| Author | Message | ||
| Rob Lay (Rob328gts)
Board Administrator Username: Rob328gts Post Number: 6317 Registered: 12-2000 |
OK, I agree Dave. Nothing more can be said. We want our FCA region and chapters to always be improving and appreciate feedback. Our region president and chapter presidents can be reached from the following emails... http://www.fcadfw.com/contacts.htm | ||
| Dave (Maranelloman)
Advanced Member Username: Maranelloman Post Number: 2824 Registered: 1-2002 |
JR, I am done with this thread. You wanna play private eye, you do it yourself. Blingmeister (and I have no idea who this is, since I do not know any FCA members from Fredericksberg), while rather profane, succinctly analyzed the situation. His points were spot-on. | ||
| JRV (Jrvall)
Intermediate Member Username: Jrvall Post Number: 2431 Registered: 11-2002 |
>>just that Al wants to talk to me about this, so I thought maybe you had emailed him.<< Wasn't me...maybe it was blingmiester sweet talking Al and impressing him with his wit and humor...? Hay Dave, can you check on blingmiesters membership status for us and post his re-up date and real name...if you can't get that handled Rob can get his IP addy so we'll at least know where he's from (region that is)(unless it's one of your friends of course, in that case never mind) thanks! {  } | ||
| Rob Lay (Rob328gts)
Board Administrator Username: Rob328gts Post Number: 6312 Registered: 12-2000 |
Sorry, I wasn't refering to region leadership, just that Al wants to talk to me about this, so I thought maybe you had emailed him. Just FYI'ing that he was out of town until today. You really should talk to someone, both Grady and Al I think. Al is the best thing that happened to our Region. | ||
| JRV (Jrvall)
Intermediate Member Username: Jrvall Post Number: 2430 Registered: 11-2002 |
>>so that's why he hasn't returned your email I'm sure.<< Rob, I don't think it's Al's job to babysit region leaderships....know what I mean. If he tells the leadership one time to announce elections that should be sufficient in an adult, responsible world. And when it's not, that's what electing new more mature, responsive leaders is all about. { } | ||
| JRV (Jrvall)
Intermediate Member Username: Jrvall Post Number: 2429 Registered: 11-2002 |
>>>...and I run straight into your gutter sludge on this thread. Do you have an extremely small penis or something? << Who's gutter sludge mr first post??????? will you be my hero ??? { } | ||
| Peter Gozinya (Blingmeister)
New member Username: Blingmeister Post Number: 2 Registered: 9-2003 |
Rob, LOL! Good use of sarcasm there. JRV doesnt have the guts or integrity to contact Al, based on what Ive read so far. | ||
| Rob Lay (Rob328gts)
Board Administrator Username: Rob328gts Post Number: 6307 Registered: 12-2000 |
Just an FYI JRV, Al tried to call me this morning, but I didn't take my PCS to work. He just got back in town from Cali, so that's why he hasn't returned your email I'm sure. | ||
| Peter Gozinya (Blingmeister)
New member Username: Blingmeister Post Number: 1 Registered: 9-2003 |
JRV, are you as stupid, arrogant, angry, and ill-mannered as you seem? I have lurked here for 6 months, and have finally gotten around to posting...and I run straight into your gutter sludge on this thread. Do you have an extremely small penis or something? You wrote, with my comments added <<If you were in the Ferrari Business for 20 yrs in Houston maybe you would know what I know and hear what I hear. But since you're not welllll!!!! =well, JRV, I have checked up on you...and your business is definitely not well, you have driven away more customers and employees than you have retained due to your being a complete •••••• bag, and you seem to want to disrupt Club elections solely in order to drive new customers, and new life, to your failing business; so much for you standing on principle= I'm not alone in voicing concerns about leadership =really? looks like you are, actually= ...in fact one fearless leader managed 10K words about nothing so far =who is that? Maranelloman, who made a number of excellent suggestions, which you are too much of a COWARD to even consider? LOL!=...and the chances of it getting better with continued dialogue is nill =applies to you most of all, dipshit coward=. I'm the only guy that doesn't give a flip about what you guys think, so I was noiminated =BY WHOM, liar???= to listen to the drivvle about how perfect the present leaders are and how there is nothing that needs improvement =no one, repeat NO ONE has said this, shithead; one leader suggested ways to make it better and to address your concerns, but you shat all over him; what does that make you besides an also-ran coward?=. So I let the rambling continue until it's clear to everyone who has absolutely no intentions of doing one iota about any concerns no matter who raises them =should read, So you kept rambling until it was clear you had no interest or intention in actually DOING anything, since you clearly preferred being a hamster-penised jerkoff chickenshit=>> Regards, Pete | ||
| Rob Lay (Rob328gts)
Board Administrator Username: Rob328gts Post Number: 6304 Registered: 12-2000 |
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| JRV (Jrvall)
Intermediate Member Username: Jrvall Post Number: 2428 Registered: 11-2002 |
Yea Dave...you own me !!! LOL !! Dale, If you were in the Ferrari Business for 20 yrs in Houston maybe you would know what I know and hear what I hear. But since you're not welllll!!!! I'm not alone in voicing concerns about leadership...in fact one fearless leader managed 10K words about nothing so far...and the chances of it getting better with continued dialogue is nill. I'm the only guy that doesn't give a flip about what you guys think, so I was noiminated to listen to the drivvle about how perfect the present leaders are and how there is nothing that needs improvement. So I let the rambling continue until it's clear to everyone who has absolutely no intentions of doing one iota about any concerns no matter who raises them...oh yea I'm owned...hahaha!! | ||
