BY-LAWS

OF

Montgomery County, Maryland Firefighters

Pipes and Drums Band, Inc.

ARTICLE I - ORGANIZATION

1. The name of this organization shall be Montgomery County, Maryland Firefighters Pipes & Drums, Inc.

2. The organization shall have a seal which shall be in the following form:

3. The organization may at its pleasure by a vote of three fourths of the member¬ship body change its name.

ARTICLE II - NAME, PURPOSE AND STATUS

A. Name. This organization shall be known as MONTGOMERY COUNTY, MARYLAND FIREFIGHTERS PIPES & DRUMS, INC. The name of this organization, or any part thereof, or derivative there from, may be employed only in connection with the official activities of this organization. This name shall be used when conducting all official business with the any local, state, or federal entities. The MONTGOMERY COUNTY, MARYLAND FIREFIGHTERS PIPES & DRUMS, INC. may be referred to in the following bylaws as the unit, the corporation, or the band interchangeably. For the purposes of advertising, merchandise, and general reference, the band shall be known as the MONTGOMERY COUNTY FIREFIGHTERS PIPES AND DRUMS (MCFFP&D).

B. Purpose. The Montgomery County Firefighters Pipes & Drums is a non-stock membership corporation organized under the laws of Maryland and the Corporations and Associations Article of the Code of Maryland. It is committed to three primary purposes:

1. To preserve and to perpetuate the Fire Service Scottish and Irish heritage both within the county and away.
2. To preserve and promote the traditional music of the Scottish highland pipes and drums.
3. To promote excellence of performance in piping and drumming, both in its appearance as a band and in the playing of individual members.

In all other purposes and respects, it is organized to carry out any other lawful purpose permitted under Maryland law for a non-stock membership corporation.

C. Status. The MONTGOMERY COUNTY, MARYLAND FIREFIGHTERS PIPES & DRUMS INC. is a Non-Profit Organization in accordance with Local, State and Federal Law.

D. Discrimination. The MONTGOMERY COUNTY, MARYLAND FIREFIGHTERS PIPES AND DRUMS, INC. will not discriminate on the basis of race, gender, religion, disability, or affiliation.

ARTICLE III - MEMBERSHIP

A. Eligibility for Membership

A(1). Eligibility for Charter Member, Active Member, or Student Member. To be a charter, active, or student member of this corporation, the member must currently be, or have retired as, a Montgomery County Police Officer, Sheriff’s Deputy, Firefighter or EMT, Rockville City Police Officer, City of Takoma Park Police Officer, Gaithersburg City Police Officer, or a Maryland State Trooper or Maryland National Capitol Area Park Police Officer that routinely serves within Montgomery County.  All active or retired Firefighters or EMT’s must fall within the guidelines of the IECS system posted by the MCFRS Fire Chief. All members must be in good standing within their respective department, or, if retired, must have been in good standing within their respective department at the time of his/her retirement. All current Career and Volunteer Fire and Rescue personnel, as well as Career retirees and Volunteers drawing LOSAP benefits, will be considered candidates for these classes of membership. Any member transferring from one category to another must be in good standing with all financial obligations to the band.  The minimum age for membership as an active member, student, or booster shall be 16 years of age.

• All members under the age of 18 will be restricted from, while representing the band, any event that will involve the sale of and/or consumption of alcoholic beverages. This is unless the member is accompanied and supervised by his/her parent or legal guardian.
• All members between the ages of 18 and 20 are expected to obey the applicable laws related to the legal drinking age while representing the band or attending band related events.
• The MCFFP&D band does not condone nor will the band tolerate the under-aged consumption of alcoholic beverages.  Any member that violates this part of the by-laws shall be disciplined per the discretion of the Board of Directors. This section also applies to any member who supplies alcohol to a minor.

A(2).  Eligibility for Booster Member, Honorary Member, or Instructional Member. To be a booster member, honorary member, or instructional member, one does not need to meet the requirements of A(1) above, and need only meet those requirements set forth specifically in the definition of the specific class of member in section B below.

A(3).  Eligibility for Life Members and Inactive Members.To be a life member or inactive member as defined below in section B, the member must have immediately previous been an active member.

A(4). Eligibility for Family Members.  An immediate family member related to any current charter, active, student, or booster member shall be eligible for membership under any of the aforementioned categories. For purposes of this section, an immediate family member shall be defined as a member’s parent, step-parent, spouse’s parent, spouse, brother, sister, child, step-child, member’s grandparent, spouse’s grandparent, or legal guardian.

A(5). Eligibility for Associate Student Members.  A firefighter or law enforcement officer who serves with an Agency or Department in the State of Maryland, but not in Montgomery County, shall be eligible for Associate Student Membership. Any person meeting this requirement who wishes to join the band must provide:

A written recommendation from a Chief or Officer from their Department, stating whether the applicant is in good standing with their Department.

