CLUB CONSTITUTION AND BYLAWS
(Amended Date:
December 2005)
ARTICLE I - Name and Purpose
Section 1: Name
This
club shall be known as “The Atlanta Tight Lines Bass Club” of
Section 2: Purpose
Its purpose shall be to stimulate public awareness of bass fishing as a major sport; to promote full adherence to all conservation codes; to improve our skill as bass anglers through fellowship of friendly exchange of expert bass catching techniques and ideas; to promote and encourage youth fishing and a love for this great recreation; to promote education, communication and brotherhood; to function as a dynamic and an effective link with other chapters embracing the principles and purposes of The Bass Federation (TBF).
ARTICLE
II – Membership
Section 1: Number of Members
The chapter will start with and maintain at least six (6) members. Membership will be limited to thirty (30) members. After full membership has established, the club will begin a waiting list. If at any time the club has a vacancy, such vacancy will be filled from the waiting list in the order that it was made. A boat owner may be given priority in filling the vacancy if the need arises to maintain the adequate number of boats needed to conduct tournaments.
Section 2: Qualifications for Membership.
Any person (male or female), who is interested in the objectives of the Atlanta Tight Lines Bass Club shall be considered a candidate for membership provided that he (or she):
a. Is of good moral character.
b. Voluntarily expressed a genuine interest in membership.
c. Be a member of the (TBF) The Bass Federation and FLW Outdoors.
d. Is recommended by a member at a regular monthly meeting.
e. Receives and reads the chapter bylaws and understands club purpose.
f. Files a written application and shall if approved by the required vote, becomes a member of The Atlanta Tight Lines Bass Club, upon the completion of following:
g. Any new member must show an understanding of these bi-laws before membership is granted (i.e. via test, open questioning at meeting or whatever means the club deems to be appropriate). If this prospective member cannot show somewhat of an understanding for the bi-laws, membership can be denied. (Amended Dec 2004)
1. Going through the orientation program (Article II, Section 5).
2. Signing the Constitution and Bylaws.
3. Paying $125.00 initiation fee and the current dues of $20.00 per month. All fees are to be paid in full 30 days after receiving acceptance letter.
Section 3: Manner of Election of Membership
a. Election to membership shall be by closed ballot.
b. Unanimous vote shall be required to elect an applicant for membership.
Section 4: Duties of Members
All members, under the penalty of suspension or dismissal, shall commit themselves to the accomplishments, goals, and endeavors of the Club; adhere, support and practice brotherhood, sportsmanship, fellowship, and the exchange of angling ideas and information.
Section 4A: Inactive Membership
A member who desires to become inactive must be in good standing and shall notify the club in writing of his intentions. Membership is kept intact by paying reduced dues of $5.00 per month or $60.00 annually.
Section 4B: Resignation
A member who resigns from the club must do so in good standing. If he or she elects to return to the Club, he or she will do so as a new member.
Section 5: Membership Orientation
a. Candidate shall come before the club and state why he desires membership in The Atlanta Tight Lines Bass Club.
b. Prospective member shall attend three monthly club meetings.
c. Candidate shall fish three monthly tournaments.
d. Candidate shall fish with three members in good standing. The three club members shall give a report on the prospective member at the fourth monthly meeting which shall include attitude, sportsmanship, reception to new ideas, bass fishing skills, teamwork, and willingness to share knowledge of fishing to all members without reservation.
e. If prospective member is voted into the membership, he will receive his Club uniform, Robert Rules of Order and be recognized by the Chair to take the floor or vote.
f. Adhere to the Organization's code of conduct.
Section 6: Code of Conduct
a. No alcoholic beverages during club functions.
b. Illegal drug use is prohibited.
c. Use of profanity during club functions is prohibited.
d. Only spouses and family are allowed on club functions (single members may invite his/her guest).
e. No verbal or physical threats to any member.
f. No arguing or disorderly conduct in public.
g. During club tournaments, each member will travel in the Lunker Train Convoy, unless circumstances dictate otherwise.
h. Club members traveling in the convoy must have an operational CB in their vehicle and must observe the laws of the FCC and of the state.
i. No member shall deny another member access of his boat for the purpose of fishing during club tournaments.
j. A member who damages the equipment of another member shall accept the liability for such damaged equipment.
k. Members shall aid and assist fellow members during the launching and loading of boats.
