you don't mind parting with, in the spirit of the holiday season. It could be something you no longer need, or something you have lots of and don't mind passing some along. (No broken junk, please!) Then wrap it up and watch us fight over the best, most creative re-gifting ritual since holiday rituals began!

[cowboy572]

Kristy, it will be just me.

[txlizard]

two adults please

[Kristy]

BUMP!!!

This year's elections really show how much our members want to be involved in the direction of MAAST. Hopefully many more will be joining us at next weekend's meeting / holiday celebration! Let's get in those RSVPs so the menu planning can be finalized.

I've confirmed with Elf Louise for our toy drive donations. They will be thrilled to distribute them among the children in need of our community.

[snfkotara]

We will be there 2 adults and 2 children. If any help is needed setting up or getting ready please let me know I will be happy to help.

[Kristy]

Thanks so much for the offer Sherry! I should have a better idea if I'm going to need help in a couple more days. I will definitely call on you if needed!

[snfkotara]

Please do I would love to help.

[Third Coast Tropical]

It would be nice to have the elections conducted online and not at a meeting that is not centrally located to all our members, especially on short notice. I think you'll have the best response via online.


By the looks of it now, you'll have approximately 25-30 attending,..which is nowhere near a true representation of the charter members.

[txav8r]

Due to the pending non-profit application we are limited on what changes we can make to the Bylaws. We are working on getting them changed to allow online voting and will keep you all posted.

[Third Coast Tropical]

If these nominations are so important,....perhaps its best to delay them until the online process can be adopted. 30 people voting for 250 is not good, nor fair.

[txav8r]

As an individual, I agree completly and am pushing for online voting.
Part of the problem is that the Bylaws state that BOD elections be held at the annual December meeting. We are working hard to change this and hope to have it done next week. At the moment our hands are tied.

[Third Coast Tropical]

Another option is to delay the meeting if the vote has to be held at a meeting (i know y'all have a place and food etc. already, but i think the vote is more important than all that)....

I asked about the online voting about a week ago and was told that is was probably going to happen. If I recall correctly, Aggman (sorry Alex if it wasn't you) jumped in and said that it would be as so. Also, in Eve's post, it was stated that the elections would be Dec 7 through 14th (in 2009 BOD nominations thread). Now, within a week's time, all those who want to vote, would have to make arrangements to travel to this meeting (some over 3 hours), which is not centrally located to all our members, to place their vote. It just doesn't make sense to have an election that will represent all of us, if so few will be there. I do not think it is a good idea to have this vote at this meeting if it really is that important....

It is inconsistent with information already given to us.

Thank you Jack for your responses. It would be nice to have other BOD to chime in as well. Also, I feel that if people are serving on the BOD, they should be in attendence at all BOD meetings. Scheduling these meeting should reflect that and also consider their schedules.

[Bill S]

Just so everyone understands how this works.

The Club Bylaws indicate that annual elections are to take place AT the Annual Meeting in December. There are NO provisions for anything other than this in our Bylaws. That vote requires a quorum. The quorum as identified in our Bylaws is 25% of the Charter Membership. Something in the 40-45 range, needed.

The CPA that the Club hired to help get the Non Profit Status approved as advised us not to make any changes to the Bylaws until we hear from the IRS the results of our application. We are currently trying to contact the CPA (holidays and all) to determine IF we can/should make this change.

In order to change our Bylaws, the Board needs to have the following in place:

A Bylaw change requires approval by 75% of the Board. In our case, there are currently 9 Board Members and Officers. That means that 7 of the 9 need to vote for the measure. We have one Board Member who is out of the country until next Sunday. That means we need 7 of the remaining 8 to vote for the measure. Being honest, that will be extremely difficult.

[Third Coast Tropical]

"The Club Bylaws indicate that annual elections are to take place AT the Annual Meeting in December."


"Paragraph 5: New Board members

a. Any new prospective board members must be approved by a simple majority vote of charter members, it will be a yes/no vote that will remain open for one week."


It seems like these somehow contradict one another.

"yes/no vote that will remain open for one week"...How does this work at one meeting?....I understand that as the vote last one week, not one meeting


If it seems as if I am trying to rock the boat, I am not.....I only would like to have a true representation of charter members voting....I feel a meeting in one week (and again not centrally located to all our members) would not reflect that...

