WikiFur - User contributions [en]

Utah Furries

2011-07-13T21:57:16Z

LeDutch: /* Membership */

{{Protected-Vandal}}

[[File:utah_furries_logo.jpg|right]]
'''Utah Furries''' is the second largest furry meet up group in Utah centered in [[wikipedia:Orem,_Utah|Orem, Utah]]. The group's members range across the entire state to a few members appearing from states such as [[wikipedia:Idaho|Idaho]] and [[wikipedia:Wyoming|Wyoming]].

The group meets the second Saturday of every month participating in various activities such as: a BBQ, Nickel City, Trafalga, and performing in the Orem Summerfest Parade.

*'''Links''':
**'''Facebook Group''': http://www.facebook.com/groups/utah.furries?ap=1
**'''Twitter''': http://twitter.com/#!/UtahSt_Furries

== History ==
The Utah Furries group was started in 2008 two high school friends, a Gryphon named Kazul, and a Sumatran White Tiger Named Cain. Both the Creators left the group for their own reasons when the group had not scene additional members for 5 months. In their absence, the group grew a little, but since both admins had left, Facebook automatically had this message on the group 'This group has no admins.' with a link anyone could click to become admin. New active member Elias Saphir stepped up and assumed the void Administrator position.

After a short time, Kazul and Cain decided to come back and continue their adminship. The group got larger, Cain left, and then Frostee Fox was introduced into the adminship. It was at this point, nearing one hundred members on the Facebook group, that some of the plans of the members and some of the admins decided that there should there should be an official group meetup. Thus, on February 12th 2011, the first Utah Furries group meet occurred a Denny's with an attendance of about twenty people. It was decided to continue on with the meets.

During the second meet, an adminship of Elias Saphir, Kazul, and Frostee Fox was created and RooChi Lexico and Scha Darkart were assigned as moderators. May 2011 Kazul and Frostee stepped down from leadership after, "we felt as though we were being forced out by those both in power, and those who wanted it", and RooChi and Scha were introduced as admins. Frostee later told Elias, "It was sad to leave leadership, but I did it to reduce the amount of drama that was beginning in the group, and because the group was inevitably going to become a defacto arm of the UFF"

The group goals have consisted of creating a furry presence in the general Utah community and fulfilling service opportunities within the community. The benefits of this have already been seen by being asked to entertain children at the SLC CureSearch Walk in July 2011, after one of the organizers of the event saw the Utah Furries marching in the 2011 Orem City Summerfest Parade in June of 2011.

== Structure ==
As of yet, an official group structure has not been established. The admins are working hard on developing one and should be put out soon.

== Membership ==
The Facebook Group is a closed group and anyone wanting to join is subject to Admin approval. The group has many things for people to enjoy, and should be fun for anyone who chooses to attend.

Current Moderators ~ As of July 2011
*[[RooChi Lexico]]
*[[Elias Saphir]]
*[[Scha Darkart]]

Previous moderators:
*[[Kazul]]
*[[Cain Dalton]]
*[[Frostee Fox]]

== Policy on Minors ==
As of right now, the minimum age to be on the Facebook group is thirteen and the minimum age to attend the group meets is sixteen; however, individuals under the age of eighteen MUST be accompanied by an adult to the meets which will stay with them through the entire meet. If the minor does not have a parent or legal guardian to accompany them at the meet, then they may not attend the meet. This policy is subject to change.

== Activities ==
The Utah Furries organizes different meets each month. They range from BBQs to performing in a parade. These meets aim more to just make idle conversation, but for other furries really get to know other furries and to better the community in general (both furry and not). The meets, so far, have all been fursuiter friendly and get an attendance of upwards of four fursuiters, the CureSearch walk and the Trafalga meet both obtaining over ten suiters.

So far, the group has participated in the following activities: [[Strut your Mutt 2011]], [[SLC CureSearch Walk]]

== Conventions ==
Here is the list of conventions that will have a wide presence from the group.

*'''[[Rocky Mountain Fur Con]] 2011''':
**'''Notable Attendees''':
***'''[[RooChi Lexico]]''':
***'''[[Elias Saphir]]''':
***'''[[Evauk]]''':

*'''[[Rainfurrest]] 2011''':
**'''Notable Attendees''':
***'''[[Kazul]]''':
***'''[[Frostee Fox]]''':
***'''[[YuurYuu]]''':

== Media ==
So far the Utah Furries group doesn't have a notable media presence, though it is growing. However, current admin [[Elias Saphir]] has been putting together videos that give an overview of each meetups.

*'''[[Elias Saphir]] Videos''':
**'''February 12th Denny's Meet''': http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ryAEbG0CWGs
**'''March 12th BBQ Meet''': http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DwRuOPaRIsc
**'''April 9th Nickel City Meet''': http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=29KbC22R9Mk
**'''May 4th Trafalga Meet''': http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A9HAIcf472I
**'''Strut your Mutt Meet''': http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NjoMnHC3iyg

== Other Outlets==
*'''Links'''
**'''Twitter''': http://twitter.com/#!/UtahSt_Furries
**'''UStream''': http://www.ustream.tv/channel/utah-furries
**'''Email''': utah.furries@gmail.com
**'''Phone''': 1-801-200-FURS

[[Category:Regional groups]]
[[Category:Utah]]

Utah Furries

2011-07-13T21:56:02Z

LeDutch: /* History */

{{Protected-Vandal}}

[[File:utah_furries_logo.jpg|right]]
'''Utah Furries''' is the second largest furry meet up group in Utah centered in [[wikipedia:Orem,_Utah|Orem, Utah]]. The group's members range across the entire state to a few members appearing from states such as [[wikipedia:Idaho|Idaho]] and [[wikipedia:Wyoming|Wyoming]].

The group meets the second Saturday of every month participating in various activities such as: a BBQ, Nickel City, Trafalga, and performing in the Orem Summerfest Parade.

*'''Links''':
**'''Facebook Group''': http://www.facebook.com/groups/utah.furries?ap=1
**'''Twitter''': http://twitter.com/#!/UtahSt_Furries

== History ==
The Utah Furries group was started in 2008 two high school friends, a Gryphon named Kazul, and a Sumatran White Tiger Named Cain. Both the Creators left the group for their own reasons when the group had not scene additional members for 5 months. In their absence, the group grew a little, but since both admins had left, Facebook automatically had this message on the group 'This group has no admins.' with a link anyone could click to become admin. New active member Elias Saphir stepped up and assumed the void Administrator position.

After a short time, Kazul and Cain decided to come back and continue their adminship. The group got larger, Cain left, and then Frostee Fox was introduced into the adminship. It was at this point, nearing one hundred members on the Facebook group, that some of the plans of the members and some of the admins decided that there should there should be an official group meetup. Thus, on February 12th 2011, the first Utah Furries group meet occurred a Denny's with an attendance of about twenty people. It was decided to continue on with the meets.

During the second meet, an adminship of Elias Saphir, Kazul, and Frostee Fox was created and RooChi Lexico and Scha Darkart were assigned as moderators. May 2011 Kazul and Frostee stepped down from leadership after, "we felt as though we were being forced out by those both in power, and those who wanted it", and RooChi and Scha were introduced as admins. Frostee later told Elias, "It was sad to leave leadership, but I did it to reduce the amount of drama that was beginning in the group, and because the group was inevitably going to become a defacto arm of the UFF"

The group goals have consisted of creating a furry presence in the general Utah community and fulfilling service opportunities within the community. The benefits of this have already been seen by being asked to entertain children at the SLC CureSearch Walk in July 2011, after one of the organizers of the event saw the Utah Furries marching in the 2011 Orem City Summerfest Parade in June of 2011.

== Structure ==
As of yet, an official group structure has not been established. The admins are working hard on developing one and should be put out soon.

== Membership ==
Everyone is welcome to join the Facebook group and attend the meets (see section minors). The group has many things for people to enjoy, and should be fun for anyone who chooses to attend.

Current Moderators ~ As of July 2011
*[[RooChi Lexico]]
*[[Elias Saphir]]
*[[Scha Darkart]]

Previous moderators:
*[[Kazul]]
*[[Cain Dalton]]
*[[Frostee Fox]]

== Policy on Minors ==
As of right now, the minimum age to be on the Facebook group is thirteen and the minimum age to attend the group meets is sixteen; however, individuals under the age of eighteen MUST be accompanied by an adult to the meets which will stay with them through the entire meet. If the minor does not have a parent or legal guardian to accompany them at the meet, then they may not attend the meet. This policy is subject to change.

== Activities ==
The Utah Furries organizes different meets each month. They range from BBQs to performing in a parade. These meets aim more to just make idle conversation, but for other furries really get to know other furries and to better the community in general (both furry and not). The meets, so far, have all been fursuiter friendly and get an attendance of upwards of four fursuiters, the CureSearch walk and the Trafalga meet both obtaining over ten suiters.

So far, the group has participated in the following activities: [[Strut your Mutt 2011]], [[SLC CureSearch Walk]]

== Conventions ==
Here is the list of conventions that will have a wide presence from the group.

*'''[[Rocky Mountain Fur Con]] 2011''':
**'''Notable Attendees''':
***'''[[RooChi Lexico]]''':
***'''[[Elias Saphir]]''':
***'''[[Evauk]]''':

*'''[[Rainfurrest]] 2011''':
**'''Notable Attendees''':
***'''[[Kazul]]''':
***'''[[Frostee Fox]]''':
***'''[[YuurYuu]]''':

== Media ==
So far the Utah Furries group doesn't have a notable media presence, though it is growing. However, current admin [[Elias Saphir]] has been putting together videos that give an overview of each meetups.

*'''[[Elias Saphir]] Videos''':
**'''February 12th Denny's Meet''': http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ryAEbG0CWGs
**'''March 12th BBQ Meet''': http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DwRuOPaRIsc
**'''April 9th Nickel City Meet''': http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=29KbC22R9Mk
**'''May 4th Trafalga Meet''': http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A9HAIcf472I
**'''Strut your Mutt Meet''': http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NjoMnHC3iyg

== Other Outlets==
*'''Links'''
**'''Twitter''': http://twitter.com/#!/UtahSt_Furries
**'''UStream''': http://www.ustream.tv/channel/utah-furries
**'''Email''': utah.furries@gmail.com
**'''Phone''': 1-801-200-FURS

[[Category:Regional groups]]
[[Category:Utah]]

Utah Furries

2011-07-13T21:55:09Z

LeDutch: /* History */

{{Protected-Vandal}}

[[File:utah_furries_logo.jpg|right]]
'''Utah Furries''' is the second largest furry meet up group in Utah centered in [[wikipedia:Orem,_Utah|Orem, Utah]]. The group's members range across the entire state to a few members appearing from states such as [[wikipedia:Idaho|Idaho]] and [[wikipedia:Wyoming|Wyoming]].

The group meets the second Saturday of every month participating in various activities such as: a BBQ, Nickel City, Trafalga, and performing in the Orem Summerfest Parade.

*'''Links''':
**'''Facebook Group''': http://www.facebook.com/groups/utah.furries?ap=1
**'''Twitter''': http://twitter.com/#!/UtahSt_Furries

== History ==
The Utah Furries group was started in 2008 two high school friends, a Gryphon named Kazul, and a Sumatran White Tiger Named Cain. Both the Creators left the group for their own reasons when the group had not scene additional members for 5 months. In their absence, the group grew a little, but since both admins had left, Facebook automatically had this message on the group 'This group has no admins.' with a link anyone could click to become admin. New active member Elias Saphir stepped up and assumed the void Administrator position.
After a short time, Kazul and Cain decided to come back and continue their adminship. The group got larger, Cain left, and then Frostee Fox was introduced into the adminship. It was at this point, nearing one hundred members on the Facebook group, that some of the plans of the members and some of the admins decided that there should there should be an official group meetup. Thus, on February 12th 2011, the first Utah Furries group meet occurred a Denny's with an attendance of about twenty people. It was decided to continue on with the meets.
During the second meet, an adminship of Elias Saphir, Kazul, and Frostee Fox was created and RooChi Lexico and Scha Darkart were assigned as moderators. May 2011 Kazul and Frostee stepped down from leadership after, "we felt as though we were being forced out by those both in power, and those who wanted it", and RooChi and Scha were introduced as admins. Frostee later told Elias, "It was sad to leave leadership, but I did it to reduce the amount of drama that was beginning in the group, and because the group was inevitably going to become a defacto arm of the UFF"
The group goals have consisted of creating a furry presence in the general Utah community and fulfilling service opportunities within the community. The benefits of this have already been seen by being asked to entertain children at the SLC CureSearch Walk in July 2011, after one of the organizers of the event saw the Utah Furries marching in the 2011 Orem City Summerfest Parade in June of 2011.

== Structure ==
As of yet, an official group structure has not been established. The admins are working hard on developing one and should be put out soon.

== Membership ==
Everyone is welcome to join the Facebook group and attend the meets (see section minors). The group has many things for people to enjoy, and should be fun for anyone who chooses to attend.

Current Moderators ~ As of July 2011
*[[RooChi Lexico]]
*[[Elias Saphir]]
*[[Scha Darkart]]

Previous moderators:
*[[Kazul]]
*[[Cain Dalton]]
*[[Frostee Fox]]

== Policy on Minors ==
As of right now, the minimum age to be on the Facebook group is thirteen and the minimum age to attend the group meets is sixteen; however, individuals under the age of eighteen MUST be accompanied by an adult to the meets which will stay with them through the entire meet. If the minor does not have a parent or legal guardian to accompany them at the meet, then they may not attend the meet. This policy is subject to change.

== Activities ==
The Utah Furries organizes different meets each month. They range from BBQs to performing in a parade. These meets aim more to just make idle conversation, but for other furries really get to know other furries and to better the community in general (both furry and not). The meets, so far, have all been fursuiter friendly and get an attendance of upwards of four fursuiters, the CureSearch walk and the Trafalga meet both obtaining over ten suiters.

So far, the group has participated in the following activities: [[Strut your Mutt 2011]], [[SLC CureSearch Walk]]

== Conventions ==
Here is the list of conventions that will have a wide presence from the group.

*'''[[Rocky Mountain Fur Con]] 2011''':
**'''Notable Attendees''':
***'''[[RooChi Lexico]]''':
***'''[[Elias Saphir]]''':
***'''[[Evauk]]''':

*'''[[Rainfurrest]] 2011''':
**'''Notable Attendees''':
***'''[[Kazul]]''':
***'''[[Frostee Fox]]''':
***'''[[YuurYuu]]''':

== Media ==
So far the Utah Furries group doesn't have a notable media presence, though it is growing. However, current admin [[Elias Saphir]] has been putting together videos that give an overview of each meetups.

*'''[[Elias Saphir]] Videos''':
**'''February 12th Denny's Meet''': http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ryAEbG0CWGs
**'''March 12th BBQ Meet''': http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DwRuOPaRIsc
**'''April 9th Nickel City Meet''': http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=29KbC22R9Mk
**'''May 4th Trafalga Meet''': http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A9HAIcf472I
**'''Strut your Mutt Meet''': http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NjoMnHC3iyg

== Other Outlets==
*'''Links'''
**'''Twitter''': http://twitter.com/#!/UtahSt_Furries
**'''UStream''': http://www.ustream.tv/channel/utah-furries
**'''Email''': utah.furries@gmail.com
**'''Phone''': 1-801-200-FURS

[[Category:Regional groups]]
[[Category:Utah]]

Utah Furries

2011-07-13T21:06:51Z

LeDutch: /* Membership */

[[File:utah_furries_logo.jpg|right]]
'''Utah Furries''' is the second largest furry meet up group in Utah centered in [[wikipedia:Orem,_Utah|Orem, Utah]]. The group's members range across the entire state to a few members appearing from states such as [[wikipedia:Idaho|Idaho]] and [[wikipedia:Wyoming|Wyoming]].

The group meets the second Saturday of every month participating in various activities such as: a BBQ, Nickel City, Trafalga, and performing in the Orem Summerfest Parade.

*'''Links''':
**'''Facebook Group''': http://www.facebook.com/groups/utah.furries?ap=1
**'''Twitter''': http://twitter.com/#!/UtahSt_Furries

== History ==
The Utah Furries group was started in 2008 two high school friends, a Gryphon named Kazul, and a Sumatran White Tiger Named Cain. Both the Creators left the group for their own reasons when the group had not seen additional members for 5 months. In their absence, the group grew a little, but since both admins had left, Facebook automatically had this message on the group 'This group has no admins.' with a link anyone could click to become admin. new active member Elias Saphir stepped up and assumed the void Administrator position.

After a short time, Kazul and Cain decided to come back and continue their adminship. The group got larger, Cain left, and then Frostee Fox was introduced into the adminship. It was at this point, nearing one hundred members on the Facebook group, that some of the plans of the members and some of the admins decided that there should there should be an official group meetup. Thus, on February 12th 2011, the first Utah Furries group meet occurred a Denny's with an attendance of about twenty people. It was decided to continue on with the meets.

During the second meet, an adminship of Elias Saphir, Kazul, and Frostee Fox was created and RooChi Lexico and Scha Darkart were assigned as moderators. May 2011 Kazul and Frostee stepped down from leadership after, "we felt as though we were being forced out by those both in power, and those who wanted it", and RooChi and Scha were introduced as admins. Frostee later told Elias, "It was sad to leave leadership, but I did it to reduce the amount of drama that was beginning in the group, and because the group was inevitably going to become a defacto arm of the UFF"

The group goals have consisted of creating a furry presence in the general Utah community and fulfilling service opportunities within the community. The benefits of this have already been seen by being asked to entertain children at the SLC CureSearch Walk in July 2011, after one of the organizers of the event saw the Utah Furries marching in the 2011 Orem City Summerfest Parade in June of 2011.

== Structure ==
As of yet, an official group structure has not been established, and dicussions around this topic have been the source of a lot of drama in the group. Elias Saphir was the first one to suggest making a government, which he did at the second meeting the group ever had in march 12th, the potluck/BBQ in the park. At the Time the other Admins, Frostee Fox and Kazul, did not see a reason for a government but went along with it anyways.

back in April of 2011, the admins had a period of time that people could submit Governmental Structure Proposals. The Proposals had to include the following: the Purpose of the Structure, Leadership Positions, Leadership Terms and Power Switching, Leadership Conflict of Interest Rules, The Rights of the Community (Bill of Rights), and Amendments & Rules. Only 3 Proposals were submitted, two versions were submitted by admin Elias Saphir (one and then a sightly modified upgraded version) and one by member Thay Rustback. Here is Elias's 2nd version and Thay's Proposal:

"Utah Valley Furries Governmental Structure Proposal
Proposal By: Austin Clift Based On: N/A Date Created: April 14, 2011 Date Submitted: April 14, 2011

Purpose of the Structure: Each governmental structure holds a distinct purpose. Some may have a purpose of giving the power over to its’ citizens so they have complete control, others will give all of the power to the leadership. Please describe in the box below what you hope to achieve within the structure including, but not limited to: Where the power is held, goals of the structure, and the reasons for where the power is held and the goals. The purpose of this structure is to give sufficient power to the leadership positions, but still give a good amount of control to the community. The goals are as follows: Cut down on out of group and inner group drama with specialized positions. Have a personal that has the highest authority so, if the leadership cannot create a winning vote (a tie), that highest authority will be the final say on the issue. Of course only after both sides make their argument for what they believe should happen.

The reasons for having a split power between leadership and the community and the goals are as follows: If the community has no power it will up-rise (create drama) and undermine the specialized positions to rid drama. No drama is always good, no one can argue with that. If ties are continuous, the leadership will become useless and unable to make choices for the better of the group.

Leadership Positions (Max of Six, Minimum of Two): Because the group is smaller, though this may change in time, there cannot be too many leadership positions nor can there be too few. Please list any positions that your structure will implement, along with their descriptions and roles and duties. Title: Description: President This individual holds the highest power, having the final say on issues that may hold up the system; however, the power this individual holds is not much higher than the Vice Presidents.
This individual holds the following powers and duties: If there is any tie within the group he/she will have the final say after the two sides demonstrate their point. He/she will be a part of the voting committee of any issues and will assign the dates and times of voting events (No one can act as proxy for this individual). Assign tasks to any of the moderators and the Vice Presidents. If a VP is not doing his/her job, the President shall assume their responsibilities. If a VP is not doing his/her job, the President can open a community vote that can impeach a VP and Moderator. Vice President 1 This individual holds the second highest power, having the capability to vote in leadership-only voting committees.
This individual holds the following powers and duties: Vote and communicate his/her ideas during voting meets. He/she will be a part of the voting committee and is essential for its occurrence. If he/she cannot attend the meeting, he/she can find any of the three moderators to act as the Vice President in proxy (The Moderator must speak the Vice Presidents thoughts and feelings, even if the Moderator acting as proxy has differing thoughts and feelings.) A Moderator acting as a proxy cannot vote as a Moderator when there is a voting meeting that will include moderators. Assigns tasks to Moderator 1 and Domestic Issues Moderator. If Moderator 1 is not doing his/her job, the VP1 assumes the responsibility. Accept assignments from President. Vice President 2 This individual holds the second highest power, having the capability to vote in leadership-only voting committees.
This individual holds the following powers and duties: Vote and communicate his/her ideas during voting meets. He/she will be a part of the voting committee and is essential for its occurrence. If he/she cannot attend the meeting, he/she can find any of the three moderators to act as the Vice President in proxy (The Moderator must speak the Vice Presidents thoughts and feelings, even if the Moderator acting as proxy has differing thoughts and feelings.) A Moderator acting as a proxy cannot vote as a Moderator when there is a voting meeting that will include moderators. Assigns tasks to Moderator 2 and Domestic Issues Moderator. If Moderator 2 is not doing his/her job, the VP2 assumes the responsibility. Accepts assignments from President. Moderator 1 This individual holds the third highest power, having the capability to vote in some leadership-only voting committees.
This individual holds the following powers and duties: Vote and communicate his/her ideas during voting meets. Voting attendance while not necessary is important and he/she should attend to each meeting where applicable; however, a community member can act as a proxy with an approval of a VP or President. Attends to out-of group affairs, such as visiting local business to see if they would be okay with fursuiting (tails, ears, full suits, half suits, etc.) Please note: this individual MUST visit the business and show them the portfolio of pictures of past events. Accepting assignments from VP1. Moderator 2 This individual holds the third highest power, having the capability to vote in some leadership-only voting committees.
This individual holds the following powers and duties: Vote and communicate his/her ideas during voting meets. Voting attendance while not necessary is important and he/she should attend to each meeting where applicable; however, a community member can act as a proxy with an approval of a VP or President. Attends to inner-group affairs such as, but not limited to: Drama elimination Birthday announcements Notifying minors when they can/not attend Making sure when minors do attend they follow the necessary precautions Accepting assignments from VP2. Domestic Issues Moderator This individual holds the fourth highest power, not being able to vote and accepting assignments from the Moderators and VP (if applicable).
This individual holds the following powers and duties: Accept assignments from both VPs and Moderators. Deal with drama within the group. (This is essentially the purpose of this leadership’s position.)

Leadership Terms and Power Switching: Each leadership will have term limits. Please list how long the term limits will be for each position and the process to switch the positions. Use a bullet list to represent each separate idea. Each leadership position has a three term limit. After an individual has reached his/her limit he/she has two choices. Drop any leadership responsibilities and become a part of the normal community. Go after another leadership position by opening a community vote. If the person is voted in another leadership position with an 80% majority, he/she will assume that responsibility. (The President does not have this option) Each term is four months. A person may again go after a leadership position after three cycles (new people). After each term the following will occur: A community meeting will be held, and individuals who wish to have their hand at a leadership role will present why they should assume that role. After this, people with objections will speak up. After this, there will be a vote where simple majority is victor. Voting will be a private matter. A person will write his/her vote on a piece of paper, and put it in a box. The box will be then shaken up and the votes will be tallied. If the existing leader obtains a majority, he/she will assume the responsibilities and powers for another term. Only people in attendance of the voting meeting may vote.

