It was very exciting to have an opportunity to hear the candidates at the Membership meeting last night. You will have a very different board starting June 1, regardless of who wins. You will be electing six candidates - five for a two year term, and one for a one year term. Please make sure that you vote.
All candidates' e-mail addresses are being made available to you so if you have any questions to ask of them, send them an e-mail and ask the question.
Let's see a HUGE turnout. This is your chance to choose who will lead your organization and make decisions that affect you and the local performing arts community. Very few people voted last year, and based on the results, you will see that the difference in votes between those who won and those who didn't is very small. Every one of your votes is very important.
This election needs to be about more than name recognition, or who you know. Base your vote on the candidates' answers to your questions. Base it on who you think will work hard, and meet deadlines. Base it on who you know can cooperate with others, even those with whom they disagree.
Think about what the candidates can bring to our organization in the way of both inside and outside experience.
*************************************************************************************
Below, I have reprinted the results of last year's election.
The following 5 candidates were elected to 2 year terms each:
Mark Jeffries 187 votes
B. J . Nelson 187 votes
Linda Berg 183 votes
Deborah Granite 174 votes
Hugh Spencer 159 votes
The following 2 candidates were elected to 1 year terms each:
Lorraine Edelstein 156 votes
Sharon McLean 148 votes
___________________________________________________________________________
The following 4 candidates were not elected:
Marvin Levin 141 votes
David Goldberg 131 votes
Laura Sapoznik 89 votes
Carole Howard 86 votes
____________________________________________________________________________
Total ballots counted - 251
Total ballots disqualified per established rules - 12
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Friday, April 23, 2010
Elections
I have been very quiet and very busy during the past month. As I was catching up on my Saints e-mail, and planning a coordinator meeting, I realized that I hadn't looked at my blog for close to a month.
It is very exciting to see that there is an election commission, and that candidates are voicing their ideas and opinions in response to serious questions. The quality of some of the questions is outstanding, and very thought provoking. The responses from the candidates have been candid, and people have not always taken the easy route when responding. It's so wonderful.
On Monday, April 26, there will be a membership meeting where candidates will be nominated, find out their ballot positions, and publicly answer questions from the membership. What a change from last year's elections. It's so refreshing.
Right now, we have nine candidates for six board positions.
What is most refreshing is how many people are helping and how people have stepped up to work hard to make the Saints an even better organization. We have smoothly made a transition during what is the busiest time of year for the Saints. Election time, renewals, new members coming to orientations, making the mailed Spotlight available on a subscription basis, new venues, new coordinators, board meetings, membership meetings, appreciation events, determining grant recipients, drafting a "privacy policy" and rewriting bylaws. Wow. Lots of hard work and lots of volunteers.
We are a vibrant organization. After a very challenging year, we are coming through and have definitely grown in numbers and sophistication.
Let's make sure that we have a good turnout Monday at the membership meeting. There will be an opportunity to ask questions of the candidates, sign up for ushering, and socialize.
Vittum Theatre, 1012 N Noble on April 26 at 7 pm
Do not park in the parking lot in back of the building but park on the street or use public transportation.
I hope to see many of you there.
It is very exciting to see that there is an election commission, and that candidates are voicing their ideas and opinions in response to serious questions. The quality of some of the questions is outstanding, and very thought provoking. The responses from the candidates have been candid, and people have not always taken the easy route when responding. It's so wonderful.
On Monday, April 26, there will be a membership meeting where candidates will be nominated, find out their ballot positions, and publicly answer questions from the membership. What a change from last year's elections. It's so refreshing.
Right now, we have nine candidates for six board positions.
What is most refreshing is how many people are helping and how people have stepped up to work hard to make the Saints an even better organization. We have smoothly made a transition during what is the busiest time of year for the Saints. Election time, renewals, new members coming to orientations, making the mailed Spotlight available on a subscription basis, new venues, new coordinators, board meetings, membership meetings, appreciation events, determining grant recipients, drafting a "privacy policy" and rewriting bylaws. Wow. Lots of hard work and lots of volunteers.
We are a vibrant organization. After a very challenging year, we are coming through and have definitely grown in numbers and sophistication.
Let's make sure that we have a good turnout Monday at the membership meeting. There will be an opportunity to ask questions of the candidates, sign up for ushering, and socialize.
Vittum Theatre, 1012 N Noble on April 26 at 7 pm
Do not park in the parking lot in back of the building but park on the street or use public transportation.
I hope to see many of you there.
Friday, March 19, 2010
Change in Leadership
The board meeting scheduled for the morning of March 6 convened with a quorum but three board members, all of them officers, did not show up. They had sent their resignations to the Saints membership during the night. Those of us who came to the board meeting had not received an agenda from Mr. Lingras, although we knew that there were many time sensitive issues that needed attention. Many of us had submitted agenda items to the President, and we expected him to be there. Some of the agenda items included setting dues for 2010-2011, selection of an election commission, passing a budget, and getting an update on the financial reports which are long overdue.
The Board of Directors advised the many observers that we would begin with a brief executive session. Observers were asked to please stick around because they would be invited back to observe our meeting as soon as we had finished selection of officers and an election commission, which will become operational if there are more candidates than board vacancies. The board elected two interim officers, Hugh Spencer as President and Jim Venskus as Secretary. No Treasurer has been appointed yet, however discussions and contacts have been made. Hopefully, the position will be filled at our next board meeting. In addition, we appointed board members and a coordinator to handle certain responsibilities on an interim basis – The appointments are as follows:
CSO Coordinator – Hugh Spencer
Grant Committee Liaison – Jim Venskus
Membership Coordinator – Deborah Granite
Coordinator Liaison – Deborah Granite
Cyberline Editor - Ray Rasane, a coordinator for 16th Street
Mark Jeffries will continue as Communications Chair and Spotlight Editor, and Lorraine Edelstein will continue as Program Chair. She will also manage the Appreciation Event.
The five board members in attendance (Hugh Spencer, Jim Venskus, Mark Jeffries, Lorraine Edelstein and Deborah Granite) voted to keep the dues at the same amount as last year - $45 for renewals postmarked or paid by credit card before June 1, and $65 for new members and renewals postmarked or paid by credit card on or after June 1. Rates for mailed subscriptions to the Spotlight have not yet been determined.
We are still in the process of obtaining the information necessary to ensure a smooth transition. Bank account access needs to be transferred, a Treasurer needs to be appointed, and information from those who have handled the above responsibilities for the past nine months needs to be transferred to those of us who will see that the organization continues to operate smoothly. This is the busiest time of year due to membership renewals, influx of new members who want to join at the beginning of the fiscal year, decisions regarding the awarding of grants, preparation of next year’s budget, elections, as well as an annual meeting for coordinators, the annual membership meeting, an appreciation luncheon, and the BJ Nelson Memorial event. Those who attended the last board meeting are working diligently to make sure that everything is handled but we will need patience and support from the membership. We also hope that the board members who resigned as officers will help ensure that both this transition and the May 31 transition is seamless.
Members need to step forward and run for office (it looks like there will be six vacancies on the board – five two year positions and a one year position). Andy Lingras has stated that he will not be seeking re-election however we have not heard from all of the board members whose terms will expire on May 31, 2010. Letters of intent are to be sent to the Saints President no later than April 1. Instructions for submitting a letter of intent are contained in the March 19th Cyberline and on the Saints website.
I am hopeful that the official Saints communication sources which include the Cyberline, the Spotlight and the Saints website will be your primary information source. I am also hopeful that the forum option on the website will be activated as soon as our Board re-convenes and has a chance to discuss the process for moderating it. Until then, feel free to post your comments here or on the Volunteer Ushers' Discussion Group - Saints. There is a link at the top of this site, and you can also subscribe to receive e-mails when there are posts to the Discussion Group.
