It was an interesting semester, but that's putting it mildly. The senate and executive branches - as opposed to a judicial branch, which ASUAF does not have, mind you - saw success and failure. These ups and downs were also experienced by the various directors and non-elected worker bees of the student government hive.
Since it's the season for giving, let's start out with the successes:
The biggest change the senate made this semester was in overhauling club council - the abhorred funding mechanism of UAF's 80+ active clubs. A better word then "overhauling" would be "eliminating." The senate - which ASUAF president Mari Freitag was keen to point out - created the council and could thus disband it at will.
Taking the place of the old congressional-style organization is an "ad hoc" committee. I place "ad hoc" in quotes because there is nothing "ad hoc" about a permanent committee. While I have stated on this blog before how much I supported doing-away with the council (adding that it would give the senate an automatic B in my grade book), what has been created in it's stead is worrisome, if only for it's lack of specificity. At the risk of repeating what I wrote in an article for The Sun Star, the committee does not provide for how it's members are selected or what the criteria for selection should be. If this is fixed in a timely fashion (i.e. over break or early in the spring semester) potential issues can be avoided. If it isn't, Jay Leonard (who I spoke to for the aforementioned article) will be right in interpreting this new committee as simply a power play by the senate; concentrating authority into the hands of a few senators and club representatives while stripping the majority of club-going students of rights. A key tool in the power-play rule book is smoke: be vague and you can interpret A to be B.
Rights, it is worth noting, are no where noted (har har) or enshrined anywhere in the ASUAF constitution or bylaws.
A very minor success - mostly for the senate and mildly for the students as a whole - was getting the word out that ASUAF existed. (Although, the response to questions on this semester's election ballot, would lead one to think that they have a lot of work ahead of them.) The senate was prompt in hiring Rosemary Paz as it's public relations director and Freitag was eerily wise in picking Josh Banks for government relations director. Banks, it should be noted, is a former ASUAF senator and can be found scattered throughout the ASUAF minutes of several years ago.
Eerily wise or simply astute, either way, Freitag picked the person most suited for the job. While tall, Banks is very unassuming and oddly un-charismatic. I reference his height because John Adams, our nations second POTUS, joked about fellow Virginian George Washington's knack for finding employment in the revolutionary cause, that being because he was always the tallest man in a room.
However, presidents aside, Banks has proved his suitableness for the job by organizing a pre-election debate and a post-election legislative meet-and-greet. While the debate was apparently lackluster the meet-and-greet was a roaring success; every Fairbanks legislator attended, the room was packed, and the event even received a write-up from the city daily. I will add that I felt a certain pity for the student government (and director Banks himself) - the only mention of who put on the legislative chat was to be found in two photo captions, but not in the article itself.
In essence, ASUAF was successful this year thanks to Josh Banks and SB 177-018, which disbanded club council. Will those dual successes hold weight against the failures?
Check back soon to find out.
Friday, December 16, 2011
Friday, December 2, 2011
Unsubscribe? ERROR 404
Apparently, it is impossible to unsubscribe from President Gamble's listserve. I've spoken to Kate Ripley and Izzy Martinez at Public Affairs about this. Kate sent me a long email detailing they whys of the situation. It sounds like, because he's the president, he needs an open route to all UA staff and faculty email addresses. I'm considering writing something up for the paper, but if I don't, I might just put something up on here.
Wednesday, November 23, 2011
Working on something bigger
I've been working on a larger post concerning all of the interesting challenges that the Sun Star has been navigating through. I don't think it's fair to have a blog that focuses on UAF student politics that doesn't address it since it's been OH such a big deal (no sarcasm implied). I will, maybe, come out with it after the election next week (Nov. 29-30). Maybe.
Thursday, November 17, 2011
Special Political Issue
The Sun Star, the college weekly I maintain this blog for, will be publishing an issue dedicated to the ASUAF elections this Nov. 29 and 30. It will have - or so we intend - bio's and photos of everyone running in the election, as well as a break down of any ballot initiatives or questions.
Look for this issue to be out Nov. 29!
Look for this issue to be out Nov. 29!
Internal Affairs committee gets new meeting time
Minor news flash, but for any readers interested in going to the meetings of the Internal Affairs committee, they have a new meeting time.
Friday. 2:30 p.m.
Be there. Or, you know, don't.
Friday. 2:30 p.m.
Be there. Or, you know, don't.
Wednesday, November 16, 2011
Change of plans for the MPC
It turns out I will NOT be on the Master Planning Committee this Fall.
I spoke to Lydia Anderson (an MPC member) over email and she said that while herself - and the board - appreciated my willingness to serve, they were looking for someone who could do the job for the full term. All I will say is it's already November.
Mari Freitag, ASUAF president, has sent out a second email looking for a student to fill the vacancy. Which means, if you or someone you know, is a UAF student who'd be interested in serving on the committee, email Mari at president@asuaf.org.
Will Mari or Lydia find someone soon? In all honesty, I don't think either of them will. Especially not before the end of the fall semester. The last student representative was Nikki Carvajal and she was president herself at the time.
But, I hope they do find someone. It's a student position on an official UAF committee that oversees (primarily) the practical application of aesthetic ideals on campus. So, they make UAF look pretty. At the very least, my fellow students, it'll look good on a resume and you'll get management experience to boot.
In recap, the student position on the MPC is open but will most likely stay open. I invite all comers to prove me wrong.
I spoke to Lydia Anderson (an MPC member) over email and she said that while herself - and the board - appreciated my willingness to serve, they were looking for someone who could do the job for the full term. All I will say is it's already November.
Mari Freitag, ASUAF president, has sent out a second email looking for a student to fill the vacancy. Which means, if you or someone you know, is a UAF student who'd be interested in serving on the committee, email Mari at president@asuaf.org.
Will Mari or Lydia find someone soon? In all honesty, I don't think either of them will. Especially not before the end of the fall semester. The last student representative was Nikki Carvajal and she was president herself at the time.
But, I hope they do find someone. It's a student position on an official UAF committee that oversees (primarily) the practical application of aesthetic ideals on campus. So, they make UAF look pretty. At the very least, my fellow students, it'll look good on a resume and you'll get management experience to boot.