Leadership Conflict of Interest Rules: There will arise a time where elected leaders will have conflicts of interest. Please list the process on how, when these arise, the problem will be dealt with. Use a bullet list to represent each separate idea. If 40% of the community agrees that there is a conflict of interest, they may open up a voting forum and do the following: Present their case in front of the leadership committee and the community. Have votes cast (In the same way term voting occurs). If the leader is impeached, the roles of that person will be shifted up to the person of higher power until a voting meeting can occur. Due to couples being more inclined to agree on the same thing, no two people in a relationship may become leaders unless: The community votes and a high majority (70%) see no problem with it. The relationship happens after the leaders are voted in.

The Rights of the Community (Bill of Rights): Each community needs their rights. These can include the power to impeach current leadership, have a community voting on something leadership usually decides on their own, etc. Please list the rights of the community here, using bullet lists. Please provide sufficient detail of those rights. Community members may impeach leaders that they believe that are not the best for the group. Community members may show up at leadership-only voting forums and argue for/against what is being discussed. Community members have the freedom of speech, excluding: Items that will create drama. If an individual has a problem with another, he/she should go directly to that individual, with a moderator, and talk it out; not talk to anyone he/she sees. Community members are free to argue and debate with other members as long as: It does not occur during a meet. It does not occur on any of our website pages. It does not create tension that will ruin an individual’s fun at the meet. (In other words, if this argument will cause a person to refuse to show up at the meets, then do not argue to that degree.)

Amendments & Rules: Each governmental structure needs rules to adhere by; these rules will be applied to all members, including leadership. Please, with a bullet list, describe each rule. Please provide sufficient detail of those rights. There will be no debating and/or arguing the following on anything related to the meet: Politics Religion You can debate the rules of the group WITHIN the PROPER forum. This group is for individuals eighteen or older. If the leadership sees that an event is fit for a minor to attend, then the minor will need to wear a red wrist band and be accompanied by a guardian or parent. Minors under the age of sixteen are not permitted, no exceptions.

Other Items: If there are any other items that do not belong in any other field, please place them here. Again, please provide information within a bullet list. There will be an anti-drama forum once every two months. If you have a drama/tension with another individual, then bring them here and talk about it in the presence of moderators that will make sure the talking does not get to heated and/or hurtful. There shall be a leadership forum to talk about the progress of the group (leaders only) and the steps that should be taken to further it.

Signature: Austin Clift Date: April 14, 2011 Current Leadership Signatures On the chance that your structure proposal is chosen, each current leadership member will sign off on it, enacting its passage and starting the implementing phase.
Leadership 1 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________ Leadership 2 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________ Leadership 3 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________ Leadership 4 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________ Leadership 6 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________ Leadership 6 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________"

"Utah Valley Furries Governmental Structure Proposal

Proposal By: ______Thay/Risha________ Based On: ________________ Date Created: ______5/8/11_______ Date Submitted: ____5/9/11________

Purpose of the Structure: Each governmental structure holds a distinct purpose. Some may have a purpose of giving the power over to its’ citizens so they have complete control, others will give all of the power to the leadership. Please describe in the box below what you hope to achieve within the structure including, but not limited to: Where the power is held, goals of the structure, and the reasons for where the power is held and the goals.
The purpose of this government is to achieve organization and initiative within the group. Its roles will include, but not be limited to… -setting guidelines/rules/standards (including keeping everything safe and legal) -organizing activities -promoting camaraderie/ peace amongst the group members -make sure everyone has fun/feels supported/belonging
This government is not a controlling entity; it will give the group more organization and direct and allow the group to achiever bigger, better things. Basically, they make things happen.

Leadership Positions (Max of Six, Minimum of Two): Because the group is smaller, though this may change in time, there cannot be too many leadership positions nor can there be too few. Please list any positions that your structure will implement, along with their descriptions and roles and duties. Title: Description:
Leaders: =President: -Task delegation -Takes an a initiatory role -Figurehead -Facilitator -Big picture- should make sure everything else is running smoothly
=Vice President: -Helps/coordinates with the President to perform all of the same tasks

Council of representives: =Secretary: -take minutes at any meetings -keep copies of all documents, forms, etc. -Fundraising
=Activities coordinator: - gets in contact with the venues with which we wish to arrange meets. -finds out what people want/like to do
=Internal Relations: -take all internal complaints -peacemaker -brings interpersonal relation problems to the attention of other leader ship
All leadership and council members should help others if it is needed; no one should be left to fulfill their tasks on their own. The vice president or another leadership member may double as another role to create an odd number to make voting easier. For example, perhaps he vice president will take on the role on activities coordinator. However if this conflicts with their current duties, they must delegate the task to another.
Leadership Terms and Power Switching: Each leadership will have term limits. Please list how long the term limits will be for each position and the process to switch the positions. Use a bullet list to represent each separate idea.

Terms are four months in length. Term limits apply to full terms; if a member join the council half-way through a term, that term does not count towards their limit.
Leaders: -Term limit is three terms, whether consecutive or not. -determined by an election involving the whole group- either at a meet or an anonymous online poll.
Council: -Two consecutive terms at a time, two terms per post, but may serve up to four terms. (by having a different term limit, this prevents a total leadership turnover if everyone maxes out their term limits- obviously not always, but it will help.) -those who wish to participate on the council must submit a form or application of some sort, at which time the leadership will determine those who will fill the role. As these are positions made to aid the leaders in fulfilling all necessary tasks, the leaders will choose these partners. Leaders may elect to hold a poll anyway.
There may be an overlap as new leadership cycles in, in order to train in new leadership.

Leadership Conflict of Interest Rules: There will arise a time where elected leaders will have conflicts of interest. Please list the process on how, when these arise, the problem will be dealt with. Use a bullet list to represent each separate idea.

Leaders may elect to abstain from a vote should they feel as though their bias is too strong and may affect the group negatively. The council may elect to call in another member to take the absent voter’s place or to simply continue without another person.
If others notice the conflict of interest and the leader refuses to step down, the council may take a vote to omit this person from the decision-making process; the vote must carry majority to accomplish this. Tact and care should be used in order to prevent conflict within leadership.

The Rights of the Community (Bill of Rights): Each community needs their rights. These can include the power to impeach current leadership, have a community voting on something leadership usually decides on their own, etc. Please list the rights of the community here, using bullet lists. Please provide sufficient detail of those rights.

Communities wishing for change that cannot be achieved simply by requesting an audience with leadership may petition for such and those signing the petition must number at least twelve.
Rights of the community include: -impeachment of leadership on reasonable grounds, including but not limited to various sorts of misconduct and failure to fulfill their role -having a say in decisions; leadership should communicate to inform the community of any and all things, within reason (especially as this is a fairly quickly cycling gov’t, there really isn’t anything to hide anyway) -nominating and electing leaders and representatives.
Amendments & Rules: Each governmental structure needs rules to adhere by; these rules will be applied to all members, including leadership. Please, with a bullet list, describe each rule. Please provide sufficient detail of those rights.

-All decisions will be made in the best interest and safety of the group as a whole. -All state, local and facility rules and laws must be obeyed at all times. -Respect all members/ do not start fights, arguments, contention. Slander will not be tolerated. If there is a problem, it will be brought to the attention of internal relations and it will be dealt with appropriately -This group does not nor will have any religious or political affiliations -In extreme cases, members may be suspended from attending meets and participating in online discussion; grounds and consequences to be decided upon on a case-to-case basis -No minors will be permitted to attend meets --Specific events maybe organized in which minors may attend with parental permission --Under no circumstances will said minors be given a ride by another member; they must have a ride with a family member. --Absolutely no minors under 16 at all.
Other Items: If there are any other items that do not belong in any other field, please place them here. Again, please provide information within a bullet list.

Signature: _Risha Kapoor____ Date: _5/9/11_____ Current Leadership Signatures On the chance that the structure of the group will change, each current leadership member will sign off on it, enacting its passage and starting the implementing phase.
Leadership 1 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________ Leadership 2 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________ Leadership 3 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________ Leadership 4 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________ Leadership 5 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________ Leadership 6 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________"

Elias decided that since not enough proposal's were submitted, the group would delay in getting a government set up until He, Roochi and Scha could make an all new proposal, combining the one that had been submitted. The admins have repeatedly promised to get have it done by a certain date, but use the excuse, 'other, more important things had to be done first' but Admin Elias Saphir posted this in response to an inquiry by member Cassiopia Cougar about the status of the government: "It is being worked on. Our goal is to finish it before the next meet.[reffering to the July 13th 2011 Potluck meet)

== Membership ==
The Facebook group is a closed group and people wanting to join are subject to Admin approval. The group has many things for people to enjoy, and should be fun for anyone who chooses to attend.

Creators:
*[[Kazul]]
*[[Cain Dalton]]

Current Moderators ~ As of July 2011
*[[RooChi Lexico]]
*[[Elias Saphir]]
*[[Scha Darkart]]

Previous moderators:
*[[Kazul]]
*[[Cain Dalton]]
*[[Frostee Fox]]

== Policy on Minors ==
As of right now, the minimum age to be on the Facebook group is thirteen and the minimum age to attend the group meets is sixteen; however, individuals under the age of eighteen MUST be accompanied by an adult to the meets which will stay with them through the entire meet. If the minor does not have a parent or legal guardian to accompany them at the meet, then they may not attend the meet. This policy is subject to change.

== Activities ==
The Utah Furries organizes different meets each month. They range from BBQs to performing in a parade. These meets aim more to just make idle conversation, but for other furries really get to know other furries and to better the community in general (both furry and not). The meets, with the exception of the very first meet at Denny's, have all been focused on Fursuiter, leaving everyone else to stand back and watch. For this reason, The admins require every suiter is assigned 2 and sometimes 3 handelers at every meet.

So far, the group has participated in the following activities: [[Strut your Mutt 2011]], [[SLC CureSearch Walk]]

== Conventions ==
Here is the list of conventions that will have a wide presence from the group.

*'''[[Rocky Mountain Fur Con]] 2011''':
**'''Notable Attendees''':
***'''[[RooChi Lexico]]''':
***'''[[Elias Saphir]]''':
***'''[[Evauk]]''':

*'''[[Rainfurrest]] 2011''':
**'''Notable Attendees''':
***'''[[Kazul]]''':
***'''[[Frostee Fox]]''':
***'''[[YuurYuu]]''':

== Media ==
So far the Utah Furries group doesn't have a notable media presence, though it is growing. However, current admin [[Elias Saphir]] has been putting together videos that give an overview of each meetups.

*'''[[Elias Saphir]] Videos''':
**'''February 12th Denny's Meet''': http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ryAEbG0CWGs
**'''March 12th BBQ Meet''': http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DwRuOPaRIsc
**'''April 9th Nickel City Meet''': http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=29KbC22R9Mk
**'''May 4th Trafalga Meet''': http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A9HAIcf472I
**'''Strut your Mutt Meet''': http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NjoMnHC3iyg

== Other Outlets==
*'''Links'''
**'''Twitter''': http://twitter.com/#!/UtahSt_Furries
**'''UStream''': http://www.ustream.tv/channel/utah-furries
**'''Email''': utah.furries@gmail.com
**'''Phone''': 1-801-200-FURS

[[Category:Regional groups]]
[[Category:Utah]]

Utah Furries

2011-07-13T21:05:32Z

LeDutch: /* Membership */

[[File:utah_furries_logo.jpg|right]]
'''Utah Furries''' is the second largest furry meet up group in Utah centered in [[wikipedia:Orem,_Utah|Orem, Utah]]. The group's members range across the entire state to a few members appearing from states such as [[wikipedia:Idaho|Idaho]] and [[wikipedia:Wyoming|Wyoming]].

The group meets the second Saturday of every month participating in various activities such as: a BBQ, Nickel City, Trafalga, and performing in the Orem Summerfest Parade.

*'''Links''':
**'''Facebook Group''': http://www.facebook.com/groups/utah.furries?ap=1
**'''Twitter''': http://twitter.com/#!/UtahSt_Furries

== History ==
The Utah Furries group was started in 2008 two high school friends, a Gryphon named Kazul, and a Sumatran White Tiger Named Cain. Both the Creators left the group for their own reasons when the group had not seen additional members for 5 months. In their absence, the group grew a little, but since both admins had left, Facebook automatically had this message on the group 'This group has no admins.' with a link anyone could click to become admin. new active member Elias Saphir stepped up and assumed the void Administrator position.

After a short time, Kazul and Cain decided to come back and continue their adminship. The group got larger, Cain left, and then Frostee Fox was introduced into the adminship. It was at this point, nearing one hundred members on the Facebook group, that some of the plans of the members and some of the admins decided that there should there should be an official group meetup. Thus, on February 12th 2011, the first Utah Furries group meet occurred a Denny's with an attendance of about twenty people. It was decided to continue on with the meets.

During the second meet, an adminship of Elias Saphir, Kazul, and Frostee Fox was created and RooChi Lexico and Scha Darkart were assigned as moderators. May 2011 Kazul and Frostee stepped down from leadership after, "we felt as though we were being forced out by those both in power, and those who wanted it", and RooChi and Scha were introduced as admins. Frostee later told Elias, "It was sad to leave leadership, but I did it to reduce the amount of drama that was beginning in the group, and because the group was inevitably going to become a defacto arm of the UFF"

The group goals have consisted of creating a furry presence in the general Utah community and fulfilling service opportunities within the community. The benefits of this have already been seen by being asked to entertain children at the SLC CureSearch Walk in July 2011, after one of the organizers of the event saw the Utah Furries marching in the 2011 Orem City Summerfest Parade in June of 2011.

== Structure ==
As of yet, an official group structure has not been established, and dicussions around this topic have been the source of a lot of drama in the group. Elias Saphir was the first one to suggest making a government, which he did at the second meeting the group ever had in march 12th, the potluck/BBQ in the park. At the Time the other Admins, Frostee Fox and Kazul, did not see a reason for a government but went along with it anyways.

back in April of 2011, the admins had a period of time that people could submit Governmental Structure Proposals. The Proposals had to include the following: the Purpose of the Structure, Leadership Positions, Leadership Terms and Power Switching, Leadership Conflict of Interest Rules, The Rights of the Community (Bill of Rights), and Amendments & Rules. Only 3 Proposals were submitted, two versions were submitted by admin Elias Saphir (one and then a sightly modified upgraded version) and one by member Thay Rustback. Here is Elias's 2nd version and Thay's Proposal:

"Utah Valley Furries Governmental Structure Proposal
Proposal By: Austin Clift Based On: N/A Date Created: April 14, 2011 Date Submitted: April 14, 2011

Purpose of the Structure: Each governmental structure holds a distinct purpose. Some may have a purpose of giving the power over to its’ citizens so they have complete control, others will give all of the power to the leadership. Please describe in the box below what you hope to achieve within the structure including, but not limited to: Where the power is held, goals of the structure, and the reasons for where the power is held and the goals. The purpose of this structure is to give sufficient power to the leadership positions, but still give a good amount of control to the community. The goals are as follows: Cut down on out of group and inner group drama with specialized positions. Have a personal that has the highest authority so, if the leadership cannot create a winning vote (a tie), that highest authority will be the final say on the issue. Of course only after both sides make their argument for what they believe should happen.

The reasons for having a split power between leadership and the community and the goals are as follows: If the community has no power it will up-rise (create drama) and undermine the specialized positions to rid drama. No drama is always good, no one can argue with that. If ties are continuous, the leadership will become useless and unable to make choices for the better of the group.

Leadership Positions (Max of Six, Minimum of Two): Because the group is smaller, though this may change in time, there cannot be too many leadership positions nor can there be too few. Please list any positions that your structure will implement, along with their descriptions and roles and duties. Title: Description: President This individual holds the highest power, having the final say on issues that may hold up the system; however, the power this individual holds is not much higher than the Vice Presidents.
This individual holds the following powers and duties: If there is any tie within the group he/she will have the final say after the two sides demonstrate their point. He/she will be a part of the voting committee of any issues and will assign the dates and times of voting events (No one can act as proxy for this individual). Assign tasks to any of the moderators and the Vice Presidents. If a VP is not doing his/her job, the President shall assume their responsibilities. If a VP is not doing his/her job, the President can open a community vote that can impeach a VP and Moderator. Vice President 1 This individual holds the second highest power, having the capability to vote in leadership-only voting committees.
This individual holds the following powers and duties: Vote and communicate his/her ideas during voting meets. He/she will be a part of the voting committee and is essential for its occurrence. If he/she cannot attend the meeting, he/she can find any of the three moderators to act as the Vice President in proxy (The Moderator must speak the Vice Presidents thoughts and feelings, even if the Moderator acting as proxy has differing thoughts and feelings.) A Moderator acting as a proxy cannot vote as a Moderator when there is a voting meeting that will include moderators. Assigns tasks to Moderator 1 and Domestic Issues Moderator. If Moderator 1 is not doing his/her job, the VP1 assumes the responsibility. Accept assignments from President. Vice President 2 This individual holds the second highest power, having the capability to vote in leadership-only voting committees.
This individual holds the following powers and duties: Vote and communicate his/her ideas during voting meets. He/she will be a part of the voting committee and is essential for its occurrence. If he/she cannot attend the meeting, he/she can find any of the three moderators to act as the Vice President in proxy (The Moderator must speak the Vice Presidents thoughts and feelings, even if the Moderator acting as proxy has differing thoughts and feelings.) A Moderator acting as a proxy cannot vote as a Moderator when there is a voting meeting that will include moderators. Assigns tasks to Moderator 2 and Domestic Issues Moderator. If Moderator 2 is not doing his/her job, the VP2 assumes the responsibility. Accepts assignments from President. Moderator 1 This individual holds the third highest power, having the capability to vote in some leadership-only voting committees.
This individual holds the following powers and duties: Vote and communicate his/her ideas during voting meets. Voting attendance while not necessary is important and he/she should attend to each meeting where applicable; however, a community member can act as a proxy with an approval of a VP or President. Attends to out-of group affairs, such as visiting local business to see if they would be okay with fursuiting (tails, ears, full suits, half suits, etc.) Please note: this individual MUST visit the business and show them the portfolio of pictures of past events. Accepting assignments from VP1. Moderator 2 This individual holds the third highest power, having the capability to vote in some leadership-only voting committees.
This individual holds the following powers and duties: Vote and communicate his/her ideas during voting meets. Voting attendance while not necessary is important and he/she should attend to each meeting where applicable; however, a community member can act as a proxy with an approval of a VP or President. Attends to inner-group affairs such as, but not limited to: Drama elimination Birthday announcements Notifying minors when they can/not attend Making sure when minors do attend they follow the necessary precautions Accepting assignments from VP2. Domestic Issues Moderator This individual holds the fourth highest power, not being able to vote and accepting assignments from the Moderators and VP (if applicable).
This individual holds the following powers and duties: Accept assignments from both VPs and Moderators. Deal with drama within the group. (This is essentially the purpose of this leadership’s position.)

Leadership Terms and Power Switching: Each leadership will have term limits. Please list how long the term limits will be for each position and the process to switch the positions. Use a bullet list to represent each separate idea. Each leadership position has a three term limit. After an individual has reached his/her limit he/she has two choices. Drop any leadership responsibilities and become a part of the normal community. Go after another leadership position by opening a community vote. If the person is voted in another leadership position with an 80% majority, he/she will assume that responsibility. (The President does not have this option) Each term is four months. A person may again go after a leadership position after three cycles (new people). After each term the following will occur: A community meeting will be held, and individuals who wish to have their hand at a leadership role will present why they should assume that role. After this, people with objections will speak up. After this, there will be a vote where simple majority is victor. Voting will be a private matter. A person will write his/her vote on a piece of paper, and put it in a box. The box will be then shaken up and the votes will be tallied. If the existing leader obtains a majority, he/she will assume the responsibilities and powers for another term. Only people in attendance of the voting meeting may vote.

Leadership Conflict of Interest Rules: There will arise a time where elected leaders will have conflicts of interest. Please list the process on how, when these arise, the problem will be dealt with. Use a bullet list to represent each separate idea. If 40% of the community agrees that there is a conflict of interest, they may open up a voting forum and do the following: Present their case in front of the leadership committee and the community. Have votes cast (In the same way term voting occurs). If the leader is impeached, the roles of that person will be shifted up to the person of higher power until a voting meeting can occur. Due to couples being more inclined to agree on the same thing, no two people in a relationship may become leaders unless: The community votes and a high majority (70%) see no problem with it. The relationship happens after the leaders are voted in.

The Rights of the Community (Bill of Rights): Each community needs their rights. These can include the power to impeach current leadership, have a community voting on something leadership usually decides on their own, etc. Please list the rights of the community here, using bullet lists. Please provide sufficient detail of those rights. Community members may impeach leaders that they believe that are not the best for the group. Community members may show up at leadership-only voting forums and argue for/against what is being discussed. Community members have the freedom of speech, excluding: Items that will create drama. If an individual has a problem with another, he/she should go directly to that individual, with a moderator, and talk it out; not talk to anyone he/she sees. Community members are free to argue and debate with other members as long as: It does not occur during a meet. It does not occur on any of our website pages. It does not create tension that will ruin an individual’s fun at the meet. (In other words, if this argument will cause a person to refuse to show up at the meets, then do not argue to that degree.)

Amendments & Rules: Each governmental structure needs rules to adhere by; these rules will be applied to all members, including leadership. Please, with a bullet list, describe each rule. Please provide sufficient detail of those rights. There will be no debating and/or arguing the following on anything related to the meet: Politics Religion You can debate the rules of the group WITHIN the PROPER forum. This group is for individuals eighteen or older. If the leadership sees that an event is fit for a minor to attend, then the minor will need to wear a red wrist band and be accompanied by a guardian or parent. Minors under the age of sixteen are not permitted, no exceptions.

Other Items: If there are any other items that do not belong in any other field, please place them here. Again, please provide information within a bullet list. There will be an anti-drama forum once every two months. If you have a drama/tension with another individual, then bring them here and talk about it in the presence of moderators that will make sure the talking does not get to heated and/or hurtful. There shall be a leadership forum to talk about the progress of the group (leaders only) and the steps that should be taken to further it.

Signature: Austin Clift Date: April 14, 2011 Current Leadership Signatures On the chance that your structure proposal is chosen, each current leadership member will sign off on it, enacting its passage and starting the implementing phase.
Leadership 1 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________ Leadership 2 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________ Leadership 3 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________ Leadership 4 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________ Leadership 6 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________ Leadership 6 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________"

"Utah Valley Furries Governmental Structure Proposal

Proposal By: ______Thay/Risha________ Based On: ________________ Date Created: ______5/8/11_______ Date Submitted: ____5/9/11________

Purpose of the Structure: Each governmental structure holds a distinct purpose. Some may have a purpose of giving the power over to its’ citizens so they have complete control, others will give all of the power to the leadership. Please describe in the box below what you hope to achieve within the structure including, but not limited to: Where the power is held, goals of the structure, and the reasons for where the power is held and the goals.
The purpose of this government is to achieve organization and initiative within the group. Its roles will include, but not be limited to… -setting guidelines/rules/standards (including keeping everything safe and legal) -organizing activities -promoting camaraderie/ peace amongst the group members -make sure everyone has fun/feels supported/belonging
This government is not a controlling entity; it will give the group more organization and direct and allow the group to achiever bigger, better things. Basically, they make things happen.

Leadership Positions (Max of Six, Minimum of Two): Because the group is smaller, though this may change in time, there cannot be too many leadership positions nor can there be too few. Please list any positions that your structure will implement, along with their descriptions and roles and duties. Title: Description:
Leaders: =President: -Task delegation -Takes an a initiatory role -Figurehead -Facilitator -Big picture- should make sure everything else is running smoothly
=Vice President: -Helps/coordinates with the President to perform all of the same tasks

Council of representives: =Secretary: -take minutes at any meetings -keep copies of all documents, forms, etc. -Fundraising
=Activities coordinator: - gets in contact with the venues with which we wish to arrange meets. -finds out what people want/like to do
=Internal Relations: -take all internal complaints -peacemaker -brings interpersonal relation problems to the attention of other leader ship
All leadership and council members should help others if it is needed; no one should be left to fulfill their tasks on their own. The vice president or another leadership member may double as another role to create an odd number to make voting easier. For example, perhaps he vice president will take on the role on activities coordinator. However if this conflicts with their current duties, they must delegate the task to another.
Leadership Terms and Power Switching: Each leadership will have term limits. Please list how long the term limits will be for each position and the process to switch the positions. Use a bullet list to represent each separate idea.