1. Two professional references that can be contacted to verify the applicant’s character.

A(6). Eligibility for Associate Probationary Members.  Any Associate Student Member that is granted permission, from the Pipe Major or Drum Sergeant, to perform actively in the band and is in good standing is eligible to transition to Associate Probationary Membership status.

A(7). Eligibility for Associate Members.  Any Associate Probationary Member that has reached their one-year benchmark and wishes to perform with the band, but is not seeking Active Membership, shall be eligible to transition to Associate Membership status.

A(8). Eligibility for Non-Public Safety Associate Member.  Any person not affiliated with the fire/rescue service or law enforcement shall be eligible for NPS Associate membership. Any person who wishes to join the band under this category must provide two professional references that can be contacted to verify the applicant’s character.

B. Classes of membership

There shall be Thirteen classes of membership in MCFFP&D: Charter member, Active member, Student member, Booster member, Honorary member, Life member, Inactive member, Instructional member, Active Non-Local member, Associate Student member, Associate Probationary member, Associate member, and Non-Public Safety (NPS) Associate member.

B(1). Charter Member: A Member whose name appears on the membership rolls of the organization prior to January 1, 2006 shall be a charter member. A charter member will have voting rights until December 31, 2005. After December 31, 2005, only those members meeting the requirements for active membership will have voting privileges. All charter members still on the membership rolls as of December 31, 2005 will automatically become active members at the close of business on December 31, 2005 and will retain their identity as charter members as well for as long as they remain active members.

B(2). Active Member:  All active members must:

1. Comply with the eligibility requirement set forth in Article III(A)(1) above on eligibility, and
2. Be a performing member of the band. Performing members of the band can include those students who have been approved to participate at band level or higher as well as drum majors, and
3. Unless transferring into active member status from another membership class, obtain written sponsorship of two active or charter members of the band, and
4. Receive two thirds vote of the active members present at a members meeting, said vote which can include sealed proxy votes of active members.

Only active members have voting privileges after January 1, 2006. Candidates for active membership transferring from another membership class do not have to pay a second or additional application fee. All members must meet responsibilities as states in Article III(C).

B(3). Student Member:  All student members must:

1. Desire to learn either the pipes or the drums, and
2. Aspire to be a performing member of the band, and
3. Receive written sponsorship of at least two active or charter members of the band, and the sponsoring active or charter member must play the instrument that the student member intends to play and,
4. Be interviewed by the Board of Directors or their designee and receive the recommendations of the Board of Directors to the active membership, and
5. Receive two thirds vote of the active members present at a members meeting, said vote which can include sealed proxy votes of active members, and
6. Comply with the eligibility requirements set forth in Article III(A)(1).

To maintain student membership, student members must follow through with their training as specified by the pipe major and/or drum sergeant or their designees. The pipe major or drum sergeant may recommend the student member for removal from the band at any time for failure to follow through with appropriate training, or inability to progress. Expulsion from the band will be in accordance with Article III(F). In addition to lessons, student members are expected to participate in fundraising efforts and assist the performing band with performances and practices as deemed necessary. Student members do not have voting privileges, but are expected to attend membership meetings. All members must meet responsibilities as states in Article III(C).

B(4). Booster Member: All booster members must:

1.     Comply with the eligibility requirements set forth in Article III(A)(2), and

2.     Obtain written sponsorship of at least two active or charter members of the band, and

3.     Be interviewed by the executive committee and receive the executive committee’s recommendation to the active membership, and

4.   Receive two thirds vote of the active members present at a members meeting, said vote which can include sealed proxy votes of active members.

It is the intent of the organization that Booster membership status should be reserved for individuals who have a desire to contribute to the organization, but do not wish to be a performing member. Provided that equipment and funds are available, Booster members will be eligible for band furnished equipment and travel funds as determined within the discretion of the Board of Directors. Booster members do not have voting rights, with the exception of the Booster Member Coordinator stated in Article IV(B)(5).

B(5). Honorary Members:  All honorary members must:

1.     Comply with the eligibility requirements set forth in Article III(A)(2), and

2.     Obtain written sponsorship of at least two active or charter members of the band, and

3.     Receive the recommendations of the Board of Directors to the active membership, and

4.     Receive two thirds vote of the active members present at a members meeting, said vote which can include sealed proxy votes of active members.

