Governing Body Report September/October 2010

Actor Combatant and Friend Representative Mike Speck: Well, the 2010 NSCW has come to a close – and the Spring 2010 Governing Body meeting that preceded it as well.  Here’s a *brief* overview of the topics covered and decisions made at that meeting:

• The website, as you might expect, got a great deal of discussion. The personal pages for ACs and AACs are almost live; these will give each member a presence on the SAFD site – city/state, weapon proficiencies, and contact email for ACs, making it easier for directors and choreographers to find qualified fighters and easier for you to find classmates and practice partners.  AACs will also be able to post a headshot, a brief bio, and a personal website link.
• FM fees for adjudication haven’t been adjusted in nearly two decades.  Expect them to increase, marginally, in the next two-to-three years.  The fee structure for testing in multiple weapons will also change.
• There is definite interest in the possibility of moving the TCW to a two-year cycle rather than its current three-year rotation, but that decision hasn’t yet been made.  If you have strong opinions (or better still, strong arguments) either way, PLEASE send them to me at ACRep@safd.org.
• The new Basic/Renewal SPT system also inspired a lot of discussion, especially now that we have a full year (and a few months of 2010) of data to look at.  The GB is reluctant to change the system again so soon after the last change, but we are definitely keeping tabs on how this system is working out for the membership at large.  Please drop me a line (at the email address above) if you have any questions or confusions on the system (or if anyone else does…).
• Lastly, next year’s NSCW will fall earlier in the calendar year than previously, because of changes to UNCSA’s summer school schedule. Right now, it looks like June 20 – July 8 will be the dates for NSCW 2011. Obviously, more information will be available as NSCW 2011 gets closer.