Thursday, October 13, 2005
Jay Neff
My name is Jay Neff and I am running for a seat on the NBUA Board of Directors .
Why am I running? I am afraid that there are those on the board running to be elected again that have lost their way, lost their focus. They are operating as if NBUA revolves around them. It doesn't.
The backbone of NBUA is our great umpires. We go out and umpire the games day after day, week after week with one thing in mind--to conduct ourselves with honesty and integrity so the participants will know they have a fair opportunity to win the game. We don't want to be noticed. We understand the fans are not watching us. We are just there to do our part with honor.
What has happened with our current board? If someone has acted improperly, why is it taking so long to resolve? Why is the treasurer accused of misconduct for doing his job?
I served on the NBUA Board for 13 months. I know what goes on in these meetings. I served with three of the board members who are asking for your vote today. I was a participant in the meetings with Gavin, Scott and Gary. They are all good people. However, I think they have lost their way.
What did I help accomplish when I was on the Board ?
- I started the Liaison program that has enhanced communication with our customers. Every league has one point of contact in addition to Leslie if they have a concern.
- I worked with Rich Connors and Joe Whitefield on the committee that imposed accounting safeguards.
- I voted to invest NBUA funds to develop our web-based assigning program.
- When I first came on the board in 2003, members were not getting paid on time. We had huge problems with our accounting records. The board worked together to fix the problems and communicated honestly with the membership about reasonable timelines to expect results.
Why do I deserve your vote ?
- I served 24 years in the United States Coast Guard. 12 of those years were in leadership positions as a Chief Petty Officer. The hallmark of my success was inspiring my men to work together and to do that I had to communicate honestly .
- I have 13 months experience as an NBUA Director. My eyes are wide open. I know what to expect.
- I understand whose interests I will be representing as a Director. I won't be using my office to gain better games for myself. I will be working for YOU!
When we are working on the field, our job is to maintain order. I manage to do that without raising my voice very often. I rarely have to resort to ejecting people. I have people skills.
I also love this association. I love the great umpires I have had the pleasure of working with over the past nine years. I know I can make a difference representing YOUR interests as a Director. I will be a part of the solution! I will help get NBUA back on course.
I would like your vote.