[Bill S]

"The Club Bylaws indicate that annual elections are to take place AT the Annual Meeting in December."


"Paragraph 5: New Board members

a. Any new prospective board members must be approved by a simple majority vote of charter members, it will be a yes/no vote that will remain open for one week."


It seems like these somehow contradict one another.

"yes/no vote that will remain open for one week"...How does this work at one meeting?....I understand that as the vote last one week, not one meeting


If it seems as if I am trying to rock the boat, I am not.....I only would like to have a true representation of charter members voting....I feel a meeting in one week (and again not centrally located to all our members) would not reflect that...


LOL. Seriously, now you know a little bit about the problems we have interpreting the Bylaws. Especially where they conflict. And, why they need to be revised.

The "yes/no vote open for a week" was 1) developed for open seats during the year, and 2) was made under an incorrect assumption that online voting was permitted by the Bylaws, since it had been done that way in the past. Unfortunately, those conducting the online voting in the past had missed the parts of the Bylaws that let them conduct online voting. Because it isn't there!

I'm one of those that believes 1) follow the Bylaws and 2) when they don't work, fix them. Don't ignore them instead. I've been on the Board all of about 2 or so months. And I make folks follow the rules. And I'm often not popular.

[BigKGlen]

What of the handicapped/disabled that are unable to travel during this time period?
Do we proxy our vote?

[BIGBIRD123]

Kevin, this also is a problem because there is no provision in the by-laws that allows Proxy voting.

[Third Coast Tropical]

"I'm one of those that believes 1) follow the Bylaws and 2) when they don't work, fix them. Don't ignore them instead. I've been on the Board all of about 2 or so months. And I make folks follow the rules. And I'm often not popular."

How do you choose which Bylaws to follow then, if they are clearly contradictory? As in the case I pointed out.


"And I'm often not popular."....lol...it appears that I am in that boat with ya there, just for different reasons.....

[wesheltonj]

Unless the correct status with the State of Texas is not showing up, its does not matter, as MAAST is already operating unlawfully under Texas law. What good is a tax exemption status as a non-profit with the IRS, you you cannot operate lawfully in the State you are chartered in.
http://ecpa.cpa.state.tx.us/coa/servlet/cpa.app.coa.CoaGetTp?Pg=tpid&Search_Nm=marine%20aquarist%20&Button=search&Search_ID=32011006510

[Third Coast Tropical]

Unless the correct status with the State of Texas is not showing up, its does not matter, as MAAST is already operating unlawfully under Texas law. What good is a tax exemption status as a non-profit with the IRS, you you cannot operate lawfully in the State you are chartered in.
http://ecpa.cpa.state.tx.us/coa/servlet/cpa.app.coa.CoaGetTp?Pg=tpid&Search_Nm=marine%20aquarist%20&Button=search&Search_ID=32011006510



and the plot thickens

[corruption]

Unless the correct status with the State of Texas is not showing up, its does not matter, as MAAST is already operating unlawfully under Texas law. What good is a tax exemption status as a non-profit with the IRS, you you cannot operate lawfully in the State you are chartered in.
http://ecpa.cpa.state.tx.us/coa/servlet/cpa.app.coa.CoaGetTp?Pg=tpid&Search_Nm=marine%20aquarist%20&Button=search&Search_ID=32011006510

Does the BOD have an official stance as far as this goes? Even being a recently joined charter member, I have to say this is of valid and major concern for EVERY member of this organization...

-Justin

[Kristy]

Hey guys,

I absolutely appreciate how important this issue is that weshelton presents. It is my understanding that this is exactly why Sherri (the treasurer) and various BOD members / officers have been meeting with CPAs and submitting extensive documentation to the IRS, so that sufficient documentation has been fulfilled. I'm sure someone with more insight will chime in eventually, but as has already been noted, the BOD is busily trying to match our bylaws to accurately meet our needs - namely an online voting process, so this may take a bit...

In light of the importance of these issues, would it be ok if we moved them to a separate thread on "Concerns About Election Process and Tax Exempt Status"??