It is the intent of the organization that Honorary members have no formal responsibilities and is reserved for those individuals whom the organization feels has merited formal recognition of affiliation with the organization.  Honorary members will not have voting rights and honorary members are exempt from responsibilities of membership under Article III(C)

B(6). Instructional Member: All instructional members shall:

1. Comply with the eligibility requirements set forth in Article III(A)(2), and
2. Obtain written sponsorship of at least two active or charter members of the band, and
3. Be interviewed by the Board of Directors or their designee and receive the recommendation of the Board of Directors to the active membership, and
4. Receive two thirds vote of the active members present at a members meeting, said vote which can include sealed proxy votes of active members.

          Instructional members do not have voting rights.  Instructional members teach other members in pipes, drums, marching and can participate in performances and wear the same uniform as band members.

B(7). Life Member:  A life member must have been a member who has completed a total (not necessarily continuous) of ten years of membership, other than inactive.

B(8). Inactive Member:  All inactive members must:

1.     Any member requesting inactive status must apply in writing to the Board of Directors, and

2.     Have all outstanding debts resolved, and

3.     Must receive approval from the Board of Directors, and

4.     Be limited to a period of time not exceed one year, and

5.     Be responsible for annual dues as stated in Article XI, and

6.     Upon written request to the Board of Directors, to be re-instated as an active member, resolve any outstanding debt, or

7.     At the conclusion of (1) year from the date of attaining inactive status, if no communications are received by the Board of Directors, be removed from the membership roster of the MCFF P&D.

B(9). Inactive Member:  A member who lives 60 or more miles from the seat of Rockville (101 Monroe St.) and shall:

1. Comply with the eligibility requirements set forth in Article III (A)(1) including the continued annual dues requirement (current active member rate) and;
2. Must be an active member in good standing prior to requesting a transfer to this status.
3. Must request the status transfer in writing to any member of the BOD.
4. Must maintain minimum status requirements which take effect in July, 2012.

a. Must be present for (2) band practices annually unless excused by a member of the BOD.
b. Must perform at (2) band-sanctioned events annually (excluding Ocean City).
c. Must attend (1) quarterly meeting per year (preferably the Annual meeting in January).
d. Remain proficient with the music selections designated by the Pipe Major and/or Drum Sergeant

B(10). Associate Student Member: Any member who is a firefighter or law enforcement officer with an agency or department in the State of Maryland, but not Montgomery County shall:

1. Comply with the eligibility requirements set forth in Article III (A)(5) including the continued annual dues requirement (current active member rate) set forth in Article XI – Dues and;
2. Desire to learn either the pipes or drums, and
3. Aspire to be a performing member of the band, and
4. Receive written sponsorship of at least two active or charter members of the band, who play the respective instrument, and
5. Be interviewed by the Board of Directors or their designee, receive a recommendation from the BOD to the active membership, and
6. Receive two-thirds vote from the active members at a membership meeting.  The vote can include, but is not limited to, a sealed proxy vote.

To maintain Associate Student membership, Associate Student members must follow through with their instruction as determined by the Pipe Major, Drum Sergeant, or their designee. The Pipe Major or Drum Sergeant may recommend the Associate Student member for removal from the band at any time for failing to comply with their prescribed instruction or for lack of progress. Expulsion from the band will be in accordance with Article III(F). In addition to lessons, Associate Student members are expected to participate in fundraising efforts and assist performing members at performances or practices as needed. Associate Student members do not have voting privileges, but are expected to attend membership meetings. All members must maintain eligibility requirements as listed in Article III(C).

B(11). Associate Probationary Member: An Associate Student member who has achieved the requirements for Active membership status, will be, at the discretion of the Pipe Major or Drum Sergeant, granted Associate Probationary membership status for one year. Upon successful completion of the one year probationary period, the Associate Probationary member will become eligible for Active Member status as set forth in Article III (B)(2). In addition to lessons, Associate Probationary members are expected to participate in fundraising efforts and assist performing members at events or practices as required. The Pipe Major or Drum Sergeant reserve the right to recommend the Associate Probationary member for removal from the band for failing to comply with these requirements. Expulsion from the band will be in accordance with Article III(F). Associate Probationary members do not have voting privileges, but are expected to attend membership meetings. All members must maintain eligibility requirements as listed in Article III(C).

B(12). Associate Member: A member who seeks to perform with the band, but does not seek to achieve Active member status, shall:

1. Comply with the eligibility requirements set forth in Article III (A)(1) including the continued annual dues requirement (current active member rate) set forth in Article XI – Dues and;
2. Must be an Associate Probationary member for one year, in good standing to apply for this status, and;
3. Must put their transfer request in writing to any member of the BOD, and;
4. Will only be permitted to perform at events that are pre-approved by either the Pipe Major or Drum Sergeant.
5. Associate members are expected to participate in fundraising efforts and assist performing members at events or practices as required.  Associate members do not have voting privileges, but are expected to attend membership meetings.  All members must maintain eligibility requirements as listed in Article III(C).

