Friends and Members

[Morph]

After two and half years of running Florida NECO I am ready to step down. Between maintaining and paying for the website, handling merchandise orders, moderating here, settling disputes or handling complaints from disgruntled members, organizing events/meets, putting with anti-Bash conspiracies, and trying to handle all that real life throws at me at the same time is just too much. I've watched this club grow from 6 members to over 150. My underlying goal and belief as president has always been to help and bring together cougar members and I feel I have accomplished that and stuck with this organization longer than most would have. Most of the founding members are gone or rarely participate on the boards anymore and I understand why. The unnecessary drama, personal fueds, and lack of respect is just not what people should have to put with when seeking car information. Some may not see a serious problem, but I have had several people recently ask to be removed from the Member's List. Florida NECO is the largest chapter on these boards and has always been envied because our chapter never had the petty issues that has plagued so many smaller chapters. Our members were genuinely interested in helping others while civily and respectfully resolving any issues that arose. Until recently I felt that my position and what I have accomplished for this club was respected and appreciated. I can't in clear conscience remain president if some people are asking to leave and other people can't respect the decisions I make, which have always been in the best interest of the club. I'm obviously falling short somewhere and maybe a new pres is what the club needs to get back into shape.

To all of the great friends I've made thanks to this club, this is not goodbye, you're all still welcome at my place anytime and I hope to hang out at some meets occassionally. Florida NECO still has great potential, everyone just needs identify the purpose of it and do their part to positively reinforce it. For a free and voluntary organization, we have accomplished some incredible things together and come a long way.

So, enough of my ranting, I will continue to operate the website, enroll new members and handle merchandise orders for now, but I am resigning as president and moderator. I have already added Jason (Thundercat2002) as a moderator because he has always shown pride in the club while maintaining respect and maturity. I suggest that everyone hold an election to appoint a new president and additional moderator. Of course anyone can run for the position that is interested, but for reference only and after being around as long as I have, here is a list of the members that I feel would be capable of handling the responsibilities in the best interest of the club:

BatCougar
Rob8100
Thundercat2002
Loyalty
Al
Caenus

[Tuy3n]

Thanks, Morph. You did a great job. :cry:

[8BaLL]

http://forums.offtopic.com/images/smilies/sadwavey.gif

[Salmonchow]

Does this mean you're not doing Bash???...If so then I think the above members you mentioned along with myself would like to know so we can get it going now...I don't think we should let something like that just fall by the wayside...It's too important of a show/meet...I know I'm not on your list of responsible and dedicated Neco members and I can live with that but I have done more then my share for this club...I have meets...I have worked on a lot of members cars and I love the friends I have made...I'm afraid that the opinions of a few select members has made the ultimate decision for you to step down, and I think it's ashame...There's two sides to every story and I chose not to run to someone else telling mine instead I chose to try and work it out as an adult...I will miss you Murphy and all your hard work and dedication to the club...We will go on...Best of Luck

[Pinhy]

Murphy and Wendy, (and from here on out the word "murphy" means "murphy and wendy"

I am sorry to see you go. I have been here since Mar 2001 and now feel like one of the ones who has been here the longest (Erik isnt as active anymore, Mike(tsunamicougar) is gone, Rich(thundercat) is gone, James(ZeroFX) is gone) while James (bat), you, Allen (Guido) and Rob (Rob8100) are here....so i have some opinions here:

this club will never be like it was, especially if you leave - the reasoning is this...CHANGE!! we ARE the biggest chapter...with that comes lots of different personalities. those personalities are going to show up in posts and comments and at meets. i dont feel the chapter has gone "downhill" it has just "changed". we cant sit here and reflect and try to go back to when it was 5 members...we have to roll with the changes and keep it good in whatever way people (the people who are active) want. we have get togethers all the time here in tampa and lakeland. the only people i ever see at these things are Tampa/Lakeland members. No Orlando, no Gainesville no Sarasota (all within reach).

as i go around and look at topics that occur in other chapter folders, we are one of the tamest groups here! I remember a thread Michelle started a long time ago after getting here from Texas. It was titled something like "HEY PEOPLE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!" and made a statement that talked about how we were all pretty quiet and laid back here and werent talking enough (and she got scolded at if i remember correctly). We cant just come on here and talk about cars, we would have maybe 3 people interested in posting on a regular basis. Many other chapters have threads that need to be deleted and strikes issued, and we have never been there (though it may have looked like i was trying at times in the past :rofl: )

FL NECO has become more than a "car club"....it has become a social hangout to make friends with common interests. That is, in large, thanks to YOU murphy, and that is a GOOD thing!! I no longer care as much about the cars as i do the people. I want to ENJOY coming in here to post, and laugh at posts by some of the funny people (fred and shayne come to mind, along with myself if i do say so) and see what others that i call friends now are up to.

As for who is going to take over as President: i mean no offense to anyone on that list, but i dont see someone that will be able to do the job you have done (and no i am not saying i should be...cause i couldnt handle it either). I think each of the people on that list have the ability to do SOME of the things that need to be done, and have weaknesses that should keep them from being president.

Important factors:
availability (is school and/or work getting in the way?).
location: having our president in P-cola or Miami wont be very conducive to where the heart of the club is unless they are going to make a lot of trips to Central FL
dedication: who is here to just enjoy and who is here that could actually ORGANIZE and PROMOTE the club? who will WORK to get sponsors for shows..etc
online/active: i know Murphy wasnt really online that much and did the job, but i think being online chatting and at a lot of get togethers should be important (maybe that is why things have gotten "out of hand" for Murphy)

with those ideas running around in my head, i am thinking more along the lines of NO OFFICIAL at all? 2 moderators and and group of people enjoying their common interest. just a group of people doing car shows, mod meets, picnics, movies, parties...etc.

anyway....those are my ideas...sorry to see you step down Murphy, but really, aside from a couple big orlando meets, you were just another member too...one of the guys....A FRIEND that some of us came to visit once in a while and hang out, play some video games, watch some football, go to Universal with...etc.

thats all i have to say (and it was all meant positively and constructively, but i am sure someone will take this personal or read it with their mind made up about my comments before even reading it)

[Red2KCougar]

Lets just hope we don't fall apart :(

[caenus]

I'm flattered that my name was even mentioned in Morph's post, but I would never be able to help out that much. Too much going on right now. I won't mind running the website and manage that sort of thing if you need help in that area.

[Red2KCougar]

this club will never be like it was, especially if you leave - the reasoning is this...CHANGE!! we ARE the biggest chapter...with that comes lots of different personalities. those personalities are going to show up in posts and comments and at meets. i dont feel the chapter has gone "downhill" it has just "changed". we cant sit here and reflect and try to go back to when it was 5 members...we have to roll with the changes and keep it good in whatever way people (the people who are active) want. we have get togethers all the time here in tampa and lakeland. the only people i ever see at these things are Tampa/Lakeland members. No Orlando, no Gainesville no Sarasota (all within reach).

as i go around and look at topics that occur in other chapter folders, we are one of the tamest groups here! I remember a thread Michelle started a long time ago after getting here from Texas. It was titled something like "HEY PEOPLE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!" and made a statement that talked about how we were all pretty quiet and laid back here and werent talking enough (and she got scolded at if i remember correctly). We cant just come on here and talk about cars, we would have maybe 3 people interested in posting on a regular basis. Many other chapters have threads that need to be deleted and strikes issued, and we have never been there (though it may have looked like i was trying at times in the past

As for us from Gainesville not coming, its too far! Driving 2hrs there and 2hrs back for a 'Garage Sale' or a 'BBQ' is way out of the question. I only plan to come down for major meets. The only active people in my area are me and Chris(cougarbass). Tuy3n I havent heard from in i dont know when, Chris (Fly2215) I talk to a lot on AIM but he really isn't interested in the whole driving to the meet things anymore. Zach (zmgnole) sold his cougar, Chris(superman) no one hears from him anymore either. So its basically me and chris (cougarbass) that are interested in modding and being involved anymore. Driving to ORlando, much less Tampa 2 1/2hrs is really out of the question for both of us.