Hate for for this info to be overlooked in this thread and also hate for anyone that is actually looking for info about the December meeting to get lost in these posts.

[corruption]

100% agreed Kristy -- its something that all members should know of, since it directly affects us all. :) Move it away! :D

-Justin

[Bill S]

Unless the correct status with the State of Texas is not showing up, its does not matter, as MAAST is already operating unlawfully under Texas law. What good is a tax exemption status as a non-profit with the IRS, you you cannot operate lawfully in the State you are chartered in.
http://ecpa.cpa.state.tx.us/coa/servlet/cpa.app.coa.CoaGetTp?Pg=tpid&Search_Nm=marine%20aquarist%20&Button=search&Search_ID=32011006510

I can't remember the specifics, but the CPA, the IRS and Sherri, our Treasurer are all aware of this "status". As I sketchily (is that a word) recall, one of the the items the IRS asked us to resolve was this issue, and if I'm recalling correctly, this was either recently taken care of, or is in the process of being taken care of.

I'm hoping Sherri will jump in here.

[Bill S]

What of the handicapped/disabled that are unable to travel during this time period?
Do we proxy our vote?

Kevin, unless specifically provided for in the Bylaws (which they do not), proxy voting is not permitted.

[Kristy]

Unless the correct status with the State of Texas is not showing up,

Just thought it is worth mentioning that this status very well may not be up to date, considering how NOT up to date the officers / directors listed are...

[Bill S]

Just dug this tidbit up from the letter the IRS wrote to us in late October, which we responded to on November 7th. :

2. Per the attached filing history from the Texas Secretary of State website, it appears your organization has forfeited existence. You will need remedy this situation with the state and provide documentation showing that the organization is in good standing.

[hobogato]

sorry for the off topic post Kristy, all charter members please view the following poll and vote.

http://www.maast.org/forums/showthread.php?t=55753

[Mr Cob]

FYI... I can attend for the election/business part of the meeting but will not be able to be there for the festivities.

Thanks.

[Sherri]

I can't remember the specifics, but the CPA, the IRS and Sherri, our Treasurer are all aware of this "status". As I sketchily (is that a word) recall, one of the the items the IRS asked us to resolve was this issue, and if I'm recalling correctly, this was either recently taken care of, or is in the process of being taken care of.

I'm hoping Sherri will jump in here.

In the response TO THE IRS on questions concerning Non Profit Status..the CPA has notified the IRS that we are in the process (CPA is doing it) of getting this issue taken care of...we DON'T owe any taxes...the State was not aware of us whether we owed taxes or not. MAAST has never until this year brought in enough to owe...So the IRS HAS BEEN notified that it is in the works. All is well in the land of MAAST as far as taxes and there is one issue that IRS has been notified in the response to them concerning a paragraph THEY WANT inserted into our Articles of Incorporation...we will prob need an Attorney to do so. And I went by Post Office Box today...no reponse yet from Dept of Treasury on Non Profit yet. Will post when I do.

Thanks...sorry to get off topic of this thread - just wanted to clarify where we stand as of today.

[Sherri]

Just dug this tidbit up from the letter the IRS wrote to us in late October, which we responded to on November 7th. :

2. Per the attached filing history from the Texas Secretary of State website, it appears your organization has forfeited existence. You will need remedy this situation with the state and provide documentation showing that the organization is in good standing.

This is what my above post is covering. It is in the works per CPA.

I will be one of the first to announce when it is.

[ErikH]

So the online vote is a longshot, and the for sure vote is all the way in new braunfels, where we have maybe 3 members. It makes no sense. It should take place in SA.

[Kristy]

So the online vote is a longshot, and the for sure vote is all the way in new braunfels, where we have maybe 3 members. It makes no sense. It should take place in SA.

Actually, the meeting is NOT being held in NB, it's in San Marcos (not any more convenient, I realize, just don't want people confused by misinformation!)

Location: Dunbar Room
San Marcos, TX

[allan]

One of the things I like about this organization is that it doesn't just cater to those of us in San Antonio... one of the things I dislike is that it doesn't cater to those of us in San Antonio. :-)

Whereas I agree that SA is the central location (or it appears to be), and thus such an important vote should be centrally located, I also think that since the meeting has already been decided to occur up north a bit that it should continue to be so.

