CVMA NM 47-1 BYLAWS. Version 8, Effective 1 January Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association New Mexico Chapter 47-1 Bylaws

CVMA NM 47-1 BYLAWS Version 8, Effective 1 January 2015 Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association New Mexico Chapter 47-1 Bylaws The Chapter 47-1 Bylaws,...
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CVMA NM 47-1 BYLAWS Version 8, Effective 1 January 2015 Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association New Mexico Chapter 47-1 Bylaws The Chapter 47-1 Bylaws, Protocols and any following amendments are not intended to supersede or replace the CVMA National, Regional or State Bylaws or Protocols but to serve as a tool to guide chapter operations and behaviors locally. These provisions apply to Chapter 47-1 and any Detachment(s) formed underneath or within the chapter in the state of New Mexico. Name and Emblem: Article 1 Section 1 The name of the association is: Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association, New Mexico Chapter 47-1. 1. IRC Section 501(c) (19) Purposes. Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association is organized exclusively for charitable, religious, educational and/or scientific purposes as specified in Section 501 (c) (19) of the Internal Revenue Code, including, for such purposes, the making of distributions to organizations that qualify as exempt organizations under Section 501(c) (19) of the Internal Revenue Code. The New Mexico 47-1 BOD has the authority to change the New Mexico Chapter 47-1 bylaws if any part is found to be in conflict with Federal or New Mexico state tax laws. 2. The emblem/logo used by the Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association is the sole property of the CVMA. The CVMA patch and logo cannot be reproduced without license from the BOD. The emblem of the Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association is in the shape of a skull encompassed by the following colors. The incorporated colors are red; representing the blood that has been shed on the battlefield. The Military Gold; representing all branches of the military service of the United States. Black; representing the heavy hearts possessed for those who gave their lives and for those that are considered missing in action or prisoners of war. The skull and ace of spade represents the death that war leaves in its wake. Objectives: Article 2 General: Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association New Mexico 47-1 Protocol. 1. CVMA is NOT a Motorcycle Club, but a Motorcycle Association. There is no intent to become a Motorcycle Club. We do not recruit nor do we prospect. We do have national membership fees. 2. The CVMA is formed for the betterment of communication and camaraderie between other motorcycle associations, veteran’s organizations and/or motorcycle groups.

3. To promote interest in various forms of motorcycle activity associated with veterans, to create and maintain camaraderie among Combat Veterans from all U.S. branches of service and its allies. 4. To support Veteran organizations throughout the state and surrounding region, to raise awareness for the plight of POW’s, MIAs and their families. 5. To conduct association functions and activities in a manner befitting the members of the CVMA as well as the association’s auxiliary members. 6. To encourage a better understanding of motorcycle riders as a constructive sport among members of the public, press and law enforcement agencies. 7. CVMA 47-1 as a chapter, may maintain membership in both the Southern New Mexico Confederation of Clubs (SNMCoC) and the Northern New Mexico Confederation of Clubs (NNMCoC), which are membership organizations of patch holding Motorcycle Clubs, Associations and Independents who have united to abolish discrimination against motorcyclists and to increase communication and understanding between clubs, the motorcycling community, Government and the greater community of the state of New Mexico. Annual dues of $100 (or other required amount approved by the CoC board) are authorized to be paid to each of the organizations to maintain membership and good standing. Membership: Article 3 Definitions: 1. The term “Good Standing” shall be defined as any person who has fulfilled the requirements for membership in the Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association, who is not currently under disciplinary review or probationary status for disciplinary reasons, who has paid the necessary dues and conformed to the requirements as set forth in these and the National bylaws. Each member should attend a minimum of ONE sanctioned event (meeting, ride, run, fund raiser, etc.) hosted by the CVMA per year as defined by the National bylaws. This can also be an event in any member’s state if prior approval is obtained by the state representative and may be waived by the state representative due to deployment, illness, financial hardship or other similar circumstance. Failure to maintain “Good Standing”, including the payment of dues (National or Chapter), will cause a member to forfeit all rights and privileges of Chapter or Detachment members in “Good Standing” to include Chapter or Detachment voting privileges and participation in Chapter or Detachment activities. Section 1 Any person: 1. of good character 2. who is a veteran of a foreign war, “COMBAT” 3. The ONLY acceptable proof for membership to the CVMA is a copy of one’s DD 214 or ERB/ ORB (or service specific equivalent) which must be surrendered to the New