As for our chapter being tame, hell the F*ck yes we are. Go take a look at NorCal Neco... their entire chapter is filled with o/t and a few meet related threads. Maybe this really does show that Cali is a very liberal state.

Whatever... i'm done.

[Salmonchow]

Originally posted by: Red2KCougar
Lets just hope we don't fall apart :(

We're not going to "fall apart"...Soon as I get back from vacation I'm going to throw another BBQ/Poker/MOD meet...At least one a month!!!!!...You're not going to hear this from my mouth very often, if ever but I support what Doug had to say...In reality Tampa/Lakeland probably do more together then the entire Neco organization...And it's not just about our cars anymore...It's about movies, games, cookouts, and just being friends...Maybe we don't need a Commander in Chief...As far as I'm concerned if we have each other and keep doing what we're doing we'll be just fine...You guys are more then some people I met at a car show...You're the best group of friends I have ever had...This club will only "fall apart" if our friendships do...I understand I have made what seams to be a permanent enemy in this club and you know...I'm over it...It's all on that person now...We've all had our disagreements but we've all remand friends...This is only the beginning.

[AL]

Wow for as long as i have been a part of Fl Neco You have wanted to step down but I never thought you would
We are all sad to see this day come. I am honored by you thinking i am capable of running Fl neco. but at this time
I can not. I am in the middle of buying and selling a house and rising my twin boys. whit any one who has kids will know what i am going through. I know you will help any one who asks for help with Fl Neco, you are the father
of Flneco and we are all your kids. thanks for every thing you have done for us.
:cry:

[cougarbass99]

murphy, what ever happens man, i just want to give a huge thanx to you and wendy for everything you 2 have done for the club. this **** has changed my life and i've made some great friends and i've learned alot. you and wendy have done more for this club than all the rest of us combined ever would. im sorry to see you step down as president but you gotta do what ya gotta do. you did a great job and i'll never forget everything you and wendy did to make FL-NECO the best. :bowdown:

[Pinhy]

he is just stepping down as President....he didnt DIE or anything chris!! haha (although getting married could be considered a fate worse than death by some!! :cover: )

[Fett]

I would just like to say a few things....even though I am not an "active" member.

First off, to Murphy, and Wendy. I can't express how impressed I am, and how much I respect you and what you have done. I watched you build this community, from a few members who wanted to break apart from the old SouthEast NECO. You took those few members, and turned it into a real life community of friends. You organized some of the biggest events, second only to CougarFest. And you did it without the help from Ford.

So to you, I would like to thank you for your efforts, and for the things you have done for NECO, Florida, and Cougar owners in general.

On to the future....

I am going to go back to something that was mentioned the last time the "passing of the torch" was discussed. I still think there should be two presidents, or at least a President and a "Co-President". I think that it would be wise to have an official leader in South Florida. There are many many members down here, from the Treasure Coast to Miami. But there is no real leader. AL does a great job trying to get people together, and there is a few NECO members who get together on a regular basis. But for the most part, that's at a car show that takes place every weekend. Nothing super special.

One thing I notice about other Florida areas, especially the Tampa area...they are all friends. We always read about parties, garage sales, poker games, ect ect. Just everyday stuff, but a lot of members attend. I think this is something that South Florida could benefit from. Speaking only for myself, a weekend car show is not something I would go out of my way to attend. It ends up being the same old, same old. See the same cars, talk about each others cars...nothing special. But if there were cookouts, softball/baseball games, fishing trips, oil wrestling...er....you get the picture. I would be all over something like that.

I don't want anybody to think that I am trying to start a "Let's do what Chris wants" thing rolling. I just think that maybe South Florida could benefit from the Tampa community, and maybe things will start to happen.

Either way, I think AL would be a great leader...as he has shown a lot of interest in NECO, and a desire to take it to the next step.


Again, thank you Murphy for all you have done. Hopefully things will only get better and stronger, as a new leader steps in to fill your shoes...as difficult as it may be. :)

[THUNDERCAT2K]

Yeah i have to agree with everyone's posts. I have always been impressed by murphy and wendy's professionalism, and how they always had the best for us, wheter it be cougarbash, or the birthday party or even a meet at their house. It was never second rate, and I really respect that. I was pretty shocked myself by the news, becasue i wasn't expecting it this soon. When I got my car and met murphy, i was encouraged to cleanly mod my car, and he was the measuring stick i use. I really like hanging out with you guys, and you have done alot for me personally(like wendy and mike coming over my house to wax my car), and answering my many questiuons when i first started on this board. I also feel you have done alot for everyone i n this club to make ait a great place to belong to. The first courgar bash i was in awe at how well put together that show was, it still ranks as the best show i have been too out of the 20 or so i have entered. You will be missed as our president, but hopefully you will still contribute on here on a regular basis, and keep us laughing. You knowledge is very important since you built this club form 6 to 150 and never disappointed at any event you scheduled. I just want to say thanks, and what you did for us is not unappreciated.

As far as the president poisiton, i feel we still need someone in that role, especially at shows where the president is called upon to resolve disputes. There was one show we wouldn't have gotten any trophies if Murphy didn't speak up and protect the clubs integrity. I know I will not do as well as Murphy especially at first, but I would like to be considered for this position and step up to bat for flneco. AS far as availability, I have attended alot of shows representing FLNECO, and alot of times I was the only one there. I do have school but at night and on weekends, I would be available. I also have alot of connections and can not only continue existing sponsorships and such, but probaly get some new ones for meets, group discounts, and cougarbash prizes. I would also be open to anyone's suggestines. adn will try my best to make it easy for everyone to talk with me if needed. I was honored to be mentioned in murphy's post, but i do feel like I would be able to handle the responsibility of being president of flneco. I have no major things going on, and I already actively promote the club, I would just take it a up a notch, and probably continue to try and recruit new memebers. I know i can not replace murphy, and i am not trying too, but I am really interested in making this the best chapter in NECO, and a place where you can be proud to say you are a member. I want to maintain the status quo, but I would also like to try get some ideas to improve flneco. Thanks again murphy and wendy.

I would not be oposed to a president and co president for south florida. AL would be a good choice, but I don't know if he wants to do it.

[Ness1216]

Murphy Im sorry to see you stepping down from what little I have known you, you have had great organization at all your events and made them a blast to go to. I always thought that there must be a lot of responsibility doing all that work and you handled it very well. Please stay a very active member in flneco though without being president. Hate to see ya stepping down.

