GAGB annual elections

[Bill D (wwh)]

GAGB's annual elections are due to take place in November.

The election for the post of Chairman will begin at midnight on Sunday 9th and end at midnight on Sunday 16th.

The election for the posts of Committee Members will begin at midnight on Tuesday 18th and end at midnight on Tuesday 25th.

Nominations are now open for the post of Chairman and for the posts of Committee members. Nominations will close at midnight exactly seven days before the start of the relevant election.

Nominations can be made in this thread or by sending them directly to me through my GAGB profile. All nominations must be seconded, and accepted by the nominee.

I'm pleased to be able to announce that Erik van Dyck (erik88l-r) of the Georgia Geocachers' Association has very kindly agreed to act as Returning Officer for our elections again. Many thanks, Erik!

The current status:

Chairman:

*Bill D (wwh) - Returned unopposed

Committee:

*mongoose39uk - proposed, seconded, accepted
*StuartP - proposed, seconded, accepted
*nobbynobbs - proposed, seconded, accepted
*Dave of The Wombles - proposed, seconded, accepted
*Mattwaggie - proposed, seconded, accepted
Jacobite - proposed, seconded, accepted
Sandvika - proposed, seconded, accepted

dodgydaved - proposed, seconded, declined
The Hornet - proposed, seconded, declined
Simply Paul - proposed, seconded, declined
Fraggle69 - proposed, seconded, declined
*studlyone - proposed, seconded, declined
*Tiger-eyes - proposed, seconded, declined

Those names marked with an asterisk are current holders of those positions, whether elected or co-opted.

Please post here or PM me if I've made any mistakes.

---
Bill, Chairman GAGB

[PopUpPirate]

Alan White for chairman :)

[Snaik]

Jacobite for comittee

Snaik

[Alan White]

Alan White for chairman :)
Not a member :)

[keehotee]

Alan White for chairman :)

PuP for Pirate Cap'n

[PopUpPirate]

Not a member :)

Pah! UK's newest reviewer then? :applause:

[pklong]

MrsBlorenge for Tea Lady

[studlyone]

MrsBlorenge for Tea LadyI've got to second that one ;)

[The Hornet]

Pah! UK's newest reviewer then? :applause:
When GAGB was originally set up I was one of the UK reviewers and as such I was invited to serve on the committee. After some thought I declined as I felt that the GAGB ought to be an independent body, not beholden to any particular listing site. As a representative of Groundspeak, if I served on the committee I foresaw possible conflicts of interest which would not be in GAGB's interest.

I think that still holds true and despite the review team being otherwise excellently qualified, I question whether it would be appropriate for them to serve here.

[The Cache Hoppers]

PuP for Pirate Cap'n
Cap'n of the reds mind, not them scurvy riddled blues :D

[The Cache Hoppers]

When GAGB was originally set up I was one of the UK reviewers and as such I was invited to serve on the committee. After some thought I declined as I felt that the GAGB ought to be an independent body, not beholden to any particular listing site. As a representative of Groundspeak, if I served on the committee I foresaw possible conflicts of interest which would not be in GAGB's interest.

I think that still holds true and despite the review team being otherwise excellently qualified, I question whether it would be appropriate for them to serve here.

Ooooooh could that be The Hornet intimating that he would like to be on the committee .... ?

[studlyone]

You just beat me to it. I think that the Hornet would make an ideal committee member due to his level headed approach to things and his immense experience in the hobby. As he is no longer "affiliated to t'other site" he's obvously got too much time on his hands now ;) so perhaps the GAGB might be an avenue for him to be tied to a PC again.
:coffee:

[Dave from Glanton]

I think that the Hornet would make an ideal committee member due to his level headed approach to things and his immense experience in the hobby. As he is no longer "affiliated to t'other site" he's obvously got too much time on his hands now ;) so perhaps the GAGB might be an avenue for him to be tied to a PC again.
:coffee:

If that's a nomination, then I second it

[PopUpPirate]

Seconded! And nominate Eckington, too :)

[The Hornet]

Ooooooh could that be The Hornet intimating that he would like to be on the committee .... ?
That is NOT what I meant. :eek:

[Muggle]

He's done a fine job so far, if he is willing to stand for another year I would like to nominate Bill_D (WWH). He has my five votes :)

[jacobite]

seconded bill for chairman

[jacobite]

Personally, I can't think of two better people to serve on the GAGB committee than The Hornet and dodgydaved. They have a proven track record for serving the UK community, and IMO are a safe pair/s of hands.
I believe dodgydaved needs a second (he might need a few minutes to himself after reading this :D), which he now has.

[sTeamTraen]

When GAGB was originally set up I was one of the UK reviewers and as such I was invited to serve on the committee. After some thought I declined as I felt that the GAGB ought to be an independent body, not beholden to any particular listing site. As a representative of Groundspeak, if I served on the committee I foresaw possible conflicts of interest which would not be in GAGB's interest.

I think that still holds true and despite the review team being otherwise excellently qualified, I question whether it would be appropriate for them to serve here.

I think this is absolutely right. I'm aware of more than one state/country where a volunteer's position in the state/national association is perceived to cause a problem. Being a Groundspeak volunteer provides enough opportunities for angst without getting into another firing line. :)

[gazooks]

I second dodgydaved :cheers::socool:

[Wadders]

And NO, i will not be a liasion officer between Groundspeak and GAGB:D:D:D

[fraggle69]

will there be opportunity for the nominees to say why we should vote for them, or do we just vote for the people we like the sound of?
Would be good to see GAGB broaden it's horizons somewhat. :)

[Muggle]

I'd also like to nominate Tony mongoose39 for committee.

[jacobite]

Jacobite for comittee

Snaik

Don't tempt me Snaik!!!

I dare not accept it,..............not even for a short while.
Understand Snaik, I would use this position, from a desire to do good.
But through me,.........................it would wield a power too great and terrible to imagine :eek:

[jacobite]

You just beat me to it. I think that the Hornet would make an ideal committee member due to his level headed approach to things and his immense experience in the hobby. As he is no longer "affiliated to t'other site" he's obvously got too much time on his hands now ;) so perhaps the GAGB might be an avenue for him to be tied to a PC again.
:coffee:

And what about Yourself, Ian? I think you could do well on the committee.
Nominating Studlyone.

[Matrix]

And what about Yourself, Ian? I think you could do well on the committee.
Nominating Studlyone.

Seconded :cheers:

[Mongoose39uk]

will there be opportunity for the nominees to say why we should vote for them, or do we just vote for the people we like the sound of?
Would be good to see GAGB broaden it's horizons somewhat. :)

Nominees of course have the opportunity to say why they would like to stand for election.

In what way would you like to see it broaden its horizons?

[Brenin Tegeingl]

I'd like to nominate Bill D (wwh) for the post of Chairman

and second Tony-Mongoose39uk

Dave

[reddeeps]

I nominate tiger-eyes

[studlyone]

And what about Yourself, Ian? I think you could do well on the committee.
Nominating Studlyone.Thanks for the nomination Jacobite and Matrix. Whilst I would love to become an active member of the GAGB Committee (no delusions of grandure but a willingness to accept hard work here) I don't think that having a wife who runs a geocaching shop would sit too well with the committee and the constitution of the GAGB. That said though I'd be only too happy to help the GAGB in any way possible.