Just my thoughts though, I'm sure there are those who disagree. I do like the idea of voting by proxy or online but understand the difficulties in getting that approved on time.

[Kristy]

Carpool thread?

[wesheltonj]

MAAST covers up to Austin and beyond, but Austin does have its own club Austin Reef. San Macros is about the mid-point between.

Also put me down as a unable to attend.

[allan]

Carpool thread?


^5

[Third Coast Tropical]

MAAST covers up to Austin and beyond, but Austin does have its own club Austin Reef. San Macros is about the mid-point between.

Also put me down as a unable to attend.

San Marcos may be midway between SA and Austin, but we have members in the valley and CC.....

[Joe31]

2 adults and 1 child.

[justahobby]

Kristy, Add 1 adult to mine please. :bigsmile:

[Kristy]

Time for another BUMP! And, in case anyone is keeping track... maybe 19 charter members so far?

Updated RSVPs:
Mike and Kristy (2 adults)
corruption (1 adult, 1 infantile, sophomoric humored egotist)
Justahobby (2 adults)
profntbtr (2 adults, 1 child)
apedroza (2 adults 2 children)
kkiel02 (2 adults)
pennies2cents/Roscozman (2 adults)
Paul28 (2 adults, 2 children)
hobogato (2 adults, 2 children)
jennabee (2 adults, 4 children)
cowboy572 (1 adult)
txlizard (2 adults)
snfkotara (2 adults, 2 children)
Mr. Cob (1 adult)
Sherri (1 adult +1?)
Joe 31 (2 adults, 1 child)
txav8r (2 adults)
Allan (1 adult +1?)

[allan]

Kristy, you can add me to the list. I plan on attending for an hour or two. I doubt that I can get Milly to come with me, I'll let her weigh in on that one so for now I'm just 1.25 persons.

Hey Rob, do you want to car pool?

[hobogato]

sorry for another off topic post....

if you are a charter member and plan on attending, please dont forget to vote in the election time vote thread in the charter forum so the BOD can get a count of how many charter members will be there to vote.

http://www.maast.org/forums/showthread.php?t=55753

[allan]

Ace, you're tracking me as a wildcard right?

[Mr Cob]

Kristy, you can add me to the list. I plan on attending for an hour or two. I doubt that I can get Milly to come with me, I'll let her weigh in on that one so for now I'm just 1.25 persons.

Hey Rob, do you want to car pool?

Sure, as you know I'm only going for the business/election part.

If anyone else wants to ride with me and is only going for the voting and business part... meet at my house at....who knows what time right now. PM me and I'll send you my address.

*P.S. I moved...so don't assume you know where I live still...though it is just right up the road from the last house...LOL! Yes, I'm the only dork in the world that moves up the street.

[z28pwr]

I agree with Scorpino, why can't the BOD get together and change the bylaws to allow online voting.

[txav8r]

Jose, We are working on changing them. We had our hands tied for a bit by the NPO application. We have been given approval to make small changes in the bylaws. We are now working on making this an online election.

[Bill S]

I agree with Scorpino, why can't the BOD get together and change the bylaws to allow online voting.

And let's solve global poverty at the same time!

Seriously - we ARE working on this. Sounds really simple, right?

We have rules - thanks Jennifer (really -we miss you!).

It takes a minimum of 48 hours of discussion on an item before it can go to a vote. A MINIMUM.

From there, an online vote by the Board takes a minimum of 24 hours. In the case of a Bylaw change, this takes 75% of the Board to make the change. Sounds simple enough? OK, there ore 9 Board Members. 75% is 7 of the 9. Right now, one of the 9 is out of the country. That means we need an approval of 7 of 8 of the remaining Board Members, to agree on about 200 words of change to the Bylaws.

SERIOUSLY! We have been debating wording that IS important! For instance, should votes be visible? If not, we have no audit trail, but if so, people can see who voted for whom = no secret ballot. There are about 10 items like this!

So, folks, please. Just chill.