Terms are four months in length. Term limits apply to full terms; if a member join the council half-way through a term, that term does not count towards their limit.
Leaders: -Term limit is three terms, whether consecutive or not. -determined by an election involving the whole group- either at a meet or an anonymous online poll.
Council: -Two consecutive terms at a time, two terms per post, but may serve up to four terms. (by having a different term limit, this prevents a total leadership turnover if everyone maxes out their term limits- obviously not always, but it will help.) -those who wish to participate on the council must submit a form or application of some sort, at which time the leadership will determine those who will fill the role. As these are positions made to aid the leaders in fulfilling all necessary tasks, the leaders will choose these partners. Leaders may elect to hold a poll anyway.
There may be an overlap as new leadership cycles in, in order to train in new leadership.

Leadership Conflict of Interest Rules: There will arise a time where elected leaders will have conflicts of interest. Please list the process on how, when these arise, the problem will be dealt with. Use a bullet list to represent each separate idea.

Leaders may elect to abstain from a vote should they feel as though their bias is too strong and may affect the group negatively. The council may elect to call in another member to take the absent voter’s place or to simply continue without another person.
If others notice the conflict of interest and the leader refuses to step down, the council may take a vote to omit this person from the decision-making process; the vote must carry majority to accomplish this. Tact and care should be used in order to prevent conflict within leadership.

The Rights of the Community (Bill of Rights): Each community needs their rights. These can include the power to impeach current leadership, have a community voting on something leadership usually decides on their own, etc. Please list the rights of the community here, using bullet lists. Please provide sufficient detail of those rights.

Communities wishing for change that cannot be achieved simply by requesting an audience with leadership may petition for such and those signing the petition must number at least twelve.
Rights of the community include: -impeachment of leadership on reasonable grounds, including but not limited to various sorts of misconduct and failure to fulfill their role -having a say in decisions; leadership should communicate to inform the community of any and all things, within reason (especially as this is a fairly quickly cycling gov’t, there really isn’t anything to hide anyway) -nominating and electing leaders and representatives.
Amendments & Rules: Each governmental structure needs rules to adhere by; these rules will be applied to all members, including leadership. Please, with a bullet list, describe each rule. Please provide sufficient detail of those rights.

-All decisions will be made in the best interest and safety of the group as a whole. -All state, local and facility rules and laws must be obeyed at all times. -Respect all members/ do not start fights, arguments, contention. Slander will not be tolerated. If there is a problem, it will be brought to the attention of internal relations and it will be dealt with appropriately -This group does not nor will have any religious or political affiliations -In extreme cases, members may be suspended from attending meets and participating in online discussion; grounds and consequences to be decided upon on a case-to-case basis -No minors will be permitted to attend meets --Specific events maybe organized in which minors may attend with parental permission --Under no circumstances will said minors be given a ride by another member; they must have a ride with a family member. --Absolutely no minors under 16 at all.
Other Items: If there are any other items that do not belong in any other field, please place them here. Again, please provide information within a bullet list.

Signature: _Risha Kapoor____ Date: _5/9/11_____ Current Leadership Signatures On the chance that the structure of the group will change, each current leadership member will sign off on it, enacting its passage and starting the implementing phase.
Leadership 1 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________ Leadership 2 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________ Leadership 3 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________ Leadership 4 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________ Leadership 5 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________ Leadership 6 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________"

Elias decided that since not enough proposal's were submitted, the group would delay in getting a government set up until He, Roochi and Scha could make an all new proposal, combining the one that had been submitted. The admins have repeatedly promised to get have it done by a certain date, but use the excuse, 'other, more important things had to be done first' but Admin Elias Saphir posted this in response to an inquiry by member Cassiopia Cougar about the status of the government: "It is being worked on. Our goal is to finish it before the next meet.[reffering to the July 13th 2011 Potluck meet)

== Membership ==
Everyone is welcome to join the Facebook group and attend the meets (see section minors). The group has many things for people to enjoy, and should be fun for anyone who chooses to attend.

Creators:
*[[Kazul]]
*[[Cain Dalton]]

Current Moderators ~ As of July 2011
*[[RooChi Lexico]]
*[[Elias Saphir]]
*[[Scha Darkart]]

Previous moderators:
*[[Kazul]]
*[[Cain Dalton]]
*[[Frostee Fox]]

== Policy on Minors ==
As of right now, the minimum age to be on the Facebook group is thirteen and the minimum age to attend the group meets is sixteen; however, individuals under the age of eighteen MUST be accompanied by an adult to the meets which will stay with them through the entire meet. If the minor does not have a parent or legal guardian to accompany them at the meet, then they may not attend the meet. This policy is subject to change.

== Activities ==
The Utah Furries organizes different meets each month. They range from BBQs to performing in a parade. These meets aim more to just make idle conversation, but for other furries really get to know other furries and to better the community in general (both furry and not). The meets, with the exception of the very first meet at Denny's, have all been focused on Fursuiter, leaving everyone else to stand back and watch. For this reason, The admins require every suiter is assigned 2 and sometimes 3 handelers at every meet.

So far, the group has participated in the following activities: [[Strut your Mutt 2011]], [[SLC CureSearch Walk]]

== Conventions ==
Here is the list of conventions that will have a wide presence from the group.

*'''[[Rocky Mountain Fur Con]] 2011''':
**'''Notable Attendees''':
***'''[[RooChi Lexico]]''':
***'''[[Elias Saphir]]''':
***'''[[Evauk]]''':

*'''[[Rainfurrest]] 2011''':
**'''Notable Attendees''':
***'''[[Kazul]]''':
***'''[[Frostee Fox]]''':
***'''[[YuurYuu]]''':

== Media ==
So far the Utah Furries group doesn't have a notable media presence, though it is growing. However, current admin [[Elias Saphir]] has been putting together videos that give an overview of each meetups.

*'''[[Elias Saphir]] Videos''':
**'''February 12th Denny's Meet''': http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ryAEbG0CWGs
**'''March 12th BBQ Meet''': http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DwRuOPaRIsc
**'''April 9th Nickel City Meet''': http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=29KbC22R9Mk
**'''May 4th Trafalga Meet''': http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A9HAIcf472I
**'''Strut your Mutt Meet''': http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NjoMnHC3iyg

== Other Outlets==
*'''Links'''
**'''Twitter''': http://twitter.com/#!/UtahSt_Furries
**'''UStream''': http://www.ustream.tv/channel/utah-furries
**'''Email''': utah.furries@gmail.com
**'''Phone''': 1-801-200-FURS

[[Category:Regional groups]]
[[Category:Utah]]

Utah Furries

2011-07-13T21:05:11Z

LeDutch: /* Membership */

[[File:utah_furries_logo.jpg|right]]
'''Utah Furries''' is the second largest furry meet up group in Utah centered in [[wikipedia:Orem,_Utah|Orem, Utah]]. The group's members range across the entire state to a few members appearing from states such as [[wikipedia:Idaho|Idaho]] and [[wikipedia:Wyoming|Wyoming]].

The group meets the second Saturday of every month participating in various activities such as: a BBQ, Nickel City, Trafalga, and performing in the Orem Summerfest Parade.

*'''Links''':
**'''Facebook Group''': http://www.facebook.com/groups/utah.furries?ap=1
**'''Twitter''': http://twitter.com/#!/UtahSt_Furries

== History ==
The Utah Furries group was started in 2008 two high school friends, a Gryphon named Kazul, and a Sumatran White Tiger Named Cain. Both the Creators left the group for their own reasons when the group had not seen additional members for 5 months. In their absence, the group grew a little, but since both admins had left, Facebook automatically had this message on the group 'This group has no admins.' with a link anyone could click to become admin. new active member Elias Saphir stepped up and assumed the void Administrator position.

After a short time, Kazul and Cain decided to come back and continue their adminship. The group got larger, Cain left, and then Frostee Fox was introduced into the adminship. It was at this point, nearing one hundred members on the Facebook group, that some of the plans of the members and some of the admins decided that there should there should be an official group meetup. Thus, on February 12th 2011, the first Utah Furries group meet occurred a Denny's with an attendance of about twenty people. It was decided to continue on with the meets.

During the second meet, an adminship of Elias Saphir, Kazul, and Frostee Fox was created and RooChi Lexico and Scha Darkart were assigned as moderators. May 2011 Kazul and Frostee stepped down from leadership after, "we felt as though we were being forced out by those both in power, and those who wanted it", and RooChi and Scha were introduced as admins. Frostee later told Elias, "It was sad to leave leadership, but I did it to reduce the amount of drama that was beginning in the group, and because the group was inevitably going to become a defacto arm of the UFF"

The group goals have consisted of creating a furry presence in the general Utah community and fulfilling service opportunities within the community. The benefits of this have already been seen by being asked to entertain children at the SLC CureSearch Walk in July 2011, after one of the organizers of the event saw the Utah Furries marching in the 2011 Orem City Summerfest Parade in June of 2011.

== Structure ==
As of yet, an official group structure has not been established, and dicussions around this topic have been the source of a lot of drama in the group. Elias Saphir was the first one to suggest making a government, which he did at the second meeting the group ever had in march 12th, the potluck/BBQ in the park. At the Time the other Admins, Frostee Fox and Kazul, did not see a reason for a government but went along with it anyways.

back in April of 2011, the admins had a period of time that people could submit Governmental Structure Proposals. The Proposals had to include the following: the Purpose of the Structure, Leadership Positions, Leadership Terms and Power Switching, Leadership Conflict of Interest Rules, The Rights of the Community (Bill of Rights), and Amendments & Rules. Only 3 Proposals were submitted, two versions were submitted by admin Elias Saphir (one and then a sightly modified upgraded version) and one by member Thay Rustback. Here is Elias's 2nd version and Thay's Proposal:

"Utah Valley Furries Governmental Structure Proposal
Proposal By: Austin Clift Based On: N/A Date Created: April 14, 2011 Date Submitted: April 14, 2011

Purpose of the Structure: Each governmental structure holds a distinct purpose. Some may have a purpose of giving the power over to its’ citizens so they have complete control, others will give all of the power to the leadership. Please describe in the box below what you hope to achieve within the structure including, but not limited to: Where the power is held, goals of the structure, and the reasons for where the power is held and the goals. The purpose of this structure is to give sufficient power to the leadership positions, but still give a good amount of control to the community. The goals are as follows: Cut down on out of group and inner group drama with specialized positions. Have a personal that has the highest authority so, if the leadership cannot create a winning vote (a tie), that highest authority will be the final say on the issue. Of course only after both sides make their argument for what they believe should happen.

The reasons for having a split power between leadership and the community and the goals are as follows: If the community has no power it will up-rise (create drama) and undermine the specialized positions to rid drama. No drama is always good, no one can argue with that. If ties are continuous, the leadership will become useless and unable to make choices for the better of the group.

Leadership Positions (Max of Six, Minimum of Two): Because the group is smaller, though this may change in time, there cannot be too many leadership positions nor can there be too few. Please list any positions that your structure will implement, along with their descriptions and roles and duties. Title: Description: President This individual holds the highest power, having the final say on issues that may hold up the system; however, the power this individual holds is not much higher than the Vice Presidents.
This individual holds the following powers and duties: If there is any tie within the group he/she will have the final say after the two sides demonstrate their point. He/she will be a part of the voting committee of any issues and will assign the dates and times of voting events (No one can act as proxy for this individual). Assign tasks to any of the moderators and the Vice Presidents. If a VP is not doing his/her job, the President shall assume their responsibilities. If a VP is not doing his/her job, the President can open a community vote that can impeach a VP and Moderator. Vice President 1 This individual holds the second highest power, having the capability to vote in leadership-only voting committees.
This individual holds the following powers and duties: Vote and communicate his/her ideas during voting meets. He/she will be a part of the voting committee and is essential for its occurrence. If he/she cannot attend the meeting, he/she can find any of the three moderators to act as the Vice President in proxy (The Moderator must speak the Vice Presidents thoughts and feelings, even if the Moderator acting as proxy has differing thoughts and feelings.) A Moderator acting as a proxy cannot vote as a Moderator when there is a voting meeting that will include moderators. Assigns tasks to Moderator 1 and Domestic Issues Moderator. If Moderator 1 is not doing his/her job, the VP1 assumes the responsibility. Accept assignments from President. Vice President 2 This individual holds the second highest power, having the capability to vote in leadership-only voting committees.
This individual holds the following powers and duties: Vote and communicate his/her ideas during voting meets. He/she will be a part of the voting committee and is essential for its occurrence. If he/she cannot attend the meeting, he/she can find any of the three moderators to act as the Vice President in proxy (The Moderator must speak the Vice Presidents thoughts and feelings, even if the Moderator acting as proxy has differing thoughts and feelings.) A Moderator acting as a proxy cannot vote as a Moderator when there is a voting meeting that will include moderators. Assigns tasks to Moderator 2 and Domestic Issues Moderator. If Moderator 2 is not doing his/her job, the VP2 assumes the responsibility. Accepts assignments from President. Moderator 1 This individual holds the third highest power, having the capability to vote in some leadership-only voting committees.
This individual holds the following powers and duties: Vote and communicate his/her ideas during voting meets. Voting attendance while not necessary is important and he/she should attend to each meeting where applicable; however, a community member can act as a proxy with an approval of a VP or President. Attends to out-of group affairs, such as visiting local business to see if they would be okay with fursuiting (tails, ears, full suits, half suits, etc.) Please note: this individual MUST visit the business and show them the portfolio of pictures of past events. Accepting assignments from VP1. Moderator 2 This individual holds the third highest power, having the capability to vote in some leadership-only voting committees.
This individual holds the following powers and duties: Vote and communicate his/her ideas during voting meets. Voting attendance while not necessary is important and he/she should attend to each meeting where applicable; however, a community member can act as a proxy with an approval of a VP or President. Attends to inner-group affairs such as, but not limited to: Drama elimination Birthday announcements Notifying minors when they can/not attend Making sure when minors do attend they follow the necessary precautions Accepting assignments from VP2. Domestic Issues Moderator This individual holds the fourth highest power, not being able to vote and accepting assignments from the Moderators and VP (if applicable).
This individual holds the following powers and duties: Accept assignments from both VPs and Moderators. Deal with drama within the group. (This is essentially the purpose of this leadership’s position.)

Leadership Terms and Power Switching: Each leadership will have term limits. Please list how long the term limits will be for each position and the process to switch the positions. Use a bullet list to represent each separate idea. Each leadership position has a three term limit. After an individual has reached his/her limit he/she has two choices. Drop any leadership responsibilities and become a part of the normal community. Go after another leadership position by opening a community vote. If the person is voted in another leadership position with an 80% majority, he/she will assume that responsibility. (The President does not have this option) Each term is four months. A person may again go after a leadership position after three cycles (new people). After each term the following will occur: A community meeting will be held, and individuals who wish to have their hand at a leadership role will present why they should assume that role. After this, people with objections will speak up. After this, there will be a vote where simple majority is victor. Voting will be a private matter. A person will write his/her vote on a piece of paper, and put it in a box. The box will be then shaken up and the votes will be tallied. If the existing leader obtains a majority, he/she will assume the responsibilities and powers for another term. Only people in attendance of the voting meeting may vote.

Leadership Conflict of Interest Rules: There will arise a time where elected leaders will have conflicts of interest. Please list the process on how, when these arise, the problem will be dealt with. Use a bullet list to represent each separate idea. If 40% of the community agrees that there is a conflict of interest, they may open up a voting forum and do the following: Present their case in front of the leadership committee and the community. Have votes cast (In the same way term voting occurs). If the leader is impeached, the roles of that person will be shifted up to the person of higher power until a voting meeting can occur. Due to couples being more inclined to agree on the same thing, no two people in a relationship may become leaders unless: The community votes and a high majority (70%) see no problem with it. The relationship happens after the leaders are voted in.

The Rights of the Community (Bill of Rights): Each community needs their rights. These can include the power to impeach current leadership, have a community voting on something leadership usually decides on their own, etc. Please list the rights of the community here, using bullet lists. Please provide sufficient detail of those rights. Community members may impeach leaders that they believe that are not the best for the group. Community members may show up at leadership-only voting forums and argue for/against what is being discussed. Community members have the freedom of speech, excluding: Items that will create drama. If an individual has a problem with another, he/she should go directly to that individual, with a moderator, and talk it out; not talk to anyone he/she sees. Community members are free to argue and debate with other members as long as: It does not occur during a meet. It does not occur on any of our website pages. It does not create tension that will ruin an individual’s fun at the meet. (In other words, if this argument will cause a person to refuse to show up at the meets, then do not argue to that degree.)

Amendments & Rules: Each governmental structure needs rules to adhere by; these rules will be applied to all members, including leadership. Please, with a bullet list, describe each rule. Please provide sufficient detail of those rights. There will be no debating and/or arguing the following on anything related to the meet: Politics Religion You can debate the rules of the group WITHIN the PROPER forum. This group is for individuals eighteen or older. If the leadership sees that an event is fit for a minor to attend, then the minor will need to wear a red wrist band and be accompanied by a guardian or parent. Minors under the age of sixteen are not permitted, no exceptions.

Other Items: If there are any other items that do not belong in any other field, please place them here. Again, please provide information within a bullet list. There will be an anti-drama forum once every two months. If you have a drama/tension with another individual, then bring them here and talk about it in the presence of moderators that will make sure the talking does not get to heated and/or hurtful. There shall be a leadership forum to talk about the progress of the group (leaders only) and the steps that should be taken to further it.

Signature: Austin Clift Date: April 14, 2011 Current Leadership Signatures On the chance that your structure proposal is chosen, each current leadership member will sign off on it, enacting its passage and starting the implementing phase.
Leadership 1 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________ Leadership 2 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________ Leadership 3 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________ Leadership 4 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________ Leadership 6 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________ Leadership 6 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________"

"Utah Valley Furries Governmental Structure Proposal

Proposal By: ______Thay/Risha________ Based On: ________________ Date Created: ______5/8/11_______ Date Submitted: ____5/9/11________

Purpose of the Structure: Each governmental structure holds a distinct purpose. Some may have a purpose of giving the power over to its’ citizens so they have complete control, others will give all of the power to the leadership. Please describe in the box below what you hope to achieve within the structure including, but not limited to: Where the power is held, goals of the structure, and the reasons for where the power is held and the goals.
The purpose of this government is to achieve organization and initiative within the group. Its roles will include, but not be limited to… -setting guidelines/rules/standards (including keeping everything safe and legal) -organizing activities -promoting camaraderie/ peace amongst the group members -make sure everyone has fun/feels supported/belonging
This government is not a controlling entity; it will give the group more organization and direct and allow the group to achiever bigger, better things. Basically, they make things happen.

Leadership Positions (Max of Six, Minimum of Two): Because the group is smaller, though this may change in time, there cannot be too many leadership positions nor can there be too few. Please list any positions that your structure will implement, along with their descriptions and roles and duties. Title: Description:
Leaders: =President: -Task delegation -Takes an a initiatory role -Figurehead -Facilitator -Big picture- should make sure everything else is running smoothly
=Vice President: -Helps/coordinates with the President to perform all of the same tasks

Council of representives: =Secretary: -take minutes at any meetings -keep copies of all documents, forms, etc. -Fundraising
=Activities coordinator: - gets in contact with the venues with which we wish to arrange meets. -finds out what people want/like to do
=Internal Relations: -take all internal complaints -peacemaker -brings interpersonal relation problems to the attention of other leader ship
All leadership and council members should help others if it is needed; no one should be left to fulfill their tasks on their own. The vice president or another leadership member may double as another role to create an odd number to make voting easier. For example, perhaps he vice president will take on the role on activities coordinator. However if this conflicts with their current duties, they must delegate the task to another.
Leadership Terms and Power Switching: Each leadership will have term limits. Please list how long the term limits will be for each position and the process to switch the positions. Use a bullet list to represent each separate idea.

Terms are four months in length. Term limits apply to full terms; if a member join the council half-way through a term, that term does not count towards their limit.
Leaders: -Term limit is three terms, whether consecutive or not. -determined by an election involving the whole group- either at a meet or an anonymous online poll.
Council: -Two consecutive terms at a time, two terms per post, but may serve up to four terms. (by having a different term limit, this prevents a total leadership turnover if everyone maxes out their term limits- obviously not always, but it will help.) -those who wish to participate on the council must submit a form or application of some sort, at which time the leadership will determine those who will fill the role. As these are positions made to aid the leaders in fulfilling all necessary tasks, the leaders will choose these partners. Leaders may elect to hold a poll anyway.
There may be an overlap as new leadership cycles in, in order to train in new leadership.

Leadership Conflict of Interest Rules: There will arise a time where elected leaders will have conflicts of interest. Please list the process on how, when these arise, the problem will be dealt with. Use a bullet list to represent each separate idea.

Leaders may elect to abstain from a vote should they feel as though their bias is too strong and may affect the group negatively. The council may elect to call in another member to take the absent voter’s place or to simply continue without another person.
If others notice the conflict of interest and the leader refuses to step down, the council may take a vote to omit this person from the decision-making process; the vote must carry majority to accomplish this. Tact and care should be used in order to prevent conflict within leadership.

The Rights of the Community (Bill of Rights): Each community needs their rights. These can include the power to impeach current leadership, have a community voting on something leadership usually decides on their own, etc. Please list the rights of the community here, using bullet lists. Please provide sufficient detail of those rights.

Communities wishing for change that cannot be achieved simply by requesting an audience with leadership may petition for such and those signing the petition must number at least twelve.
Rights of the community include: -impeachment of leadership on reasonable grounds, including but not limited to various sorts of misconduct and failure to fulfill their role -having a say in decisions; leadership should communicate to inform the community of any and all things, within reason (especially as this is a fairly quickly cycling gov’t, there really isn’t anything to hide anyway) -nominating and electing leaders and representatives.
Amendments & Rules: Each governmental structure needs rules to adhere by; these rules will be applied to all members, including leadership. Please, with a bullet list, describe each rule. Please provide sufficient detail of those rights.

-All decisions will be made in the best interest and safety of the group as a whole. -All state, local and facility rules and laws must be obeyed at all times. -Respect all members/ do not start fights, arguments, contention. Slander will not be tolerated. If there is a problem, it will be brought to the attention of internal relations and it will be dealt with appropriately -This group does not nor will have any religious or political affiliations -In extreme cases, members may be suspended from attending meets and participating in online discussion; grounds and consequences to be decided upon on a case-to-case basis -No minors will be permitted to attend meets --Specific events maybe organized in which minors may attend with parental permission --Under no circumstances will said minors be given a ride by another member; they must have a ride with a family member. --Absolutely no minors under 16 at all.
Other Items: If there are any other items that do not belong in any other field, please place them here. Again, please provide information within a bullet list.

Signature: _Risha Kapoor____ Date: _5/9/11_____ Current Leadership Signatures On the chance that the structure of the group will change, each current leadership member will sign off on it, enacting its passage and starting the implementing phase.
Leadership 1 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________ Leadership 2 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________ Leadership 3 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________ Leadership 4 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________ Leadership 5 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________ Leadership 6 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________"

Elias decided that since not enough proposal's were submitted, the group would delay in getting a government set up until He, Roochi and Scha could make an all new proposal, combining the one that had been submitted. The admins have repeatedly promised to get have it done by a certain date, but use the excuse, 'other, more important things had to be done first' but Admin Elias Saphir posted this in response to an inquiry by member Cassiopia Cougar about the status of the government: "It is being worked on. Our goal is to finish it before the next meet.[reffering to the July 13th 2011 Potluck meet)

== Membership ==
Everyone is welcome to join the Facebook group and attend the meets (see section minors). The group has many things for people to enjoy, and should be fun for anyone who chooses to attend.

Creators:
*[[Kazul]]
*[[Cain Dalton]]

Current Moderators ~ As of July 2011
*[[RooChi Lexico]]
*[[Elias Saphir]]
*[[Scha Darkart]]

Previous moderators:
*[[Kazul]]
*[[Frostee Fox]]

== Policy on Minors ==
As of right now, the minimum age to be on the Facebook group is thirteen and the minimum age to attend the group meets is sixteen; however, individuals under the age of eighteen MUST be accompanied by an adult to the meets which will stay with them through the entire meet. If the minor does not have a parent or legal guardian to accompany them at the meet, then they may not attend the meet. This policy is subject to change.