In addition, I am hopeful that we will establish clear guidelines regarding the appropriate use of official Saints communications. The membership directory has been used by certain individuals without going through proper channels. For right now, I want to encourage people to communicate with all board members by logging onto the Saints website, and clicking on “contact us” at the top of the home page. You will now be able to send an e-mail to all of the board members by selecting “Board of Directors” in the drop down box.
Also, be sure to attend the general membership meeting on Monday, March 22 at 7:00 pm at Northeastern Illinois University Recital Hall. Our speaker is a terrific actor, Karen Aldridge, who you may have seen at Chicago Shakespeare, Next, Goodman, Steppenwolf or Writers' Theater. You may sign up for ushering opportunities, ask questions of the board, meet coordinators, and meet fellow Saints' members. Parking in the indoor garage is free. Refer to the Cyberline or the Spotlight for additional details.
The Board of Directors advised the many observers that we would begin with a brief executive session. Observers were asked to please stick around because they would be invited back to observe our meeting as soon as we had finished selection of officers and an election commission, which will become operational if there are more candidates than board vacancies. The board elected two interim officers, Hugh Spencer as President and Jim Venskus as Secretary. No Treasurer has been appointed yet, however discussions and contacts have been made. Hopefully, the position will be filled at our next board meeting. In addition, we appointed board members and a coordinator to handle certain responsibilities on an interim basis – The appointments are as follows:
CSO Coordinator – Hugh Spencer
Grant Committee Liaison – Jim Venskus
Membership Coordinator – Deborah Granite
Coordinator Liaison – Deborah Granite
Cyberline Editor - Ray Rasane, a coordinator for 16th Street
Mark Jeffries will continue as Communications Chair and Spotlight Editor, and Lorraine Edelstein will continue as Program Chair. She will also manage the Appreciation Event.
The five board members in attendance (Hugh Spencer, Jim Venskus, Mark Jeffries, Lorraine Edelstein and Deborah Granite) voted to keep the dues at the same amount as last year - $45 for renewals postmarked or paid by credit card before June 1, and $65 for new members and renewals postmarked or paid by credit card on or after June 1. Rates for mailed subscriptions to the Spotlight have not yet been determined.
We are still in the process of obtaining the information necessary to ensure a smooth transition. Bank account access needs to be transferred, a Treasurer needs to be appointed, and information from those who have handled the above responsibilities for the past nine months needs to be transferred to those of us who will see that the organization continues to operate smoothly. This is the busiest time of year due to membership renewals, influx of new members who want to join at the beginning of the fiscal year, decisions regarding the awarding of grants, preparation of next year’s budget, elections, as well as an annual meeting for coordinators, the annual membership meeting, an appreciation luncheon, and the BJ Nelson Memorial event. Those who attended the last board meeting are working diligently to make sure that everything is handled but we will need patience and support from the membership. We also hope that the board members who resigned as officers will help ensure that both this transition and the May 31 transition is seamless.
Members need to step forward and run for office (it looks like there will be six vacancies on the board – five two year positions and a one year position). Andy Lingras has stated that he will not be seeking re-election however we have not heard from all of the board members whose terms will expire on May 31, 2010. Letters of intent are to be sent to the Saints President no later than April 1. Instructions for submitting a letter of intent are contained in the March 19th Cyberline and on the Saints website.
I am hopeful that the official Saints communication sources which include the Cyberline, the Spotlight and the Saints website will be your primary information source. I am also hopeful that the forum option on the website will be activated as soon as our Board re-convenes and has a chance to discuss the process for moderating it. Until then, feel free to post your comments here or on the Volunteer Ushers' Discussion Group - Saints. There is a link at the top of this site, and you can also subscribe to receive e-mails when there are posts to the Discussion Group.
In addition, I am hopeful that we will establish clear guidelines regarding the appropriate use of official Saints communications. The membership directory has been used by certain individuals without going through proper channels. For right now, I want to encourage people to communicate with all board members by logging onto the Saints website, and clicking on “contact us” at the top of the home page. You will now be able to send an e-mail to all of the board members by selecting “Board of Directors” in the drop down box.
Also, be sure to attend the general membership meeting on Monday, March 22 at 7:00 pm at Northeastern Illinois University Recital Hall. Our speaker is a terrific actor, Karen Aldridge, who you may have seen at Chicago Shakespeare, Next, Goodman, Steppenwolf or Writers' Theater. You may sign up for ushering opportunities, ask questions of the board, meet coordinators, and meet fellow Saints' members. Parking in the indoor garage is free. Refer to the Cyberline or the Spotlight for additional details.
Monday, March 1, 2010
"SaintsVoice?" NOT!
On page 4 of the February and March Spotlight, there is a new e-mail heading on the list of contact information called SPEAK OUT. Next to this heading is a newly created e-mail address that was recently announced in the Cyberline. The address is also publicized on page 29 and states "Speak out on the Saints and get a response." There is no explanation that e-mail sent to this address goes directly to the President, Andy Lingras, and no other board member. I believe that establishing this e-mail address and publicizing it as the place to express one's viewpoints about the Saints is deceptive, an attempt to cut the board off from the membership, as well as self-serving. As many of you may have heard, Mr. Lingras' two year term will be expiring on May 31st, and if he wishes to stay on the board, he will have to run in a contested election.
The establishment of this address did not receive board approval and is another example of Andy Lingras’ abuse of presidential power. Mr. Lingras already has at least three active e-mail addresses that are publicized in the Spotlight - one with his own name as a Board Contact, one as the CSO Coordinator, and one as the Cyberline contact. One would think that people have enough ways to send an e-mail to the President. But Mr. Lingras has created an additional e-mail that appears as though it is the primary vehicle for voicing one's opinions about the organization.
Two members of the Board, Jim Venskus and I, have had our names removed from the Contact List on the website. That is 25% of your Board's voting directors. When asked about the fact that two elected board members are not listed, Mr. Lingras' response was that members could look for our e-mail address in the Spotlight.
I think we have an answer to the question – Democracy or Dictatorship? Take the extra time to send your e-mail to each of the eight board members if you want your voice to truly be heard.
The establishment of this address did not receive board approval and is another example of Andy Lingras’ abuse of presidential power. Mr. Lingras already has at least three active e-mail addresses that are publicized in the Spotlight - one with his own name as a Board Contact, one as the CSO Coordinator, and one as the Cyberline contact. One would think that people have enough ways to send an e-mail to the President. But Mr. Lingras has created an additional e-mail that appears as though it is the primary vehicle for voicing one's opinions about the organization.
Two members of the Board, Jim Venskus and I, have had our names removed from the Contact List on the website. That is 25% of your Board's voting directors. When asked about the fact that two elected board members are not listed, Mr. Lingras' response was that members could look for our e-mail address in the Spotlight.
I think we have an answer to the question – Democracy or Dictatorship? Take the extra time to send your e-mail to each of the eight board members if you want your voice to truly be heard.
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
Saints Membership Meeting
Last night, about seventy-five Saints members came to a general membership meeting at the Raven Theatre to hear Jeffrey Marks, a Chicago attorney, talk with us about the Jeff Committee. He gave us insight into how the committee works, some of the unique challenges of the Chicago Theater community, and how the Jeff Committee has evolved over the years. We are so lucky to live in Chicago and have access to what many believe to be the best theater town in the world.
