Central Arkansas Scale Modelers
Bylaws Effective 3/12/22
Article I: NAME, 501c(7) TAX EXEMPTION STATUS, MEMBERS, POLICIES, OBJECTIVES, AND AFFILIATION
Section 1: Name and History
The organization governed by these Bylaws is the IPMS/AMPS Lt. j.g. Nathan Gordon - Central Arkansas Scale Modelers (CASM).
In 1999 four modelers from the Little Rock area came together along with HobbyTown USA owner Roger Ellenburg, to take the first steps in creating what has since become IPMS Central Arkansas Scale Modelers - Lt. j.g. Nathan Gordon. Meeting at McDonalds on Rodney Parham Bob Patton, Ron Leker, Ed Swaim and one other initial member first met in the hopes of finding other folks in Central Arkansas with an interest in building plastic models. They selected officers at the meeting and Roger Ellenburg put up the funds for the original club charter with IPMS. From those meager beginnings CASM has grown from the original five members to what is seen today
Our namesake, Nathan Green Gordon is one of only 6 naval aviators to be awarded the Medal of Honor during World War II, and the only Arkansan to receive the medal for participating in air combat against the enemy.
Born September 4, 1916 in Morrilton, Arkansas, Gordon enlisted in the US Navy in May 1941 and was in Jacksonville, Florida training until February 1942. He joined VP-34 in Norfolk, Virginia.
Upon completing training on the Catalina, Gordon’s squadron was sent to Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. The Black Cats flew both day and night missions to protect convoys against U-boats.
In June 1943, VP-34 was transferred to San Diego, where they picked up PBY-5's on their way to Kaneohe, Hawaii. From Hawaii, Gordon and his squadron found themselves flying missions from Midway, Australia, and in January 1944 on to Samaria Island near New Guinea. It was from here that Gordon entered the hall of Navy heroes when he and the crew of “Arkansas Traveler,” Bu No. 08139, flew a mission supporting a bombing raid on Kavieng.
On February 15, 1944, while on a mission to Vitu Island with an escort of four P-47 Thunderbolts, Gordon and his crew received a call that an A-20 had ditched and to go to Kavieng for a rescue.
Flying in to the closed harbor at Kavieng Gordon and his crewmates had to face 15 to 18 foot swells.
When they arrived, they were unable to tell if anyone was alive near the wreckage so they put the plane down to assess the situation. After marking the area with smoke, Gordon put his Black Cat down between the swells to search for the crew. Gordon’s crew found some debris, two life jackets and a half inflated raft.
Once airborne again a second call, this one from a B- 25 that was serving as a spotter aircraft, about another B-25 that had gone down. Provided with coordinates for the downed B- 25 Gordon went in search of the crew. Setting the Catalina down in the rough seas once more, Gordon’s crew spotted six crewmen from the bomber in the water.
Gordon had to shut down one of the Catalina’s two engines to pull the crew from the sea to keep the downed crew from being hit by the prop in the high seas. “Arkansas Traveler” was under fire from shore the whole time they were loading the crew.
Gordon fired up the engine again and put the Black Cat back into the air. Once airborne, Gordon turned the ship towards home, only to receive another radio call about a downed bomber.
Having lost two of the escort fighters to low fuel, Gordon headed back in to pull another crew from the sea.
On this, their third landing, the Black Cat crew lost their last two escorts as they headed for home with low fuel. Landing within a mile of the shore the Arkansas Traveler crew pulled three bomber crewmen from the waters.
Having survived three landings under enemy fire, and in high seas, the now overcrowded Cat turned towards home once more.
After only a few minutes and about 20 miles, the radio crackled to life once more with the call for pick up for another downed B-25 crew, this time even closer to shore than before.
Now without an escort, and fearing being jumped by the enemy floatplanes they had been warned about, Gordon asked the crew of the spotter aircraft, "Are you going to stay with me?" and he replied back "Yes."
Going in for a fourth landing, Gordon knew he would have to set down even closer to shore than before.
Landing only 600 yards from shore, Gordon had to bring Arkansas Traveler in for the approach over the town, and some very heavy AAA fire.
Once down the crew pulled the five surviving bomber crewmen in through the waist position. This time Gordon saved the hide of a fellow Arkansan, the pilot was Captain William Cavoli, of Newport, Arkansas.
With 15 rescued crewmen aboard and the Black Cats own crewmembers, Gordon now headed for Finschafen where they dropped off the rescued airmen. Many of the bomber crewmen were injured and required attention by the “Arkansas Traveler” crewmen.
Gordon’s entire crew was flown to Brisbane, where they received the Silver Star, and Gordon was presented with the Congressional Medal of Honor in September 1944.
Upon the end of the war and his return to Arkansas in 1946 Gordon served the State of Arkansas as the longest serving Lieutenant Governor in the state’s history. Gordon served as Lt. Governor for 20 years, 1947- 1967, serving ten two year terms as a Democrat under four different Governors: Benjamin Travis Laney (1947-1949), Sid McMath (1949-1953), Francis Cherry (1953-1955), and Orval Faubus (1955-1967).
During the integration of Central High School in 1957 it was Gordon that ordered, during the absence of Gov. Orval Faubus, 50 Arkansas State Troopers to the school to act as security. He also said that if necessary he would call out the Arkansas National Guard in order to prevent violence during that crisis.
Nathan Gordon died Sept. 8, 2008 in Little Rock at the age of 92.
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Section 2: 501c(7) Tax Exepmtion Status
CASM is officially a non-profit, tax-exempt entity, be advised that per Title 26 of the U.S. Code that donations made to 501c(7) organizations ARE NOT tax deductible. Every donor MUST be informed that their donation to CASM IS NOT tax deductible for personal federal or state tax purposes. Members must be extremely careful with any wording that is used when soliciting donations from the general public and/or members.
