2002 Meeting Archives

Q102 Board Meeting Dates

Q302 Board Meeting Dates

Q202 Board Meeting Dates

Q402 Board Meeting Dates

 14 January 2002

Agenda:
  1. Roll Call
  2. Approval of 12-10-01 minutes
  3. Treasurers report
  4. Newsletter transition...how is it going and can any of us help Jim out
  5. Amdamembers discussions...any comments or suggestions
  6. Discuss my list of proposed programs that went out to IRS for us to work on in 2002...AND need to get our members involved. 
    Go to my 12-26 email to review the description of each of these.
    1. Support for MAC and their programs
    2. Platinum Program...need to start committee work again
    3. Ecolabeling program
    4. Green Label Program (name itself is one of the issues)
    5. Retail Store Husbandry Manual
    6. Monitor hobbyists on-line discussion groups...can we add a new board member (and although Mary is already
      very active on this, I don't think it is something she should do...we could use some new blood here)
    7. Education programs (speaker network and high school tie in with stores)
    8. Ornamental Marine Species Data Sheets
    9. Start-up Videos for stores
    10. Inappropriate Species for Sale List ( I know this sounds redundant in 
      regard to what MAC is working on, but we should have our own SHORT list for our stores.

      The idea is that once we look these programs over and decide a plan of attack and on time frames, I want to post an
      announcement seeking participation from our members to help serve on these committees.

  7. Dave Vosseler from MAC will answer any questions and give us some ideas on how AMDA and MAC can work closer and how
    we should put a statement of support for MAC out to our members
  8. Open Forum

Minutes:

Meeting called to order at 9:10 pm EDT.  

  1. Roll call:  BOD members present: Randy, Liz, Mark, Mary, Rick, Steve Ruddy, Steven Pro.
  2. Minutes:  All present approve meeting minutes from December 10 board meeting.
  3. Treasurer's report:  Liz reports $746.08 previous balance, $ 262.00 income, $ 32.23 in expenses, and a current balance of $ 975.85. Mary motions to wait 2 weeks, then vote on printing of 4th quarter ‘01 newsletter. All approve. Randy asks for a revote on billing for membership renewals in January of each year. All approve
  4. David Vosseler of MAC now joins the meeting and thanks AMDA for allowing him to take part in the BOD meeting. Dave states he is here to answer questions and present a window of opportunity for AMDA to partner/work with MAC to help get industry certified. Randy gives Steven Pro first question as he posted these first on agenda comments.
    1. Steven Pro asks Dave where the 1% mortality figure came from and what effect will it have on MAC certified fish actually reaching the market?
      Dave replies:  First, the 1% DOA and 1% DAA by specie, at each link of the chain, only pertains to MAC certified organisms. Data has been collected from the industry. The data published so far has helped the industry by giving actual catch/import figures by specie, which have been far lower than previously thought.
    2. Mary asks if the reason for the lower figures is because not everyone has contributed?
      Dave replies: the total quantity was not the issue, it was the relative amount, although in the case of Fiji, it was total volume. The species mix was also useful information.
    3. Randy asks how did it compare to food fisheries data for Fiji?
      Dave did not have that information, but stated it would be a good case study including value per kilo caught.
    4. Randy asks Dave to explain to the board, who involved with MAC, if any, might have it in for our industry and may want it shut down.
      Dave states that no one at MAC, or on MAC’s board, wants to shut down this industry. The environmental NGO’s on the board want desperately for MAC and this industry to succeed.
    5. Many more questions regarding the 1% from Steven Pro, Mary, and Tim; Dave states MAC has a paper on the website that explains how they came to using the 1% figure.  Dave also welcomes any and all who may have further questions to call him personally.
    6. Dave explains that MAC wants a very small unsuitable species list, to be developed by a high level technical committee. Aquaculture standards to start development process in second quarter or so this year. MAC would like to see AMDA members on this committee. Steven Pro states people would be more comfortable with an unsuitable list if the protocol to remove fish from the list was established first. Dave replies that part of the committees writ would be to design and manage the processed for putting organisms on and off the list, as well as issuing permits for research. AMDA will be notified when the application process begins.
    7. Tim asks if the 1% - 8% DOA can be modified later. Mary states she would like to see those numbers start higher, and then work down. She feels this would be better than to start low, fail, and then have to raise the percentages. Dave states that the current numbers are part of the standards for now. If we went to 4% DOA/DAA allowed at each link of the chain, we would have a mortality rate around 16%; this is what the industry can get now; so where’s the improvement? The low mortality figures set will benefit the retailers the most since they are at the end of the market chain and have the least amount of control over what they get. MAC needed to set a figure that they thought was reachable and also defensible.
    8. Mary asks about mortalities on Philippine and Indo fish.
      Dave states that Philippine exporters are getting shipments of fish right now from trained collectors with most species reaching less than 1%. Dave states this whole process will not be easy, but MAC is working very hard at the most difficult links of the chain, the collectors and exporters, to try and make this happen. Mary points out that most of the mortalities are between exporter and retailer. Dave adds that any by specie batch of organisms that goes above the mortality allowance can still be sold just not as MAC certified; and retailers are not required to record mortality figures after 28 days.
    9. Mary states that when paying higher prices for MAC certified fish, you lose money when they become uncertified.
    10. Dave states that the standards are definitely a work in progress.  In 2 years, MAC will publish the final set of standards. MAC will use the next 2 years to trail every aspect of the standards. Randy adds that the idea here is to make the chain of custody better by closely studying each link in the chain, and making improvements where needed. Dave agrees and adds that the system is designed to allow self improvement of the participants.
    11. Steven Pro asks how MAC is going to get consumers to ask for MAC certified fish.
      Dave replies they have a number of ideas on how to reach the hobbyist, but none are very good since it is such a diverse group. This is where MAC would like to see AMDA work.
    12. Dave states that MAC would like AMDA to help get as many retailers trained and MAC certified. Liz asks if the training and certification criteria is clearly spelled out on the MAC website? Dave replies that the certification criteria is posted but nothing on training programs. MAC is looking to work with AMDA to develop national training programs and industry capacity building programs. Liz states she would like to see more communication between MAC and AMDA.
    13. As stated by Mary in her agenda comments, Randy asks for a vote to include Dave in the AMDA members message board. All approve.
    14. Randy also asks for a vote for AMDA to work with MAC in ways advantageous to both organizations in helping to set up the certification program. All approve.
    15. Randy asks Dave to meet in two weeks to start this work. Dave agrees, and offers to come visit to prepare some possible core planning.
    16. Dave does ask AMDA for a strong letter of support before starting this process. Mary asks for clarification on "strong". Dave replies they want a strong commitment to working with MAC. Not necessarily a blanket approval of MAC. Mary replies that she does not accept working with the 1% DOA/DAA. Tim and Steven Pro agree with Mary. Dave states that AMDA working with MAC will help them on researching issues such as the 1 %. Some AMDA BOD are concerned about the 1% being a requirement and being unchangeable. Dave addresses that concern, and explains that this scenario was considered. MAC cannot have standards that are subject to constant change without losing all credibility and consistency. They have left the process of change purposefully vague to allow for new conditions requiring unknown action.

      AMA BOD to work on wording of support letter to MAC.

Part 2 of this meeting set for Monday, 21 January 2002, at 9:00 pm EDT.  Meeting adjourned at 12:29 p.m. EST. Next meeting next week, same day, same time.

 21 January 2002

Agenda:
  1. Roll Call 
  2.  
  3.  
  4.  
  5.  

Minutes:

  1.  Roll Call:  
  2.  
  3.  
  4.  
  5.  
  6.  Open Forum:
    1.  
    2.  

Next meeting set for Monday, February 11, 2002, 9:00 p.m. EST.  Meeting adjourned at ________ EST.

 11 February 2002

Agenda:
  1. Roll Call
  2. Approval of 01-14-02 and 01-21-02 minutes
  3. Treasurers report:  renewal issues, other issues
  4. Newsletter:  status update from Jim on mailing of Q401, release of Q102
  5. Open meetings:  chaos or growth, occasional or always
  6. Control of amdamembers message board
  7. Guests invitations to amdamembers message board:  by invitation, by the BOD, or by vote of general membership
  8. Wholesalers issues
  9. Bylaw Updates:  status of changes, and what needs done to catch up with changes (from Mark)
  10. Open Forum

Minutes:

  1.  Roll Call:  
  2.  
  3.  
  4.  
  5.  
  6.  Open Forum:
    1.  
    2.  

Next meeting set for Monday, February 25, 2002, 9:00 p.m. EST.  Meeting adjourned at ________ EST.

  25 February 2002
Agenda:
  1. Roll Call
  2. Approval of 01-14-02 and 01-21-02 minutes
  3. Treasurers Report
    1. Renewals going out? Can we reword the letter so it doesn't sound like the feds are bugging our phones...
change 2nd sentence into something like:
      " Our industry is finally moving into real negotiations on reform. Major players in all of this are the Marine 
Aquarium Council (MAC), the US Coral Reef Task Force, certain key environmental groups such as World 
Wildlife Fund and the Nature Conservancy, AMDA and certain wholesalers and retailers who have taken the 
initial steps to move into working on the core standards.
    2. IRS update
  4. Newsletter - Jim
    1. Did we get the last one ready to go out? That was the plan
    2. Need to discuss what will go into the key one... the issue that will 
      focus totally on industry reform and where we all stand. Several board 
      members have stated that they support letters or statements from all the 
      major players on this issue. That could include the following:

      - MAC
      - USCRTF
      - Wholesalers
      - AMDA board position
      - Retailers who have chosen to get involved
      - World Wildlife Fund
      - Nature Conservancy
      - Steve Robinson - Philippines Historical Overview
       - Eric Borneman - Hobbyists take
  5. Open Meetings...are we ready to post our results
    1. People (members or not)  can attend by invite only (2/3rds majority of board decision)
    2. People invited can listen and speak when questioned or when they ask moderator to 
      be involved (still need to flesh out moderator idea)
  6. Rules for member e-board...posted reefs.org rules...are they OK?
  7. Bilaws and Lawyers take...and do we still want Mark to post an apology for being behind?
  8. Upcoming MAC meeting in LA and members comments to Mike...good feedback yet?
  9. Open Forum

Minutes:

  1.  Roll Call:  
  2.  
  3.  
  4.  
  5.  
  6.  Open Forum:
    1.  
    2.  

Next meeting set for Monday, March 18, 2002, 9:00 p.m. EST.  Meeting adjourned at ________ EST.