Our speaker was followed by another Question and Answer session with the Saints Board of Directors. Prior to the session, members submitted questions to specific board members on index cards. The session was presided over by our Interim President, Andy Lingras. It seemed that he had difficulty reading the many questions that were submitted, and did not provide specifics when responding. Instead, he told members that the board would be making decisions and sharing results in the near future – even though some of these questions have been asked repeatedly for months and months. He also used the time to promote some of his goals for the Saints, one of which is to make the portion of our dues that goes toward funding grants to the performing arts community “optional.”
Andy seems to have forgotten that there are seven other board members, and continues to use the Cyberline and membership meetings to promote his personal agenda. It is sad that the Bylaws were pushed through last year. The haste with which these bylaws were developed, and the limited input from members other than Mr. Lingras, have been obvious to many of us over and over again. Now, rather than follow the bylaws that he crafted, he is proposing that we vote to amend them at our next general membership meeting.
The bylaws do not protect member rights at all. There is no recourse for stopping Mr. Lingras from using Robert’s Rules when he feels like it and ignoring them when he doesn’t, pushing through a takeover of the organization when the Presidency unexpectedly became vacant, calling for executive sessions for inappropriate reasons, deciding who on the board can access information and how it may be used, controlling board meeting agendas, establishing and promoting an e-mail address that can only be accessed by him, and instructing board members as to what they may or may not say to the membership.
Members: If you care about the Saints, then reclaim your organization by asking to attend the next board meeting which is scheduled for Saturday, March 6th at 10 am. Come to the next membership meeting on Monday, March 22 at 7pm. And most importantly, meet the new candidates at the April meeting and VOTE.
Our speaker was followed by another Question and Answer session with the Saints Board of Directors. Prior to the session, members submitted questions to specific board members on index cards. The session was presided over by our Interim President, Andy Lingras. It seemed that he had difficulty reading the many questions that were submitted, and did not provide specifics when responding. Instead, he told members that the board would be making decisions and sharing results in the near future – even though some of these questions have been asked repeatedly for months and months. He also used the time to promote some of his goals for the Saints, one of which is to make the portion of our dues that goes toward funding grants to the performing arts community “optional.”
Andy seems to have forgotten that there are seven other board members, and continues to use the Cyberline and membership meetings to promote his personal agenda. It is sad that the Bylaws were pushed through last year. The haste with which these bylaws were developed, and the limited input from members other than Mr. Lingras, have been obvious to many of us over and over again. Now, rather than follow the bylaws that he crafted, he is proposing that we vote to amend them at our next general membership meeting.
The bylaws do not protect member rights at all. There is no recourse for stopping Mr. Lingras from using Robert’s Rules when he feels like it and ignoring them when he doesn’t, pushing through a takeover of the organization when the Presidency unexpectedly became vacant, calling for executive sessions for inappropriate reasons, deciding who on the board can access information and how it may be used, controlling board meeting agendas, establishing and promoting an e-mail address that can only be accessed by him, and instructing board members as to what they may or may not say to the membership.
Members: If you care about the Saints, then reclaim your organization by asking to attend the next board meeting which is scheduled for Saturday, March 6th at 10 am. Come to the next membership meeting on Monday, March 22 at 7pm. And most importantly, meet the new candidates at the April meeting and VOTE.
Monday, February 1, 2010
Democracy or Dictatorship?
Have you noticed that there seems to be a very strong leadership presence in our “democratic” organization? You don’t hear from two of the eight board members , Deb Granite and Jim Venskus, much anymore, and it isn’t easy to find our contact information.
Today, the Cyberline had a request for you to send your concerns, etc. to our new board President, Andy Lingras, at a brand new address. This new address also appears on the last page of the February Spotlight. He also shared with you his “personal” goals that include making the part of dues that fund grants to the performing arts community optional.
What is the reason that you are being encouraged to circumvent our board of directors, and correspond with the newly elected Saints President directly?
Why does this board member have a direct communication line with the membership, but other board members are advised that it is a violation of confidentiality to correspond with Saints members about anything other than ushering?
How did this individual become the President, and how did each of the board members vote?
What is his past experience and what not for profit "business" did he work for during the seven years that is referenced in today’s Cyberline?
Why is this individual setting up a private mail box rather than encouraging people to share their views and concerns with the board at large?
Why isn't this individual utilizing the forum capabilities on Club Express (it was used to solicit tributes for BJ)?
Remember to send all correspondence to the entire board of directors and not to a single individual. That way, you can be sure that your correspondence will be seen by the entire Saints Board of Directors.
Today, the Cyberline had a request for you to send your concerns, etc. to our new board President, Andy Lingras, at a brand new address. This new address also appears on the last page of the February Spotlight. He also shared with you his “personal” goals that include making the part of dues that fund grants to the performing arts community optional.
What is the reason that you are being encouraged to circumvent our board of directors, and correspond with the newly elected Saints President directly?
Why does this board member have a direct communication line with the membership, but other board members are advised that it is a violation of confidentiality to correspond with Saints members about anything other than ushering?
How did this individual become the President, and how did each of the board members vote?
What is his past experience and what not for profit "business" did he work for during the seven years that is referenced in today’s Cyberline?
Why is this individual setting up a private mail box rather than encouraging people to share their views and concerns with the board at large?
Why isn't this individual utilizing the forum capabilities on Club Express (it was used to solicit tributes for BJ)?
Remember to send all correspondence to the entire board of directors and not to a single individual. That way, you can be sure that your correspondence will be seen by the entire Saints Board of Directors.
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
Online Discussion - Post Your Thoughts
I am writing for the first time in quite awhile because I agree with the anonymous comments that this blog is primarily my point of view. Much as I would have liked to see more comments, they just weren't coming. I decided to step back for awhile and wait... I have been listening to what others are doing and saying. It seems like there is a lot going on.
A blog is typically a place where someone communicates their point of view or ideas. There are limitations because of the way a blog is constructed. Those who visit this blog don’t have a place to initiate a discussion or start their own topic. There now is a place where you can start your own topic and/or respond to other people's topics. Simply click on this blue link. Volunteer Ushers' Discussion Group - Saints. You may also post without signing up for a google account by clicking on the following blue link and sending an e-mail directly to the site UshersDiscussionGroup@googlegroups.com.
Without this blog, I seriously doubt whether I would have been reinstated into the Saints. And it is the only way that many of you were able to find out about what was going on over the past six months. There have been some major changes in the organization and communication is opening up – minutes are posted on the Saints website, question and answer sessions are held at general membership meetings, observers regularly show up at board meetings, and members are talking with each other about the organization and holding the Board of Directors accountable. This is wonderful.
I am confident that this year there will be elections where issues are discussed, and members will be able to base their votes on more than name recognition and a 150 word statement. Already, I see more people participating on committees. There are a large number of members working on the Bylaws. There is greater awareness of our potential as an organization and we are not the same organization that we were five years ago, or even six months ago. We have not only grown in size but in terms of our membership’s expectations. And we have grown in terms of the performing arts community’s expectations.
At last night’s membership meeting, we heard a presentation, given by Hollis Resnik, followed by a generous opportunity to ask her all kinds of questions. The quality of our speakers is something we look forward to, and have come to expect. Part of why we get such good speakers is because we do matter as an organization, and our membership is respected.
Following the presentation, we had a scheduled question and answer session where the members were given an opportunity to ask questions of the board. The discussion was animated; and although there was controversy, the spirit of the discussion was positive. Let’s keep the dialog going.
We have a diverse and intelligent membership. The Saints is a great organization and has the potential to be even greater. We have a lot more we can contribute to the Chicago performing arts community. And there is more that our organization can provide to us. Our 30th year should be a very exciting one.