1. Members shall demonstrate courtesy, respect, and sportsmanship at all times, i.e., cheating, etc.
m. During club functions, all members shall participate in all organizational functions which includes, but not limited to; eating breakfast and dinner together, taking pit stops together, traveling together to and from the tournament site, and lodging together.
n. Safety and protection of members and equipment should take precedent over club functions. (If a member is late due to safety reasons, which includes helping individuals in trouble or assisting on breakdowns on the lake, the late penalty will be waived).
o. Members shall not sow discord and/or division, but in everything, we promote brotherhood, fellowship, and sportsmanship.
p. The Club’s official or regulation uniform must be worn at all club functions that include monthly meetings, tournaments, outings, and all related Club functions. The uniform includes the hat, a white shirt or tee shirt, maroon vest, khaki pants and Robert Rules or Order.
q. No club events shall be
scheduled in conjunction with a holiday weekend.
ARTICLE III - Meetings
Section 1: Time and Place
One regular meeting shall be held the first Sunday of each month from January to December inclusive; however no meeting will be schedule in conjunction with a holiday weekend. The club shall determine the place and the hour.
Section 2: Nature of Meeting
Each meeting shall consist of business; the purpose of which shall be as follows:
a. To transact the business of the club.
b. To bear program reports.
c. To discuss important issues.
d. To receive reports from committees.
e. To share fishing knowledge and techniques.
Section 2A: Procedural Rules For Meetings
The rules set fourth in Robert's Rules of Order shall govern the Club in all meetings in which they are applicable and not in conflict with the provisions of the Constitution Bylaws.
Section 2B: Regular Meetings
a.
A
regular meeting of the Atlanta Tight Lines Bass Club shall be held the first Sunday
of each month at a time and place to be determined by the Club. However, no meeting will be
scheduled in conjunction with a holiday weekend.
b. All regular meetings will last no longer than two (2) hour. Amend 12-2001
c. A Quorum, consisting of at least three (3) Amended 12/2003 active members in good standing, will be
required for the transaction of the club's official business.
d. Active members in good standing are required to attend all regular meetings as a continual requirement for membership. Absences from a regular meeting must be relayed to the Secretary by advance notification to a club official or active member. A $5.00 penalty will be assessed and payable with current dues, if not forwarded in accordance with Article III, Section 4(a).
e. Notification of an absence by an active member in good standings shall constitute a waiver of voting rights on club business conducted during that meeting. The absent member's vote shall be tallied as abstained.
f. Additionally, the vote of members present at the beginning of a regular meeting, but departed at the time of voting on club business, will be tallied as abstained.
g. Any member that arrives five (5) or more minutes late for a regular meeting
forfeits his right to speak or participate in the meeting.
h. All members are required to have in their possession a copy of the Bylaws and a
copy of Robert’s Rules of Order in order to participate in the meetings.
Section 3: Special
Meetings
a. Special meetings shall be called by the President (upon request) by six members in good standings.
b. Three members shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of the club’s business; i.e. at least three (3) active members must be present.
c. Any member (desiring to resign from the club) shall present the resignation in writing.
Section 4: Membership Dues
a. The membership dues shall be $20.00 per month, due on the first Sunday of each month.
b. Any member, who is delinquent in the payment of his/her dues, if not current within 24 hours of the club’s monthly tournament, shall be ineligible for participation.
c. Once a member reaches 30 days past due we will only send one letter that explains the member is 30 days late. The letter will also state future dates and penalties if dues are still unpaid. (Amended December 2004)
d. If his/her dues are unpaid 45 days after they are due, he/she shall be declared
suspended.
e. If he/she remains delinquent after 60 days, his/her name is removed from the roll of members.
g. If member is reinstated, a reinstatement fee of $25.00 will be charged and he shall be placed on probation for 60 days before he can vote, take the floor, or speak at any meetings.