Matt

[Loyalty]

As Jon said, I appreciate being listed in the "chosen ones" :rofl: My opinions for the future of FLNECO....I feel that we should have a person (call it a "president" if you will) who should organize the major events, such as Bash, etc..... I would agree with the point about having it as someone who is more centralized in the state just because that is fair to the people who want to attend these events, be it people in the North or the South part of the state.

To the comment basically saying "just our friendships keeping FLNECO together"....as far as the club itself goes, I would have to disagree with that. There needs to be some organization with in FLNECO, and as a "group" of people....thats almost impossible. As I always have said, I consider all of FLNECO friends....but when we all try to put input (in the future, in event planning) we get so many ideas and suggestions that its just a cluster F'k of things.

Another suggestion if I may....what about a "board of advisors" :shrug: ....basically a certain number of people (2 or 3 for example) that work TOGETHER in order to organize things. I think we all know how much Wendy has done for FLNECO....and I for one, would hate to have to fill those shoes by myself and with out any help.

Speaking about the comment, about us "falling apart." I don't think we will fall apart as friends without a president, BUT I do think that if we do not have a structured leadership with in the club then the "club" WILL fall apart.


....I think thats basically all I have to say about that for now.......

One quick question...as far as "electing" whatever we end up "electing" for....how does that work? I heard that when FLNECO was originally developed, that there was an "election" for Murphy to become the president.....just kinda curious about it :shrug:

[THUNDERCAT2K]

chris that is interesting, i still like the t people idea i posted earlier, but i think a group of 4 would be great 2 from south fl 2 from central/'north, to organize meets bash etc. everyone has equal power and such, i do think we need some type of structure to keep the "club" portion of flneco going.s i will say it is hard when you have four people with different view points, but i would also still be up for an election, and go from there. we would need one for president and maybe the mod positon, to even out the power

[Shiva]

wow this is so sad, You & Wendy are great and I hope you change your minds or at least still plan to participate in meets & FL NECO. FL NECO is a lot tamer than other chapters & one of things we took into consideration when deciding on where we wanted to move to from MD, we knew that FL NECO was a community of friendships & car meets, not just constant backstabbing & high school prep club drama crap & a lost of the other bickering that goes on in other clubs. I do fear for how FL NECO will be able to hold itself together as I don't think anyone can do as good a job as You & Wendy!!!! :( I know sometimes things have gotten a little out of hand but that's to be expected in any form of life, nothing is simple/predictable/100% stable, but it doesn't take long for the club to get over the bumps in the road and it makes the club/friendships stronger. I've been away a lot lately with my brother in law in town & working a lot of ot so I haven't been around for whatever has brought this on but I'm sure that who ever is involved will cool down & realise the good friendships they've made & everything will smooth over, even the best of friends have fall outs but still come back to being friends...ah well enough of my rambling I'm just hoping You & Wendy will change your mind.

If not, I think the best thing to do would be to have a council of members elected:

1. website manager
2. treasurer who would also handle the store
3. meet organizer (1 north/1 central/1 south)
4. chapter mod (someone who doesn't post much but is always on watching...in other words someone who doesn't get involved in any drama...and I don't mean anything against anyone when I say that)
5. Murphy/Wendy president ;) , maybe breaking down some of the responsibilities will make it more stressfree & enjoyable to stay on as Presidente.

it may seam like to many chiefs but we have a little of indians :tongue:

[BatCougar]

Ok well now it is my turn.......

First I must say that Murphy and Wendy have been two of the greatest people I have met in my life thus far. Over 2 1/2 years ago I got Murphy's number off of the boards, I wanted to do some mods but had no idea where to start. So I called up Murphy and he just said why don't you just come down and hang out here, we can work on some mods and play video games whatever....So without meeting or knowing him at all I went to Orlando and we did a couple small things to my brand new cougar. From there we had one of the first (actually the second or third) meet. At the AutoX in O-Town. It was from there that the 5 of us decided to break away from South east Neco and become our own little chapter. Little did we know that as soon as we were our own chapter we had 25 members. From there it has been all uphill. I didn't know that just because I bought a Car off the lot at a local car dealership that it would come with the friends that I have met on the boards and thru meets, etc. Murphy and Wendy I can't thank you enough for what you did for this club, I have the utmost respect for you guys!! I wish that it hadn't come to this, sometimes it really sucks that a few people always seem to ruin it for everyone. But there are times in peoples lives that they have to do what they have to do, I would hope that we all resolve any problems there were and you will consider helping out on decisions that we try to make as a group. I also than you for mentioning me as one that you would be willing to pass the torch to and here is my suggestions.

With that said here I go:

At this point I would have to agree with doug and fred (holy sh!$ I guess it had to happen eventually), that maybe an ultimate "commander and cheif" isn't the way to go. But I also would like to know if we take a lot of the responsibility off of your shoulders if you would reconsider and stay around for maybe just organizing bash and the birthday party, or maybe just bash, I can't see those with out you guys.

I also liked the "SMALL" board of directors 2-3 people that know the boards and know the people and know what is invloved. So here is what I think:
1. website manager/treasurer who would also handle the store (on board of directors)
2. meet organizer (1 central/1 south)
3. chapter mod (someone who doesn't post much but is always on watching...in other words someone who doesn't get involved in any drama...and I don't mean anything against anyone when I say that) (On board of directors)
4. Murphy/Wendy president , maybe breaking down some of the responsibilities will make it more stressfree & enjoyable to stay on as President. (On board of directors)

If murphy and wendy do not want president no matter what then an election could be held and it seems that a Thundercat has a big interest as well as the ways and meens to handle it.

I would also like to say that although I don't have the time or connections to be the president (school, work, and president of a couple college organizations) I am on the boards enough to be a moderator and would like to be considered for that.

I would also like to say that as fred said, the best group of friends I have, I have met here. I don't consider this a car club as much as I do a group of my closest friends. I know that I as well as many of you could call on any of us at anytime and get anything that you needed. It just blows that what started out as a car club became what it is today. And when the people that are around me see that my "car club" is such a good group of friends they change their stereotypical thinking of a car club and see that it is way more than that. And Murphy and Wendy are the two people that I can thank for that.

I hope that we can get this resolved in the very organized and tame way that we always handle things. And maybe just maybe we can keep you two around just a little longer. If not then I really hope you will stay involved and I know that we will never surpase what you have created, but I hope that we can live up to what we have become!!!!!!

[BigCountry]

Well, I don't normally post much on the FL board, other than acknowledging attendance at meets, but Murphy and Wendy deserve all of our respect. You guys have led this organization with the highest distinction. As a leader of several organizations at school, I understand the strain put on you by disagreeing members, and the general way you are personally represented by the actions of your fellow members. I have no idea what all issues have come up, as I do not frequent the board often, so please don't anyone take this as judgement, because i have no idea the issues that happen behind the seen, but I know how difficult conflict resolution can be. I have been the head of the largest service philanthropy on campus for the last year and a half, and I actually stepped down earlier this week due to the stress and workload, so i am all too familiar with the thought process of stepping down from the helm of something you have built with your heart and soul.

That being said, I am sad to see you step down, but as long as you guys are still around, that is all that matters. From the first time i met you guys, you open up your home to me, and since i have been at school, i always look forward to coming home to hang out with you guys. As most of the people who know me on here know, i could pretty much care less about my car anymore. I have surely taken dirtiest car awards at meets and shows many times. I come back now for the friends.