What I would like to see on this thread is a list of how many of the existing committee would be intersted in putting themselves up for re-election.

[Mongoose39uk]

Thanks for the nomination Jacobite and Matrix. Whilst I would love to become an active member of the GAGB Committee (no delusions of grandure but a willingness to accept hard work here) I don't think that having a wife who runs a geocaching shop would sit too well with the committee and the constitution of the GAGB. That said though I'd be only too happy to help the GAGB in any way possible.

What I would like to see on this thread is a list of how many of the existing committee would be intersted in putting themselves up for re-election.

I cant see your wife running a geocaching shop being a problem so long as you don't promote it through the GAGb.

Something I asked previously.

Yes I am willing to stand again.

While I am at it, I would like to nominate:

Nobby Nobbs, Dave from the Wombles and to second Tiger-eyes. All working hard quietly behind the scenes.

The last few elections have been pretty much none elections as we had only enough people standing to fill the vacancies, would be nice to have a vote for a change.

[studlyone]

I cant see your wife running a geocaching shop being a problem so long as you don't promote it through the GAGb.I don't.

Thanks Tony.

Bill if I could make one suggestion - could you post a locked thread with nominees names on it once they get a seconder so that we all have an uptodate list of who has already been nominated, seconded and has accepted to run etc.

[Mongoose39uk]

GAGB's annual elections are due to take place in November.

The election for the post of Chairman will begin at midnight on Sunday 9th and end at midnight on Sunday 16th.

The election for the posts of Committee Members will begin at midnight on Tuesday 18th and end at midnight on Tuesday 25th.

Nominations are now open for the post of Chairman and for the posts of Committee members. Nominations will close at midnight exactly seven days before the start of the relevant election.

Nominations can be made in this thread or by sending them directly to me through my GAGB profile. All nominations must be seconded, and accepted by the nominee.

I'm pleased to be able to announce that Erik van Dyck (erik88l-r) of the Georgia Geocachers' Association has very kindly agreed to act as Returning Officer for our elections again. Many thanks, Erik!

---
Bill, Chairman GAGB


There ya go

[studlyone]

Thanks Tony, you posted that as I edited my last post to say I'd found the answer in the OP. Just like my teachers used to say read the whole paper before answering any of the questions LOL

[Mongoose39uk]

I think it helps sometimes to repeat the OP once the thread has reached a few pages, tbh I tend to skip and go to the latest posts.


You standing then Ian?

[studlyone]

I'd be delighted to. One more lamb to the slaughter I guess.

[Brenin Tegeingl]

I nominate tiger-eyes

Seconded :p

[Bill D (wwh)]

I've been away without internet access since yesterday morning, so I'm rather up to my eyes in things trying to catch up. If as a result I've left anyone off this list or missed any acceptions or refusals or indeed anything else of relevance, please accept my apologies and post or PM me to correct me. As I see it the position at the moment is as follows (I've only listed serious suggestions :)):

Chairman:

*Bill D (wwh) - proposed, seconded

Committee:

Jacobite - proposed, seconded
The Hornet - proposed, seconded
Eckington/dodgydaved - proposed, seconded
*mongoose39uk - proposed, seconded, accepted
studlyone - proposed, seconded, accepted
*Tiger-eyes - proposed, seconded
*Dave of The Wombles - proposed, seconded
*nobbynobbs - proposed, seconded

This list includes suggestions I've received by PM, and where two or more people have proposed someone I've taken that to be a proposal and a seconding. If I've dismissed anything as non-serious but it was intended seriously, please post to say so. Thanks.

Those names marked with an asterisk are current holders of those positions.

---
Bill, Chairman GAGB

[Bill D (wwh)]

I've now had a little time to collect my thoughts, not just pick up the pieces, as it were. I'd like to propose StuartP, who is currently our (co-opted) webmaster.

[Mongoose39uk]

I've now had a little time to collect my thoughts, not just pick up the pieces, as it were. I'd like to propose StuartP, who is currently our (co-opted) webmaster.


Seconded

[Bill D (wwh)]

Update:

Chairman:

*Bill D (wwh) - proposed, seconded

Committee:

Jacobite - proposed, seconded
The Hornet - proposed, seconded
Eckington/dodgydaved - proposed, seconded
*mongoose39uk - proposed, seconded, accepted
studlyone - proposed, seconded, accepted
*Tiger-eyes - proposed, seconded
*Dave of The Wombles - proposed, seconded
*nobbynobbs - proposed, seconded
*StuartP - proposed, seconded

Those names marked with an asterisk are current holders of those positions, whether elected or co-opted.

[StuartP]

Seconded

Accepted.

[Bill D (wwh)]

I forgot to say - I accept.

Update:

Chairman:

*Bill D (wwh) - proposed, seconded, accepted

Committee:

*mongoose39uk - proposed, seconded, accepted
studlyone - proposed, seconded, accepted
*StuartP - proposed, seconded, accepted

Jacobite - proposed, seconded
The Hornet - proposed, seconded
Eckington/dodgydaved - proposed, seconded
*Tiger-eyes - proposed, seconded
*Dave of The Wombles - proposed, seconded
*nobbynobbs - proposed, seconded

Those names marked with an asterisk are current holders of those positions, whether elected or co-opted.

Please post here or PM me if I've made any mistakes.

[nobbynobbs]

More than happy to accept the nomination again :)

Like has been said it's nice that we have more activity this year and have more people nominated it can only benefit the GAGB. :cheers: :beer:

[Bear and Ragged]

If (when!) it gets to a vote, how do we know if we can vote or not?
-especially as GAGB now has 'open' forums.

[jacobite]

I'd be delighted to. One more lamb to the slaughter I guess.

Glad to hear that, Ian.
Tony has said it all, there is no "conflict of interest", if the two are kept separate.

[The Wombles]

Thanks for the nomination, happy to stand for election.

[studlyone]

Glad to hear that, Ian.Thanks Jacobite. I must say I enjoyed reading your message about declining to stand. It put a huge smile on my face :)

[Bill D (wwh)]

If (when!) it gets to a vote, how do we know if we can vote or not?
-especially as GAGB now has 'open' forums.
Sorry, Stuart's created a means of doing this but stupidly I forgot to include a link to it...

https://www.gagb.org.uk/forums/register.php

It's been tested by Stuart and me, but of course it is new so it's yet to be used for real - if anyone experiences any problems with it just PM me.

[Bill D (wwh)]

Ian (studlyone) has set things so that the original post in a thread now shows at the top of each page, and at his suggestion I'm now editing my OP in this thread to show the current status of nominations. So you can see how things stand simply by going to the top of any page here.

[PopUpPirate]

OK here's my votes for committee members, (dodgy dave previously submitted)...

Sandvika
Simply Paul
Fraggle69

I know at least one of the above 3 is deffo interested!!!

[Bill D (wwh)]

I've just noticed that Mattwaggie (Badger), who's on the existing committee, hasn't been nominated, so I nominate him now.