  18 March 2002
Agenda:
  1. Roll Call
  2. Preview whatever Mark had time to get to Toni for previous meeting minutes (either do so tonight or do so later this
    week and we can e-mail each other our comments)
  3. Treasurers report
  4. JT as new board member...lets discuss and take a vote...need to go over my concerns and my conversations with
    JT today with you guys. Once we vote, if he does get elected to Steve pro's position, we will call him to the meeting
    (Mike will do the honors)
  5. Newsletter update: Is Jim able to help here now...Liz can inkle on this (some personal stuff she can't share but she
    can at least talk about his available time). If Jim can't handle the load right now, JT says he can also do this task.
    We do need to get  the fourth quarter newsletter out ASAP, so lets discuss logistics
  6. Wholesale meeting in Los Angeles:  Mike, JT and I will give you our take on it.  I will also fill you in on Dave's and
    Paul's take on the matter and Liz also talked to Dave over the weekend and can also fill us in.
  7. I am happy to report that Paul did inform me that the committee that was formed at the original Friday meeting is
    still just getting started on
    working on a new plan for their place in the chain of custody, so this is actually a work in progress and we should
    expect it to go for several weeks before a final product does emerge for a more public scrutiny.
  8. Open forum

Minutes:

  1.  Roll Call:  
  2.  
  3.  
  4.  
  5.  
  6.  
  7.  
  8.  Open Forum:
    1.  
    2.  

Next meeting set for Monday, April 1, 2002, 9:00 p.m. EST.  Meeting adjourned at ________ EST.

  01 April 2002
Agenda:
  1. Roll Call
  2. Minutes
  3. Treasurer Report
  4. Newsletter
  5. California Senate Bill 1357
  6. AMDA Educational List
  7. Open Forum

Minutes:

Meeting called to order at 9:10 pm EDT.  

  1. Roll call:  BOD members present: Randy, Mike, Liz, Mark, Rick, Jim, Tim, and JT.
  2. Minutes: Previous meeting minutes not available for review at this time.  Randy asks if anyone in California area can
    represent AMDA at the open hearing on the new California bill amendment in Sacramento.
  3. Treasurer's Report:  Liz reports $ 150.00 income, $ 22.60 expenses, and a balance on hand of $ 3154.14. Randy asks
    for a list of all renewals to go to Regional Directors so they can call their members. Randy asks for status on IRS. Liz
    replies that they have not contacted us yet. She will check with them after tax day, as she has to file corporate paper
    work by May 1.
  4. Newsletter Status: JT asks for any copies of old newsletters to help with the layout, etc. Liz to send those to JT. JT
    will have a printer lined up within next day.
  5. California Senate Bill 1357: AMDA will work to make sure this amendment will not adversely affect our retailers. Retailers
    may be required to supply a basic outline, or sources for care of animals sold. Randy was able to convince Beverly,
    (the bills author), to omit wholesalers from this. Randy asks all to call Beverly and express concerns and/or ideas on
    this. Her number/email is: 805-984-8200 / bevddal@msn.com. Beverly McGraph of the Doris Day Animal League. Her
    Senator, who is working on this legislation is Ed Vincent, phone # 916-445-2104. His assistant handling this bill is
    Janet Artis, phone # 916-445-2104.
  6. AMDA educational list:
    1. Ecolabeling Program (Rick):  Randy asks that we update this list every year. Rick suggests we add husbandry
      tips as well. Rick also asks JT to put a request in the newsletter for AMDA members to review the list and
      comment. Rick will put that request on the members message board as well.
    2. Green Label Program (changed name, but can’t recall):  Tim states that we have a captive-bred livestock directory
      on our website. Randy will review and report next meeting.
    3. Retail Store Husbandry (Randy and ?):  Randy suggests we save this for summer schedule.
    4. Speaker Network (all help):  Tim volunteers to work on this. He will put together a list of names and contact
      information to make available to our members. JT suggests we also work with local clubs to attract speakers.
      Tim asks that we keep this speaker information on a members only section in the website, perhaps accessible
      by password. Speakers may not want info to be "too accessible"
    5. Education in Schools (Mark): Mark has suggested that stores work with local teachers and provide some animals
      and/or staff to do presentations at schools. Randy volunteers to help with this.
    6. Ornamental Marine Species List. (Mike and Randy):  Mike has started both (6) and (7) with CORL, and has offered
      to let AMDA work with these tools as well. Randy will work with Mike on these. Randy asks for some examples
      of the OMSDS. We will look into funding for the video production.
    7. Start up videos for new hobbyists. Give to stores to distribute. (Mike and Randy)
    8. Inappropriate Species List. (Randy and ?):  Randy states we need to work out husbandry techniques for difficult
      species, and the list should only include dangerous animals (toxic), and those that grow too large. Tim states
      that we should have this on our ecolist, he feels we should not label anything as being completely inappropriate.
      Tim suggests that we add a category 6) to our ecolist: those species that are deadly or grow too large. All present
      agree with Tim. Randy will work on the list for next meeting.
  7. Open Forum:
    1. JT asks about AMDA representation at the Backer Show in Atlantic City. He plans to attend and offers to take
      AMDA brochures. Liz to send him some. JT suggests we start having a better presence at the big shows that are for the retailers.
    2. Liz asks about the AMDA members message board rules. We had started on this and need to get some rules posted.
    3. Tim asks if any BOD will be attending the WWPSA, and if we can ask for help to man the booth in the newsletter.
      Will discuss further next meeting.
    4. Rick suggests we offer a lecture on responsible marine retailing by John Tullock in exchange for a booth. He has
      already discussed this with John T. All present approve.  Rick asks that we provide travel, meals and lodging for Mr. Tullock.

Next meeting set for Monday, April 22, 2002, at 9:00 pm EDT.   Meeting adjourned at 11:45 pm EDT.
  22 April 2002
Agenda:
  1. Roll Call
  2. Approval of previous Minutes
  3. Status of Web Site (are Steve and Toni now settled in yet?)
  4. Treasurers report: and any word on IRS
  5. Newsletter: did JT keep looking for good price on getting issue out and
    if so, what is schedule.
  6. Go over Education goals we were all to work on
  7. John Clausen's new grant to work with MAC to find ways of making chain of custody work
  8. Pet Bill in CA...the latest
  9. Open Forum

Minutes:

Meeting called to order at 9:09 pm EDT.  

  1. Roll call:  BOD members present: Randy, Liz, Mark, Tim, and JT
  2. Minutes:  Previous meeting minutes not available for review at this time
  3. Website update:  Steve and Toni almost into new location; website updates up and running later this week.
  4. Treasurer's report:  Liz reports income of $ 550.00, expenses of 456.55, and balance on hand of $ 3197.59. 
    Tim reports making several calls to members for renewal. He has left messages for most and reports Belizean
    Reef has renewed and Ecovitality went out of business. 44 members have paid their 2002 dues, and 39 members
    are unpaid. Liz also reports that we have not heard from the IRS yet.  Randy asks all Regional Directors to check
    their updated member lists and make calls to those who have not paid their dues.
  5. Newsletter:  We still need to finish getting the last quarter newsletter for 2001 done and off to a printer.
  6. Randy reports that John Clausen has been working to help MAC with how the chain of custody should be configured
    to work best. John feels the best case scenario is to have the importers have more control of the collectors and
    shippers. The idea is that if you are paying your own divers and shippers, you have more control over what they do.
    Randy asks if BOD would like to invite John to speak at a meeting. All present say yes. Randy states that John would
    like to express his ideas to us and give him some feedback.
  7. Pet Bill:  Randy asks if all have seen the sample form he posted. Liz asks for example, would we have to identify and
    list all the animals found in a pound of live sand? Tim suggests people sign some sort of waiver for stores to keep on file.
    Randy to check with PIJAC on this issue.

Next meeting set for Monday, 13 May 2002, at 9:00 pm EDT.   Meeting adjourned at 11:03 pm EDT.

13 May 2002
Agenda:
  1. Roll Call
  2. Approval of Minutes
  3. Treasurers report
  4. Newsletter...JT or Jim or both...let's get that last quarter issue
    to the publishers (Toni sent you both instructions for contacting them so
    lets roll on this
  5. Education Programs...here is the promised list and those who said they would work on the issues..
    1. Ecolabeling Program - Rick to chair. Add inappropriate species list as recommended "do not sell" list to end of this list
    2. Mariculture List - Randy to chair. I will work on this when I get back to Pittsburgh
    3. Retail Store Husbandry Manual - tabled till this summer
    4. Speaker Network - Tim to Chair...need to work out if we can put list up for members only use
    5. High Schools utilizing stores as educational assets - Mark to chair
    6. Ornamental Marine Species  List - Fact sheets on species - Mike to chair and Randy to help...waiting to get up with Mike
    7. Aquarium Start Up Video - Mike to chair, Randy to help
  6. Open forum

Minutes:

Meeting called to order at approximately 9:10 p.m. EST.

  1. Roll Call:  Board members present: Randy, Mike, Liz, Mark, Rick, Tim, Jim, Steve, and JT.
  2. Minutes:  Minutes from the two April meetings now up on BOD message board for review.
  3. Treasurer's Report:  Liz reports balance on hand as of 4/22/02 = $ 3197.59, $166.68 income, $ 45.84 in expenses, and new balance as of 5/13/02 = $ 3318.43.
  4. Newsletter:  Jim to proceed and order and print up the winter newsletter.  Jim reports we can get 250 newsletters 4 color/2fold for $ 646.38.
  5. Education Program:  Randy asks that we each work some on our tasks before we meet next. Rick states he will send a request out to amdamembers message board for help to begin updating the Eco-List. Randy will work on Mariculture list and check with Breeders Registry for updates. Randy also to post request for help on amdamembers message board. Mark to work on basic presentation outline for stores to use in schools. Liz offers to help with this as she currently has a grant proposal going on with a local middle school. Liz is working with the teacher on writing this grant, a potential 3 year deal. Ornamental Marine Species Data Sheets. (OMSDS).  Mike has 500 species in database now. This data will be posted on CORL website, and Mike asks all to contribute if possible. The Aquarium Start Up Video will be put on a temporary hold so we can complete other projects.