== Activities ==
The Utah Furries organizes different meets each month. They range from BBQs to performing in a parade. These meets aim more to just make idle conversation, but for other furries really get to know other furries and to better the community in general (both furry and not). The meets, with the exception of the very first meet at Denny's, have all been focused on Fursuiter, leaving everyone else to stand back and watch. For this reason, The admins require every suiter is assigned 2 and sometimes 3 handelers at every meet.

So far, the group has participated in the following activities: [[Strut your Mutt 2011]], [[SLC CureSearch Walk]]

== Conventions ==
Here is the list of conventions that will have a wide presence from the group.

*'''[[Rocky Mountain Fur Con]] 2011''':
**'''Notable Attendees''':
***'''[[RooChi Lexico]]''':
***'''[[Elias Saphir]]''':
***'''[[Evauk]]''':

*'''[[Rainfurrest]] 2011''':
**'''Notable Attendees''':
***'''[[Kazul]]''':
***'''[[Frostee Fox]]''':
***'''[[YuurYuu]]''':

== Media ==
So far the Utah Furries group doesn't have a notable media presence, though it is growing. However, current admin [[Elias Saphir]] has been putting together videos that give an overview of each meetups.

*'''[[Elias Saphir]] Videos''':
**'''February 12th Denny's Meet''': http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ryAEbG0CWGs
**'''March 12th BBQ Meet''': http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DwRuOPaRIsc
**'''April 9th Nickel City Meet''': http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=29KbC22R9Mk
**'''May 4th Trafalga Meet''': http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A9HAIcf472I
**'''Strut your Mutt Meet''': http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NjoMnHC3iyg

== Other Outlets==
*'''Links'''
**'''Twitter''': http://twitter.com/#!/UtahSt_Furries
**'''UStream''': http://www.ustream.tv/channel/utah-furries
**'''Email''': utah.furries@gmail.com
**'''Phone''': 1-801-200-FURS

[[Category:Regional groups]]
[[Category:Utah]]

Utah Furries

2011-07-13T21:03:48Z

LeDutch: /* Structure */

[[File:utah_furries_logo.jpg|right]]
'''Utah Furries''' is the second largest furry meet up group in Utah centered in [[wikipedia:Orem,_Utah|Orem, Utah]]. The group's members range across the entire state to a few members appearing from states such as [[wikipedia:Idaho|Idaho]] and [[wikipedia:Wyoming|Wyoming]].

The group meets the second Saturday of every month participating in various activities such as: a BBQ, Nickel City, Trafalga, and performing in the Orem Summerfest Parade.

*'''Links''':
**'''Facebook Group''': http://www.facebook.com/groups/utah.furries?ap=1
**'''Twitter''': http://twitter.com/#!/UtahSt_Furries

== History ==
The Utah Furries group was started in 2008 two high school friends, a Gryphon named Kazul, and a Sumatran White Tiger Named Cain. Both the Creators left the group for their own reasons when the group had not seen additional members for 5 months. In their absence, the group grew a little, but since both admins had left, Facebook automatically had this message on the group 'This group has no admins.' with a link anyone could click to become admin. new active member Elias Saphir stepped up and assumed the void Administrator position.

After a short time, Kazul and Cain decided to come back and continue their adminship. The group got larger, Cain left, and then Frostee Fox was introduced into the adminship. It was at this point, nearing one hundred members on the Facebook group, that some of the plans of the members and some of the admins decided that there should there should be an official group meetup. Thus, on February 12th 2011, the first Utah Furries group meet occurred a Denny's with an attendance of about twenty people. It was decided to continue on with the meets.

During the second meet, an adminship of Elias Saphir, Kazul, and Frostee Fox was created and RooChi Lexico and Scha Darkart were assigned as moderators. May 2011 Kazul and Frostee stepped down from leadership after, "we felt as though we were being forced out by those both in power, and those who wanted it", and RooChi and Scha were introduced as admins. Frostee later told Elias, "It was sad to leave leadership, but I did it to reduce the amount of drama that was beginning in the group, and because the group was inevitably going to become a defacto arm of the UFF"

The group goals have consisted of creating a furry presence in the general Utah community and fulfilling service opportunities within the community. The benefits of this have already been seen by being asked to entertain children at the SLC CureSearch Walk in July 2011, after one of the organizers of the event saw the Utah Furries marching in the 2011 Orem City Summerfest Parade in June of 2011.

== Structure ==
As of yet, an official group structure has not been established, and dicussions around this topic have been the source of a lot of drama in the group. Elias Saphir was the first one to suggest making a government, which he did at the second meeting the group ever had in march 12th, the potluck/BBQ in the park. At the Time the other Admins, Frostee Fox and Kazul, did not see a reason for a government but went along with it anyways.

back in April of 2011, the admins had a period of time that people could submit Governmental Structure Proposals. The Proposals had to include the following: the Purpose of the Structure, Leadership Positions, Leadership Terms and Power Switching, Leadership Conflict of Interest Rules, The Rights of the Community (Bill of Rights), and Amendments & Rules. Only 3 Proposals were submitted, two versions were submitted by admin Elias Saphir (one and then a sightly modified upgraded version) and one by member Thay Rustback. Here is Elias's 2nd version and Thay's Proposal:

"Utah Valley Furries Governmental Structure Proposal
Proposal By: Austin Clift Based On: N/A Date Created: April 14, 2011 Date Submitted: April 14, 2011

Purpose of the Structure: Each governmental structure holds a distinct purpose. Some may have a purpose of giving the power over to its’ citizens so they have complete control, others will give all of the power to the leadership. Please describe in the box below what you hope to achieve within the structure including, but not limited to: Where the power is held, goals of the structure, and the reasons for where the power is held and the goals. The purpose of this structure is to give sufficient power to the leadership positions, but still give a good amount of control to the community. The goals are as follows: Cut down on out of group and inner group drama with specialized positions. Have a personal that has the highest authority so, if the leadership cannot create a winning vote (a tie), that highest authority will be the final say on the issue. Of course only after both sides make their argument for what they believe should happen.

The reasons for having a split power between leadership and the community and the goals are as follows: If the community has no power it will up-rise (create drama) and undermine the specialized positions to rid drama. No drama is always good, no one can argue with that. If ties are continuous, the leadership will become useless and unable to make choices for the better of the group.

Leadership Positions (Max of Six, Minimum of Two): Because the group is smaller, though this may change in time, there cannot be too many leadership positions nor can there be too few. Please list any positions that your structure will implement, along with their descriptions and roles and duties. Title: Description: President This individual holds the highest power, having the final say on issues that may hold up the system; however, the power this individual holds is not much higher than the Vice Presidents.
This individual holds the following powers and duties: If there is any tie within the group he/she will have the final say after the two sides demonstrate their point. He/she will be a part of the voting committee of any issues and will assign the dates and times of voting events (No one can act as proxy for this individual). Assign tasks to any of the moderators and the Vice Presidents. If a VP is not doing his/her job, the President shall assume their responsibilities. If a VP is not doing his/her job, the President can open a community vote that can impeach a VP and Moderator. Vice President 1 This individual holds the second highest power, having the capability to vote in leadership-only voting committees.
This individual holds the following powers and duties: Vote and communicate his/her ideas during voting meets. He/she will be a part of the voting committee and is essential for its occurrence. If he/she cannot attend the meeting, he/she can find any of the three moderators to act as the Vice President in proxy (The Moderator must speak the Vice Presidents thoughts and feelings, even if the Moderator acting as proxy has differing thoughts and feelings.) A Moderator acting as a proxy cannot vote as a Moderator when there is a voting meeting that will include moderators. Assigns tasks to Moderator 1 and Domestic Issues Moderator. If Moderator 1 is not doing his/her job, the VP1 assumes the responsibility. Accept assignments from President. Vice President 2 This individual holds the second highest power, having the capability to vote in leadership-only voting committees.
This individual holds the following powers and duties: Vote and communicate his/her ideas during voting meets. He/she will be a part of the voting committee and is essential for its occurrence. If he/she cannot attend the meeting, he/she can find any of the three moderators to act as the Vice President in proxy (The Moderator must speak the Vice Presidents thoughts and feelings, even if the Moderator acting as proxy has differing thoughts and feelings.) A Moderator acting as a proxy cannot vote as a Moderator when there is a voting meeting that will include moderators. Assigns tasks to Moderator 2 and Domestic Issues Moderator. If Moderator 2 is not doing his/her job, the VP2 assumes the responsibility. Accepts assignments from President. Moderator 1 This individual holds the third highest power, having the capability to vote in some leadership-only voting committees.
This individual holds the following powers and duties: Vote and communicate his/her ideas during voting meets. Voting attendance while not necessary is important and he/she should attend to each meeting where applicable; however, a community member can act as a proxy with an approval of a VP or President. Attends to out-of group affairs, such as visiting local business to see if they would be okay with fursuiting (tails, ears, full suits, half suits, etc.) Please note: this individual MUST visit the business and show them the portfolio of pictures of past events. Accepting assignments from VP1. Moderator 2 This individual holds the third highest power, having the capability to vote in some leadership-only voting committees.
This individual holds the following powers and duties: Vote and communicate his/her ideas during voting meets. Voting attendance while not necessary is important and he/she should attend to each meeting where applicable; however, a community member can act as a proxy with an approval of a VP or President. Attends to inner-group affairs such as, but not limited to: Drama elimination Birthday announcements Notifying minors when they can/not attend Making sure when minors do attend they follow the necessary precautions Accepting assignments from VP2. Domestic Issues Moderator This individual holds the fourth highest power, not being able to vote and accepting assignments from the Moderators and VP (if applicable).
This individual holds the following powers and duties: Accept assignments from both VPs and Moderators. Deal with drama within the group. (This is essentially the purpose of this leadership’s position.)

Leadership Terms and Power Switching: Each leadership will have term limits. Please list how long the term limits will be for each position and the process to switch the positions. Use a bullet list to represent each separate idea. Each leadership position has a three term limit. After an individual has reached his/her limit he/she has two choices. Drop any leadership responsibilities and become a part of the normal community. Go after another leadership position by opening a community vote. If the person is voted in another leadership position with an 80% majority, he/she will assume that responsibility. (The President does not have this option) Each term is four months. A person may again go after a leadership position after three cycles (new people). After each term the following will occur: A community meeting will be held, and individuals who wish to have their hand at a leadership role will present why they should assume that role. After this, people with objections will speak up. After this, there will be a vote where simple majority is victor. Voting will be a private matter. A person will write his/her vote on a piece of paper, and put it in a box. The box will be then shaken up and the votes will be tallied. If the existing leader obtains a majority, he/she will assume the responsibilities and powers for another term. Only people in attendance of the voting meeting may vote.

Leadership Conflict of Interest Rules: There will arise a time where elected leaders will have conflicts of interest. Please list the process on how, when these arise, the problem will be dealt with. Use a bullet list to represent each separate idea. If 40% of the community agrees that there is a conflict of interest, they may open up a voting forum and do the following: Present their case in front of the leadership committee and the community. Have votes cast (In the same way term voting occurs). If the leader is impeached, the roles of that person will be shifted up to the person of higher power until a voting meeting can occur. Due to couples being more inclined to agree on the same thing, no two people in a relationship may become leaders unless: The community votes and a high majority (70%) see no problem with it. The relationship happens after the leaders are voted in.

The Rights of the Community (Bill of Rights): Each community needs their rights. These can include the power to impeach current leadership, have a community voting on something leadership usually decides on their own, etc. Please list the rights of the community here, using bullet lists. Please provide sufficient detail of those rights. Community members may impeach leaders that they believe that are not the best for the group. Community members may show up at leadership-only voting forums and argue for/against what is being discussed. Community members have the freedom of speech, excluding: Items that will create drama. If an individual has a problem with another, he/she should go directly to that individual, with a moderator, and talk it out; not talk to anyone he/she sees. Community members are free to argue and debate with other members as long as: It does not occur during a meet. It does not occur on any of our website pages. It does not create tension that will ruin an individual’s fun at the meet. (In other words, if this argument will cause a person to refuse to show up at the meets, then do not argue to that degree.)

Amendments & Rules: Each governmental structure needs rules to adhere by; these rules will be applied to all members, including leadership. Please, with a bullet list, describe each rule. Please provide sufficient detail of those rights. There will be no debating and/or arguing the following on anything related to the meet: Politics Religion You can debate the rules of the group WITHIN the PROPER forum. This group is for individuals eighteen or older. If the leadership sees that an event is fit for a minor to attend, then the minor will need to wear a red wrist band and be accompanied by a guardian or parent. Minors under the age of sixteen are not permitted, no exceptions.

Other Items: If there are any other items that do not belong in any other field, please place them here. Again, please provide information within a bullet list. There will be an anti-drama forum once every two months. If you have a drama/tension with another individual, then bring them here and talk about it in the presence of moderators that will make sure the talking does not get to heated and/or hurtful. There shall be a leadership forum to talk about the progress of the group (leaders only) and the steps that should be taken to further it.

Signature: Austin Clift Date: April 14, 2011 Current Leadership Signatures On the chance that your structure proposal is chosen, each current leadership member will sign off on it, enacting its passage and starting the implementing phase.
Leadership 1 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________ Leadership 2 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________ Leadership 3 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________ Leadership 4 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________ Leadership 6 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________ Leadership 6 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________"

"Utah Valley Furries Governmental Structure Proposal

Proposal By: ______Thay/Risha________ Based On: ________________ Date Created: ______5/8/11_______ Date Submitted: ____5/9/11________

Purpose of the Structure: Each governmental structure holds a distinct purpose. Some may have a purpose of giving the power over to its’ citizens so they have complete control, others will give all of the power to the leadership. Please describe in the box below what you hope to achieve within the structure including, but not limited to: Where the power is held, goals of the structure, and the reasons for where the power is held and the goals.
The purpose of this government is to achieve organization and initiative within the group. Its roles will include, but not be limited to… -setting guidelines/rules/standards (including keeping everything safe and legal) -organizing activities -promoting camaraderie/ peace amongst the group members -make sure everyone has fun/feels supported/belonging
This government is not a controlling entity; it will give the group more organization and direct and allow the group to achiever bigger, better things. Basically, they make things happen.

Leadership Positions (Max of Six, Minimum of Two): Because the group is smaller, though this may change in time, there cannot be too many leadership positions nor can there be too few. Please list any positions that your structure will implement, along with their descriptions and roles and duties. Title: Description:
Leaders: =President: -Task delegation -Takes an a initiatory role -Figurehead -Facilitator -Big picture- should make sure everything else is running smoothly
=Vice President: -Helps/coordinates with the President to perform all of the same tasks

Council of representives: =Secretary: -take minutes at any meetings -keep copies of all documents, forms, etc. -Fundraising
=Activities coordinator: - gets in contact with the venues with which we wish to arrange meets. -finds out what people want/like to do
=Internal Relations: -take all internal complaints -peacemaker -brings interpersonal relation problems to the attention of other leader ship
All leadership and council members should help others if it is needed; no one should be left to fulfill their tasks on their own. The vice president or another leadership member may double as another role to create an odd number to make voting easier. For example, perhaps he vice president will take on the role on activities coordinator. However if this conflicts with their current duties, they must delegate the task to another.
Leadership Terms and Power Switching: Each leadership will have term limits. Please list how long the term limits will be for each position and the process to switch the positions. Use a bullet list to represent each separate idea.

Terms are four months in length. Term limits apply to full terms; if a member join the council half-way through a term, that term does not count towards their limit.
Leaders: -Term limit is three terms, whether consecutive or not. -determined by an election involving the whole group- either at a meet or an anonymous online poll.
Council: -Two consecutive terms at a time, two terms per post, but may serve up to four terms. (by having a different term limit, this prevents a total leadership turnover if everyone maxes out their term limits- obviously not always, but it will help.) -those who wish to participate on the council must submit a form or application of some sort, at which time the leadership will determine those who will fill the role. As these are positions made to aid the leaders in fulfilling all necessary tasks, the leaders will choose these partners. Leaders may elect to hold a poll anyway.
There may be an overlap as new leadership cycles in, in order to train in new leadership.

Leadership Conflict of Interest Rules: There will arise a time where elected leaders will have conflicts of interest. Please list the process on how, when these arise, the problem will be dealt with. Use a bullet list to represent each separate idea.

Leaders may elect to abstain from a vote should they feel as though their bias is too strong and may affect the group negatively. The council may elect to call in another member to take the absent voter’s place or to simply continue without another person.
If others notice the conflict of interest and the leader refuses to step down, the council may take a vote to omit this person from the decision-making process; the vote must carry majority to accomplish this. Tact and care should be used in order to prevent conflict within leadership.

The Rights of the Community (Bill of Rights): Each community needs their rights. These can include the power to impeach current leadership, have a community voting on something leadership usually decides on their own, etc. Please list the rights of the community here, using bullet lists. Please provide sufficient detail of those rights.

Communities wishing for change that cannot be achieved simply by requesting an audience with leadership may petition for such and those signing the petition must number at least twelve.
Rights of the community include: -impeachment of leadership on reasonable grounds, including but not limited to various sorts of misconduct and failure to fulfill their role -having a say in decisions; leadership should communicate to inform the community of any and all things, within reason (especially as this is a fairly quickly cycling gov’t, there really isn’t anything to hide anyway) -nominating and electing leaders and representatives.
Amendments & Rules: Each governmental structure needs rules to adhere by; these rules will be applied to all members, including leadership. Please, with a bullet list, describe each rule. Please provide sufficient detail of those rights.

-All decisions will be made in the best interest and safety of the group as a whole. -All state, local and facility rules and laws must be obeyed at all times. -Respect all members/ do not start fights, arguments, contention. Slander will not be tolerated. If there is a problem, it will be brought to the attention of internal relations and it will be dealt with appropriately -This group does not nor will have any religious or political affiliations -In extreme cases, members may be suspended from attending meets and participating in online discussion; grounds and consequences to be decided upon on a case-to-case basis -No minors will be permitted to attend meets --Specific events maybe organized in which minors may attend with parental permission --Under no circumstances will said minors be given a ride by another member; they must have a ride with a family member. --Absolutely no minors under 16 at all.
Other Items: If there are any other items that do not belong in any other field, please place them here. Again, please provide information within a bullet list.

Signature: _Risha Kapoor____ Date: _5/9/11_____ Current Leadership Signatures On the chance that the structure of the group will change, each current leadership member will sign off on it, enacting its passage and starting the implementing phase.
Leadership 1 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________ Leadership 2 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________ Leadership 3 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________ Leadership 4 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________ Leadership 5 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________ Leadership 6 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________"

Elias decided that since not enough proposal's were submitted, the group would delay in getting a government set up until He, Roochi and Scha could make an all new proposal, combining the one that had been submitted. The admins have repeatedly promised to get have it done by a certain date, but use the excuse, 'other, more important things had to be done first' but Admin Elias Saphir posted this in response to an inquiry by member Cassiopia Cougar about the status of the government: "It is being worked on. Our goal is to finish it before the next meet.[reffering to the July 13th 2011 Potluck meet)

== Membership ==
Everyone is welcome to join the Facebook group and attend the meets (see section minors). The group has many things for people to enjoy, and should be fun for anyone who chooses to attend.

Current Moderators ~ As of July 2011
*[[RooChi Lexico]]
*[[Elias Saphir]]
*[[Scha Darkart]]

Previous moderators:
*[[Kazul]]
*[[Frostee Fox]]

== Policy on Minors ==
As of right now, the minimum age to be on the Facebook group is thirteen and the minimum age to attend the group meets is sixteen; however, individuals under the age of eighteen MUST be accompanied by an adult to the meets which will stay with them through the entire meet. If the minor does not have a parent or legal guardian to accompany them at the meet, then they may not attend the meet. This policy is subject to change.

== Activities ==
The Utah Furries organizes different meets each month. They range from BBQs to performing in a parade. These meets aim more to just make idle conversation, but for other furries really get to know other furries and to better the community in general (both furry and not). The meets, with the exception of the very first meet at Denny's, have all been focused on Fursuiter, leaving everyone else to stand back and watch. For this reason, The admins require every suiter is assigned 2 and sometimes 3 handelers at every meet.

So far, the group has participated in the following activities: [[Strut your Mutt 2011]], [[SLC CureSearch Walk]]

== Conventions ==
Here is the list of conventions that will have a wide presence from the group.

*'''[[Rocky Mountain Fur Con]] 2011''':
**'''Notable Attendees''':
***'''[[RooChi Lexico]]''':
***'''[[Elias Saphir]]''':
***'''[[Evauk]]''':

*'''[[Rainfurrest]] 2011''':
**'''Notable Attendees''':
***'''[[Kazul]]''':
***'''[[Frostee Fox]]''':
***'''[[YuurYuu]]''':

== Media ==
So far the Utah Furries group doesn't have a notable media presence, though it is growing. However, current admin [[Elias Saphir]] has been putting together videos that give an overview of each meetups.

*'''[[Elias Saphir]] Videos''':
**'''February 12th Denny's Meet''': http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ryAEbG0CWGs
**'''March 12th BBQ Meet''': http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DwRuOPaRIsc
**'''April 9th Nickel City Meet''': http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=29KbC22R9Mk
**'''May 4th Trafalga Meet''': http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A9HAIcf472I
**'''Strut your Mutt Meet''': http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NjoMnHC3iyg

== Other Outlets==
*'''Links'''
**'''Twitter''': http://twitter.com/#!/UtahSt_Furries
**'''UStream''': http://www.ustream.tv/channel/utah-furries
**'''Email''': utah.furries@gmail.com
**'''Phone''': 1-801-200-FURS

[[Category:Regional groups]]
[[Category:Utah]]

Utah Furries

2011-07-13T21:03:08Z

LeDutch: /* Structure */

[[File:utah_furries_logo.jpg|right]]
'''Utah Furries''' is the second largest furry meet up group in Utah centered in [[wikipedia:Orem,_Utah|Orem, Utah]]. The group's members range across the entire state to a few members appearing from states such as [[wikipedia:Idaho|Idaho]] and [[wikipedia:Wyoming|Wyoming]].

The group meets the second Saturday of every month participating in various activities such as: a BBQ, Nickel City, Trafalga, and performing in the Orem Summerfest Parade.

*'''Links''':
**'''Facebook Group''': http://www.facebook.com/groups/utah.furries?ap=1
**'''Twitter''': http://twitter.com/#!/UtahSt_Furries

== History ==
The Utah Furries group was started in 2008 two high school friends, a Gryphon named Kazul, and a Sumatran White Tiger Named Cain. Both the Creators left the group for their own reasons when the group had not seen additional members for 5 months. In their absence, the group grew a little, but since both admins had left, Facebook automatically had this message on the group 'This group has no admins.' with a link anyone could click to become admin. new active member Elias Saphir stepped up and assumed the void Administrator position.

After a short time, Kazul and Cain decided to come back and continue their adminship. The group got larger, Cain left, and then Frostee Fox was introduced into the adminship. It was at this point, nearing one hundred members on the Facebook group, that some of the plans of the members and some of the admins decided that there should there should be an official group meetup. Thus, on February 12th 2011, the first Utah Furries group meet occurred a Denny's with an attendance of about twenty people. It was decided to continue on with the meets.

During the second meet, an adminship of Elias Saphir, Kazul, and Frostee Fox was created and RooChi Lexico and Scha Darkart were assigned as moderators. May 2011 Kazul and Frostee stepped down from leadership after, "we felt as though we were being forced out by those both in power, and those who wanted it", and RooChi and Scha were introduced as admins. Frostee later told Elias, "It was sad to leave leadership, but I did it to reduce the amount of drama that was beginning in the group, and because the group was inevitably going to become a defacto arm of the UFF"

The group goals have consisted of creating a furry presence in the general Utah community and fulfilling service opportunities within the community. The benefits of this have already been seen by being asked to entertain children at the SLC CureSearch Walk in July 2011, after one of the organizers of the event saw the Utah Furries marching in the 2011 Orem City Summerfest Parade in June of 2011.