[nobbynobbs]

seconded for mattwaggie

[markandlynn]

Sandvika - seconded

[studlyone]

Sorry, Stuart's created a means of doing this but stupidly I forgot to include a link to it...

https://www.gagb.org.uk/forums/register.php

It's been tested by Stuart and me, but of course it is new so it's yet to be used for real - if anyone experiences any problems with it just PM me.I'll get that added to the sites navigation ssytem.
Ian

[fraggle69]

OK here's my votes for committee members, (dodgy dave previously submitted)...

Sandvika
Simply Paul
Fraggle69

I know at least one of the above 3 is deffo interested!!!

And it defo aint me, my dark metal pirate friend. :ph34r:

[Just Roger]

Seconded for Simply Paul

[The Hornet]

As I've been proposed and seconded I guess I ought to accept. After all, I seem to have spare time available these days, I can't think why! ;):)

[dodgydaved]

I also mailed Bill earlier to-day to accept nomination,

Cheers Guys,

Dave

:cheers::beer:

[studlyone]

Outstanding

[Wadders]

Well done chaps:applause:

[Mattwaggie]

seconded for mattwaggie

Nomination accepted

[Bear and Ragged]

Fraggle69.
Seconded.

[jacobite]

The quality of the candidate list is impressive! You could probably make two GAGB committees from it.

So................we never got all dressed up for nothing!
accepted.

[studlyone]

The list just gets better and better

[erik88L-R]

For some reason I can't log onto my old "Returning Officer" account (I get nasty messages that I've been banned and the ban will never end) so I created a new sock puppet account = erik88L-R.

It looks like there will be an election and I will have some votes to count this time around. In the US I would have posted my PayPal account info earlier, but I'm not sure what the convention is in the more civilized UK. :ohmy:

Cheers,

~erik~

[jacobite]

For some reason I can't log onto my old "Returning Officer" account (I get nasty messages that I've been banned and the ban will never end) so I created a new sock puppet account = erik88L-R.

It looks like there will be an election and I will have some votes to count this time around. In the US I would have posted my PayPal account info earlier, but I'm not sure what the convention is in the more civilized UK. :ohmy:

Cheers,

~erik~

It's ok, I've done a bit of research, I already know it :cheers:

[keehotee]

So who are all these people??
What have you all done to warrant being nominated, why should we vote for you, and what will you do (if elected) to justify your positions?

We, the vote-wielding geocaching public, demand to know...!!!!

[studlyone]

Apologies to those who nominated me but I have to withdraw my nomination due to being warned off to go to Canada mid November 08 only to return to the UK again at the end of March 09. With me being out of the country for such an extended period of time I feel that I would be unable to give the committee the time and attention that would be required as a committee member. This leaves me with no option other than to stand down.

I will however still be available online to help out with the site in the role of 'oiler of the servers cogs' if required.

Just got 18months left to serve of my 22 year engagement before being promoted to Civvy :wacko:, I should get some stability after that point LOL.

Ian

[ivanidea]

So who are all these people??
What have you all done to warrant being nominated, why should we vote for you, and what will you do (if elected) to justify your positions?

We, the vote-wielding geocaching public, demand to know...!!!!


Or, put it another way, what does the committee do? :p

What would be expected of the mugs committee members? :D

[jacobite]

Apologies to those who nominated me but I have to withdraw my nomination due to being warned off to go to Canada mid November 08 only to return to the UK again at the end of March 09. With me being out of the country for such an extended period of time I feel that I would be unable to give the committee the time and attention that would be required as a committee member. This leaves me with no option other than to stand down.

I will however still be available online to help out with the site in the role of 'oiler of the servers cogs' if required.

Just got 18months left to serve of my 22 year engagement before being promoted to Civvy :wacko:, I should get some stability after that point LOL.

Ian

Sorry to hear that, Ian. Still, I'm sure geocaching will be around when you get back :cheers:

[The Hornet]

So who are all these people??
What have you all done to warrant being nominated, why should we vote for you, and what will you do (if elected) to justify your positions?

We, the vote-wielding geocaching public, demand to know...!!!!

Or, put it another way, what does the committee do? :p

What would be expected of the mugs committee members? :D
I can't speak for everyone nominated but I know two of the people have had several years of experience "behind the scenes" and have tried during that period to represent the interests of Geocaching in the UK. They also have a fairly good knowledge of how things are done at Geocaching Headquartes in Seattle (hey that's GCHQ! I never thought of that before :ph34r::)) Since April they now find they have more time on their hands than previously.

Added to that they now have an extra big dollop of hearty cynicism to temper any youthful enthusiasm on the part of other committee members ;);)

As for the duties of the committee, you'll have to ask the current crew that.

[Matrix]

So who are all these people??
What have you all done to warrant being nominated, why should we vote for you, and what will you do (if elected) to justify your positions?

We, the vote-wielding geocaching public, demand to know...!!!!

You forgot to mention how much each candidate is going to pay to bribe vote-wielding geocaching public :ph34r:





:cheers:

[studlyone]

Sorry to hear that, Ian. Still, I'm sure geocaching will be around when you get back :cheers:Thanks hopefully they enjoy looking for plastic boxes in the bushes in Canada ;) so I should be alright over there, not that there are many bushes on the Alberta Pariaries anyway and if they were I doubt I'd see them under 5 feet of snow LOL. I might have to invest in a new scarf as it'll be -40oC with the wind chill in the middle of winter :wacko:

[Tiger-Eyes]

Thanks for the nomination but I'm afraid I will have to refuse this year :(. I have recently started work after 8 years and and now finding juggling work and children as well as the various taxi sevices for clubs leaves me very little time for geocaching and GAGB. With more people accepting nominations, now seems like the perfect time to bow out gracefully, for those who step in, the GAGB committee are a great bunch of people who are a pleasure to work with. Thanks guys for having me this last 2 years :).

[dodgydaved]

So who are all these people??
What have you all done to warrant being nominated, why should we vote for you, and what will you do (if elected) to justify your positions?

We, the vote-wielding geocaching public, demand to know...!!!!

Strangely enough, Tim, someones asked this of me in a post the other day. I know Peter has alluded, below, to our past in this field, but I share with you the gist of my reply to the email mentioned above. The quotation is somewhat edited as it dealt with specific issues which are irrelevant to the present discussion - however I think it explains my general feelings/philosophy.

"I feel much of the strength of the GAGB is in the way it can facilitate landowner issues and provide a medium through which UK cachers can freely debate caching issues without let or hindrance, and whilst not solving problems it can, through the wide audience this forum draws, bring those debates to the attention of others.
I firmly believe that GSP is now managed in such a way that nothing done or said by a small group of members in UK will have any effect on their philosophy. They appear to care for very little about customer relations and I feel that there is little to change this. This is especially true as the up and coming generation of UK cachers only know about the way things are now and care little for the past. The new names on the forum since April, the viewpoints they have voiced and the way the new moderation team appears to monitor issues seems very alien to the way things used to be. My appeal to GSP was to allow the sport to evolve not stagnate – and this is what it appears to have done, in a sort of negative way.

I also think that there is plenty of discussion of other listing sites on the GAGB forum – and though that discussion evokes only a limited response it leads to a far healthier debate than the denial of the existence of those sites which can occur elsewhere.