| Dale W Spradling (Drtax)
Member Username: Drtax Post Number: 389 Registered: 4-2003 |
>>ps: Dale, maybe now you know why 99.99% of the people don't want to come forward????<< Sorry JR, I musta missed your point. All Dave is saying, from what I can tell, is that you need to contact the regional director of FCA with your concerns. You apparently believe the the current officers of the Houston FCA, ah, don't like you. Well, in that case, I recommend that you take your concerns one step further up the ladder. Again, I don't have any history with this club. Indeed, I'm afraid that Dave is gonna slap me with one of his clueless stickers. However, the leaders of every volunteer organization that I have ever been involved are typically guys and gals who have agreed to take over a thankless chore because nobody else would. So if you wanta pitch in, I'm sure they'd would love the support. But from my vantage point, I don't see a anti-JR conspriacy. Or do I? What was that sound... Dale BTW, what happened to your last photo shoot that you promised to share with us? Don't tell me that John Ashcroft got to you to? | ||
| Greg (Greg512tr)
Junior Member Username: Greg512tr Post Number: 200 Registered: 2-2002 |
"there are pictures of last month breakfast meeting...." Note to Rob-Please, no breakfast meetings in Dallas. The evening/late-night format is gaining momentum and I don't think the scenery would be as good . | ||
| Dave (Maranelloman)
Advanced Member Username: Maranelloman Post Number: 2816 Registered: 1-2002 |
 | ||
| JRV (Jrvall)
Intermediate Member Username: Jrvall Post Number: 2425 Registered: 11-2002 |
>>Could the reason more don't "come forward" be you instead? Just a thought..<< Nahhhh...I feel pretty confident it's because they don't want to have to "get over themselves" Dave!!! Regards, JRV | ||
| Dave (Maranelloman)
Advanced Member Username: Maranelloman Post Number: 2815 Registered: 1-2002 |
Oh, for goodness sake, JR, step back a few paces & get over yourself! I have DIRECTLY addressed your concerns in at least 3 or 4 posts. You have discarded each suggestion, without offering anything in return. I have recommended you reach out to the one person who CAN make meaningful change in our region, and you dismiss it as well. What do you really want, man? 'Cause all you ARE doing is crapping all over the genuinely-offered "leadership" I have offered, even though you are not even in my chapter. My post stands. Step up to the plate with more substantiation, or take even one of my suggestions, before you use your own "thoughtful participation" to attack me, OK? Bottom line: you wanted help from FCA leadership even though you did not articulate or substantiate your "membership concerns"; I offered it, even though you are not in my chapter; you crapped on my offer several times without even considering any of my suggestions. And you think this somehow illustrates why others don't "come forward"? Could the reason more don't "come forward" be you instead? Just a thought.. | ||
| JRV (Jrvall)
Intermediate Member Username: Jrvall Post Number: 2424 Registered: 11-2002 |
>>If you cannot see the value of contacting him directly instead of throwing horseshit on this board, << LOL Thanks !!! We need more leaders like you that can really address membership concerns. Appreciate your thoughtful participation. Regards, JRV ps: Dale, maybe now you know why 99.99% of the people don't want to come forward???? | ||
| Dave (Maranelloman)
Advanced Member Username: Maranelloman Post Number: 2813 Registered: 1-2002 |
JR, I certainly would, if in fact I saw any evidence of the "lack of communication, lack of widebased participation and alienation of members and potential members" you allege. But, so far, I see none. Granted, I am focused on my chapter, and I do not believe we have these challenges. But, I would think the onus is on you to illustrate clear, unambiguous, non-attack examples of these problems before anyone in "leadership" is going to do anything about them. I have looked at this "list", and I have made clear suggestions as to how to address the ambiguous, non-substantiated problems you allege. That is what leadership is, JR. And, until you can show me more substantiation, that is all that needs to be done. Bottom line: you prove more, and perhaps I can help (although I will NOT enter into Houston chapter issues). Second bottom line: unless you have the courage to approach our Regional Director, Al, with these problems, all you are doing is complaining on a message board, And that ain't much, my good man. Again, the onus is on you to make suggestions, not on me to do su to your allegations. Despite that, I have already made 4 suggestions, which you have tossed aside without even considering them. Al is the only one of us who has any real authority, as he sits on National's Board of Directors. If you cannot see the value of contacting him directly instead of throwing horseshit on this board, or if you don't have courage or faith in your convictions to do so, I can't help you. | ||
| JRV (Jrvall)
Intermediate Member Username: Jrvall Post Number: 2423 Registered: 11-2002 |