Letter 948 needs to be kept in a safe place and made available to the general public if a request for said document is made. A copy of this document MUST BE on hand at every club function (general meeting, yearly show or otherwise). Although uncommon, it is not unheard of for federal or state revenue agents to show up as the “general public” and request said document. Letter 948 is currently kept digitally in a same named folder in the cc_casm@hotmail.com email account. Hard copies must always be brought to meetings by the Club Secretary, Club Treasurer, Club Vice President, and the President.
Per IRS regulations, the club’s financial records and books MUST be kept up-to-date AT ALL TIMES and made available upon request to the general public or the federal/state taxation authorities. Failure to keep up-to-date financial records can result in the CASM’s tax-exempt status being revoked.
CASM is required to file a yearly 990 tax return that began for tax year 2021 reconciling the income/expense & other financial records of the organization. Failure to timely file tax returns can result in the CASM’s tax-exempt status being revoked.
Section 3: Members
CASM has a ZERO TOLERANCE POLICY on discrimination.
Membership is open to ALL PEOPLE regardless of race, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, religion, or age.
A person may join by submitting membership information to the Secretary and paying dues.
Membership will continue as long as the member continues to pay dues and abide by CASM By-Laws and policies. Members cannot pay for another or have their membership paid for by another Member with the expectation of favors. Purchase of a membership not of your own is limited to one.
A member who pays dues and attends at least three club meetings or 1 meeting and made at least two self-contributing posts on our Facebook Builds Page post at least three months prior to an officer election may vote or be voted for in an officer election. It is suggested anyone who plans to nominate or be nominated be consulted prior to elections so the member has time to think it over an decide if they want to run for office.
CASM is a family friendly group while disagreements and healthy discussions are allowed and encouraged, members found to be confrontational or who do not abide by CASM by-laws or policies may be removed from all club activities.
Members are to help keep the club compliant at all times with its 501c(7).
From here on out in the bylaws members is referring to Paid Members. Anybody who attends CASM functions and are not a (Paid) Member will be considered a Guest and referred to as such.
Section 4: Policies
Policies not set out in the Bylaws may be suggested by paid club members or the Executive Board at which point a vote may be made and added to the Bylaws. It is STRONGLY SUGGESTED that the Tax Exemption Status Section and Member Section remain untouched unless absolutely necessary in order to stay compliant with the IRS and State.
Section 5: Objectives
CASM’s objectives are to have fun while promoting scale modeling hobby and improving members’ skills through clinics, contests, exhibits, lectures, research, public service, and other means.
Section 6: Affiliation
a. CASM will remain a chartered chapter of the International Plastic Modelers Society-United States of America Branch (IPMS-USA) until such time as a majority of the membership, votes to leave.
b. CASM will remain a chartered chapter of the Armor Modeling Preservation Society (AMPS) until such time as a majority of the membership, votes to leave.
b. CASM may simultaneously affiliate with any other organization sharing its objectives upon majority vote of the Executive Board and a majority vote of club members at a club meeting.
Article III: MEETINGS
Section 1: General Meetings
a. CASM will meet monthly on dates and at locations to be determined by the Executive Board. The current is set up as meeting at HobbyTown 2755 Lakewood Village Drive, North Little Rock, Arkansas 72116 at 10 am on the Second Saturday of every month.
b. The paid members present at a properly scheduled and noticed meeting will constitute a quorum.
c. Any attendee that is not a paid member is considered a guest. They are more than welcome to actively participate and encouraged to do so. However they do not have any voting power.
c. Meetings are intended to be fun. Activities will include presentations and discussions of modeling techniques, display and discussion of current member projects, and occasional contests. Business will be kept to a minimum, but will include such items as informing the membership of news and upcoming events, and announcement or confirmation of Executive Board decisions.
Article IV: EXECUTIVE BOARD AND OFFICERS
Section 1 Executive Board
a. The Executive Board consists of elected and appointed officers whom are club dues paying members of at least 3 months.
b. The Executive Board is responsible for promoting the objectives of CASM, ensuring its smooth operation, holding interesting and informative meetings, and increasing membership.
c. Meetings of the Executive Board should be held quarterly and may be called by the President.
d. Notice must be provided in person, telephone, e-mail, or mail to Executive Board members at least 24 hours before a meeting.
e. The presence of four (4) elected officers constitutes a quorum.
f. An action of the Executive Board requires a majority vote of elected officers present at a meeting. Appointed officers whom may be present do not have voting power.
g. The Executive Board will adopt a dues policy.
h. The Executive Board will determine a calendar of general meetings and events and prepare an annual budget.
i. Any Executive Board decision may be referred to the membership upon the request of any elected officer.
j. Executive Board meeting discussions and results will be reported to the membership by posting meeting minutes on the club Facebook Page.
k. Keep the club compliant at all times with its 501c(7) status as well as compliant with IPMS and AMPS Status.
Section 2: Elected Officers
a. The membership will elect a President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, and Contest Chairman(s), in that order with a term of two (2) years.
b. Newly elected officers will assume office at the first general meeting following the annual club contest. In the event that a contest is not held, the newly elected officers will assume office at the first general meeting following the end of the incumbent officers’ two year term. As of now the new terms start in the month of November every two years.
c. If a member of the Executive Board has a life change, or passes away, the Executive Board will fill vacant elected positions until a special election by the CASM membership can be held to fill the vacated office. If the vacancy occurred close to the time of the scheduled election of officers then the election to replace the vacant position will be held at that time.
d. The President may appoint and remove a Newsletter Editor, Webmaster, or other positions and committees as needed who may simultaneously hold another office. These positions are not Elected Board Positions. These positions hold no voting power. They may attend Executive Board Meetings if invited but have no voting power.
e. If the vacant position was due to resignation of said position, the resigned officer or appointee may return to the position through a standard club election. If the vacancy was due to removal they must follow steps laid out in Article: V, Section: 3.
f. Keep the club compliant at all times with its 501c(7) status as well as compliant with IPMS and AMPS Status.