== Structure ==
As of yet, an official group structure has not been established, and dicussions around this topic have been the source of a lot of drama in the group. Elias Saphir was the first one to suggest making a government, which he did at the second meeting the group ever had in march 12th, the potluck/BBQ in the park. At the Time the other Admins, Frostee Fox and Kazul, did not see a reason for a government but went along with it anyways.

back in April of 2011, the admins had a period of time that people could submit Governmental Structure Proposals. The Proposals had to include the following: the Purpose of the Structure, Leadership Positions, Leadership Terms and Power Switching, Leadership Conflict of Interest Rules, The Rights of the Community (Bill of Rights), and Amendments & Rules. Only 3 Proposals were submitted, two versions were submitted by admin Elias Saphir (one and then a sightly modified upgraded version) and one by member Thay Rustback. Here is Elias's 2nd version and Thay's Proposal:

"Utah Valley Furries Governmental Structure Proposal
Proposal By: Austin Clift Based On: N/A Date Created: April 14, 2011 Date Submitted: April 14, 2011

Purpose of the Structure: Each governmental structure holds a distinct purpose. Some may have a purpose of giving the power over to its’ citizens so they have complete control, others will give all of the power to the leadership. Please describe in the box below what you hope to achieve within the structure including, but not limited to: Where the power is held, goals of the structure, and the reasons for where the power is held and the goals. The purpose of this structure is to give sufficient power to the leadership positions, but still give a good amount of control to the community. The goals are as follows: Cut down on out of group and inner group drama with specialized positions. Have a personal that has the highest authority so, if the leadership cannot create a winning vote (a tie), that highest authority will be the final say on the issue. Of course only after both sides make their argument for what they believe should happen.

The reasons for having a split power between leadership and the community and the goals are as follows: If the community has no power it will up-rise (create drama) and undermine the specialized positions to rid drama. No drama is always good, no one can argue with that. If ties are continuous, the leadership will become useless and unable to make choices for the better of the group.

Leadership Positions (Max of Six, Minimum of Two): Because the group is smaller, though this may change in time, there cannot be too many leadership positions nor can there be too few. Please list any positions that your structure will implement, along with their descriptions and roles and duties. Title: Description: President This individual holds the highest power, having the final say on issues that may hold up the system; however, the power this individual holds is not much higher than the Vice Presidents.
This individual holds the following powers and duties: If there is any tie within the group he/she will have the final say after the two sides demonstrate their point. He/she will be a part of the voting committee of any issues and will assign the dates and times of voting events (No one can act as proxy for this individual). Assign tasks to any of the moderators and the Vice Presidents. If a VP is not doing his/her job, the President shall assume their responsibilities. If a VP is not doing his/her job, the President can open a community vote that can impeach a VP and Moderator. Vice President 1 This individual holds the second highest power, having the capability to vote in leadership-only voting committees.
This individual holds the following powers and duties: Vote and communicate his/her ideas during voting meets. He/she will be a part of the voting committee and is essential for its occurrence. If he/she cannot attend the meeting, he/she can find any of the three moderators to act as the Vice President in proxy (The Moderator must speak the Vice Presidents thoughts and feelings, even if the Moderator acting as proxy has differing thoughts and feelings.) A Moderator acting as a proxy cannot vote as a Moderator when there is a voting meeting that will include moderators. Assigns tasks to Moderator 1 and Domestic Issues Moderator. If Moderator 1 is not doing his/her job, the VP1 assumes the responsibility. Accept assignments from President. Vice President 2 This individual holds the second highest power, having the capability to vote in leadership-only voting committees.
This individual holds the following powers and duties: Vote and communicate his/her ideas during voting meets. He/she will be a part of the voting committee and is essential for its occurrence. If he/she cannot attend the meeting, he/she can find any of the three moderators to act as the Vice President in proxy (The Moderator must speak the Vice Presidents thoughts and feelings, even if the Moderator acting as proxy has differing thoughts and feelings.) A Moderator acting as a proxy cannot vote as a Moderator when there is a voting meeting that will include moderators. Assigns tasks to Moderator 2 and Domestic Issues Moderator. If Moderator 2 is not doing his/her job, the VP2 assumes the responsibility. Accepts assignments from President. Moderator 1 This individual holds the third highest power, having the capability to vote in some leadership-only voting committees.
This individual holds the following powers and duties: Vote and communicate his/her ideas during voting meets. Voting attendance while not necessary is important and he/she should attend to each meeting where applicable; however, a community member can act as a proxy with an approval of a VP or President. Attends to out-of group affairs, such as visiting local business to see if they would be okay with fursuiting (tails, ears, full suits, half suits, etc.) Please note: this individual MUST visit the business and show them the portfolio of pictures of past events. Accepting assignments from VP1. Moderator 2 This individual holds the third highest power, having the capability to vote in some leadership-only voting committees.
This individual holds the following powers and duties: Vote and communicate his/her ideas during voting meets. Voting attendance while not necessary is important and he/she should attend to each meeting where applicable; however, a community member can act as a proxy with an approval of a VP or President. Attends to inner-group affairs such as, but not limited to: Drama elimination Birthday announcements Notifying minors when they can/not attend Making sure when minors do attend they follow the necessary precautions Accepting assignments from VP2. Domestic Issues Moderator This individual holds the fourth highest power, not being able to vote and accepting assignments from the Moderators and VP (if applicable).
This individual holds the following powers and duties: Accept assignments from both VPs and Moderators. Deal with drama within the group. (This is essentially the purpose of this leadership’s position.)

Leadership Terms and Power Switching: Each leadership will have term limits. Please list how long the term limits will be for each position and the process to switch the positions. Use a bullet list to represent each separate idea. Each leadership position has a three term limit. After an individual has reached his/her limit he/she has two choices. Drop any leadership responsibilities and become a part of the normal community. Go after another leadership position by opening a community vote. If the person is voted in another leadership position with an 80% majority, he/she will assume that responsibility. (The President does not have this option) Each term is four months. A person may again go after a leadership position after three cycles (new people). After each term the following will occur: A community meeting will be held, and individuals who wish to have their hand at a leadership role will present why they should assume that role. After this, people with objections will speak up. After this, there will be a vote where simple majority is victor. Voting will be a private matter. A person will write his/her vote on a piece of paper, and put it in a box. The box will be then shaken up and the votes will be tallied. If the existing leader obtains a majority, he/she will assume the responsibilities and powers for another term. Only people in attendance of the voting meeting may vote.

Leadership Conflict of Interest Rules: There will arise a time where elected leaders will have conflicts of interest. Please list the process on how, when these arise, the problem will be dealt with. Use a bullet list to represent each separate idea. If 40% of the community agrees that there is a conflict of interest, they may open up a voting forum and do the following: Present their case in front of the leadership committee and the community. Have votes cast (In the same way term voting occurs). If the leader is impeached, the roles of that person will be shifted up to the person of higher power until a voting meeting can occur. Due to couples being more inclined to agree on the same thing, no two people in a relationship may become leaders unless: The community votes and a high majority (70%) see no problem with it. The relationship happens after the leaders are voted in.

The Rights of the Community (Bill of Rights): Each community needs their rights. These can include the power to impeach current leadership, have a community voting on something leadership usually decides on their own, etc. Please list the rights of the community here, using bullet lists. Please provide sufficient detail of those rights. Community members may impeach leaders that they believe that are not the best for the group. Community members may show up at leadership-only voting forums and argue for/against what is being discussed. Community members have the freedom of speech, excluding: Items that will create drama. If an individual has a problem with another, he/she should go directly to that individual, with a moderator, and talk it out; not talk to anyone he/she sees. Community members are free to argue and debate with other members as long as: It does not occur during a meet. It does not occur on any of our website pages. It does not create tension that will ruin an individual’s fun at the meet. (In other words, if this argument will cause a person to refuse to show up at the meets, then do not argue to that degree.)

Amendments & Rules: Each governmental structure needs rules to adhere by; these rules will be applied to all members, including leadership. Please, with a bullet list, describe each rule. Please provide sufficient detail of those rights. There will be no debating and/or arguing the following on anything related to the meet: Politics Religion You can debate the rules of the group WITHIN the PROPER forum. This group is for individuals eighteen or older. If the leadership sees that an event is fit for a minor to attend, then the minor will need to wear a red wrist band and be accompanied by a guardian or parent. Minors under the age of sixteen are not permitted, no exceptions.

Other Items: If there are any other items that do not belong in any other field, please place them here. Again, please provide information within a bullet list. There will be an anti-drama forum once every two months. If you have a drama/tension with another individual, then bring them here and talk about it in the presence of moderators that will make sure the talking does not get to heated and/or hurtful. There shall be a leadership forum to talk about the progress of the group (leaders only) and the steps that should be taken to further it.

Signature: Austin Clift Date: April 14, 2011 Current Leadership Signatures On the chance that your structure proposal is chosen, each current leadership member will sign off on it, enacting its passage and starting the implementing phase.
Leadership 1 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________ Leadership 2 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________ Leadership 3 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________ Leadership 4 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________ Leadership 6 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________ Leadership 6 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________"
"Utah Valley Furries Governmental Structure Proposal

Proposal By: ______Thay/Risha________ Based On: ________________ Date Created: ______5/8/11_______ Date Submitted: ____5/9/11________

Purpose of the Structure: Each governmental structure holds a distinct purpose. Some may have a purpose of giving the power over to its’ citizens so they have complete control, others will give all of the power to the leadership. Please describe in the box below what you hope to achieve within the structure including, but not limited to: Where the power is held, goals of the structure, and the reasons for where the power is held and the goals.
The purpose of this government is to achieve organization and initiative within the group. Its roles will include, but not be limited to… -setting guidelines/rules/standards (including keeping everything safe and legal) -organizing activities -promoting camaraderie/ peace amongst the group members -make sure everyone has fun/feels supported/belonging
This government is not a controlling entity; it will give the group more organization and direct and allow the group to achiever bigger, better things. Basically, they make things happen.

Leadership Positions (Max of Six, Minimum of Two): Because the group is smaller, though this may change in time, there cannot be too many leadership positions nor can there be too few. Please list any positions that your structure will implement, along with their descriptions and roles and duties. Title: Description:
Leaders: =President: -Task delegation -Takes an a initiatory role -Figurehead -Facilitator -Big picture- should make sure everything else is running smoothly
=Vice President: -Helps/coordinates with the President to perform all of the same tasks

Council of representives: =Secretary: -take minutes at any meetings -keep copies of all documents, forms, etc. -Fundraising
=Activities coordinator: - gets in contact with the venues with which we wish to arrange meets. -finds out what people want/like to do
=Internal Relations: -take all internal complaints -peacemaker -brings interpersonal relation problems to the attention of other leader ship
All leadership and council members should help others if it is needed; no one should be left to fulfill their tasks on their own. The vice president or another leadership member may double as another role to create an odd number to make voting easier. For example, perhaps he vice president will take on the role on activities coordinator. However if this conflicts with their current duties, they must delegate the task to another.
Leadership Terms and Power Switching: Each leadership will have term limits. Please list how long the term limits will be for each position and the process to switch the positions. Use a bullet list to represent each separate idea.

Terms are four months in length. Term limits apply to full terms; if a member join the council half-way through a term, that term does not count towards their limit.
Leaders: -Term limit is three terms, whether consecutive or not. -determined by an election involving the whole group- either at a meet or an anonymous online poll.
Council: -Two consecutive terms at a time, two terms per post, but may serve up to four terms. (by having a different term limit, this prevents a total leadership turnover if everyone maxes out their term limits- obviously not always, but it will help.) -those who wish to participate on the council must submit a form or application of some sort, at which time the leadership will determine those who will fill the role. As these are positions made to aid the leaders in fulfilling all necessary tasks, the leaders will choose these partners. Leaders may elect to hold a poll anyway.
There may be an overlap as new leadership cycles in, in order to train in new leadership.

Leadership Conflict of Interest Rules: There will arise a time where elected leaders will have conflicts of interest. Please list the process on how, when these arise, the problem will be dealt with. Use a bullet list to represent each separate idea.

Leaders may elect to abstain from a vote should they feel as though their bias is too strong and may affect the group negatively. The council may elect to call in another member to take the absent voter’s place or to simply continue without another person.
If others notice the conflict of interest and the leader refuses to step down, the council may take a vote to omit this person from the decision-making process; the vote must carry majority to accomplish this. Tact and care should be used in order to prevent conflict within leadership.

The Rights of the Community (Bill of Rights): Each community needs their rights. These can include the power to impeach current leadership, have a community voting on something leadership usually decides on their own, etc. Please list the rights of the community here, using bullet lists. Please provide sufficient detail of those rights.

Communities wishing for change that cannot be achieved simply by requesting an audience with leadership may petition for such and those signing the petition must number at least twelve.
Rights of the community include: -impeachment of leadership on reasonable grounds, including but not limited to various sorts of misconduct and failure to fulfill their role -having a say in decisions; leadership should communicate to inform the community of any and all things, within reason (especially as this is a fairly quickly cycling gov’t, there really isn’t anything to hide anyway) -nominating and electing leaders and representatives.
Amendments & Rules: Each governmental structure needs rules to adhere by; these rules will be applied to all members, including leadership. Please, with a bullet list, describe each rule. Please provide sufficient detail of those rights.

-All decisions will be made in the best interest and safety of the group as a whole. -All state, local and facility rules and laws must be obeyed at all times. -Respect all members/ do not start fights, arguments, contention. Slander will not be tolerated. If there is a problem, it will be brought to the attention of internal relations and it will be dealt with appropriately -This group does not nor will have any religious or political affiliations -In extreme cases, members may be suspended from attending meets and participating in online discussion; grounds and consequences to be decided upon on a case-to-case basis -No minors will be permitted to attend meets --Specific events maybe organized in which minors may attend with parental permission --Under no circumstances will said minors be given a ride by another member; they must have a ride with a family member. --Absolutely no minors under 16 at all.
Other Items: If there are any other items that do not belong in any other field, please place them here. Again, please provide information within a bullet list.

Signature: _Risha Kapoor____ Date: _5/9/11_____ Current Leadership Signatures On the chance that the structure of the group will change, each current leadership member will sign off on it, enacting its passage and starting the implementing phase.
Leadership 1 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________ Leadership 2 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________ Leadership 3 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________ Leadership 4 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________ Leadership 5 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________ Leadership 6 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________"
Elias decided that since not enough proposal's were submitted, the group would delay in getting a government set up until He, Roochi and Scha could make an all new proposal, combining the one that had been submitted. The admins have repeatedly promised to get have it done by a certain date, but use the excuse, 'other, more important things had to be done first' but Admin Elias Saphir posted this in response to an inquiry by member Cassiopia Cougar about the status of the government: "It is being worked on. Our goal is to finish it before the next meet.[reffering to the July 13th 2011 Potluck meet)

== Membership ==
Everyone is welcome to join the Facebook group and attend the meets (see section minors). The group has many things for people to enjoy, and should be fun for anyone who chooses to attend.

Current Moderators ~ As of July 2011
*[[RooChi Lexico]]
*[[Elias Saphir]]
*[[Scha Darkart]]

Previous moderators:
*[[Kazul]]
*[[Frostee Fox]]

== Policy on Minors ==
As of right now, the minimum age to be on the Facebook group is thirteen and the minimum age to attend the group meets is sixteen; however, individuals under the age of eighteen MUST be accompanied by an adult to the meets which will stay with them through the entire meet. If the minor does not have a parent or legal guardian to accompany them at the meet, then they may not attend the meet. This policy is subject to change.

== Activities ==
The Utah Furries organizes different meets each month. They range from BBQs to performing in a parade. These meets aim more to just make idle conversation, but for other furries really get to know other furries and to better the community in general (both furry and not). The meets, with the exception of the very first meet at Denny's, have all been focused on Fursuiter, leaving everyone else to stand back and watch. For this reason, The admins require every suiter is assigned 2 and sometimes 3 handelers at every meet.

So far, the group has participated in the following activities: [[Strut your Mutt 2011]], [[SLC CureSearch Walk]]

== Conventions ==
Here is the list of conventions that will have a wide presence from the group.

*'''[[Rocky Mountain Fur Con]] 2011''':
**'''Notable Attendees''':
***'''[[RooChi Lexico]]''':
***'''[[Elias Saphir]]''':
***'''[[Evauk]]''':

*'''[[Rainfurrest]] 2011''':
**'''Notable Attendees''':
***'''[[Kazul]]''':
***'''[[Frostee Fox]]''':
***'''[[YuurYuu]]''':

== Media ==
So far the Utah Furries group doesn't have a notable media presence, though it is growing. However, current admin [[Elias Saphir]] has been putting together videos that give an overview of each meetups.

*'''[[Elias Saphir]] Videos''':
**'''February 12th Denny's Meet''': http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ryAEbG0CWGs
**'''March 12th BBQ Meet''': http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DwRuOPaRIsc
**'''April 9th Nickel City Meet''': http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=29KbC22R9Mk
**'''May 4th Trafalga Meet''': http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A9HAIcf472I
**'''Strut your Mutt Meet''': http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NjoMnHC3iyg

== Other Outlets==
*'''Links'''
**'''Twitter''': http://twitter.com/#!/UtahSt_Furries
**'''UStream''': http://www.ustream.tv/channel/utah-furries
**'''Email''': utah.furries@gmail.com
**'''Phone''': 1-801-200-FURS

[[Category:Regional groups]]
[[Category:Utah]]

Utah Furries

2011-07-13T21:02:06Z

LeDutch: /* History */

[[File:utah_furries_logo.jpg|right]]
'''Utah Furries''' is the second largest furry meet up group in Utah centered in [[wikipedia:Orem,_Utah|Orem, Utah]]. The group's members range across the entire state to a few members appearing from states such as [[wikipedia:Idaho|Idaho]] and [[wikipedia:Wyoming|Wyoming]].

The group meets the second Saturday of every month participating in various activities such as: a BBQ, Nickel City, Trafalga, and performing in the Orem Summerfest Parade.

*'''Links''':
**'''Facebook Group''': http://www.facebook.com/groups/utah.furries?ap=1
**'''Twitter''': http://twitter.com/#!/UtahSt_Furries

== History ==
The Utah Furries group was started in 2008 two high school friends, a Gryphon named Kazul, and a Sumatran White Tiger Named Cain. Both the Creators left the group for their own reasons when the group had not seen additional members for 5 months. In their absence, the group grew a little, but since both admins had left, Facebook automatically had this message on the group 'This group has no admins.' with a link anyone could click to become admin. new active member Elias Saphir stepped up and assumed the void Administrator position.

After a short time, Kazul and Cain decided to come back and continue their adminship. The group got larger, Cain left, and then Frostee Fox was introduced into the adminship. It was at this point, nearing one hundred members on the Facebook group, that some of the plans of the members and some of the admins decided that there should there should be an official group meetup. Thus, on February 12th 2011, the first Utah Furries group meet occurred a Denny's with an attendance of about twenty people. It was decided to continue on with the meets.

During the second meet, an adminship of Elias Saphir, Kazul, and Frostee Fox was created and RooChi Lexico and Scha Darkart were assigned as moderators. May 2011 Kazul and Frostee stepped down from leadership after, "we felt as though we were being forced out by those both in power, and those who wanted it", and RooChi and Scha were introduced as admins. Frostee later told Elias, "It was sad to leave leadership, but I did it to reduce the amount of drama that was beginning in the group, and because the group was inevitably going to become a defacto arm of the UFF"

The group goals have consisted of creating a furry presence in the general Utah community and fulfilling service opportunities within the community. The benefits of this have already been seen by being asked to entertain children at the SLC CureSearch Walk in July 2011, after one of the organizers of the event saw the Utah Furries marching in the 2011 Orem City Summerfest Parade in June of 2011.

== Structure ==
As of yet, an official group structure has not been established, and has actually been the source of a lot of drama in the group. Elias Saphir was the first one to suggest making a government, which he did at the second meeting the group ever had in march 12th, the potluck/BBQ in the park. At the Time the other Admins, Frostee Fox and Kazul, did not see a reason for a government but went along with it anyways.
back in April of 2011, the admins had a period of time that people could submit Governmental Structure Proposals. The Proposals had to include the following: the Purpose of the Structure, Leadership Positions, Leadership Terms and Power Switching, Leadership Conflict of Interest Rules, The Rights of the Community (Bill of Rights), and Amendments & Rules. Only 3 Proposals were submitted, two versions were submitted by admin Elias Saphir (one and then a sightly modified upgraded version) and one by member Thay Rustback. Here is Elias's 2nd version and Thay's Proposal:

"Utah Valley Furries Governmental Structure Proposal
Proposal By: Austin Clift Based On: N/A Date Created: April 14, 2011 Date Submitted: April 14, 2011

Purpose of the Structure: Each governmental structure holds a distinct purpose. Some may have a purpose of giving the power over to its’ citizens so they have complete control, others will give all of the power to the leadership. Please describe in the box below what you hope to achieve within the structure including, but not limited to: Where the power is held, goals of the structure, and the reasons for where the power is held and the goals. The purpose of this structure is to give sufficient power to the leadership positions, but still give a good amount of control to the community. The goals are as follows: Cut down on out of group and inner group drama with specialized positions. Have a personal that has the highest authority so, if the leadership cannot create a winning vote (a tie), that highest authority will be the final say on the issue. Of course only after both sides make their argument for what they believe should happen.

The reasons for having a split power between leadership and the community and the goals are as follows: If the community has no power it will up-rise (create drama) and undermine the specialized positions to rid drama. No drama is always good, no one can argue with that. If ties are continuous, the leadership will become useless and unable to make choices for the better of the group.

Leadership Positions (Max of Six, Minimum of Two): Because the group is smaller, though this may change in time, there cannot be too many leadership positions nor can there be too few. Please list any positions that your structure will implement, along with their descriptions and roles and duties. Title: Description: President This individual holds the highest power, having the final say on issues that may hold up the system; however, the power this individual holds is not much higher than the Vice Presidents.
This individual holds the following powers and duties: If there is any tie within the group he/she will have the final say after the two sides demonstrate their point. He/she will be a part of the voting committee of any issues and will assign the dates and times of voting events (No one can act as proxy for this individual). Assign tasks to any of the moderators and the Vice Presidents. If a VP is not doing his/her job, the President shall assume their responsibilities. If a VP is not doing his/her job, the President can open a community vote that can impeach a VP and Moderator. Vice President 1 This individual holds the second highest power, having the capability to vote in leadership-only voting committees.
This individual holds the following powers and duties: Vote and communicate his/her ideas during voting meets. He/she will be a part of the voting committee and is essential for its occurrence. If he/she cannot attend the meeting, he/she can find any of the three moderators to act as the Vice President in proxy (The Moderator must speak the Vice Presidents thoughts and feelings, even if the Moderator acting as proxy has differing thoughts and feelings.) A Moderator acting as a proxy cannot vote as a Moderator when there is a voting meeting that will include moderators. Assigns tasks to Moderator 1 and Domestic Issues Moderator. If Moderator 1 is not doing his/her job, the VP1 assumes the responsibility. Accept assignments from President. Vice President 2 This individual holds the second highest power, having the capability to vote in leadership-only voting committees.
This individual holds the following powers and duties: Vote and communicate his/her ideas during voting meets. He/she will be a part of the voting committee and is essential for its occurrence. If he/she cannot attend the meeting, he/she can find any of the three moderators to act as the Vice President in proxy (The Moderator must speak the Vice Presidents thoughts and feelings, even if the Moderator acting as proxy has differing thoughts and feelings.) A Moderator acting as a proxy cannot vote as a Moderator when there is a voting meeting that will include moderators. Assigns tasks to Moderator 2 and Domestic Issues Moderator. If Moderator 2 is not doing his/her job, the VP2 assumes the responsibility. Accepts assignments from President. Moderator 1 This individual holds the third highest power, having the capability to vote in some leadership-only voting committees.
This individual holds the following powers and duties: Vote and communicate his/her ideas during voting meets. Voting attendance while not necessary is important and he/she should attend to each meeting where applicable; however, a community member can act as a proxy with an approval of a VP or President. Attends to out-of group affairs, such as visiting local business to see if they would be okay with fursuiting (tails, ears, full suits, half suits, etc.) Please note: this individual MUST visit the business and show them the portfolio of pictures of past events. Accepting assignments from VP1. Moderator 2 This individual holds the third highest power, having the capability to vote in some leadership-only voting committees.
This individual holds the following powers and duties: Vote and communicate his/her ideas during voting meets. Voting attendance while not necessary is important and he/she should attend to each meeting where applicable; however, a community member can act as a proxy with an approval of a VP or President. Attends to inner-group affairs such as, but not limited to: Drama elimination Birthday announcements Notifying minors when they can/not attend Making sure when minors do attend they follow the necessary precautions Accepting assignments from VP2. Domestic Issues Moderator This individual holds the fourth highest power, not being able to vote and accepting assignments from the Moderators and VP (if applicable).
This individual holds the following powers and duties: Accept assignments from both VPs and Moderators. Deal with drama within the group. (This is essentially the purpose of this leadership’s position.)