Next meeting set for Monday, 03 June 2002, 9:00 p.m. EST.  Meeting adjourned at 10:13 EST.

03 June 2002
Agenda:
  1. Roll Call
  2. Approval of Minutes
  3. Treasurers report
  4. Newsletter:
    1. Winter issue publication
    2. Discussion of first 2002 Newsletter:  main theme is the reform issue and
      letters of support from various groups and second biggest issue would be to
      list education programs we are upgrading or starting and also issue a call
      for help
  5. Educational Program Discussion:  where we are and how can we kick start some of these programs
  6. Open forum

Minutes:

Meeting called to order at 9:21 p.m. EST.

  1. Roll Call: BOD members present: Randy, Mike, Liz, Mark
  2. Minutes:  Mike to review minutes, Randy, Liz, and Mark approve.
  3. Treasurer's Report:  Liz reports beginning balance 5/13/02 = $ 3318.43; income of $ 250.00; expenses of $ 106.20; and balance as of 6/3/02 = $ 3462.23.  Discussion on 501 c 6 status. Randy will check in with our lawyer on this.
  4. Randy has posted a request on the members message board for help with the mariculture list, still has to work on the Breeders Registry.
  5. Mark will work on an outline for presentations that shops can use to work with schools, scouts, etc. Mike states he has someone working on his video/DVD project, and his species database is nearly done.
  6. Discussion on content next newsletter: industry reform.
  7. Some open discussion on a finding a moderator for our members’ message board.

Next meeting set for Monday, 08 July  2002, 9:00 p.m. EST.  Meeting adjourned at 10:42 p.m. EST

08 July 2002
Agenda:
  1. Roll Call
  2. Approval of last meeting minutes
  3. Treasurers report, including status of IRS application
  4. Newsletter: mailing of Q4 2001 newsletter; update on 2002 newsletter status
  5. Open spot on board, for replacement of Mike King, vice president
  6. Educational Program update
  7. Open Forum

Minutes:

Meeting called to order at 9:11 p.m. EST.

  1. Roll Call:  Board members present: Randy, Liz, Mark, Rick, Steve, Tim.
  2. Minutes:  Minutes from June 3, 2002 meeting not available for approval.
  3. Treasurer's Report:  Liz reports a 6/3/02 balance of $ 3462.23, income of $ 50.00, expenses of $ 596.84, and a balance of $ 2915.39 as of 7/8/02.  Liz also reports 34 members have not renewed as of yet. Liz reports on status with IRS: the 501 (c) (6) classification allows us tax exempt status, but does not make us a federal non-profit; although we could file for the non-profit status later to cover our educational programs. Randy points out that although this status would relieve AMDA of any tax liabilities, it may not allow donations by companies to be tax deductible. Liz agrees and suggests we check with a CPA or lawyer
  4. Newsletter:  Randy asks for suggestions/ideas for this year’s newsletter. Randy has started a list: A list of educational programs we have started, or are going to start this year. Randy also plans to compose a letter stating why we have lost some of our momentum. Liz suggests we might want to resurrect the Platinum Program. Rick states we should set a date for our annual meeting at MACNA. Mark suggests updating the sale price ads that were outdated. Liz suggests taking a members poll to find out what they would like covered in future issues.
     
  5. Open board position (vice president):  Randy asks for candidates to replace Mike as Vice-president. After much discussion on this subject, the following names were offered: Ron Shimek, Randy Donowitz, Lance Ichinotsubo, and Andrew Lee. Randy will work on contacting these people to see if they are interested.
  6. Educational projects. Randy asks that all who have volunteered to work on these projects, try to make some headway this month. Randy to contact the Breeder’s Registry to see if they will share information for the Mariculture List. Rick to work on Eco-Label project. Mark and Liz to work on school presentation project. Tim to work on Speaker list.
  7. Open Forum: Liz informs us that Backer has offered a free listing in their 2003 Sourcebook. All present vote to have Liz fill out form and take advantage of this offer.  Liz also informs us that we have a hobbyist contribution from Mexico, and asks how to handle. Randy states we should accept it, however we need to inform the donor that at this point his contribution is not tax deductible.

Next meeting set for August 12, 2002, 9:00 p.m. EST.  Meeting adjourned at 10:56 p.m. EST.

26 August 2002
Agenda:
  1. Roll Call
  2. Approval of Minutes
  3. Treasurers report
  4. Newsletter:
  5. Educational Programs
  6. Open positions
  7. Open forum

Minutes (TBA):

  1.  Roll Call:  
  2.  Minutes
  3.  Treasurer's report:
  4.  Newsletter
  5.  
  6.  
  7.  Open Forum:

09 September 2002
Agenda (Draft):
  1. Roll Call
  2. Approval of Minutes
  3. Treasurers report
  4. Newsletter
  5. Educational Programs
  6. Open positions
  7. Open forum

Minutes (TBA):

[21:06] *** Now talking in #amda

[21:06] *** Topic is '#AMDA American Marinelife Dealers Assoc. AMDA next meeting 3-18 9:00EST'

[21:06] *** Set by ChanServ on Mon Sep 16 20:54:03

[21:06] <aquadolph> Yo again Liz

[21:07] <liztmap> i'm here i think

[21:07] <Mike_workin> Hi ya Liz

[21:07] <aquadolph> The financial report looks good...coffers are brimming

[21:07] <liztmap> k so ya got it, good.

[21:09] <aquadolph> OK...lookslike we have a forum, so lets begin...the only thing officially on agenda is the annual meeting, although I do want to mention a couple of other itemns

[21:09] <aquadolph> So I will get the couple of items out of way first.

[21:10] <aquadolph> Now I am having a mind block...was Pet age the group we advertised with last fall?

[21:10] <liztmap> & fama

[21:11] <aquadolph> Well, Lori of PMS wanted to know if we wanted to get another ad in for the fall issue...thought that might not be a bad suggestion.

[21:11] <aquadolph> Maybe we should put another one in FAMA as well

[21:11] <liztmap> pet age offered a free listing in sourcebook. I jumped on free, but never followed up about paid ad.

[21:11] <aquadolph> What do you guys think?

[21:13] <aquadolph> Should we advertise AMDA this fall or not?

[21:13] <Rick_> It couldn't hurt.

[21:13] <Mike_workin> you need some kind of exposure

[21:14] <Steve-CRES> I think the only effective advertising is continuous

[21:14] * jt agrees with Steve

[21:14] <aquadolph> Well, we could do that, Steve, with at least one of these groups

[21:14] <markss> yes on that...

[21:14] <liztmap> what did they say about price?

[21:15] <aquadolph> Lori didn't discuss it, as she reached me on my cell while I was driving and I said I would bring it up at this meeting...could get prices and get back to you guys but first wanted to know if we should advertise...and I for one think any exposure is good exposure

[21:17] <aquadolph> we spent 433.50 on advertising last August and 160.69 in September and again in October...I think the latter was PMS's fee

[21:17] <liztmap> we paid over $400 to advertise w/ pms once, I think. Thanks to Steve, we got a much better deal w/ fama. We need to evaluate this

[21:17] <liztmap> nope, you have it backwards, Randy.

[21:18] <aquadolph> K...160.69 was for FAMA then

[21:18] <liztmap> yup

[21:18] <Steve-CRES> I would like to see the ad in a place everyone feels would have the best results.

[21:18] <aquadolph> agreed...FAMA was cheaper but PMS is a trade magazine and FAMA is a hobbyist magazine

[21:19] <Steve-CRES> I can't comment on the publication you mentioned Randy but will go with the majority.

[21:19] <aquadolph> So let's see what we can get for trade mag rates and revisit this issue?

[21:20] <liztmap> we need to be sure we don't run tight on funds. We need to consider newsletter costs. By far, most members are requesting snail. We need to budget for that.

[21:21] <Steve-CRES> Agree with Liz

[21:21] <aquadolph> Agreed, Liz...but we are in a pretty good spot now with the coffers full...spend some advertizing to bring in some new blood seems to be one way to spend some of it wisely

[21:21] <aquadolph> If we can budget the newsletter to stay at 500.00 max, we should be also able to get in some advertizing

[21:22] <aquadolph> Don't forget we do have renewals coming up as well

[21:22] <liztmap> get me prices from any advertising & we can see how thinly the treasure can be spread. $500 is less than we paid for last newsletter.

[21:23] <liztmap> it was closer to $600 for printing, then the postage.

[21:23] <aquadolph> OK, Liz, but with $3,800.00 in coffers, we should be able to afford two more newsletters and still have plenty left for advertising and then some

[21:24] <liztmap> lets budget for it, that's all. We may still need software for the newsletter...

[21:24] <aquadolph> OK...sounds like a plan.

[21:32] <liztmap> ?

[21:32] <aquadolph> Go Liz

[21:32] <liztmap> so what's w/ the question fm Mitch?

[21:32] <liztmap> we have several wholesalers onboard already

[21:33] <aquadolph> T I thought it was a joke relating to the former take-over attempt by the dealers last fall

[21:33] * jt echos liz. We need to start being more active in replying to questions on the board. Us taking two days to answer is crap.

[21:33] <aquadolph> Mitch I can call, for even though he took many a swing at me, we are still friends

[21:34] <liztmap> call him. just to ask.

[21:34] <aquadolph> Well, Mitch addressed the question to Mark and he asked us for advise and I sent him my 2 cents worth...but yes, on the surface, the correct answer would be that any and all are welcome to join

[21:35] <aquadolph> I will, Liz

[21:35] <aquadolph> Anyway (yawn back), lets get into the annual meeting

[21:35] <markss> good point jt, we need some one, pc-literate, and online all the time to take care of this stuff.... I nominate you.

