20 DEC, 2005 - 1640 CST Gary, thanks for the reminder to read Allan Handforth's proposal in detail. I glanced at it when it first showed up in my inbox and then set it aside for later reading. I agree with Mr. Handforth's idea of creating a set of standards for ARES work. I'm not certain they have to be as detailed as he suggests, and there is bound to be some regional variances in how this work is done, just as there are variances within the various government services charged with providing emergency services. The Section Managers probably need to discuss and coordinate these issues among themselves with the technical assistance/ support of the ARRL F&ES Department. However, I see no need to establish a national board of Section Managers to develop and administer these policy requirements. It looks like he wants to set up a separate national policy-making body for a major portion of the ARRL structure that would be independent from the ARRL board. I will listen to arguments supporting his proposal, but I am not now convinced it is needed or desirable. I think this would only further the built-in leadership split fostered by our current method of obtaining SMs. In my five years on the board of directors, I have heard conversations to the effect that the Section Managers should be appointed by the Division Directors in order to clarify lines of authority and accountability. In view of Mr. Handforth's proposal, perhaps we should consider this idea? 73 - Dick, W9GIG