Sub-Section: 2.1 President
The President leads CASM, acts as its primary representative, and will:
a. Keep a paid IPMS and Club Membership throughout his/hers term.
b. Keep the club compliant at all times with its 501c(7) status as well as compliant with IPMS and AMPS Status.
c. Keep a copy of CASMs IRS Letter 948 with them at all events.
d. Preside over Executive Board and general meetings.
e. Appoint and remove a Newsletter Editor, Webmaster, Contest Committee, and committees as s/he deems necessary.
f. Keep CASMs relationship strong with HobbyTown and any other local shop that helps support the club.
g. Can hold up to two consecutive terms before they must step down and wait for another President to serve a term before running for President again.
Sub-Section: 2.2 Vice President
The Vice President will:
a. Keep a paid IPMS and Club Membership throughout his/her terms.
b. Keep the club compliant at all times with its 501c(7) status as well as compliant with IPMS and AMPS Status.
c. Keep a copy of CASMs IRS Letter 948 with them at all events.
d. In the absence of the President preside over Executive Board and general meetings; and
e. Arrange informative and entertaining programs for general meetings.
Sub-Section: 2.3 Secretary
The Secretary will:
a. Keep a paid IPMS and Club Membership throughout his/her terms.
b. Keep the club compliant at all times with its 501c(7) status as well as compliant with IPMS and AMPS Status.
c. Keep a copy of CASMs IRS Letter 948 with them at all events.
d. Keep minutes of general and Executive Board meetings and post them monthly on the club Facebook Page.
e. Maintain the official membership list as well as their IPMS Info for records sake and for the Club Contact to use on the Club Fact Sheet sent yearly to IPMS when re-chartering.
f. Keep a copy of the IPMS/USA Chapter Fact Sheet in a same named folder on the Club Contacts E-Mail.
g. Keep a copy of Paypal information stored in a same named folder on the Club Contacts E-mail.
h. Keep IPMS Account up to date on IPMS Website (Use Club Contact as Login Email).
i. Work with Treasurer to send and pay yearly IPMS Info Sheet and Charter Renewel Fee.
j. Act as official point of contact between the general membership of CASM and its Executive Board.
k. Act as official point of contact between CASM and other modeling clubs and organizations.
l. Provide meeting notification by mail or electronic mail to the membership and by other means to the general public.
m. Distribute newsletters received from various modeling clubs and organizations to any interested club members by maintaining a subscription list.
n. Update the clubs Facebook Page with Minutes, Agendas, or any other items the E-Board may need distributed as well as sharing those posts to the build page.
Sub-Section: 2.4 Treasurer
The Treasurer will:
a. Keep a paid IPMS and Club Membership throughout his/her terms.
b. Keep the club compliant at all times with its 501c(7) status as well as compliant with IPMS and AMPS Status.
c. Keep a copy of CASMs IRS Letter 948 with them at all events.
d. Collect and safeguard all CASM funds.
e. Maintain its 501c(7) status by keeping and having accurate accounting of revenues and expenses AT ALL TIMES on them in the event the IRS, State, or General Public request such information.
f. Provide an accounting quarterly to the club as a whole through the Club Contacts E-mail list.
g. Prepare a draft budget for approval by the Executive Board.
h. Pay for the yearly IPMS Charter
i. Keep the contest chairman on the clubs Bank Account in the event of emergency funds being needed.
j. Keep Access to the Paypal Account.
k. Safeguard the clubs Checkbook, Debit Card, Paypal, and any other forms of payment at their disposal.
l. Keep tax records for the preceding 7 years with year 1 starting in 2021.
Sub-Section: 2.5 Contest Chairman(s)
The Contest Chairman(s) will:
a. Keep a paid Club Membership throughout his/her terms.
b. Keep the club compliant at all times with its 501c(7) status as well as compliant with IPMS and AMPS Status.
c. Act as or appoint a Head Judge for the annual CASM contest.
d. Organize and oversee the annual CASM contest and Contest Committee.
e. With the approval of the Executive Board, publish contest judging criteria, modeler classification, and categories.
f. Train possible future Contest Chairpersons whom may succeed them.
g. Keep their name as a secondary on the clubs Bank Account as they will be most likely need to make the most purchases.
h. Maintain its 501c(7) status by keeping accurate accounting of revenues and expenses AT ALL TIMES for the Treasurer.
Section: 3 Appointments
Sub-Section 3.1 Newsletter Editor
The Newsletter Editor will publish a newsletter or articles to CASMs website or e-mail for members and the public to enjoy.
Sub-Section: 3.2 Webmaster
The Webmaster is responsible for creation, maintenance, and timely updates of the Website.
Sub-Section: 3.3 Contest Committee
Working under the oversight of the Contest Chairman, organizes the annual CASM Contest, prepares a proposed budget for the contest, and reports monthly to the general membership of progress related to the annual contest at the monthly general meeting. Anybody on this committee who is not an Executive Officer has no voting ability at an Elected Board Level. The President can be present at the meeting to offer suggestions but has no committee voting privilege. However the President has the power to request a vote be brought before the entire club.