[21:36] <jt> heh, sure mark. I might be PC-literate but not always PC. ;-)

[21:36] <aquadolph> I think that the main focus should be the reform issue and where it stands, and Dave said he could make our meeting and give a talk on the MAC and where certification is...it would be a real education to inform our members about the whole reform issue and the cyanide trade issue and what has been going on for months

[21:37] <liztmap> !

[21:37] <aquadolph> Go Liz

[21:37] <liztmap> It would be really great to record this meeting somehow. Report in upcoming newsletter.

[21:38] <liztmap> I meant the upcoming annual meeting. For those who won't be in attendance

[21:39] <aquadolph> Excellent idea, Liz, for those who weren't at annual meeting could read about it in newsletter

[21:39] <aquadolph> Took me a while...lack of sleep makes me miss the obvious some times'

[21:39] <markss> We did cover it last year, I'm not sure it was in the newsletter...

[21:39] <liztmap> big disgruntlement last year...

[21:40] <aquadolph> I know I had some items about the MACNA in one of our newsletters, but yes, our annual meeting sould be a major item in next newsletter

[21:40] <markss> ?

[21:42] <aquadolph> So back to the meeting...we need to cover our annual financial report (thank you Liz for being pro-active on that), our new educational programs for this year with a plea for help from members, the Platinum program and the reform issue being the big ticket

[21:42] <aquadolph> Go Mark'

[21:43] <aquadolph> Mark?

[21:43] <markss> had a complaint regarding the Sat. 9-12 am meeting time. it is prime speaker time, a big reason many retailers come to MACNA.

[21:44] <jt> yeah, Martin Moe is speaking from 8:30 to 10am

[21:44] <aquadolph> K...we can still change it...does anyone have a schedule and do they know when a better time would be...I need to have it sometime during Saturday

[21:44] <jt> and Hudi is right after that

[21:44] <Rick_> !

[21:45] <aquadolph> Go Rick

[21:45] <Rick_> Serve free pizza for lunch break and hold our meeting then, food will draw them in.

[21:46] <Mike_workin> bring the beers too and I just may go rick ;)

[21:46] <aquadolph> Great suggestion, Rick...all in favor of making it a noon to 2:00PM meeting (may need more than an hour) say yea

[21:46] <aquadolph> Yes, we should spring for food and beverage as we did last year

[21:46] <Rick_> Also people can't complain when their mouth is full.

[21:46] <Rick_> <G>

[21:46] <aquadolph> Hey Tom, have another slice of pizza

[21:46] <jt> umm

[21:47] <jt> The most popular speaker, Eric Borneman, is speaking at 1:15pm

[21:47] <markss> ouch!

[21:47] <aquadolph> That's good...even though it is a bit embarrassing that we already sent a letter out with earlier time on it, we can still get the word out on amdamembers and post it at conference

[21:47] <jt> MACNA schedule - http://www.dfwmas.com/M14_schedule.html

[21:47] <markss> how about an early breakfast?

[21:48] <aquadolph> That just means that we will have to go over the most important stuff in the first hour

[21:48] <Rick_> Sound good to me. Free danish, coffee, juice ect.

[21:48] <aquadolph> No, Mark...not many get there before 9:00AM...we need a time we can really draw people in

[21:48] <Rick_> Most people arrive Friday night.

[21:48] <jt> plus no one from those of their the night before will be over their hangovers from the night before yet.

[21:49] <jt> there

[21:49] <aquadolph> We should be able to wrap all up in i hour and 15 minutes...Lunch is much better than early breakfast

[21:49] <aquadolph> Rick...I am talking about when people get up...I have attended many a breakfast meeting and they don't draw many

[21:50] <Rick_> ok

[21:50] <markss> 6ok

[21:51] <aquadolph> So lets vote on it...how many for lunch...say yes. Yes

[21:51] <jt> Yes

[21:51] <Rick_> lunch

[21:51] <liztmap> fine.

[21:51] <markss> yes

[21:52] <Steve-CRES> yes

[21:52] <aquadolph> OK, then lunch it is...maybe we can make Eric late for his talk...just kidding

[21:52] <liztmap> invite him.

[21:52] <aquadolph> So back to what we should cover...what else should we discuss beyond the stuff I listed?

[21:53] <aquadolph> Good point,Liz

[21:54] <aquadolph> Dave brought up some good suggestions...they are ready to send out 5,000 hobbyist packets on the certification program and once the consumers are aware of the issues, you will see more and more wanting certification

[21:55] <aquadolph> And he said that as Mark should be certified by then, if Mark makes the meeting, he can fill others in on what it takes to get certified

[21:55] <markss> yes on both, i hope...

[21:56] <aquadolph> And he can discuss how AMDA nad MAC can work more closely on projects and we can begin to suggest certification to our member stores

[21:56] <aquadolph> Excellent, MArk...dave did say you should be certified by then so I am crossing my fingers

[21:57] <aquadolph> So...any other suggestions on what we should go over with the members?

[21:59] <markss> I plan to submit a summarization of the past years minutes.

[21:59] <aquadolph> Please speak now or forever hold your peace...Good idea, Mark

[21:59] <markss> for bod approval first.

[21:59] <liztmap> whew!

[22:00] <aquadolph> Yes...hope you can get it done in the time left

[22:00] <aquadolph> K...that about wraps it up...free discussion time...smoke em if you got em

[22:00] <markss> o c'mon you two, you know i work best under pressure...

[22:01] <Steve-CRES> ?

[22:01] <aquadolph> Steve

[22:01] <Steve-CRES> Does anyone know if the blue Gorgoians from Idonesia are being collected illegally?

[22:02] <aquadolph> Mike...heard anything about this one?

[22:02] <markss> good ?, i haven't bought any yet, but thot about it...

[22:03] <markss> MAC will be doing corals eventually...

[22:03] <aquadolph> Some pirate contraband, me says

[22:03] <jt> hmm, haven't heard anything here and I haven't been fined yet for any of the gorgonians I have brought in from Jakarta. ;-)

[22:04] <Steve-CRES> I have had one for a few months and seem to catch small food particles. But The supplier said they didn't get any this week because they were caught before they left the country.

[22:04] <aquadolph> Liz or JT...are either of you copying this and if so, can I get a copy tomorrow?

[22:04] <Steve-CRES> I obviously don't want to support illegal collecting.

[22:05] <liztmap> I am, will post tonight.

[22:05] <aquadolph> Tx,Liz

[22:05] <markss> thanks Liz.

[22:05] <jt> Steve: I'll try and get some info from my exporters in Jakarta.

[22:06] <markss> great jt, i'd like to know too.

[22:06] <Steve-CRES> OK great and see if you can come up with a scientific name. I haven't found any refference.

[22:06] <liztmap> i want to know about this too.

[22:08] <Steve-CRES> should we continue this discussion on the members email list?

[22:10] <aquadolph> Good idea, Steve

[22:10] *** Mike_workin has quit IRC (Excess Flood)

[22:10] *** Mike_workin has joined #amda

[22:10] *** ChanServ sets mode: +o Mike_workin

[22:10] <Steve-CRES> I can post a photo

[22:11] <markss> post it on members board.

[22:11] <aquadolph> I agree

[22:12] <Steve-CRES> OK then, will do

[22:12] <aquadolph> Any other issues?

[22:12] <Mike_workin> just want to point out that the OMSDS are a CORL sponsored education project and AMDA is just helping along with anyone else from hobbyist to Org who wants to help dont lable it as part of your education program.

[22:13] <aquadolph> OK, Mike...as long as we can help in cooperative mode

[22:13] <Mike_workin> forms will be there submit away

[22:14] <aquadolph> Thanks,Mike

[22:15] <aquadolph> any finalcomments?

[22:15] <aquadolph> going...going...

[22:15] <Rick_> See you in Dallas.

[22:15] <aquadolph> See you there too, Rick

[22:15] <Steve-CRES> good luck everyone!

[22:16] <liztmap> yup!

[22:16] <Steve-CRES> night

[22:16] <aquadolph> and Mark and hopefully Mike and JT

[22:16] <aquadolph> Night all

[22:16] <liztmap> night

[22:16] *** Steve-CRES has quit IRC

[22:16] *** aquadolph has left #AMDA

[22:16] <Rick_> Sounds like the beginings of a party!

[22:16] <jt> MACNA is always a party ;-)

[22:16] <Rick_> Good night all!

[22:16] *** Rick_ has left #amda

[22:17] <markss> good nite guys.

[22:17] <jt> night mark

[22:18] <liztmap> bah

Session Close: Mon Sep 16 22:18:35 2002

27 October 2002
Agenda (Draft):
  1. Roll Call
  2. Approval of Minutes
  3. Treasurers report
  4. Newsletter
  5. Educational Programs
  6. Open positions
  7. Open forum

Meeting Log:

[21:24] <aquadolph> Anyway, I promised Rick that we need to keep this short and you have all waited long enough...we should try and get the newsletter nailed down...JT, can you run the next copy if we get you info?

[21:24] <jt> randy: no.

[21:25] <aquadolph> Is that a most certainly no, or can you be bribed?

[21:25] <jt> most certainly no.

[21:25] <liztmap> so that brings us to: how we gonna run this election?

[21:25] <liztmap> idea time, guys.

[21:25] <aquadolph> Hmmmm...well, does anyone have the program that was sent to Jim?

[21:26] <liztmap> not I.

[21:26] <Rick_> crickets........

[21:26] <aquadolph> Could Toni get an issue out...course she and Steve are not here to ask

[21:26] <aquadolph> Crickets?

[21:28] <aquadolph> Liz...can you reach Jim to see if he can send me the program?

[21:28] <Rick_> Sorry, I could only hear crickets on Liz's request.

[21:28] <aquadolph> I don't have a number for him

[21:28] <jt> rick: you are suppose to hear whatever el presidente says. ;-P

[21:28] <aquadolph> Too tired to get that, Rick

[21:28] <Rick_> sorry.