Mexico State Rep for verification, who will submit to National Secretary with membership application and dues. 4. As a member of the CVMA annual dues of $20.00 will be paid to the National Treasurer. New Mexico 47-1 collects $10.00 annual state chapter dues from full members to be used to assist with various membership fees (COCs, MRO, etc.) or has approved by the Chapter membership. Dues for members deployed to a combat zone will be waived. Dues for each member are due in June of each year. Dues for new members will cover the remainder of the year and will be collected again the following year. Members joining after March 1st will be considered paid in full for the balance of the current year and the following year. 5. Must own and operate a street legal motorcycle of 500cc or above. Member must maintain proper licensing, registration and insurance on motorcycle. 6. Should a full member resign they will be given a 5 day grace period to rescind their resignation with no repercussions. After the grace period however; a member will have to re-apply for new membership and will require approval from the National Board of Directors. 7. Active members in good standing with the CVMA, who become infirm, disabled or otherwise unable to ride their motorcycle will be able to keep their patch and be retired as a member in good standing with the CVMA. Members must submit medical documentation and a minimum of one year as a member and/or approval by the Board of Directors. 8. Life Members; if for health reasons can no longer ride can at their discretion, remain a member in good standing with full voting privileges and can keep their patch. 9. Life membership requirements: 3 years active in the CVMA. Member must be in good standing for all three years and minimum participation of one sanctioned CVMA event per year is required. One of which must be a National meeting. If a life member quits for any reason or the member is removed from the CVMA rolls for any reason, no refunds will be made. 10. Full members in “Good Standing” will have a vote in Chapter business. Section 2 Auxiliary Members: 1. must be of good character 2. all auxiliary members must be a spouse, widow or widower of a full member who is in good standing with the CVMA. 3. Must support the efforts of ALL branches of the Armed Force of the United States of Americas and the CVMA. 4. Will have no vote in chapter business. 5. Cannot hold an elected officer position within New Mexico 47-1. 6. $10.00 annual dues will be assessed by the Auxiliary Unit and are payable by June of each year to the National Treasurer. New Mexico 47-1 does not collect membership dues from any Auxiliary member. 7. Auxiliary members in good standing can wear the 10 inch Auxiliary Member patch on the back of their vest or jacket. The patch will be provided by their sponsor.

Section 3 Support Members: 1. must be of good character. 2. must own and operate a street legal motorcycle of 500cc or above. 3. New Mexico support member allowance will not exceed 10% of its total CVMA full membership. 4. Support members must be a veteran of the United States Armed Forces. 5. Support members will read and abide by all CVMA by-laws applicable to them. 6. Support members are required to submit their application with proof of military service through a full member of the CVMA who has held a membership for not less than one year. Support members are required to have either ridden a minimum of 3,000 miles with their sponsor, attended three CVMA events or be known by their sponsor for a minimum of 6 months. A full member submitting an application for a support member should verify they meet the above criteria. Only 1 support member can be sponsored by an individual CVMA member. Support members will be at a 1:10 ratio statewide; 1 support member for every 10 full members based on statewide membership numbers. Support Member’s must be approved by a majority vote of Full Members and confirmed by the State Representative in order to fairly maintain the statewide 1:10 ratio in New Mexico. 7. Will have no vote in chapter business. 8. Cannot hold an elected officer position within the state. 9. $10.00 annual dues will be assessed by the National Board of Directors payable to the National Treasurer and due by June of each year. New Mexico 47-1 does not collect membership dues from any support member. 10. Support members in good standing may wear a small CVMA Support Patch on the front of their vest or jacket which will be supplied by their sponsor. Support members can also wear the 10 inch support back patch which will be supplied by their sponsor. Section 4 Dual Membership (Full, Auxiliary or Support Member) 1. Any prospective member who is also a member of another riding organization (MC, RC, Association, etc.), in order to prevent any possible disputes or conflict between such organizations, will a) will excuse his/her self or be excused by a chapter officer, from any actions that may be of conflict of interest. b) will not affix, attach or sew any CVMA logo or patch to their MC / RC cut or any MC / RC logo or patch to their CVMA vest, so as not to appear to have any “Support Club” type relationship.