[Gseclipse02]

is it really that big of a deal to see who people voted for ???

i don't get why people make things so complicated

[Bill S]

is it really that big of a deal to see who people voted for ???

i don't get why people make things so complicated

So, what happens if a candidate requests a recount. If it's not public (ie, one someone can see), how do you accomplish that? "uh... that's what the totals said... uh... whadaya mean someone voted twice...". In the case of Directors, the software only allows us to allow folks to vote more than once. That means that if there are 6 seats and 10 running, you CAN vote for all 10. So, we NEED to be able to throw out your vote if you do this right? So, the vote needs to be public????

So yeah. It's complicated. Please, think before you criticize.

[Gseclipse02]

dont get all jumpy for no reason i think you read it the wrong way

i meant is it a big deal for others to see who people vote for... i could care less on who views my vote im not ashamed of who i vote for

[Mr Cob]

is it really that big of a deal to see who people voted for ???

i don't get why people make things so complicated

Julian... you could help make a difference and go accept your nomination.

http://maast.org/forums/showthread.php?t=55572

Did you see you were nominated for a BOD seat?

[Pennies2Cents]

Nominations will close tomorrow @ 6pm..

[Gseclipse02]

Julian... you could help make a difference and go accept your nomination.

http://maast.org/forums/showthread.php?t=55572

Did you see you were nominated for a BOD seat?

i got your pm i was debating it for a while ill look over it again in a few just finishing up a big project for school

[Bill S]

dont get all jumpy for no reason i think you read it the wrong way

Oh, that is VERY likely! I do it ALL of the time! No harm, no foul.

[allan]

Uh... this may be off topic, it certainly is off topic from the last few pages to this point so please feel free to remove it out of line.

If anyone wants a bag of chaeto at this meeting I can bring a bag to several bags to give out there at the meeting. w/copes and other things typically found in it.

[corruption]

I'll take one, Allan! :D

-Corruption

[allan]

Gotcha covered C.

[Kristy]

Uh... this may be off topic, it certainly is off topic from the last few pages to this point so please feel free to remove it out of line.

If anyone wants a bag of chaeto at this meeting I can bring a bag to several bags to give out there at the meeting. w/copes and other things typically found in it.

Seems more ON TOPIC to me, since it actually refers to the meeting!

We're gonna bring some chaeto too... we were thinking about putting a baggie in our white elephant gift (along with other goodies) and then bringing some extra for anyone else who would like some. You are welcome to borrow that idea and do the same if you like it, Allan.

[corruption]

Kristy: is the white elephant exchange 'mandatory'? We don't have much stuff laying around that would be of use to anyone (unless someone wants an air-driven Berlin Skimmer from Red Sea, or a half-dead ZooMed PowerSweep powerhead! :rofl: ) We're glad to participate in the toy drive, but we just don't really have anything useful..

-Corruption

[Kristy]

Well, no, OF COURSE it's not mandatory... but how can you go home with a bag of someone else's fun goodies if you haven't brought something of your own to contribute? And the more people who participate, the more fun it will be for everybody.

Maybe we should have a suggestion discussion in case it sparks anyone's ideas. Not talking about bringing in anything high dollar such as equipment (although you could if for some reason you had an extra powerhead or something inexpensive you were willing to pass along). Mike and I were kicking around the following ideas: some fish food that we have a TON of and will never use up in a million years, a bag of macro, a cheap frag of zoas or palys or GSP that we would give out freely and not one we would charge any/much $ for, a portion of charcoal or filter floss or similar media...

Anyone else want to share ideas?

[corruption]

This is exactly what I figured the trade outs would be, but alas, we still don't have much useful... I of course wouldn't take home a bag of goodies if I'm not providing goodies -- its only fair, thats how every other White Elephant exchange I've taken place in was run :)

...OOH! I know exactly what we can bring! Nevermind, scratch my comment, I do have something! :D

-Corruption

[allan]

Good idea Kristy. I have a few low budget items sitting around that I don't plan on using. In fact if I have two of somethings can I wrap each individually or should it be a single grab bag thing?

eeeh, I'm so excited... never mind that was just a chill caused by the air conditioning in my office. Hot in the summer and cold in the winter. Hmpt!!! government offices... brrr

[Kristy]

Your call - you could bring an extra for someone who didn't remember to bring one, etc. or you could make your one gift extra fabulous by putting in the extra. Hopefully the recipient would want to continue the spirit of generosity and pass it along to someone who needed it.

