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CHARTER and BY-LAWS
OF THE
Whiteman Air Force Base Green Knights Riders Association, Chapter 11


CHARTER


ARTICLE I
Name and Authority

The name of this organization shall be the Green Knights Riders Association, Chapter 11, also known as the Green Knights Motorcycle Club and hereafter referred to as the GKMC. They shall have the authority to operate on Whiteman AFB only with the consent of the installation commander. Operation depends on compliance with the requirements and conditions of this charter, Air Force instructions, installation instructions, state laws and associated by-laws and all applicable directives and policies.

The GKMC is affiliated with the Green Knights Motorcycle Club of McGuire AFB, New Jersey, Chapter 1, and shall be recognized as The Green Knights, Chapter 11.

The logo (see attachment 1) and “The Green Knights” name is a legal trademark of Mr. Adam F. Buehler, a government employee stationed at McGuire AFB, New Jersey. Mr. Adam Buehler may be contacted at FirstKnight.

In the event additional Green Knights Chapters are formed at other locations, the newly formed chapter will present a request in writing to the Chapter #1 board members requesting authorization to use the Green Knights name. The new chapter will also present a picture of the logo they want to use.

ARTICLE II
Purpose, Goals, and Objectives

PURPOSE: To establish and maintain a spirit of comradeship and esprit de corps that will enhance the prestige of all motorcycle riders. To encourage on-going rider education and skills development to help reduce the potential of motorcycle mishaps. Set an example for all personnel according to the standards, traditions, and customs of the United States Armed Forces. To operate and conduct itself in a manner that provides equal opportunity and treatment for all motorcyclists.

GOALS:

  1. 1.The GKMC will seek to improve morale, promote rider awareness and skills improvement. The GKMC will seek to enhance the base and local community relationship through community service efforts and events by unifying and combining the unique and individual talents of the GKMC members.

  2. 2.Each member is encouraged to actively participate, to support the objectives of the GKMC by setting a positive example, and to promote the safety and welfare of all members.

OBJECTIVES:

  1. 1.Provide each member with the collective knowledge, experience, and influence of the GKMC positively affecting motorcycling on and off the installation.

  2. 2.Improve rider skills through mentorship for new riders and continuing education for all riders.

  3. 3.Establish an effective means of communication with all members to exchange ideas and keep attuned to changes in attitudes and behaviors of installation riders.

  4. 4.Promote the positive status of motorcycle riders of all services in the United States Armed Forces.

  5. 5.Promote and support safety recognition programs.

  6. 6.Introduce new riders to the GKMC and familiarize them with the goals and objectives of the GKMC.

  7. 7.Promote social gatherings upon the base as well as with local community leaders.

  8. 8.Plan for and promote the use of designated driver and other effective DWI prevention programs with all GKMC sponsored, organized or attended events where alcoholic beverages will be consumed.

  9. 9.Provide a forum wherein any policy, program, or problem of interest to the members in general, and wing leadership in particular, may be discussed freely.

  10. 10.Assist in maintaining a high state of group morale and esprit de corps, while encouraging the highest standards of safety, bearing, and behavior.

  11. 11.Improve the morale and welfare of the GKMC members and their family members.

  12. 12.Invite guest speakers to talk about topics of interest to the members, with emphasis on safety, rider skills, and community/family enhancement.


ARTICLE III
Qualification of Members and Fees

SECTION A: Membership in the GKMC shall be strictly voluntary and without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, or handicap. Membership will not be granted to any prospect or member of a known or unknown outlaw motorcycle club. Active members must have a motorcycle endorsement on their license and maintain insurance as required by law. All active duty military members and civilian employees (as required by DoD and service instructions) will have a Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) Basic RiderCourseSM or Experienced RiderCourseSM completion card. All members must be aware that they are jointly and severely liable for the obligations of the GKMC. Membership shall consist of five categories as defined below:

  1. 1.Active Member (Green Knight): Any individual who resides in the Military system is eligible for membership. To remain a Green Knight, fees must be paid to date. If a Green Knight does not continue to pay their dues, they will have to remove all colors from visual sight. A Green Knight will have full voting privileges, discounts, and eligibility to run for President, Vice-President, and Sgt at Arms.