ARTICLE IV - DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURE
Section 1: Reprimand
Any member who is in violation of the below listed articles and sections will be issued a warning by the Executive Committee.
a. Violation of Article II, Section 6c.
b. Violation of Article II, Section 6d.
c. Violation of Article II, Section 6f.
d. Violation of Article II, Section 6g.
e. Violation of Article II, Section 6h.
f. Violation of Article II, Section 6j.
g. Violation of Article II, Section 6k.
h. Violation of Article II, Section 6l.
i. Violation of Article II, Section 6m.
j. Violation of Article II, Section 6o.
k. Violation of Article II, Section 6p.
Section 2: Suspension
Any member who is suspended shall forfeit membership for 60 days and pay a fine of $25.00 upon reinstatement. The suspended member will not be allowed to participate in club functions, i.e., tournaments, meetings, nor any other activity. Violations of the below listed Articles and Sections will be reason for suspension.
a. Violation of Article II, Section 6a.
b. Violation of Article III, Section 4c.
Section 3: Automatic Suspension
Any member who is in violation of the below listed Articles and Sections shall not be entitled to an appeal.
a. Violation of Article II, Section 6e.
Section 4: Expulsion
Any member who is in violation of the following will be expelled from the Club without reinstatement. The expulsion is subject to appeal.
a. Fighting.
b. Delinquent dues of (60) sixty days.
c. Failure to comply with progressive discipline
d. Guilty of cheating in tournaments.
e.
Stealing
f.
Use of illegal drugs. (Amended December 2004)
Section 5: Appeal
If a member disagrees with the ruling of the Chair or the Executive Committee affecting any substantial question or issue he or she should not hesitate to appeal. A member in good standing must second appeal.
Section
6: Punishment
Punishment of members for violation of the provisions of the Constitution bylaws and other rules and regulations of the club shall be determined and imposed by the Executive Committee as outlined in Article IV.
Any
member in violation of club Bi-Laws, rules, regulations and tournament
infractions requiring disciplinary action must be placed on notice immediately.
Amend 12-2001
Section
7: Charges
Any member may present to the Executive Committee a charge against any member of a violation or infraction as set fourth in the Constitution Bylaws. All charges shall be set fourth to the Executive Committee in writing. The Executive Committee prior to consideration shall conduct a reasonable investigation concerning the charges. Prior to consideration of such charge against a member by the Executive Committee, an opportunity shall be given to the charged party in question to be present at the meeting of the Executive Committee at which such charges against the party are considered. The charged party may submit written consideration in lieu of appearing. Prior to the vote of the charges by the Executive Committee, the charged Party may make such defense against the charges as he desires provided it is lawful and reasonable.
ARTICLE
V - OFFICERS
Section
1: Titles
The officers of this Corporation shall be President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, and Tournament Director.
Section
I A. Executive Committee
The Executive Committee includes the President, Vice President, Treasurer, Secretary, and the Tournament Director. All Executive Members are either appointed or elected to office. The Executive Committee shall function as the directive body which guides and supervises the general membership. The Executive Committee discusses and decides items, which require decisions and do not require a vote of the general membership by the Constitution By-laws. Decisions of the Executive Committee are presented to the membership and are final unless challenged by a member. If challenged, a vote of the membership decides the issue. Use of the Executive Committee avoids long, heated membership arguments during regular meetings, thus allowing more time for pleasurable things like movies, guest speakers, etc.
The Executive Committee shall determine punishment of members, (in accordance with the disciplinary procedure in Article IV) who violate the provisions of the Constitution Bylaws and other rules, regulations, and codes of conduct of the Tight Lines Bass Club. The President may call an Executive Meeting at any time.