I tried to support UK cachers as best I could for 4 years and, whilst some disagreed with my decisions (and, frankly I also diagreed with some of the decisions I was constrained to make) , most were appreciative and virtually all were undestanding.. If I can continue to support the community through GAGB I will do so to the best of my ability"


I hope this is the sort of explanation/philosophy you were looking for.


Cheers Guys,


Dave


:cheers: :beer:

[keehotee]

Thanks Dave

I wasn't being deliberately antagonistic at all - just doing the David Dimbleby bit for any newcomers. :D:rolleyes:

Ohh - and anybody else that didn't know who or what anybody was/is/does.....:rolleyes:;):)

[dodgydaved]

Thanks Dave

I wasn't being deliberately antagonistic at all - just doing the David Dimbleby bit for any newcomers. :D:rolleyes:




Pas de problemo, this I realised:socool::socool:

[Bill D (wwh)]

Who are GAGB and what do we do? Well, we aim to negotiate blanket agreements with landowners, and maintain a comprehensive database of blanket agreements, whether agreed by us or by others. We liaise between landowners, cachers and gc.com under the terms of some of those agreements.

We aim to provide help and support to cachers, whether it be in getting started, in negotiating permission for a cache or for a blanket agreement, or any other caching matters they may need assistance with.

We are often contacted by the media, and we try to either provide them with the information they want or put them in touch with someone in their area who's willing to be interviewed by them.

We provide a telephone contact number which any UK cacher can use in their caches, whether a member of GAGB or not. We pass on messages from that number to the cacher concerned, and in the rare cases where we're contacted by a landowner who's unhappy about a cache placed on their land without permission, we try to resolve the issue amicably.

We provide forums (obviously!) where cachers can discuss caching and pretty well anything else too, with as little moderation as possible, and recently we (or more specifically Ian) have provided some additions to these forums to ensure you spend as much time on your computer as possible...!

Ok, that's pretty much what GAGB's about, though I'm sure I've missed things.

As to me, what do I personally put into it? Well, I liaise between gc.com, individual cachers and the Forestry Commission in Dorset and in the New Forest, under blanket agreements we have with them. I respond to some of the emails that are sent to the committee address, and to the many emails and PMs that are sent to me personally, from cachers, landowners and the media.

Until recently I and Fiona (Tiger-eyes) manually checked out validating members, but at the moment we're testing a new system of automatic validation - the issue with validating members is that some are not bona fide cachers but would-be spammers signing up to post commercial stuff in the forums, much of it far from family-friendly.

I, and the rest of the committee, stay in regular contact through a list email address, and we try to be aware of current caching issues and provide whatever input or help we deem appropriate. We also have occasional teleconferences.

I check the spam filter on the committee email address as often as I can, usually two or three times a day, as occasionally genuine messages get trapped there.

At this time of year, I arrange the annual elections, and try to publicize them as widely as possible (which should bring a wry smile to those of you who've been around for a few years!).

I do some maintenance of the content of our website, making changes to the text on webpages when appropriate and so on, and to the GLAD, the landowner agreement database, though right at the moment we've got database problems there so changes are just going onto a list, to be made when we're able to.

And I try to resolve the occasional access problems that individuals experience with our forums, for example resetting lost passwords and so on.

And of course, as Chairman, I do my best to hold together the raggle-taggle bunch we call the committee, lol...! :D

Anyway, again I've probably missed things, but that should give some idea of what I do.

If anyone's got any specific questions feel free to ask.

[nobbynobbs]

Shame to hear that you've been called away Ian, but thank goodness that you're still going to have web access to carry on helping :)

Good luck fiona.


As regards what I have been doing on the committee? Well I try to reply to as many of the email requests that come in for additional help or information as I can. Giving them info on the hobby or putting them in contact with other cachers who are able to help with specific requirements.

I liase with the Hampshire Wildlife trust with regards the agreement we have with them, hopefully I'll be able to use this as a blueprint to cover other wildlife trusts.

I've tried to liase with the powers that be and be a eloquent spokesperson for the UK community on both our and the dark side forums.

When I originally joined the committee we had a teleconference where we all discussed what jobs needed doing and which of us was able to do each with the most efficiency. We've all done those jobs and discussed between us to resolve other issues that have raised themselves and helped each other out with various tasks. The real test is if you have any idea what we do then we've not been doing it very well, ie. we've sorted the problems and requests before they've appeared to everyone else.

:beer:

[Bill D (wwh)]

My last post was rather long, and I forgot this bit...

Ian and Fiona, I'm sorry to hear that you're not able to stand, but I'd like to echo Matt's comments for both of you above...! :)

[studlyone]

Thanks Matt and Bill, my plans for world domination will just have to go on the back shelf for a year Mwuahhhhhhhhh........:cool:

I look forward to being able to support the GAGB from behind the scenes, ensuring that the site continues to develop to cater for the increased membership. I'll turn my attentions to the land agreement database issues next.

[Bill D (wwh)]

Thanks Matt and Bill, my plans for world domination will just have to go on the back shelf for a year Mwuahhhhhhhhh........:cool:

I look forward to being able to support the GAGB from behind the scenes, ensuring that the site continues to develop to cater for the increased membership. I'll turn my attentions to the land agreement database issues next.
Ian, thanks for that, and would you believe I was just about to email you about that database...! :)

And, well, what's a year's wait when it leads to world domination...! :D

[The Wombles]

Or, put it another way, what does the committee do?


That's a good question.


My main role is negotiator of landowner agreements, including negotiating new agreements, providing support and maintenance on the existing agreements of which I personally negotiated 12 (successfully), and supporting other cachers applying for their own permissions whether generic or specific.

For example, I originally led the negotiation for the first major turn-round of a major landowner, the New Forest Forestry Commission, which had removed all caches on their property before we approached them. It took a year to get permission; this permission and the discussions with FC HQ has enabled many other Forestry Commission permissions to follow. I received the 13 removed caches back in several bin bags but wasn't allowed to log them :ph34r:


I also provide knowledge and experience of the history of the GAGB and caching, having been a cacher since 2001 and one of the founder members of GAGB.

[sandvika]

Thank you to PopUpPirate and MarkandLynn for proposing and seconding my nomination to the Committee. After further deliberation, I have decided to accept.

If my enquiring emails about perceptions of need for change in GAGB have led directly or indirectly to our esteemed former Groundspeak reviewers thinking they'd better stand for election then I'm delighted and I can already say that a minor mission has been accomplished :D I'm delighted that there will be an election this year and am myself a Parish Councillor because actions speak louder than words and the democratic process is dear to me. De-facto reinstatement of the GAGB committee would be less rewarding to them than proper re-election. However, let's make it interesting.

George Bernard Shaw said "The reasonable man adapts himself to the world; the unreasonable man persists in trying to adapt the world to himself. Therefore all progress depends on the unreasonable man."

We see plenty of evidence at the GAGB of unreasonable people persisting in their endeavours to obtain permission to cache and long may this continue.

However, since shortly after joining GAGB, I have felt that the organisation has not lived up to its name because it has adopted a one-dimensional view of our hobby in aligning itself so specifically to landowner permissions. I'm also aware of several members of the forum (some declared, others not) who don't feel that they want to be members: this alludes to GAGB being misaligned with its potential membership.