In recap, the student position on the MPC is open but will most likely stay open. I invite all comers to prove me wrong.
Friday, November 4, 2011
UAF's H20 permits a-okay
I did a little proactive snooping around the Dept. of Environmental Conservation's website and discovered that, yes, all of UAF's water permits are in order.
If you care to check them out, here are links to their documentation:
If you care to check them out, here are links to their documentation:
- UAF Life Sciences Research and Teaching Facility_2
- UAF Life Sciences Research and Teaching Facility_4
- Arctic Health West Parking Lot Improvements
For you intrepid data-miners out there, here is the link to the DEC's public database. If I could, I would like this on Facebook SO HARD.
What is the difference between those two Life Science permits? Well, "2" expired June 2011 and was addressed to Cameron Wohlford while "4" is valid until January 2016 and is addressed to Scott Bell. Other then that, your guess, dear reader, is as good as mine.
The Master Planning Committee is a committee of master plans
Well, it looks as if yours truly has been appointed as the student representative to the Master Planning Committee (MPC), pending both the senate and chancellor give to "okay."
For those unfamiliar with UAF's bureaucracy, the MPC acts as an an advisory committee to the universities chancellor, Mr. Brian Rogers. "Its charge is to assist in the implementation and continual update of the current UAF Campus Master Plan," according to the MPC's webpage.
However, I am sure many of you read the above quote and went, "Say, what, now?"
The Campus Master Plan, to put it in plain English, is the master plan for UAF. What this means in plainer, if less tautological English, is that the master plan is UAF's very long "honey do" list.
Just a few of these "to-do's" include:
For those unfamiliar with UAF's bureaucracy, the MPC acts as an an advisory committee to the universities chancellor, Mr. Brian Rogers. "Its charge is to assist in the implementation and continual update of the current UAF Campus Master Plan," according to the MPC's webpage.
However, I am sure many of you read the above quote and went, "Say, what, now?"
The Campus Master Plan, to put it in plain English, is the master plan for UAF. What this means in plainer, if less tautological English, is that the master plan is UAF's very long "honey do" list.
Just a few of these "to-do's" include:
- integrating "teaching and research through building location and use"
- ensuring the "campus environment enhances both the academic and student life experience"
- improve access to and circulation within the campus (I'm assuming, of course, this refers to blood - LOLJK)
- preserving and highlighting the "unique natural and cultural aspects of UAF's northern location"
- enhancing "space quality and maximize effective utilization"
- employing the "best practices in sustainability for northern environment"
Yes, I am sure some of you (again) went "Say, what, now?"
That section above only includes UAF's "short-term" goals, items they hope to accomplish in the near-future. Sadly, none of these goals had a timeline attached to them, which means "short-term" is, or so I am assuming, between 5-50 years. I say that because if UAF was the Corleone family and the master plan was a hit-list, it would take years (and many more movies) to make sure all of UAF's Guido's and Gino's were sleeping with the fishes. There is probably no timeline because the shear number of "things we need to fix" is so daunting. I know as a voting member of the MPC, I'd like to find out how UAF is doing on their hit list to-do list. This is not to cause trouble, but to simply figure out how UAF is doing it's self-created itemized list of action items. [That last sentence should have filled my buzzword quota for November.]
I promise that if all goes swimmingly and I am indeed appointed, I'll be sure to give my readers updates into the mind and workings of the MPC. I know I'm pretty jazzed to get started.
I promise that if all goes swimmingly and I am indeed appointed, I'll be sure to give my readers updates into the mind and workings of the MPC. I know I'm pretty jazzed to get started.
Friday, October 28, 2011
Update: Of Grades and Senators
A lot has been going on with the senate this semester and I will most likely be giving it an overview and grade come December. Right now? I'm giving it a solid C+. Which, I shouldn't need to remind anyone, is average; it's good. It's the "doing your job" level. Right now, the senate has a lot of projects in the works that, if they can come to fruition by December, will boost them up to a B or maybe a B+. No promises.
What will get them a B, automatically, is the passing of SB 177-017: Club Council Ad-Hoc Committee.” That bill would abolish the club council and create a committee instead. Clubs would still submit funding applications - and receive funding - but without the boring and unnecessary club council meetings. This bill will provide a massive and much-needed overall to the club funding process.
President Mari Freitag, over the past two weeks, has appointed a string of new senators (Blake Burley, Fred Brown, and Rusty Young) the senate is investigating water quality issues on campus, and it looks like the senator training video will be made. Next year.
Are there any issues my readers my readers would like to see blogged about?
What will get them a B, automatically, is the passing of SB 177-017: Club Council Ad-Hoc Committee.” That bill would abolish the club council and create a committee instead. Clubs would still submit funding applications - and receive funding - but without the boring and unnecessary club council meetings. This bill will provide a massive and much-needed overall to the club funding process.
President Mari Freitag, over the past two weeks, has appointed a string of new senators (Blake Burley, Fred Brown, and Rusty Young) the senate is investigating water quality issues on campus, and it looks like the senator training video will be made. Next year.
Are there any issues my readers my readers would like to see blogged about?
Meeting Recap #7: Oct. 16, 2011
Senators in attendance
Arthur Martin, Jennifer Chambers, Jesse Cervin, Will Collingwood, Christian Burns-Shafer, Sophia Grzeskowiak-Amezquita, Timothy Grediagin, Robert Kinnard III and John Netardus
Arthur Martin, Jennifer Chambers, Jesse Cervin, Will Collingwood, Christian Burns-Shafer, Sophia Grzeskowiak-Amezquita, Timothy Grediagin, Robert Kinnard III and John Netardus
Senators absent
Chelsea Holt, Michael Golub and Andy Chamberlain
Chelsea Holt, Michael Golub and Andy Chamberlain
Officers in attendance
Mari Freitag (ASUAF president)
Mari Freitag (ASUAF president)
Film bill confusion
The senate discussed an email sent over the ASUAF list-serve by Kalesha Pearson. Pearson, a member of the UAF Film Club, wrote that prior to reading about “SB 177-002: Let’s Make a Movie” in The Sun Star, she had not heard that her organization was making a film. “There was miscommunication on both sides,” said Arthur Martin, who wrote the bill. Martin stated he had emailed Maya Salganek, the club’s adviser, in the summer. At the time, Salganek said she approved of the idea and would discuss it with the Film Club during the fall semester, Martin said. Despite the lack of communication, both the senate and Film Club intend to see the film produced. This bill gives the UAF Film Club $500 to produce a short training video for new ASUAF senators.