Section 2: Election and Tenure
All officers with the exception of Tournament Director, Club Reporter and Fishing Education Secretary (to be chosen by the elected president), shall be nominated from the floor, and elected by secret ballot at the first regular meeting in December. A majority vote shall be necessary to elect. When there is only one nominee for an office, he shall be elected by voice. All officers shall take office immediately at the close of the session in which they are elected.
Section
3: Eligibility
Any member of the club shall be eligible for election to any office provided that he:
a. Is in good standing.
b. Has been a member of the club for at least four (4) months except for the presidency which is six (6) months, Amended 12/2003.
c. Has shown and taken an active interest in all club functions.
d. Has participated in at least 75% of club functions i.e. tournaments, meetings and fundraisers, etc.
Section 4: Vacancies
In the event an office becomes vacant, nomination shall be required, and an election held to fill
the non expired term of the individual vacating the office. The member thus elected shall immediately assume responsibility for these duties and shall hold office until the next regular election.
Section 5: Duties of Officers
The Atlanta Tight Line Bass Club, shall elect/appoint the following officers who shall perform the general duties listed.
a. The President shall:
1. Preside at and supervise all meetings and official functions.
2. Call special meetings at his discretion as in Article III, Section 3(a).
3. Appoint all committees not otherwise provided for.
4. Make provisions for the discharge (members and their duties).
5. Sign all warrants on the treasury of the club.
6. See that the rules, regulations, and By-laws of the club are enforced.
7. Carry out assignments and instructions given to him by vote of the club.
8. To act as a tiebreaker on proposals that are split.
9. Perform other such duties that customarily pertain to the office of President.
a. The Vice President shall:
1. Assist the President in all matters and in his absence or disability, he shall assume the duties of the President.
2. Chair the conservation committee.
c. The Secretary shall:
1. Keep a record of the proceedings of all meetings.
2. Issue notices of meetings and agenda, after consultation with the President.
3. Maintain a current roster.
4. Conduct general correspondence of the club.
d. The Treasurer shall:
1. Collect all fees and dues.
2. Render an account each month (or as required) of receipts and expenditures.
3. Pay the bills of the club, and upon/warrants signed by the President.
e. The Tournament Director shall:
1. Chair the Fish-Off Committee.
2. Establish general rules and regulations for all tournaments.
3. Oversee and make final decisions in tournaments
4. Maintain tournament records.
5. Propose and present awards.
6. Levy and collect fines and penalties in the amounts authorized by the club for infringement of tournament rules, unless acceptable excuses are presented.
7. Interpret "tournament" rules.
f. Club Reporter:
1. Be provided a camera.
2. Be responsible for developing, securing and
maintain a historically log (ie : scrap book) of all club events, including tournaments,
fundraisers, kid day, awards dinners, spouse’s dinners and picnics.
g. Fishing Education Secretary.
1. Responsible for developing a training schedule
for the year.
2. Work in conjunction with the officers to
coordinate with tournaments and
scheduled meetings.
3. To provide in advance the training schedule
(preferable 3 to 4 months in
advance), for guest speakers, seminars, etc.
ARTICLE VI - Committees
Section 1: Standing Committees
These are specifically named in the Bylaws and regularly elected (or appointed) for defined terms to perform particular assignments of a permanent nature. Such are the banquet committee, entertainment committee, etc.
Section 2: Special Committees
a. Those which are elected (or appointed) in accordance with the vote of an assembly to render a particular service of temporary character. If a committee gives an unsatisfactory report the question may be recommitted for further study, or referred to a new committee.
b. A committee that is intended to carry out some course of action shall be composed of persons favorable to the proposed action. On the other hand, if the committee is selected for deliberation on the investigation factions (or interest groups) in the organization, it is desirable that a committee consists of odd numbers (members) in order to prevent a tie vote.
Section
3: Chairmen and Meetings
A committee shall assemble at the call of the chairman, or at the summons of the assist, or any two members, if the Chairman is unable to perform his duty.
Section
4: Procedure in Committee Meetings
The procedure in committee meetings shall be more informal than the meeting of the entire body. However, rules of courtesy shall be observed.
ARTICLE
VII- Programs
Section 1: General Topics