AV News 196 - May 2014
C h a irm an 's C h a tte r
Keith Scott FRPS
Spring and Summer time is usually the quietest for
most AV groups and photographic societies,
however now is the time to plan for the busier
seasons ahead. For many members the RPS
International Festival held in September heralds the
start of their major AV season, and as always the
International Festival alternating on a bi-annual
basis with the National Festival affords an ideal
opportunity to hold the AV Group Annual General
Meeting. AGM's may not be everyone's idea of an
exciting event but they are very important, they
provide the membership with a platform where their
views can be aired and elect a new committee to
represent their interests throughout the following year. Generally AGM's are
rather short with just a few formal reports and elections, although our last
AGM held at Sutton Bonington must have been the longest and most
complex in living memory, with much debate about issues that had preceded
the Nationals.
At the forthcoming AGM our current Treasurer, Keith Brown FRPS, will of
necessity stand down from this role. Keith will have served eight consecutive
years which is the maximum time permissible under RPS rules. Keith is an
outstanding Treasurer who has diligently managed the Group finances in a very
professional and efficient manner. Whilst it is of course feasible for Keith to be
elected to another role within the committee it will nevertheless leave a vacancy
for Group Treasurer. For obvious reasons RPS rules do not permit special
interest groups to function without a Treasurer, so be advised, the Group is on
the lookout for a volunteer to fill this vital role.
Being Chairman of the RPS AV Group is an honour and a role that rightfully
carries expectations from the membership, and to which I've been fully
committed during my period of office. However due to family circumstances and
unforeseen additional family responsibilities I regret to announce that I shall not
be seeking re-election at the forthcoming AGM. The Group is fortunate in
having an admirable Vice Chairman, Howard Bagshaw ARPS. Many will know
Howard as an excellent photographer and AV producer, who also happens to
be a very constructive committee member and whose dedication to AV and the
AV Group is without question. Howard will have my full support as candidate
for Group Chairman.
The next 'National Festival' is due to take place in September 2015 and this
important festival now requires a fresh team to plan, organise, and run the
festival. Although this event may seem a long time away the planning process
does need to commence soon. Support will also be required for the following
International Festival, so if you think you could contribute constructively to the
organising and running of such festivals why not contact any of the AV Group
committee to find out more. This could be an ideal opportunity to become
actively involved in the future of our unique pastime.
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