Section 5 Protocol and Behavior: 1. All members MUST conduct themselves in a manner that is not an embarrassment to themselves, the CVMA, New Mexico 47-1 or the United States of America. All members will treat others (including members, families and our community) with dignity, respect and tolerance and behave in such a manner that brings credit upon the CVMA and the military that we represent. Our behavior defines us; we are a family oriented, community service organization. 2. All members will adhere to national and local protocols when dealing with other motorcycle organizations, in order to maintain good order and discipline and for the safety of the entire membership. There will be no rockers or state/region/area affiliation on the back of the vest/jacket or be worn in any way that may be construed as claiming territory. No Percentage patches of any kind (MC style/support or OTHERWISE); Rib/Side Rockers of any kind (MC style/support or OTHERWISE); Diamond/ Cubed shaped patches of any kind (MC Style/support or OTHERWISE) / Military unit patches that resemble diamond or cube MC style patches will NOT be worn (1st MAR DIV for example); It is recommended that the altered commercial versions (on a round background) of these unit patches be worn in their place. Do not wear any of these patches, subdued or color, in any area of the vest (Front/Back or Side) that can be “mistaken” for a MC Diamond/ Cube or support patch for any club. Special care should be taken to the colors of each patch placed on the vest as not to appear to support or offend an MC. If a member is requested to remove an item from their vest or bike, respectfully do so and report it to the chapter chain of command, who can settle any dispute through the leadership of the other organization or the Confederation of Clubs before it escalates. 3. Misconduct is defined as failure to abide by the bylaws of the CVMA, New Mexico 47-1 and any organization that the CVMA supports; intentionally violating Protocol 101 or any other misconduct bringing dishonor upon the CVMA in action, word(s), or deeds. Full Members may also be held accountable for the conduct of their sponsored Auxiliary spouses and sponsored Support Members. All members are responsible for the behavior and conduct of their family members and guests at CVMA functions. In the event of misconduct by any member, under the by-laws of the New Mexico 47-1, the Chapter Board of Directors possesses the right to recommend to the National BOD, through its state and regional representative, to revoke that member’s membership. The Chapter Board of Directors, Chain of Command or other appointed representatives may meet in Executive Session and issue penalties for misconduct including temporary suspension of membership privileges (not to exceed six months), probation (not to exceed 6 months), letters of concern, admonishment or other restrictions as deemed necessary for misconduct. Additionally, the board may ban guests and family members from CVMA events, if their behavior is not contusive to the good order of the association. 4. Full members will wear the 12.5 inch full member patch on the back of their vest/jacket. There will be no rockers or state/region/area affiliation on the back of the vest/jacket. Other patches may be worn on the vest/jacket at the member’s discretion as long as it is determined not to violate protocol and is of good taste. The following is the