You guys showed me that you can be friends with total strangers you meet on the internet. Accordingly, I have made new friends from around the US. A month ago I drove to Tampa just to hang out. Not for a show or meet, just to hang out, and I had a great time. You are ambassadors for the automobile community. I have found in my travels that car enthusiasts are generally good people, and that says something about us all, but I owe much of this knowledge to 2 of the best. Thanks Murphy and Wendy. I look forward to seeing you guys in a few months, happily married, and if you are driving up to Philly, feel free to stop by on the way.

[wjwolf79]

although I'm a noob, in terms, and I haven't meet any of the other members as of yet, I can offer advice on the governing of the club

**disclamer** I use the mascluine tense of words to mean people in general, as any of these positions may be held by a man or woman.

a president is needed, not as a person to do all the work, but mostly to be the spokesman for the club. This is the person who makes the contacts with sponsors and such. If the president wants to get involved in others aspects of running the club, that is his choice.

The idea of splitting the responsibilities is good, and probably should have been done awhile ago, if Morph has been doing it all this time. It's a lot of work for one person to do.

A commitee should be formed to organize meets and events (such as the Bash), probably of about 5-6 people. This would include the president (as he is the one who contacts potential sponsors).

A web manager, who updates the FLNECO homepage. This would be best to be someone who is apt at writting/designing web sites. Designing and maintaining a web site is alot of work (and making it a good website) and I do not think this position should be combined with the store manager.

A store manager who handles the requests for orders for our merchandies.

A group of moderators who are all in agreemet of what type of conduct is appropriate and what is not. These people need to be responsible and mature, and not get involved in inappropriate conduct on the forums themselves. These people will be responsible for letting members know that a comment or post was inappropirate and ask them to refrain from doing such things. They can delete inappropriate posts or edit an inappropriate comment in a post. A couple of examples of such things would be blantent sexual comments, flitering with other members (I myself am guilty of this), bashing other members (if you have a problem with someone, send them a pm or email, work it out with each other and don't get the rest of us involved).

that's my 2cents worth

edit: and Morph, from what it seems, you have done a great job. I do not think that you stepping down will solve the problem, just restructiong the organization should help. My suggestion is to stay as the president, but reorganize as has been suggested by a few others. If after some time you still feel like you cannot stay as the president, then you could step down. But at least see if some changes could help.

[Loyalty]

I would have to disagree with the comments about having a Mod that doesn't post that much. Just because someone posts alot (take myself for example) doesn't mean that they are in any "drama" that happens around here. If you look at Mods in general throughout NECO, most of them are online, and actually do post quite a bit.

Now that those that have been mentioned in the list of "candidates" have expressed there honest opinions about the "position" available, I didn't really want to say anything on the boards, seems weird to be taking something from someone else that they've helped build from the ground up...but I'll give my opinion... I thought about the "Board of Directors" thing that I had recommended before and would now have to disagree with what I had originally said. First off, there is really no need to "appoint "someone that organizes meets because everyone posts about having meets as they have time at their house, when a few people express interest in getting together, etc.

Having a number of people "appointed" to plan things in central and south Florida seems to be a bit too much. As it stands right now we have "coordinators," and not to step on anybodys toes....but what purpose do they really serve??? :shrug: I think that only proves that we do not have a need a group of people appointed. To be honest, although we have 150 members registered on flneco.com....we have to take a long look at how many active members we have. I do not think we have more than 20 people that post on the boards and attend meets. We are now saying that we are going to take 4 or 5 of these people and give them a "title." What for? Will that change the way things normally flow on the boards....will it change people randomly posting to have a meet? I honestly just don't think it would serve a purpose. It seems to make more sense to just let everybody continue to do their thing and maybe have someone in a position to plan the larger events should Murphy & Wendy decide that Bash & the birthday party are not something they want to continue to host. Should the elected person need any type of help, I am sure members would step up as they have in the past to volunteer any help they could.

I would not be opposed to stepping up to the position of "President" and would actually be quite honored to do it. Since I have joined I feel like I have taken a huge interest in this club, the members, and in meets, both local, and national. I don't think I have had any confrontations and tend to stay neutral when debates arise between other members, while at the same time trying to get them to work out the issues that they have........which does not happen very often around here. I do think something needs to be said about the "drama." Personally, I don't really think we have any "drama" and everybody mentions it like we are always at each others throats. We have fights and pick on each other like brothers and sisters but I don't think I would carry that over as far to say that we have "drama" around here. People do get mad every once in a while, feelings get hurt, and some things get misinterpreted but I think all and all we do get along for the most part and it is important when someone DOES get mad to try to understand why...and what needs to be done to fix it if anything can be done...and to just hang back because like the Florida weather, it tends to blow over after a while.
I do think it would be in the groups best interest to have someone that hasn't really had any problems, even minor...with anyone else.

I guess that is all I can think of right now...I guess if it comes down to an "election" than I would like to be in the running. :thumbsup:

[Nemesis]

I elect Shayne! :rofl:

[THUNDERCAT2K]

unfortunately, if you have people wanting to be removed from their flneco affiliation, i would have to say that is pretty intense. There has been more than one request, so I think that might be seen as a problem. We just need to be sensitve to others on here sometimes, and like you said things probably won't get out of hand. As moderator I am going to keep flneco as it is, but if things get out of hand, i will step in if need be but i am going to remain neutral. Recently is probably the most I have seen, but it got to the point that murphy felt he couldn't control it by himself. I am still trying to find out if murphy would consider staying on but giving up alot of the responsibilities. If not the election sounds like the best idea. Whoever is elected I know we won't fall apart, but like I said sponsors don't want to work with 5 people, but one main person. I will say that regardless of who is elected as president I am staying on as the other moderator and if we do divide up the club responsibilities I am ok with that, as long as whoever takes on the responsibility does what they say they will.

[Morph]

Thanks for the support Wayne, I apologize that you and our recent surge of new members are seeing all the recent events and turmoil as your first impression of what really is a great organization.

Thanks to everyone for the kind words, its hard for me to step aside but I think a lot of people would prefer a new system anyway. And I really think its great that so many of you are getting involved and offering your input and interest in the future of the club. I know some people may still be looking to me for what to do next, but what I see going on here is good, look to yourselves and have discussions about what you as members want from eachother and the club.

Wendy and I are not leaving Florida NECO, we love it too much. But I do feel its important that we step aside for a little while and allow the members to decide what they really want without having to worry about our influence. Regarding Bash, Fred... I know you and Jason have long expressed an interest in it and if you want it, its yours. Regarding flneco.com, I can continue to manage it for the time being unless someone else would really like to maintain or redo it. The reason I offered to continue to maintain the merchandise orders is because I have local shops processing them, to have them re-set up at new shops would cost the club or whoever takes over more set up fees. But if someone wants that also, I certainly wouldn't mind giving it up.

I know it seems like the recent events here are the main cause of my decision, but although they were part of it, there are a lot of other things going on that no one even sees and cannot be discussed here. I will share that information with whatever new club leader(s) is/are chosen becuase it is pertinent to the future of the club.

This is an incredible club and I want to say thank you to everyone for making it incredible through your interest and participation. That continued participation is what will determine what lies ahead for Florida NECO.