>>The problems we've outlined so far seem to be communication, lack of widebased participation and alienation of members and potetial members. << Dave, I have a real decent grasp of the english language....luckily for me.....now several problems have been outlined that are of concern to several here, not just me!!!! I would think you would rather take this oppurtunity to exhibit some leadership ability yourself rather than simply copping out and trying to focus on my individual concerns, which btw I've asked you not to worry about. As benevolent as your being (and I do appreciate all the benevolence I can get) you don't appear to be standing back and looking at the list above that I have reposted. Do you have some suggestions to help get these gentlemen in leadership roles including yourself to come up with suggestions that don't simply end with email Al DeLauro? | ||
| Jim E (Jimpo1)
Advanced Member Username: Jimpo1 Post Number: 2548 Registered: 7-2001 |
I for one don't WANT the responsibilities that come with running the local chapter. It's all I can do to manage my own life, let alone try to plan events for dozens of people. I don't know how it was years ago, I only joined FCA this year, but the only reason I joined was to participate in the poker run. The majority of the events we do seem to be more Ferrarichat events than FCA events, even though the invitation goes to all. From my vantage point, most of the local FCA members couldn't care less about the club or the events the club sponsors. Considering the most cars we've ever had at ANY event is 17, I'd say my point has been proven. Subtract from that number the people that are active on F-chat, which is the majority. At any given meeting, 3/4 of the attendees are F-chatters. My thanks to Rob for working hard on all the things we do. | ||
| Dave (Maranelloman)
Advanced Member Username: Maranelloman Post Number: 2812 Registered: 1-2002 |
Yes, I do, and I have already made them: 1) contact Al De Lauro if you or anyone you know wishes to be on any upcoming ballots 2) contact Al or National to make sure they have your correct mailing info for future paper mailings 3) have a face-to-face with Grady to help settle any concerns you may have regarding how your chapter is led 4) volunteer to be responsible for events, fundraising, membership, or whatever, in order to become better known in the chapter & also to spread the responsibilities & "power" base around a bit Those 4 should really help you accomplish the goal of solving the problems that concern you. Please do not mistake my previous post for "focusing on you personally". Rather, I was focusing on your repeated messages that do not serve you well, and do little to engender support for your goals. IMO, of course. As I said, I meant my comments benevolently, and hoep they were only taken in that spirit!! | ||
| JRV (Jrvall)
Intermediate Member Username: Jrvall Post Number: 2422 Registered: 11-2002 |
Dave, Thanks for your input.....seems a little off topic focusing on me personally but so be it, I asked you to try and remain focused but I guess that's not in the cards. Do you have any ON TOPIC FCA suggestions ????? | ||
| Dave (Maranelloman)
Advanced Member Username: Maranelloman Post Number: 2809 Registered: 1-2002 |
JR, please do me a favor & get past whatever bitterness you have regarding the FCA and/or some of its leadership in Houston. You say that list is "sad"? When have you stepped up to the plate & tried to make the region better? What have you done to add value, exactly?? The folks on your cut & paste, which included myself, have spent & continue to spend spend countless hours of their own personal time trying to make something of a region that was essentially left for dead by National. They do this out of love for the marque, and a desire to right a sinking ship. You were nowhere to be found during any of this, IIRC, but here you are now, sniping. Each of these individuals has turned a lemon into pretty good lemonade, and your sarcastic sniping only reflects poorly on you. I say this benevolently, and not to cast aspersions on you---and wish you would do the same in your desire to participate in the democratic process in FCA. Bottom line: if you don't like the way things are run, there are more than ample opportunities for you to volunteer, step up to the plate, & make improvements. But if all you're gonna do is throw dogshit from the sidelines, well, again, it only reflects poorly on you. | ||
| Mike (Adesalos)
New member Username: Adesalos Post Number: 26 Registered: 3-2003 |
Guys, if you get past the 1st page of the site, there are pictures of last month breakfast meeting.... The dec9, 02 date may be only a overseen item. Please give a little bit credit to the people organizing things. There was a rally this past w-e, and 20 members or so showed up. Considering the Houston chapter has 70 to 80 members total, this isn't that bad of participation isn't it? | ||
| JRV (Jrvall)
Intermediate Member Username: Jrvall Post Number: 2420 Registered: 11-2002 |
>>>Last updated: 9 Dec 2002. <<< Sad... ..as it's the only region with an entire staff of board members with neat-o titles!!! At least they don't all have the same last name...{ }...of course glad handing & backslapping wouldn't be any fun without plenty of hands and a few backs. Regional Director - Al DeLauro Houston Chapter President - Grady Owens Vice President - Joe Foster Treasurer - Ronny Ravkind Secretary - Steve Levine Dallas - Fort Worth Chapter President - Rob Lay Hill Country Chapter President - Dave Scott Lousiana Chapter President - Franco Valobra Oklahoma Chapter President - Mark Cain | ||
| Alan Leach (Speedy308)
Junior Member Username: Speedy308 Post Number: 105 Registered: 12-2002 |
Yep! That's the one! Last updated: 9 Dec 2002. Sigh. | ||
| Tillman Strahan (Tillman)
Member Username: Tillman Post Number: 937 Registered: 11-2001 |
I was referencing the three sites for the South Central Region: Dallas/Fort Worth: http://www.fcadfw.com/ Houston: http://www.fca-houston.org/ Austin: http://www.fcahillcountry.org/ | ||
| Alan Leach (Speedy308)
Junior Member Username: Speedy308 Post Number: 104 Registered: 12-2002 |
