[Businessmtg] Show of hands

[Apryl Schneider]

Just so I'm clear and since no one in opposition has been able to put together a simple list:

Those who are for the show of hands seem to be relatively split on whether it should be done in straw poll fashion versus a website poll. The general reason for the poll is to assist the chair in determining whether a consensus has been reached. Since the goal of the BM is to reach substantial unanimity this is one approach to simplifying the meetings' ability to see when such has been reached. 

Those against the idea of a show of hands are against it for a variety of reasons ranging from objecting to the poll essentially being a secret ballot to practically forecasting the destruction of ASP and its policies. There is concern that offering up an internet poll is tantamount to asking for a preemptive vote and that the results would not be kept as the next poll would override the previous. 

I'm still unclear on whether we are in the fact finding portion or opinion portion as there has been a monster amount of opinion bandied about. In order to have a healthy meeting, regardless of the subject matter, everyone must be able to speak honestly. That becomes incredibly difficult when one's opinions are attacked. There is a marked difference between debating points and counterpoints and accusations. We've seen a TON of destructive dialogue this meeting and frankly, it's been difficult to pick through to to find the facts. I asked for a point and counterpoint list for the ease of the rest of the participants in casting their votes. Sadly, this is a fairly small agenda item and it's become something of an albatross. 

To those BM participants from whom we've not heard, please please please do NOT let the tone of this meeting stop you from participating. Your voice counts as well.  

Apryl