I think collectively, we are missing a significant opportunity - ours is a young hobby that should be able to foster innovation and diversity, however, there is not a lot of this going on. In my view, the appropriate nurturing should come from a country association. The GAGB should adopt a multi-faceted approach to our hobby.

Dave Draycott identifies new members on GC.com as being a tacit inhibitor to change, because they have not known anything different. However, I'd like to suggest that this need not be a foregone conclusion. Organisations thrive when there's growing membership and fresh thinking: let's channel it through GAGB!

If GAGB adopted a leadership position and acted as advocate for our hobby on behalf of our membership, then our hobby could be promoted and grow more rapidly and we, as a country association, would earn the attention and respect of our various suppliers. When people in Britain are introduced to caching, the authoritative source of information they seek should be GAGB, not one or other of the cache listing sites.

So, by seeking your votes in this election, I am presenting myself as an unreasonable man who wants to expand the remit of GAGB steadily, so GAGB can become to cachers what the Ramblers' Association is to ramblers and the Inland Waterways Association is to boaters. I think this could provide a significant change for the better.

Thanks for your attention and support. If you would like me to clarify or elaborate, please get in touch.

Roderick Parks (sandvika) sandvika.caching@googlemail.com

[dodgydaved]

Dave Draycott identifies new members on GC.com as being a tacit inhibitor to change, because they have not known anything different.


I fear I may not have stated my feelings clearly enough.

What I said was:

"This is especially true as the up and coming generation of UK cachers only know about the way things are now and care little for the past. The new names on the forum since April, the viewpoints they have voiced and the way the new moderation team appears to monitor issues seems very alien to the way things used to be. My appeal to GSP was to allow the sport to evolve not stagnate – and this is what it appears to have done, in a sort of negative way."

The advent of newer members of the GSP caching community has not been a tacit inhibitor of change at all. I meant to suggest that current GSP policies, together with other changes within the way the community is regulated have together allowed the sport to move onwards, but in a way that I did not particularly like and, it seemed to me - albeit paradoxically - to be retrogressive.

This was a personal opinion, with foundation in my own non-scientific observations.

[markandlynn]

so GAGB can become to cachers what the Ramblers' Association is to ramblers and the Inland Waterways Association is to boaters. I think this could provide a significant change for the better.

Thanks for your attention and support. If you would like me to clarify or elaborate, please get in touch.

Roderick Parks (sandvika) sandvika.caching@googlemail.com (sandvika.caching@googlemail.com)

Id add what the BMC is to climbers. (lots of simialrities acces, negotiations with landowners, responsible behaviour, codes of UK conduct, crag clean ups etc.)

http://www.thebmc.co.uk/Category.aspx?category=1

http://www.ramblers.org.uk/campaigns/

http://www.waterways.org.uk/Ourwork

Links for the google shy amongst you :beer:

[sandvika]

I fear I may not have stated my feelings clearly enough.

What I said was:

"This is especially true as the up and coming generation of UK cachers only know about the way things are now and care little for the past. The new names on the forum since April, the viewpoints they have voiced and the way the new moderation team appears to monitor issues seems very alien to the way things used to be. My appeal to GSP was to allow the sport to evolve not stagnate – and this is what it appears to have done, in a sort of negative way."

The advent of newer members of the GSP caching community has not been a tacit inhibitor of change at all. I meant to suggest that current GSP policies, together with other changes within the way the community is regulated have together allowed the sport to move onwards, but in a way that I did not particularly like and, it seemed to me - albeit paradoxically - to be retrogressive.

This was a personal opinion, with foundation in my own non-scientific observations.

Thanks for elucidating, Dave. Whether it be regression or stagnation, I think we share the view that the converse is sought!

[Icenians]

Sorry, Stuart's created a means of doing this but stupidly I forgot to include a link to it...

https://www.gagb.org.uk/forums/register.php

It's been tested by Stuart and me, but of course it is new so it's yet to be used for real - if anyone experiences any problems with it just PM me.

It would appear I'm unable to join via this link. It says welcome '' (No username) and informs me I'll get an email, which I don't :)

Can someone take a look?

Ta

[Bill D (wwh)]

It would appear I'm unable to join via this link. It says welcome '' (No username) and informs me I'll get an email, which I don't :)

Can someone take a look?

Ta
I've only just seen this. There should now be an email on its way - if you don't receive it please post again. :)

[StuartP]

As a co-opted member of the committee what do I do:

- Provide technical support for the running of the forums and website.

- Migrated to the current forum software from the previous bug ridden forums.

- Run the server that hosts the GAGB website, forums.

Changes I'd like to introduce:

- As others have suggested, I see the GAGB as being bigger than the role it currently plays, there is no reason why it can't become akin to the ramblers association etc. To this end I'd like to see the GAGB move in the following direction , from 'non-commercial' to 'not for profit' to 'charitable status'

- Change the structure of the GAGB committee to allow more flexibility, and a structure more in-line with the effort required , this will include more 'defined' roles within the committee structure.

- Improve the financial standing of the GAGB to allow it to cover it's running costs (YES we do have running costs, covered, only just by donations from a few members)

- See the GAGB running events to attract new members to both the GAGB and geocaching, working with for example the National Trust to introduce gecaching to its visitors.

- Looking at ways to allow the GAGB to access other organisations to raise the profile of the 'pastime, sport, hobby' , we currently handle many requests from the media for people to talk on local, and national radio.

- Increase liason with commercial organisations to promote geocaching in the UK, a classic example of this would be the recently run promotion by Garmin, as it was run as a UK promotion, whom in the UK did they approach ? The obvsious answer should be the GAGB however this wasn't the case.

[Mongoose39uk]

OK, I guess it is about time I said a little about me......


Found my first cache in December 2003 on my way to my last day working in a job I really was not enjoying. I was looking for something to make my main hobby at the time of hill walking more interesting. I am still looking for micros in Ivy Covered Trees, so I think I may have found it.


This last year has not been a very active caching year for me, just the odd one hear and there plus a very enjoyable trip to the mega event. I really didn't have much opportunity this year, I was caring for my parents, both have passed away now within a couple of weeks of each other (one two hours after I got back from the mega event) in between my flat burnt down so have been busy moving and sorting their affairs out etc. I can honestly say that people in the caching community were a great help during this time, even gave up some time to come and help me move. A great community overall even though it can get heated on the forums etc.


What do I do in the GAGB?


Mostly I deal with enquiries that have been hanging around for a couple of days and no one else has dealt with, anything from finding someone to help a new cacher, dealing with reporters etc. Also liaising with the reviewers about issues around dry stone walls and access. Mostly its about trying to put people in touch with the person most likely to be able to help them. A couple of other projects along there that may or may not happen in the future. Things that I hope will benefit the caching community but the parties involved do not want to go public yet.



Oh and I went on the scrounge for money for new forum software when we were constantly being taken down, vaguely remember asking Stuart if he would help out as well, I wonder if he will ever forgive me ;)

[keehotee]

OK, I guess it is about time I said a little about me......


