Steve, sorry but your post is last I read and don't know where this fits in best so you win and get my reponse.

This is an interesting thread and have read some but by no means all of the posts.

I, for one, have thought about seeking a nomination (Treasurer, as I'm a bean counter and Treasurer of another organization so that's my interest and best way to help out) but have not pursued because I am rather new to the group (about 3 years) and for other "various reasons."

Here are my thoughts on the "whole" process and my other "various reasons:"

First and foremost, I'm on the East Coast and the logistics and time difference would be too cumbersome for me.

Secondly, this club, like every other organization, has many seasoned members that probably would feel awkward with a newbie on the BOD.

Thirdly, politics. There are numerous "factions" to win over whether is or "to clean or not clean," people have strong opinions and are not shy when it comes to voicing them (believe me I got all barrels of the shotgun when I posted a chip in a rectangular air-tite, rather than the more common circular, whew, that was interesting!!) and may not see what's best for the club rather than just voting against someone just because "we had differing opions and traded words on a topic."

Fourthly, when you are an "unknown" nominee, people naturally band together for the "known" candidate irrespective of the qualifications of either nominee.

Lastly, there's no real "election forum" that I can see (not that I have thoroughly read thru the By-laws and constitution) but a permanent thread with the nominees and their bio's and qualifications would be most helpful in the decision-making process.

I am a firm believer that if you don't vote, then you voted for the winner. Having managed to be flying West to East for any real national election in the last 20 years, plus living in a one-party state, my vote was wasted on the winners!!

Without active particiaption by the membership and an accessible forum to judge the nominees, this or any election for that matter, becomes a popularity contest where unless you're with the "in crowd" you're not going to stand a chance.

I hope that I have stirred and offended some people into action, in a good way! Top of the morning to all!!

Regards,

Steve
R-7572