A blog is typically a place where someone communicates their point of view or ideas. There are limitations because of the way a blog is constructed. Those who visit this blog don’t have a place to initiate a discussion or start their own topic. There now is a place where you can start your own topic and/or respond to other people's topics. Simply click on this blue link. Volunteer Ushers' Discussion Group - Saints. You may also post without signing up for a google account by clicking on the following blue link and sending an e-mail directly to the site UshersDiscussionGroup@googlegroups.com.
Without this blog, I seriously doubt whether I would have been reinstated into the Saints. And it is the only way that many of you were able to find out about what was going on over the past six months. There have been some major changes in the organization and communication is opening up – minutes are posted on the Saints website, question and answer sessions are held at general membership meetings, observers regularly show up at board meetings, and members are talking with each other about the organization and holding the Board of Directors accountable. This is wonderful.
I am confident that this year there will be elections where issues are discussed, and members will be able to base their votes on more than name recognition and a 150 word statement. Already, I see more people participating on committees. There are a large number of members working on the Bylaws. There is greater awareness of our potential as an organization and we are not the same organization that we were five years ago, or even six months ago. We have not only grown in size but in terms of our membership’s expectations. And we have grown in terms of the performing arts community’s expectations.
At last night’s membership meeting, we heard a presentation, given by Hollis Resnik, followed by a generous opportunity to ask her all kinds of questions. The quality of our speakers is something we look forward to, and have come to expect. Part of why we get such good speakers is because we do matter as an organization, and our membership is respected.
Following the presentation, we had a scheduled question and answer session where the members were given an opportunity to ask questions of the board. The discussion was animated; and although there was controversy, the spirit of the discussion was positive. Let’s keep the dialog going.
We have a diverse and intelligent membership. The Saints is a great organization and has the potential to be even greater. We have a lot more we can contribute to the Chicago performing arts community. And there is more that our organization can provide to us. Our 30th year should be a very exciting one.
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
Acting President? To Be Determined...
The current Bylaws, as well as those preceding them, have no provisions for what to do if an officer resigns or is unable to complete his or her term. Right now, with the tragic death of B. J. Nelson, we have no President and will need to look to Robert's Rules of Order, which does address what should be done as far as chairing our meetings.
Andy Lingras is listed in the January Spotlight as being our Acting President. He has also referred to himself in correspondence as the "Acting President." This is not correct. Andy Lingras is the Secretary of the Saints, and will be calling our meeting to order on Saturday, January 9. At that time, the Board will need to discuss the situation, and vote how to proceed. Most organizations of our size and longevity would be able to look to the Bylaws to specify what should be done when there is a board vacancy or when an officer is unable to complete their term.
Members need to write and let the board know what they think should be done since the current Bylaws do not address our situation. Who do we put in place as the chair or President for the balance of the year, or do we select a chair pro tem at the beginning of each meeting until the end of the fiscal year, at which time we will have had another election. Do we fill the board vacancy or operate with eight directors since the Bylaws specify that we are required to have between seven and nine board members, and are not required to fill the vacancy? Do we fill the board vacancy with a candidate from last Spring? Do we fill the board vacancy with a former board member?
I want to thank and commend the members of the Bylaws working group who are working hard to see that we have a complete, clear set of Bylaws for future use, Bylaws that are specific to the needs of the Saints. Like a constitution, Bylaws provide structure to an organization and are very important when dealing with issues such as governance, officers' duties, succession, member rights, and so on. With 2000 members, and a budget of over $100,000, it is critical that we have procedures in place that protect the organization, and give the board the structure it needs to operate efficiently and fairly.
By reading the excerpts or clicking on the link at the end of this posting, you may read Roberts Rules of Order Revised for yourselves. You will see how complicated they are, and how we will benefit from having a good set of Bylaws specific to the Saints to work with.
Below are a couple of relevant excerpts from Robert's Rules of Order Revised and a link:
The secretary should, previous to each meeting, for the use of the chairman, make out an order of business, showing in their exact order what is necessarily to come before the assembly. He should also have, at each meeting, a list of all standing committees, and such special committees as are in existence at the time, as well as the by-laws of the organization and its minutes. His desk should be near that of the chairman, and in the absence of the chairman (if there is no vice president present), when the hour for opening the session arrives, it is his duty to call the meeting to order, and to preside until the election of a chairman pro tem., which should take place immediately. He should keep a record of the proceedings, stating what was done and not what was said, unless it is to be published, and never making criticisms, favorable or otherwise, on anything said or done. This record, usually called the minutes, is kept as explained in the next section. When a committee is appointed, the secretary should hand the names of the committee, and all papers referred to it, to the chairman of the committee, or some other of its members. He should indorse on the reports of committees the date of their reception, and what further action was taken upon them, and preserve them among the records, for which he is responsible. It is not necessary to vote that a report be "placed on file," as that should be done without a vote, except in organizations that habitually keep no records except their minutes and papers ordered on file.
If it is necessary for the chairman to vacate the chair the first Vice President, if there is one, should take the chair, and in his absence the next one in order should take it. If there is no vice president in the hall, then the chairman may, if it is necessary to vacate the chair, appoint a chairman pro tem., but the first adjournment puts an end to the appointment, which the assembly can terminate before, if it pleases, by electing another chairman. But the regular chairman, knowing that he will be absent from a future meeting, cannot authorize another member to act in his place at such meeting; the secretary, or, in his absence, some other member should in such case call the meeting to order, and a chairman pro tem. be elected who would hold office during that session, unless such office is terminated by the entrance of the president or a vice president, or by the election of another chairman pro tem., which may be done by a majority vote.
Roberts Rules of Order Revised website
Andy Lingras is listed in the January Spotlight as being our Acting President. He has also referred to himself in correspondence as the "Acting President." This is not correct. Andy Lingras is the Secretary of the Saints, and will be calling our meeting to order on Saturday, January 9. At that time, the Board will need to discuss the situation, and vote how to proceed. Most organizations of our size and longevity would be able to look to the Bylaws to specify what should be done when there is a board vacancy or when an officer is unable to complete their term.
Members need to write and let the board know what they think should be done since the current Bylaws do not address our situation. Who do we put in place as the chair or President for the balance of the year, or do we select a chair pro tem at the beginning of each meeting until the end of the fiscal year, at which time we will have had another election. Do we fill the board vacancy or operate with eight directors since the Bylaws specify that we are required to have between seven and nine board members, and are not required to fill the vacancy? Do we fill the board vacancy with a candidate from last Spring? Do we fill the board vacancy with a former board member?
I want to thank and commend the members of the Bylaws working group who are working hard to see that we have a complete, clear set of Bylaws for future use, Bylaws that are specific to the needs of the Saints. Like a constitution, Bylaws provide structure to an organization and are very important when dealing with issues such as governance, officers' duties, succession, member rights, and so on. With 2000 members, and a budget of over $100,000, it is critical that we have procedures in place that protect the organization, and give the board the structure it needs to operate efficiently and fairly.
By reading the excerpts or clicking on the link at the end of this posting, you may read Roberts Rules of Order Revised for yourselves. You will see how complicated they are, and how we will benefit from having a good set of Bylaws specific to the Saints to work with.
Below are a couple of relevant excerpts from Robert's Rules of Order Revised and a link:
The secretary should, previous to each meeting, for the use of the chairman, make out an order of business, showing in their exact order what is necessarily to come before the assembly. He should also have, at each meeting, a list of all standing committees, and such special committees as are in existence at the time, as well as the by-laws of the organization and its minutes. His desk should be near that of the chairman, and in the absence of the chairman (if there is no vice president present), when the hour for opening the session arrives, it is his duty to call the meeting to order, and to preside until the election of a chairman pro tem., which should take place immediately. He should keep a record of the proceedings, stating what was done and not what was said, unless it is to be published, and never making criticisms, favorable or otherwise, on anything said or done. This record, usually called the minutes, is kept as explained in the next section. When a committee is appointed, the secretary should hand the names of the committee, and all papers referred to it, to the chairman of the committee, or some other of its members. He should indorse on the reports of committees the date of their reception, and what further action was taken upon them, and preserve them among the records, for which he is responsible. It is not necessary to vote that a report be "placed on file," as that should be done without a vote, except in organizations that habitually keep no records except their minutes and papers ordered on file.