  2. 2.Associate Member (Squire): Any individual that does not operate a motorcycle, but rides as a passenger. A Squire must be sponsored by a Green Knight in good standing with the GKMC. A Squire will pay half the amount set for the Green Knights to remain as a Squire within the GKMC. A Squire will abide by and be subject to all laws presented in the By-Laws of the GKMC. A Squire will not have the privilege to vote or run for President, Vice-President, or Sgt at Arms. No Green Knight may sponsor more than two Squires.

  3. 3.New Rider Member: Any new member who has less than 1 year riding experience upon applying for active membership or is intending to purchase a motorcycle in conjunction with joining the GKMC. A mentor must be selected from the general membership to observe and advise the new rider for a period of six months. The mentor is selected by an agreed upon decision of the President, Vice President, and Secretary. After completion of the six month period, with mentor concurrence, the individual becomes an active member.

  4. 4.Honorary Member: A member that the club “adopts” as one of their own. Honorary membership may be extended to any person with a simple majority vote of the active members present at any membership meeting, except as mentioned below. They are not a true member, but will be permitted to wear the colors set forth by the GKMC. Such membership shall be restricted to individuals who have taken positive actions that support the GKMC’s purpose, principles, and objectives. Said members will not be required to pay dues and will have no privileges, but will have the complete protection of the club and its members.

  5. 5.Inactive Member: Any individual mentioned above, whose fees are 90 days delinquent. An inactive member is not authorized to vote nor make any motions. However, an inactive member may present information that may be critical to the
    GKMC during debates if approved by the President. Individuals will be issued a 30-day delinquency notice prior to being placed on the inactive member roster.

  6. 6.Rooks: Any individual who has reviewed the by-laws but is yet to sign acknowledgement. Rooks do not have voting privileges and are not allowed to display colors in any aspect. Once a Rook signs the acknowledgement, attends one meeting, participates in one ride, and pays their dues, the club will vote on acceptance into the GKMC.


SECTION B: Active participation and support of projects, activities, and functions of the GKMC are encouraged and are the responsibility of every member.

SECTION C: Membership may be denied or withdrawn from active, honorary, or inactive members under the conditions prescribed by the officers of the GKMC in accordance with Article III, sections A and D, of this charter and Article I of the by-laws (See Road Captains). Membership may terminate at the written request of the member.

SECTION D: Any member convicted of a DUI/DWI will be suspended from active membership status in the GKMC, become an inactive member, and shall forfeit all fees paid to date. Suspension of active membership will be based upon actual loss of base privileges as deemed appropriate by command authorities, based on legal authority.

FEES

  1. 1.Active Member: (Note: dues will be waived for first year of operation and determined by members for subsequent years)

  2. 2.Associate Member: (Note: dues will be waived for first year of operation)

  3. 3.New Rider Member: No fee for first 6-Months then an Active Member

  4. 4.Honorary Member: No annual fee


BY-LAWS

The following By-Laws are set forth for the normal operation and administration of the GKMC and will be directed on, and a guide for, the GKMC officers and members.


ARTICLE I
Officers, Their Duties, Member Duties and Laws, and Elections

SECTION A: (Elected Officers) The following GKMC officers will be elected in accordance with the charter of the GKMC, to serve a period of one year. The position of President must be held by an active duty member or DoD civilian employee to maintain continuity with the installation's leadership and assure direct association with the installation's workforce. There are no restrictions for other elected officers.

  1. 1.President

  2. 2.Vice President>

  3. 3.Sergeant-At-Arms

  4. 4.Secretary>

  5. 5.Treasurer>

  6. 6.Safety Director

  7. 7.Ride Director

  8. 8.Road Captains (4)


The GKMC officers’ election, removal, powers, and responsibilities shall be governed according to the rules contained in “The New Robert’s Rules of Order” except when it is inconsistent with this charter and associated by-laws.

SECTION B: (Duties of Officers)

PRESIDENT

The duties are as follow:

  1. 1.Manage the GKMC according to its Charter, By-laws, and “The New Robert’s Rules of Order.”

  2. 2.Ensure the standardization of rituals is maintained.

  3. 3.Guide and strengthen newly elected officers and initiate them to the duties levied upon them by their duly appointed positions.

  4. 4.Preside at all membership and special meetings.

  5. 5.Set dates for membership, special, and executive committee meetings.

  6. 6.Appoint committee members on a voluntary basis, except Nominating Committee.

