Comments---1st
VP Bob Lemon
This past season, a tournament director came to the Executive Council (EC) regarding an issue of bad behavior by a member. These issues, as they arise, are usually handled on a local basis. This particular situation needed EC judgment. Since I was the new kid on the block it was a major learning experience for me. I.knew the By-Laws were important but I never really took the time to read them thoroughly. I would recommend that all members take the time to read them. If you have a question, you will most often find the answer there.
The issue presented regarded possible suspension for a
member. The By-laws lists infractions
that may cause a member to be suspended.
(Page 2----Article 3--- Section 8)
a.
willfully violating any official rule or Bylaw of FSHPA
or NHPA
b. fixing games,
cheating, or being a part of any conduct unbecoming a member
c.
placing a bet of monetary, value on a contestant, or self, when
participating in competition.
d. using unsanctioned
horseshoes in a tournament.
e.
indulging in actions, words, or phrases disturbing to
others
f. using profane
language when on tournament grounds
g.
forfeiting in a tournament for an unapproved
reason.
Tournament directors are the backbone of our Organization. They must be respected and supported by all
members within the FSHPA. One of
duties of the EC is to rule on issues that go beyond a local decision. The
EC also has the responsibility to assure that all members are heard and are
treated fairly and equally under the Bylaws when a complaint is filed.
All complaints:
3.
the FSHPA member that has been charged has the
right to be heard by the EC
4.
after all facts and testimony has been reviewed
and ruled upon by the EC the facts must be documented and shared with the
National Council (NHPA) for their input and final approval.
5.
a letter or E-mail is issued by the FSHPA
President to our charter Presidents, Tournament Directors and the member who is
the subject of the complaint informing them of our ruling.
6.
the local charter is then responsible for
honoring EC ruling.
It is my hope, that this is the first and last complaint that
we have of this nature. It is very
difficult to pass judgment on a member.
I can assure you that all members will be treated equally and we will
honor the FSHPA Bylaws by enforcing them.
I also want to mention that the state tournament was a great success because of the tremendous work and effort of Lois Hottinger and her staff.. It is the responsibility of the Executive Council to conduct the Tournament, but it’s only possible, because of the hours of labor and planning by our Host.--- The Bradenton Horseshoe Club. Thanks for making the week so enjoyable for so many.---JOB WELL DONE!!!!!!
Bob Lemon