Three chapter websites???????? The one I have is the one that says "Houston Chapter South Central Region of FCA" Last updated: 9 Dec 2002!!!!!!! | ||
| JRV (Jrvall)
Intermediate Member Username: Jrvall Post Number: 2419 Registered: 11-2002 |
>>While there are plenty of 'la passionata' who don't belong to the Chapter, I'm unaware of any broad-based group of people who have not joined, >> LOL how could you be aware of those who were alienated and didn't join if you don't even really know for sure who has joined???? { }...funny thing is though "I KNOW" ! I'm certianly glad we agree that we all don't have to share the same opinion...we have at last found common ground and I think we should use this to focus on the club and allow ourselves to move forward. | ||
| Bryan Cashion (Bryan)
New member Username: Bryan Post Number: 4 Registered: 9-2003 |
JR is right...we don't have to agree. I disagree that a change in leadership is called for. With respect to areas listed as a problem. Wide-based participation There have been more events in the last 12 months of the SC Region and the Houston Chapter than in the 5 years before that (I know...I have been a member for at least that time). I attribute this dramatic change to the present leadership and the other volunteers who were energized by the change. I don't count myself in leadership...managing a website as simple as ours is pretty trivial. Participation has been good at these events. As several people have commented, we will never get a large percentage of the total membership to participate / volunteer...that doesn't mean that catastrophe is at hand or that something Machiavellian is underway. I haven't been to the National meeting since 1984. It's not that Nationals aren't a great time...just other things can be more important. Alienation While there are plenty of 'la passionata' who don't belong to the Chapter, I'm unaware of any broad-based group of people who have not joined, just because of the present makeup. If there are such, perhaps there are other improvements we can make in order to bring them in. Based on the postings, nobody even in this thread has abstained from joining FCA, just because they didn't approve of the leadership. Communications I promise to look into how the Chapter manages membership updates and sending notices to members and to evaluate how this can be improved. Recognize that e-mail is one important way this all happens these days; that's why an e-mail is a requirement of membership. However, events also get listed in the quarterly newsletter. By the way, what percentage of the FCHAT membership participates in this thread? Minimal, I would guess. | ||
| Dale W Spradling (Drtax)
Member Username: Drtax Post Number: 386 Registered: 4-2003 |
If jump starting the local chapter is your aim, I'm with you all the way. Like I said, I'm completely ignorant of the history of this club. I guess that I'm not sure that going after the President's spot is the best approach... but, like I said, I don't have any history here, just want to see things head in the right direction. Prancing Ponies just wanna have fun, ha! Dale | ||
| JRV (Jrvall)
Intermediate Member Username: Jrvall Post Number: 2418 Registered: 11-2002 |
Dale, when any leader alienates the membership it's anyone & everyones right or responsibility to come forward and speak up....unfortunately 99.99% of the people will only voice their concerns privately and because of that nothing can ever be accomplished or improved....since I have no political aspirations at all it's probably best I be the one to stand up although if you take a tally I'm not alone here. You may have noticed I didn't start this thread ? So once again, this isn't about me...nice try though guys...it's about seeing problems and furtering solutions. The problems we've outlined so far seem to be communication, lack of widebased participation and alienation of members and potetial members. It truly would be helpful if instead of trying to focus on me and shift the attention, if we could focus on the items highlighted and how to resolve them. I've simply expressed my opinion that a local leadership change would go a long way to adressing some of these issues. The beauty of an opinion is that others don't have to agree and I don't have to change mine. However.....if one looks at this thread it's apparent some agree there are issues and I really think it would be helpful to work on the club issues first as I've previously stated. | ||
| Dale W Spradling (Drtax)
Member Username: Drtax Post Number: 385 Registered: 4-2003 |
JR, I'm a newbie here and don't have a clue about the past of the Houston Chapter of FCA, so don't bite my head off here. But what I'm wondering is your motivation for shaking the local FCA tree. Having worked with more volunteer groups than I care to admit to, I'll go Dave one step further and say that typically 5% of the members do 95% of the work. So if you want the local FCA group to be more active, I suggest that you recruit people like you, me, and Alan to get more active in the club. But if your problem is Grady Owens, I think that perhaps you should attempt to handle this differently by calling Grady directly. I'm trying to figure out why you're so hot on the President issue. Because as Dave said, the President really doesn't have much power. So if you want to move the local club onward and upward, I'll be glad to help out to the extent that I have time <sigh>. But if you just have a personal thing against Grady, well... Dale | ||
| Dave (Maranelloman)
Advanced Member Username: Maranelloman Post Number: 2807 Registered: 1-2002 |
Indeed, my good man! | ||
| JRV (Jrvall)
Intermediate Member Username: Jrvall Post Number: 2417 Registered: 11-2002 |
