6/28/2013 2:06 PM
Hi Sean,
Please notice that I did not specify whom when I said make people accountable. Honestly, I have no personal opinion on the current performance of the BOD. In the interest of full disclosure I am a 54 year old guy who was once very involved in local associations and has served on national committees and also as a voting delegate. Over the past 12 years I have gradually disassociated myself with GCSAA to the point where if there was no GCSAA tomorrow I don't think I would be particularly affected. No single reason for my disaffection but I do belong to a strong local that, for the most part, serves my needs.
During my time of service I considered myself quite passionate about the Association and always was impressed if not re-energized by visits to Lawrence as a result of the professionalism and enthusiasm of staff. This is why I found the comments I have alluded to so stunning in that they were directed to a key department within the Association. Clearly, for such spontaneous and direct comments to be made (in any forum) suggests a tangible and systemic problem that must be corrected.
Historically, this forum has been a platform for members with a sense of advocacy; therefore I made the decision to toss out a comment in an effort to renew some of the passion that has existed here in the past. Obviously, I failed miserably.
Everyone knows what has happened in the last six years, there is no need to replay that reality. However, almost every one of us has had to get more creative, innovative, efficient, and self-sustaining to survive these changes. I guess at the end of the day the obvious question becomes do we have the necessary creative energy and expertise available and are we using all of the best resources to survive and even thrive given these challenges.