Article V: ELECTION, REMOVAL, and REINSTATEMENT
Section: 1 Voter Eligibility
All Paid Members who have paid membership dues and have attended at least three Club meetings or 1 club meeting and two self-contributing posts on the clubs Facebook Page within a 12 month period prior to the club officer elections meeting are eligible to vote or be voted on in an officer elections.
Section: 2 Nomination Meeting
a. Candidates for elected positions may be nominated from the floor by any CASM member, including the candidate, during the annual nomination meeting which is held in June. It is suggested the member be made aware prior to the meeting that they will be nominated. This will give time for the Member to decide if they want to run. Nomination must be seconded by another member.
b. The membership will elect a President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, and Contest Chairman in that order.
c. No member may be nominated for more than one (1) elected position during an election cycle.
d. A CASM member must be present day of nomination to either nominate or be nominated, if they know beforehand they will not be present they may call in or submit a letter of intent to the E-board prior to the June nomination meeting
e. At the June Meeting an Election Committee of two disinterested volunteers, candidates and incumbent officers cannot be members of this committee, is formed at the nomination meeting.
Section: 3 Election Procedure
Elections are to be by secret ballot at the July meeting. Printed ballots are provided at the meeting, collected, and tallied by the Election Committee. If a member is unable to attend the meeting, an absentee ballot may be obtained by contacting the Election Committee prior to the election day. Absentee and electronic ballot procedures are published on the club Website and Facebook Page. Absentee ballots are to be completed and returned to the Election Committee prior to the counting of the regular ballots in July. Elected officers are determined by a plurality of the votes cast. The results and tallies are announced at the officer election general meeting in August.
Section: 4 Removal
Sub-Section 4.1 Removal of Club Officers
A motion during a general meeting by any member and properly seconded to remove an elected officer may be carried by majority vote of the membership at the next general meeting.
Sub-Section 4.2 Removal of a Club Member from Club Activities
a. Any member of CASM may be dropped from the rolls of CASM by the Executive Board for reasons felt to be detrimental to CASM and its objectives.
b. All motions or petitions of dismissal must be made in writing to The Executive Board. The motion or petition must clearly state the reason for grievance and include the signatures of at least 5 general members.
c. The Executive Board will conduct an investigation into the matter and allow the affected member an opportunity to present their case before the Board. These said meetings are held privately between the Executive Board and the affected member.
d. After said investigation, the Executive Board meets “in conclave” to decide on and vote on a suitable course of action that will be taken, up to and including dismissal from the club and its affiliated activities but may also include probationary periods that include, but are not limited to, 3-months, 6-months, or 12 months. The Executive Board will not base it’s decision on personal bias or personal grievances and will look solely at the facts presented to them and, after due consideration and discussion, adopt a course of action most beneficial to CASM as a whole and it’s individual members.
e. Decisions of the Executive Board are final and presented to the club at the next scheduled general meeting; but not discussed openly in the general meetings or any public forums out of respect to and to protect the privacy of the affected member.
f. Dismissed members will have returned to them any subscription monies due them and will be notified by the President of CASM of the action taken by the Executive Board within 30 days.
g. If a Member gives notice of voluntarily quitting they forfeit all funds and are dismissed from the club and its affiliated activities for 12 months.
Sub-Section 4.3 Reinstatement of a Removed club Member to Participate in CASM Activities
a. A member who is removed or had quit may seek reinstatement to participate in CASM activities and become a member of CASM after 12 months.
b. A member desiring reinstatement must contact a member of the Executive Board in writing expressing their desire for reinstatement.
c. The Executive Board will bring the members name for reinstatement to the following general meeting for a vote of reinstatement. The person is reinstated by a 2/3 majority vote.
d. The person seeking reinstatement is informed of the results of the vote within a reasonable period of time.
e. Application for reinstatement may be made yearly.
Article: IX MONEY
Section: 1 General
CASM money is to be obtained through dues, donations, fundraisers and any other lawful means granted to it through its 501c(7) Status. Every transaction is to be accounted for. No transaction can violate its 501c(7) Status.
Section: 2 Uses
The funds and or items (assets) CASM receives must go towards CASM events hosted by its members and E-Board or as donations to other organizations or events voted on by members. Any club expenditure of $200 or more relating to a CASM show or event must be recommended by the Executive Board and approved by a majority of the membership prior to the expenditure. Any other expenditure must be approved by majority vote of Members. Guests may enjoy any of the events or shows that CASM hosts, however there may be a fee involved.
Section: 3 Reimbursement
Due to 501c(7) status Reimbursement for materials, supplies, or services are no longer allowed. Anything purchased for the club will be considered a donation.
Section: 4 Membership Dues
a. Cost of adult membership is $15.00. Cost of Junior (17 and under) membership is $5.00.
b. Membership dues are due at the end of membership term whenever they end. Memberships are considered delinquent after 30 days if the member is not on military deployment.
c. The delinquent payment of dues removes a person from the membership roles and the person loses all rights and privileges of membership until they become a member through the payment of dues. They will be considered a guest until such time membership is no longer delinquent.
Section: 5 PayPal
Access to the Club PayPal account is granted only to Treasurer and Show Coordinator.
Article: X DISSOLUTION
Section: 1 Procedure
A motion to dissolve the club must be approved by all five voting members of the Executive Board. The affirmative vote to dissolve is then brought forward for a majority vote by club members attending the next general meeting.
Section: 2 Disbursement of Club Funds
If CASM dissolves for any reason, all assets will be used to pay debts. Remaining assets will be donated to a non-profit organization at the discretion of the Executive Board.
Article: XI AMENDMENT
By majority vote, the membership present may amend the Bylaws.
Article: XII REGULAR REVIEW OF BYLAWS
Each incoming Executive Board, after the general election by the club, reviews the Bylaws and any recommended changes are published for review by club members during the month following the first Executive Board meeting with a member vote during the club meeting after the month of review.
