2010 Chapter Election Update – A Note from Darcie Lunsford

By now many of you have heard about the controversy surrounding the last South Florida SPJ election.

Michael Koretzky has resigned from the board in an effort to help move this matter toward a conclusion. Consistent with our bylaws, as Executive Vice President I will assume the position of President effective Jan. 1, 2010.

Several members have raised questions about voting qualifications, related bylaws, and the necessary qualifications to hold seats on the board. Over the next few weeks, I will be working to examine those issues in consultation with board members — the current board and the board members-elect — and with the national SPJ organization. I expect that some of these questions may require amendments to our bylaws or at least some form of board action.

While there are some hard feelings on both sides of these issues, I hope we can all move forward for the good of the organization and journalists in South Florida. I welcome your comments and suggestions. As always, I encourage your participation in the affairs of SPJ. Happy Thanksgiving.

Darcie Lunsford