Re: [Leica] LHSA President's Response

[LEICAMAN56@aol.com]

Hi Gang,

I think its time I put on my LHSA President's cap and set the record straight 
on the issue of VF Editor and Catalog Editor compensation.  Much has been 
said on the LUG here in the last 24 hours about this issue, much of it not 
correct.
I am sorry I have been unable to read much of the LUG traffic of late, as I 
am in the process of moving my business of the past 17 years to a new 
location.  In fact, the move is now entering a critical phase with getting 
tradesmen to show up and perform work as promised.  Anyway, enough of my 
problems.
The issue of compensation came up again at the LHSA board meeting in Chicago, 
as it has for the past several years.  The issue was discussed for well over 
an hour (the meeting lasted over 3 hours)! with many opinions expressed from 
all sides.  Finally, the issue was put to a vote, with Gary Todoroff making a 
motion to set aside the money for possible future payment.  There the matter 
rested for a day until word got out about the board's decision.  What 
followed was an unprecedented barrage of phone calls, letters, e-mails and 
faxes regarding the compensation issue.  I believe in all this 
correspondence, only one person opined that the editors should not be 
compensated.  Everyone else responded that it was unthinkable that we not 
compensate our two editors for the great work they do for our society.  I 
then felt compelled to canvas the new board regarding this issue 
(unfortunately, I was unable to reach Gary) and the overwhelming vote was to 
begin compensation with the year 2000 publications.
BTW, contrary to Mark Rabiner's tongue in cheek response, we do not 
intentionally ship members off in buses so we can hold the board meeting in 
private.  The board meetings are open to all and I invite every member to 
become involved in their society.  Attending the board meeting is one sure 
way to become involved.  It is too easy to criticize the actions of those who 
work hard for the society, while making no positive contributions themselves. 
 I challenge all LHSA members to become more involved in the society to make 
it more enjoyable for everyone.
Well, time to get off my soapbox and get back to work.
Look for a surprise in the next issue of Viewfinder which was mailed today.

Leically,

Bill Rosauer