Dave, yea that's my setiments exactly...too bad others don't understand certian basics in life and as I pointed out even risk going to prison to grab that temporary influence and percieved power and use whatever they can to spoil it for others...you do live on planet earth with the rest of us don't you Dave? { } BTW Dave, this is not about me it's about how to improve our local chapters, and we have tenatively agreed things can be improved...I really do appreciate you takin the time to try and educate a guy like myself to upper eschelon things....but if you don't mind let's try to focus on making our local FCA's a better place for now since that's what this is about, and we can work on me later. | ||
| Dave (Maranelloman)
Advanced Member Username: Maranelloman Post Number: 2806 Registered: 1-2002 |
All true...but, as far as I know, neither Mel nor Paul ever held a "leadership" position within FCA. Or, ot put it better, when I see any suggestion that being a chapter president has any "power", I am forced to post this, in good humor & intentions:  | ||
| JRV (Jrvall)
Intermediate Member Username: Jrvall Post Number: 2415 Registered: 11-2002 |
>>However, I assure you, there is NO "power" in being an FCA chapter president. I am not sure why you think there is. << Dave, I understand how this works very well...having been around cars and Car Clubs for 30+ years has taught me alot "believe it or not" ! The unfortunate part is not everyone fully understands that the minute consolidation of power alleinates members and tends to destroy participation. If you understand that good for you, others are not so informed. Not surprising however in a Ferrari Club where it's not that hard to find very self absorbed people with personal agendas first & foremost. One only needs to look at Mel Spillman or Paul Frame to see how that self absorbed grab for imaginary power and influence can twist ones morals, values and character into a twisted mess, and if one was lacking in any of those attributes to start with....well! | ||
| Dave (Maranelloman)
Advanced Member Username: Maranelloman Post Number: 2805 Registered: 1-2002 |
JR, you make valid points, as do Tillman & Bryan. However, I assure you, there is NO "power" in being an FCA chapter president. I am not sure why you think there is. Additionally, one deals with the 90-10 rule: 90% of the regular participants in chapter events comprise 10% of the membership. I cannot speak for Houston, which I believe has been ably led, but here in the Hill Country, I always welcome members' input & offers to help. I certainly cannot do it all alone, nor want to. I guess what I am saying is, get involved. Volunteer to hold or plan an event. Nominate people for elected leadership roles. Volunteer to be chapter treasurer or social chairman or driving events coordinator or membership development. That is where the "power" is--in making things happen. But you can't do it here on FC. We are only 4,000 members...individual input really does make a difference. That "delegation of responsibilities" you desire comes with bridging friendships with a wide range of local members & being the first (often only!) person to volunteer to keep this club fun! I hope this helps, man.. | ||
| JRV (Jrvall)
Intermediate Member Username: Jrvall Post Number: 2414 Registered: 11-2002 |
Along the lines of communications: This election info isn't the only portion that could use a little help. ( speaking of which, thanks Tillman for pointing out to Dave the sites omisions of any mention.) It came to my attention recently that emails about membership info do not even get replied to. No names..but that also has the effect of putting enthusiasts off that are just trying to connect and be part of the Ferrari spirit and experience. And in all fairness (fairness to all Dave) as someone who wears a hundred hats and has communication traffic up the wazzoo, I fully understand trying to plan, organize, commuicate, update, reply, respond, inform, is sometimes an almost overwhelming job, especially if understaffed. However.....with every job goes responsibilities, and there really is no valid excuse with wanting a position, but refusing to accept the responsibilities that go along with it. If more help is needed where is this request? As it stands imo a big part of the problem is that the present circle of power exists in a vacum, and until that problem is solved there will be no responsive leadership. Instead of individuals trying to consolidate some form of power, "the solution imo" is the dilution of this imaginary power source and the deligation of reponsibilities across a much wider crossection of the membership. It wouldn't hurt at all if the local leadership didn't try to use the position as a bully pulpit either. There are truly no stupid people in this group and power mongering and personal agendas are very transparent and look so ugly to almost everyone. Everyone benifits in "Car Clubs" when fairness is applied with a wide brush and those with prsonal agendas are replaced with those who take the positions to enhance the spirit and experience "for all" . | ||
| Bryan Cashion (Bryan)
New member Username: Bryan Post Number: 1 Registered: 9-2003 |