If it is necessary for the chairman to vacate the chair the first Vice President, if there is one, should take the chair, and in his absence the next one in order should take it. If there is no vice president in the hall, then the chairman may, if it is necessary to vacate the chair, appoint a chairman pro tem., but the first adjournment puts an end to the appointment, which the assembly can terminate before, if it pleases, by electing another chairman. But the regular chairman, knowing that he will be absent from a future meeting, cannot authorize another member to act in his place at such meeting; the secretary, or, in his absence, some other member should in such case call the meeting to order, and a chairman pro tem. be elected who would hold office during that session, unless such office is terminated by the entrance of the president or a vice president, or by the election of another chairman pro tem., which may be done by a majority vote.
Roberts Rules of Order Revised website
Friday, December 25, 2009
Send E-mails to the Board
There is a board meeting that will be held in early January. If you cannot attend as an observer, it would be a good idea to voice your opinions to the board (and I mean each of us, not just one person) by e-mail about the following:
$30,000 allocation for 30th anniversary party
Suggestions about board vacancy - should we appoint a new member, or keep the seat vacant? If we appoint a member, should we select based on last Spring's election results?
Satisfaction/Dissatisfaction with the website
Suggestions regarding the printed Spotlight
Suggestions regarding the online Spotlight
Satisfaction/Dissatisfaction with board leadership
Electronic voting versus mail in ballots - mailed ballots to those without an e-mail address
You also can comment on this blog.
The board has a general idea about your feelings regarding the option to subscribe to the mailed Spotlight but your e-mails were not circulated to the board. So if you want us to know the specifics of what you think, please send your opinions to all of the board members.
I am committed to answering every single one of your e-mails. I care about what you think and will take your ideas into consideration.
$30,000 allocation for 30th anniversary party
Suggestions about board vacancy - should we appoint a new member, or keep the seat vacant? If we appoint a member, should we select based on last Spring's election results?
Satisfaction/Dissatisfaction with the website
Suggestions regarding the printed Spotlight
Suggestions regarding the online Spotlight
Satisfaction/Dissatisfaction with board leadership
Electronic voting versus mail in ballots - mailed ballots to those without an e-mail address
You also can comment on this blog.
The board has a general idea about your feelings regarding the option to subscribe to the mailed Spotlight but your e-mails were not circulated to the board. So if you want us to know the specifics of what you think, please send your opinions to all of the board members.
I am committed to answering every single one of your e-mails. I care about what you think and will take your ideas into consideration.
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
Board Meeting - Saturday, January 9
The next scheduled Saints Board of Directors meeting will be held at the Saints Office, Room 203, at the Athenaeum, 2936 N. Southport, on Saturday, January 9 at 10 am. Members who wish to attend may contact the Board at large and make arrangements. It is recommended that you send your request to the entire board since we currently are without official leadership. In addition, our current Bylaws do not address leadership succession.
Minutes from the October and November meetings are now available online if you log onto the website and look at "Membership Documents."
Please review previous postings regarding the $30,000 that has been allocated for a Saints 30th anniversary party. There is controversy as to whether this is an appropriate use of funds for a nonprofit organization or consistent with our mission statement.
This issue will be addressed at the board meeting, as well as a report regarding the annual Saints benefit, which was held on Sunday, December 6.
It is important that all requests and concerns be addressed to the entire board of directors right now. Unfortunately, there is no easy way to send something without logging into the website. Two of us, Jim Venskus and Deborah Granite, are not included on the contact list that is available on the home page.
You may, however, log onto the website, click on "committees," select "board of directors," click on the button that says "view members" and select "Send Email to members." Your e-mail address will automatically appear, you can type in a subject in the blank subject line, and then type your text in the empty box. You even have the option to mark your e-mail "urgent".
Good luck!
We hope to hear from you.
Minutes from the October and November meetings are now available online if you log onto the website and look at "Membership Documents."
Please review previous postings regarding the $30,000 that has been allocated for a Saints 30th anniversary party. There is controversy as to whether this is an appropriate use of funds for a nonprofit organization or consistent with our mission statement.
This issue will be addressed at the board meeting, as well as a report regarding the annual Saints benefit, which was held on Sunday, December 6.
It is important that all requests and concerns be addressed to the entire board of directors right now. Unfortunately, there is no easy way to send something without logging into the website. Two of us, Jim Venskus and Deborah Granite, are not included on the contact list that is available on the home page.
You may, however, log onto the website, click on "committees," select "board of directors," click on the button that says "view members" and select "Send Email to members." Your e-mail address will automatically appear, you can type in a subject in the blank subject line, and then type your text in the empty box. You even have the option to mark your e-mail "urgent".
Good luck!
We hope to hear from you.
Thursday, December 10, 2009
No Blog Posts...
Out of respect to the family of BJ Nelson, and those of us who are mourning his loss, there will be no messages on this blog until next week. For updates regarding funeral arrangements, tributes or donations in his memory, please contact The Saints at their official address or go to the website.
Thank you.
Thank you.
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
$30,000 for a 30th Anniversary Party?
There is a line item in the budget (and in the budget summary on page 33 of the December Spotlight) that I must bring to your attention. There is an allocation of $30,000 for a 30th anniversary party. Using the figure of 2,000 members (estimated membership), that means that $15 from each member’s dues will be used for this celebration.
At our last board meeting, I made a motion that the amount allocated for the 30th anniversary party be “cost neutral.” By this, I meant that we should not allocate an amount that is greater than the revenue we expect to take in (sale of tickets). The motion was defeated with three in favor and five against my motion. Lorraine Edelstein, Jim Venskus and I voted in favor of the motion.
It is highly unusual to pass a budget that is unbalanced and shows a deficit of $25,811.49. We do have enough money in our reserves to cover the allocation but to budget this kind of money during a recession, and after the benefit committee worked so hard to supplement the $40,000 allocated to grants, seems inappropriate.
Even the highly controversial 2009 bylaws state the following as our mission: The Saints shall support performing arts organizations, primarily not-for-profit, in Chicago and nearby communities through volunteer and charitable services.
A 30th Anniversary Committee is already in place and the budget was approved during the months I was banned from the Saints.
How do you feel about this kind of expenditure or budgeting?
It is very important that you send e-mails letting the board know what you think about this before money is spent. Please note that e-mails sent to the President are not automatically shared with the entire board of directors.
At our last board meeting, I made a motion that the amount allocated for the 30th anniversary party be “cost neutral.” By this, I meant that we should not allocate an amount that is greater than the revenue we expect to take in (sale of tickets). The motion was defeated with three in favor and five against my motion. Lorraine Edelstein, Jim Venskus and I voted in favor of the motion.
It is highly unusual to pass a budget that is unbalanced and shows a deficit of $25,811.49. We do have enough money in our reserves to cover the allocation but to budget this kind of money during a recession, and after the benefit committee worked so hard to supplement the $40,000 allocated to grants, seems inappropriate.
Even the highly controversial 2009 bylaws state the following as our mission: The Saints shall support performing arts organizations, primarily not-for-profit, in Chicago and nearby communities through volunteer and charitable services.
A 30th Anniversary Committee is already in place and the budget was approved during the months I was banned from the Saints.