The senate discussed an email sent over the ASUAF list-serve by Kalesha Pearson. Pearson, a member of the UAF Film Club, wrote that prior to reading about “SB 177-002: Let’s Make a Movie” in The Sun Star, she had not heard that her organization was making a film. “There was miscommunication on both sides,” said Arthur Martin, who wrote the bill. Martin stated he had emailed Maya Salganek, the club’s adviser, in the summer. At the time, Salganek said she approved of the idea and would discuss it with the Film Club during the fall semester, Martin said. Despite the lack of communication, both the senate and Film Club intend to see the film produced. This bill gives the UAF Film Club $500 to produce a short training video for new ASUAF senators.
Water quality bill
“SB 177-012: Water Quality Testing” would allow the senate to use $800 to purchase two Private Individual Water Analysis (PIWA) tests. The tests would be performed by SGS North America Inc. The issue of water quality was addressed during the Oct. 9 senate meeting after Dillon Ball (ASUAF vice president) said students approached him with concerns about the campus’s water quality. The student affairs committee will be charged with collecting two tap water samples from the campus’s water supply. Will Collingwood wrote the bill, which was moved to the Student Affairs committee.
“SB 177-012: Water Quality Testing” would allow the senate to use $800 to purchase two Private Individual Water Analysis (PIWA) tests. The tests would be performed by SGS North America Inc. The issue of water quality was addressed during the Oct. 9 senate meeting after Dillon Ball (ASUAF vice president) said students approached him with concerns about the campus’s water quality. The student affairs committee will be charged with collecting two tap water samples from the campus’s water supply. Will Collingwood wrote the bill, which was moved to the Student Affairs committee.
Conflict of interest bill
The senate approved “SB 177-007: Conflict of Interest.” The bill will prevent senators from voting on legislation that directly addresses them by name or benefits them financially. Jesse Cervin and ASUAF vice president Mari Freitag spoke against and for the bill, respectively.
The senate approved “SB 177-007: Conflict of Interest.” The bill will prevent senators from voting on legislation that directly addresses them by name or benefits them financially. Jesse Cervin and ASUAF vice president Mari Freitag spoke against and for the bill, respectively.
The bill was both unnecessary and limiting, adding that if people find a bill unethical that they will not support it, Cervin said.
The bill is not “about stopping legislation that might benefit somebody. This is about stopping people from voting unethically on things,” Freitag responded.
Robert Kinnard III agreed with Freitag, saying that while senators are supposed to vote in good faith, they do not always do as such. After discussing the bill for approximately 15 minutes, the bill passed by a vote of 6-2-0. Will Collingwood and Jesse Cervin cast the two dissenting votes.
Free candy, redux
“SB: 177-013: Trick or Treat? But Mostly Sweet!” will budget $300 for candy to give to students during Halloween. The goal is to encourage students to come to the ASUAF senate chambers. By a vote of 5-2-1, the bill passed. John Netardus and Sophia Grzeskowiak-Amezquita abstained, while Christian Burns-Shafer voted no.
“SB: 177-013: Trick or Treat? But Mostly Sweet!” will budget $300 for candy to give to students during Halloween. The goal is to encourage students to come to the ASUAF senate chambers. By a vote of 5-2-1, the bill passed. John Netardus and Sophia Grzeskowiak-Amezquita abstained, while Christian Burns-Shafer voted no.
Meeting Recap #6: Oct. 9, 2011
Senators in attendance
Robert Kinnard III, Arthur Martin, Jennifer Chambers, Sophia Grzeskowiak-Amezquita, Jesse Cervin, Will Collingwood, Timothy Grediagin, Christian Burns-Shafer, John Netardus, Andy Chamberlain, Chelsea Holt and Michael Golub
Robert Kinnard III, Arthur Martin, Jennifer Chambers, Sophia Grzeskowiak-Amezquita, Jesse Cervin, Will Collingwood, Timothy Grediagin, Christian Burns-Shafer, John Netardus, Andy Chamberlain, Chelsea Holt and Michael Golub
Officers in attendance
Mari Freitag, ASUAF president
Dillon Ball, ASUAF vice president
Mari Freitag, ASUAF president
Dillon Ball, ASUAF vice president
Water quality issues
The student government is considering an investigation into potential water quality issues on campus. Students have come to Vice President Dillon Ball with concerns about UAF’s water, he said. Both Will Collingwood and Sophia Grzeskowiak-Amezquita said that paying for a water quality test would be a good idea. “That would definitely help the students,” Grzeskowiak-Amezquita said.
The student government is considering an investigation into potential water quality issues on campus. Students have come to Vice President Dillon Ball with concerns about UAF’s water, he said. Both Will Collingwood and Sophia Grzeskowiak-Amezquita said that paying for a water quality test would be a good idea. “That would definitely help the students,” Grzeskowiak-Amezquita said.
Boiko named to Concert Board
The senate appointed Corey Boiko to the ASUAF Concert Board. The board oversees many of UAF’s musical events, including the music concert at Springfest.
The senate appointed Corey Boiko to the ASUAF Concert Board. The board oversees many of UAF’s musical events, including the music concert at Springfest.
Sun Star ads buy
The senate budgeted $8,604 to buy ads from The Sun Star. President Mari Freitag signed the contract May 23, but needed final approval from the senate. The vote was 10-0-1 with John Netardus abstaining.
The senate budgeted $8,604 to buy ads from The Sun Star. President Mari Freitag signed the contract May 23, but needed final approval from the senate. The vote was 10-0-1 with John Netardus abstaining.