B(13). Non-Public Safety (NPS) Associate Member: Persons not meeting eligibility requirements set forth in Article III A(1), specifically regarding affiliation with a Public Safety Agency. If a person in this position seeks to become a performing member of our band, then they shall be permitted to apply for membership under this category.

1. Any person applying for membership under this category shall provide two professional references who can be contacted to verify the applicant’s character.
2. At no time shall NPS Associate members comprise greater than 20% of the total voting Active membership of our band.
3. NPS Associate members shall not have voting privileges.
4. NPS Associate members will remain proficient with the music selections as designated by the Pipe Major or Drum Sergeant.
5. The Pipe Major or Drum Sergeant reserve the right to recommend the NPS Associate member for removal from the band for failing to comply with any requirements set forth in these by-laws.  Expulsion from the band will be in accordance with Article III(F).
6. NPS Associate members will be required to attend band practices, meetings, functions, and performances as outlined by the Pipe Major or Drum Sergeant, and;
7. Maintain band equipment, instruments, bagpipes, and drums in good condition and proper tune, and;
8. Strive to perform at the highest level of their individual abilities.  Conduct themselves in a responsible and mature manner while representing the band, and;
9. Pay all membership dues, instructional fees, and/or other accrued debts within (30) days of receipt, as outlined in Article XI – dues.
10. NPS Associate members who are unable to attend a band performance or rehearsal, as expected to notify the Pipe Major or Drum Sergeant as soon as practical.

C. Responsibilities of membership

Charter members, active members, and student members must:

1.     Attend Band practices, meetings, functions, and performances on a regular basis, and

2.     Maintain uniforms, band equipment, instruments, pipes, and drums in good condition and repair, and in proper tune, and

3.     Strive to perform at the highest level of their abilities and conduct themselves publicly in a manner that positively reflects upon the Band and organization and its stated purposes, and

4.     Pay all membership dues in accordance to Article XI- Dues, and

5.     Pay all instructional fees and/or other debts as assigned by the Band by 30 days of receipt of debt, and

6.     Members who are unable to attend a band performance or rehearsal are expected to notify the Pipe Major, Drum Sergeant, or his/her designee as soon as is practical.

D. Resignation of membership status

Any member desiring to resign shall submit his resignation in writing to the Recording Secretary who shall then present it to the Board of Directors for action. Any member may at any time resign their membership provided all band properties are returned and outstanding accounts settled according to Article XI.

E. Individual member suspension

A member whose conduct is considered detrimental to the interests of the band may be brought before the Board of Directors for investigation and review. The Board of Directors will make a report to the active membership at the next active members meeting after the investigation and report is completed. Any member, whose conduct is under investigation, may be placed under suspension by the Board of Directors until such report is presented to the active membership. The active members at said meeting shall vote by a two thirds vote of members present (which can include sealed proxy votes) to approve, reject, or modify the report of the Board of Directors to suspend the member. Any complaint arising out of conduct believed to be detrimental to the interests of the band shall be received by any member of the Board of Directors no later than (1) year after the alleged event occurred. Complaints shall not be arbitrary or capricious in nature. A suspension may not exceed one year and any vote to extend a suspension beyond one year shall be considered as an expulsion under Section 3(F) below. A suspended member has no voting rights.

F. Individual member expulsion

A member whose conduct is considered detrimental to the interests of the band may be brought before the Board of Directors for review. The Board of Directors will issue a report to the active members for consideration at the next active members meeting.  Grounds for expulsion shall include, but are not limited to:

1.     Conduct of a member detrimental to the interest of the band.

2.     Failure to pay membership fees within 120 days of when membership fees are due.

3.     Failure to maintain band equipment, instruments, or uniforms in good condition after having been requested to return them.

4.     Failure to follow any reasonable rules or regulations promulgated by the Board of Directors and approved by a two thirds vote of active members at a regular active members meeting.

The active members at said meeting shall vote by a two thirds vote of members present (which can include sealed proxy votes) to approve, reject, or modify the report of the Executive Committee to expel the member.

Expelled members shall return all band property and equipment to the possession of the organization and settle any outstanding accounts.

ARTICLE IV - OFFICERS

A. Elected Officers

The officers of the organization shall be as follows:

President

Vice President

Secretary

Treasurer

Quartermaster

Piper Major

Drum Sergeant

A(1). President

The president shall preside at all membership meetings, by virtue of the office be chairperson of the Board of Directors, present at each annual meeting of the organization an annual report of the work of the organization, appoint all committees, temporary or permanent, see that all books, reports and certificates as required by law are properly kept or filed, be one of the officers who may sign the checks or drafts of the organization, and have such powers as may be reasonably construed as belonging to the chief executive of any organization.