How do you feel about this kind of expenditure or budgeting?
It is very important that you send e-mails letting the board know what you think about this before money is spent. Please note that e-mails sent to the President are not automatically shared with the entire board of directors.
Monday, December 7, 2009
Budget Summary in Spotlight - Update
At the board meeting held on Saturday, December 5, 2009, I made a motion that the unedited budget, rather than a summary, be published in the Spotlight. As I wrote on December 1 (see below), members need to see the line items to fully understand how their dues are being spent.
The motion was defeated 4-3. Two members abstained.
The motion was defeated 4-3. Two members abstained.
Sunday, December 6, 2009
Quick Thoughts About Saints' Annual Party
Today, about 130 Saints gathered to socialize at Galleria Marchetti and participate in the Saints' Annual Party and Fund Raiser. The co-chairs, Bob Korabik and Laurie Nagatomo deserve credit for doing a wonderful job.
Although there probably are many different ideas about how a fundraiser like this should be run, the space was appealing, parking was abundant (and could be found for free), the entertainment was fun, and there were over 150 donations from local performing arts groups, restaurants, etc. There also was a silent auction where many of our members both provided and bid on prizes that ranged from legal services, and sailboat cruises to beautiful and interesting books.
While one can think of things that might have been different, we learn each year from our successes and failures, and it was obvious that there had been much care and thought put into today's event.
It's too soon to know how much money was raised but this year, the drawing of raffle tickets and awarding of prizes was handled much better than the past two years. We all could see the tickets being drawn, put with an envelope (it sounded like the donors' and their prizes were filed in alphabetical order), hear the name of who won, and what they won, It took awhile but it was fun to see what fellow saints had won, and hear who the generous donors were.
Imagine how much more successful we could be next year if every single Saint purchases at least one raffle ticket for $5 and finds one donor. WOW. Let's keep that in mind at our next benefit, and make a point of thanking the Benefit Committee (Barbara Burdiak, Roberta Chapman, Helen Corman, Lorraine Edelstein, Ann Gunn, Neil and Leila Handelman, Krys Lordahl, Sandra Posner, Myles Rothstein, and the Co-chairs - Bob Korabik and Laurie Nagatoma for the hours they must have spent to make this day a success.
As soon as the totals are tallied, we hope that you will post a comment stating how much money was raised today.
Although there probably are many different ideas about how a fundraiser like this should be run, the space was appealing, parking was abundant (and could be found for free), the entertainment was fun, and there were over 150 donations from local performing arts groups, restaurants, etc. There also was a silent auction where many of our members both provided and bid on prizes that ranged from legal services, and sailboat cruises to beautiful and interesting books.
While one can think of things that might have been different, we learn each year from our successes and failures, and it was obvious that there had been much care and thought put into today's event.
It's too soon to know how much money was raised but this year, the drawing of raffle tickets and awarding of prizes was handled much better than the past two years. We all could see the tickets being drawn, put with an envelope (it sounded like the donors' and their prizes were filed in alphabetical order), hear the name of who won, and what they won, It took awhile but it was fun to see what fellow saints had won, and hear who the generous donors were.
Imagine how much more successful we could be next year if every single Saint purchases at least one raffle ticket for $5 and finds one donor. WOW. Let's keep that in mind at our next benefit, and make a point of thanking the Benefit Committee (Barbara Burdiak, Roberta Chapman, Helen Corman, Lorraine Edelstein, Ann Gunn, Neil and Leila Handelman, Krys Lordahl, Sandra Posner, Myles Rothstein, and the Co-chairs - Bob Korabik and Laurie Nagatoma for the hours they must have spent to make this day a success.
As soon as the totals are tallied, we hope that you will post a comment stating how much money was raised today.
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
Budget Summary Posted in Spotlight
In the December Spotlight, you will see a budget summary on page 33. While it is a step in the right direction, it does not provide the details which are necessary to fully understand how our dues and donations are spent. From this summary, members cannot see the line items and how much is allocated for each one of them.
For example, if the line items were there, you would be able to see how much it costs to print, layout, and mail the newsletter. You would also learn that "office expenses" includes six separate line items. You would be able to see what portion of membership expenses is allocated for badges. And you would know how much we pay for rent.
The board agreed to publish the budget, and not a summary of the budget. It is a "beginning" though. Even though the information is limited, it will help you to raise the questions that need to be asked.
I strongly advise you to ask questions of the Saints board now, before additional expenses are incurred. And please, make sure that you send your questions and comments to the entire board of directors. All board members are fiduciaries, not just the Treasurer or the other officers. You have paid dues and in some cases, made donations, and the board is accountable to all of you.
The next board meeting is on Saturday, December 5, 2009. Contact the president, BJ Nelson, if you wish to attend as an observer.
For example, if the line items were there, you would be able to see how much it costs to print, layout, and mail the newsletter. You would also learn that "office expenses" includes six separate line items. You would be able to see what portion of membership expenses is allocated for badges. And you would know how much we pay for rent.
The board agreed to publish the budget, and not a summary of the budget. It is a "beginning" though. Even though the information is limited, it will help you to raise the questions that need to be asked.
I strongly advise you to ask questions of the Saints board now, before additional expenses are incurred. And please, make sure that you send your questions and comments to the entire board of directors. All board members are fiduciaries, not just the Treasurer or the other officers. You have paid dues and in some cases, made donations, and the board is accountable to all of you.
The next board meeting is on Saturday, December 5, 2009. Contact the president, BJ Nelson, if you wish to attend as an observer.
Friday, November 20, 2009
Read October Minutes - Come to Party - Buy Raffle Tickets - Send E-mails to Board
If you log into the Saints' website, click on "documents" on the menu at the top and select “membership documents,” you will see a list of three items. The last item is the published minutes of the October 12, 2009 board meeting. [Right now, there is a typo that states that they are minutes from an October 9 board meeting.] The October minutes were approved at the board meeting on November 8, 2009 and posted shortly afterward. This is because of a motion that was passed at the October board meeting.
Posting of minutes will continue on a monthly basis, and I want to encourage you to read them, write e-mails to the board if you have questions, and consider attending future board meetings as an observer. You may click on the blue link to go directly to the Saints' website and check out these minutes. The best way to send e-mails to the board is to select "committees" on the menu at the top of the site, select "board of directors" and type an e-mail. Then click "send e-mail to members" and your e-mail will be sent to the entire board.
You will now be able to see how each board member voted, and in future posts, you will also see which board member made each motion. All of these things, which are generally standard, are relatively new for this board. Allowing a membership that pays dues to know what is going on with their organization has been the subject of heated debate, and even resulted in my membership being revoked.
There still is some dissatisfaction with the quality of the minutes. They currently only state motions, and how people voted, but it is a giant step forward. At least now you can ask questions and find out why people voted as they did. In addition, observers are welcome to comment on this blog and spread the word about what is happening.
At our last general membership meeting, there was a question and answer session with seven of the nine board members in attendance and available to answer the questions. Unfortunately, Linda Berg (Treasurer) and Andy Lingras (Secretary), who are the board members to whom most of the questions were directed, were not in attendance. Hopefully, they will be at future question and answer sessions.
With the posting of the minutes, you will be able to make more informed choices when voting for candidates and deciding who you want to have representing you on the board. There are members working hard on revised bylaws, and a new grant committee that is just getting started. Involvement from the membership is greater than ever, and that is another step in the right direction.
There also has been a request from the Saints president for people to express their thoughts about the printed Spotlight and whether or not it should be continued. This will be a topic at a future board meeting, so you might want to ask to observe. Space is limited but you can always offer to bring a folding chair or ask that they find a larger space. Many of you have taken the time to respond, and have raised some of the peripheral issues that affect this decision. Some of these include looking further at the website, competitive bidding, layout, and more.