[allan]

Airborne!

I asked because what I'm thinking of bringing most usually have two in their tanks, and I would imagine that if someone could use it they probably already either have one or two in their tanks which would make the one addition either great or superflous.

I'll rummage my garage. If I come up with a plethora of items I'll make a second to cover down on another that could use the gift.

I'm looking forward to meeting you folks.

[Kristy]

Reminder - The December meeting is Saturday from 1:00 - 5:00! Hope you will be there! :bighug:


Directions to the Dunbar Recreation Center:
1. From IH-35 N, take exit 204 (toward San Marcos / Seguin / TX-82 Loop W / TX 123 Loop S)
2. Take turnaround to be on IH-35 S access road (or left turn followed by left turn to be on the southbound frontage road.)
3. Take the first right onto Patton St.
4. Turn left on Gravel St.
5. Take the first right onto S. Mitchell St.
6. Turn right on W. Martin Luther King Dr. Dunbar Recreation Center will be on the right at corner of Endicott St. and W. MLK Dr.

Here is the link for the map. (http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&geocode=&q=801+Martin+Luther+King+Dr,+San+Marcos,+Hays,+Tex as+78666&sll=29.875946,-97.944317&sspn=0.006903,0.012553&ie=UTF8&hq=&hnear=801+W+Martin+Luther+King+Dr,+San+Marcos,+Hay s,+Texas+78666&ll=29.877006,-97.947214&spn=0.013806,0.025105&z=15)

(Special thanks to Erik for teaching me to how to link the map!)

[Pennies2Cents]

Looking forward to seeing everybody! :) C- ya there!

[Sherri]

Looking forward to seeing everyone...:)

[Gseclipse02]

is there a time schedule of how and whats going on ?

[saabtech]

it seems i have to work on every meet. i would really like to make one soon.
will there be/has there ever been a post concerning the minutes of the meeting/new business and old business.

[Pennies2Cents]

saabtech,

You can find the meeting minutes by following this link:

http://www.maast.org/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=81

[corruption]

Our car is in the shop til early this afternoon, so we may not make it til 2-3, but we'll still be there! :) Can't wait to meet you all! :D

-Corruption

[allan]

I am going up for an hour or two, I have a couple vacancies in my truck if anyone wants to hitch a ride. LMK through PM.

[corruption]

Ugh, car is still being worked on... not looking like we're gonna get to make it after all :( Sorry guys :(

-Corruption

[txav8r]

We were wondering what happened to you.

Thanks to all those that made it. It was a fun meeting! My favorite part was the karaoke duet from Mike and Ace. Justin's performance was a close 2nd.

[Paul28]

Had a great time lots of fun and thank god the kids are sleeping early :)

[profntbtr]

i had to work late. i went in early to assure i would be off and mobile, but some stuff came up and i just got off half an hour ago.

[hobogato]

thanks again for the work kristy and everyone else, it was a lot of fun. good to see everyone again, it has been a while.

[cowboy572]

Thanks to Kristy and everyone for a great party. Lots of fun. Jack I enjoyed your version of "Frosty the Snowman".

[justahobby]

We had a great time and Kristy did an amazing job coordinating her first event. It was great the way everyone acted as a team especially when it was time to tackle the cleaning up. It's a shame so many people missed such an event.

We are some karaoke maniacs! lol

[Kristy]

I had fun and I agree with Justin about how great it was to see everyone just tearing up that clean-up job together.

Mike and I were just talking about how we wish that we had wrapped up a bag of macro or something totally worthless inside a Vortech box, just to mess with the recipient! :bigsmile:

[justahobby]

:rofl:

It would work.
Except, I would be the one running out the door to set it up before anyone had a chance to stop me


I had fun and I agree with Justin about how great it was to see everyone just tearing up that clean-up job together.

Mike and I were just talking about how we wish that we had wrapped up a bag of macro or something totally worthless inside a Vortech box, just to mess with the recipient! :bigsmile:

[snfkotara]

Im sorry I missed it. I was looking forward all week getting my gift together, then this morning my husband had different plans, so once again HE comes first. Gotta love them. It sounds like it was so much fun.