[Pinhy]

After reading everyones comments, I am going to reitterate and express some more thought;

We really dont need any positions of power (whether that be presidents or a board). Like a couple people have said, we organize meets that are both social and car show related without the position of president ever having anything to do with it. Lets just say, for example, that we dont have one yet we still want Bash to happen: two or three people say "lets organize this thing" and they do it....why does it have to be the person who is president? What i think would be best is 2 moderators for the boards to help keep things clean (Jason and someone else) and then a couple people that will just say "hey, i'll start organizing stuff for my area" (BatCougar for North, Loyalty or Thundercat2002 for Central, AL for South) for example.

HOWEVER, IF we all decide as a group for a "position of power" i still say it should be from central fl and it should be someone who comes to a lot of meets and goes to FEST to represent FL NECO, i think that would be a positive change that FL NECO has not had in the past. With that said, my vote would go to Chris (loyalty). He HAS been there at damn near everything that goes on here in tampa, lakeland and orlando. He HAS gone to FEST and will continue i am sure. PLUS he has a good group of Tampa members within a few miles to get together with and discuss plans and get help with organization. We all hope Michelle (Sunni) will come back to us, and then the Chris/Michelle team will be a good one, just like the Murphy/Wendy team has been so good in the past.

OK...Im done. Lemme just say this is a GREAT thread with a lot of great ideas being put in by all the members who have posted. I hope we can all continue to see this as a democracy and keep it a good club.

[RiceRanger666]

:cry: its becuz i finally got a mod on my car isn't it? :cry: :wave: :) anyway. as doug and others have said, i believe the new "president and/or event organizer" should be from the central FL area. i know as a CapitalNeco member that my opinion doesnt matter much. but i feel that the meets and shows ive went to with the FL crew has given me the right to throw my 2cents in. Long live FL Neco.:thumbsup:

[Salmonchow]

You guys quit trying to talk him out of leaving...The man's obviously sick and tired of all your crap...LOL...Honestly, if he steps down we're going to have a lot more fun hanging out with him...Think about our countries last president...Can you imagine all the crap he's getting into now that he's not responsible anymore???...Murphy needs to let his hair down...While he still has some...:rofl:...Pal, we love you and all the work you've done but it's time to put you out too stud before we have to shoot you...lol...Guess you know me by now..I can't keep anything serious for very long...Some of these posts started sounding like your funeral...Anyway...Hope you can make my next BBQ/Poker/Mod Meet...You'll have a blast as a regular member...Much Love

Fred

[Sunni]

I have decided to break my vow of silence ;)


I am with the whole of the group with sayin I am sad to see Murphy step down from his role of President...while I don't think anybody knows exactly why or what type of things he has had to deal with behind the public boards.....I feel he and Wendy are leaving big shoes to fill.

I think there are a few things that are being overlooked and need to be addressed:


Between maintaining and paying for the website

This is the first I have heard about money being needed to help out. I think as a group we need to find out what costs are incurred and figure out a way to divide them up so that the burden is not being placed on one person. I had no idea that Murphy & Wendy were paying out of pocket to maintain the website and I don't think this is right....do ya'll????


putting with anti-Bash conspiracies

You nor Florida NECO has any reason to apologize for the success of CougarBash. Several other chapters have put something local together...some have succeeded and some have failed, but none other than Bash have had to deal with criticism from outsiders simply because they surpassed what people thought, gotten incredible sponsors and raffles, and had a turnout that grows every year. You have done an excellent job with Bash and should not have to put up with jealously within the national club because you succeeded where many others have failed.



Now, on a personal note I will give my opinion in other areas and hopefully try to clear some things up...

I did speak out not too long ago on the direction I saw a lot of the posts in this chapter going. I did not feel I was expecting too much, I was simply asking people to take a look at what was being posted and to remember that not everyone appreciates the posts, pictures, comments, etc. I felt as a member of the club I had a right to let people know when something was offending me.......and I honestly felt that people would understand where I was coming from and respect that. The reaction I got was about 50/50 and for some reason it bothered me tremendously that some members would continue to make posts commenting towards me, make avatars to spite me, and continue to make me out to be someone that whines, complains, acts motherly and overreacts in general...I felt this was blown completely out of proportion. Yet I wasn't able to drop it because every day it seemed there was a new comment or a new avatar that in essence...made fun of me or my opinion. I tend to expect more from friends than that. I would never take something a "friend" had told me bothered them, and keep it going as an "Anti Sunni" campaign. I made, what was to me a difficult decision to be removed as an active member from the flneco website due to the fact that I was more involved in this club for the friendships I had made, as opposed to the car club activities and shows and I began to question all of the friendships that I thought I had made, mainly due to the fact that I felt like one of my closest friendships had just been questioned. I know that as a female in a mans world of cars that some things I may not understand and let them slide....to be honest this is something I expect...boys will be boys I thought. And it does take alot to offend me with comments or sexual innuendo or pictures......but I thought "enough is enough." I am a member here too and I participate so I thought I had a right to speak up about something that bothered me. I have missed posting, missed attending meets, and missed hanging out with everybody. So I guess with this, I am sorry if my request offended many of you, that was not how I intended it at all. I was not trying to be ya'lls Mom.



I think as a whole, Florida Neco doesn't really need one specific person appointed to run meets. Almost all members at one time or another have gotten something pulled together for a meet. I think the Tampa area is a bit luckier in the aspect of so many people are close, so we are able to get together much more frequently and have a good turnout than other areas. Of course if it came down to it I would support Chris as President. I think he is still enthusiastic about meets and his car that he seems to have more zest for it than anybody else and he is very proud of being a part of NECO. I know a lot of people may question my support of him since we live together but I think what most people don't realize is that Chris is his own person. What I feel or think about something on the boards does not make him change his mind. If any of yall know us, we don't agree on anything for the most part anyways :rofl: He does not take sides and leaves me to fight my own battles with problems I encounter with people on the boards...his only advised to me was to work it out. He saw that it bothered me not being able to post or attend gatherings...I even told him to get a group together this past Sunday to do something and his first comment was "Why, so you can go?" then laughed because he knew thats really what I was saying...I wanted to hang out. He knows I want to be involved but that I am stubborn sometimes. But he is not biased, he does not just jump in and take my side because he is around me all the time. And he does go to meets even if I say I am not attending since I am no longer a member. As far as a board of directors, I honestly think that would be a waste. I don't think we need to appoint people in the surrounding area to plan something. If someone took it upon themselves to contact Murphy and say "Hey, the website needs some help and could be updated, etc" I think that would be great. As Chris said, we have 150 "members" but how many are REALLY members? I don't think that someone who signed up 14 months ago and never posted, never posted and never went to meets should have the honor of saying they are a member of this community. I know it may suck.....but are we really the largest chapter? Or do we just happen to have more people that stumble across the flneco site and say "that sounds cool, here is my email" only never to be heard from again? I would rather have a decent size of ACTIVE members, as opposed to 150....only of which 10% are active or really know what the club is about.