Phillips recognized
“SR: 177-001: In Recognition of Sabra Phillips” is a senate resolution that would honor former ASUAF Executive Officer Sabra Phillips. This bill was sent to executive committee for further additions.
“SR: 177-001: In Recognition of Sabra Phillips” is a senate resolution that would honor former ASUAF Executive Officer Sabra Phillips. This bill was sent to executive committee for further additions.
Conflict of interest
“SB 177-007: Conflict of Interest” would not allow senators to vote on legislation that directly addresses them by name or that would benefit them financially. The bill has been sent to the executive committee for additional revision.
“SB 177-007: Conflict of Interest” would not allow senators to vote on legislation that directly addresses them by name or that would benefit them financially. The bill has been sent to the executive committee for additional revision.
Budget redistribution
“SB: 177-011: Budget Redistribution” is a bill that would allocate $12,500 from senate projects to various committees and interests within the student government. The bill was sent to the executive committee.
“SB: 177-011: Budget Redistribution” is a bill that would allocate $12,500 from senate projects to various committees and interests within the student government. The bill was sent to the executive committee.
Dance Party!
“SB: 177-012: Dance Party” will allocate $400 from senate projects toward hosting a dance party in the Wood Center Ballroom on Oct. 15. The money will be used to pay DJ 50/50, who will provide music at the party. “[DJ 50/50]’s giving us a deal,” Chelsea Holt said. The bill was approved by a vote of 11-0-0.
“SB: 177-012: Dance Party” will allocate $400 from senate projects toward hosting a dance party in the Wood Center Ballroom on Oct. 15. The money will be used to pay DJ 50/50, who will provide music at the party. “[DJ 50/50]’s giving us a deal,” Chelsea Holt said. The bill was approved by a vote of 11-0-0.
Free candy
“SB: 177-013: Trick or Treat? But Mostly Sweet!” would budget $200 for candy to give to students during Halloween. The goal is to encourage students to come to the ASUAF senate chambers. The bill was sent to the student affairs committee.
“SB: 177-013: Trick or Treat? But Mostly Sweet!” would budget $200 for candy to give to students during Halloween. The goal is to encourage students to come to the ASUAF senate chambers. The bill was sent to the student affairs committee.
Meeting Recap #5: Oct. 2, 2011
Senators in attendance
Robert Kinnard III, Chelsea Holt, John Netardus, Sophia Grzeskowiak-Amezquita, Jennifer Chambers, Andy Chamberlain, Will Collingwood, Michael Golub, Christian Burns-Shafer
Senators absent
Jesse Cervin, Arthur Martin, Timothy Grediagin
Officers in attendance
Dillon Ball (vice president), Josh Banks (government relations director)
Acevedo resigns
Aaron Acevedo resigned his seat in the senate. No one at the meeting gave any reason for his resignation.
New senator
The senate confirmed Christian Burns-Shafer as its newest senator. Burns-Shafer is a mathematics freshmen and has been interested in the student government since last year, he said.
Senate clerk hired
Arthur Martin was hired as the ASUAF senate clerk. The senate clerk is responsible for keeping the minutes at senate meetings. It is a 10-hour-per-week position and pays $3,300 annually.
TAB members named
The senate appointed Kayla Kubicke and ASUAF senators Andy Chamberlain and Jennifer Chambers to the Technology Advisory Board. The board oversees how the UAF technology fee is spent. The fee charges students $5 per credit hour and funds projects that “enhance student access to technology,” according to the TAB website. In spring 2012, the fee will fund new rentable laptops for the Rasmuson Library and new lenses for the journalism department.
RISE board members named
Brett Parks, Michaela Swanson and Wyatt Hurlbut were reconfirmed to the Review of Infrastructure, Sustainability and Energy (RISE) board. The RISE board oversees the spending of funds generated by the Student Initiative for Renewable Energy Now (SIREN) fee. All three members have been on the board since at least the spring semester.
Club council legislation passes
By a vote of 8-0-0, “SB 177-009: First Meeting of Club Council” was passed by the senate. The bill will amend section 720.2.2 of the ASUAF bylaws to push back the deadline of the first meeting of club council in both the fall and spring semesters.
Combined committees bill fails
By a vote of 5-4-0, “SB 177-010: Combination of Committees” was not passed by the senate. The vote was done by roll call, which means it needed a two-thirds majority to pass. The bill would have temporarily combined the university relations and executive committees into one body. Michael Golub sponsored the bill. Golub believed that the size of the senate was insufficient to meet the needs of five committees, he said. The senate currently has 11 out of a possible 20 committee-eligible members. Each committee needs at least four members to be considered functional, which means most senators are on at least two committees. Chelsea Holt, Sophia Grzeskowiak-Amezquita, Christian Burns-Shafer, Robert Kinnard III and Michael Golub voted in favor of the bill, while Will Collingwood, John Netardus, Andy Chamberlain and Jesse Cervin (by proxy vote) voted against it.
Friday, October 21, 2011
Updates: Senators and Money
I've updated the Meet Your Senators and Money Watch pages to reflect updated information. Over the past few weeks, the senate has gained (and lost) senators while also allotting over $2,000 through various bills. If you want to know who represents you on the student senate and how much of your student fee has been spent, please check out the links above.
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
Senators choose to vote in good faith
If you read my earlier "praise" article, you'll know that I was very impressed by the executive committees decision to support "SB 177-007: Conflict of Interest." For those not in the know, let me bring you up to speed: the bill was written in order to prevent senators from voting on legislation that directly addressed them by name or that would benefit them financially. Sounds like a good idea, no?
Well, it passed by a vote of 6-2-0.
ASUAF vice president Mari Freitag, who has attended almost all of this semester senate meetings, spoke in support of the bill. At one point, she was asked by the senate just why this bill was so important? Why had it come abouThe issue for Freitag was that a senator - whom she preferred not to name - had voted in favor of a bill that allowed him to fly to last year's legislative conference in Juneau. Earning himself a "free trip" using student funds, according to Freitag.
While voting for himself did not break any bylaws, it was still unethical and ignored the spirit of his office; that was the gist of Freitag's argument.