A(2). Vice President

The vice president shall in the event of the absence or inability of the president to exercise his or her office become acting president of the organization with all the rights, privileges and powers as if he or she had been the duly elected president.

A(3). Secretary

The secretary shall keep the minutes and records of the or¬ganization in appropriate books, file any certificate required by any statute, federal or state, give and serve all notices to mem¬bers of the organization, be the official custodian of the records and seal of the organization, be one of the officers required to sign the checks and drafts of the organization, present to the mem¬bership at any meetings any communication addressed to the secretary of the organization, submit to the Board of Directors any communications which shall be addressed to the secretary of the organization, attend to all correspondence of the organization and exercise all duties incident to the office of secretary.

A(4). Treasurer

The Treasurer shall have the care and custody of all monies belonging to the organization, be solely responsible for such monies or securities of the organization and be one of the officers who shall sign checks or drafts of the organization. No special fund may be set aside that shall make it unnecessary for the Treasurer to sign the checks issued upon it.

The Treasurer shall render at stated periods as the Board of Directors shall determine a written account of the finances of the organization and such report shall be physically affixed to the minutes of the Board of Directors of such meeting and shall exercise all duties incident to the office of Treasurer.

It shall be the responsibility of the Treasurer to notify the membership of outstanding dues via electronic mail or standard mail. Any member may at anytime review their account by requesting an invoice from the Treasurer.

A(5). Quartermaster

The quartermaster shall be responsible for procurement, maintenance and accounting of all band property. He shall ensure the return, repair, or replacement of property.

A(6). Pipe Major

The Pipe Major must be a playing member of the pipe section and must demonstrate good character, musicianship and leadership ability, and promote the musical growth of the band as a whole.  The powers and duties of the Pipe Major shall include:

1.     To lead the band in the field in the absence of the Drum Major.

2.     To assure that the Pipe Major or an appointed assistant is present at each band practice and performance.

3.     To be responsible for the selection of tunes and sets from the effective repertoire.  Also to be responsible for the selection of marching routines in cooperation with the Drum Major and Drum Sergeant.

4.     To require reasonable competence of execution of the effective repertoire.

5.     To have the authority to disqualify any member of the pipe section from a particular engagement because of absenteeism from meetings, inadequacy of performance, or unfamiliarity with the pertinent repertoire.

6.     To judge whether a member’s instrument is sufficiently well maintained and tuned for him/her to participate in a band rehearsal or performance.

7.     To designate particular settings of each tune that the band is to perform and to require adherence to those settings.

8.     To devise a reasonable timetable for the acquisition of new tunes by band members.

9.     To devise and conduct a program of practice chanter and pipe instruction of effective repertoire tunes for band members at regular band practices, to respond to individual need, and at all times exercise the freedom to alter established routines to meet particular exigencies.

10. To be responsible for monitoring the progress of participants in the Band Training Program, both first hand as well as through master class instructors who shall be appointed by the Pipe Major.

11. To appoint an assistant to help in these duties, and to fill in for the Pipe Major when absent.

12. To work with the Drum Sergeant in a cooperative manner to accomplish the goals of the band.

13. To decide what performance format and music will be played at each performance

14. To decide which pipers and how many drummers will perform at each event, and if a Color Guard or Parade Rig will be necessary.

15. To set the example for the band.

16. To have final authority in all musical and performances matters with students and performing members of band.

A(7). Drum Sergeant

The Drum Sergeant must be a playing member of the drum section and must demonstrate good character, musicianship and leadership ability.  The powers and duties of the Drum Sergeant shall include:

1.     To select or compose drum settings appropriate to the tunes in each of the band’s three levels of performance.

2.     To provide the drum section with copies of settings required.

3.     To require reasonable competence of all rudiments used in band drum settings and to require demonstration of familiarity with all settings required for a given performance.

4.     To have the authority to disqualify any member of the drum section from a particular engagement because of absenteeism from meetings, inadequacy of performance, or unfamiliarity with the pertinent repertoire.

5.     To devise and conduct a program of drumming instruction of effective repertoire tunes for band members at regular band practices, to respond to individual need, and at all times exercise the freedom to alter established routines to meet particular exigencies.

6.     To follow the Pipe Major’s timetable for acquisition of new tunes and sets.

7.     To oversee, where practicable, the instruction of bass and tenor drummers.

8.     To consult with the Pipe Major regarding which, and how many, drummers will be employed in a given performance.

9.     To appoint an assistant to help with the outlined duties, and to fill for the Drum Sergeant when absent.

10. To work with the Pipe Major in a cooperative manner to accomplish the goals of the band.

11. To set the example for the Drum Section and the Band.

No person may occupy more than one Officer position at one time.