[21:31] <liztmap> who sent jim the program?

[21:31] <aquadolph> Toni?

[21:31] <aquadolph> Or Mary ..can't remember

[21:31] <liztmap> I ended up getting the newsletter out but it was all done w/ email to the publisher.

[21:32] <liztmap> printer, that is.

[21:32] <aquadolph> Wonder if I could get it done at Kinkos?

[21:33] <liztmap> only if you promise to run the cost by us 1st & use the amda check card so I have a record of it because you don't send me receipts.

[21:34] <aquadolph> You should see my desk full of receipts...too many receipts for big projects and yes, I do need to dig thru them and get you my AMDA receipts'

[21:34] <Rick_> !

[21:35] <aquadolph> Anyway, That may be the only solution...I am finally nearing the end of this huge project (now I am in charge of rattlesnales and copperheads as well as fishes)...so I may have time next week

[21:35] <aquadolph> Go Rick

[21:35] <Rick_> Before we send a newsletter we have got to have nominations. We need to get the word out via the message board for nominations.

[21:35] <liztmap> not good enough, Rick. Lotta folks gave up on message board.

[21:36] <aquadolph> Agreed...but we need to get the newsletter ready to go out so we don't delay this into December

[21:36] <liztmap> I agree, though. newsletter should be for results.

[21:36] <aquadolph> I second that

[21:36] <Tim_> at least it is a start

[21:37] <aquadolph> Liz...newsletter needs to get out soon and results will be at end of December, so we need an issue to go out before then

[21:37] <liztmap> I can't see that happening, unless you have a plan. I can't do it.

[21:38] <aquadolph> Liz. I will just have to take the bull by the horn and see if I can piece it together at Kinkos and then find a printer that is reasonable...and you could help with labels

[21:39] <aquadolph> So...any other ideas?

[21:40] <Tim_> we (directors) could do individual e-mails and phone calls calling for nominations and maybe post on the website.

[21:40] <liztmap> Tim, remember! we are short one director that had the biggest territory.

[21:40] <aquadolph> Not a bad idea, Tim...if we can get all regional directors to do so...and we are missing Jim

[21:41] <Tim_> post what nominations we have so far on the website, then Steve should fill in as director at large

[21:41] <Rick_> Do we have a label program to label envelopes. I suggest we send out a letter request from Randy for nominations via mail ASAP to all members.

[21:41] <aquadolph> Who here plans to run for same office next year?

[21:42] <Rick_> I nominated Liz, only if all she has to do is money stuff.

[21:42] <liztmap> agree with rick's letter idea.

[21:42] <jt> I will if we have a new president and AMDA can be saved.

[21:43] <Tim_> Rick that is probably the best idea yet. and post nominations clearly on website

[21:43] <liztmap> liz would have to be more terribly convinced that there would be nothing to it but the $$ stuff.

[21:43] <aquadolph> Arrgghh, the ship is listing badly

[21:44] <aquadolph> Well, so far we have Steve R. nomination for President and possibly Liz as a true treasurer...Mark, are you planning on running?

[21:44] <Tim_> I will stay on as western or at large

[21:44] <aquadolph> Thanks Tim

[21:45] <markss> not for secretary..... : )

[21:45] <aquadolph> And I would like to run for the regional Director for Jim's slot if someone will nominate me

[21:45] * jt nominates Mark for North Central! ;-P

[21:45] <Rick_> I will help out, but not as a director.

[21:46] <jt> randy can take North East.

[21:46] <aquadolph> That would be OK...who would do Jim's south central?

[21:47] <Tim_> Rick wanna be secretary?

[21:50] <jt> question is, is steve taking the nomination seriously?

[21:50] <liztmap> yup. that is the question.

[21:50] <aquadolph> I thought he was on a bit of a roll there for a while with Tom white

[21:50] <markss> has anyone talked to him?

[21:51] <markss> Steve Robinson, that is..

[21:52] <aquadolph> I want to call him but I haven't even had decent time for my family of late

[21:53] <liztmap> so lets call for nominations. can do a letter to everyone. set a date for nominations, last day to submit...

[21:53] <aquadolph> JT...do you want to run (really run) for any position with AMDA...if we do get another President?

[21:54] <liztmap> randy if you type it in word, I can try my hand at getting oit on the stationary.

[21:54] <jt> randy: I believe in AMDA, I feel AMDA is needed, so yes, I will. I'd run for president if I had the time but I don't

[21:55] <Rick_> We need to have an inspirational letter requesting nominations. Randy can you write one.

[21:55] <aquadolph> I think that is the most manageable thing to do, but want to make sure we know who has been nominated so far...Mark for North Central, Liz for treasurer, Tim for western regional , me (will someone nominate me) for Northeast?

[21:55] <Tim_> so we have Steve Robinson possible Prez, JT possible VP, Liz possible Treasurer, Myself and Randy possible directors, Mark maybe a director? Rick any ideas? Steve Ruddy?

[21:55] <Rick_> It seems we have the directors covered. What we need now is leadership.

[21:55] <aquadolph> Yes, Rick, I can, but need to know who of us will be in among nominations

[21:56] <liztmap> liz would really rather help from the sidelines...

[21:56] <aquadolph> Yes, the helm is a key position and we need someone who really wants the job

[21:57] <aquadolph> Oh Liz, stay the course and we will keep it strictly to dealing with the coffers

[21:58] <liztmap> but another thing we need to worry about is the website. will toni still help us?

[21:58] <liztmap> this is a biggie.

[21:58] <liztmap> i couldn't have held up my end w/out her.

[21:59] <aquadolph> Yes, it is...I thought she was still with us...but will have to call her...maybe what I will have to do is call each of you and then get the letter ready for review and we will get it out...but I won't have time for calls till Thursday at earliest

[22:01] <aquadolph> Is that a plan...will call each of you to see if you will run and if so, for what and then draft a letter calling for nominations and including the ones we know about and go from there?

[22:01] <Rick_> Sounds good.

[22:02] <aquadolph> Sorry if I seem slow tonight...feel like I am approaching "brain dead" with too much on my mind and not enough sleep

[22:02] <aquadolph> K...any other issues, guys?

[22:03] <Rick_> None here.

[22:03] <aquadolph> JT?

[22:03] <jt> i've been calling for nominations at the MASNA meetings, nothing has come of it yet.

[22:03] <aquadolph> Thanks, JT

[22:03] <aquadolph> Mark?

[22:03] <jt> shoud I post something on reefs.org?

[22:04] <aquadolph> If that is mainly a hobby board, not sure if it is a good idea

[22:06] <markss> Randy, I have a message from a "Jim from Pheonix". He asked for your phone #.

[22:06] <markss> His phone # is 480-283-0394

[22:07] <jt> come on, rock the vote with things like 'Unhappy with AMDA, change it.. nominate and/or vote in the upcoming election'.

[22:07] <liztmap> so word it correctly & run it by us then, jt.

[22:07] <markss> well put jt.

[22:07] <liztmap> I'm all for inspiration.

[22:07] <Tim_> I dont think it would be a bad idea jt, maybe it would initiate some new blood

[22:08] <markss> I agree. We need to get the word out everywhere...

[22:08] <jt> it's not all hobbyists randy.

[22:09] <markss> urge hobbyists to ask their retailers to get involved.

[22:09] <Rick_> I hate to say this but the fat lady is getting ready to sing. Unless we get some new leadership and support from hobbyist and anyone else........

[22:09] <aquadolph> That's not bad, Mark

[22:10] <liztmap> cream rises to the top, babies.i may have changed my mind...

[22:10] <jt> uh oh, liz is getting pornographic on us.

[22:10] <liztmap> not likely. I have yet to get a beer off any of you.

[22:11] <aquadolph> LOL

[22:11] <jt> liz: you haven't met me yet ;-)

[22:11] <aquadolph> Aarrgghh...JT's the rougue, Liz

[22:12] <liztmap> he just doesn't wanna have to find a new treasurer.

[22:12] <Tim_> Liz does that mean you are good for treasurer? I think that if there is one thing this BOD has done is get the dues up to date from the membership. Thanks Liz.

[22:13] <aquadolph> Hear Hear, Liz

[22:13] <jt> yeah, Liz kicks ass as treasurer.

[22:14] <markss> brains, beauty, and balls, your awesome Liz!

[22:14] <aquadolph> I was just thinking...my sister, Shelby could get the next newsletter out with my help...I will still do the letter for nominations, but she and I could get the next issue together

[22:16] <aquadolph> we do have enough articles and stuff to get an issue out and it might help bring in some more nominations

[22:16] <jt> ?? I heard a rumor that Marine Ornamentals 2003 will be in Kona in November, has anyone heard anything confirming this?

[22:16] <Tim_> As a member I would periodically find myself removed from the members list on the website and had not ever received any notification that my dues were due. This is something that has been expressed to me by other members in my region as well. Now we have at least overcome that major problem. I shudder to think how many members we lost over the years who weren't as persistent.

[22:16] <aquadolph> No...haven't heard that one, JT

[22:17] <aquadolph> Yeah, we don't want to loose either Liz or Toni

[22:18] <aquadolph> Anyway...any more issues or comments or jokes???

[22:19] <liztmap> we have a hard core faithful, tim. I hear that from them too. Randy, don't rush a newsletter, a well-worded letter calling for nominations, then ballots sent out can work. Get out a super letter at end of year w/ results.

[22:19] * jt agrees with liz.

[22:20] <Tim_> I agree w/Liz save the $$ for the next BOD to do something with

[22:21] <Rick_> Ditto

[22:22] <aquadolph> OK...I don't have enough energy to fight all or any of you, so I will lay down the newsletter idea and focus on the letter for nominations

[22:22] <liztmap> good deal.

[22:22] <liztmap> like i said, if toni can't, I can try to paste it onto the stationary.

[22:22] <aquadolph> K, Liz

[22:36] <aquadolph> Anyway...any more comments or quips?

[22:36] <Rick_> None here.

[22:36] * jt is quipped out for tonight.

