[Businessmtg] Beginner Packets

[Steve Rankin]

Hi ASPers,

I have several thoughts on this issue:

1. This is NOT a housekeeping issue. The definition of a housekeeping issue
is:

  "A motion of a routine nature dealing with administrative or purely formal
matters necessary to expedite House business."

This is not a routine issue or purely administrative issue. Instead, this is
a potentially complex issue that involves a previous group conscience of
ASP, finances, and how we wish to deal with the greater issue of newcomers.

Additionally, I have grave concerns with the thinking that we can undo a
previous group conscience requiring substantial unanimity (2/3's minimum)
with a housekeeping motion requiring a mere majority. That's a huge problem
of principle.


2. I don't see this as a black and white situation. The members of ASP can
chose to make whatever decision they wish. For example, we could decide to
table this, pending the newcomer committee. Frankly, I think Kim was spot-on
with the idea of leaving this issue to the newcomer committee. 


3. This issue should have come up long, long ago. Why not? Well, because the
Steering Committee has failed to report regularly to the Business Meeting as
required by Motion #4. 


4. ASP finances. As Jerry pointed out, ASP finances are not strong enough to
support this program. This points out a problem similar to #3 above - the
Treasurer is also required to make a report to the Business Meeting.


So, after having said all of that I'll note that . . .


A. I am for tabling this issue pending the outcome of the current motion on
the floor and the final report of the committee which is most likely to
result from that motion.  


B. I am requesting that the Steering Committee report to the this Business
Meeting and all future Business Meetings as required in Motion #4.


c. I am also requesting that the Treasurer provide a Treasurer's Report to
this Business Meeting and all future Business Meetings as required in Motion
#4.


Hugs,
Steve