recommended NOT mandatory wear of CVMA and chapter patches, if worn, in order to give a uniformed appearance: “Vets Helping Vets” tab be worn on the very lower portion of the back panel (not directly under the CVMA patch); The U.S. Flag will be worn on the wearer’s upper left panel most high, with the CVMA flash and chapter patch underneath. The member’s road name (level with or lower than the U.S. Flag) and then officer position patches underneath will be worn on the wearer’s upper right front panel. The NM state COC (either Northern or Southern) patch should be worn on the lower portion of either the right or left front panel. A new member will be patched after they have attended a meeting or have ridden in a chapter ride, paid all dues and purchased patch. 5. Members that are not in “good standing” may be requested to surrender their membership patch and may also be reported as such to the state COC if the wear violates protocols, in order to prevent any conflict with other motorcycle organizations. Elections: Article 4 Section 1 All nominees for any chapter or detachment office must be an active member in good standing in the association with a minimum of 1 full year CVMA membership; waivers may be recommended by the Chapter Commander and State Representative for submission to the National Board of Directors for approval. All nominees must have participated in at least one sanctioned event, ride or meeting before being nominated for any office. 1. All elected and or appointed officers must remain active in good standing for the duration of the term of office. 2. All officers are to be nominated and elected will assume office within 30 days of the election and hold that office for a period of 2 years. Normally elections will be held in December of the election year and become effective in January. Consecutive terms are permitted. The Chapter / Detachment Commander will vote only in the event there is a tie. 3. Chapter / Detachment officers will be elected in alternating annual elections in order to ensure continuity of leadership. Chapter / Detachment Commander, Secretary and Sergeant at Arms will be elected during one annual election (generally odd years: 2013, 2015, 2017, etc.) while the Executive Officer, Treasurer and Public Relations Officer will be elected the alternating year (generally even years: 2014, 2016, 2018, etc.). Terms of office may be adjusted from one to three years by the Chapter Commander or State Representative in order to align elections with continuity of leadership. 4. Should an elected officer resign from office for any reason the Commander may appoint a replacement to serve until the next scheduled election or a special election may be held. In the case of the resignation of the Chapter Commander, the State Representative will appoint a replacement to serve until the next scheduled election or a special election may be held. Any position left unfilled at the election may be filled by appointment by the chapter commander or by special election.

Duties of Officers: Article 5 Section 1 The duties of Detachment officers will mirror those of their corresponding Chapter officer counterpart. Detachment officers and membership will remain accountable to the leadership of the Chapter.

Section 2 The Commander will preside over all meetings of the association; serve as the senior executive officer member of all committees, issue the call for regular and special chapter meetings, schedule regular elections, insure they are held IAW the National constitution and carry out the directives of the State and National Board of Directors. A key function will be to maintain and facilitate communications with other motorcycle clubs, associations and sister chapters in order to foster an environment of mutual respect and camaraderie. Chapter officer positions are accountable to the Chapter Commander and are allowed to be temporarily filled as required. Position of the commander is a nominated and voted position by the chapter full members. Section 3 The Executive Officer will perform all duties of the Commander in his absence. The Executive Officer will act as Vice and advise the Chapter Commander and serve as counsel to all other officer positions. A key function will be to maintain and facilitate communications with other motorcycle clubs, associations and sister chapters in order to foster an environment of mutual respect and camaraderie. Position of the Executive Officer is a nominated and voted position by the chapter full members. Section 4 The Secretary shall keep minutes during all special meetings, general meetings and assume all administrative duties to record the activities of the chapter and its membership. Position of Secretary is a nominated and voted position by the chapter full members. The Duties of Treasurer and Secretary may be combined by the Chapter Commander as needed. Section 5 The Treasurer will collect forms of income due to the chapter, maintain the accounting books, make payments from the chapter funds when so ordered by the Commander, sign all chapter checks and make regular reports of the chapters financial status to the Chapter Officers, State Representative and general membership and meet national BOD reporting requirements. The position of Treasurer is a nominated and voted position by the chapter full members. The Duties of Treasurer and Secretary may be combined by the Chapter Commander as needed.