[22:36] <liztmap> nope.

[22:36] <Tim_> nope

[22:36] <markss> not here

[22:37] <aquadolph> K, guys...how about meeting again in three weeks?

[22:37] <liztmap> we need to get the letter out next week.

[22:37] <Tim_> ok when should we expect the letter to go out

[22:38] <aquadolph> Yes, the letter is to be done next week...meet next Nov 18th?

[22:39] <liztmap> looks ok here.

[22:39] <Rick_> Works for me.

[22:39] <markss> ok w/me

[22:39] <jt> mmm hmm

[22:40] <aquadolph> Great...Liz, can you get me a copy of the meeting?

[22:40] <liztmap> yup.

[22:40] <markss> me too Liz, please...

[22:40] <aquadolph> Thanks...Jt? Hmmm???

[22:40] <liztmap> will post to amdabod.

[22:40] <aquadolph> Thanks, SUPER TREASURER!!!

[22:41] <liztmap> stop it.

[22:41] <markss> Wonder Woman!

[22:41] <liztmap> you too.

[22:42] <aquadolph> K, Guys...I'm fading fast and I know Rick needs to depart for slumber land w early wake-up...so good night all

[22:42] <liztmap> night all.

[22:42] <jt> night

[22:42] <markss> good night guys.

Session Close: Mon Oct 28 22:43:03 2002

 

18 November 2002
Agenda (Draft):
  1. Roll Call
  2. Approval of Minutes
  3. Treasurers report
  4. Newsletter
  5. Educational Programs
  6. Open positions
  7. Open forum

Meeting Log:

[21:04] *** Now talking in #amda

[21:04] <aquadolph> Hey, Liz

[21:04] <jt> there she is, miss amda

[21:04] <liztmap> hey all.

[21:06] <aquadolph> So all we are waiting on is Steve/Toni, as Rick and Tim cancelled out due to problems with time

[21:06] <markss> if i could put time in a bottle....

[21:06] <aquadolph> Let me call them...

[21:07] <aquadolph> Steve will be with us momentarily

[21:08] *** Steve-CRES has joined #amda

[21:08] <aquadolph> Yo Steve

[21:09] <Steve-CRES> hi sorry I'm late

[21:09] <aquadolph> No problem...only a few minutes

[21:09] <aquadolph> So lets get going here...my computer has been freezing of late so I want to keep this short

[21:10] <aquadolph> First off, Liz...what is our balance...just the balance to date

[21:10] <liztmap> $4026.70

[21:10] *** Rick_ has joined #amda

[21:11] <aquadolph> OK...here's my proposal...Liz did get some advertizing rates and it seems to me that we should try and place an ad for December or January so that we might have some momentun as we go into our new year

[21:11] <Rick_> Hey all

[21:11] <aquadolph> What happened to the family emergency, Rick?

[21:12] <Rick_> I can't stay long. I snuck out for a while.

[21:12] <aquadolph> K

[21:12] <aquadolph> Was just proposing that as we have plenty in our coffers that we put an ad in so that we have some momentum going into 2003

[21:13] <aquadolph> We will be getting plenty of money in in January, so spending a little now could help bring in new members

[21:14] <aquadolph> Liz...what was the company and what were the rates?

[21:15] <liztmap> I left the sheet at the shop, but I can scan it tomorrow night & fax it to you all. It was the Backer mag...Pet Something...

[21:15] <aquadolph> Pet Age?

[21:16] <liztmap> don't think so...don't remember the words, just the pic.

[21:16] <liztmap> yellow tangs.

[21:16] <aquadolph> Well, if you could do so, we could try and get a consensus over next week

[21:16] <liztmap> I'll do so.

[21:16] <aquadolph> Thanks.

[21:18] <aquadolph> Wanted to tell all of you that I get the monthly zoo org magazine "communiqué" and Living Colors has a beautiful full page color ad in it with their website and our website and logo at bottom...really caught me by surprise and really looked sharp

[21:18] <aquadolph> Matter of fact, got a message tonight from someone who saw and liked our website and wants more info on finding a job in Michigan with an environmentally friendly co...forwarded it to Mark

[21:19] <aquadolph> He loved our web site by the way

[21:19] <aquadolph> Anyway, two main items on agenda are the election and the final newsletter

[21:20] <aquadolph> Liz asked me today how do we get the ballots out to the members? Rick, how was it done two years ago?

[21:20] <Rick_> The ballots were mailed with the newsletter, if I recall.

[21:20] <aquadolph> Well, than won't work as we don't get the newsletter out till the end of December

[21:21] <Rick_> The good part with that is that the profiles of the people running were included in the newsletter.

[21:21] <aquadolph> I was wondering if we could have members send ballots by e-mail or by Fax or letter (handwritten) to Mark

[21:21] <Steve-CRES> !

[21:22] <aquadolph> Question is, do we need to mail out an official ballot to each member or can we try and e-mail one out?

[21:22] <aquadolph> Go Steve

[21:22] <aquadolph> Rick, I agree on the newsletter concept, but without an editor, we can't do it

[21:22] <Steve-CRES> As far as not getting info out via the newsletter. I can get Toni to put the profiles on the website

[21:23] <aquadolph> That would work

[21:23] <liztmap> yes!

[21:23] <Rick_> Another suggestion is to send out the ballots and put the profiles on the web site.

[21:23] <Steve-CRES> We then can send an email via message board

[21:23] <liztmap> !

[21:23] <Steve-CRES> Telling everyone to check it out

[21:23] <aquadolph> Go Liz

[21:23] <liztmap> too many not on message board.

[21:24] <liztmap> Rick Preuss doesn't even list an email addy.

[21:24] <Rick_> great minds think alike Steve.

[21:24] <Steve-CRES> Oh

[21:24] <aquadolph> I only worry about the few who don't have or don't respond to e-mail

[21:25] <Steve-CRES> Well then should we print and mail the profiles?

[21:25] <aquadolph> If we knew who didn't have e-mail ability or didn't use it, we could send ballots out to most via e-mail and then mail out to the few who don't use it...would save time and money

[21:25] <liztmap> !

[21:25] <aquadolph> Go Liz

[21:26] <liztmap> post profiles on sight, mail ballots? We don't have a clue who doesn't read their email.

[21:26] <liztmap> most didn't even submit an updated app. with renewal.

[21:28] <aquadolph> If we had time, best way would be to get a profile from each candidate and then mail out a profile of each and a ballot...that is how many of my organizations I belong to do it. But as we are tight for time for candidates to get profiles out, makes most sense to tell them to get them out on our board and them maybe pull them off and put together our own profile compilation and ballot and mail them

[21:29] <aquadolph> out ourselves

[21:29] <aquadolph> Time is a big factor here

[21:30] <aquadolph> Mitch actually started the process for us, but I think we need to let each candidate do their own idea of a brief profile

[21:31] <aquadolph> So what do yuz guys think?

[21:33] <aquadolph> We could say to each candidate that they could just go with what they put out for Mitch's questions or if they wanted to put out their own profile. Me personally...I got off track on mine, so I do feel I need to put something aimed at the future out there

[21:33] <liztmap> I think Toni should post profiles on sight, we can refer membership to profiles when we send them a ballot.

[21:34] <Steve-CRES> Liz has good idea

[21:34] <aquadolph> I agree...the web site is a good neutral place to read up on this stuff and it will be up for potential new members to see as well

[21:35] <markss> sounds good to me.

[21:35] <aquadolph> Rick, JT?

[21:35] <jt> sounds fine

[21:36] <aquadolph> K, then its a deal...I will post a request for profiles for website tomorrow for candidates.

[21:36] <aquadolph> As for candidates, we do need to get one for a newseditor

[21:37] <aquadolph> Can you each think about this and call anyone you know who (as JT puts it) has a passion for this type of work?

[21:37] <Rick_> sorry, I had to step away....agreed

[21:37] <aquadolph> Could even be a new potential member

[21:37] <aquadolph> Thanks Rick

[21:40] <aquadolph> Anyway, this leads us into the final issue...we need a newsletter editor candidate and we could sure use someone's help in getting out the last issue. If there are no suggestions, I could ask my sister, Shelby, if she would do it on a "for hire" basis (pay her for a few hours of her time)...we do have to get someone who can pull all this together and we may have to just hire someone

[21:41] <liztmap> and we need someone to make up a ballot.

[21:41] <aquadolph> Yes, that would be good too

[21:41] <Steve-CRES> !

[21:41] <aquadolph> Go Steve

[21:42] <Steve-CRES> Toni suggests that we are not going about this the right way. We do not have anyone currently, who has the publishing skills to do the newsletter in house. We have the $ to hire a publisher to do this once/quarter.

[21:42] <Steve-CRES> Unless one of our new candidates has the skill and the time to do it, we need to farm this out.

[21:43] <aquadolph> Tis true...we never had the money before but we do now

[21:43] <liztmap> agreed

[21:43] <Steve-CRES> The members, and the BOD still need to come up with the articles and copy, but we just do not have the expertise.

[21:44] <aquadolph> Agreed here...need to find someone reasonable and a newsletter price that is also reasonable

[21:45] <aquadolph> I mentioned my sister as a last resort...she would help as a favor to me but she refused when I had asked her to help out temporarily last summer...so does anyone know how to find someone like this?

[21:46] <Steve-CRES> Yellow pages

[21:46] <aquadolph> Hmmm...and who would be the contact person?

[21:46] <aquadolph> who

[21:46] <Steve-CRES> The Secretary

[21:46] <aquadolph> Which one of us will handle working with the editor?

[21:47] <Rick_> Maybe Mikki Ichinatsubo would be willing to do this. She did it before Mary.

[21:47] <aquadolph> Hmmm...yes, it does sound like a secretary's job (poor mark is getting lots of last minute tasks to do)

[21:47] <Rick_> Randy, maybe if you asked her?

[21:48] <aquadolph> I wonder Rick...she and Lance seem to have no time to help of late..I am willing to call her but I have my doubts

[21:48] <Rick_> It wouldn't hurt.