Standing in opposition to Freitag was Jesse Cervin. Cervin argued that SB 177-007 was both unnecessary and limiting. He added that if people found a potential bill unethical that they would not support it. According to Freitag, the bill was not “about stopping legislation that might benefit somebody." Instead, it was "about stopping people from voting unethically on things."
Robert Kinnard III agreed with Freitag, saying that while senators are supposed to vote in good faith, they do not always do as such.
This is what the bill really came down to: voting in good faith. Can individuals be trusted to abstain from bills which would benefit them financially? Clearly not, but thankfully the majority of the senate knew that.
Thursday, October 6, 2011
Smashing conflict in the senate
I want to give my hearty congratulations to the executive committee for recommending the following be inserted into SB 177-007: Conflict of Interest, which was already an excellent bill.
021.3.1 When the legislation explicitly addresses a senator then that
senator must abstain from the vote.
021.3.2 This does not mean that senators may not vote for allocating funds
to an organization that they may belong to, only that they may not vote for
the allocating of funds that would directly benefit them.
021.3.3 When the legislation does not clearly state if any senator is
directly benefited then the senate votes with a 3/4 majority on if the
senator has to abstain.
021.3.1 When the legislation explicitly addresses a senator then that
senator must abstain from the vote.
021.3.2 This does not mean that senators may not vote for allocating funds
to an organization that they may belong to, only that they may not vote for
the allocating of funds that would directly benefit them.
021.3.3 When the legislation does not clearly state if any senator is
directly benefited then the senate votes with a 3/4 majority on if the
senator has to abstain.
What does this mean for UAF students?
This means your senators will no longer be allowed to vote on bills that would directly benefit them. The original bill would have only prohibited senators from voting on bills that would be financially beneficial to their persons. This bill goes a step farther and says "Look, if you are named specifically in this bill, you cannot vote on it."
What I also like about these additions is that they answers the hypothetical question of "what if it does impact someone, but they just aren't mentioned?" The senate votes with a 3/4 majority on if they senator should abstain. BOOM.
What I want to know now, is if a senator is allowed to vote in the "does this effect me?" vote. If I read the bill correctly, then no, they would not be able to.
I know that some people tend to lament the senates - seemingly often - focus on itself. While I am guilty of being one of those partaking in said lamentations, a bill like this is good. I have zero issue with the senate spending time on it's own house (so to speak) when the bill is as necessary and beneficial as this one is.
This means your senators will no longer be allowed to vote on bills that would directly benefit them. The original bill would have only prohibited senators from voting on bills that would be financially beneficial to their persons. This bill goes a step farther and says "Look, if you are named specifically in this bill, you cannot vote on it."
What I also like about these additions is that they answers the hypothetical question of "what if it does impact someone, but they just aren't mentioned?" The senate votes with a 3/4 majority on if they senator should abstain. BOOM.
What I want to know now, is if a senator is allowed to vote in the "does this effect me?" vote. If I read the bill correctly, then no, they would not be able to.
I know that some people tend to lament the senates - seemingly often - focus on itself. While I am guilty of being one of those partaking in said lamentations, a bill like this is good. I have zero issue with the senate spending time on it's own house (so to speak) when the bill is as necessary and beneficial as this one is.
Good work, team.
Wednesday, October 5, 2011
ASUAF holds Prop 2 debate
Government Relations Director Josh Banks, working with the Public Relations committee, held a debate on Proposition 2 this Monday (Oct. 3). Look for both senatorial and Sun Star commentary on it this week.
Saturday, October 1, 2011
Committees select meeting times
All five ASUAF committees have scheduled permanent meeting times for the rest of the semester. Meeting are held in the Senate Chambers, located in the Wood Center.
University Relations committee meets Tuesday at 5:10 pm
Public Relations committee meets Tuesday at 6:45 pm
Executive committee meets Tuesday at 7:00 pm
Student Affairs committee meets Thursday at 5:30 pm
Internal Affairs committee meets Friday at 5:07* pm
*IA committee chair Arthur Martin stated (in both an email and at a senate meeting) that he chose 5:07 for two reasons: (1) he gets out of work at 5:00 and (2) the odd time is easy to remember because of how odd it is. I couldn't agree more. Such odd times even has a name associated with it. It's called the "Swiss Trains Approach." Seriously. There is even an article about it.
University Relations committee meets Tuesday at 5:10 pm
Public Relations committee meets Tuesday at 6:45 pm
Executive committee meets Tuesday at 7:00 pm
Student Affairs committee meets Thursday at 5:30 pm
Internal Affairs committee meets Friday at 5:07* pm
*IA committee chair Arthur Martin stated (in both an email and at a senate meeting) that he chose 5:07 for two reasons: (1) he gets out of work at 5:00 and (2) the odd time is easy to remember because of how odd it is. I couldn't agree more. Such odd times even has a name associated with it. It's called the "Swiss Trains Approach." Seriously. There is even an article about it.
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
Meeting Recap #4: Sept. 27, 2011
Everything below is also available here.
The following notes were compiled during the Sept. 25, 2011 Associated Students of the University of Alaska Fairbanks (ASUAF) senate meeting. All senate meetings, unless otherwise noted, are held at 4p.m. on Sunday in the Alumni Lounge.
Senators in attendance
Arthur Martin
Jennifer Chambers
Robert Kinnard III
John Netardus
Chelsea Holt
Timothy Grediagin
Andy Chamberlain
Michael Golub
Jesse Cervin
Will Collingwood
Arthur Martin
Jennifer Chambers
Robert Kinnard III
John Netardus
Chelsea Holt
Timothy Grediagin
Andy Chamberlain
Michael Golub
Jesse Cervin
Will Collingwood
Senators absent
Sophia Grzeskowiak-Amezquita
Aaron Acevedo
Hollie Seiler
Sophia Grzeskowiak-Amezquita
Aaron Acevedo
Hollie Seiler
Officers present
Mari Freitag (president)
Mari Freitag (president)
Let’s fund a movie
“SB 177-002: Let’s Make a Movie.” This bill will give the UAF Film Club $500 to produce a short training video for new ASUAF senators. The internal affairs committee will be in charge of producing the movie. The senate voted 7-2-0 in support of the bill. Michael Golub and Timothy Grediagin voted against the bill.
