Blandford Forum Camera Club

Last evening Colin asked how many members regularly access the web site; he also mentioned contributions and comments by members.

I didn’t see how many hands were raised in response to the first question but I guess maybe half, or less, of the membership. I do, however, know the answer to the question of contributors and it’s about the same as the fingers I have on one hand, which is five. No, I lie, there are now 6, welcome aboard Peter. In comparison with most of the population who are very seriously into web related communication and very ready to put their personal lives on facebook etc. why are you so reluctant to take an interest in this means of sharing thoughts about your club and your hobby?

I suppose there are a few of the more ‘mature’ members who just can’t be bothered with this new fangled stuff and I’ll let you off. However we have an increasing number of members who look young to me although that may not be a reliable basis for judgement. At the danger of conflating the two issues, (regularly accessing the site and commenting) could it be that Malcolm and I (who produce most of the content) are considered too remote and part of the ‘establishment’ and therefore distant from the ‘normal’ membership? Surely not; I am firmly anti-establishment and Malcolm far too nice although quite prepared to speak his mind when the occasion demands.

My brother David made an interesting comment about the running of the club which he apparently sees (I think this is correct) as something a bit remote, conducted by others who apparently meet, discuss and make decisions and have little relationship to many of the members. Maybe a bit like a bus that we regularly use, get on and off but have no idea of the ultimate destination or the route.
If members were a little more aware of, and felt more involved in, the running of the club and if club business was reported on the web site, would more of you feel involved and take an interest?
Over the next week or so (now complete please call me if I have missed you) I will try and register every member on the site and provide the password necessary so you can comment, when this is done I will email you individually together with instructions. I may be wasting my time but please prove me wrong.

I conclude with an invitation to the Committee to report on your deliberations in respect of how ‘Points Cup’ numbers will be restrained (if this becomes necessary) and the quality of judge’s comment improved.

Discuss.
Keith