Found my first cache in December 1993 on my way to my last day working in a job I really was not enjoying.

Professional time traveler, perhaps? :rolleyes::rolleyes:

[erik88L-R]

Professional time traveler, perhaps?

Just a man ahead of his time. ;)

~erik~

[Simply Paul]

While I used to love it, I'm not feeling very pro-caching (and positively anti-Groundspeak, who effectively 'own' caching) at the moment, so while the nomination is appreciated, I'm going to respectfully decline this time. Best of luck with the elections and I'm sure the committee will get people with the right commitment for their roles. It's a shame for me that my enthusiasm just isn't there, but better I acknowledge this rather than accept a position my heart isn't in, in the hope that it comes back.

[active cacher]

Professional time traveler, perhaps? :rolleyes::rolleyes:

After such a lovely heartfelt post regarding Mongoose39's involvement with GAGB, all that Keehotee had to say was this?
Poor, I just think that's very poor.:mad:

[active cacher]

And I would just like to say thank you to Mongoose39uk and to all the other members, (past present and proposed) of the GAGB for everything that they do to oil the wheels and keep things moving forward.
Thank you! :applause: :applause:

[Mongoose39uk]

After such a lovely heartfelt post regarding Mongoose39's involvement with GAGB, all that Keehotee had to say was this?
Poor, I just think that's very poor.:mad:

Ta but I certainly didn't take any offence.

Cheers

Tony

[Bill D (wwh)]

This is just a reminder that nominations for the position of Chairman end at midnight tomorrow (Sunday).

---
Bill, Chairman GAGB

[erik88L-R]

Midnight has come and gone, so no further nominations for the position of chairman will be taken.

~erik~

[erik88L-R]

:applause:

As there were no further nominations for Chairman, Bill returns unopposed.

:applause:

Congratulations on that vote of confidence. Or I could say he again won by default: de fault of no else wanting the job. :p

~erik~

[jacobite]

Congratulations Bill. I think the fact that you were unchallenged is a huge vote of confidence :cheers:

[nobbynobbs]

Well done. :cheers:

[Mongoose39uk]

Congratulations Bill

[The Hornet]

Excellent result. Keep up the good work Bill.

[t.a.folk]

:):applause:

[Brenin Tegeingl]

Congratulations Bill, the position of Chairman is in safe hands for another year :applause::cheers:

[studlyone]

Congratulations Bill, I honestly can't think of a better man for the job :cheers::applause:

[Bill D (wwh)]

Thank you Erik for your announcements, thank you folks for your congratulations, and thank you to the members of GAGB for putting up with me for another year! :cheers:

[The Wombles]

Bill, thanks for another year of Chairing GAGB and thanks in advance for next year too!

[Us 4 and Jess]

GAGB's annual elections are due to take place in November.

The election for the post of Chairman will begin at midnight on Sunday 9th and end at midnight on Sunday 16th.

Did I miss something here, or are you lot a week a head of me :eek:

Ah tis OK I am with ya now, no one stood against Bill so he was automatically put back where he should be :D well done Bill :applause:

OK stupid question time ... :dunno:

On the 16th November when we vote for the committe

How many do we vote for?

And do we just send an email with 3/4/5/ however many names on that we choose to Bill? :rolleyes:

5 am time for bed :eek:

[Bill D (wwh)]

OK stupid question time ... :dunno:

On the 16th November when we vote for the committe

How many do we vote for?

And do we just send an email with 3/4/5/ however many names on that we choose to Bill? :rolleyes:

From the constitution: E. 2. Every voting member shall have one vote.

Yes, you do send an email, but to Erik, our Returning Officer, not to me. I shan't know any more than anyone else about how the candidates are doing until the end of the election.

I'll be posting full instructions nearer the date.

[sandvika]

From the constitution: E. 2. Every voting member shall have one vote.

Yes, you do send an email, but to Erik, our Returning Officer, not to me. I shan't know any more than anyone else about how the candidates are doing until the end of the election.

I'll be posting full instructions nearer the date.

I think this is an interesting point where the constitiution could benefit from being made more specific. Since there is a small electorate there is a chance of 2 or more candidates obtaining an equal number of votes on a "first past the post" system. Thus, it would seem to me that a transferable voting system such as Single Transferable Vote (http://www.electoral-reform.org.uk/article.php?id=51) would be appropriate to allow preferences to be taken into account. This is the method often preferred by mutual/charitable organisations that have elected boards/committees.

[Alan White]

I'm not a member of GAGB so my view on the voting system it chooses is irrelevant, but please, please don't ever use a STV or any similar proportional system. They are incomprehensible and never return a useful result. Look at Italy :).

[sandvika]

I'm not a member of GAGB so my view on the voting system it chooses is irrelevant, but please, please don't ever use a STV or any similar proportional system. They are incomprehensible and never return a useful result. Look at Italy :).

For once Alan, I disagree with you completely :D. If you want a fair system, it has to be proportional. If you want an unfair system where votes don't count equally, choose "first past the post", or if you want a binary system, use an "electoral college" system where the eventual outcome bears little relation to the votes cast and people living in vast swathes of the country are disenfranchised and may as well not bother voting at all. The extreme example of the "electoral college" appeared in George Orwell's "1984". Not a coincidence. If you want to discuss social anthropology in the context of emergent democratic systems then I'd love to, in another thread ;)

[Alan White]

If you want a fair system, it has to be proportional.And if you want things to get done, it has to not be proportional :D. But seriously, I don't have a problem with proportional voting per se, just the convoluted and incomprehensible systems that sometimes get proposed. And even used.

But you're right: this isn't the place (unless and until GAGB decide to change their voting system and I'm a member).

[Bill D (wwh)]

Since there is a small electorate there is a chance of 2 or more candidates obtaining an equal number of votes on a "first past the post" system.
I'm all too aware of that. I've said before that I'd like to see a number of changes to our constitution, and something addressing that situation is one of them. If the situation does occur this year, then I'll put it to the definitely elected committee and then to the membership, but I think the fair interim solution would be a second election for those candidates who'd tied.

[sandvika]

I'm all too aware of that. I've said before that I'd like to see a number of changes to our constitution, and something addressing that situation is one of them. If the situation does occur this year, then I'll put it to the definitely elected committee and then to the membership, but I think the fair interim solution would be a second election for those candidates who'd tied.

I guess that would be one way of doing it, however, those participating in a second election to resolve a tie, having voted for someone else in the first election would have two votes in total, whereas those who had voted for the tied candidates first time round would retain just the one vote and the ability to leave it as previously or change their allegiance. This disparity would be contrary to the constitution.

On the other hand, the reallocation of excess votes under STV is effectively a second election, whilst ensuring that everyone has exactly one vote, consistent with the constitution.

Since it does not specify the voting system to be used, only the number of votes allowed, the constitution, as it stands, actually allows sufficient latitude to ensure that there cannot be a tie, just as there cannot really be a joint FTF on a cache :D

Given the great enthusiasm over the nominations, some members have nominated more members than they can vote for, which seem to indicate a disconnect between expectations and reality. So I'd suggest the whole process needs to be specified more precisely in a revised constitution.