Section 6 The Public Relations Officer will maintain a file and have it ready to present at each meeting and all chapter functions. He/She will be in charge of all the Chapter publicity, in conjunction with and approved by the chapter Commander. Duties include: Chapter Historian, chapter file, pictures, newspaper articles, TV and radio announcements and the chapters web site. A key function will be to maintain and facilitate communications with other motorcycle clubs, associations and sister chapters in order to foster an environment of mutual respect and camaraderie. The Public Relations Officer is a nominated and voted position by the chapter full members. The Executive Officer may be required to perform these duties in the absence of a Public Relations Officer by the Chapter Commander as needed. Webmaster duties may be appointed separately by Chapter Commander. Section 7 Sergeant at Arms will maintain order during CVMA meeting's and check members ID cards before each meeting will start. Maintains order at meetings in particular, and activities in general. Ensures that members adhere to rulings, policies, and expected models of conduct when dealing with other members or outsiders. Prevents behavior that may cause issues or misunderstandings with other organizations or dominate MC, (this is a safety issue). Ensure membership behavior in the community always reflects a positive relationship between the CVMA and the community we serve. Ensure the safety of members when participating in rides, meetings, socials, etc. (Overall riding practices, alcohol consumption, etc.) Earns trust of other clubs, associations and organizations in order to serve as a key point of contact for their leadership to communicate with Chapter Commander. Reports all violations, concerns or issues to chapter leadership. Will also supervise the positions of Road Captain and Tail Gunner. The Sergeant at Arms is a nominated and voted position by the chapter full members. Section 8 The Road Captains will be responsible for planning rides and events. Planning routes to include starting location/time, rest stops and fuel stops. Leads most rides, provides safety briefing before each ride including explanation of riding in a staggered formation, hand/arm signals and steps in case of emergencies. The position of Road Captain may be appointed by the Commander with a ratio of 1:10; 1 road captain for every 10 members. A Lead Road Captain may be appointed by the Commander, who will supervise the road captains and tail gunners. These positions will fall under the direction of the SAA. Section 9 The Tail Gunner will be responsible for maintaining the formation. Corresponding with the Road Captain to maintain integrity of formation. Responsible for assigning traffic control measures to members as well as assisting with any breakdowns or emergencies. The position of Tail Gunner may be appointed by the Commander with a ration of 1:10; 1 tail gunner for every 10 members. These positions will fall under the direction of the SAA and the Lead Road Captain.

Section 10 The Quartermaster acquisitions CVMA merchandise from the State and National Quartermaster for its members. Shall design, acquire, sell and distribute local Chapter merchandise with the majority approval of the membership. Shall maintain Chapter property and coordinate logistical support for Association functions. Shall keep correct and complete books and records of account. Give financial status to the Chapter Officers and general membership. The Quartermaster is under the direction of the Treasurer and shall make regular reports of orders, received merchandise, items on hand and items each member has received. The Quartermaster is an appointed position and is not in the Chapter Chain of Command. Section 11 The Chaplain is an advisor to the officers to assist in maintaining a positive image of the club and its members and provide for the spiritual growth, guidance, and protection of all members and their families. Conduct prayer before all formal meetings, rides, and functions. The chaplain will be available to provide any form of counseling, to be held in confidence between the chaplain and the said member, upon the request of any member. Chaplain is not required to attend any chapter functions that conflict with any spiritual beliefs. The Chaplain is an appointed position and is not in the Chapter Chain of Command. Additional chaplains may be appointed to meet the needs of the membership. Section 12 The Chapter Commander may appoint past officers as Senior Advisor, to provide mentorship, guidance and counsel to the Chapter Board of Directors. The Senior Advisor is an appointed position and is not in the Chapter Chain of Command. Meetings: Article 6 Section 1 Chapter / Detachment meetings will normally be held monthly throughout the year from January to December. Meetings are not mandatory but highly recommended. Members should attend one sanctioned event per year to remain in good standing. Members who are unable to attend one sanctioned event each year will be addressed on a case by case basis. Section 2 Special meetings or can be called by the State Representative, Commander, Executive Officer or Sergeant at Arms or any two Full Members in Good Standing with the approval of the Chain of Command. The Chapter Board of Directors may conduct board meetings in Executive Session to perform the day to day functions of the chapter to include operations and discipline.

Section 3 If a Chapter Officer cannot attend at least six meetings per year his/her resignation from the position may be requested; with the exception of (family/medical emergencies, deployments, etc), determined on a case by case basis. Delegations: Article 7 Section 1 Delegations may be appointed by the State Representative or Chapter Commander to represent the chapter at any convention, meeting, rally or other assembly that may be deemed necessary and all delegations are authorized to exercise only those powers specifically vested in them by State Representative or Chapter Commander. Section 2 Committees may be formed by the Board of Directors, Chain of Command or Membership to separately meet to assist in event or project planning and will provide periodic progress reports to the Board and the membership. Committees are authorized to exercise only those powers specifically vested in them for the purpose formed. Amendments: Article 8 Section 1 The membership may present amendments to the by-laws when ratified by the majority of the chapter membership. Amendments once passed will take place immediately. Section 2 Amendments can be submitted by full members only. Must be for the good of all chapter members and cannot take away from National by-laws. Must receive the majority of votes to be passed. May be vetoed by the Chapter Commander or State Representative.