I am the Webmaster for the Houston Chapter site. Contact info for our officers (entire South Central region) is at the Contacts link from our home page http://www.ferrariclubofamerica.org/ You can also see Houston Chapter past and future events. Volunteer to help with any of the latter. That's where personal energy is best focused. In fact, you don't have to be an officer to organize an event!!! I received Al's notice several months ago. However, I admit that elections are not at the top of the priority list right now. The Chapter has been operational for slightly more than 2 years. Also, this is the first year that National has required the extra dues ($35) for the Region/Chapter. Up to now, the Region got by on some funding from National and on individual member help and money. I set up a chapter discussion group over one year ago and sent notices to the members of the chapter. There has been zero usage since. I would be happy to add others from the South Central region, but only if there is value in ANOTHER chat room. I dropped out of F-List because of the overwhelming traffic. FCHAT is better, since the topics are categorized somewhat. We do need to improve the paths of communication, esp when new members join. I have what I thought was up to date mailing list for Houston, but JR's name is not on it (yet). If useful, we can keep a list on the protected portion of the website...I already have a protected section for pictures members cars. I am more inclined to just e-mail the list whnever a change is made. Nothing on the Web is truly secure. P.S. I doubt Paul Frame is doing much with Ferraris these days. Those from Houston probably know what's gone on here with Seitel...it isn't pretty. All his cars have been sold or are at FoH for sale. | ||
| Tillman Strahan (Tillman)
Member Username: Tillman Post Number: 934 Registered: 11-2001 |
Thanks again, Dave. Just to make something clear, I don't really care who the local and regional president are. I'm just concerned about the fact that a club that I'm paying $135/yr for is not communicating well. I just checked all three chapter websites, and there's nothing there about nominations or upcoming elections. I've always been told that pointing out problems without offering solutions is whining, and I am not a whiner. So, here's a couple of suggestions: 1) Use the chapter websites. Information like this should be front page on those websites, so that people know what's happening. 2) Create a protected regional message board and mailing list, so that issues like this can be discussed openly among members, without having to take place publicly. Host it on a South Central Region website. 3) Have quarterly FCA business meetings. We haven't had a gathering in DFW that was specifically about the FCA since the organizational meeting. Tacking FCA onto the events of a local Ferrari club won't help focus and grow the chapter, and nobody really cares to talk business while karting or hanging out at a club. 4) Make the member list avaiable to other memebers, so that we know who's in the area. Certainly this would require an opt-out ability for people's information, but we can't pretend that everyone in the region is going to communicate via the internet. Just some thoughts. Now I'm going driving and looking at cars! | ||
| JRV (Jrvall)
Intermediate Member Username: Jrvall Post Number: 2411 Registered: 11-2002 |
>>and to see what you may need to do to get on the ballot, OK??<< I don't want to be on the ballot ...{ }! Just want to see some guys "that deserve" to be on the ballot get their fair shake, rather than sitting back and letting the Regime carry on the status qoe......{ } I'm glad you verified that I'm a card carrying member in good standing...I don't take the local paper so posting my pic with newspaper & membership card in hand would have been a pain...{ } Remember Dave....America as a whole and all it's little pieces works so much better when fairness to others can be spread around a little(yea I know it sucks sometimes to be fair to those you don't like)...but, I really do believe the founding fathers were on to something by implementing Democracy in order to allow "everyone" to participate! | ||
| Dave (Maranelloman)
Advanced Member Username: Maranelloman Post Number: 2792 Registered: 1-2002 |
Tillman, call National at the 800 number on their website & ask (or ask Rob, who, like all chapter presidents, is given a list of his/her local members). JR, take a deep breath, man. I received the letter, as did many other people here in my area. How do you justify saying "not a single person has recieved" it??? Just because few people post on this FC section?? Also, JR, as I understand it from National, you joined in July. Al's letter was sent out in late May or early June, I believe. This does not prove any "vast conspiracy", as your posts suggest. Again, please contact Al or Grady directly to make sure your address is correct, and to see what you may need to do to get on the ballot, OK?? | ||
| JRV (Jrvall)
Intermediate Member Username: Jrvall Post Number: 2410 Registered: 11-2002 |
>>Dave, that's very interesting. All my FCA info points to my PO box, and I have not received anything other than the national newsletter and the PH magazines. How do I verify that regional has the correct address? << So, even though we all recieve our FCA newsletters and other forms of communications from FCA, not a single person has recieved this 'definately sent' election information???? | ||
| Tillman Strahan (Tillman)
Member Username: Tillman Post Number: 932 Registered: 11-2001 |
Dave, that's very interesting. All my FCA info points to my PO box, and I have not received anything other than the national newsletter and the PH magazines. How do I verify that regional has the correct address? | ||
| Dave (Maranelloman)
Advanced Member Username: Maranelloman Post Number: 2791 Registered: 1-2002 |