Section 1: Name and History
The organization governed by these Bylaws is the IPMS/AMPS Lt. j.g. Nathan Gordon - Central Arkansas Scale Modelers (CASM).
In 1999 four modelers from the Little Rock area came together along with HobbyTown USA owner Roger Ellenburg, to take the first steps in creating what has since become IPMS Central Arkansas Scale Modelers - Lt. j.g. Nathan Gordon. Meeting at McDonalds on Rodney Parham Bob Patton, Ron Leker, Ed Swaim and one other initial member first met in the hopes of finding other folks in Central Arkansas with an interest in building plastic models. They selected officers at the meeting and Roger Ellenburg put up the funds for the original club charter with IPMS. From those meager beginnings CASM has grown from the original five members to what is seen today
Our namesake, Nathan Green Gordon is one of only 6 naval aviators to be awarded the Medal of Honor during World War II, and the only Arkansan to receive the medal for participating in air combat against the enemy.
Born September 4, 1916 in Morrilton, Arkansas, Gordon enlisted in the US Navy in May 1941 and was in Jacksonville, Florida training until February 1942. He joined VP-34 in Norfolk, Virginia.
Upon completing training on the Catalina, Gordon’s squadron was sent to Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. The Black Cats flew both day and night missions to protect convoys against U-boats.
In June 1943, VP-34 was transferred to San Diego, where they picked up PBY-5's on their way to Kaneohe, Hawaii. From Hawaii, Gordon and his squadron found themselves flying missions from Midway, Australia, and in January 1944 on to Samaria Island near New Guinea. It was from here that Gordon entered the hall of Navy heroes when he and the crew of “Arkansas Traveler,” Bu No. 08139, flew a mission supporting a bombing raid on Kavieng.
On February 15, 1944, while on a mission to Vitu Island with an escort of four P-47 Thunderbolts, Gordon and his crew received a call that an A-20 had ditched and to go to Kavieng for a rescue.
Flying in to the closed harbor at Kavieng Gordon and his crewmates had to face 15 to 18 foot swells.
When they arrived, they were unable to tell if anyone was alive near the wreckage so they put the plane down to assess the situation. After marking the area with smoke, Gordon put his Black Cat down between the swells to search for the crew. Gordon’s crew found some debris, two life jackets and a half inflated raft.
Once airborne again a second call, this one from a B- 25 that was serving as a spotter aircraft, about another B-25 that had gone down. Provided with coordinates for the downed B- 25 Gordon went in search of the crew. Setting the Catalina down in the rough seas once more, Gordon’s crew spotted six crewmen from the bomber in the water.
Gordon had to shut down one of the Catalina’s two engines to pull the crew from the sea to keep the downed crew from being hit by the prop in the high seas. “Arkansas Traveler” was under fire from shore the whole time they were loading the crew.
Gordon fired up the engine again and put the Black Cat back into the air. Once airborne, Gordon turned the ship towards home, only to receive another radio call about a downed bomber.
Having lost two of the escort fighters to low fuel, Gordon headed back in to pull another crew from the sea.
On this, their third landing, the Black Cat crew lost their last two escorts as they headed for home with low fuel. Landing within a mile of the shore the Arkansas Traveler crew pulled three bomber crewmen from the waters.
Having survived three landings under enemy fire, and in high seas, the now overcrowded Cat turned towards home once more.
After only a few minutes and about 20 miles, the radio crackled to life once more with the call for pick up for another downed B-25 crew, this time even closer to shore than before.
Now without an escort, and fearing being jumped by the enemy floatplanes they had been warned about, Gordon asked the crew of the spotter aircraft, "Are you going to stay with me?" and he replied back "Yes."
Going in for a fourth landing, Gordon knew he would have to set down even closer to shore than before.
Landing only 600 yards from shore, Gordon had to bring Arkansas Traveler in for the approach over the town, and some very heavy AAA fire.
Once down the crew pulled the five surviving bomber crewmen in through the waist position. This time Gordon saved the hide of a fellow Arkansan, the pilot was Captain William Cavoli, of Newport, Arkansas.
With 15 rescued crewmen aboard and the Black Cats own crewmembers, Gordon now headed for Finschafen where they dropped off the rescued airmen. Many of the bomber crewmen were injured and required attention by the “Arkansas Traveler” crewmen.
Gordon’s entire crew was flown to Brisbane, where they received the Silver Star, and Gordon was presented with the Congressional Medal of Honor in September 1944.
Upon the end of the war and his return to Arkansas in 1946 Gordon served the State of Arkansas as the longest serving Lieutenant Governor in the state’s history. Gordon served as Lt. Governor for 20 years, 1947- 1967, serving ten two year terms as a Democrat under four different Governors: Benjamin Travis Laney (1947-1949), Sid McMath (1949-1953), Francis Cherry (1953-1955), and Orval Faubus (1955-1967).
During the integration of Central High School in 1957 it was Gordon that ordered, during the absence of Gov. Orval Faubus, 50 Arkansas State Troopers to the school to act as security. He also said that if necessary he would call out the Arkansas National Guard in order to prevent violence during that crisis.
Nathan Gordon died Sept. 8, 2008 in Little Rock at the age of 92.
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Section 2: 501c(7) Tax Exepmtion Status
CASM is officially a non-profit, tax-exempt entity, be advised that per Title 26 of the U.S. Code that donations made to 501c(7) organizations ARE NOT tax deductible. Every donor MUST be informed that their donation to CASM IS NOT tax deductible for personal federal or state tax purposes. Members must be extremely careful with any wording that is used when soliciting donations from the general public and/or members.