“SB 177-002: Let’s Make a Movie.” This bill will give the UAF Film Club $500 to produce a short training video for new ASUAF senators. The internal affairs committee will be in charge of producing the movie. The senate voted 7-2-0 in support of the bill. Michael Golub and Timothy Grediagin voted against the bill.
Leadership money for students
“SB 177-005: To Sponsor Students for the Leadership Conference.” This bill will set aside $150 to sponsor 10 students to attend the UAF Leadership Conference on Oct. 8 in the Wood Center Ballroom. The money will go to the first 10 students who ask for it. Senator are excluded from the scholarship. The senate voted 7-0-2 in support of the bill. Robert Kinnard III and Chelsea Holt abstained.
“SB 177-005: To Sponsor Students for the Leadership Conference.” This bill will set aside $150 to sponsor 10 students to attend the UAF Leadership Conference on Oct. 8 in the Wood Center Ballroom. The money will go to the first 10 students who ask for it. Senator are excluded from the scholarship. The senate voted 7-0-2 in support of the bill. Robert Kinnard III and Chelsea Holt abstained.
Stickers!
“SB 177-006: Stickers.” This bill will set aside $500 to allow the senate to purchase stickers with “ASUAF” printed on them. They will be used for promotional purposes. The senate voted 8-1-0 in support of the bill. Timothy Grediagin cast the dissenting vote.
“SB 177-006: Stickers.” This bill will set aside $500 to allow the senate to purchase stickers with “ASUAF” printed on them. They will be used for promotional purposes. The senate voted 8-1-0 in support of the bill. Timothy Grediagin cast the dissenting vote.
Senate to get totes
“SB 177-008: Tote Bags.” This bill will set aside $550 from the senate’s rollover account to purchase approximately 80 tote bags. The bags will be used as promotional items and given to students as a “thank you” for attending senate meetings. The senate had originally allotted money for the totes during the summer, but they were not purchased by then-executive officer Sabra Phillips. The senate voted 6-3-0 in favor of the bill. Michael Golub, Timothy Grediagin and Jesse Cervin cast the three dissenting votes.
“SB 177-008: Tote Bags.” This bill will set aside $550 from the senate’s rollover account to purchase approximately 80 tote bags. The bags will be used as promotional items and given to students as a “thank you” for attending senate meetings. The senate had originally allotted money for the totes during the summer, but they were not purchased by then-executive officer Sabra Phillips. The senate voted 6-3-0 in favor of the bill. Michael Golub, Timothy Grediagin and Jesse Cervin cast the three dissenting votes.
Acevedo to resign?
Aaron Acevedo has expressed his intent to resign from the senate, according to Jennifer Chambers.
Aaron Acevedo has expressed his intent to resign from the senate, according to Jennifer Chambers.
Committees may combine
Due to a lack of senators, some committees may combine for the time being. Robert Kinnard mentioned the idea, adding that the combination would only be for the semester. The concern is that several senators may become worn out, since many already serve on several committees.
Due to a lack of senators, some committees may combine for the time being. Robert Kinnard mentioned the idea, adding that the combination would only be for the semester. The concern is that several senators may become worn out, since many already serve on several committees.
Thursday, September 22, 2011
Meeting Recap #3: Sept. 18, 2011
The following notes were compiled during the Sept. 18, 2011 Associated Students of the University of Alaska Fairbanks (ASUAF) senate meeting. All senate meetings, unless otherwise noted, are held at 4p.m. on Sunday in the Alumni Lounge.
Senators in attendance
Robert Kinnard III
Jennifer Chambers
Chelsea Holt
Will Collingwood
John Netardus
Jesse Cervin
Arthur Martin
Michael Golub (via telephone)
Timothy Grediagin
Andy Chamberlain
Senators absent
Sophia Grzeskowiak-Amezquita
Hollie Seiler
Aaron Acevedo
Josh Cooper
Officers present
Mari Freitag (president)
Dillon Ball (vice president)
Josh Banks (government relations director)
Rosemary Paz (public relations director)
Cahill remarks
Cathy Cahill, president of the faculty senate, attended the senate meeting. She said that she wants the faculty senate to have a good relationship with ASUAF. Cahill added that the faculty senate will be revising the core curriculum this year. The core curriculum has not be revised since 1991.
Chamberlain and Berg confirmed
Andy Chamberlain was confirmed to the ASUAF senate by a vote of 8-0-0. Murial Berg was appointed to the Chancellor’s Diversity Action Committee by a motion to consent. A motion to consent is not a vote, but confirmation by lack of objection.
Budgetary extra
Senate Chair Jennifer Chambers said that the senate has extra money in their budget after hiring an office manager, Anne Williamson. Since Williamson’s salary is lower than that of former executive officer Sabra Phillips (whom Williamson replaced) the difference in pay will be moved to senate projects. The total amount that will be moved to senate projects is not yet available.
Club council concerns
Vice President Dillon Ball’s copy of the club council manual didn’t reflect the spring 2011 changes, he said. The first club council meeting had to be held within the first two full weeks of class, according to the new manual. By the time Ball scheduled a meeting, the deadline passed. “It was an honest mistake that we missed this deadline,” Chambers said. As vice president, Ball chairs the club council.
Club council meeting
The first meeting of club council will be held on Oct. 6 at 7:30 p.m. in Gruening 208. The council’s duty is to allot money to UAF clubs.
Blood drive successful
The blood drive was a success, according to public relations director Rosemary Paz. There were so many volunteers that the blood bank had to turn people away.
Assembly debate
Government relations director Josh Banks is working the with public relations committee to host a debate between borough assembly candidates at the Wood Center. Banks intends to speak to assembly candidates this week.
Leadership conference bill
SB 177-005 would sponsor 10 students to attend the UAF Student Leadership Conference in the Wood Center Ballroom on Oct. 8. The application fee is $15. The fiscal impact of the bill would be $150. It was sent to the executive committee for discussion.