  7. 7.Appoint members to fill elected officer positions if there are three months or less remaining on present term when the elected officer is unable to complete the current term. A special meeting will be scheduled for a temporary election for the vacant position when more than three months are remaining on their term.

  8. 8.Appoint points of contact (POCs).

  9. 9.Act as GKMC spokesperson.

  10. 10.Chair Executive Committee.

  11. 11.Authorize expenditures, not to exceed $200 per purchase, between scheduled meetings of the membership, with concurrence of the Treasurer.

  12. 12.Establish Special committees and appoint committee chairpersons as required.

  13. 13.Distribute a tentative agenda for the next membership meeting.

  14. 14.Appoint officers to the following non-elected positions as he/she sees fit.


  1. a.MENTOR(S)

    1. 1.Will observe and assist New Rider Members.

    2. 2.A mentor is defined as “a trusted counselor or guide.” Mentoring, therefore, is a relationship in which a person with greater experience and wisdom guides another person”.

    3. 3.The mentor will use available training and promotional resources to encourage safe responsible riding techniques and skills.

  2. b.HISTORIAN (Maintains documentation of GKMC history)

  3. 1.Responsible for collecting, categorizing, and preserving all material related to the club

  4. 2.Preserve and protect original artifacts to the best of their ability.

  5. 3.Make copies of all original information, pictures, and articles to be kept in a separate location in the event the originals are lost.

  6. c.WEBMASTER

  7. 1.Maintains the GKMC web site and ensures all information on the site is current.

  8. d.PHOTOGRAPHER (Photographs GKMC events and members participating in/at events).


VICE PRESIDENT

The duties are as follows:

  1. 1.Assume duties of the President in his/her absence.

  2. 2.Appoints Nominating Committee members.

  3. 3.Serve as member of Executive Committee.


SERGEANT-AT-ARMS

This position is equivalent to the United States Air Force First Sergeant position.
The duties are as follows:

  1. 1.Enforce all the rules within the by-laws and ensure club members arrive on time to club events and meetings.

  2. 2.Empowered to question a rider’s actions that may be unbecoming.

  3. 3.Contact other motorcycle organizations to coordinate joint rides with the Presidents’ approval.


SECRETARY

The duties are as follows:

  1. 1.Record the minutes of membership meetings and take attendance.

  2. 2.Distribute meeting minutes within 3 calendar days (via e-mail if capability exists) and/or submit meeting minutes to webmaster for posting.

  3. 3.Maintain a completed file of GKMC correspondence.

  4. 4.Issue annual election ballots.

  5. 5.Serve as member of the Executive Committee.

  6. 6.Provide other administrative support required by the GKMC.

  7. 7.Attest to the authentication of documents and any other actions by the President in the name of the GKMC.

  8. 8.Maintain an GKMC e-mail folder (if capability exists).


TREASURER

The duties are as follows:

  1. 1.Collect and receipt for membership fees.

  2. 2.Collect and maintain sponsorship and fundraising monies.

  3. 3.Issue and accept membership applications/resignations.

  4. 4.Maintain POC roster and make available to the GKMC (via e-mail if capability exists).

  5. 5.Maintain GKMC checking account(s).

  6. 6.Maintain membership roster and make available to the GKMC.

  7. 7.Read monthly financial report at each membership meeting.

  8. 8.Provide financial report to the GKMC (via e-mail if capability exists).

  9. 9.Serve as member of the Executive Committee..


SAFETY DIRECTOR

The duties are as follows:

  1. 1.Ensure all members ride and conduct themselves in a proper and safe manner.

  2. 2.Enforce the safety policies of the club through the Sergeant-At-Arms.

  3. 3.Give a monthly safety tip to the club members and brief riders before any club sanctioned event or ride.


RIDE DIRECTOR

The duties are as follows:

  1. 1.Create rides appropriate to all motorcycle types (cruiser, sport, standard, touring, etc.)

  2. 2.Research and advertise rides sponsored by other organizations that are consistent with the charter and by-laws of the GKMC and will not be a threat to the image or safety of the members of the GKMC.

  3. 3.Consult with the Safety Director and the Sergeant-At-Arms when creating and coordinating rides.


ROAD CAPTAINS

The duties are as follows:

  1. 1.Lead the GKMC in formation riding or parades. The Road Captains will give riding instructions to all riders prior to the start of a ride.

  2. 2.Enforce all rules of group riding.

