LWVMP President's Message
This month Jeanne Melaugh writes about the meaning of "program" in League jargon. February is the month to begin the League program planning process by participating in the unit (discussion) meeting at Mariposa Hall on Wednesday, February 20 at noon. We will discuss possible future national and local studies and issues that we would like to see emphasized for action.
Recommendations from the unit meeting go to the League Board for consideration in March. For local studies and "issues for emphasis", the Board must make recommendations for them to be considered at our annual meeting (convention) in May. Only programs sent forward from the Board, either as recommended or non-recommended items, may be considered at the annual meeting, i.e., a member can't propose a study that has not been through the process.
So, if you have an issue you think needs League attention, be sure to attend the meeting and present it for discussion. You can also submit your recommendation directly to the Board by the March Board meeting. Of course, a positive Board recommendation for a new study is influenced if there are volunteers willing to participate in studying the issue!
For national program planning, our League is already being lobbied for issues to be undertaken by LWVUS. We have our chance to influence the process by sending our recommendations by March 1 to the National Board, which like our local League Board, will make its recommendations for consideration by the delegates at the National Convention. Convention will be in Portland, Oregon from June 13 to the 17th.
I know this all sounds very bureaucratic; however, it assures members that the League has the resources - both financial and human - to implement grass-root recommendations.
Hope to see you February 20th.
Janet Brennan