No Officer or Director shall for reason of the office be entitled to receive any salary or compensation.

B. Appointed Positions

The organization may also have appointed position as follows. Vacancies of these positions do not have to be filled. Additional appointed positions may be created and appointed by the Board of Directors as needs dictate. Any appointed position may be revoked, at any given time during the calendar year, by the authority responsible for appointing such position.

Drum Major

Pipe Sergeant(s)

Pipe Corporal(s)

Drum Corporal(s)

Band Manager

Booster Member Coordinator

B(1). Drum Major

The Drum Major will be appointed by the Board of Directors following recommendations made by the membership. Selection should follow some type of audition or qualifier. The Drum Major will be eligible for active membership. Individuals under consideration should demonstrate good character, exemplary military appearance, and leadership ability. In addition, candidates should have a general familiarity with the structure of pipe music, including the variety of meters, tempos and be familiar with the conventions of Scottish piping and drumming.

The duties of the Drum Major may include:

1.     To drill the band in conventional march steps and maneuvers.

2.     To help the Pipe Major and Drum Sergeant plan programs and to instruct the band in the execution of performing routines.

3.     To inspect performance areas and prepare the band for any obstacles to a smooth performance.

4.     To inspect uniforms and general appearance of band members, having the prerogative to disqualify any member from a particular engagement who fails to present a smart appearance.

5.     To lead the band on the march, consulting with the Pipe Major about musical selections and special issues, and dismissing the band.

6.     To maintain general order and decorum in the ranks.

7.     To set and regulate the March pace and tempo.

8.     To set the example for the band.

B(2). Pipe Sergeant(s)

The Pipe Sergeant is the primary assistant to the Pipe Major. The Pipe Sergeant(s) will be appointed by the Pipe Major. Not more than two Pipe Sergeant(s) will be appointed. Responsibilities of the Pipe Sergeant(s) include:

1. Set the example for the pipe section
2. Assist in the tuning of the pipe section.
3. Assist in the training of the pipe section, specifically those students not yet on the pipes.
4. Assist in the maintenance of the bagpipes.
5. Performs duties as directed by the pipe major.

B(3). Pipe Corporal(s)

The Pipe Major may appoint Pipe Corporals, not more than two. These appointments may be done as special recognition of ability or responsibility. Responsibilities of the Pipe Corporals will be designated by the Pipe Major.

B(4). Drum Corporal(s)

The Drum Sergeant may appoint Drum Corporals, not more than two. The Drum Corporals will assist the Drum Sergeant with his responsibilities to the band, and will lead the drum section in his absence. These appointments may be made as special recognition of ability or responsibility. Additional responsibilities of the Drum Corporal(S) will be designated by the Drum Sergeant.

B(5). Band Manager

The Band Manager is appointed by the Board of Directors. The Band Manager must be an Active or Booster member of the Band. The Band manager reports directly to the pipe major. Responsibilities of the Band Manager include:

1.     Plans and schedules all band events, commitments, and performances, with the approval of the Pipe Major

2.     Updates and maintains the band schedule, giving information to the Web Master or Secretary for posting.

3.     Acts as, or appoints individuals to act as Event Organizers to coordinate logistics for band missions and performances, and assist with event planning.

4.     Works with the Pipe Major to ensure execution of short-term activities as well as develop long-term plans, policies, and goals.

5.     Supervises publicity and public relations activities of the band, and ensures the Band’s activities are appropriately publicized.

6.     Writes, or coordinates the writing of, appropriate articles on the band for media or publicity.

7.     Arranges photo support/coverage of band activities, as appropriate.

8.     Maintains a positive liaison with local Public Service departments and societies, Celtic cultural and social organizations, pubs and restaurants, and pipe bands,

9.     Submits a quarterly written report to the Board of Directors outlining contacts made with the public and a list of all event requests accepted or denied.

B(6). Booster Member Coordinator

The Booster Member Coordinator will be appointed by the Board of Directors. The Booster Member Coordinator must be an active booster member within the band upon the time of appointment.   The Booster Member Coordinator will report directly to the Band Manager.  Responsibilities of the Booster Member Coordinator include:

1.     Works with the Band Mgr and/or D/M to coordinate parade banner carriers .

2.     Works with members of the Fundraising Committee, when appointed, to plan and assisted in operation of fundraising events.

3.     Works with the Band Manager to coordinate before and/or after performance venues with the appropriate contact person for such venues.

4.     Ensures the availability of water and/or refreshments at performances when required.

5.     Assists in the upkeep and supplies in the band trailer.

6.     Works with the Secretary in the delivery of flowers, sympathy cards, and other such correspondence as directed by the President.