There is additional good news. There will be general membership meetings in January and February. Previously, there was going to be a five month hiatus. There will be a question and answer period at these meetings, so think about what you want to know more about.
Spread the word and check this blog frequently. Leave comments. It is unfortunate that we don’t have a forum on the official Saints website where we could communicate with each other and keep it for members only. There is such an option on our current site but as of now, the board has not voted to activate it. In fact, there are many features on our current website that we have not fully utilized. Hopefully, this will also change.
Once again, I want to encourage people to buy raffle tickets and support our grants program. In addition, you can relax and have a good time on Sunday, December 6, at the annual Saints Holiday Party. The party is an opportunity to socialize with other Saints members, talk freely about theater, share your ideas, bid at the auction and hopefully win prizes. You do not have to be at the event to win raffle prizes so don’t let a conflict keep you from buying lots of raffle tickets. Close to a hundred people have already signed up for the party and it sounds like it will be a fun time.
Posting of minutes will continue on a monthly basis, and I want to encourage you to read them, write e-mails to the board if you have questions, and consider attending future board meetings as an observer. You may click on the blue link to go directly to the Saints' website and check out these minutes. The best way to send e-mails to the board is to select "committees" on the menu at the top of the site, select "board of directors" and type an e-mail. Then click "send e-mail to members" and your e-mail will be sent to the entire board.
You will now be able to see how each board member voted, and in future posts, you will also see which board member made each motion. All of these things, which are generally standard, are relatively new for this board. Allowing a membership that pays dues to know what is going on with their organization has been the subject of heated debate, and even resulted in my membership being revoked.
There still is some dissatisfaction with the quality of the minutes. They currently only state motions, and how people voted, but it is a giant step forward. At least now you can ask questions and find out why people voted as they did. In addition, observers are welcome to comment on this blog and spread the word about what is happening.
At our last general membership meeting, there was a question and answer session with seven of the nine board members in attendance and available to answer the questions. Unfortunately, Linda Berg (Treasurer) and Andy Lingras (Secretary), who are the board members to whom most of the questions were directed, were not in attendance. Hopefully, they will be at future question and answer sessions.
With the posting of the minutes, you will be able to make more informed choices when voting for candidates and deciding who you want to have representing you on the board. There are members working hard on revised bylaws, and a new grant committee that is just getting started. Involvement from the membership is greater than ever, and that is another step in the right direction.
There also has been a request from the Saints president for people to express their thoughts about the printed Spotlight and whether or not it should be continued. This will be a topic at a future board meeting, so you might want to ask to observe. Space is limited but you can always offer to bring a folding chair or ask that they find a larger space. Many of you have taken the time to respond, and have raised some of the peripheral issues that affect this decision. Some of these include looking further at the website, competitive bidding, layout, and more.
There is additional good news. There will be general membership meetings in January and February. Previously, there was going to be a five month hiatus. There will be a question and answer period at these meetings, so think about what you want to know more about.
Spread the word and check this blog frequently. Leave comments. It is unfortunate that we don’t have a forum on the official Saints website where we could communicate with each other and keep it for members only. There is such an option on our current site but as of now, the board has not voted to activate it. In fact, there are many features on our current website that we have not fully utilized. Hopefully, this will also change.
Once again, I want to encourage people to buy raffle tickets and support our grants program. In addition, you can relax and have a good time on Sunday, December 6, at the annual Saints Holiday Party. The party is an opportunity to socialize with other Saints members, talk freely about theater, share your ideas, bid at the auction and hopefully win prizes. You do not have to be at the event to win raffle prizes so don’t let a conflict keep you from buying lots of raffle tickets. Close to a hundred people have already signed up for the party and it sounds like it will be a fun time.
Monday, November 9, 2009
Support the Saints Benefit
There is a lot of controversy going on within the Saints but we must not forget our commitment to serve the performing arts community. This year, performing arts organizations are finding it more challenging than ever to raise money and find grant sources. No matter where you stand in regard to recent controversies within the organization, the benefit deserves our full support.
The net revenue raised at this year's benefit will be added to the funds that have already been budgeted for grants this year. If you have another commitment and cannot attend the benefit, buy some raffle tickets, or bid on auction items. In addition, you can help by soliciting merchandise and gift certificates from local merchants and restaurants. Ask them to help you support our annual fundraising activities. If you provide additional items that can be raffled, more money will be raised, and there will be more prizes.
The Saints is about supporting the performing arts community through ushering and volunteer activities. In addition, we proudly award grants to deserving organizations. It is important that we stand together and make this the most successful benefit ever.
Don't forget how much the performing arts community has done for you, and all the great performances that you have attended over the past year. To sign up for the Saints benefit, read about last year's grants, or print out raffle tickets, go to the Saints' website by clicking on the blue link.
The net revenue raised at this year's benefit will be added to the funds that have already been budgeted for grants this year. If you have another commitment and cannot attend the benefit, buy some raffle tickets, or bid on auction items. In addition, you can help by soliciting merchandise and gift certificates from local merchants and restaurants. Ask them to help you support our annual fundraising activities. If you provide additional items that can be raffled, more money will be raised, and there will be more prizes.
The Saints is about supporting the performing arts community through ushering and volunteer activities. In addition, we proudly award grants to deserving organizations. It is important that we stand together and make this the most successful benefit ever.
Don't forget how much the performing arts community has done for you, and all the great performances that you have attended over the past year. To sign up for the Saints benefit, read about last year's grants, or print out raffle tickets, go to the Saints' website by clicking on the blue link.
Saturday, November 7, 2009
Reminder: Board Meeting - 11/8/09
There will be a board meeting tomorrow at the Atheneum, Saints Office, at 12:30 pm. It is requested that observers send an e-mail to the President prior to attending. There has still been no agenda distributed to the board members.
This site will continue to be available for comments from observers, board members, or members who have questions or concerns.
Recently, a motion was passed that approved minutes will be posted for member viewing on the Saints website five business days after they are approved. This means that if the minutes are approved at the meeting tomorrow, you should be able to view the minutes of the October meeting on November 13.
Preliminary review of the October minutes indicates that only motions and "decisions" made by the board are included - extensive discussions or concerns are not even referenced. You may need to continue coming to this blog or attending board meetings to know what is truly going on.
We have made progress but we have a long way to go before information is as accessible and complete as it needs to be.
It is time to start thinking about the next election and finding qualified candidates who are willing to speak up.
Stay tuned...
This site will continue to be available for comments from observers, board members, or members who have questions or concerns.
Recently, a motion was passed that approved minutes will be posted for member viewing on the Saints website five business days after they are approved. This means that if the minutes are approved at the meeting tomorrow, you should be able to view the minutes of the October meeting on November 13.
Preliminary review of the October minutes indicates that only motions and "decisions" made by the board are included - extensive discussions or concerns are not even referenced. You may need to continue coming to this blog or attending board meetings to know what is truly going on.
We have made progress but we have a long way to go before information is as accessible and complete as it needs to be.
It is time to start thinking about the next election and finding qualified candidates who are willing to speak up.
Stay tuned...
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
One More Step!!!
Last night’s meeting at Victory Gardens (Biograph), was a great success. Our speaker, Mike Nussbaum, answered questions and was a very engaging speaker. He spoke with us before appearing two blocks down the street at City Lit’s 30th anniversary celebration at the Greenhouse. Mr. Nussbaum was candid, and as usual, the membership asked very good questions. It was a busy night at the Biograph, with the League of Chicago Theatres holding their annual meeting upstairs, and the Saints holding a general membership meeting downstairs. For a Monday Night, theatre had a very active presence on Lincoln Avenue.