  3. 3.Road Captains shall have the unchallenged right to terminate a member’s participation in a given ride if he/she feels that member is putting the GKMC’s safety or image at risk. Upon request of a Road Captain, the President may suspend the member pending the lodging of an official complaint. All members have the right to appeal before the members and will abide by the decision of the members--majority rules.

  4. 4.One Road Captain will always ride point and set the pace. Another Road Captain will always ride drag to assure the safety of the GKMC from behind and assist members with mechanical problems.


SECTION C:

MEMBER DUTIES AND LAWS

  1. 1.Members will above all, uphold the basic club principles of charity, honor, truth, respect, support, loyalty and commitment. Any member wishing to join the GKMC must abide by, embrace, and practice these principles, particularly when involved with club or inter-club business. Failure could result in dismissal or suspension.

  2. 2.When representing the club on and off the installation, all members will conduct themselves with the highest regard of the club principles. The club must not be tarnished by unrestrained behavior, disrespect of fellow citizens, or acts that generally reflect poorly on the clubs’ image and reputation.

  3. 3.Members will not endanger the Club or any member by participating in any illegal act or acts. If a member is arrested for illegal activities they will be automatically suspended from club activities and if found guilty of the offense(s) they will be dismissed.

  4. 4.Each member serves as a safety officer. Each member is responsible to identify and correct any condition that threatens the welfare of club members or the general public. Any willful act of unsafe riding witnessed by a fellow club member(s) could result in denial of membership. Members may plead their case at the next meeting.

  5. 5.Activities will be conducted to encourage participation by all club members and no laws will be enacted which favor or separate members by the type of motorcycle they ride.

  6. 6.It is the intent of this club to have all members own and ride a motorcycle to remain a member. If a members’ motorcycle is given up or removed from their possession, a grace period of four months will be granted before membership is revoked. The member may petition for an extension of their membership to the Executive Board at the meeting on the last month of their grace period.

  7. 7.No member will ride under an impaired physical condition. It is the member’s responsibility to maintain themselves within legal limits imposed by the state in which they are operating their motorcycle, the Department of Defense, the United States Air Force, and Whiteman AFB. Every member will make every effort to prevent another member from riding in an impaired condition.

  8. 8.Members will always hold the club in the highest regard. A member will never angrily accost, assault, or slander any other fellow club member.

  9. 9.Any member that endangers the club, other riders, civilians, or another club by riding in an unsafe manner will be automatically dismissed from the club. At the next GKMC meeting, the individual may plead their case before the main body.

  10. 10.If any member asks for assistance, every member is expected to do everything within their power to provide aid.

  11. 11.Members will do their best to protect all members of this club. If a member provokes an incident, members will do their best to resolve the matter in a peaceful manner and deal with the offending member as quickly as possible. The Sergeant-At-Arms will perform a full investigation and determine if the member will be terminated from the club, sanctions placed upon, or absolved of blame.

  12. 12.Members will embrace and encourage an atmosphere of skill improvement, responsible riding, and riding enjoyment and discourage aggressive, competitive, and potentially self destructive riding behaviors.


SECTION D: (Elections, Voting, and Officer Removal)

ELECTIONS

Election of GKMC officers shall be done annually during the January general membership meeting. The GKMC Vice President, at the August membership meeting, will appoint a Nominating Committee consisting of at least three members. The committee will deliver to the September regular membership meeting a “Candidate Affidavit of Eligibility and Solicitation of Office” proposal. Members seeking to serve as officers of the GKMC will have until the October regular membership meeting to return to the Nomination Committee a completed affidavit. The committee will submit a slate of candidates and accept nominations from the floor at the November membership meeting. Floor nominations will not be accepted unless the candidate is present and verbally accepts, or has provided an affidavit to the Nomination Committee. Nominees must have enough retainability to complete the term for which they are being nominated. If a member of the Nominating Committee becomes a candidate, that member shall be removed from the committee and a new member shall be appointed.

VOTING

Voting for the election of officers will be by secret ballot. Voting on all other GKMC business will be by a show of hands with the majority ruling, or as stated below. Ballots for the annual election will be provided to all members in good standing. Any member with outstanding dues may obtain a ballot prior to the election by paying their outstanding dues. For those active members unable to attend the January general membership meeting, absentee ballots may be obtained from the GKMC secretary. Members of the nominating committee will tabulate ballots. The candidate for each position with the most votes wins.