[21:49] <Rick_> SHe may even still have the software.

[21:49] <Steve-CRES> Toni volunteers to put out a website only Newsletter for this year

[21:49] <aquadolph> True...I will give her a call...but will also have to be ready to activate the "fingers walking thru the Yellow Pages"...Mark, can you help me on this?

[21:49] <Steve-CRES> Do we have enough content?

[21:49] <aquadolph> You mean one last issue?

[21:49] <Steve-CRES> Yes

[21:49] <Rick_> Hey folds, I have got to go. Is there anything else?

[21:49] <Rick_> folds=folks

[21:49] <aquadolph> Or an issue now and then the last one for the election results?

[21:50] <Steve-CRES> She will do 1

[21:50] <aquadolph> No, Rick, this is it for me...unless someone else has any important stuff

[21:50] <Rick_> Next meeting?

[21:51] <aquadolph> I realize she meant one, Steve...I am just wondering if we could get her to do one soon and then hire someone for the end of the year letter...that would sure make us look a little better

[21:51] <Rick_> Nite all.

[21:51] <liztmap> nite rick.

[21:51] *** Rick_ has left #amda

[21:51] <aquadolph> Next meeting I would say three weeks from now

[21:51] <aquadolph> OOPS

[21:51] <liztmap> not enough to write about, randy

[21:52] <Steve-CRES> She will be happy to do one now.

[21:52] <Steve-CRES> She does need content though

[21:52] <aquadolph> Actually, Liz, you are wrong, for we do have a couple of articles that members promised, I could write one, we could get one from Dave and we could easily find a few fillers to run as well

[21:53] <aquadolph> I think we could get a simple website one up and out pretty quickly

[21:53] <liztmap> randy, it just seems we'd really be pushing to get 2 out.

[21:54] <Steve-CRES> Liz do you mean material wise?

[21:54] <liztmap> a bunch of members want it snailmail. not on website.

[21:55] <aquadolph> I always felt we could quickly fill one issue with some good stuff on certification...that is doable and filling in the rest on that would not be hard. The final one would have the elections results and some stuff about our new leaders and things to look for next year

[21:55] <liztmap> we would have to print twice

[21:55] <Steve-CRES> Liz you can print it out and mail it to them

[21:56] <aquadolph> Liz...snailmail for the final issue, but the website is a bonus for us and those on web and if we got requests, we could see about printing out a few

[21:56] <Steve-CRES> Toni can format it so it looks good

[21:56] <liztmap> at roughly $600-800, no, my printer is so ornery I can't even get the last mailing out right at the moment.

[21:56] <aquadolph> I used to work on our zoo newsletter, so I don't think getting some articles together from without will be so hard...just hard to get them from our actual board members

[21:58] <liztmap> we gave them a choice, many picked snail. making them beg for it isn't right.

[21:58] <aquadolph> Liz...you don't need to do the printing...the final issue will be farmed out and the website one will be on internet and I will get out any requests for snail mail via kinkos if I have to...1 dollar a page there

[21:58] <aquadolph> Liz...please don't make this positive into a negative...they simply request a copy, not beg for one

[21:59] <liztmap> several have already requested snail, that's what I'm trying to tell you. ok, sorry about choice of words, but, they requested snail already. I can tell you who they are.

[21:59] <aquadolph> If we get some comments that they want snail mail, then once we have it together, we get them copies mailed

[22:00] <liztmap> then why did we bother to ask them in the 1st place?

[22:00] <aquadolph> Get me their names and I will get copies of the website newsletter to them...that is easier than trying to get all the election stuff together in less than two weeks

[22:01] <liztmap> k.

[22:01] <aquadolph> Liz...I always am for snail mail first, but this offer by Toni helps get us the final issue I was hoping for and we can get it out via web or snail as they requested...it is a plus

[22:02] <liztmap> fine. I agree, but if they opted for snail, they should get it.

[22:02] <aquadolph> I had long talks with Dave and Steve earlier tonight and both are moving towards common ground...not there yet, but getting there. Their conversations alone would make for fascinating reading

[22:02] <Steve-CRES> Teh this is only because we don't have the luxury to do as planned

[22:03] <aquadolph> Or Time

[22:04] <aquadolph> I can get a quick letter from Peter Rubec on his take, Mike King might want to give us a tidbit on his coral conservation program, we can definitely get something from Dave and maybe from World Wildlife

[22:05] <aquadolph> It would certainly tie us into all of these programs and groups and make us look like players again

[22:05] <liztmap> I have an article from Karen St. Pierre.

[22:05] <aquadolph> Exactly...see

[22:06] <aquadolph> Like JT said, find the passionate ones (there are many that wear the good guy hats) and they will be willing to promote their cause

[22:06] <aquadolph> Or I could do interviews...that would be cool

[22:07] <aquadolph> Does anyone want to help or should I just go for it?

[22:08] <aquadolph> Now I have put them all asleep

[22:08] <Steve-CRES> OK with me

[22:09] <aquadolph> JT< Mark?

[22:09] <markss> go for it Randy.

[22:10] <aquadolph> JT, is Mike in the states or abroad?

[22:10] <liztmap> do what you can, maybe post a request for articles on list.

[22:10] <aquadolph> I will do that, Liz...but I won't hold my breath.

[22:11] <aquadolph> Steve...can Toni get us some nice fish shots as fillers...or coral shots?

[22:12] <jt> he's here

[22:12] <Steve-CRES> I will donate some

[22:12] <aquadolph> K...K

[22:13] <aquadolph> Then I will get busy on this...I can not do the final outlay but I do know how to get articles from people

[22:13] <Steve-CRES> Good

[22:14] <aquadolph> That about sums up what I had to say...so it is open forum time...any issues, problems, comments...

[22:15] <aquadolph> Anyone???

[22:16] <Steve-CRES> Nope I'm good

[22:16] <aquadolph> Jt?

[22:16] <liztmap> i'm good.

[22:16] <aquadolph> Mark?

[22:16] <markss> None for now.

[22:17] <Steve-CRES> Can some the candidates list?

[22:17] <Steve-CRES> Send Toni

[22:17] <jt> all good

[22:17] <aquadolph> Will get a candidate list to Toni for the issue, Steve

[22:18] <Steve-CRES> She means now for the website so people can review

[22:18] <aquadolph> And should we offer any of them space in the newsletter for a short summary or should we keep that separate on the website?

[22:18] <Steve-CRES> their platforms

[22:19] <aquadolph> Yes...so we will have candidates send their platforms to Toni to post

[22:19] <aquadolph> Should we limit it's size?

[22:19] <Steve-CRES> No

[22:19] <aquadolph> K...guess there is plenty of room

[22:20] <aquadolph> How about Dec 9th for next meeting?

[22:21] <aquadolph> Same time, same page

[22:21] <markss> ok with me.

[22:21] <liztmap> k

[22:21] <Steve-CRES> Ok with me

[22:21] <Steve-CRES> Liz did you ad Toni's email address to the AMDABOD members list?

[22:22] <liztmap> which one does she want?

[22:23] <Steve-CRES> Toni@coralreefecosystems.com

[22:23] <liztmap> i'll do it.

[22:23] <Steve-CRES> Thanks

[22:23] <aquadolph> Thank you all for attending and if there are no further comments, I bid you all goodnight

[22:23] <Steve-CRES> Talk to you all soon. Happy Thanksgiving!

[22:23] <liztmap> you want log posted?

[22:24] <aquadolph> Yea...happy turkey day,all

[22:24] <liztmap> you too, steve

[22:24] <aquadolph> Yes, Liz

[22:24] <liztmap> & the rest.

[22:24] <liztmap> k.

[22:24] <markss> goodnight all, and Happy Thanksgiving.

[22:24] *** aquadolph has left #AMDA

[22:24] *** Steve-CRES has left #amda

[22:25] *** Disconnected

Session Close: Mon Nov 18 22:25:09 2002

 

09 December 2002
Agenda (Draft):
  1. Roll Call
  2. Approval of Minutes
  3. Treasurers report
  4. Newsletter
  5. Educational Programs
  6. Open positions
  7. Open forum

Meeting Log:

[21:18] <aquadolph> Hey guys...Paul is having no luck getting on a server there so he has set up the possibility of us all calling an 800 number after we are done w our stuff so we can all talk on a conference call. I said I would ask you guys if you want to try that and would get back to him. That sounds kind of cool and I want to ask some pointed questions to Paul so you all might want to be in on this. So does that sound like a plan (call him after we meet to go ove
[21:19] <liztmap> my only complaint is that we can't log it.
[21:20] <aquadolph> Well, we will all be witness to it, so that makes several witnesses
[21:21] <aquadolph> What about you, Tim, Steve, Mark and JT (if you really are there?)
[21:21] <Steve-CRES> ha ha ok!
[21:22] <markss> ok here.
[21:22] <aquadolph> Tim?
[21:22] <aquadolph> JT?
[21:23] <Tim_> depends how late
[21:24] <aquadolph> Now paul has a sevrer so he is trying to connect
[21:25] <aquadolph> It won't be too late, as I have things to do for work after this
[21:26] <aquadolph> Maybe he will get on...but he will call me soon if he can't get on...he did type in #AMDA BOD but it didn't get him to our site
[21:26] <aquadolph> Anyway, lets start the meeting and we will shift to him if he shows
[21:27] <aquadolph> Newsletter is first on the list
[21:28] <aquadolph> Jeff dale's blurb should probably be titled "food for thought" for it does leave you with as many questions as answers...it's not exacly what he said he was going to write about
[21:29] <aquadolph> It is about a wholesaler who is putting CO2 into his tanks to acclimate the fishes that come in in low pH...I thought he said they were adding CO2 to the shipping bags
[21:29] <aquadolph> Anyway, it is good to know, so one can watch for such signs of fish stress and know what questions to ask the wholesaler you are dealing with
[21:30] <aquadolph> Steve...did Toni get anything from Dave Vosseler and does she have Karen's piece?
[21:31] <Steve-CRES> Sorry She is not here. If They enmailed it to her she has it.
[21:31] <Steve-CRES> e mailed
[21:31] <aquadolph> I will have to ask Dave tomorrow
[21:31] <Steve-CRES> I'm pretty sure she has Karens
[21:32] <liztmap> me too.  yell if she need it again.
[21:32] <aquadolph> I wanted to get at least one more piece to her by tonight or tomorrow and then I think she should maybe put up a proof for just us to quickly review and then post to website...what to you guys think?
[21:33] <liztmap> fine.
[21:33] <Tim_> ok by me
[21:34] <aquadolph> MArk, Steve,,,JT (if you are really there?
[21:34] <Steve-CRES> ok
[21:35] <aquadolph> Mark?
[21:36] <aquadolph> Hmmm...must be a brain drain going oin up in Michigan
[21:37] <markss> yeah Randy, that's great; are you writing one up?
[21:37] <aquadolph> Mark and JT  you two still with us?
[21:38] <markss> you're close Randy, only it's been a brain and body drain.
[21:38] <aquadolph> Toni is putting a newsletter together for us all to review...I have sent her several pieces and she has some stuff from Karen and possibly Dave...and I was hoping you could give her a quick blurb on what it was like to get certified as a store...is that possible?
[21:39] <aquadolph> All we need is something you could sum up in say two or three paragraphs
[21:41] * Guest61672 has joined #AMDA
[21:41] <Guest61672> Hello this is Paul
[21:41] <aquadolph> Thats paul
[21:41] <liztmap> Hey Paul.
[21:41] <Guest61672> Hello
[21:41] <aquadolph> Paul, we were just going over our next newsletter issue
[21:42] <markss> Hi Paul.
[21:42] <Guest61672> OK, I don't show any of the previous discussion so I'll wait till you want my input
[21:42] <Steve-CRES> hey
[21:42] <Guest61672> Hello to all
[21:43] <aquadolph> Paul, as your time is valuable, I think we should go to issues we want to discuss with you. I don't want to put you on the spot but I have some pointed questions I need to ask you and they deal with some of the CC's I have been getting of late from Steve Robinson, Mirive Laurel, Bob fenner and Peter Rubec
[21:44] <Guest61672> Ok shot
[21:44] <Guest61672> I mean "shoot"
[21:44] <aquadolph> Steve has been upset for some time that the net training is not going according to plan or time schedule
[21:45] <aquadolph> He feels that a few good people are being trained, but not enough to handle an increase in shippers and groups getting certified
[21:45] <aquadolph> Mirive is echoing his sediments
[21:47] <aquadolph> And now it seems to be getting ugly with claims that MAC is lying to people and not holding their end of the bargain up...and Mirive is saying that she will be forced out of business because now some of the cyanide collectors are being certified and that is an issue and she is not getting enough of the premium fish to sell and that is cutting bug time into her profits
[21:47] <Guest61672> We doing as much as we can with the resources we have and the complications of developing collection area management plans as well as training collectors. The standards require a community based process to devp mgmt plans, as well as just training.
[21:48] <Guest61672> The training is not just in net collecting but also order mgmt log book keeping, packaging, post harvest handling - a very comprehensive program.
[21:48] <aquadolph> I keep saying that people should stick to issues but some of them want to say that you personally are responsible for a major lack in communication. As I only get info from Dave, I don't know what they mean specifically...however, they are saying louder and louder that "Paul the Wall" is a major stumbling block.
[21:49] <aquadolph> Mirive also said that she took six months to get ready to get certified and really had to work at it and then two bad dealers were certified in a month...I don't know if this is just grumbling or what but I can understand why she is upset.
[21:50] <Guest61672> I agree lets stick to issues. I will respond as they come across my screen. Next issue you raised: certification of collectors. After that # 3: amount of time for exporters to get certifiers.
[21:51] <Guest61672> Exporters are certified for their operations and facilities.
[21:52] <aquadolph> In regard to the collectors, Steve claims that the areas that were certified for collections did not hold any of the good fishes and that is partly why Mirivi doesn't get any good fishes to sell (blue tang for example...is that being rectified?
[21:52] <Guest61672> It has been communicated from the start that there are 2 aspects: facilities certification and certified fish/corals.
[21:52] <Guest61672> As Randy will recall from the mtg w US industry, there was a strong call for certification of facilities.
[21:53] <Guest61672> I am still on issue # 2 and will continue on this for a minute. Issue 4 is not good fish in certified areas.
[21:53] <aquadolph> and that should go hand in hand with enough good fishes that are certified to support such facilities...are the collection sites keeping up with numbers of businesses wanting fishes
[21:54] <Guest61672> Please allow me to finish each issue. If you would rather we all get on the phone, let's do that. It would be much more efficient. We will cover the cost.
[21:55] <aquadolph> That would be good, as I am confused about which issue is which
[21:55] <aquadolph> Paul, can you give us the 800 number so we can all call you or should we finish our meeting and then call you?
[21:56] <Guest61672> Go ahead and finish your mtg. I'll go offline and then call you w the 800 #
[21:57] * Disconnected
Session Close: Mon Dec 09 21:57:45 2002
Session Start: Mon Dec 09 21:58:53 2002
Session Ident: #amda
[21:58] * Now talking in #amda
[21:59] <liztmap> ?
[21:59] <aquadolph> Go Liz
[21:59] <liztmap> I got bumped (storm), what did I miss?
[21:59] <aquadolph> Just me asking Mark to write a blurb on how the certification process went
[21:59] <aquadolph> And am still waiting on Mark to answer
[22:00] <liztmap> am I hallucinating or was Paul here at one point?
[22:00] <markss> I plan to write an article about it; but I will come up w/something short now.
[22:00] <aquadolph> Yes he was and I think I got a bit under his collar...but then that is what he gets paid to do
[22:01] <aquadolph> That would be super, Mark...I just don't want this web site issue to look like I wrote the whole thing.
[22:02] <aquadolph> If any of you can think of a tidbit or two on "did you know that" type theme, please shoot them off to Toni...I have sent her three already.
[22:04] <aquadolph> Anyone have anything they want to say/ask about newsletter...?
[22:04] <liztmap> could we put a ballot in it?
[22:05] <aquadolph> Paul just called...I told him we will finish up and then we are all to call 888-483-2664 and enter password 6288# . So write that down now soi you don't loose track of it
[22:05] <markss> Thank you Toni for doing such an incredible! job on all you've done.
[22:05] <aquadolph> I told him I would call when we are done and then we all will call
[22:06] <aquadolph> Ditto for me to Toni as well
[22:06] <liztmap> I'll drink to that, too!
[22:06] <aquadolph> No other newsletter issues?
[22:06] <liztmap> ballot...
[22:07] <aquadolph> OK...on to elections
[22:08] <aquadolph> I guess we did not get a candidate for Director at Large
[22:08] <aquadolph> But we can still take nominations
[22:09] <aquadolph> I did not get an individual message out to members on email on the election and candidates. Just couldn't get it done
[22:09] <aquadolph> We did post it to all
[22:09] <aquadolph> at least all who have email
[22:10] <Tim_> !
[22:10] <aquadolph> Go Tim
[22:10] <Tim_> If we don't get a director at large I would be willing
[22:11] <Steve-CRES> Ok I nominate Tim
[22:11] <liztmap> second
[22:11] <aquadolph> But aren't you running for western director as well?
[22:11] <Steve-CRES> !
[22:11] <aquadolph> Go Steve
[22:11] <Tim_> im just saying I would do either or
[22:11] <aquadolph> K
[22:12] <Steve-CRES> Who is mailing out ballot's and what is the voting deadline. Also what is the effective date of new term. Toni wants to put this info on the website
[22:14] <liztmap> !
[22:14] <aquadolph> I don't think we will be mailing out ballots...the votes can be emailed in or Faxed in but I don't think we have time to mail out ballots. Deadline on votes is Dec 31 and new term starts JAN IST
[22:14] <aquadolph> gO lIZ
[22:14] <liztmap> I don't think we can get away w/out mailing ballots.  Sorry to disagree.
[22:14] <aquadolph> If someone wants to volunteer to get ballots out then go for it...
[22:14] <liztmap> I think I know what comes next...
[22:15] <liztmap> We need an extension of voting deadline.
[22:15] <aquadolph> It would actually fall on Mark's shoulders, but I doubt he has any more free time than the rest of us and I realize it should be donbe but I can't do another mailing
[22:17] <liztmap> Does Rick Preuss know he's been nominated?
[22:17] <aquadolph> That's what happened last election...they let the vote collections go tillmid January cause they took too long to get the ballots out...do we want to try and get a newsletter out at end of year with actual ballots included...that might work
[22:17] <liztmap> Didn't I suggest that earlier?
[22:18] <aquadolph> We did say we would get one out with results, but if that won't happen, then it could be for ballots instead
[22:18] <liztmap> why can't we get the ballot out in the issue Toni is working on?
[22:18] <markss> That's a great idea!  We do one last newsletter, a good one, w/ballot.
[22:19] <liztmap> the one last newsletter must go out NOW.
[22:19] <markss> set the deadline for nominations soon and post it.
[22:19] <aquadolph> I am not sure if you did, but I probably would have countered with we need to wrap the election up by end of year...and as usual, here we are in the busy holiday season and I personally can't get any extra work done till after Xmas
[22:21] <aquadolph> Liz...we have a newsletter ready to go by Toni on line now...if you say to use it as the ballot one OK by me...and I will mail the few that did ask to be off the amdamembers list or that don't have email (like Rick in Mich)
[22:21] <liztmap> 1)  what extra work would you be doing above what you've already done for the upcoming issue?  2)have all the candidates been informed & have they accepted their nominations?
[22:22] <aquadolph> 1) Getting the ballot put together is extra but could be done by Toni
[22:22] <aquadolph> 2) As far as I know, yes, they are all informed and all have accepted their nomination (wasn't sure if Steve was going to accept his, but he is getting into the spirit of late
[22:23] <liztmap> Have you heard from Bruce?
[22:23] <liztmap> Mitch's nominee?
[22:24] <aquadolph> Steve...could Toni get a ballot together if we p