I cant see many if any changes that need to be made. From what I understand (even though I may have been the only one that expressed my opinion) there were a few members that did not like what was being posted. I would imagine that we need someone that is actually logged onto the boards to catch when things get out of hand so that we do not offend anyone else, thus reducing the amount of complaints a President would receive as to the content of the posts. However...I do not think this happens very often. I cant think of any other time that posts got really carried away (in my eyes anyway)



I cant really see much changing with the way this club runs....if we have a new "President" we have a new President. I think the activity of everybody that is on the boards is great...I don't think we need to have people in charge of every little thing that goes on. As a whole, we ARE a very tame group...yet unlike most chapters we are lucky to have a close bond that extends beyond a car club...and no matter how mad I get or what I say it IS because of friendships that have formed here and extended to every day life. Like most, a meet isn't a group of car club people, it is friends hanging out. If there are larger occasions where extreme planning needs to be done I can understand that. I think a good President wouldn't try to take that on alone, and whoever we choose I think they can go into it knowing that they have the help and support of all other members of the boards should they need it. I have never seen a time when members did not offer any and all type of help that they could and the new President would have the backing of many people doing nothing but trying to forward the club as a whole and the backing of people that truly believed in what that person was doing and supporting and helping that person.........and THAT is what makes this "club" different.


I know it is a lot of reading....but screw you, I haven't posted in over a week ;)

Fred, you piece of $hit, I love you....quit being mean to me, I am sorry if you thought I overstepped my boundries :kick::kiss: ;)


Sunni :)

[Salmonchow]

I love you too, you Skank...lol...Listen...Here's the deal...The only reason it went as far as it did is neither of us respected the others opinion...That's all we gotta do from now on...We don't have to agree but we can both handle it different next time. :)

Anyone want to buy a bunch of kerosene???...I'm not going to set her car on fire now, so I have extra!!!!:rofl:

[Pinhy]

awwwww....i have a tear in my eyes...you guys are making me cry!!!

:rofl:

[THUNDERCAT2K]

I think it is going to be pretty hard to have a fair election process for a president, since most will automatically vote for who they know or hang out with. We have to find a way around that, I think the 2-4 person council idea would be the fairest, if everyone has equal power, if the others are busy(or in other psarts of the state) you still have someone who can make decisions, speak on behalf of the club at car shows, and talk to sponsors to get items for events. I nreality since we would probably have only like 12 people voting, whoever is elected would not really be a true representaion of flneco's 150 registered memebers. I think i am changing over to the council idea, it might even be easier having a small group concentrating on certain areas in stead of one person.

[Sunni]

Jason, I hate to say it...but I disagree.


First off, I think peoples activity, actions, board participation and club involvement over the last few months will come into play in most peoples voting process, should it come down to having to elect a new President.


And I don't think most people will vote for "who the hang out with the most"....Personally, I stated my opinion so that people would know WHY, if it came down it that I would vote for Chris and not just with the impression of "oh, well...thats her roommate." I feel as though Chris has attended almost every meet in Tampa and the surrounding area, had ideas for meets, helped others....attended Bash...attended Fest...is active on the boards, is enthusiastic about promoting & is only a member of Florida Neco.....and ONLY promotes Florida NECO, not other car clubs....which I think is important. Chris is still very very excited about his car, the ideas he has for it, etc....and I think that makes a difference....I think his "newness" is a breath of fresh air really...as opposed to most of us who have not made any changes to their car in a while.....He really is a person that is thrilled to be where he is, proud of his car & the people affiliated with what his car club represents...he is someone that most people tend to like at a first meeting, makes a good impression, and is a good person that holds no "ill will" towards others. He is proud of his car, yet at the same time proud of fellow members who he thinks have a better looking car, and wishes them well should they be against him in a show. All and all he is a great person, and I know that most, if not everybody that meets him can see that. I am not saying the same is not true for you, aI am just stating in my opinion why he is qualified. :)

You are right, we will end up having a very small group of people that will vote, however I believe that no matter how small, the majority should rule. I think most are grown up enough to still have a fair election process, and to be honest I think that having numerous members standing and speaking on behalf of Florida NECO will only cause conflict..........especially if they are in disagreement on certain things. No one person can have everybody backing them so to assume that we can have numerous members representing us as a spokesperson and as a whole ....and agreeing on everything....is a bit much to ask.

I think we should do as what has been proven to work...and if we can not agree on the idea of having a board of advisors, I think we should elect someone who we feel would represent our ideas, values and thoughts as a group.........thus, a President ;)

[Ness1216]

Just to let everyone know, I love my car, ask anyone I talk to all I talk about is Cougars and I plan on being in Neco for a long time actually owning a cougar. I dont know what I am saying this but I guess Im saying you are stuck with me so never worry about losing me as a member. hehe sorry. Anyways I plan on getting the most possible out of my inline 4 and my cougars looks and we need a good person to take over. Murphy has made up his decision and we need to actually think it through and elect someone to be president. Anyways someone should publosh this thread as a book, So much reading makes my brain hurt!

Matt

[tampamoney]

I love you guys:grouphug: Oh ya I still have more payments left on my car. So I'll be a member of NECO for a long time.:thumbsup:

[RedThunder]

Murphy and Wendy thank you for all your dedication. It was great.

[wjwolf79]

Originally posted by: tampamoney
I love you guys:grouphug: Oh ya I still have more payments left on my car. So I'll be a member of NECO for a long time.:thumbsup:

lol, dito (I've only made like 13 out of 60, so I've got a ways to go)

[Loyalty]

I think we should settle this on our own guys....Murphy wants to relieve his power, and as has been said before, I'm sure that he has his reasons. Theres no need to pressure him into responsibilities that he may not have the time, or energy for that matter, anymore. I originally thought the "board" thing was gonna be the way to go...but like I posted, after thinking about it...its almost just giving a little power to everyone (well of course not EVERYONE) But it's still a cluster F of ideas that, as I said to Murphy, will just have us "spinning our tires" when it comes to organizing things.

To the few people that have expressed their support for me to step up and fill a HUGE role, I appreciate it. I think Michelle hit it right on the head, as to why I think I'm a very capable "president." I have basically been to, or helped organize almost every meet since I have joined NECO, including Bash, and Fest....Even back in the day when my car was busted up I was attending meets :rofl: I haven't been in any confrontations with any members that I can remember off hand, and if anything, I have been trying to help those that WERE in confrontations get their differences settled quickly.

To comment about the "fair" election.... I think we're all grown ups here for the most part, and I think we all can see how much this affects every member here that is active in the club. I for one will be voting for the person who I feel will keep the best interest for the CLUB, not as a "popularity," or "friendship" contest. I for one would tell someone NOT to vote for me and would have immediately crossed my name off that list, if I felt I couldn't handle the responsibilities of the role......

[8BaLL]

I agree with Matt, my brain hurts reading all this :rofl:

Im just gonna stay outta this on the board... Since im not a really "member" and my input wouldn't matter anyway...
I have my opinions about this and all but i'll voice them in person for those that wanna here um, lol... Ttown baby!! :smoke-t:


Murphy - Wendy, you two have done excellent job with everything and you guys rock!!! If ya need help with anything, you know im down!!! Hope ya'll still hangout and do meets now!! :thumbsup:

[Shiva]

My feelings:

Unless we can elect someone who can do everything Wendy & Murphy have & can do (to include web design/setup & etc...) I really think that we should break up the responsibilities a little. Wendy & Murphy are stepping down because even as a couple it got to be a lot (even though they also have other reasons). Simply electing one person as president or letting the chapter go without any type of organization won't get things done. There needs to be someone to maintain the website, in the north/south there needs to be more organization to get meets planned, I've read where they have members who would like to get together but they have no organization there to get things going, we need at least 2 people to mod the boards, we need someone to plan the big events such as bash. NO ONE NEEDS TO HAVE A TITLE so there is no arguing over who has "POWER" since that seems to be an issue with some.