Letter 948 needs to be kept in a safe place and made available to the general public if a request for said document is made. A copy of this document MUST BE on hand at every club function (general meeting, yearly show or otherwise). Although uncommon, it is not unheard of for federal or state revenue agents to show up as the “general public” and request said document. Letter 948 is currently kept digitally in a same named folder in the cc_casm@hotmail.com email account. Hard copies must always be brought to meetings by the Club Secretary, Club Treasurer, Club Vice President, and the President.
Per IRS regulations, the club’s financial records and books MUST be kept up-to-date AT ALL TIMES and made available upon request to the general public or the federal/state taxation authorities. Failure to keep up-to-date financial records can result in the CASM’s tax-exempt status being revoked.
CASM is required to file a yearly 990 tax return that began for tax year 2021 reconciling the income/expense & other financial records of the organization. Failure to timely file tax returns can result in the CASM’s tax-exempt status being revoked.
Section 3: Members
CASM has a ZERO TOLERANCE POLICY on discrimination.
Membership is open to ALL PEOPLE regardless of race, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, religion, or age.
A person may join by submitting membership information to the Secretary and paying dues.
Membership will continue as long as the member continues to pay dues and abide by CASM By-Laws and policies. Members cannot pay for another or have their membership paid for by another Member with the expectation of favors. Purchase of a membership not of your own is limited to one.
A member who pays dues and attends at least three club meetings or 1 meeting and made at least two self-contributing posts on our Facebook Builds Page post at least three months prior to an officer election may vote or be voted for in an officer election. It is suggested anyone who plans to nominate or be nominated be consulted prior to elections so the member has time to think it over an decide if they want to run for office.
CASM is a family friendly group while disagreements and healthy discussions are allowed and encouraged, members found to be confrontational or who do not abide by CASM by-laws or policies may be removed from all club activities.
Members are to help keep the club compliant at all times with its 501c(7).
From here on out in the bylaws members is referring to Paid Members. Anybody who attends CASM functions and are not a (Paid) Member will be considered a Guest and referred to as such.
Section 4: Policies
Policies not set out in the Bylaws may be suggested by paid club members or the Executive Board at which point a vote may be made and added to the Bylaws. It is STRONGLY SUGGESTED that the Tax Exemption Status Section and Member Section remain untouched unless absolutely necessary in order to stay compliant with the IRS and State.
Section 5: Objectives
CASM’s objectives are to have fun while promoting scale modeling hobby and improving members’ skills through clinics, contests, exhibits, lectures, research, public service, and other means.
Section 6: Affiliation
a. CASM will remain a chartered chapter of the International Plastic Modelers Society-United States of America Branch (IPMS-USA) until such time as a majority of the membership, votes to leave.
b. CASM will remain a chartered chapter of the Armor Modeling Preservation Society (AMPS) until such time as a majority of the membership, votes to leave.
b. CASM may simultaneously affiliate with any other organization sharing its objectives upon majority vote of the Executive Board and a majority vote of club members at a club meeting.
Article III: MEETINGS
Section 1: General Meetings
a. CASM will meet monthly on dates and at locations to be determined by the Executive Board. The current is set up as meeting at HobbyTown 2755 Lakewood Village Drive, North Little Rock, Arkansas 72116 at 10 am on the Second Saturday of every month.
b. The paid members present at a properly scheduled and noticed meeting will constitute a quorum.
c. Any attendee that is not a paid member is considered a guest. They are more than welcome to actively participate and encouraged to do so. However they do not have any voting power.
c. Meetings are intended to be fun. Activities will include presentations and discussions of modeling techniques, display and discussion of current member projects, and occasional contests. Business will be kept to a minimum, but will include such items as informing the membership of news and upcoming events, and announcement or confirmation of Executive Board decisions.
Article IV: EXECUTIVE BOARD AND OFFICERS
Section 1 Executive Board
a. The Executive Board consists of elected and appointed officers whom are club dues paying members of at least 3 months.
b. The Executive Board is responsible for promoting the objectives of CASM, ensuring its smooth operation, holding interesting and informative meetings, and increasing membership.
c. Meetings of the Executive Board should be held quarterly and may be called by the President.
d. Notice must be provided in person, telephone, e-mail, or mail to Executive Board members at least 24 hours before a meeting.
e. The presence of four (4) elected officers constitutes a quorum.
f. An action of the Executive Board requires a majority vote of elected officers present at a meeting. Appointed officers whom may be present do not have voting power.
g. The Executive Board will adopt a dues policy.
h. The Executive Board will determine a calendar of general meetings and events and prepare an annual budget.
i. Any Executive Board decision may be referred to the membership upon the request of any elected officer.
j. Executive Board meeting discussions and results will be reported to the membership by posting meeting minutes on the club Facebook Page.
k. Keep the club compliant at all times with its 501c(7) status as well as compliant with IPMS and AMPS Status.
Section 2: Elected Officers
a. The membership will elect a President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, and Contest Chairman(s), in that order with a term of two (2) years.
b. Newly elected officers will assume office at the first general meeting following the annual club contest. In the event that a contest is not held, the newly elected officers will assume office at the first general meeting following the end of the incumbent officers’ two year term. As of now the new terms start in the month of November every two years.
c. If a member of the Executive Board has a life change, or passes away, the Executive Board will fill vacant elected positions until a special election by the CASM membership can be held to fill the vacated office. If the vacancy occurred close to the time of the scheduled election of officers then the election to replace the vacant position will be held at that time.
d. The President may appoint and remove a Newsletter Editor, Webmaster, or other positions and committees as needed who may simultaneously hold another office. These positions are not Elected Board Positions. These positions hold no voting power. They may attend Executive Board Meetings if invited but have no voting power.
e. If the vacant position was due to resignation of said position, the resigned officer or appointee may return to the position through a standard club election. If the vacancy was due to removal they must follow steps laid out in Article: V, Section: 3.
f. Keep the club compliant at all times with its 501c(7) status as well as compliant with IPMS and AMPS Status.