Tillman & JR, Below is what I & other chapter presidents received from Al on 8/18/03. As you can see, it CLEARLY references a mailing (paper) he did earlier in the summer. I can't find my own personal copy of this mailing right now, but I thought there had been one (as I indicated in my earlier post) that solicited nominations. JR, I strongly urge you to get a copy of the aforementioned mailing from Al, if you cannot find the one sent to the registration address FCA has on file for you. "Hi everyone, As you all know from discussion and prior correspondence, we will be having elections for Region Director and Chapter Presidents this Fall. Doing so will put us in accord with the By-laws and begin a normal two-year election cycle. ===>> As I stated in correspondence to all Region members earlier this year <<===,>> In that same correspondence <<=== I also asked all members to indicate if they were interested in running for any of these offices; as I have received no replys to that call, the only names on the ballot will be your own (with space for write-ins). With this note I'd like to accomplish two things: 1) get your final confirmation that you want to be listed on the ballot, and, 2) ask you for a 3-4 sentence (not more) description of yourself to be placed on the ballot. To keep on track time-wise I'd like to have your responses by August 31. If I haven't received anything from you by then, I will assume that you DO wish to be on the ballot and that you want me to prepare a description for you (an accurate one, not a funny one). To ensure that all is objective, I am requesting FCA National to recieve the ballots and do the count. Thanks for your help. Ciao, Al" | ||
| Rob Lay (Rob328gts)
Board Administrator Username: Rob328gts Post Number: 6272 Registered: 12-2000 |
That is true Jim, why is it we only get FerrariChat.com members to our FCA events? We were doing FerrariChat.com events before I got involved with the FCA. I was hoping that we could merge the two groups, but most FCA members aren't active. Some of the FCA members that do events are... Diane (355) Don Payne (355) Don Rose(328) ...and a few others I can't think of, I guess about 25% of participants are FCA. | ||
| Rob Lay (Rob328gts)
Board Administrator Username: Rob328gts Post Number: 6270 Registered: 12-2000 |
Ah Mike, you know Haas and David? They're great guys. I wish I owned half of David's cars and had half of Haas's knowledge. Yea, both of them left SRX7 for SRF. Both very similar class philosophies except that SRF is a national class, although a tad pricer. Things are going great for me in SRX7, they may be refering to the SRX7 I totaled at Hallett about 18 months ago. I'm actually ahead of them in points, but of course they haven't been doing all the races I have. Haas is one of the best drivers in our class. David and I usually have great battles for the 2nd tier positions. | ||
| Mike (Adesalos)
New member Username: Adesalos Post Number: 25 Registered: 3-2003 |
Rob, My comment was not at all aim at anyone, and not at you in particular. Anyone who does more that nothing, and try to make things happen is better than the rest of us. Yourself and JR are some of the leaders with your chat boards, and with your questions. Since I am at this point a follower, I would dare criticizing anyone, since you are better than me or at least equal in this quest for doind F-things in texas... By the way Rob, Haas and David from Houston told me about your performance in Oklahoma. Wish you better luck next time. The Ford serie seems quite fun, and inexpensive to get into... | ||
| Jim Schad (Jim_schad)
Intermediate Member Username: Jim_schad Post Number: 1847 Registered: 7-2002 |
didn't mean that as a poke at you Rob for your efforts. Just meant that FCA members are pretty inactive. If it wasn't for fchat we wouldn't coordinate our regular meetings or have any particpants. | ||
| Jim Schad (Jim_schad)
Intermediate Member Username: Jim_schad Post Number: 1846 Registered: 7-2002 |
FCA is still pretty much dead in Dallas. Only Ferrarichat.com is alive. | ||
| Rob Lay (Rob328gts)
Board Administrator Username: Rob328gts Post Number: 6269 Registered: 12-2000 |
Just a quick point... before Al, Dave, and I got involved with our Region 18 months ago the FCA was basically dead here. There's much to improve, but at least things are happening. | ||
| Mike (Adesalos)
New member Username: Adesalos Post Number: 24 Registered: 3-2003 |
My 2 cents: I am a member since february, but didn't receive anything from the Houston Chapter before 2 weeks ago, when I propose myself to help organizing the rally of tomorrow. I guess now that Grady has my email address I started to receive info. But nothing about election. Not that I am pissed at anyone, since I wasn't planning to run for president. I'll ask him tomorrow during the rally what is the status and timing for any elections... I think in any case JR is write to say that a little more PR would be welcome in Texas.... | ||
| Dave (Maranelloman)
Advanced Member Username: Maranelloman Post Number: 2790 Registered: 1-2002 |
No worries, JR. I agree--elections need to be open & announced. If that didn't happen in Houston, I would recommend first contacting Al DeLauro. He is a VERY reasonable & sensible guy who does not play either favorites or stupid political old-boy games. I strongly recommend calling or emailing him first, because he will likely solve the situation for you immediately. National is only going to punt it back to him anyway... | ||
| JRV (Jrvall)
Intermediate Member Username: Jrvall Post Number: 2407 Registered: 11-2002 |
>>You know, you do have to be a FCA member to be notified.<< So do I need to post a pic holding todays newspaper and the newest issue of FCA News Bulletin 09-03 with the 330 front end on the cover in front of the Marqee that says "Now Showing" The Italian Job????? { } | ||
| JRV (Jrvall)
Intermediate Member Username: Jrvall Post Number: 2406 Registered: 11-2002 |
>>JR, you may want to ask your local chapter president if he solicited nominations (I presume you belong to the FCA?) before starting World War III. Just a friendly word of advice...<< Dave....wrong buddy...an announcement is not when someone kicks doors down and finds secret info lurking behind them....\ It's not my job as a member(yes I'm a member Dave ({ }) to forcibly demand that public info be made public....you think maybe I wasn't contacted ON PURPOSE to prevent a Regime Change by the local entrenched self appointed for life FCA guys???????????????????? This is going to the highest levels Dave.... BTW: this is not a war Dave, just the democratic process being forced back upon the entrenched Regimes of exclusionary good ole boys. { } | ||