I definitely agree with Michelle on we should all chip in for the website. This can easily be done by setting up a paypal for flneco (if not already done). It can be on a volunteer basis so that no one feels pressured into donating but hopefully would since they are part of this club and you can donate all year long, if we each donated a $1 a month that would probably be a big help and no one can complain about a $1 because how can you miss $1. Then the money just sits there to be transferred once a year to the website company for payment.

So in short since Wendy & Murphy definately are stepping down I would say lets not have a president: 1. it'll cause to much conflict & trouble in electing someone & 2. not really a point to having one as we just need a couple skilled people to handle a few things that can't be done on their own such as:

1. website manager - it won't stay current by itself & we should give Murphy & Wendy a break unless they really want to keep that responsibility

2. treasurer who would also handle the store - this should probably stay as Murphy & Wendy since they already have the contacts set up

3. meet organizer/event organizer (1 north/1 central/1 south) - Central might not need the help but the north & south have members who want to have meets but just can't seem to get things together, no motivation = need someone motivated to plan something & that will get members interested in being involved. These 2/3 members would also be the ones to plan Bash & Birthday North & Birthday South.

4. chapter mod - at least 2 that way one is always on so we would need someone who can be on during the day & someone on during the night...instead of my previously saying someone who doesn't post much what I meant was someone who doesn't get involved in the drama hence my saying "in other words someone who doesn't get involved in any drama"...and I don't mean anything against anyone when I say that)

It might seem like a lot of people but it's not since If the right chapter mods are chosen they could also be the meet/event organizers, website manager. These are the 4 areas of responsibility that need to have someone devoted to them and we should have at least 2/3 people devoted. I think most agree so far from reading the posts. Of course it has been a lot to read, lol.

[rob8100]

WOW!!!! That took me an hour and 6 mins to read!!! I actually called Murphy and asked him if he could give me the jist of it and he said, "you just have to read it ALL!!". First I want to give a big thanks to Murph and Wendy!!! THANKS!!! I will continue to give thanks to them for there future hospitality and jokes and fun times. Thanks to Fett for giving the Tampa area people props, we appreciate it. I was told by James (batcoug) that I NEEDED to get on the boards and read this post and put my half a penny worth of sense to this post. So I will!!!

I can remember when I first joined this club and it was only 4 people large!! Within 6 months of that, its size had tripled or quadrupled....(something like that) and now look at it!! Im not he guy to get in to arguments with any one, as you know i just like to have fun, make fun of people (just in good fun), and get made fun of (like my imaginary girlfriend, my drunk phone calls to other peoples girlfriends, my constantly growing belly, and my goofyness!!!). From my point I think everyone contributes to this club in thier own way even if it is being the Mom of the group or being the neutral guy in all the post or the person who puts up the money for the website or the person who moderates the boards and even to the person who joins FLNECO and never post (yes they do contribute because everyone like to say they are part of the the largest NECO chapter with 150 or so members). We are also going to have members that can only have a limited participation due to where the hearts of the club are (Central and South Florida). I thnk we should just orginze a meet in the areas or a neutral area between the two areas of intrest so we can turn a 2 hour trip into an hour trip or a 4 hour trip into a 2 hour trip. I also think we are a tame group on the boards but we all know we are WILD people once we get a good meet together!!! All the grudges or mini battles that go on in this club are mostly just battles of opinion, like someone said the Florida weather is always changing and it will eventually blow over. Also FLNECO IS NOT GOING TO FALL APART!!!

Now my thinking on the orginizational process:

I think we dont really need a BIG DOGG of flneco.
I think we need 2 moderators and thats all. (think the 2 moderators should be Thundercat and AL) Murph can be one too if he still wants.
IF we end up having to vote for a pres. it should be between Chris and Jason...the only people who have shown intrest in the spot.
I think Murph and Wendy keep the Store stuff like they said.
If Murph and Wendy dont want to keep paying for the web page and no one else doesnt want to pay for it or host it then we dont need to have it. We dont live by flneco.com
We have enough memebers on here to keep us informed on carshows and events.
We have enough party people here to host parties and meets and cook outs.
On the topic of Cougarbash and the birthday, i have a feeling Murph and Wendy will probably have there had in helping out and getting contacts. (They have done the birthday party and Cougarbash 2 times so i am sure they can inform someone how to set every thing up and when to start setting it up.)

I think that covers everything...by the way a thanks for the nomination Murph on the big spot. Also thanks to everyone commenting of the Tampa area guys. Our group doesnt mind traveling to parties in other Florida cities as long as we have some cars to look at or mod and a few drinks to have and a place to crash if need be!!!!!

Thanks

Rob D

P.S. This message took me 56 mins to write after reading it over and seeing if it makes any type of sense!! ( i know some ones going to say im a slow reader or typer but its neither, I just put a lot of thought into this post and trying to get everyones opion coverd.)

[Loyalty]

Is it just me or does Rob's post keep disapearin :shrug:

[Pinhy]

just you.... :shrug:

Here is ROB's post for those who cant see it:

Originally posted by: rob8100
WOW!!!! That took me an hour and 6 mins to read!!! I actually called Murphy and asked him if he could give me the jist of it and he said, "you just have to read it ALL!!". First I want to give a big thanks to Murph and Wendy!!! THANKS!!! I will continue to give thanks to them for there future hospitality and jokes and fun times. Thanks to Fett for giving the Tampa area people props, we appreciate it. I was told by James (batcoug) that I NEEDED to get on the boards and read this post and put my half a penny worth of sense to this post. So I will!!!

I can remember when I first joined this club and it was only 4 people large!! Within 6 months of that, its size had tripled or quadrupled....(something like that) and now look at it!! Im not he guy to get in to arguments with any one, as you know i just like to have fun, make fun of people (just in good fun), and get made fun of (like my imaginary girlfriend, my drunk phone calls to other peoples girlfriends, my constantly growing belly, and my goofyness!!!). From my point I think everyone contributes to this club in thier own way even if it is being the Mom of the group or being the neutral guy in all the post or the person who puts up the money for the website or the person who moderates the boards and even to the person who joins FLNECO and never post (yes they do contribute because everyone like to say they are part of the the largest NECO chapter with 150 or so members). We are also going to have members that can only have a limited participation due to where the hearts of the club are (Central and South Florida). I thnk we should just orginze a meet in the areas or a neutral area between the two areas of intrest so we can turn a 2 hour trip into an hour trip or a 4 hour trip into a 2 hour trip. I also think we are a tame group on the boards but we all know we are WILD people once we get a good meet together!!! All the grudges or mini battles that go on in this club are mostly just battles of opinion, like someone said the Florida weather is always changing and it will eventually blow over. Also FLNECO IS NOT GOING TO FALL APART!!!

Now my thinking on the orginizational process:

I think we dont really need a BIG DOGG of flneco.
I think we need 2 moderators and thats all. (think the 2 moderators should be Thundercat and AL) Murph can be one too if he still wants.
IF we end up having to vote for a pres. it should be between Chris and Jason...the only people who have shown intrest in the spot.
I think Murph and Wendy keep the Store stuff like they said.
If Murph and Wendy dont want to keep paying for the web page and no one else doesnt want to pay for it or host it then we dont need to have it. We dont live by flneco.com
We have enough memebers on here to keep us informed on carshows and events.
We have enough party people here to host parties and meets and cook outs.
On the topic of Cougarbash and the birthday, i have a feeling Murph and Wendy will probably have there had in helping out and getting contacts. (They have done the birthday party and Cougarbash 2 times so i am sure they can inform someone how to set every thing up and when to start setting it up.)