7.     Works to actively recruit new Booster Members

The Booster Member Coordinator is the only booster member with voting privileges.

ARTICLE V - MEETINGS

Regular meetings of this organization will be held quarterly, or as deemed necessary.

Quarterly meetings will be held on the second Monday of January, April, July, and October.

Annual elections of the Board of Directors will be held at the January meeting.

Nominations for these positions will open at the October meeting.

The presence of not less than 25 percent of active members shall constitute a quorum and shall be necessary to conduct the business of this organization; but a lesser number may adjourn the meeting for a period of not more than four weeks from the date of the scheduled by these by-laws and the secretary shall cause a notice of this scheduled meetings to be sent to all those members who were not present at the meeting originally called. A quorum as hereinbefore set forth shall be required at any adjourned meeting.

 A. Types of Meetings

1. Regular: A periodic business meeting of the Montgomery County, Maryland Firefighters Pipes and Drums, Inc. held at their quarterly intervals.
2. Special: A separate business meeting of the Montgomery County, Maryland Firefighters Pipes and Drums, Inc. held at a different time than a regular quarterly scheduled meeting, convening only for the specific purpose noticed in the call to the meeting. Notice of such meeting shall be mailed or sent via electronic mail (email) to all members at their address or respective email address as they appear in the membership roll book at least five but not more 30 days before the scheduled date set for such special meeting. Such notice shall state the reasons that such meeting has been called, the business to be transacted at such meeting and whom called.

At the request of two or more of the Active Members of the organization, the

President shall call a special meeting, but such request must be made in writing at least 10 days before the requested scheduled date.

No other business but that specified in the notice may be transacted at such special meeting without the unanimous consent of all present at such meeting.

3. Annual: The January meeting of the Montgomery County, Maryland Firefighters Pipes and Drums, Inc. will be designated as the Annual Meeting. Its purpose will be to receive reports of officers and com­mittees, hold elections, take other actions prescribed in the bylaws, and all normal orders of business of a regular meeting.
4. Executive session: Any meeting or portion of a meeting of the Montgomery County, Maryland Firefighters Pipes and Drums, Inc. or the Montgomery County, Maryland Firefighters Pipes and Drums, Inc. Board of Directors in which proceedings are secret.

ARTICLE VI- BOD

The business of this organization shall be managed by a Board of Directors consisting of the seven officers of this organization.

The directors for the ensuing terms shall be elected by the membership at the

January meeting of the organization, and they shall serve for a term of two years.

Elections of officers will be staggered. In January of even years, elections will be held for the offices of President, Treasurer, and Pipe Major. In January of odd years, elections will be held for the offices of Vice President, Secretary, Quartermaster, and Drum Sergeant. All terms will last for two years.

The Board of Directors shall have the control and management of the affairs and business of this organization. Such Board of Directors shall only act in the name of the organization when it shall be regularly convened by its chairman after due notice to all the directors of such meeting.

Three of the members of the Board of Directors shall constitute a quorum and the meetings of the Board of Directors shall be held regularly on a quarterly basis at a time to be determined by a majority of the Board of Directors.

Each director shall have one vote and such voting may not be done by proxy.

The Board of Directors may make such rules and regulations covering its meetings as it may in its discretion determine necessary.

Vacancies in the Board of Directors shall be filled by a vote of the majority of the remaining members of the Board of Directors for the balance of the term.

The president of the organization by virtue of the office shall be chairperson of the Board of Directors. The Board of Directors shall select from one of their number a secretary of the Board of Directors.

A director may be removed when sufficient cause exists for such removal. The Board of Directors may entertain charges against any director. A director may be represented by counsel upon any removal hearing. The Board of Directors shall adopt such rules as it may in its discretion consider necessary for the best interests of the organization, for this hearing.

ARTICLE VII – COMMITTEES

All committees except the Executive Committee of this organization shall be appointed by the President and their term of office shall be for a period of one year or less if sooner terminated by the action of the President. The Executive Committee of this organization shall be appointed by a majority vote of the Board of Directors and shall consist of three members, only one of whom can be a member of the Board of Directors. The Executive Committee can receive such assignments and duties as set forth in these By-Laws and as given to it from time to time by either the majority vote of the Board of Directors or by the President.

(A)Ex officio:

A Latin phrase that means “by virtue of office.” The president may serve ex officio as a member of all committees except the nominating committee.