| Dave (Maranelloman)
Advanced Member Username: Maranelloman Post Number: 2789 Registered: 1-2002 |
Tillman, I think it was both, but I am just not sure. I have this info at home, and I am at a client site now. I will check when I get home.. | ||
| Tillman Strahan (Tillman)
Member Username: Tillman Post Number: 931 Registered: 11-2001 |
Thanks Chris, I just didn't recall seeing anything about it, so I was surprised to see it on the other board. Dave, was the regional mailing a physical mail, or an email? Thanks | ||
| Christopher F. (Dallasguy)
Member Username: Dallasguy Post Number: 262 Registered: 10-2002 |
Just to back up Rob, I got the email he sent out notifying everyone on the list of the opportunity to throw their names in the ring for the president's position. | ||
| Dave (Maranelloman)
Advanced Member Username: Maranelloman Post Number: 2786 Registered: 1-2002 |
I forwarded to my chapter Al's solicitation of nominations for his role & for my role. IIRC, there was also a letter mailed to the mailing list National gives us, from Al, outlining this as part of him covering many more points. But I know for a fact that nominations were solicited. If people don't read what they get, etc., well, that's not FCA's fault. JR, you may want to ask your local chapter president if he solicited nominations (I presume you belong to the FCA?) before starting World War III. Just a friendly word of advice... | ||
| Rob Lay (Rob328gts)
Board Administrator Username: Rob328gts Post Number: 6264 Registered: 12-2000 |
JRV, didn't you just read my post? Everyone in the DFW chapter with a valid email was notified and no one got back to me they were interested. Also, why would I keep something so quiet for a job I really don't want if someone can do a better job. You know, you do have to be a FCA member to be notified. | ||
| Alan Leach (Speedy308)
Junior Member Username: Speedy308 Post Number: 100 Registered: 12-2002 |
Vote SPEEDY308 for President!! A man of the people! A chicken in every pot! A tiger in every tank! Art cars for everyone, a costume ball, BIG FUN. Oh, wait a minute, that's the Orange Show Foundation. Never mind! Isn't FCA's slogan "dancing in the street"???????? Just checkin' | ||
| JRV (Jrvall)
Intermediate Member Username: Jrvall Post Number: 2405 Registered: 11-2002 |
>>I don't recall seeing this information. Did anyone else receive this? << NO this was NOT made public info until I started questioning why Officers appeared to be LifeTime positions...at which time this SECRET Election discussion came to lite under the Freedom of Information Act. Itis obvious that no one could raise their hand because NO ONE knew about the upcoming elections besides the incumbents who for all the obvious reasons would have preffered this info to have remained secret. However the present structure of REGIMES that last until death are no longer acceptable!!!! I will be in contact with National FCA very shortly to 1- Make the Elections Public Knowledage Now and Forever in the Future !!!!! 2- Postpone the elections until EVERYONE has been notified and FAIR Elections with REAL Candidates can be formed!!! The Days of SECRET ELECTIONS & Lifetime Regimes is drawing to a close !!! | ||
| Rob Lay (Rob328gts)
Board Administrator Username: Rob328gts Post Number: 6262 Registered: 12-2000 |
Elections are only every 2 years too and only Region and Chapter presidents are voted on. | ||
| Jim E (Jimpo1)
Advanced Member Username: Jimpo1 Post Number: 2531 Registered: 7-2001 |
I joined in March so I could do the poker run, I never heard a word. | ||
| Rob Lay (Rob328gts)
Board Administrator Username: Rob328gts Post Number: 6261 Registered: 12-2000 |
I know I told everyone in our chapter by email and I might of mentioned on here, but haven't searched yet. It's really the responsibility of the Region to notify all of it's members. Al told me that was done, but I can't specifically remember either when or how this took place. I think there's been only a couple region wide mailings this year. I would recommend asking this question of our region president Al DeLauro. Let me know if you don't have his contact information. I would love for someone to step up to the DFW Chapter position if they are motivated to keep up what I've been doing and go beyond. There were no Ferrari events in the DFW area and I wanted that to change because I personally like to attend Ferrari events. No one stepped up, so I did. If someone else wants to keep the events up, then that's less for me to do, but then I still meet my needs of personally attending local Ferrari events. | ||
| Alan Leach (Speedy308)
Junior Member Username: Speedy308 Post Number: 96 Registered: 12-2002 |
No, but I just joined FCA last week. Some other new owners are probably out of the loop as well. Thanks for putting this issue out there Tillman. I bet Paul Frame knows. | ||
| Tillman Strahan (Tillman)
Member Username: Tillman Post Number: 930 Registered: 11-2001 |
According to this thread at F errari-talk.com http://tinyurl.com/n4x8 (nice restriction, BTW) "All the members in the South Central Region were notified that the Region and Chapter presidents are elected positions and if anyone wanted to run against the incumbents, then to let Al know. There wasn't a single person to stand up, so the ballots for the next two years of office are coming out with only the incumbent names and a write-in line." I don't recall seeing this information. Did anyone else receive this? Thanks Tillman |