Irrespective of the outcome of the committee election, I would be pleased to offer assistance in improving this part of the constitution. I've had a keen interest in electoral fairness for over 25 years however the discussion of the reasons for this is outside the scope of this thread!

[uktim]

For once Alan, I disagree with you completely :D. If you want a fair system, it has to be proportional. If you want an unfair system where votes don't count equally, choose "first past the post", or if you want a binary system, use an "electoral college" system where the eventual outcome bears little relation to the votes cast and people living in vast swathes of the country are disenfranchised and may as well not bother voting at all. The extreme example of the "electoral college" appeared in George Orwell's "1984". Not a coincidence. If you want to discuss social anthropology in the context of emergent democratic systems then I'd love to, in another thread ;)

How does proportional make any difference when the entire membership are voting for membership of a single national commitee :confused:

Surely first past the post is the only sytem that is needed?

[sandvika]

How does proportional make any difference when the entire membership are voting for membership of a single national commitee :confused:

Surely first past the post is the only sytem that is needed?

Let me describe with a very contrived example. The reality would certainly be less extreme. Let's say there are 9 candidates (A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H, I) and 5 committee positions (as is the case here). Let's suppose that the popularity and profile of the candidates is such that A is twice as popular as B, B is twice as popular as C, C is twice as popular as D etc, in terms of how the votes are cast. Aside from that, each candidate receives their own vote, that of their proposer and that of their seconder.

The outcome of the election based on the single votes is:

A receives 12 votes
B receives 6 votes
C, D, E, F, G, H and I receive 3 votes each.

Which 5 candidates are elected? With "first past the post" system that dilemma is a possible outcome. If you went on to have a second round of voting just for C, D, E, F, G, H and I the 21 people who voted for them in the first place would still have their one vote, whereas the 18 who voted for A and B would have a second vote and in effect determine the outcome, the other 21 voters being disenfranchised.

However, since there are 5 committee seats, a candidate only needs to get 20% of the vote to be elected. The rest of their votes are "spare".
In this election there were 39 votes, so 8 votes are all that are needed to exceed 20%. In the STV system, only A has 8 votes, so only A is elected in the first round. A has 4 "spare" votes. All 12 of A's voters' second choice candidates are awarded 4/12 of a vote, A retaining the 8 needed to be elected. B receives 6 * 4/12, C receives 3 * 4/12, D receives 2 * 4/12, E receives 1 * 4/12 (by virtue of the supposed popularity of the candidates).

So, after further consideration:

B receives 6 votes + 24/12 votes = 8 votes
C receives 3 votes + 12/12 votes = 4 votes
D receives 3 votes + 8/12 votes = 3 2/3 votes
E receives 3 votes + 4/12 votes = 3 1/3 votes
F, G, H and I receive 3 votes each.

So B has been elected but has no spare votes. Now you can already see which 5 candidates would be elected because of the contrived popularity ratios used for the example.

What actually happens in the STV system is that any spare votes B has get reallocated. As it's not enough to get any other candidate to the 8 votes required, the candidates with the fewest votes are then eliminated progressively, with their votes being reallocated according to the 2nd, 3rd, 4th etc preferences of their voters. In this example, F, G, H and I are all eliminated as they tie for bottom place and there are no longer more candidates than committee places, so the process ends there.

Thus, the end result is that the 5 candidates that are elected are those proportionally most popular amongst the electorate. Everyone's votes counted - both the "spare" votes from the most popular candidates and the "lost" votes from the elimination least popular candidates are reallocated according to voters' preferences, so no votes are "wasted".

From the voter's perspective, all that is required in voting is to rank the candidates in order of preference (1, 2, 3, 4 etc) not ranking those that you would not want to see elected under any circumstances. I'd suggest it's an easier choice to make than when you are faced with 9 outstanding candidates but can only cast your one vote for one of them!

I hope that's helpful.

[uktim]

Let me describe with a very contrived example. The reality would certainly be less extreme. Let's say there are 9 candidates (A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H, I) and 5 committee positions (as is the case here). Let's suppose that the popularity and profile of the candidates is such that A is twice as popular as B, B is twice as popular as C, C is twice as popular as D etc, in terms of how the votes are cast. Aside from that, each candidate receives their own vote, that of their proposer and that of their seconder.

The outcome of the election based on the single votes is:

A receives 12 votes
B receives 6 votes
C, D, E, F, G, H and I receive 3 votes each.

Which 5 candidates are elected? With "first past the post" system that dilemma is a possible outcome. If you went on to have a second round of voting just for C, D, E, F, G, H and I the 21 people who voted for them in the first place would still have their one vote, whereas the 18 who voted for A and B would have a second vote and in effect determine the outcome, the other 21 voters being disenfranchised.

However, since there are 5 committee seats, a candidate only needs to get 20% of the vote to be elected. The rest of their votes are "spare".
In this election there were 39 votes, so 8 votes are all that are needed to exceed 20%. In the STV system, only A has 8 votes, so only A is elected in the first round. A has 4 "spare" votes. All 12 of A's voters' second choice candidates are awarded 4/12 of a vote, A retaining the 8 needed to be elected. B receives 6 * 4/12, C receives 3 * 4/12, D receives 2 * 4/12, E receives 1 * 4/12 (by virtue of the supposed popularity of the candidates).

So, after further consideration:

B receives 6 votes + 24/12 votes = 8 votes
C receives 3 votes + 12/12 votes = 4 votes
D receives 3 votes + 8/12 votes = 3 2/3 votes
E receives 3 votes + 4/12 votes = 3 1/3 votes
F, G, H and I receive 3 votes each.

So B has been elected but has no spare votes. Now you can already see which 5 candidates would be elected because of the contrived popularity ratios used for the example.

What actually happens in the STV system is that any spare votes B has get reallocated. As it's not enough to get any other candidate to the 8 votes required, the candidates with the fewest votes are then eliminated progressively, with their votes being reallocated according to the 2nd, 3rd, 4th etc preferences of their voters. In this example, F, G, H and I are all eliminated as they tie for bottom place and there are no longer more candidates than committee places, so the process ends there.

Thus, the end result is that the 5 candidates that are elected are those proportionally most popular amongst the electorate. Everyone's votes counted - both the "spare" votes from the most popular candidates and the "lost" votes from the elimination least popular candidates are reallocated according to voters' preferences, so no votes are "wasted".

From the voter's perspective, all that is required in voting is to rank the candidates in order of preference (1, 2, 3, 4 etc) not ranking those that you would not want to see elected under any circumstances. I'd suggest it's an easier choice to make than when you are faced with 9 outstanding candidates but can only cast your one vote for one of them!

I hope that's helpful.


You seem to be viewing a transferable vote as a form of proportional representation. To my eyes they are very different things. A transferable vote is a valid option, proportional representation makes absolutely no sense at all in this sort of election.

[sandvika]

You seem to be viewing a transferable vote as a form of proportional representation. To my eyes they are very different things. A transferable vote is a valid option, proportional representation makes absolutely no sense at all in this sort of election.

It seems there's ambiguity over terminology. We've only been discussing proportional voting systems. They are of course the cornerstone behind proportional representation in an assembly governed by groupings of representatives, however we have no such groupings.