After the presentation, seven of the nine board members were called to the stage for a planned question and answer session. Two of the three officers, Linda Berg (Treasurer) and Andy Lingras (Secretary) were not present. Many of the questions were for the absent officers, however a number of questions were directed to the President, BJ Nelson. He and other board members did their best to respond, and hopefully, the unasked and unanswered questions will be answered in the Spotlight, and at future membership meetings.
The next scheduled meeting is March 22, which is five months from now. Perhaps we will have another general membership meeting before that time. Over 125 members attended the meeting, and most of the members stayed until the end of the question and answer period.
Members were encouraged to write their questions on an index card, write down who the question was for, and sign their own name. This worked pretty well, and hopefully will get smoother with practice. It was a challenge when people who hadn't written questions wanted to interject their own opinions, which were very valuable, but also used some of the limited time that had been allocated for board members to respond to questions. It also was most unfortunate that two of the officers, who many of the questions were for, did not attend the meeting.
The audience interaction was very valuable, and as a board member, it was helpful to hear the opinions of our membership. There were some excellent suggestions, and many points of view. We need to work on ways to encourage interaction between members, stay focused, and also make sure that board members get a chance to thoroughly answer questions. If this becomes a regular part of our general membership meetings, some of the questions could be sent in advance so that Board members are better prepared and able to respond. On the other hand, there is value in spontaneous discussion.
Questions that were asked included the following (these are from memory and are neither comprehensive nor the exact words of those who asked the questions):
Are dues that are paid tax deductible for the amount that exceeds operating expenses of the Saints?
Can the website be improved so that it is easier to sign up, calendars are posted, and the site is more user friendly?
Will the printed Spotlight be made available on a subscription basis next year?
Why was there a decision not to record how individual board members voted?
Is it necessary to bring a flashlight to all venues?
What is the criteria the President uses to appoint board members?
What is the rationale behind discussions about changing our 501(c)3 status or modifying the structure of the Saints?
Hopefully, the Spotlight/Saints Website will provide answers to these and other questions.
A commitment was made by the webmaster, Martin Frank, to post links on the Saints website to enable members to access sign up information on calendars that some of the coordinators maintain. Currently, six of the coordinators maintain such calendars. There was animated discussion about the printed Spotlight and the shortcomings of the current website. There is much knowledge in our organization, and we have just started to tap into all the skills that our members have.
The meeting was adjourned and people signed up for new offerings. Members were observed conversing and continuing some of the conversations that had started during the question and answer period. Others were signing up and interacting with coordinators - in some cases meeting them for the first time. It was a successful evening.
Feel free to post comments on this site, or send your opinions to the Saints Board of Directors. It is always more effective to state your name when making suggestions, asking questions, or voicing an opinion. Please keep the dialog going.
After the presentation, seven of the nine board members were called to the stage for a planned question and answer session. Two of the three officers, Linda Berg (Treasurer) and Andy Lingras (Secretary) were not present. Many of the questions were for the absent officers, however a number of questions were directed to the President, BJ Nelson. He and other board members did their best to respond, and hopefully, the unasked and unanswered questions will be answered in the Spotlight, and at future membership meetings.
The next scheduled meeting is March 22, which is five months from now. Perhaps we will have another general membership meeting before that time. Over 125 members attended the meeting, and most of the members stayed until the end of the question and answer period.
Members were encouraged to write their questions on an index card, write down who the question was for, and sign their own name. This worked pretty well, and hopefully will get smoother with practice. It was a challenge when people who hadn't written questions wanted to interject their own opinions, which were very valuable, but also used some of the limited time that had been allocated for board members to respond to questions. It also was most unfortunate that two of the officers, who many of the questions were for, did not attend the meeting.
The audience interaction was very valuable, and as a board member, it was helpful to hear the opinions of our membership. There were some excellent suggestions, and many points of view. We need to work on ways to encourage interaction between members, stay focused, and also make sure that board members get a chance to thoroughly answer questions. If this becomes a regular part of our general membership meetings, some of the questions could be sent in advance so that Board members are better prepared and able to respond. On the other hand, there is value in spontaneous discussion.
Questions that were asked included the following (these are from memory and are neither comprehensive nor the exact words of those who asked the questions):
Are dues that are paid tax deductible for the amount that exceeds operating expenses of the Saints?
Can the website be improved so that it is easier to sign up, calendars are posted, and the site is more user friendly?
Will the printed Spotlight be made available on a subscription basis next year?
Why was there a decision not to record how individual board members voted?
Is it necessary to bring a flashlight to all venues?
What is the criteria the President uses to appoint board members?
What is the rationale behind discussions about changing our 501(c)3 status or modifying the structure of the Saints?
Hopefully, the Spotlight/Saints Website will provide answers to these and other questions.
A commitment was made by the webmaster, Martin Frank, to post links on the Saints website to enable members to access sign up information on calendars that some of the coordinators maintain. Currently, six of the coordinators maintain such calendars. There was animated discussion about the printed Spotlight and the shortcomings of the current website. There is much knowledge in our organization, and we have just started to tap into all the skills that our members have.
The meeting was adjourned and people signed up for new offerings. Members were observed conversing and continuing some of the conversations that had started during the question and answer period. Others were signing up and interacting with coordinators - in some cases meeting them for the first time. It was a successful evening.
Feel free to post comments on this site, or send your opinions to the Saints Board of Directors. It is always more effective to state your name when making suggestions, asking questions, or voicing an opinion. Please keep the dialog going.
Thursday, October 22, 2009
General Membership Meeting
Come to the Saints General Membership Meeting this Monday, October 26, at the Victory Gardens Biograph Theater, 2433 North Lincoln Avenue, in Chicago. The guest speaker will be Mike Nussbaum.
Important information: Mr Nussbaum will begin speaking promptly at 6:30 pm and will be leaving at 7:15 for another commitment so it might be a good idea to arrive early. The Saints newsletter has a different time indicated so, please make note of this time change, and help spread the word to fellow members.
Following the presentation, there will be time for a short business meeting, which will include a question and answer session. Bring your questions with you.
After the question and answer period (approximately 8:15), the meeting will adjourn to the lobby for signups with coordinators. Remember to wear your Saints badge, and bring along your calendars to facilitate signing up.
Already, we have quite a few ushering opportunities that have not been previously made available. These opportunities will not be available to those who do not attend the meeting until November 1, when the Spotlight is posted and/or received in the mail. There will be no coordinators taking sign ups, however, until the business meeting has adjourned.
The meeting will have an announced end time and will not last more than forty-five minutes. It is your chance to ask questions of the board and learn more about the organization. Be sure to attend because this is the last scheduled general membership meeting until March 2010.
Important information: Mr Nussbaum will begin speaking promptly at 6:30 pm and will be leaving at 7:15 for another commitment so it might be a good idea to arrive early. The Saints newsletter has a different time indicated so, please make note of this time change, and help spread the word to fellow members.
Following the presentation, there will be time for a short business meeting, which will include a question and answer session. Bring your questions with you.
After the question and answer period (approximately 8:15), the meeting will adjourn to the lobby for signups with coordinators. Remember to wear your Saints badge, and bring along your calendars to facilitate signing up.
Already, we have quite a few ushering opportunities that have not been previously made available. These opportunities will not be available to those who do not attend the meeting until November 1, when the Spotlight is posted and/or received in the mail. There will be no coordinators taking sign ups, however, until the business meeting has adjourned.
The meeting will have an announced end time and will not last more than forty-five minutes. It is your chance to ask questions of the board and learn more about the organization. Be sure to attend because this is the last scheduled general membership meeting until March 2010.
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