In September of 1900, a violent hurricane and tidal swell swept
over the city of Galveston, Texas, claiming thousands of lives.
In the mid 1880's, a similar hurricane had struck the coast south of
Galveston, and had wiped the town of Indianola off the map.
Following the Indianola tragedy, civic leaders in Galveston had
moved to construct fortifications along the Galveston shoreline. But
largely because of inefficiency in the structures and procedures of
city government, nothing was accomplished.
One week after the Galveston tragedy, an Army Civil Engineer
published a plan in the New York Herald for what was to become the
Galveston Seawall. That same man, General Henry M. Robert, has
become better known for building foundations and fortifications for
countless organizations around the world.
The common sense application of principles such as those in his
Robert's Rules of Order can help your organization grow and function
with fairness and efficiency. Often an experienced parliamentarian
can anticipate problem and help to avert trouble before it develops.
Inquiries are welcome - simple questions are often answered
without charge. If possible, please identify yourself and give as much
information as possible about your organization and the situation or
problem you are asking about.
Bill Stemmons, PRP
P.O. Box 20885, Village Station
Oklahoma City, OK 73156-0885
(405) 605-5665 --- fax:(405) 840-0061
E-mail: boardsandbylaws4@yahoo.com
Most organizational problems arise because of inefficiency or
because someone feels they have been treated unfairly. Our consulting
emphasizes both fairness and efficiency in organizational structures
and procedures. This tends to maximize active participation and
positive input from the membership.
We're also sensitive to the practical needs of association
management. Sound development of organizational structure and
procedures can help maintain wide support for management among
the membership.
Poorly written bylaws are a common problem that can needlessly
hinder management efficiency. A parliamentarian can assist your
bylaw revision committee or write a draft proposal for bylaws that
will promote both efficiency and fairness.
A parliamentarian can also assist with your annual meeting or
convention by preparing the presiding officer, assisting committee
chairmen, helping plan the business session, or teaching a workshop
for members or officers. The success of your organization may
begin with the work of an experienced professional parliamentarian.
" When there is no law,
but every man does what is right in his own eyes,
there is the least of real liberty."
- General Henry M. Robert
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