| 02-05-08 00:00 |
February 2008 Chapter Letter |
Chapter Letter
February 2008
National Council Meeting
Our Beta Pi Chapter at St. John’s University in Queens will be hosting our National Council Meeting on Saturday, 12 April 2008. Mark your calendars and start making arrangements now to be there.
Per Section IX, A. 1 of our Constitution, any proposed amendments to our Constitution and By-laws “must be submitted to Central Office 60 days prior to a National Council meeting and circulated by Central Office not later than 45-days prior.” That makes 12 February 2008 the deadline for submission to Central Office.
Elections will also be held at this time. Candidates for President and Executive Vice President must have their candidacy declared in person prior to the conclusion of the first session of the annual meeting of the National Council.
All National Officers and District Governors must submit their semi-annual reports to Central Office hopefully no later than 21 March 2008. This will enable adequate time to have the report included in the delegate packet.
If there are any questions please feel free to contact me at Central Office.
Expansion
Our Beta Lambda chapter at St. Francis University in Loretto PA has been reactivated thanks in large part to alumnus Jim Kilcoyne, who nurtured this group through the process. Chris Mancusi, VP for Expansion, conducted the Baptism Ritual for 15 candidates. The candidates formed an interest group last year and have been bonding by working together on projects, flag football and just hanging out.
This is a great example of what happens when local alumni take an interest in our floundering expansion program and roll up their sleeves to dig in and help. Many thanks to Brother Kilcoyne and all those who played a part in making this happen for their efforts.
Cold Weather Tips
With temperatures expected to be at or below freezing for much of the country this weekend, it is imperative you take the time to properly prepare your chapter house for the cold weather. It is especially important for those facilities just re-opening for the new term.
During periods of extreme colder temperatures
□ Service your furnace or boiler system—boiler pipes pose a particular risk in this weather.
□ Open the indoor faucets slightly to allow water to trickle as moving water does not freeze as easily.
□ Leave the doors to cabinets that contain water lines open, this will allow heat to enter the area and help prevent freeze.
□ Make sure that attic areas are well insulated to prevent the formation of ice dams.
□ Respond to any leaks promptly to mitigate damage and prevent further harm.
□ Make sure that appropriate chapter members know where the main water shut off is as well as any other water shut offs (e.g. around commodes), and that they are in good working condition.
Essential measures to minimize the risk of a freeze or water damage loss
□ Keep furnace on and thermostat set at or above 68 degrees.
□ Inspect windows and repair all broken glass.
□ Place additional insulation on exterior walls and windows.
□ Insulate exterior doors appropriately, and assure all close and latch completely.
□ Attach and secure downspouts with extension from foundation to prevent melting show from draining onto the driveway, sidewalks, or patios.
Additional safety measures during colder months
□ Clear all necessary snow and ice from sidewalks, fire escapes, and walkways which may result in a slip and fall hazard
□ Prohibit space heaters or ensure that your policies regarding space heaters are being followed. The National Fire Prevention Association reported that nearly 70% of home heating fires and deaths in 2002 were attributed to space heaters.
□ Enforce a no-smoking policy or ensure that your designated smoking area is equipped with a fire-safe disposal system.
In January of 2004, a fraternity house sustained water damage from extremely frigid temperatures. Lack of heat caused the residents to vacate the building |
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