ARTICLE VIII – ORDER OF BUSINESS

1. ROLL CALL
2. READING OF THE MINUTES OF THE PREVIOUS MEETING
3. REPORTS OF THE COMMITTEE’S
4. REPORTS OF THE OFFICERS
5. REPORT OF THE BAND MANAGER
6. OLD AND UNFINISHED BUSINESS
7. NEW BUSINESS
8. GOOD AND WELFARE
9. ADJOURNMENTS

ARTICLE IX - VOTING

At all meetings, except for the election of officers, directors, and new members, all votes shall be viva voce, except that for election of officers ballots shall be provided and there shall not appear any place on such ballot any mark or marking that might tend to indicate the person who cast such ballot.

At any regular or special meeting, if a majority is required, any question may be voted upon in the manner and style provided for election of officers and directors.

At all votes by ballot the chairman of such meeting shall immediately prior to the commencement of balloting appoint a committee of three who shall act as “Inspectors of Election” and who shall at the conclusion of such balloting certify in writing to the chairperson the results and the certified copy shall be physically affixed in the minute book to the minutes of that meeting.

No “Inspector of Election” shall be a candidate for office or shall be personally interested in the question voted upon.

ARTICLE X - SALARIES

The Board of Directors shall hire and fix the compensation of any and all employees which they in their discretion may determine to be necessary in the conduct of the business of the organization. However, since the organization is a not for profit membership organization, it is the intent of the organization that salaries and compensation not be paid to any member, officer, or Board member, or any employee unless such compensation is approved by a two thirds vote of the active members at a regularly scheduled meeting of active members.

ARTICLE XI — DUES

A. Application fees-

An initial application fee of 50.00 is due upon receipt of application to be an Active, Student, or Booster member of the band. The application fee will be returned if membership is not granted within 90 days of acceptance of a completed application with written sponsorship letters. The application fee will meet the annual dues for the calendar year if they are accepted.

B. Membership (Annual) Dues-

On January 1 of each calendar year, all members (excluding Honorary and Instructional) shall pay a $50.00 dues payment. Booster members shall make a $25.00 dues payment.  These dues must be paid on or before the Annual Meeting. Disciplinary action will be taken if dues are not paid by the 2^nd Quarter Regular Meeting or 90 calendar days or whichever comes first. This grace period begins the day of the Annual Meeting.

B(1). Exemption-

          A DUE DATE exemption shall be offered to all members participating in the Montgomery County Employee Federal Credit Union (MCEFCU)/ MCFF Pipes and Drums payroll deduction program.  This exemption is as follows:

1.       The member must be enrolled prior to the annual meeting.

2.       The member shall notify the Office of the Treasurer via electronic mail (email) if they wish to be considered for an exemption.

3.       The member shall have a minimum payroll deducted equal to the annual dues or          annual dues plus their respective instructional dues.

4.       This minimum will be calculated by dividing the member’s total yearly dues by    the number of the member’s number of calendar year pay periods remaining for    the current year. 

An example of the exemption:

1.       Pipe Member “X” –

          -$50 annual dues

          -$420 annual instructional dues

                   -total $470

Member “X” works 26 pay periods in a calendar year.

$470 divided by 26 pay periods equals $18.08 deducted per pay period.

2.       Booster Member “Y” –

          -$25 annual dues

                   -total $25

Member “Y” works 26 pay periods in a calendar year.

$25 divided by 26 pay periods equals .91 cents per pay period (MCEFCU may have a minimum amount required to be deducted).

3.       Drummer Member “Z” –

          -$50 annual dues

          -$240 annual instructional dues

                   -total $290

Member “Z” works 26 pay periods in a calendar year.

$290 divided by 26 pay periods equals $11.16 deducted per pay period.

The above amounts will vary depending on when new members join the band.

The Office of the Treasury will be responsible for determining the exact cost per member.                

C. Instructional Dues-

The Board of Directors may, at any time during the calendar year, require both Student and Active members to pay instructional fees.  Should instructional fees be assessed, such fees will be divided equally amongst both Student and Active members.  Changes in the band roster may cause the amount of instructional fees to change, at any given time, throughout the calendar year. Any changes in the fees assessed by the instructor will be brought before the Board of Directors and a recommendation to the membership will be made at the next regular meeting. Instructional Dues will be assessed on a monthly basis and should be paid accordingly. Disciplinary action will be taken at the next regular meeting if dues are not paid within 90 calendar days of receipt.

Disputes in assessed dues must be in writing to the Treasurer and will come before the Board of Directors at the next Board meeting. All members are responsible for any dues assessed while their dispute is under review by the Board of Directors. It shall be the responsibility of the Treasurer to notify the member whose dispute is under review within 14 calendar days after the Board of Directors issue the ruling on their dispute.

ARTICLE XII - AMENDMENTS

These By-Laws may be altered, amended, repealed, or added to by an affirmative vote of not less than two thirds of active members. Notification of proposed changes to the bylaws must be submitted to the membership through the Secretary at least 30 days prior to a vote.