I think that covers everything...by the way a thanks for the nomination Murph on the big spot. Also thanks to everyone commenting of the Tampa area guys. Our group doesnt mind traveling to parties in other Florida cities as long as we have some cars to look at or mod and a few drinks to have and a place to crash if need be!!!!!

Thanks

Rob D

P.S. This message took me 56 mins to write after reading it over and seeing if it makes any type of sense!! ( i know some ones going to say im a slow reader or typer but its neither, I just put a lot of thought into this post and trying to get everyones opion coverd.)


So, are we going to make a decision as to what we want to do or sit here with our thumbs up our asses??

[Loyalty]

Well it seems to me that the majority of FLNECO doesn't want a "president" which I can understand. I would like to see us go with the 2 mod scenario that some of us had spoke about. I'm not sure if Murphy is continuing his mod responsibilities or not....but I would definitely like to have the 2nd mod spot if Murphy isn't interested in stayin on as the mod, check my previous posts for some of the reasons (active on the boards, in the club, etc....) :biggrin:

[Morph]

Rob.....:cry: ... that was beautiful :(.....:rofl:

Regarding moderator, I'm ready to pass that on also. As soon as everyone can agree on who they would like to fill the second spot, I will contact one of the admins and have them switch us.

[Ness1216]

I will take it mwuhahahahahah!!!

[Pinhy]

Originally posted by: Morph
Rob.....:cry: ... that was beautiful :(.....:rofl:
hey, we all poured out our thoughts and feelings in LONG posts that took an a lot of time to post...so why single out just rob? :rofl:



as for the moderator, I would also like to have one position since i am currently a moderator and know what i am doing and know a lot of the moderators around the country. I am online ALL THE DAMN time so will be able to catch stuff if it happens to come up, and i am always posting pics of meets and am involved in almost every topic that comes up. I also know a lot of the members, having gotten together with S. FL members a couple times at their meets and with Gainesville/Ocala members up there, which can help to know the member's personality when judging what they are intending in a post (like everyone knows shayne, fred and I make stupid/sarcastic comments all the time but they are just jokes cause we like to joke, but coming from someone that is very serious all the time, a harsh comment might need to be taken more seriously). I think the bottom line is we need moderators that know the people and are on the boards and at meets acting like members of the club.

with that said. i think we need to have a vote for BOTH of the new moderators, since FL NECO had absolutely no say in the current moderators. As a member, I call for a vote. We have the opportunity to start with a fresh, clean slate here and should do it correctly and democratically.


EDIT: also....what are we doing about the 8 or 9 "coordinators"?? i think those positions need to be just gotten rid of since it reallynever turned into what we thought it would (new people contacting them to learn more about FL NECO and them actually COORDINATING something - that doesnt include AL, Murph and Red2K cause i have seen them trying to coordinate).

[Morph]

Originally posted by: Morph
Thanks to everyone for the kind words,

In case anyone else missed it the first time (...*cough* Doug), thank you everyone for your support.



Originally posted by: Pinhy
i think we need to have a vote for BOTH of the new moderators, since FL NECO had absolutely no say in the current moderators.
:bs: Actually, I was not always president and moderator. Back in the day when Florida NECO came to be, I was elected to the position and the current members at the time did have a say in it, and up until you there have been no complaints. :)

edit: added second quote

[Pinhy]

Originally posted by: Pinhy
i think we need to have a vote for BOTH of the new moderators, since FL NECO had absolutely no say in the current moderators.
:bs: Actually, I was not always president and moderator. Back in the day when Florida NECO came to be, I was elected to the position and the current members at the time did have a say in it, and up until you there have been no complaints. :)

edit: added second quote[/quote]

I was talking about the CURRENT FL NECO had no say and the newest addition, not how YOU became moderator 2 years ago.

but i beg to differ, i do believe that last time i was FL NECO moderator there were complaints that it was just done without anyone being told...so it wasnt me who was the first to complain about it...i wasnt "elected" democratically and neither was Jason...so i was proposing a vote by all the members, thats all.

[THUNDERCAT2K]

well, as stated this is to fill murphy's soon to be vacant moderator position, doug as much as you would like it, I don't see a reason that i should have to step down. I am one of the moderators and will do a fine job. I am looking forward to working with whomever gets the other position.

I am active enough on the boards and know most of you, and I am able to make the right decisions for the club. I also take pride in being able to help make the club successful. I feel I was chosen because I have proven to be a worthy canidate. Thank you rob for the wonderful endorsement.

[quote]
Originally posted by: rob8100
Now my thinking on the orginizational process: I think we dont really need a BIG DOGG of flneco. I think we need 2 moderators and thats all. (think the 2 moderators should be Thundercat and AL) q]

[Pinhy]

This is not some FL NECO position-of-power that will make the 2 moderators some kind of "club decision makers". It appears we have decided that we dont NEED a "club decision maker"....this is just for MODERATOR on the INTERNET. It is for someone who is on the boards and can be available to uphold the rules of the Fastcougar.com Forums....thats all. Actually having attended meets in the last year to meet all the new members would be an added bonus so as to learn the personalities of the people as i stated before.

I am not the only person who would like to see a democratic vote held for both positions (see other thread). A lot of the people that disagreed with me being put in place here last year without a vote, now disagree with the same thing happening again. Go figure :shrug:

[Pinhy]

test (had to put this post in because my original post wasnt showing without another post!! then when i deleted this test the original disappeared again...weird things going on man, weird things!)

[gulfcat]

WOW, I'm away for a while, and all h3ll breaks loose!!

Murphy & Wendy, a million thanks!

I really appreciate all you've done for FLNECO as a group and it's your getting meets going that have got me so involved with my Cougar. I'm not a frequent poster, I don't make many meets beyond Fest, and I haven't been to any shows except BASH (I'm more into racing!!) but FLNECO has added tremendously to my enjoyment of my Cougar. I'm another Cougar owner who's going to have her coug and be a member of FLNECO for a long time. (My daughter's saying I need to keep gulfcat until she's 16 [10 now], and only then get a new car, so that my coug will become her 1st car. Sounds reasonable to me....) I've really enjoyed the people in FLNECO, and I'm convinced that most of the reason we have such good people now is because the original members & their elected president set the tone for our chapter of NECO. Having both Murphy & Wendy so active meant a lot to me when I went to my first FLNECO meet -- I was very nervous about being a female with an interest that is usually considered masculine, but Murphy's and Wendy's warmth led the way in making me feel welcomed and comfortable.

I agree with the ideas about splitting up the load Murphy & Wendy have carried -- I don't know how they've done this and all else I know they've had going on in their lives. Perhaps exactly what positions we create and fill should depend on who's sincerely willing to do which kind of work for the group. Maybe continue to let people offer what they'd do, and then do an email poll/election?

I do feel we ought to financially support whoever's hosting our site. Dues were used at one time... I'd be more than willing to return to paying dues if a voluntary contribution system doesn't draw enough support.

I'm really glad you're planning to stay with us, Murphy & Wendy, and thanks again for all you've done for our group and for me.

Marge