Leadership Terms and Power Switching: Each leadership will have term limits. Please list how long the term limits will be for each position and the process to switch the positions. Use a bullet list to represent each separate idea. Each leadership position has a three term limit. After an individual has reached his/her limit he/she has two choices. Drop any leadership responsibilities and become a part of the normal community. Go after another leadership position by opening a community vote. If the person is voted in another leadership position with an 80% majority, he/she will assume that responsibility. (The President does not have this option) Each term is four months. A person may again go after a leadership position after three cycles (new people). After each term the following will occur: A community meeting will be held, and individuals who wish to have their hand at a leadership role will present why they should assume that role. After this, people with objections will speak up. After this, there will be a vote where simple majority is victor. Voting will be a private matter. A person will write his/her vote on a piece of paper, and put it in a box. The box will be then shaken up and the votes will be tallied. If the existing leader obtains a majority, he/she will assume the responsibilities and powers for another term. Only people in attendance of the voting meeting may vote.

Leadership Conflict of Interest Rules: There will arise a time where elected leaders will have conflicts of interest. Please list the process on how, when these arise, the problem will be dealt with. Use a bullet list to represent each separate idea. If 40% of the community agrees that there is a conflict of interest, they may open up a voting forum and do the following: Present their case in front of the leadership committee and the community. Have votes cast (In the same way term voting occurs). If the leader is impeached, the roles of that person will be shifted up to the person of higher power until a voting meeting can occur. Due to couples being more inclined to agree on the same thing, no two people in a relationship may become leaders unless: The community votes and a high majority (70%) see no problem with it. The relationship happens after the leaders are voted in.

The Rights of the Community (Bill of Rights): Each community needs their rights. These can include the power to impeach current leadership, have a community voting on something leadership usually decides on their own, etc. Please list the rights of the community here, using bullet lists. Please provide sufficient detail of those rights. Community members may impeach leaders that they believe that are not the best for the group. Community members may show up at leadership-only voting forums and argue for/against what is being discussed. Community members have the freedom of speech, excluding: Items that will create drama. If an individual has a problem with another, he/she should go directly to that individual, with a moderator, and talk it out; not talk to anyone he/she sees. Community members are free to argue and debate with other members as long as: It does not occur during a meet. It does not occur on any of our website pages. It does not create tension that will ruin an individual’s fun at the meet. (In other words, if this argument will cause a person to refuse to show up at the meets, then do not argue to that degree.)

Amendments & Rules: Each governmental structure needs rules to adhere by; these rules will be applied to all members, including leadership. Please, with a bullet list, describe each rule. Please provide sufficient detail of those rights. There will be no debating and/or arguing the following on anything related to the meet: Politics Religion You can debate the rules of the group WITHIN the PROPER forum. This group is for individuals eighteen or older. If the leadership sees that an event is fit for a minor to attend, then the minor will need to wear a red wrist band and be accompanied by a guardian or parent. Minors under the age of sixteen are not permitted, no exceptions.

Other Items: If there are any other items that do not belong in any other field, please place them here. Again, please provide information within a bullet list. There will be an anti-drama forum once every two months. If you have a drama/tension with another individual, then bring them here and talk about it in the presence of moderators that will make sure the talking does not get to heated and/or hurtful. There shall be a leadership forum to talk about the progress of the group (leaders only) and the steps that should be taken to further it.

Signature: Austin Clift Date: April 14, 2011 Current Leadership Signatures On the chance that your structure proposal is chosen, each current leadership member will sign off on it, enacting its passage and starting the implementing phase.
Leadership 1 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________ Leadership 2 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________ Leadership 3 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________ Leadership 4 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________ Leadership 6 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________ Leadership 6 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________"
"Utah Valley Furries Governmental Structure Proposal

Proposal By: ______Thay/Risha________ Based On: ________________ Date Created: ______5/8/11_______ Date Submitted: ____5/9/11________

Purpose of the Structure: Each governmental structure holds a distinct purpose. Some may have a purpose of giving the power over to its’ citizens so they have complete control, others will give all of the power to the leadership. Please describe in the box below what you hope to achieve within the structure including, but not limited to: Where the power is held, goals of the structure, and the reasons for where the power is held and the goals.
The purpose of this government is to achieve organization and initiative within the group. Its roles will include, but not be limited to… -setting guidelines/rules/standards (including keeping everything safe and legal) -organizing activities -promoting camaraderie/ peace amongst the group members -make sure everyone has fun/feels supported/belonging
This government is not a controlling entity; it will give the group more organization and direct and allow the group to achiever bigger, better things. Basically, they make things happen.

Leadership Positions (Max of Six, Minimum of Two): Because the group is smaller, though this may change in time, there cannot be too many leadership positions nor can there be too few. Please list any positions that your structure will implement, along with their descriptions and roles and duties. Title: Description:
Leaders: =President: -Task delegation -Takes an a initiatory role -Figurehead -Facilitator -Big picture- should make sure everything else is running smoothly
=Vice President: -Helps/coordinates with the President to perform all of the same tasks

Council of representives: =Secretary: -take minutes at any meetings -keep copies of all documents, forms, etc. -Fundraising
=Activities coordinator: - gets in contact with the venues with which we wish to arrange meets. -finds out what people want/like to do
=Internal Relations: -take all internal complaints -peacemaker -brings interpersonal relation problems to the attention of other leader ship
All leadership and council members should help others if it is needed; no one should be left to fulfill their tasks on their own. The vice president or another leadership member may double as another role to create an odd number to make voting easier. For example, perhaps he vice president will take on the role on activities coordinator. However if this conflicts with their current duties, they must delegate the task to another.
Leadership Terms and Power Switching: Each leadership will have term limits. Please list how long the term limits will be for each position and the process to switch the positions. Use a bullet list to represent each separate idea.

Terms are four months in length. Term limits apply to full terms; if a member join the council half-way through a term, that term does not count towards their limit.
Leaders: -Term limit is three terms, whether consecutive or not. -determined by an election involving the whole group- either at a meet or an anonymous online poll.
Council: -Two consecutive terms at a time, two terms per post, but may serve up to four terms. (by having a different term limit, this prevents a total leadership turnover if everyone maxes out their term limits- obviously not always, but it will help.) -those who wish to participate on the council must submit a form or application of some sort, at which time the leadership will determine those who will fill the role. As these are positions made to aid the leaders in fulfilling all necessary tasks, the leaders will choose these partners. Leaders may elect to hold a poll anyway.
There may be an overlap as new leadership cycles in, in order to train in new leadership.

Leadership Conflict of Interest Rules: There will arise a time where elected leaders will have conflicts of interest. Please list the process on how, when these arise, the problem will be dealt with. Use a bullet list to represent each separate idea.

Leaders may elect to abstain from a vote should they feel as though their bias is too strong and may affect the group negatively. The council may elect to call in another member to take the absent voter’s place or to simply continue without another person.
If others notice the conflict of interest and the leader refuses to step down, the council may take a vote to omit this person from the decision-making process; the vote must carry majority to accomplish this. Tact and care should be used in order to prevent conflict within leadership.

The Rights of the Community (Bill of Rights): Each community needs their rights. These can include the power to impeach current leadership, have a community voting on something leadership usually decides on their own, etc. Please list the rights of the community here, using bullet lists. Please provide sufficient detail of those rights.

Communities wishing for change that cannot be achieved simply by requesting an audience with leadership may petition for such and those signing the petition must number at least twelve.
Rights of the community include: -impeachment of leadership on reasonable grounds, including but not limited to various sorts of misconduct and failure to fulfill their role -having a say in decisions; leadership should communicate to inform the community of any and all things, within reason (especially as this is a fairly quickly cycling gov’t, there really isn’t anything to hide anyway) -nominating and electing leaders and representatives.
Amendments & Rules: Each governmental structure needs rules to adhere by; these rules will be applied to all members, including leadership. Please, with a bullet list, describe each rule. Please provide sufficient detail of those rights.

-All decisions will be made in the best interest and safety of the group as a whole. -All state, local and facility rules and laws must be obeyed at all times. -Respect all members/ do not start fights, arguments, contention. Slander will not be tolerated. If there is a problem, it will be brought to the attention of internal relations and it will be dealt with appropriately -This group does not nor will have any religious or political affiliations -In extreme cases, members may be suspended from attending meets and participating in online discussion; grounds and consequences to be decided upon on a case-to-case basis -No minors will be permitted to attend meets --Specific events maybe organized in which minors may attend with parental permission --Under no circumstances will said minors be given a ride by another member; they must have a ride with a family member. --Absolutely no minors under 16 at all.
Other Items: If there are any other items that do not belong in any other field, please place them here. Again, please provide information within a bullet list.

Signature: _Risha Kapoor____ Date: _5/9/11_____ Current Leadership Signatures On the chance that the structure of the group will change, each current leadership member will sign off on it, enacting its passage and starting the implementing phase.
Leadership 1 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________ Leadership 2 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________ Leadership 3 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________ Leadership 4 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________ Leadership 5 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________ Leadership 6 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________"
Elias decided that since not enough proposal's were submitted, the group would delay in getting a government set up until He, Roochi and Scha could make an all new proposal, combining the one that had been submitted. The admins have repeatedly promised to get have it done by a certain date, but use the excuse, 'other, more important things had to be done first' but Admin Elias Saphir posted this in response to an inquiry by member Cassiopia Cougar about the status of the government: "It is being worked on. Our goal is to finish it before the next meet.[reffering to the July 13th 2011 Potluck meet)

== Membership ==
Everyone is welcome to join the Facebook group and attend the meets (see section minors). The group has many things for people to enjoy, and should be fun for anyone who chooses to attend.

Current Moderators ~ As of July 2011
*[[RooChi Lexico]]
*[[Elias Saphir]]
*[[Scha Darkart]]

Previous moderators:
*[[Kazul]]
*[[Frostee Fox]]

== Policy on Minors ==
As of right now, the minimum age to be on the Facebook group is thirteen and the minimum age to attend the group meets is sixteen; however, individuals under the age of eighteen MUST be accompanied by an adult to the meets which will stay with them through the entire meet. If the minor does not have a parent or legal guardian to accompany them at the meet, then they may not attend the meet. This policy is subject to change.

== Activities ==
The Utah Furries organizes different meets each month. They range from BBQs to performing in a parade. These meets aim more to just make idle conversation, but for other furries really get to know other furries and to better the community in general (both furry and not). The meets, with the exception of the very first meet at Denny's, have all been focused on Fursuiter, leaving everyone else to stand back and watch. For this reason, The admins require every suiter is assigned 2 and sometimes 3 handelers at every meet.

So far, the group has participated in the following activities: [[Strut your Mutt 2011]], [[SLC CureSearch Walk]]

== Conventions ==
Here is the list of conventions that will have a wide presence from the group.

*'''[[Rocky Mountain Fur Con]] 2011''':
**'''Notable Attendees''':
***'''[[RooChi Lexico]]''':
***'''[[Elias Saphir]]''':
***'''[[Evauk]]''':

*'''[[Rainfurrest]] 2011''':
**'''Notable Attendees''':
***'''[[Kazul]]''':
***'''[[Frostee Fox]]''':
***'''[[YuurYuu]]''':

== Media ==
So far the Utah Furries group doesn't have a notable media presence, though it is growing. However, current admin [[Elias Saphir]] has been putting together videos that give an overview of each meetups.

*'''[[Elias Saphir]] Videos''':
**'''February 12th Denny's Meet''': http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ryAEbG0CWGs
**'''March 12th BBQ Meet''': http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DwRuOPaRIsc
**'''April 9th Nickel City Meet''': http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=29KbC22R9Mk
**'''May 4th Trafalga Meet''': http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A9HAIcf472I
**'''Strut your Mutt Meet''': http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NjoMnHC3iyg

== Other Outlets==
*'''Links'''
**'''Twitter''': http://twitter.com/#!/UtahSt_Furries
**'''UStream''': http://www.ustream.tv/channel/utah-furries
**'''Email''': utah.furries@gmail.com
**'''Phone''': 1-801-200-FURS

[[Category:Regional groups]]
[[Category:Utah]]

Utah Furries

2011-07-13T20:59:43Z

LeDutch: /* History */

[[File:utah_furries_logo.jpg|right]]
'''Utah Furries''' is the second largest furry meet up group in Utah centered in [[wikipedia:Orem,_Utah|Orem, Utah]]. The group's members range across the entire state to a few members appearing from states such as [[wikipedia:Idaho|Idaho]] and [[wikipedia:Wyoming|Wyoming]].

The group meets the second Saturday of every month participating in various activities such as: a BBQ, Nickel City, Trafalga, and performing in the Orem Summerfest Parade.

*'''Links''':
**'''Facebook Group''': http://www.facebook.com/groups/utah.furries?ap=1
**'''Twitter''': http://twitter.com/#!/UtahSt_Furries

== History ==
The Utah Furries group was started in 2008 two high school friends, a Gryphon named Kazul, and a Sumatran White Tiger Named Cain. Both the Creators left the group for their own reasons when the group had not scene additional members for 5 months. In their absence, the group grew a little, but since both admins had left, Facebook automatically had this message on the group 'This group has no admins.' with a link anyone could click to become admin. new active member Elias Saphir stepped up and assumed the void Administrator position.

After a short time, Kazul and Cain decided to come back and continue their adminship. The group got larger, Cain left, and then Frostee Fox was introduced into the adminship. It was at this point, nearing one hundred members on the Facebook group, that some of the plans of the members and some of the admins decided that there should there should be an official group meetup. Thus, on February 12th 2011, the first Utah Furries group meet occurred a Denny's with an attendance of about twenty people. It was decided to continue on with the meets.

During the second meet, an adminship of Elias Saphir, Kazul, and Frostee Fox was created and RooChi Lexico and Scha Darkart were assigned as moderators. May 2011 Kazul and Frostee stepped down from leadership after, "we felt as though we were being forced out by those both in power, and those who wanted it", and RooChi and Scha were introduced as admins. Frostee later told Elias, "It was sad to leave leadership, but I did it to reduce the amount of drama that was beginning in the group, and because the group was inevitably going to become a defacto arm of the UFF"

The group goals have consisted of creating a furry presence in the general Utah community and fulfilling service opportunities within the community. The benefits of this have already been seen by being asked to entertain children at the SLC CureSearch Walk in July 2011, after one of the organizers of the event saw the Utah Furries marching in the 2011 Orem City Summerfest Parade in June of 2011.

== Structure ==
As of yet, an official group structure has not been established, and has actually been the source of a lot of drama in the group. Elias Saphir was the first one to suggest making a government, which he did at the second meeting the group ever had in march 12th, the potluck/BBQ in the park. At the Time the other Admins, Frostee Fox and Kazul, did not see a reason for a government but went along with it anyways.
back in April of 2011, the admins had a period of time that people could submit Governmental Structure Proposals. The Proposals had to include the following: the Purpose of the Structure, Leadership Positions, Leadership Terms and Power Switching, Leadership Conflict of Interest Rules, The Rights of the Community (Bill of Rights), and Amendments & Rules. Only 3 Proposals were submitted, two versions were submitted by admin Elias Saphir (one and then a sightly modified upgraded version) and one by member Thay Rustback. Here is Elias's 2nd version and Thay's Proposal:

"Utah Valley Furries Governmental Structure Proposal
Proposal By: Austin Clift Based On: N/A Date Created: April 14, 2011 Date Submitted: April 14, 2011

Purpose of the Structure: Each governmental structure holds a distinct purpose. Some may have a purpose of giving the power over to its’ citizens so they have complete control, others will give all of the power to the leadership. Please describe in the box below what you hope to achieve within the structure including, but not limited to: Where the power is held, goals of the structure, and the reasons for where the power is held and the goals. The purpose of this structure is to give sufficient power to the leadership positions, but still give a good amount of control to the community. The goals are as follows: Cut down on out of group and inner group drama with specialized positions. Have a personal that has the highest authority so, if the leadership cannot create a winning vote (a tie), that highest authority will be the final say on the issue. Of course only after both sides make their argument for what they believe should happen.

The reasons for having a split power between leadership and the community and the goals are as follows: If the community has no power it will up-rise (create drama) and undermine the specialized positions to rid drama. No drama is always good, no one can argue with that. If ties are continuous, the leadership will become useless and unable to make choices for the better of the group.

Leadership Positions (Max of Six, Minimum of Two): Because the group is smaller, though this may change in time, there cannot be too many leadership positions nor can there be too few. Please list any positions that your structure will implement, along with their descriptions and roles and duties. Title: Description: President This individual holds the highest power, having the final say on issues that may hold up the system; however, the power this individual holds is not much higher than the Vice Presidents.
This individual holds the following powers and duties: If there is any tie within the group he/she will have the final say after the two sides demonstrate their point. He/she will be a part of the voting committee of any issues and will assign the dates and times of voting events (No one can act as proxy for this individual). Assign tasks to any of the moderators and the Vice Presidents. If a VP is not doing his/her job, the President shall assume their responsibilities. If a VP is not doing his/her job, the President can open a community vote that can impeach a VP and Moderator. Vice President 1 This individual holds the second highest power, having the capability to vote in leadership-only voting committees.
This individual holds the following powers and duties: Vote and communicate his/her ideas during voting meets. He/she will be a part of the voting committee and is essential for its occurrence. If he/she cannot attend the meeting, he/she can find any of the three moderators to act as the Vice President in proxy (The Moderator must speak the Vice Presidents thoughts and feelings, even if the Moderator acting as proxy has differing thoughts and feelings.) A Moderator acting as a proxy cannot vote as a Moderator when there is a voting meeting that will include moderators. Assigns tasks to Moderator 1 and Domestic Issues Moderator. If Moderator 1 is not doing his/her job, the VP1 assumes the responsibility. Accept assignments from President. Vice President 2 This individual holds the second highest power, having the capability to vote in leadership-only voting committees.
This individual holds the following powers and duties: Vote and communicate his/her ideas during voting meets. He/she will be a part of the voting committee and is essential for its occurrence. If he/she cannot attend the meeting, he/she can find any of the three moderators to act as the Vice President in proxy (The Moderator must speak the Vice Presidents thoughts and feelings, even if the Moderator acting as proxy has differing thoughts and feelings.) A Moderator acting as a proxy cannot vote as a Moderator when there is a voting meeting that will include moderators. Assigns tasks to Moderator 2 and Domestic Issues Moderator. If Moderator 2 is not doing his/her job, the VP2 assumes the responsibility. Accepts assignments from President. Moderator 1 This individual holds the third highest power, having the capability to vote in some leadership-only voting committees.
This individual holds the following powers and duties: Vote and communicate his/her ideas during voting meets. Voting attendance while not necessary is important and he/she should attend to each meeting where applicable; however, a community member can act as a proxy with an approval of a VP or President. Attends to out-of group affairs, such as visiting local business to see if they would be okay with fursuiting (tails, ears, full suits, half suits, etc.) Please note: this individual MUST visit the business and show them the portfolio of pictures of past events. Accepting assignments from VP1. Moderator 2 This individual holds the third highest power, having the capability to vote in some leadership-only voting committees.
This individual holds the following powers and duties: Vote and communicate his/her ideas during voting meets. Voting attendance while not necessary is important and he/she should attend to each meeting where applicable; however, a community member can act as a proxy with an approval of a VP or President. Attends to inner-group affairs such as, but not limited to: Drama elimination Birthday announcements Notifying minors when they can/not attend Making sure when minors do attend they follow the necessary precautions Accepting assignments from VP2. Domestic Issues Moderator This individual holds the fourth highest power, not being able to vote and accepting assignments from the Moderators and VP (if applicable).
This individual holds the following powers and duties: Accept assignments from both VPs and Moderators. Deal with drama within the group. (This is essentially the purpose of this leadership’s position.)

Leadership Terms and Power Switching: Each leadership will have term limits. Please list how long the term limits will be for each position and the process to switch the positions. Use a bullet list to represent each separate idea. Each leadership position has a three term limit. After an individual has reached his/her limit he/she has two choices. Drop any leadership responsibilities and become a part of the normal community. Go after another leadership position by opening a community vote. If the person is voted in another leadership position with an 80% majority, he/she will assume that responsibility. (The President does not have this option) Each term is four months. A person may again go after a leadership position after three cycles (new people). After each term the following will occur: A community meeting will be held, and individuals who wish to have their hand at a leadership role will present why they should assume that role. After this, people with objections will speak up. After this, there will be a vote where simple majority is victor. Voting will be a private matter. A person will write his/her vote on a piece of paper, and put it in a box. The box will be then shaken up and the votes will be tallied. If the existing leader obtains a majority, he/she will assume the responsibilities and powers for another term. Only people in attendance of the voting meeting may vote.

Leadership Conflict of Interest Rules: There will arise a time where elected leaders will have conflicts of interest. Please list the process on how, when these arise, the problem will be dealt with. Use a bullet list to represent each separate idea. If 40% of the community agrees that there is a conflict of interest, they may open up a voting forum and do the following: Present their case in front of the leadership committee and the community. Have votes cast (In the same way term voting occurs). If the leader is impeached, the roles of that person will be shifted up to the person of higher power until a voting meeting can occur. Due to couples being more inclined to agree on the same thing, no two people in a relationship may become leaders unless: The community votes and a high majority (70%) see no problem with it. The relationship happens after the leaders are voted in.

The Rights of the Community (Bill of Rights): Each community needs their rights. These can include the power to impeach current leadership, have a community voting on something leadership usually decides on their own, etc. Please list the rights of the community here, using bullet lists. Please provide sufficient detail of those rights. Community members may impeach leaders that they believe that are not the best for the group. Community members may show up at leadership-only voting forums and argue for/against what is being discussed. Community members have the freedom of speech, excluding: Items that will create drama. If an individual has a problem with another, he/she should go directly to that individual, with a moderator, and talk it out; not talk to anyone he/she sees. Community members are free to argue and debate with other members as long as: It does not occur during a meet. It does not occur on any of our website pages. It does not create tension that will ruin an individual’s fun at the meet. (In other words, if this argument will cause a person to refuse to show up at the meets, then do not argue to that degree.)

Amendments & Rules: Each governmental structure needs rules to adhere by; these rules will be applied to all members, including leadership. Please, with a bullet list, describe each rule. Please provide sufficient detail of those rights. There will be no debating and/or arguing the following on anything related to the meet: Politics Religion You can debate the rules of the group WITHIN the PROPER forum. This group is for individuals eighteen or older. If the leadership sees that an event is fit for a minor to attend, then the minor will need to wear a red wrist band and be accompanied by a guardian or parent. Minors under the age of sixteen are not permitted, no exceptions.

Other Items: If there are any other items that do not belong in any other field, please place them here. Again, please provide information within a bullet list. There will be an anti-drama forum once every two months. If you have a drama/tension with another individual, then bring them here and talk about it in the presence of moderators that will make sure the talking does not get to heated and/or hurtful. There shall be a leadership forum to talk about the progress of the group (leaders only) and the steps that should be taken to further it.