OFFICER REMOVAL

GKMC officers may be removed from office for cause with due process, as necessary, by request of the two-thirds of the active membership in the form of a signed petition.

ARTICLE II
Colors

COLORS

  1. 1.Colors are the property of the GKMC.

  2. 2.Trademark use has been granted to the GKMC and its members by its owner, Mr. Adam F. Buehler.

  3. 3.Colors will be available for purchase by and for the GKMC members.

  4. 4.Non-members do not have the permission to wear Colors unless the GKMC has given exclusive permission and is willing to take responsibility for the member.

  5. 5.Active members are highly encouraged to wear their Colors to all GKMC events, rides, and meetings.

  6. 6.If a member is officially representing the club, THEY WILL BE REQUIRED TO WEAR THEIR COLORS.

  7. 7.The Colors will be worn on the back of the outer most garment, and NOT displayed on the front. The front area is encouraged to display individual patches.

  8. 8.The governing body will wear Green Arm ropes. The only exception is for the Sergeant-At-Arms who will wear red, and the founding fathers who will wear silver.

  9. 9.Tassels on the side of jackets and/or vests can be decorated with beads. Member must coordinate with the governing body if they wish to wear them. The Sergeant-At-Arms will hold members that do not follow the set standards on the wearing of the beads for punishment.

  10. 10.Additional patches may be purchased by members (in good standing) thru the Green Knights Motorcycle Club.


ARTICLE II
Meetings of the GKMC

SECTION A: (General Membership Meeting) Shall be held once a year, in January, for the purpose of electing new officers, disseminating other business, and inviting new riders to join. To convene a general membership meeting, a quorum of one-fourth (1/4) or more of the active membership is necessary. Motions/solutions and revisions/amendments will carry a simple majority of positive votes except when the issue involves a request for complete written financial reports. In this exceptional case, a two-thirds (2/3) majority of positive votes is required.

SECTION B: (Regular Membership Meeting) Shall be held once a month as so stated in the by-laws for the purpose of conducting business that may be brought before the GKMC, listening to guest speakers, etc. To convene a regular membership meeting, a quorum of 25 percent or more of the active membership is necessary. Motions/resolutions and revisions/amendments will carry a simple majority of positive votes except when the issue involves a request for complete written financial reports. In this exceptional case, a two-thirds (2/3) majority of positive votes is required.

ARTICLE III
Revisions, Adoptions, Amendments, and Review

SECTION A: (Revisions/Adoptions) The adoption and or revision of this charter and associated by-laws require the approval of a majority of positive votes of the active members present at any meeting, provided a two-week oral or written notice is given the GKMC. Any revision to this charter and associated by-laws will not conflict with any installation or higher headquarters directives. This charter and associated by-laws will not take effect until reviewed by the first acting and or subsequent elected positions of the President, Vice President, Sergeant-At-Arms, Secretary, and Treasurer.

SECTION B: (Amendments) This charter and associated by-laws may be amended or abolished in whole or in part by a two-thirds (2/3) majority of positive votes of the active members present at any meeting, provided a two-week oral or written notice is given to the GKMC. Any amendments to this charter and associated by-laws will not conflict with any installation or higher headquarters directives. This charter and associated by-laws shall be automatically amended to conform with all directives from the installation or higher headquarters without submission to the GKMC. All amendments will not take effect until reviewed by the first acting and/or subsequent elected positions of the President, Vice President, Sergeant-At-Arms, Secretary, and Treasurer.

SECTION C: (Review) An appointed Parliamentarian Committee shall review this charter and associated by-laws annually to ensure completeness, applicability, and compliance with current Air Force directives, and policies.

ARTICLE IV
Dissolution

The GKMC may be dissolved by request of two-thirds (2/3) or more of the active membership in the form of a signed petition. Upon dissolution, all GKMC funds and properties, in excess of liabilities and expenses of dissolution, shall be donated to any military/civilian organization as decided on by a simple majority of positive votes of the active members present.

COPYRIGHT / TRADEMARK STATEMENT

The names, “Green Knights Riders Association, Chapter 11,” “Green Knights Motorcycle Club, Chapter 11 ” and “GKMC” and logos are the sole property of the "Green Knights Riders Association, Chapter 11" and may not be changed, duplicated, reproduced or copied without the express written consent of the GKMC Executive Committee.

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