STV happens to be a proportional voting system where you vote for individuals not groups, which it why it is often used for committee elections. The assistance it provides in terms of resolving ties fairly that could otherwise arise is what commends it.

I hope this disambiguation of proportional voting systems from proportional representation is helpful!

[PopUpPirate]

With caching getting ever larger, now might be a good time (perhaps) to increase the number of peeps on the committee anyway.

I'm sure those that have been nominated, seconded, and accepted, can be found a place within the echelons somehow :) It'd be a shame to lose their potential contribution :)

The other option would be allow them all onto the committee - there's certainly enough potential for the GAGB to double its ranks. Potentially in a secondary capacity... perhaps regional.

I'm just thinking that if there are people that are keen to help, it'd be a pity not to use their talents and sideline them.

:)

[jacobite]

If the candidate list up-to-date and correct (which I'm sure it is), it would seem that The Hornet has stood by his decision to bow out.....................:(

[Bill D (wwh)]

If the candidate list up-to-date and correct (which I'm sure it is), it would seem that The Hornet has stood by his decision to bow out.....................:(
Yes, the list is up to date.

[Bill D (wwh)]

With caching getting ever larger, now might be a good time (perhaps) to increase the number of peeps on the committee anyway.

I'm sure those that have been nominated, seconded, and accepted, can be found a place within the echelons somehow :) It'd be a shame to lose their potential contribution :)

The other option would be allow them all onto the committee - there's certainly enough potential for the GAGB to double its ranks. Potentially in a secondary capacity... perhaps regional.

I'm just thinking that if there are people that are keen to help, it'd be a pity not to use their talents and sideline them.

:)
We are bound by the terms of our constitution, and are limited to Chairman, five elected committee members, and two co-opted members. However, as I've said elsewhere, and perhaps in this thread too, once these elections are over I'd like to see a lot of changes made to our constitution. I think it served as a good starting point, but things have changed a lot since it was drawn up, and we've learned a lot, and a great deal in it is overdue for review.

[StuartP]

We are bound by the terms of our constitution, and are limited to Chairman, five elected committee members, and two co-opted members. However, as I've said elsewhere, and perhaps in this thread too, once these elections are over I'd like to see a lot of changes made to our constitution. I think it served as a good starting point, but things have changed a lot since it was drawn up, and we've learned a lot, and a great deal in it is overdue for review.

I'm 100% behind Bill here, I've been looking at possible changes to the constitution, and agree that a change to the committee structure is required.

Hopefully if re-elected I can work with Bill toward a revised constitution.

[Alan White]

I hope that's helpful.It's extremely helpful in proving my point that proportional systems are complicated :D. I don't understand any of that :confused:.

The general populace are disaffected with politics anyway. Using such a system merely serves to confuse as well. Or perhaps that's the idea?

But anyway, back to the GAGB election.

[sTeamTraen]

It's extremely helpful in proving my point that proportional systems are complicated :D. I don't understand any of that :confused:.

The general populace are disaffected with politics anyway. Using such a system merely serves to confuse as well. Or perhaps that's the idea?


In any case, the boffins have proved that it doesn't matter which system you choose, someone can muck it up: http://technology.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/tech_and_web/article5083087.ece

[The Wombles]

<snip>
Nominations will close at midnight exactly seven days before the start of the relevant election.
</snip>
Bill, Chairman GAGB

Bill is unwell but asked me to remind everyone that nominations for the committee are now closed.

I'm pleased to see that we're got a real election this year which will start next week. We'll post details of how to vote shortly.

[paul.blitz]

With caching getting ever larger, now might be a good time (perhaps) to increase the number of peeps on the committee anyway.

I'm sure those that have been nominated, seconded, and accepted, can be found a place within the echelons somehow :) It'd be a shame to lose their potential contribution :)

The other option would be allow them all onto the committee - there's certainly enough potential for the GAGB to double its ranks. Potentially in a secondary capacity... perhaps regional.

I'm just thinking that if there are people that are keen to help, it'd be a pity not to use their talents and sideline them.

:)
Experience at another organisation shows that keeping the formal committee size "limited" works a lot better: the smaller team is typically more able to arrange meetings when all will be there, meetings work better etc.

Ok, so you feel you need "bums on seats" to get things done?.... in that case the committee members act as a manager, and "subcontract" the work out.... but the "manager" still has the responsibility.

My 6 penneth (old penneth, at that!)


Paul

[Bear and Ragged]

Experience at another organisation shows that keeping the formal committee size "limited" works a lot better: the smaller team is typically more able to arrange meetings when all will be there, meetings work better etc.

Ok, so you feel you need "bums on seats" to get things done?.... in that case the committee members act as a manager, and "subcontract" the work out.... but the "manager" still has the responsibility.

My 6 penneth (old penneth, at that!)

Paul

Agree!
Keep the team small.
If more bodies are needed co-opt in until the job is done.

[Bill D (wwh)]

The voting procedure for the Committee election can be found here (https://www.gagb.org.uk/forums/showthread.php?t=1453)

[erik88L-R]

As the voting period for GAGB committee members has ended I've enumerated the votes and am honored to announce the five winners.

They are:

Dave of the Wombles
Jacobite
Mongoose39uk
Nobbynobbs
Sandvika

Congratulations!

~erik~

[Mongoose39uk]

Thanks for doing this Erik

[Haggis Hunter]

Congratulations to those who have been selected.
:cheers: :applause: :cheers:

[Bill D (wwh)]

Many thanks, Erik, for your announcement and for all the time you've put into this!

Congratulations to the new members of our committee, and to those who've been re-elected. My commiserations to those of you who weren't elected.

---
Bill, Chairman GAGB

[Brenin Tegeingl]

I'd like to to echo Bills words and send thanks to Erik for acting as the returning officer again (at least this year he had some work to do :D]

My Congratulations to the new members of the committee I'm looking forward to working closely with both of you, And to those who've been re-elected, on being able to continue working with you.

My commiserations to those of you who weren't elected, hopefully you will stand for election again next year.

Deci

[jacobite]

Many thanks to Erik for his time and effort as our returning officer. Congratulations to the successful candidates, and commiserations to those candidates that were not successful (I know that your valued work has been greatly appreciated).
And finally, thanks to the members who voted for me, I will work hard to justify that confidence.

[Bill D (wwh)]

Stuart Poulton (StuartP) has been co-opted joint webmaster for us for some time, and since the resignation of Steve Cole (penguinhunters) earlier this year has also been acting as treasurer.

I'm pleased to be able to announce that the new committee have co-opted Stuart back onto the committee in both those positions.

---
Bill, Chairman GAGB

[sandvika]

Many thanks to Erik for acting as returning officer and to everyone who voted in our election.

It is humbling to be elected to the committee, especially when it is acknowledged that there is important work to be done, such as amending the constitution. Thank you for your confidence, I will work hard with enthusiasm for you and make our forum my second home so that I'm in touch and accessible.

[Bill D (wwh)]

I'm pleased to announce that we've co-opted Ian (studlyone) back onto the committee, so we now have joint webmasters again.

---
Bill, Chairman GAGB

[Bill D (wwh)]

It's over a week since the elections ended, so I'm unpinning this thread. I'll leave it open though.