Signature: Austin Clift Date: April 14, 2011 Current Leadership Signatures On the chance that your structure proposal is chosen, each current leadership member will sign off on it, enacting its passage and starting the implementing phase.
Leadership 1 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________ Leadership 2 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________ Leadership 3 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________ Leadership 4 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________ Leadership 6 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________ Leadership 6 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________"
"Utah Valley Furries Governmental Structure Proposal

Proposal By: ______Thay/Risha________ Based On: ________________ Date Created: ______5/8/11_______ Date Submitted: ____5/9/11________

Purpose of the Structure: Each governmental structure holds a distinct purpose. Some may have a purpose of giving the power over to its’ citizens so they have complete control, others will give all of the power to the leadership. Please describe in the box below what you hope to achieve within the structure including, but not limited to: Where the power is held, goals of the structure, and the reasons for where the power is held and the goals.
The purpose of this government is to achieve organization and initiative within the group. Its roles will include, but not be limited to… -setting guidelines/rules/standards (including keeping everything safe and legal) -organizing activities -promoting camaraderie/ peace amongst the group members -make sure everyone has fun/feels supported/belonging
This government is not a controlling entity; it will give the group more organization and direct and allow the group to achiever bigger, better things. Basically, they make things happen.

Leadership Positions (Max of Six, Minimum of Two): Because the group is smaller, though this may change in time, there cannot be too many leadership positions nor can there be too few. Please list any positions that your structure will implement, along with their descriptions and roles and duties. Title: Description:
Leaders: =President: -Task delegation -Takes an a initiatory role -Figurehead -Facilitator -Big picture- should make sure everything else is running smoothly
=Vice President: -Helps/coordinates with the President to perform all of the same tasks

Council of representives: =Secretary: -take minutes at any meetings -keep copies of all documents, forms, etc. -Fundraising
=Activities coordinator: - gets in contact with the venues with which we wish to arrange meets. -finds out what people want/like to do
=Internal Relations: -take all internal complaints -peacemaker -brings interpersonal relation problems to the attention of other leader ship
All leadership and council members should help others if it is needed; no one should be left to fulfill their tasks on their own. The vice president or another leadership member may double as another role to create an odd number to make voting easier. For example, perhaps he vice president will take on the role on activities coordinator. However if this conflicts with their current duties, they must delegate the task to another.
Leadership Terms and Power Switching: Each leadership will have term limits. Please list how long the term limits will be for each position and the process to switch the positions. Use a bullet list to represent each separate idea.

Terms are four months in length. Term limits apply to full terms; if a member join the council half-way through a term, that term does not count towards their limit.
Leaders: -Term limit is three terms, whether consecutive or not. -determined by an election involving the whole group- either at a meet or an anonymous online poll.
Council: -Two consecutive terms at a time, two terms per post, but may serve up to four terms. (by having a different term limit, this prevents a total leadership turnover if everyone maxes out their term limits- obviously not always, but it will help.) -those who wish to participate on the council must submit a form or application of some sort, at which time the leadership will determine those who will fill the role. As these are positions made to aid the leaders in fulfilling all necessary tasks, the leaders will choose these partners. Leaders may elect to hold a poll anyway.
There may be an overlap as new leadership cycles in, in order to train in new leadership.

Leadership Conflict of Interest Rules: There will arise a time where elected leaders will have conflicts of interest. Please list the process on how, when these arise, the problem will be dealt with. Use a bullet list to represent each separate idea.

Leaders may elect to abstain from a vote should they feel as though their bias is too strong and may affect the group negatively. The council may elect to call in another member to take the absent voter’s place or to simply continue without another person.
If others notice the conflict of interest and the leader refuses to step down, the council may take a vote to omit this person from the decision-making process; the vote must carry majority to accomplish this. Tact and care should be used in order to prevent conflict within leadership.

The Rights of the Community (Bill of Rights): Each community needs their rights. These can include the power to impeach current leadership, have a community voting on something leadership usually decides on their own, etc. Please list the rights of the community here, using bullet lists. Please provide sufficient detail of those rights.

Communities wishing for change that cannot be achieved simply by requesting an audience with leadership may petition for such and those signing the petition must number at least twelve.
Rights of the community include: -impeachment of leadership on reasonable grounds, including but not limited to various sorts of misconduct and failure to fulfill their role -having a say in decisions; leadership should communicate to inform the community of any and all things, within reason (especially as this is a fairly quickly cycling gov’t, there really isn’t anything to hide anyway) -nominating and electing leaders and representatives.
Amendments & Rules: Each governmental structure needs rules to adhere by; these rules will be applied to all members, including leadership. Please, with a bullet list, describe each rule. Please provide sufficient detail of those rights.

-All decisions will be made in the best interest and safety of the group as a whole. -All state, local and facility rules and laws must be obeyed at all times. -Respect all members/ do not start fights, arguments, contention. Slander will not be tolerated. If there is a problem, it will be brought to the attention of internal relations and it will be dealt with appropriately -This group does not nor will have any religious or political affiliations -In extreme cases, members may be suspended from attending meets and participating in online discussion; grounds and consequences to be decided upon on a case-to-case basis -No minors will be permitted to attend meets --Specific events maybe organized in which minors may attend with parental permission --Under no circumstances will said minors be given a ride by another member; they must have a ride with a family member. --Absolutely no minors under 16 at all.
Other Items: If there are any other items that do not belong in any other field, please place them here. Again, please provide information within a bullet list.

Signature: _Risha Kapoor____ Date: _5/9/11_____ Current Leadership Signatures On the chance that the structure of the group will change, each current leadership member will sign off on it, enacting its passage and starting the implementing phase.
Leadership 1 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________ Leadership 2 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________ Leadership 3 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________ Leadership 4 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________ Leadership 5 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________ Leadership 6 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________"
Elias decided that since not enough proposal's were submitted, the group would delay in getting a government set up until He, Roochi and Scha could make an all new proposal, combining the one that had been submitted. The admins have repeatedly promised to get have it done by a certain date, but use the excuse, 'other, more important things had to be done first' but Admin Elias Saphir posted this in response to an inquiry by member Cassiopia Cougar about the status of the government: "It is being worked on. Our goal is to finish it before the next meet.[reffering to the July 13th 2011 Potluck meet)

== Membership ==
Everyone is welcome to join the Facebook group and attend the meets (see section minors). The group has many things for people to enjoy, and should be fun for anyone who chooses to attend.

Current Moderators ~ As of July 2011
*[[RooChi Lexico]]
*[[Elias Saphir]]
*[[Scha Darkart]]

Previous moderators:
*[[Kazul]]
*[[Frostee Fox]]

== Policy on Minors ==
As of right now, the minimum age to be on the Facebook group is thirteen and the minimum age to attend the group meets is sixteen; however, individuals under the age of eighteen MUST be accompanied by an adult to the meets which will stay with them through the entire meet. If the minor does not have a parent or legal guardian to accompany them at the meet, then they may not attend the meet. This policy is subject to change.

== Activities ==
The Utah Furries organizes different meets each month. They range from BBQs to performing in a parade. These meets aim more to just make idle conversation, but for other furries really get to know other furries and to better the community in general (both furry and not). The meets, with the exception of the very first meet at Denny's, have all been focused on Fursuiter, leaving everyone else to stand back and watch. For this reason, The admins require every suiter is assigned 2 and sometimes 3 handelers at every meet.

So far, the group has participated in the following activities: [[Strut your Mutt 2011]], [[SLC CureSearch Walk]]

== Conventions ==
Here is the list of conventions that will have a wide presence from the group.

*'''[[Rocky Mountain Fur Con]] 2011''':
**'''Notable Attendees''':
***'''[[RooChi Lexico]]''':
***'''[[Elias Saphir]]''':
***'''[[Evauk]]''':

*'''[[Rainfurrest]] 2011''':
**'''Notable Attendees''':
***'''[[Kazul]]''':
***'''[[Frostee Fox]]''':
***'''[[YuurYuu]]''':

== Media ==
So far the Utah Furries group doesn't have a notable media presence, though it is growing. However, current admin [[Elias Saphir]] has been putting together videos that give an overview of each meetups.

*'''[[Elias Saphir]] Videos''':
**'''February 12th Denny's Meet''': http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ryAEbG0CWGs
**'''March 12th BBQ Meet''': http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DwRuOPaRIsc
**'''April 9th Nickel City Meet''': http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=29KbC22R9Mk
**'''May 4th Trafalga Meet''': http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A9HAIcf472I
**'''Strut your Mutt Meet''': http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NjoMnHC3iyg

== Other Outlets==
*'''Links'''
**'''Twitter''': http://twitter.com/#!/UtahSt_Furries
**'''UStream''': http://www.ustream.tv/channel/utah-furries
**'''Email''': utah.furries@gmail.com
**'''Phone''': 1-801-200-FURS

[[Category:Regional groups]]
[[Category:Utah]]

File:Utah furries logo.jpg

2011-07-13T20:57:42Z

LeDutch: /* Summary */

== Summary ==
The logo of the Utah Furries Draw by former Admin, Kazul.

== Licensing ==
{{Cc-by-sa-3.0-and-GFDL}}

Utah Furries

2011-07-13T20:56:19Z

LeDutch: /* Structure */

[[File:utah_furries_logo.jpg|right]]
'''Utah Furries''' is the second largest furry meet up group in Utah centered in [[wikipedia:Orem,_Utah|Orem, Utah]]. The group's members range across the entire state to a few members appearing from states such as [[wikipedia:Idaho|Idaho]] and [[wikipedia:Wyoming|Wyoming]].

The group meets the second Saturday of every month participating in various activities such as: a BBQ, Nickel City, Trafalga, and performing in the Orem Summerfest Parade.

*'''Links''':
**'''Facebook Group''': http://www.facebook.com/groups/utah.furries?ap=1
**'''Twitter''': http://twitter.com/#!/UtahSt_Furries

== History ==
The Utah Furries group was started in 2008 two high school friend, Gryphon named Kazul, and a Sumatran White Tiger Named Cain. Both the Creators left the group for their own reasons when the group had not scene additional members for 5 months. In their absence, the group grew a little, but since both admins had left, Facebook automatically had this message on the group 'This group has no admins.' with a link anyone could click to become admin. new active member Elias Saphir stepped up and assumed the void Administrator position.

After a short time, Kazul and Cain decided to come back and continue their adminship. The group got larger, Cain left, and then Frostee Fox was introduced into the adminship. It was at this point, nearing one hundred members on the Facebook group, that some of the plans of the members and some of the admins decided that there should there should be an official group meetup. Thus, on February 12th 2011, the first Utah Furries group meet occurred a Denny's with an attendance of about twenty people. It was decided to continue on with the meets.

During the second meet, an adminship of Elias Saphir, Kazul, and Frostee Fox was created and RooChi Lexico and Scha Darkart were assigned as moderators. May 2011 Kazul and Frostee stepped down from leadership after, "we felt as though we were being forced out by those both in power, and those who wanted it", and RooChi and Scha were introduced as admins. Frostee later told Elias, "It was sad to leave leadership, but I did it to reduce the amount of drama that was beginning in the group, and because the group was inevitably going to become a defacto arm of the UFF"

The group goals have consisted of creating a furry presence in the general Utah community and fulfilling service opportunities within the community. The benefits of this have already been seen by being asked to entertain children at the SLC CureSearch Walk in July 2011, after one of the organizers of the event saw the Utah Furries marching in the 2011 Orem City Summerfest Parade in June of 2011.

== Structure ==
As of yet, an official group structure has not been established, and has actually been the source of a lot of drama in the group. Elias Saphir was the first one to suggest making a government, which he did at the second meeting the group ever had in march 12th, the potluck/BBQ in the park. At the Time the other Admins, Frostee Fox and Kazul, did not see a reason for a government but went along with it anyways.
back in April of 2011, the admins had a period of time that people could submit Governmental Structure Proposals. The Proposals had to include the following: the Purpose of the Structure, Leadership Positions, Leadership Terms and Power Switching, Leadership Conflict of Interest Rules, The Rights of the Community (Bill of Rights), and Amendments & Rules. Only 3 Proposals were submitted, two versions were submitted by admin Elias Saphir (one and then a sightly modified upgraded version) and one by member Thay Rustback. Here is Elias's 2nd version and Thay's Proposal:

"Utah Valley Furries Governmental Structure Proposal
Proposal By: Austin Clift Based On: N/A Date Created: April 14, 2011 Date Submitted: April 14, 2011

Purpose of the Structure: Each governmental structure holds a distinct purpose. Some may have a purpose of giving the power over to its’ citizens so they have complete control, others will give all of the power to the leadership. Please describe in the box below what you hope to achieve within the structure including, but not limited to: Where the power is held, goals of the structure, and the reasons for where the power is held and the goals. The purpose of this structure is to give sufficient power to the leadership positions, but still give a good amount of control to the community. The goals are as follows: Cut down on out of group and inner group drama with specialized positions. Have a personal that has the highest authority so, if the leadership cannot create a winning vote (a tie), that highest authority will be the final say on the issue. Of course only after both sides make their argument for what they believe should happen.

The reasons for having a split power between leadership and the community and the goals are as follows: If the community has no power it will up-rise (create drama) and undermine the specialized positions to rid drama. No drama is always good, no one can argue with that. If ties are continuous, the leadership will become useless and unable to make choices for the better of the group.

Leadership Positions (Max of Six, Minimum of Two): Because the group is smaller, though this may change in time, there cannot be too many leadership positions nor can there be too few. Please list any positions that your structure will implement, along with their descriptions and roles and duties. Title: Description: President This individual holds the highest power, having the final say on issues that may hold up the system; however, the power this individual holds is not much higher than the Vice Presidents.
This individual holds the following powers and duties: If there is any tie within the group he/she will have the final say after the two sides demonstrate their point. He/she will be a part of the voting committee of any issues and will assign the dates and times of voting events (No one can act as proxy for this individual). Assign tasks to any of the moderators and the Vice Presidents. If a VP is not doing his/her job, the President shall assume their responsibilities. If a VP is not doing his/her job, the President can open a community vote that can impeach a VP and Moderator. Vice President 1 This individual holds the second highest power, having the capability to vote in leadership-only voting committees.
This individual holds the following powers and duties: Vote and communicate his/her ideas during voting meets. He/she will be a part of the voting committee and is essential for its occurrence. If he/she cannot attend the meeting, he/she can find any of the three moderators to act as the Vice President in proxy (The Moderator must speak the Vice Presidents thoughts and feelings, even if the Moderator acting as proxy has differing thoughts and feelings.) A Moderator acting as a proxy cannot vote as a Moderator when there is a voting meeting that will include moderators. Assigns tasks to Moderator 1 and Domestic Issues Moderator. If Moderator 1 is not doing his/her job, the VP1 assumes the responsibility. Accept assignments from President. Vice President 2 This individual holds the second highest power, having the capability to vote in leadership-only voting committees.
This individual holds the following powers and duties: Vote and communicate his/her ideas during voting meets. He/she will be a part of the voting committee and is essential for its occurrence. If he/she cannot attend the meeting, he/she can find any of the three moderators to act as the Vice President in proxy (The Moderator must speak the Vice Presidents thoughts and feelings, even if the Moderator acting as proxy has differing thoughts and feelings.) A Moderator acting as a proxy cannot vote as a Moderator when there is a voting meeting that will include moderators. Assigns tasks to Moderator 2 and Domestic Issues Moderator. If Moderator 2 is not doing his/her job, the VP2 assumes the responsibility. Accepts assignments from President. Moderator 1 This individual holds the third highest power, having the capability to vote in some leadership-only voting committees.
This individual holds the following powers and duties: Vote and communicate his/her ideas during voting meets. Voting attendance while not necessary is important and he/she should attend to each meeting where applicable; however, a community member can act as a proxy with an approval of a VP or President. Attends to out-of group affairs, such as visiting local business to see if they would be okay with fursuiting (tails, ears, full suits, half suits, etc.) Please note: this individual MUST visit the business and show them the portfolio of pictures of past events. Accepting assignments from VP1. Moderator 2 This individual holds the third highest power, having the capability to vote in some leadership-only voting committees.
This individual holds the following powers and duties: Vote and communicate his/her ideas during voting meets. Voting attendance while not necessary is important and he/she should attend to each meeting where applicable; however, a community member can act as a proxy with an approval of a VP or President. Attends to inner-group affairs such as, but not limited to: Drama elimination Birthday announcements Notifying minors when they can/not attend Making sure when minors do attend they follow the necessary precautions Accepting assignments from VP2. Domestic Issues Moderator This individual holds the fourth highest power, not being able to vote and accepting assignments from the Moderators and VP (if applicable).
This individual holds the following powers and duties: Accept assignments from both VPs and Moderators. Deal with drama within the group. (This is essentially the purpose of this leadership’s position.)

Leadership Terms and Power Switching: Each leadership will have term limits. Please list how long the term limits will be for each position and the process to switch the positions. Use a bullet list to represent each separate idea. Each leadership position has a three term limit. After an individual has reached his/her limit he/she has two choices. Drop any leadership responsibilities and become a part of the normal community. Go after another leadership position by opening a community vote. If the person is voted in another leadership position with an 80% majority, he/she will assume that responsibility. (The President does not have this option) Each term is four months. A person may again go after a leadership position after three cycles (new people). After each term the following will occur: A community meeting will be held, and individuals who wish to have their hand at a leadership role will present why they should assume that role. After this, people with objections will speak up. After this, there will be a vote where simple majority is victor. Voting will be a private matter. A person will write his/her vote on a piece of paper, and put it in a box. The box will be then shaken up and the votes will be tallied. If the existing leader obtains a majority, he/she will assume the responsibilities and powers for another term. Only people in attendance of the voting meeting may vote.

Leadership Conflict of Interest Rules: There will arise a time where elected leaders will have conflicts of interest. Please list the process on how, when these arise, the problem will be dealt with. Use a bullet list to represent each separate idea. If 40% of the community agrees that there is a conflict of interest, they may open up a voting forum and do the following: Present their case in front of the leadership committee and the community. Have votes cast (In the same way term voting occurs). If the leader is impeached, the roles of that person will be shifted up to the person of higher power until a voting meeting can occur. Due to couples being more inclined to agree on the same thing, no two people in a relationship may become leaders unless: The community votes and a high majority (70%) see no problem with it. The relationship happens after the leaders are voted in.

The Rights of the Community (Bill of Rights): Each community needs their rights. These can include the power to impeach current leadership, have a community voting on something leadership usually decides on their own, etc. Please list the rights of the community here, using bullet lists. Please provide sufficient detail of those rights. Community members may impeach leaders that they believe that are not the best for the group. Community members may show up at leadership-only voting forums and argue for/against what is being discussed. Community members have the freedom of speech, excluding: Items that will create drama. If an individual has a problem with another, he/she should go directly to that individual, with a moderator, and talk it out; not talk to anyone he/she sees. Community members are free to argue and debate with other members as long as: It does not occur during a meet. It does not occur on any of our website pages. It does not create tension that will ruin an individual’s fun at the meet. (In other words, if this argument will cause a person to refuse to show up at the meets, then do not argue to that degree.)

Amendments & Rules: Each governmental structure needs rules to adhere by; these rules will be applied to all members, including leadership. Please, with a bullet list, describe each rule. Please provide sufficient detail of those rights. There will be no debating and/or arguing the following on anything related to the meet: Politics Religion You can debate the rules of the group WITHIN the PROPER forum. This group is for individuals eighteen or older. If the leadership sees that an event is fit for a minor to attend, then the minor will need to wear a red wrist band and be accompanied by a guardian or parent. Minors under the age of sixteen are not permitted, no exceptions.

Other Items: If there are any other items that do not belong in any other field, please place them here. Again, please provide information within a bullet list. There will be an anti-drama forum once every two months. If you have a drama/tension with another individual, then bring them here and talk about it in the presence of moderators that will make sure the talking does not get to heated and/or hurtful. There shall be a leadership forum to talk about the progress of the group (leaders only) and the steps that should be taken to further it.

Signature: Austin Clift Date: April 14, 2011 Current Leadership Signatures On the chance that your structure proposal is chosen, each current leadership member will sign off on it, enacting its passage and starting the implementing phase.
Leadership 1 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________ Leadership 2 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________ Leadership 3 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________ Leadership 4 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________ Leadership 6 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________ Leadership 6 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________"
"Utah Valley Furries Governmental Structure Proposal

Proposal By: ______Thay/Risha________ Based On: ________________ Date Created: ______5/8/11_______ Date Submitted: ____5/9/11________

Purpose of the Structure: Each governmental structure holds a distinct purpose. Some may have a purpose of giving the power over to its’ citizens so they have complete control, others will give all of the power to the leadership. Please describe in the box below what you hope to achieve within the structure including, but not limited to: Where the power is held, goals of the structure, and the reasons for where the power is held and the goals.
The purpose of this government is to achieve organization and initiative within the group. Its roles will include, but not be limited to… -setting guidelines/rules/standards (including keeping everything safe and legal) -organizing activities -promoting camaraderie/ peace amongst the group members -make sure everyone has fun/feels supported/belonging
This government is not a controlling entity; it will give the group more organization and direct and allow the group to achiever bigger, better things. Basically, they make things happen.

Leadership Positions (Max of Six, Minimum of Two): Because the group is smaller, though this may change in time, there cannot be too many leadership positions nor can there be too few. Please list any positions that your structure will implement, along with their descriptions and roles and duties. Title: Description:
Leaders: =President: -Task delegation -Takes an a initiatory role -Figurehead -Facilitator -Big picture- should make sure everything else is running smoothly
=Vice President: -Helps/coordinates with the President to perform all of the same tasks

Council of representives: =Secretary: -take minutes at any meetings -keep copies of all documents, forms, etc. -Fundraising
=Activities coordinator: - gets in contact with the venues with which we wish to arrange meets. -finds out what people want/like to do
=Internal Relations: -take all internal complaints -peacemaker -brings interpersonal relation problems to the attention of other leader ship
All leadership and council members should help others if it is needed; no one should be left to fulfill their tasks on their own. The vice president or another leadership member may double as another role to create an odd number to make voting easier. For example, perhaps he vice president will take on the role on activities coordinator. However if this conflicts with their current duties, they must delegate the task to another.
Leadership Terms and Power Switching: Each leadership will have term limits. Please list how long the term limits will be for each position and the process to switch the positions. Use a bullet list to represent each separate idea.

Terms are four months in length. Term limits apply to full terms; if a member join the council half-way through a term, that term does not count towards their limit.
Leaders: -Term limit is three terms, whether consecutive or not. -determined by an election involving the whole group- either at a meet or an anonymous online poll.
Council: -Two consecutive terms at a time, two terms per post, but may serve up to four terms. (by having a different term limit, this prevents a total leadership turnover if everyone maxes out their term limits- obviously not always, but it will help.) -those who wish to participate on the council must submit a form or application of some sort, at which time the leadership will determine those who will fill the role. As these are positions made to aid the leaders in fulfilling all necessary tasks, the leaders will choose these partners. Leaders may elect to hold a poll anyway.
There may be an overlap as new leadership cycles in, in order to train in new leadership.

Leadership Conflict of Interest Rules: There will arise a time where elected leaders will have conflicts of interest. Please list the process on how, when these arise, the problem will be dealt with. Use a bullet list to represent each separate idea.

Leaders may elect to abstain from a vote should they feel as though their bias is too strong and may affect the group negatively. The council may elect to call in another member to take the absent voter’s place or to simply continue without another person.
If others notice the conflict of interest and the leader refuses to step down, the council may take a vote to omit this person from the decision-making process; the vote must carry majority to accomplish this. Tact and care should be used in order to prevent conflict within leadership.

The Rights of the Community (Bill of Rights): Each community needs their rights. These can include the power to impeach current leadership, have a community voting on something leadership usually decides on their own, etc. Please list the rights of the community here, using bullet lists. Please provide sufficient detail of those rights.

Communities wishing for change that cannot be achieved simply by requesting an audience with leadership may petition for such and those signing the petition must number at least twelve.
Rights of the community include: -impeachment of leadership on reasonable grounds, including but not limited to various sorts of misconduct and failure to fulfill their role -having a say in decisions; leadership should communicate to inform the community of any and all things, within reason (especially as this is a fairly quickly cycling gov’t, there really isn’t anything to hide anyway) -nominating and electing leaders and representatives.
Amendments & Rules: Each governmental structure needs rules to adhere by; these rules will be applied to all members, including leadership. Please, with a bullet list, describe each rule. Please provide sufficient detail of those rights.

