TeamSpeak focuses on meeting ‘truths’
On Aug. 30, several members gathered through the use of TeamSpeak, an internet-based phone conferencing program, to talk about conducting a Grange meeting.
The TeamSpeak meetings, which are held monthly on announced dates at 8 p.m. EST and again at 8 p.m. PST, work to inform members about issues of interest in our order and are led by leaders such as national officers and staff directors.
On this evening, members first discussed the philosophy of the Grange meeting.
Members agreed that there were three fundamental truths to conducting the Grange meeting.
They are:
- Every member has a voice.
- The majority rules.
- We remain family and friends before, during, and after the meeting.
The second part of the discussion was about the process of the Grange meeting.
First the structure of the Grange meeting was discussed. The importance and role of parliamentary procedure was debated. Our Grange meeting format was then explored by the group. The importance of a quorum was noted and the role of the opening and closing of the meeting was talked about.
Next, the role of the presiding officer was explained.
That person is a facilitator, not a participant in the meeting. If they see a need to participate in the deliberations of the meeting, they allow another member to conduct that portion of the meeting. The critical role of the presiding officer is as a team builder.
They are to draw members into active participation, ensure that the Grange is growing, and that members are working together for common goals.
The final segment of the discussion was focused on the goals that should be met by the end of each meeting.
Each member should have enjoyed or had fun at the meeting and should have experienced a pleasant and civil time.
Each member should have gained some new information or have received some education on a topic of concern or interest.
Most importantly, the Grange should have created some positive action for the benefit of the members and the community.
If you wish to listen to the podcast of this discussion, go to the Member’s section of vps70863.inmotionhosting.com/~nationalgrange and click on TeamSpeak Meetings.
Join in next month on Sept. 27 to hear a discussion on the topic of “Why ritualism is a part of the Grange”