Sub-Section: 2.1 President
The President leads CASM, acts as its primary representative, and will:
a. Keep a paid IPMS and Club Membership throughout his/hers term.
b. Keep the club compliant at all times with its 501c(7) status as well as compliant with IPMS and AMPS Status.
c. Keep a copy of CASMs IRS Letter 948 with them at all events.
d. Preside over Executive Board and general meetings.
e. Appoint and remove a Newsletter Editor, Webmaster, Contest Committee, and committees as s/he deems necessary.
f. Keep CASMs relationship strong with HobbyTown and any other local shop that helps support the club.
g. Can hold up to two consecutive terms before they must step down and wait for another President to serve a term before running for President again.
Sub-Section: 2.2 Vice President
The Vice President will:
a. Keep a paid IPMS and Club Membership throughout his/her terms.
b. Keep the club compliant at all times with its 501c(7) status as well as compliant with IPMS and AMPS Status.
c. Keep a copy of CASMs IRS Letter 948 with them at all events.
d. In the absence of the President preside over Executive Board and general meetings; and
e. Arrange informative and entertaining programs for general meetings.
Sub-Section: 2.3 Secretary
The Secretary will:
a. Keep a paid IPMS and Club Membership throughout his/her terms.
b. Keep the club compliant at all times with its 501c(7) status as well as compliant with IPMS and AMPS Status.
c. Keep a copy of CASMs IRS Letter 948 with them at all events.
d. Keep minutes of general and Executive Board meetings and post them monthly on the club Facebook Page.
e. Maintain the official membership list as well as their IPMS Info for records sake and for the Club Contact to use on the Club Fact Sheet sent yearly to IPMS when re-chartering.
f. Keep a copy of the IPMS/USA Chapter Fact Sheet in a same named folder on the Club Contacts E-Mail.
g. Keep a copy of Paypal information stored in a same named folder on the Club Contacts E-mail.
h. Keep IPMS Account up to date on IPMS Website (Use Club Contact as Login Email).
i. Work with Treasurer to send and pay yearly IPMS Info Sheet and Charter Renewel Fee.
j. Act as official point of contact between the general membership of CASM and its Executive Board.
k. Act as official point of contact between CASM and other modeling clubs and organizations.
l. Provide meeting notification by mail or electronic mail to the membership and by other means to the general public.
m. Distribute newsletters received from various modeling clubs and organizations to any interested club members by maintaining a subscription list.
n. Update the clubs Facebook Page with Minutes, Agendas, or any other items the E-Board may need distributed as well as sharing those posts to the build page.
Sub-Section: 2.4 Treasurer
The Treasurer will:
a. Keep a paid IPMS and Club Membership throughout his/her terms.
b. Keep the club compliant at all times with its 501c(7) status as well as compliant with IPMS and AMPS Status.
c. Keep a copy of CASMs IRS Letter 948 with them at all events.
d. Collect and safeguard all CASM funds.
e. Maintain its 501c(7) status by keeping and having accurate accounting of revenues and expenses AT ALL TIMES on them in the event the IRS, State, or General Public request such information.
f. Provide an accounting quarterly to the club as a whole through the Club Contacts E-mail list.
g. Prepare a draft budget for approval by the Executive Board.
h. Pay for the yearly IPMS Charter
i. Keep the contest chairman on the clubs Bank Account in the event of emergency funds being needed.
j. Keep Access to the Paypal Account.
k. Safeguard the clubs Checkbook, Debit Card, Paypal, and any other forms of payment at their disposal.
l. Keep tax records for the preceding 7 years with year 1 starting in 2021.
Sub-Section: 2.5 Contest Chairman(s)
The Contest Chairman(s) will:
a. Keep a paid Club Membership throughout his/her terms.
b. Keep the club compliant at all times with its 501c(7) status as well as compliant with IPMS and AMPS Status.
c. Act as or appoint a Head Judge for the annual CASM contest.
d. Organize and oversee the annual CASM contest and Contest Committee.
e. With the approval of the Executive Board, publish contest judging criteria, modeler classification, and categories.
f. Train possible future Contest Chairpersons whom may succeed them.
g. Keep their name as a secondary on the clubs Bank Account as they will be most likely need to make the most purchases.
h. Maintain its 501c(7) status by keeping accurate accounting of revenues and expenses AT ALL TIMES for the Treasurer.
Section: 3 Appointments
Sub-Section 3.1 Newsletter Editor
The Newsletter Editor will publish a newsletter or articles to CASMs website or e-mail for members and the public to enjoy.
Sub-Section: 3.2 Webmaster
The Webmaster is responsible for creation, maintenance, and timely updates of the Website.
Sub-Section: 3.3 Contest Committee
Working under the oversight of the Contest Chairman, organizes the annual CASM Contest, prepares a proposed budget for the contest, and reports monthly to the general membership of progress related to the annual contest at the monthly general meeting. Anybody on this committee who is not an Executive Officer has no voting ability at an Elected Board Level. The President can be present at the meeting to offer suggestions but has no committee voting privilege. However the President has the power to request a vote be brought before the entire club.
Article V: ELECTION, REMOVAL, and REINSTATEMENT
Section: 1 Voter Eligibility
All Paid Members who have paid membership dues and have attended at least three Club meetings or 1 club meeting and two self-contributing posts on the clubs Facebook Page within a 12 month period prior to the club officer elections meeting are eligible to vote or be voted on in an officer elections.