ASUAF needs stickers bill
SB 177-006 would allot $500 for the purchase of stickers with the words “ASUAF” on them. It was sent to the public relations committee.
Conflict of interest bill
SB 177-007 would change the ASUAF bylaws so that no senator may vote on a motion that would financially benefit them directly. Senators would still be allowed to vote on motions that allocate money to organizations they are a part of, because they would not “directly” benefit. It was sent to the internal affairs committee.
Tote bags need purchasing
SB 177-008 would allocate $1,500 to allow the senate to buy 250 ASUAF-themed tote bags to give out at events. The money had originally been appropriated during the summer but the totes were not purchased. The bill was sent to the public relations committee.
Club council meetings bill
SB 177-009 would change the wording in the club council bylaws about when council meetings would be held. After discussion between the executive and senatorial branches of ASUAF, the senate decided to move the bill to the executive committee.
The following was taken directly from my minutes at the Sun Star's website.
Senators in attendance
Robert Kinnard III
Jennifer Chambers
Chelsea Holt
Will Collingwood
John Netardus
Jesse Cervin
Arthur Martin
Michael Golub (via telephone)
Timothy Grediagin
Andy Chamberlain
Senators absent
Sophia Grzeskowiak-Amezquita
Hollie Seiler
Aaron Acevedo
Josh Cooper
Officers present
Mari Freitag (president)
Dillon Ball (vice president)
Josh Banks (government relations director)
Rosemary Paz (public relations director)
Cahill remarks
Cathy Cahill, president of the faculty senate, attended the senate meeting. She said that she wants the faculty senate to have a good relationship with ASUAF. Cahill added that the faculty senate will be revising the core curriculum this year. The core curriculum has not be revised since 1991.
Chamberlain and Berg confirmed
Andy Chamberlain was confirmed to the ASUAF senate by a vote of 8-0-0. Murial Berg was appointed to the Chancellor’s Diversity Action Committee by a motion to consent. A motion to consent is not a vote, but confirmation by lack of objection.
Budgetary extra
Senate Chair Jennifer Chambers said that the senate has extra money in their budget after hiring an office manager, Anne Williamson. Since Williamson’s salary is lower than that of former executive officer Sabra Phillips (whom Williamson replaced) the difference in pay will be moved to senate projects. The total amount that will be moved to senate projects is not yet available.
Club council concerns
Vice President Dillon Ball’s copy of the club council manual didn’t reflect the spring 2011 changes, he said. The first club council meeting had to be held within the first two full weeks of class, according to the new manual. By the time Ball scheduled a meeting, the deadline passed. “It was an honest mistake that we missed this deadline,” Chambers said. As vice president, Ball chairs the club council.
Club council meeting
The first meeting of club council will be held on Oct. 6 at 7:30 p.m. in Gruening 208. The council’s duty is to allot money to UAF clubs.
Blood drive successful
The blood drive was a success, according to public relations director Rosemary Paz. There were so many volunteers that the blood bank had to turn people away.
Assembly debate
Government relations director Josh Banks is working the with public relations committee to host a debate between borough assembly candidates at the Wood Center. Banks intends to speak to assembly candidates this week.
Leadership conference bill
SB 177-005 would sponsor 10 students to attend the UAF Student Leadership Conference in the Wood Center Ballroom on Oct. 8. The application fee is $15. The fiscal impact of the bill would be $150. It was sent to the executive committee for discussion.
ASUAF needs stickers bill
SB 177-006 would allot $500 for the purchase of stickers with the words “ASUAF” on them. It was sent to the public relations committee.
Conflict of interest bill
SB 177-007 would change the ASUAF bylaws so that no senator may vote on a motion that would financially benefit them directly. Senators would still be allowed to vote on motions that allocate money to organizations they are a part of, because they would not “directly” benefit. It was sent to the internal affairs committee.
Tote bags need purchasing
SB 177-008 would allocate $1,500 to allow the senate to buy 250 ASUAF-themed tote bags to give out at events. The money had originally been appropriated during the summer but the totes were not purchased. The bill was sent to the public relations committee.
Club council meetings bill
SB 177-009 would change the wording in the club council bylaws about when council meetings would be held. After discussion between the executive and senatorial branches of ASUAF, the senate decided to move the bill to the executive committee.
The following was taken directly from my minutes at the Sun Star's website.
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
Committee meets thanks to determination and technology
The executive committee of ASUAF deserves some special recognition.
While almost all of this semesters committee's have had trouble making quorum, the executive committee is one you would expect to make quorum consistently. It's made up of committee chairs after all, senators one expects to be a cut above the rest. They proved this by having a meeting, even though only one of their senators - Chelsea Holt - was at the official meeting place, the senate chambers.
How did they make quorum with only one senator at the meeting place? They did so thanks to the consciousness of senators, the power of technologically, and a wild game of telephone.
A wild game of telephone? Yes, and let me show you how.
Sophia Grzeskowiak-Amezquita, the committee chair, was in Tennessee during the weekend. She attended through Skype.
John Netardus was on the phone with Grzeskowiak-Amezquita.
Michael Golub called into the office and was place on speakerphone while Chelesa Holt (in the office) was on her mobile with Robert Kinnard III.
Arthur Martin, chair of the internal affairs committee, was absent.
Holt, then made sure the Skype conversation with Grzeskowiak-Amezquita was in full view of her mobile and the office's phone, before turning the volume up on both phones.
That meeting alone pretty much says to the other committees: "If you have enough members, you should be able to make quorum. Period."
While all the committees have had difficulty making quorum - and one is actually defunct at the moment due to lack of members - the executive committee decided to step up. In doing so, it has made itself a role model for the other committees and their members.
For a list of committees and the senators on them, please check out this post.
While almost all of this semesters committee's have had trouble making quorum, the executive committee is one you would expect to make quorum consistently. It's made up of committee chairs after all, senators one expects to be a cut above the rest. They proved this by having a meeting, even though only one of their senators - Chelsea Holt - was at the official meeting place, the senate chambers.
How did they make quorum with only one senator at the meeting place? They did so thanks to the consciousness of senators, the power of technologically, and a wild game of telephone.