-All decisions will be made in the best interest and safety of the group as a whole. -All state, local and facility rules and laws must be obeyed at all times. -Respect all members/ do not start fights, arguments, contention. Slander will not be tolerated. If there is a problem, it will be brought to the attention of internal relations and it will be dealt with appropriately -This group does not nor will have any religious or political affiliations -In extreme cases, members may be suspended from attending meets and participating in online discussion; grounds and consequences to be decided upon on a case-to-case basis -No minors will be permitted to attend meets --Specific events maybe organized in which minors may attend with parental permission --Under no circumstances will said minors be given a ride by another member; they must have a ride with a family member. --Absolutely no minors under 16 at all.
Other Items: If there are any other items that do not belong in any other field, please place them here. Again, please provide information within a bullet list.

Signature: _Risha Kapoor____ Date: _5/9/11_____ Current Leadership Signatures On the chance that the structure of the group will change, each current leadership member will sign off on it, enacting its passage and starting the implementing phase.
Leadership 1 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________ Leadership 2 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________ Leadership 3 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________ Leadership 4 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________ Leadership 5 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________ Leadership 6 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________"
Elias decided that since not enough proposal's were submitted, the group would delay in getting a government set up until He, Roochi and Scha could make an all new proposal, combining the one that had been submitted. The admins have repeatedly promised to get have it done by a certain date, but use the excuse, 'other, more important things had to be done first' but Admin Elias Saphir posted this in response to an inquiry by member Cassiopia Cougar about the status of the government: "It is being worked on. Our goal is to finish it before the next meet.[reffering to the July 13th 2011 Potluck meet)

== Membership ==
Everyone is welcome to join the Facebook group and attend the meets (see section minors). The group has many things for people to enjoy, and should be fun for anyone who chooses to attend.

Current Moderators ~ As of July 2011
*[[RooChi Lexico]]
*[[Elias Saphir]]
*[[Scha Darkart]]

Previous moderators:
*[[Kazul]]
*[[Frostee Fox]]

== Policy on Minors ==
As of right now, the minimum age to be on the Facebook group is thirteen and the minimum age to attend the group meets is sixteen; however, individuals under the age of eighteen MUST be accompanied by an adult to the meets which will stay with them through the entire meet. If the minor does not have a parent or legal guardian to accompany them at the meet, then they may not attend the meet. This policy is subject to change.

== Activities ==
The Utah Furries organizes different meets each month. They range from BBQs to performing in a parade. These meets aim more to just make idle conversation, but for other furries really get to know other furries and to better the community in general (both furry and not). The meets, with the exception of the very first meet at Denny's, have all been focused on Fursuiter, leaving everyone else to stand back and watch. For this reason, The admins require every suiter is assigned 2 and sometimes 3 handelers at every meet.

So far, the group has participated in the following activities: [[Strut your Mutt 2011]], [[SLC CureSearch Walk]]

== Conventions ==
Here is the list of conventions that will have a wide presence from the group.

*'''[[Rocky Mountain Fur Con]] 2011''':
**'''Notable Attendees''':
***'''[[RooChi Lexico]]''':
***'''[[Elias Saphir]]''':
***'''[[Evauk]]''':

*'''[[Rainfurrest]] 2011''':
**'''Notable Attendees''':
***'''[[Kazul]]''':
***'''[[Frostee Fox]]''':
***'''[[YuurYuu]]''':

== Media ==
So far the Utah Furries group doesn't have a notable media presence, though it is growing. However, current admin [[Elias Saphir]] has been putting together videos that give an overview of each meetups.

*'''[[Elias Saphir]] Videos''':
**'''February 12th Denny's Meet''': http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ryAEbG0CWGs
**'''March 12th BBQ Meet''': http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DwRuOPaRIsc
**'''April 9th Nickel City Meet''': http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=29KbC22R9Mk
**'''May 4th Trafalga Meet''': http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A9HAIcf472I
**'''Strut your Mutt Meet''': http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NjoMnHC3iyg

== Other Outlets==
*'''Links'''
**'''Twitter''': http://twitter.com/#!/UtahSt_Furries
**'''UStream''': http://www.ustream.tv/channel/utah-furries
**'''Email''': utah.furries@gmail.com
**'''Phone''': 1-801-200-FURS

[[Category:Regional groups]]
[[Category:Utah]]

Utah Furries

2011-07-13T20:55:11Z

LeDutch: /* History */

Utah Furries

2011-07-13T20:40:22Z

LeDutch: /* Structure */

[[File:utah_furries_logo.jpg|right]]
'''Utah Furries''' is the second largest furry meet up group in Utah centered in [[wikipedia:Orem,_Utah|Orem, Utah]]. The group's members range across the entire state to a few members appearing from states such as [[wikipedia:Idaho|Idaho]] and [[wikipedia:Wyoming|Wyoming]].

The group meets the second Saturday of every month participating in various activities such as: a BBQ, Nickel City, Trafalga, and performing in the Orem Summerfest Parade.

*'''Links''':
**'''Facebook Group''': http://www.facebook.com/groups/utah.furries?ap=1
**'''Twitter''': http://twitter.com/#!/UtahSt_Furries

== History ==
The Utah Furries group was started in 2008 gryphon named Kazul, but later left the group whilst it was still young after learning the 'darker' side of the fandom, but that would not keep her away from the fandom, and she would later return. The group was then founded again by one of the current admins, Elias Saphir, and was revamped to be active again.

After a short time, Kazul and the other creator of the group Cain decided to come back and continue their adminship. The group got larger, Cain left, and then Frostee Fox was introduced into the adminship. It was at this point, nearing one hundred members on the Facebook group, that some of the plans of the members and some of the admins decided that there should there should be an official group meetup. Thus, on February 12th 2011, the first Utah Furries group meet occurred with an attendance of about twenty people. It was decided to continue on with the meets.

During the second meet, an adminship of Elias Saphir, Kazul, and Frostee Fox was created and RooChi Lexico and Scha Darkart were assigned as moderators. May 2011 Kazul and Frostee stepped down from leadership after, "we felt as though we were being forced out by those both in power, and those who wanted it", and RooChi and Scha were introduced as admins. Frostee later told me, "It was sad to leave leadership, but I did it to reduce the amount of drama that was beginning in the group, and because the group was inevitably going to become a defacto arm of the UFF"

The group goals have consisted of creating a furry presence in the general Utah community and fulfilling service opportunities within the community. The benefits of this have already been seen by being asked to entertain children at the SLC CureSearch Walk in July 2011, after one of the organizers of the event saw the Utah Furries marching in the 2011 Orem City Summerfest Parade in June of 2011.

== Structure ==
As of yet, an official group structure has not been established, and has actually been the source of a lot of drama in the group. Elias Saphir was the first one to suggest making a government, which he did at the second meeting the group ever had in march 12th, the potluck/BBQ in the park. At the Time the other Admins, Frostee Fox and Kazul, did not see a reason for a government but went along with it anyways.

back in April of 2011, the admins had a period of time that people could submit Governmental Structure Proposals. The Proposals had to include the following: the Purpose of the Structure, Leadership Positions, Leadership Terms and Power Switching, Leadership Conflict of Interest Rules, The Rights of the Community (Bill of Rights), and Amendments & Rules. Only 3 Proposals were submitted, two versions were submitted by admin Elias Saphir (one and then a sightly modified upgraded version) and one by member Thay Rustback. Here is Elias's 2nd version and Thay's Proposal:

"Utah Valley Furries
Governmental Structure Proposal

Proposal By: Austin Clift
Based On: N/A
Date Created: April 14, 2011
Date Submitted: April 14, 2011

Purpose of the Structure:
Each governmental structure holds a distinct purpose. Some may have a purpose of giving the power over to its’ citizens so they have complete control, others will give all of the power to the leadership. Please describe in the box below what you hope to achieve within the structure including, but not limited to: Where the power is held, goals of the structure, and the reasons for where the power is held and the goals.
The purpose of this structure is to give sufficient power to the leadership positions, but still give a good amount of control to the community. The goals are as follows:
Cut down on out of group and inner group drama with specialized positions.
Have a personal that has the highest authority so, if the leadership cannot create a winning vote (a tie), that highest authority will be the final say on the issue. Of course only after both sides make their argument for what they believe should happen.

The reasons for having a split power between leadership and the community and the goals are as follows:
If the community has no power it will up-rise (create drama) and undermine the specialized positions to rid drama.
No drama is always good, no one can argue with that.
If ties are continuous, the leadership will become useless and unable to make choices for the better of the group.

Leadership Positions (Max of Six, Minimum of Two):
Because the group is smaller, though this may change in time, there cannot be too many leadership positions nor can there be too few. Please list any positions that your structure will implement, along with their descriptions and roles and duties.
Title: Description:
President This individual holds the highest power, having the final say on issues that may hold up the system; however, the power this individual holds is not much higher than the Vice Presidents.

This individual holds the following powers and duties:
If there is any tie within the group he/she will have the final say after the two sides demonstrate their point.
He/she will be a part of the voting committee of any issues and will assign the dates and times of voting events (No one can act as proxy for this individual).
Assign tasks to any of the moderators and the Vice Presidents.
If a VP is not doing his/her job, the President shall assume their responsibilities.
If a VP is not doing his/her job, the President can open a community vote that can impeach a VP and Moderator.
Vice President 1 This individual holds the second highest power, having the capability to vote in leadership-only voting committees.

This individual holds the following powers and duties:
Vote and communicate his/her ideas during voting meets.
He/she will be a part of the voting committee and is essential for its occurrence. If he/she cannot attend the meeting, he/she can find any of the three moderators to act as the Vice President in proxy (The Moderator must speak the Vice Presidents thoughts and feelings, even if the Moderator acting as proxy has differing thoughts and feelings.) A Moderator acting as a proxy cannot vote as a Moderator when there is a voting meeting that will include moderators.
Assigns tasks to Moderator 1 and Domestic Issues Moderator.
If Moderator 1 is not doing his/her job, the VP1 assumes the responsibility.
Accept assignments from President.
Vice President 2 This individual holds the second highest power, having the capability to vote in leadership-only voting committees.

This individual holds the following powers and duties:
Vote and communicate his/her ideas during voting meets.
He/she will be a part of the voting committee and is essential for its occurrence. If he/she cannot attend the meeting, he/she can find any of the three moderators to act as the Vice President in proxy (The Moderator must speak the Vice Presidents thoughts and feelings, even if the Moderator acting as proxy has differing thoughts and feelings.) A Moderator acting as a proxy cannot vote as a Moderator when there is a voting meeting that will include moderators.
Assigns tasks to Moderator 2 and Domestic Issues Moderator.
If Moderator 2 is not doing his/her job, the VP2 assumes the responsibility.
Accepts assignments from President.
Moderator 1 This individual holds the third highest power, having the capability to vote in some leadership-only voting committees.

This individual holds the following powers and duties:
Vote and communicate his/her ideas during voting meets.
Voting attendance while not necessary is important and he/she should attend to each meeting where applicable; however, a community member can act as a proxy with an approval of a VP or President.
Attends to out-of group affairs, such as visiting local business to see if they would be okay with fursuiting (tails, ears, full suits, half suits, etc.) Please note: this individual MUST visit the business and show them the portfolio of pictures of past events.
Accepting assignments from VP1.
Moderator 2 This individual holds the third highest power, having the capability to vote in some leadership-only voting committees.

This individual holds the following powers and duties:
Vote and communicate his/her ideas during voting meets.
Voting attendance while not necessary is important and he/she should attend to each meeting where applicable; however, a community member can act as a proxy with an approval of a VP or President.
Attends to inner-group affairs such as, but not limited to:
Drama elimination
Birthday announcements
Notifying minors when they can/not attend
Making sure when minors do attend they follow the necessary precautions
Accepting assignments from VP2.
Domestic Issues Moderator This individual holds the fourth highest power, not being able to vote and accepting assignments from the Moderators and VP (if applicable).

This individual holds the following powers and duties:
Accept assignments from both VPs and Moderators.
Deal with drama within the group. (This is essentially the purpose of this leadership’s position.)

Leadership Terms and Power Switching:
Each leadership will have term limits. Please list how long the term limits will be for each position and the process to switch the positions. Use a bullet list to represent each separate idea.
Each leadership position has a three term limit.
After an individual has reached his/her limit he/she has two choices.
Drop any leadership responsibilities and become a part of the normal community.
Go after another leadership position by opening a community vote. If the person is voted in another leadership position with an 80% majority, he/she will assume that responsibility. (The President does not have this option)
Each term is four months.
A person may again go after a leadership position after three cycles (new people).
After each term the following will occur:
A community meeting will be held, and individuals who wish to have their hand at a leadership role will present why they should assume that role.
After this, people with objections will speak up.
After this, there will be a vote where simple majority is victor.
Voting will be a private matter. A person will write his/her vote on a piece of paper, and put it in a box. The box will be then shaken up and the votes will be tallied.
If the existing leader obtains a majority, he/she will assume the responsibilities and powers for another term.
Only people in attendance of the voting meeting may vote.

Leadership Conflict of Interest Rules:
There will arise a time where elected leaders will have conflicts of interest. Please list the process on how, when these arise, the problem will be dealt with. Use a bullet list to represent each separate idea.
If 40% of the community agrees that there is a conflict of interest, they may open up a voting forum and do the following:
Present their case in front of the leadership committee and the community.
Have votes cast (In the same way term voting occurs).
If the leader is impeached, the roles of that person will be shifted up to the person of higher power until a voting meeting can occur.
Due to couples being more inclined to agree on the same thing, no two people in a relationship may become leaders unless:
The community votes and a high majority (70%) see no problem with it.
The relationship happens after the leaders are voted in.

The Rights of the Community (Bill of Rights):
Each community needs their rights. These can include the power to impeach current leadership, have a community voting on something leadership usually decides on their own, etc. Please list the rights of the community here, using bullet lists. Please provide sufficient detail of those rights.
Community members may impeach leaders that they believe that are not the best for the group.
Community members may show up at leadership-only voting forums and argue for/against what is being discussed.
Community members have the freedom of speech, excluding:
Items that will create drama. If an individual has a problem with another, he/she should go directly to that individual, with a moderator, and talk it out; not talk to anyone he/she sees.
Community members are free to argue and debate with other members as long as:
It does not occur during a meet.
It does not occur on any of our website pages.
It does not create tension that will ruin an individual’s fun at the meet. (In other words, if this argument will cause a person to refuse to show up at the meets, then do not argue to that degree.)

Amendments & Rules:
Each governmental structure needs rules to adhere by; these rules will be applied to all members, including leadership. Please, with a bullet list, describe each rule. Please provide sufficient detail of those rights.
There will be no debating and/or arguing the following on anything related to the meet:
Politics
Religion
You can debate the rules of the group WITHIN the PROPER forum.
This group is for individuals eighteen or older. If the leadership sees that an event is fit for a minor to attend, then the minor will need to wear a red wrist band and be accompanied by a guardian or parent. Minors under the age of sixteen are not permitted, no exceptions.

Other Items:
If there are any other items that do not belong in any other field, please place them here. Again, please provide information within a bullet list.
There will be an anti-drama forum once every two months. If you have a drama/tension with another individual, then bring them here and talk about it in the presence of moderators that will make sure the talking does not get to heated and/or hurtful.
There shall be a leadership forum to talk about the progress of the group (leaders only) and the steps that should be taken to further it.

Signature: Austin Clift Date: April 14, 2011
Current Leadership Signatures
On the chance that your structure proposal is chosen, each current leadership member will sign off on it, enacting its passage and starting the implementing phase.

Leadership 1 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________
Leadership 2 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________
Leadership 3 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________
Leadership 4 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________
Leadership 6 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________
Leadership 6 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________"

"Utah Valley Furries
Governmental Structure Proposal

Proposal By: ______Thay/Risha________
Based On: ________________
Date Created: ______5/8/11_______
Date Submitted: ____5/9/11________

Purpose of the Structure:
Each governmental structure holds a distinct purpose. Some may have a purpose of giving the power over to its’ citizens so they have complete control, others will give all of the power to the leadership. Please describe in the box below what you hope to achieve within the structure including, but not limited to: Where the power is held, goals of the structure, and the reasons for where the power is held and the goals.

The purpose of this government is to achieve organization and initiative within the group. Its roles will include, but not be limited to…
-setting guidelines/rules/standards (including keeping everything safe and legal)
-organizing activities
-promoting camaraderie/ peace amongst the group members
-make sure everyone has fun/feels supported/belonging

This government is not a controlling entity; it will give the group more organization and direct and allow the group to achiever bigger, better things. Basically, they make things happen.

Leadership Positions (Max of Six, Minimum of Two):
Because the group is smaller, though this may change in time, there cannot be too many leadership positions nor can there be too few. Please list any positions that your structure will implement, along with their descriptions and roles and duties.
Title: Description:

Leaders:
=President:
-Task delegation
-Takes an a initiatory role
-Figurehead
-Facilitator
-Big picture- should make sure everything else is running smoothly

=Vice President:
-Helps/coordinates with the President to perform all of the same tasks

Council of representives:
=Secretary:
-take minutes at any meetings
-keep copies of all documents, forms, etc.
-Fundraising

=Activities coordinator:
- gets in contact with the venues with which we wish to arrange meets.
-finds out what people want/like to do

=Internal Relations:
-take all internal complaints
-peacemaker
-brings interpersonal relation problems to the attention of other leader ship

All leadership and council members should help others if it is needed; no one should be left to fulfill their tasks on their own. The vice president or another leadership member may double as another role to create an odd number to make voting easier. For example, perhaps he vice president will take on the role on activities coordinator. However if this conflicts with their current duties, they must delegate the task to another.

Leadership Terms and Power Switching:
Each leadership will have term limits. Please list how long the term limits will be for each position and the process to switch the positions. Use a bullet list to represent each separate idea.

Terms are four months in length. Term limits apply to full terms; if a member join the council half-way through a term, that term does not count towards their limit.

Leaders:
-Term limit is three terms, whether consecutive or not.
-determined by an election involving the whole group- either at a meet or an anonymous online poll.

Council:
-Two consecutive terms at a time, two terms per post, but may serve up to four terms. (by having a different term limit, this prevents a total leadership turnover if everyone maxes out their term limits- obviously not always, but it will help.)
-those who wish to participate on the council must submit a form or application of some sort, at which time the leadership will determine those who will fill the role. As these are positions made to aid the leaders in fulfilling all necessary tasks, the leaders will choose these partners. Leaders may elect to hold a poll anyway.

There may be an overlap as new leadership cycles in, in order to train in new leadership.

Leadership Conflict of Interest Rules:
There will arise a time where elected leaders will have conflicts of interest. Please list the process on how, when these arise, the problem will be dealt with. Use a bullet list to represent each separate idea.

Leaders may elect to abstain from a vote should they feel as though their bias is too strong and may affect the group negatively. The council may elect to call in another member to take the absent voter’s place or to simply continue without another person.

If others notice the conflict of interest and the leader refuses to step down, the council may take a vote to omit this person from the decision-making process; the vote must carry majority to accomplish this. Tact and care should be used in order to prevent conflict within leadership.

The Rights of the Community (Bill of Rights):
Each community needs their rights. These can include the power to impeach current leadership, have a community voting on something leadership usually decides on their own, etc. Please list the rights of the community here, using bullet lists. Please provide sufficient detail of those rights.

Communities wishing for change that cannot be achieved simply by requesting an audience with leadership may petition for such and those signing the petition must number at least twelve.

Rights of the community include:
-impeachment of leadership on reasonable grounds, including but not limited to various sorts of misconduct and failure to fulfill their role
-having a say in decisions; leadership should communicate to inform the community of any and all things, within reason (especially as this is a fairly quickly cycling gov’t, there really isn’t anything to hide anyway)
-nominating and electing leaders and representatives.

Amendments & Rules:
Each governmental structure needs rules to adhere by; these rules will be applied to all members, including leadership. Please, with a bullet list, describe each rule. Please provide sufficient detail of those rights.

-All decisions will be made in the best interest and safety of the group as a whole.
-All state, local and facility rules and laws must be obeyed at all times.
-Respect all members/ do not start fights, arguments, contention. Slander will not be tolerated. If there is a problem, it will be brought to the attention of internal relations and it will be dealt with appropriately
-This group does not nor will have any religious or political affiliations
-In extreme cases, members may be suspended from attending meets and participating in online discussion; grounds and consequences to be decided upon on a case-to-case basis
-No minors will be permitted to attend meets
--Specific events maybe organized in which minors may attend with parental permission
--Under no circumstances will said minors be given a ride by another member; they must have a ride with a family member.
--Absolutely no minors under 16 at all.

Other Items:
If there are any other items that do not belong in any other field, please place them here. Again, please provide information within a bullet list.

Signature: _Risha Kapoor____ Date: _5/9/11_____
Current Leadership Signatures
On the chance that the structure of the group will change, each current leadership member will sign off on it, enacting its passage and starting the implementing phase.

Leadership 1 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________
Leadership 2 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________
Leadership 3 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________
Leadership 4 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________
Leadership 5 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________
Leadership 6 Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________"

Elias decided that since not enough proposal's were submitted, the group would delay in getting a government set up until He, Roochi and Scha could make an all new proposal, combining the one that had been submitted. The admins have repeatedly promised to get have it done by a certain date, but use the excuse, 'other, more important things had to be done first' but Admin Elias Saphir posted this in response to an inquiry by member Cassiopia Cougar about the status of the government: "It is being worked on. Our goal is to finish it before the next meet.[reffering to the July 13th 2011 Potluck meet)

== Membership ==
Everyone is welcome to join the Facebook group and attend the meets (see section minors). The group has many things for people to enjoy, and should be fun for anyone who chooses to attend.

Current Moderators ~ As of July 2011
*[[RooChi Lexico]]
*[[Elias Saphir]]
*[[Scha Darkart]]

Previous moderators:
*[[Kazul]]
*[[Frostee Fox]]

== Policy on Minors ==
As of right now, the minimum age to be on the Facebook group is thirteen and the minimum age to attend the group meets is sixteen; however, individuals under the age of eighteen MUST be accompanied by an adult to the meets which will stay with them through the entire meet. If the minor does not have a parent or legal guardian to accompany them at the meet, then they may not attend the meet. This policy is subject to change.

== Activities ==
The Utah Furries organizes different meets each month. They range from BBQs to performing in a parade. These meets aim more to just make idle conversation, but for other furries really get to know other furries and to better the community in general (both furry and not). The meets, with the exception of the very first meet at Denny's, have all been focused on Fursuiter, leaving everyone else to stand back and watch. For this reason, The admins require every suiter is assigned 2 and sometimes 3 handelers at every meet.

So far, the group has participated in the following activities: [[Strut your Mutt 2011]], [[SLC CureSearch Walk]]

== Conventions ==
Here is the list of conventions that will have a wide presence from the group.

*'''[[Rocky Mountain Fur Con]] 2011''':
**'''Notable Attendees''':
***'''[[RooChi Lexico]]''':
***'''[[Elias Saphir]]''':
***'''[[Evauk]]''':

*'''[[Rainfurrest]] 2011''':
**'''Notable Attendees''':
***'''[[Kazul]]''':
***'''[[Frostee Fox]]''':
***'''[[YuurYuu]]''':

== Media ==
So far the Utah Furries group doesn't have a notable media presence, though it is growing. However, current admin [[Elias Saphir]] has been putting together videos that give an overview of each meetups.

*'''[[Elias Saphir]] Videos''':
**'''February 12th Denny's Meet''': http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ryAEbG0CWGs
**'''March 12th BBQ Meet''': http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DwRuOPaRIsc
**'''April 9th Nickel City Meet''': http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=29KbC22R9Mk
**'''May 4th Trafalga Meet''': http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A9HAIcf472I
**'''Strut your Mutt Meet''': http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NjoMnHC3iyg

== Other Outlets==
*'''Links'''
**'''Twitter''': http://twitter.com/#!/UtahSt_Furries
**'''UStream''': http://www.ustream.tv/channel/utah-furries
**'''Email''': utah.furries@gmail.com
**'''Phone''': 1-801-200-FURS

[[Category:Regional groups]]
[[Category:Utah]]