Section: 2 Nomination Meeting
a. Candidates for elected positions may be nominated from the floor by any CASM member, including the candidate, during the annual nomination meeting which is held in June. It is suggested the member be made aware prior to the meeting that they will be nominated. This will give time for the Member to decide if they want to run. Nomination must be seconded by another member.
b. The membership will elect a President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, and Contest Chairman in that order.
c. No member may be nominated for more than one (1) elected position during an election cycle.
d. A CASM member must be present day of nomination to either nominate or be nominated, if they know beforehand they will not be present they may call in or submit a letter of intent to the E-board prior to the June nomination meeting
e. At the June Meeting an Election Committee of two disinterested volunteers, candidates and incumbent officers cannot be members of this committee, is formed at the nomination meeting.
Section: 3 Election Procedure
Elections are to be by secret ballot at the July meeting. Printed ballots are provided at the meeting, collected, and tallied by the Election Committee. If a member is unable to attend the meeting, an absentee ballot may be obtained by contacting the Election Committee prior to the election day. Absentee and electronic ballot procedures are published on the club Website and Facebook Page. Absentee ballots are to be completed and returned to the Election Committee prior to the counting of the regular ballots in July. Elected officers are determined by a plurality of the votes cast. The results and tallies are announced at the officer election general meeting in August.
Section: 4 Removal
Sub-Section 4.1 Removal of Club Officers
A motion during a general meeting by any member and properly seconded to remove an elected officer may be carried by majority vote of the membership at the next general meeting.
Sub-Section 4.2 Removal of a Club Member from Club Activities
a. Any member of CASM may be dropped from the rolls of CASM by the Executive Board for reasons felt to be detrimental to CASM and its objectives.
b. All motions or petitions of dismissal must be made in writing to The Executive Board. The motion or petition must clearly state the reason for grievance and include the signatures of at least 5 general members.
c. The Executive Board will conduct an investigation into the matter and allow the affected member an opportunity to present their case before the Board. These said meetings are held privately between the Executive Board and the affected member.
d. After said investigation, the Executive Board meets “in conclave” to decide on and vote on a suitable course of action that will be taken, up to and including dismissal from the club and its affiliated activities but may also include probationary periods that include, but are not limited to, 3-months, 6-months, or 12 months. The Executive Board will not base it’s decision on personal bias or personal grievances and will look solely at the facts presented to them and, after due consideration and discussion, adopt a course of action most beneficial to CASM as a whole and it’s individual members.
e. Decisions of the Executive Board are final and presented to the club at the next scheduled general meeting; but not discussed openly in the general meetings or any public forums out of respect to and to protect the privacy of the affected member.
f. Dismissed members will have returned to them any subscription monies due them and will be notified by the President of CASM of the action taken by the Executive Board within 30 days.
g. If a Member gives notice of voluntarily quitting they forfeit all funds and are dismissed from the club and its affiliated activities for 12 months.
Sub-Section 4.3 Reinstatement of a Removed club Member to Participate in CASM Activities
a. A member who is removed or had quit may seek reinstatement to participate in CASM activities and become a member of CASM after 12 months.
b. A member desiring reinstatement must contact a member of the Executive Board in writing expressing their desire for reinstatement.
c. The Executive Board will bring the members name for reinstatement to the following general meeting for a vote of reinstatement. The person is reinstated by a 2/3 majority vote.
d. The person seeking reinstatement is informed of the results of the vote within a reasonable period of time.
e. Application for reinstatement may be made yearly.
Article: IX MONEY
Section: 1 General
CASM money is to be obtained through dues, donations, fundraisers and any other lawful means granted to it through its 501c(7) Status. Every transaction is to be accounted for. No transaction can violate its 501c(7) Status.
Section: 2 Uses
The funds and or items (assets) CASM receives must go towards CASM events hosted by its members and E-Board or as donations to other organizations or events voted on by members. Any club expenditure of $200 or more relating to a CASM show or event must be recommended by the Executive Board and approved by a majority of the membership prior to the expenditure. Any other expenditure must be approved by majority vote of Members. Guests may enjoy any of the events or shows that CASM hosts, however there may be a fee involved.
Section: 3 Reimbursement
Due to 501c(7) status Reimbursement for materials, supplies, or services are no longer allowed. Anything purchased for the club will be considered a donation.
Section: 4 Membership Dues
a. Cost of adult membership is $15.00. Cost of Junior (17 and under) membership is $5.00.
b. Membership dues are due at the end of membership term whenever they end. Memberships are considered delinquent after 30 days if the member is not on military deployment.
c. The delinquent payment of dues removes a person from the membership roles and the person loses all rights and privileges of membership until they become a member through the payment of dues. They will be considered a guest until such time membership is no longer delinquent.
Section: 5 PayPal
Access to the Club PayPal account is granted only to Treasurer and Show Coordinator.
Article: X DISSOLUTION
Section: 1 Procedure
A motion to dissolve the club must be approved by all five voting members of the Executive Board. The affirmative vote to dissolve is then brought forward for a majority vote by club members attending the next general meeting.
Section: 2 Disbursement of Club Funds
If CASM dissolves for any reason, all assets will be used to pay debts. Remaining assets will be donated to a non-profit organization at the discretion of the Executive Board.
Article: XI AMENDMENT
By majority vote, the membership present may amend the Bylaws.
Article: XII REGULAR REVIEW OF BYLAWS
Each incoming Executive Board, after the general election by the club, reviews the Bylaws and any recommended changes are published for review by club members during the month following the first Executive Board meeting with a member vote during the club meeting after the month of review.