A wild game of telephone? Yes, and let me show you how.
Sophia Grzeskowiak-Amezquita, the committee chair, was in Tennessee during the weekend. She attended through Skype.
John Netardus was on the phone with Grzeskowiak-Amezquita.
Michael Golub called into the office and was place on speakerphone while Chelesa Holt (in the office) was on her mobile with Robert Kinnard III.
Arthur Martin, chair of the internal affairs committee, was absent.
Holt, then made sure the Skype conversation with Grzeskowiak-Amezquita was in full view of her mobile and the office's phone, before turning the volume up on both phones.
That meeting alone pretty much says to the other committees: "If you have enough members, you should be able to make quorum. Period."
While all the committees have had difficulty making quorum - and one is actually defunct at the moment due to lack of members - the executive committee decided to step up. In doing so, it has made itself a role model for the other committees and their members.
For a list of committees and the senators on them, please check out this post.
Saturday, September 17, 2011
The Nookraker is expanding
In the next few weeks, you may see more of The Nookraker.
Not only do I have a new snazzy link on the UAF Sun Star's main page, I will also be connected with the ASUAF Facebook page. What does that mean? That means when I post here, it automatically posts there, too.
I'm also co-hosting "UAF Thursdays" on The Morning Blend with Josh Collins. While there is no law that says I have to talk politics, there is a solid chance I will at least once a show.
Also: If any readers ever have questions or comments, always feel free to ask them!
Committees meet for the first time
With the exception of the executive committee, which attempted to meet on Sept. 10, all ASUAF committees have either met or will be meeting over the course of the next week.
I hope to add a calendar widget so I can post when committee and senate meetings are, but have so far had no luck finding one that works. Until then, I will post meeting information either in a post or as a text box on the main page.
The current meeting information is below:
Sept. 16: Student Affairs (5:30PM)
Sept. 17: University Relations (11:30AM)
Sept. 17: Executive Comm. (6:15PM)
Sept. 17: ASUAF senate meeting (4:00PM)
Sept. 20: Public Relations (6:00PM)
Sept. 23: Internal Affairs (5:07PM)
All committee meetings will be held in the Senate Chambers, located in the Wood Center.
The senate meeting will be held in the Alumni Lounge.
I hope to add a calendar widget so I can post when committee and senate meetings are, but have so far had no luck finding one that works. Until then, I will post meeting information either in a post or as a text box on the main page.
The current meeting information is below:
Sept. 16: Student Affairs (5:30PM)
Sept. 17: University Relations (11:30AM)
Sept. 17: Executive Comm. (6:15PM)
Sept. 17: ASUAF senate meeting (4:00PM)
Sept. 20: Public Relations (6:00PM)
Sept. 23: Internal Affairs (5:07PM)
All committee meetings will be held in the Senate Chambers, located in the Wood Center.
The senate meeting will be held in the Alumni Lounge.
Monday, September 12, 2011
"What does a committee do?" - Part 1: The Executive Committee
What does a committee do? That depends on the committee. Below is the first in a five-part series detailing what a committee does. The following information is taken straight out of the ASUAF bylaws.
What does the executive committee do? It can:
To read a list of who is currently on this committee, please check out our committee member page.
What does the executive committee do? It can:
- propose constitutional amendments.
- propose ASUAF rules and Bylaws revisions.
- codify standing rules of procedure and decorum of the Senate.
- codify implicit changes to these Bylaws.
- delete footnotes that have been replaced by bylaws.
- define classes of legislation.To codify ASUAF policy and procedures.
- insure these bylaws are enacted and maintained.
- review the developing ASUAF budget and to present its recommendations to the Senate.
- formulate policy and procedure for the expenditures allowed under the ASUAF budget with the advice and consent of the Senate.
- receive petitions for loans, grants, or other ASUAF funds from recognized student organizations.
- have access to the fiscal records of all ASUAF departments and committees. To outline procedures for the performance of these duties in the Finance Procedure Manual.
- review the Finance Procedure Manual in the first month of the Fall and Spring semesters every year.
- receive the assistance of the ASUAF Student Leadership Coordinator in obtaining information that the committee needs to fulfill their duties.
To read a list of who is currently on this committee, please check out our committee member page.
Coming Up: "What does a committee do?"
"What does a committee do?" will be a five-part series asking just that. It will include information from the bylaws, who can be on a committee, and who is currently on the committee, because, let's face it, we all don't have time to check out the bylaws on a whim. The bylaws are long and complex, these posts will be short, sweet, and accurate.
Enjoy.
Enjoy.
Senate committees flush with members
Here is the list of senate committees and who is on them. Commentary to follow.
Executive:
Chair: Sophia Grzeskowiak-Amezquita
Members: Arthur Martin, Chelsea Holt, Robert Kinnard III, John Netardus, and Michael Golub
Internal Affairs
Chair: Arthur Martin
Members: Sophia Grzeskowiak-Amezquita, Jesse Cervin, and Will Collingwood
Student Affairs
Chair: Chelsea Holt
Members: Jesse Cervin, Timothy Grediagin, and Aaron Acevedo
University Relations
Chair: Robert Kinnard III
Members: Michael Golub, Hollie Seiler, Chelsea Holt, and Aaron Acevedo
Public Relations
Chair: John Netardus
Members: Timothy Grediagin, Will Collingwood, and Paul Pharr
Executive:
Chair: Sophia Grzeskowiak-Amezquita
Members: Arthur Martin, Chelsea Holt, Robert Kinnard III, John Netardus, and Michael Golub
Internal Affairs
Chair: Arthur Martin
Members: Sophia Grzeskowiak-Amezquita, Jesse Cervin, and Will Collingwood
Student Affairs
Chair: Chelsea Holt
Members: Jesse Cervin, Timothy Grediagin, and Aaron Acevedo
University Relations
Chair: Robert Kinnard III
Members: Michael Golub, Hollie Seiler, Chelsea Holt, and Aaron Acevedo
Public Relations
Chair: John Netardus
Members: Timothy Grediagin, Will Collingwood, and Paul Pharr
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